Avsnitt

  • Send us a text

    In this week’s episode of the Product Agility Podcast, Ben is joined by Jim Kalbach, an expert in design, innovation, and the Jobs to Be Done (JTBD) framework. Together, they tackle one of the biggest blind spots in product development—our over-reliance on user stories and how shifting our focus to customer jobs can unlock real value.

    This episode also marks the start of Season 3, and we’re excited to continue bringing you insightful conversations that bridge the gap between agility and product!

    Are We Asking the Wrong Questions?

    For years, product teams have structured their work around user stories, assuming that if we document needs well enough, success will follow. But what if user stories are only capturing symptoms, not the root of what customers truly need? In this episode, Ben and Jim explore:

    Why the traditional user story approach often fails to predict what customers really want.How Jobs to Be Done flips the script—shifting focus from product features to customer outcomes.The dangers of making product decisions based on assumptions rather than real human behavior.How to integrate JTBD thinking into your product discovery process.

    Practical Takeaways:

    Start with the job, not the product. Instead of asking what customers need from your product, ask: What are they trying to get done?Identify hidden competition. Your product isn’t just competing with direct alternatives—it’s competing with workarounds, habits, and even inaction.Test assumptions early. Don’t assume you know what customers want—validate their unmet needs through interviews and observation.Use job stories as a tool. A JTBD job story helps teams focus on the real-world progress customers seek, rather than getting lost in feature requests.

    🔥 What’s your take? Are user stories holding your team back? Have you tried Jobs to Be Done in your product work?

    Jim’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jkalbach/Jim's book, Jobs to Be Done: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Jobs-Be-Done-Playbook-Organization/dp/1933820683 Ben’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this week’s Product Agility Podcast, host Ben Maynard takes the mic solo once again, tackling an issue that has taken over the world of Agile and Product Management: our over-reliance on templates and canvases.

    From Vision Canvases to Lean Product Discovery Templates, we’ve been sold the dream that structured frameworks make our lives easier. But do they? Or are they actually making us lazy thinkers, stifling creativity, and holding us back from true innovation?

    The Trap of the One-Size-Fits-All Mindset


    Canvases and templates promise clarity, but they often lead teams to follow a formula rather than think critically. In this episode, Ben explores:

    Why templates feel safe—and how they can be a dangerous crutch.The illusion of progress—when filling out a template feels like work, but nothing meaningful gets decided.How standardised frameworks kill nuance—forcing unique products and teams into predefined boxes.When templates actually work—and how to adapt them to serve you, not control you.

    Practical Takeaways:

    Start with the problem, not the template. Before grabbing a canvas, ask: “What are we actually trying to solve?”Inspect and adapt. If a template doesn’t quite fit, tweak it—don’t let it dictate your thinking.Use templates as a conversation starter, not a final document. It’s the discussions and insights they generate that truly matter.Kill the dead templates. If a framework isn't adding value, stop using it. Not all tools deserve a permanent place in your workflow.


    🔥 What’s your take? Have templates helped or hindered your work? Do you have a canvas horror story or a surprising success? Tag Ben Maynard on LinkedIn and join the conversation!

    Ben's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/


    👉 Follow the podcast and stay updated on new episodes!

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Saknas det avsnitt?

    Klicka här för att uppdatera flödet manuellt.

  • Send us a text

    🔗 Master Lean Product Discovery – Sheev Workshops: https://sheev.co.uk/training/leanux/

    In this week’s Product Agility Podcast, host Ben Maynard takes the mic solo once again to tackle one of the biggest and most persistent failures in product and agile transformations: the misunderstanding of how learning drives adaptability.

    For years, agile practitioners and product leaders have been trapped by a delivery-first mindset. They race to meet deadlines without truly validating their ideas. The result? Teams deliver at speed but fail to learn fast, leading to wasted effort, frustrated stakeholders, and products that miss the mark.

    Ben dives into why learning speed > delivery speed and how misinterpreting key agile principles has slowed us down rather than accelerating success. He also unpacks the critical mistake that organisations continue to make: treating the business as just the Product Owner, rather than fostering true collaboration between developers, users, and real business stakeholders.

