S2:E22 - Best of Season 2, Part 2 - Conversations that reminded us why Product is a "people-first" craft

In this second Best Of episode, we’re looking back at Episodes 11–20 — a surprisingly tender, energizing, and thought-provoking stretch of Season 2. These conversations took us into topics we didn’t expect at the start of the year: burnout as data, the role of play, the need for white space, the courage it takes to challenge old ways of working, and the deep connection between product management and human behavior.

We met some incredible new people this season — Charity, Sunny, Greg, Ryan, Steve, Ali, and more — and every one of them brought a perspective that stayed with us. What emerged across these episodes was a clear reminder that product management isn’t just about frameworks and outcomes. It’s about people. It’s about curiosity. And it’s about having the courage to question the familiar so we can build something better.

As we close out this half of the season, we’re grateful for the laughter, the honesty, and the wisdom — and for the chance to keep learning alongside all of you.

Key Takeaways

1. Burnout Is Data, Not Drama

When our energy fades or our creativity dips, it’s not personal failure — it’s our body giving us information. The earlier we learn to listen, the better product leaders we become.

2. People Build Software — Communication Is the Real Glue

Again and again, the conversations came back to one truth: communication breakdowns create most of the friction in product work. Trust, clarity, and shared understanding are the real multipliers.

3. Curiosity + Courage > Predictability + Roadmaps

There’s a courage gap in many organizations. Iterating, experimenting, and being willing to be wrong aren’t chaotic ways of working — they’re the heart of modern product leadership.

Questions for Product Managers

1. Where might your burnout, friction, or frustration actually be giving you data about what needs to change?

2. Where could a little more courage — asking a better question, challenging an assumption, or pushing for clarity — create a different outcome for your product or your team?