    Key Takeaways:

    The hidden cost of prioritising speed of delivery over speed of learningWhy the "business" in agile principles should mean more than just the Product OwnerHow teams can validate ideas before writing a single line of codeThe case for continuous user engagement—not just after launchA simple shift to break free from feature-factory thinking


    Practical Insights:

    Why your roadmap should be a learning plan, not just a list of featuresThe power of discovery sprints to de-risk product decisionsHow learning Kanban can revolutionise backlog refinementAgile Coaches & Scrum Masters—your real role isn't efficiency, it's learning

    🔎 Join the conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this week’s Product Agility Podcast, host Ben Maynard takes the mic solo to tackle one of the most controversial (and misunderstood) statements in product development: "Developers should NEVER talk to customers or users…"😲

    But wait—should they? Or is this just another myth holding product teams back?

    Ben dives into the real reasons why some organisations resist letting developers engage with customers, why this mindset stifles innovation, and how shifting towards an outcome-driven approach leads to better products, happier teams, and more business impact.

    With years of experience bridging the gap between Agile and Product, Ben shares practical strategies for empowering teams to focus on solving real problems rather than just shipping features.

    Key Takeaways:

    Why many teams are stuck in a feature factory—and how to break free.The power of direct customer conversations—and why every developer should be involved.Outcome vs. Output: How to stop wasting time and money building the wrong things.The Lean Product Canvas in action: A real-world example of saving tens of thousands by testing ideas early.Leadership mindset shifts: Moving from feature delivery to solving business problems.


    Practical Insights:

    How teams can validate their ideas BEFORE writing a single line of code.Why traditional backlog management is failing product teams—and what to do instead.The simple interviewing techniques that empower teams to make better decisions.Scrum Masters & Agile Coaches: How to bring customer learning into sprint reviews.


    Links & Resources:
    🔗 Learn more about the Lean Product Canvas → Sheev Workshops: https://sheev.co.uk/training/leanux/
    📚 Read ‘Who Does What by How Much’ by Jeff Gothelf → https://bit.ly/3EB16ze
    🔎 Join the conversation on LinkedIn → Ben Maynard’s Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    Ready to challenge the status quo? Listen now and let us know: Do developers in your team talk to customers? Why or why not? 👇

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this week’s Product Agility Podcast, we’re joined by Jeff Gothelf, author, speaker, and product discovery expert, to explore the evolution of Lean UX and why it’s no longer just about UX. Jeff shares how the Lean Product Canvas has shifted the way teams collaborate, align on business problems, and focus on outcomes over outputs.

    With decades of experience in UX, product management, and agile coaching, Jeff reveals why so many teams get stuck in feature factories and how a problem-solving mindset can unlock better products, stronger teams, and more customer impact.

    Key Takeaways:

    Why Lean UX is "dead"—and what’s replacing it.The Lean Product Canvas—A practical framework for product discovery and decision-making.Outcomes over outputs—How to move beyond feature delivery and focus on real business impact.Product vs. Agile Mindset—Why agile teams need stronger product thinking.The risk of blindly building AI products—How to avoid the latest hype cycle trap.


    Practical Insights:

    From UX to cross-functional collaboration: Why this shift matters for teams.How Scrum Masters and Agile Coaches can apply Lean Product principles.Avoiding waste: How teams can save millions by validating ideas early.Using OKRs effectively: How Lean Product discovery naturally aligns with outcome-driven goals.


    Quotable Moment:
    "You don’t succeed just by delivering features—you succeed when customer behaviour changes."

    Links & Resources:
    📖 Read Jeff’s latest book: "Who Does What by How Much" - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Who-Does-What-Much-Customer-Centric-ebook/dp/B0CYDH8R71
    📚 Explore the Lean Product Canvas: https://jeffgothelf.com/blog/the-lean-product-canvas/
    🌐 Learn more about Jeff’s work: https://www.senseandrespond.co/

    Are you still focused on feature delivery? Tune in now and let us know how your team defines success! 🚀

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this week’s Product Agility Podcast, we explore the true foundations of high-performing teams with Lucy Widdowson and Paul Barbour, executive team coaches, authors, and lead tutors at Henley Business School. With decades of experience coaching leadership teams, Lucy and Paul share their insights on what separates functional teams from truly exceptional ones—and how organisations can foster collaboration that drives real results.

    Key Takeaways:

    What makes a ‘real’ team? Why many groups never reach their full potential.The 7 Key Traits of High-Performing Teams—and how to cultivate them.Breaking silos: The critical role of inter-team collaboration.Psychological courage over safety: Why real progress requires brave conversations.From scepticism to buy-in: How to engage teams resistant to change.

    Practical Insights:

    Team Coaching vs. Facilitation: Understanding the difference and when to use each.Shifting ownership to the team so performance improvements last.Leading global teams effectively: Overcoming the challenges of remote collaboration.Cross-team interventions: How getting teams in the same room accelerates progress.

    Quotable Moment:

    "You don’t create high-performing teams—you create the conditions for them to emerge."

    Links & Resources:

    📖 Read Lucy & Paul’s book: "Building Top-Performing Teams"
    👉 Amazon Link

    🌐 Learn more about Lucy & Paul’s work at Performance Edge
    👉 Performance-Edge.co.uk

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this week’s Product Agility Podcast, we explore the power of effective design with Ashley Nicodemus, a seasoned product designer and Senior Director of Design at UE Group. Ashley shares her deep expertise in mission-critical design and explains why beauty is great—but effectiveness is what truly drives impact.

    Key Takeaways:

    Design Beyond Beauty: Why effective design often means making products invisible in mission-critical environments.Focus on Performance: Minimising cognitive load and maximising human performance in high-stakes situations.Adoption Over Change: Learn how aligning with users' natural behaviours can unlock higher adoption rates.Strategic Insights: Why prioritising workflows over aesthetics can make or break your product's success.


    Practical Insights:

    Mission-Critical Principles: Discover the surprising rules of designing for environments like aerospace and medical industries.The Power of Minimalism: How “less is more” creates better outcomes in high-stakes environments.Behaviour-First Design: Build around users’ existing workflows rather than forcing new habits.


    Quotable Moments:

    “Delight comes not from flashy features but from helping users get their job done seamlessly.”“A great product feels like an extension of its user—effortless and intuitive.”Links and Resources:Explore Ashley’s work at UE Group: https://www.uegroup.com/Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-nicodemus-23632867/


    💬 Ready to rethink your approach to design? Tune in now and tell us: How does your product balance beauty with effectiveness?

    Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube. Don’t miss this episode—your users will thank you!

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this week’s Product Agility Podcast, we explore the critical link between strategy and OKRs with Sebastien Prioris, a seasoned product leader and founder of Stratify. Seb shares why so many organisations struggle to make OKRs work—and how a clear, actionable strategy can change everything.

    Key Takeaways:

    OKRs Alone Aren’t Enough: Why they fail without a strong strategy behind them.The Missing Link: How to connect your vision, objectives, and execution seamlessly.Empowering Teams: Align OKRs with outcome-driven goals to foster success.Strategic Debt: The hidden cost of ignoring foundational strategic work.

    Practical Insights:

    Crafting Strategy: Treat strategy as an optimisation problem for better results.Breaking Silos: Use strategy to align teams and drive cross-functional collaboration.Outcome-Focused Leadership: Embed strategic thinking at every level of your organisation.

    Quotable Moments:

    “OKRs aren’t dead, but they’re meaningless without the strategy to back them up.”“A great strategy connects vision to execution and empowers teams to thrive.”

    Links and Resources:

    Explore Stratify: https://stratify.me/Connect with Seb Prioris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebprioris/

    💬 Ready to rethink your approach to OKRs and strategy? Tune in now and share your thoughts: Is your organization focused on the right thing?

    Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube. Don’t miss this episode—it could transform how you think about strategy and OKRs!

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this first episode of 2025, the Product Agility Podcast is back with a bang! Ben Maynard welcomes Ivett Ördög, a seasoned engineer, product leader, and creator of the innovative Lean Poker workshop, to explore the transformative power of feedback in building products that people truly love. With over three decades of coding experience and a unique blend of leadership roles, Ivett brings practical insights and strategies to inspire both engineers and product managers to move faster, learn smarter, and collaborate better.

    If you’ve ever struggled with aligning your team’s efforts with customer needs or felt stuck in the endless cycle of development without clear outcomes, this episode is a treasure trove of actionable ideas.

    Key Takeaways:

    From Feedback to Impact: How early and frequent feedback can shape better product decisions.Building Trust with Users: The importance of creating a feedback loop that empowers both teams and customers.Adoption as a Metric: Why feature adoption rates are the ultimate indicator of product success.Gamifying Learning: How Lean Poker accelerates team learning through rapid experimentation and iteration.

    Practical Tools & Methods:

    Feedback Loops: Building trust by acting quickly on user feedback.Lean Poker Workshop: An immersive, gamified workshop for mastering incremental delivery and experimentation.Metrics that Matter: Identifying and tracking adoption rates to maximize value.

    Links and Resources:

    Join a Lean Poker Workshop: https://www.leanpoker.org/eventConnect with Ivett Ördög on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivett-%C3%B6rd%C3%B6g-03aa9035/Subscribe to Ivett’s YouTube Channel, Next Increment: https://www.youtube.com/@NextIncrement

    Start the new year with a fresh perspective on feedback and delivery! Whether you’re a product manager, engineer, or leader, this episode provides actionable insights to help you create products that truly resonate with users. The Product Agility Podcast is back, and it’s better than ever! Don’t miss it!

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this special Christmas episode of the Product Agility Podcast, host Ben Maynard reflects on the past year and shares a message of gratitude and optimism.

    From challenges to triumphs, this year has been one of growth, connection, and inspiring conversations with amazing guests from across the agile and product communities. Ben also shares his hopes for the future, some candid behind-the-scenes insights, and his Christmas wish for more feedback and interaction from listeners like you.

    If you’ve ever wondered what drives the Product Agility Podcast, this warm and engaging message is the perfect way to close out the year and gear up for the exciting plans ahead.

    Key Takeaways:

    Gratitude: Celebrating our growing community of frequent listeners.Honest Reflections: The challenges and rewards of balancing podcasting with life and work.Looking Ahead: A sneak peek into 2025 with promises of more inspiring guests and diverse perspectives.

    Links and Resources:

    Connect with us: [email protected] or message us on LinkedIn!Got a story or feedback? We’d love to hear from you.

    This uplifting episode is a fitting wrap-up to 2024, offering a glimpse into the dedication and passion behind every conversation. Tune in for a dose of Christmas cheer and start the new year inspired!

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this episode of the Product Agility Podcast, Ben Maynard welcomes Abdo Wahba, presentation coach and product expert, to explore why so many presentations fail to create stakeholder buy-in—and more importantly, how to fix them. Drawing from over 1,300 hours of coaching experience, Abdo shares practical techniques to improve your communication skills and effectively influence stakeholders.

    If you’ve ever struggled with delivering impactful presentations that resonate with senior leaders or align your team, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you succeed.

    Key Takeaways:

    Start from the End: Why leading with your conclusion hooks attention and drives decisions.Engaging Stakeholders: Practical steps to tailor your message to resonate with your audience.Storytelling in Business: How to use stories to build emotional connections.Focus on One Key Takeaway: Ensuring your message is clear, memorable, and actionable.

    Practical Tools & Methods:

    Audience-Centric Frameworks: Flip the script to prioritise what your audience needs to hear.Gossip as a Strategy: Engage through relatable stories and examples that hold attention.Houston, We Have a Problem Template: A storytelling structure for framing problems and solutions effectively.

    Quotable Moments:

    "Your audience doesn’t care about your process; they care about what it means for them."
    "Focus on one takeaway—because chances are that’s all they’ll remember."

    Links and Resources:

    Connect with Abdo Wahba: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdelrahmanwahba/

    This engaging conversation provides a masterclass in making your presentations matter. Whether you’re pitching to stakeholders, rallying a team, or presenting at a conference, you’ll learn how to inspire action and drive alignment.

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this episode of the Product Agility Podcast, Ben welcomes Tamas Kokeny, CTO of Bobcats Coding, to explore the often-overlooked yet critical intersection of technology and product agility. Tamas brings his extensive technical expertise to discuss how to prioritise early testing over relying solely on sophisticated metrics to create products that truly resonate with users.

    If you've ever grappled with finding the balance between innovation and pragmatism in product development, this episode delivers insights and real-world advice to transform your approach.

    Key Takeaways:

    Early Testing Over Perfection: Why embracing failure and quick iterations often yields better results than long-term product visions.From Vision to Validation: Practical tips on avoiding the trap of building for months only to find no market fit.Building the Right Infrastructure: Insights into setting up systems for continuous experimentation and feature toggling.Mindset Shift: Moving from "house-building" to "evolutionary" thinking in digital product development.

    Practical Tools & Methods:

    Concierge MVPs: How manual processes and simple tools like Google Sheets can validate ideas without heavy investment.Feature Toggles: Streamline experimentation with small user cohorts before scaling features.Case Study Insights: Stories of startups succeeding with minimal viable products and adaptive strategies.

    Quotable Moments:

    "Most product ideas are bad, and that's okay. The goal is to quickly figure out which ones aren't.""The infrastructure for testing isn't optional—it's the lifeblood of lean product development.""Digital products should evolve daily, not be treated like static house blueprints."

    Links and Resources:

    Learn more about Bobcats Coding: bobcatscoding.comConnect with Tamas Kokeny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eggdice/

    This candid and knowledge-packed conversation reveals how to innovate smarter, build products users love, and stay ahead in an ever-changing digital landscape.

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this episode of the Product Agility Podcast, Ben speaks with Jurriaan Kamer, thought leader, consultant, and co-author of Unblock: How to Create Focused and Adaptable Organizations. Jurriaan shares insights from his experience helping organisations overcome bureaucracy, embrace aligned autonomy, and foster true agility at every level.

    If you’ve ever wondered how to move beyond vague mission statements and create strategies that work, this episode offers practical advice and actionable frameworks to help you build a more adaptable, focused organization.

    Key Takeaways:

    Aligned Autonomy in Practice: How to balance alignment with autonomy to empower teams while maintaining organisational focus.The Power of Strategic Intent: Replacing vague mission statements with clear, strategic intent to guide decisions and achieve impactful outcomes.Tackling Harmony Addiction: Why avoiding conflict can harm team growth and how to foster constructive disagreement.From Cascading to Integration: Why traditional strategy rollouts fail and how participatory change can improve engagement and results.

    Practical Tools & Methods:

    Even Over Statements: A method to clarify trade-offs and prioritise effectively across teams.Self-Alignment Workshops: Ways to involve teams in co-creating strategies that align with organisational goals.

    Quotable Moments:

    "Strategy isn’t a deck—it’s a cohesive set of choices that enable you to win.""True leadership is about designing systems, not directing traffic."

    Links and Resources:

    Connect with Jurriaan Kamer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jurriaankamerLearn more about Unblock: www.unblock.works

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this episode of the Product Agility Podcast, Ben sits down with Evgeniy Kharam, author and communication expert, to discuss the underrated art of clear communication and its role in building influence. Drawing on his experience in technical sales and cybersecurity, Evgeniy shares why “soft” skills are anything but soft, and how mastering them can help leaders connect, engage, and drive impact. If you’ve ever struggled to make your ideas stick or felt nervous presenting to a crowd, this episode is packed with insights to help you feel more confident and effective.

    Key Takeaways:

    Turning Fear into Excitement: How recognising the difference between fear and excitement can make presentations feel manageable—and even enjoyable.Curiosity as a Core Skill: Why maintaining a mindset of curiosity leads to better questions, stronger connections, and a more engaging presence.Communicating with Clarity: Simple strategies to cut through jargon and ensure your message lands with any audience.Breathing and Visualisation Techniques: Practical tools to calm your nerves, increase focus, and improve your presentation flow.


    Practical Tools & Methods:

    Box Breathing: A breathing exercise to help you relax, stay centred, and communicate with ease.

    Building Rapport with “Hooks”: How to find common ground quickly and make authentic connections with anyone.

    Quotable Moments:

    "Communication isn’t about what you say; it’s about what others understand."
    "Empathy isn’t just a ‘soft’ skill—it’s essential to making ideas resonate."

    Links and Resources:

    Connect with Evgeniy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ekharam/

    For more on Evgeniy’s work, visit his website at https://www.softskillstech.ca/

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    In this episode of the Product Agility Podcast, Ben sits down with OKR and strategy expert Richard Russell to tackle a challenge many scale-ups face: OKR overload. Richard, with years of experience at Amazon and Google, shares insights on creating effective objectives without overwhelming teams. If you've felt the pain of unfocused, sprawling OKRs, this episode sheds light on simplifying and strengthening your approach.

    Key Takeaways:

    The Pitfalls of Too Many OKRs: How having excessive objectives dilutes focus and overwhelms teams.Achieving Alignment Without Overload: Why keeping OKRs lean and clear is more impactful.The Role of Strategy: OKRs should be an extension of a well-defined strategy, not a substitute for one.Centralisation vs. Autonomy: Find the balance between a unified direction and team-led execution.Avoiding Task Overload: How to steer clear of overwhelming backlogs and stay focused on impactful outcomes.

    Practical Tools & Methods:

    Setting Priorities with Fewer OKRs: Limit OKRs to those directly tied to critical outcomes.The Execution Flywheel: Richard’s unique framework that uses strategy, goals, planning, and review for sustainable growth.

    Quotable Moments:

    "OKRs are meant to guide focus, not create it. Without a clear strategy, they’re just more tasks.""A few strong objectives will take you farther than an endless list of ‘nice-to-haves.’”

    Links and Resources:

    Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: Richard Russell LinkedIn

    Want more insights on OKRs and strategy? Visit Richard’s website at richardrussell.co for resources and tips on practical, lean OKRs.

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    We wrap up our coverage of Productized 2024 with an engaging conversation with the renowned Radhika Dutt. As a returning guest and a fan-favorite, Radhika brings her unique insights into the challenges product teams face when using OKRs and shares her radical rethinking on this popular framework.

    In this episode, we dive deep into her new talk on “Radically Rethinking OKRs,” where Radhika passionately argues for moving away from the traditional OKRs model, which she believes often leads to short-term thinking and performance gaming. Instead, she advocates for a shift to hypothesis-driven objectives and key learnings, emphasising continuous learning over rigid goal-setting.

    Radhika on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/radhika-dutt/

    Episode Highlights:

    The pitfalls of the traditional OKRs and how they push teams toward short-term fixesHow a hypothesis-driven approach fosters true learning and long-term successReal-world examples from Radhika’s extensive experience in helping teams break free from vision debtPractical tips on how product teams can implement these radical ideas into their own OKRs process

    Whether you're new to OKRs or a seasoned product manager, this episode is packed with actionable insights that can help your team thrive in a constantly evolving product landscape.

    Don’t miss out on this transformative conversation and be sure to connect with Radhika on LinkedIn if you’re eager to dive deeper into her radical ideas!

    Use code PROD24 for 15% off training courses at Sheev – https://www.sheev.co.uk

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    We’re excited to bring you more exclusive content from Productized 2024, our third conference of the year! This series continues our TalkInTen format, where we deliver concise, impactful conversations with industry leaders driving innovation in product and business agility. Each episode is packed with fresh insights, actionable strategies, and real-world examples to help teams and organisations thrive.

    In this episode, we’re joined by Esra Yetis, who co-facilitated the Enabling Product Thinking Mindset workshop with Chris Compton. Esra shares her thoughts on how a product thinking mindset can transform how teams approach problem-solving and innovation. She dives deep into the key principles of product thinking, explaining why it’s essential for teams to move beyond project-based thinking to embrace continuous learning, experimentation, and growth.

    Esra on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/esrayetis/

    Episode Highlights:

    Shifting from a project-based model to a continuous learning and experimentation mindsetThe importance of being data-informed rather than solely data-driven in product decisionsHow product thinking fosters team growth, innovation, and adaptabilityPractical exercises from the workshop that helped participants apply product thinking to real-world challenges

    If you enjoy our episodes, please leave a review and stay tuned for more great episodes from the Product Agility Podcast!

    Use code PROD24 for 15% off training courses at Sheev – https://www.sheev.co.uk

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    We’re excited to bring you more exclusive content from Productized 2024, our third major event of the year! This series continues with our engaging TalkInTen format, featuring quick yet impactful conversations with industry leaders who are driving innovation in product management and business agility. Whether you’re looking to elevate your product strategy or embrace new ways of scaling your teams, these episodes are filled with actionable insights and practical frameworks to help you thrive.

    In this episode, we’re joined by Asya Kuznetsova, a growth leader from Wise (formerly TransferWise), who dives into the often misunderstood but highly effective world of user advocacy. Asya reveals how product managers can tap into the power of Word-of-Mouth (WoM) marketing and referral loops to drive organic, sustainable growth. She explores how to design dynamic growth loops, implement successful referral programs, and convert your users into enthusiastic advocates.

    Asya on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/asya-kuznetsova/

    Here is the synopsis of Asya's Talk:

    In today's competitive landscape, achieving growth requires more than traditional marketing. In this talk, Asya will reveal how product managers can leverage Word-of-Mouth (WoM) and recommendation features for sustainable, organic growth. You'll learn to move from standard funnels to dynamic growth loops, create impactful recommendation journeys, and use referral programs to turn users into enthusiastic advocates.

    If you enjoy the show, please leave a review and stay tuned for more great episodes from the Product Agility Podcast!

    Use code PROD24 for 15% off training courses at Sheev.

    Sheev - https://www.sheev.co.uk

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    We’re thrilled to bring you more exclusive insights from Productized 2024, our third major event of the year! This series continues our engaging TalkInTen format, where we explore concise, high-impact conversations with industry leaders pushing the boundaries of product management and business agility. Each episode delivers fresh perspectives, practical strategies, and real-world examples designed to help teams and organisations adapt, grow, and succeed in today’s fast-paced environment.

    In this episode, we’re joined by Rich Mironov, a renowned product management expert and author of The Art of Product Management. Rich takes us on a thoughtful journey into the often-underappreciated emotional side of product management. He discusses how product leaders can rediscover joy in their roles, tackle the challenges of imposter syndrome, and find purpose in supporting their teams and products. Rich’s insights are a must-hear for anyone looking to balance the emotional demands of product leadership with the fulfilment that comes from creating impactful, user-centred products.

    Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/richmironov/

    Key Takeaways from Rich's Talk:

    Understanding the emotional rollercoaster of product management and why it’s important to embrace it.Strategies for finding joy and satisfaction in your work, even when the road gets tough.How to support your team and products with empathy, while leaving ego at the door.


    Here is the synopsis of Rich's Talk:

    Product management is hard. Almost no one else in our organization understands how we add value. Most of us suffer from imposter syndrome. And we spent lots of energy arguing with each other about exactly what should – and should not – be part of our jobs. So it’s important to remember *WHY* we do what we do – and to find some joy in it. We love our products, are passionate about our end users, and are deeply empathetic as well as analytical.

    If you enjoy the show, please leave a review and stay tuned for more great episodes from the Product Agility Podcast!

    Use code PROD24 for 15% off training courses at Sheev.

    Sheev - https://www.sheev.co.uk

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80

  • Send us a text

    We’re excited to bring you exclusive content from Productized 2024, our third conference of the year! This series continues our TalkInTen format, where we deliver concise, impactful conversations with industry leaders driving innovation in product and business agility. Each episode is packed with fresh insights, actionable strategies, and real-world examples to help teams and organisations thrive.

    In this episode, we’re joined by Aggelos Mouzakitis, an expert in growth and value-based pricing, to explore the critical role pricing and packaging play in driving revenue for B2B SaaS companies. Aggelos walks us through the complexities of value-based pricing, offering practical advice on how companies can structure their pricing models to maximise value for their customers while boosting their bottom line.

    Aggelos on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/growth-product-manager/

    Episode Highlights:

    Value-Based Pricing as a Growth Strategy: Learn why pricing is more than just a financial decision—it's a core part of your positioning and growth strategy.Packaging for Success: Understand how to segment your customers and tailor your product packages to meet their needs effectively.Key Dependencies: Explore the factors that influence pricing decisions, including growth stage, go-to-market strategy, and customer segmentation.Real-World Case Study: Aggelos shares a case study of a company with flawed pricing, revealing how the right pricing strategy can transform business performance.

    Here is the synopsis of Aggelos's Workshop:

    Whether you're facing challenges in growth or grappling with setting prices for your product plans, this workshop is perfect to help you learn how to leverage value-based pricing like a scientist, ensuring your offerings are not just priced right, but are perceived as valuable by your customers.

    If you enjoy our episodes, please leave a review and stay tuned for more great episodes from the Product Agility Podcast!

    Use code PROD24 for 15% off training courses at Sheev.

    Sheev - https://www.sheev.co.uk

    Host Bio

    Ben is a seasoned expert in product agility coaching, unleashing the potential of people and products. With over a decade of experience, his focus now is product-led growth & agility in organisations of all sizes.

    Stay up-to-date with us on our social media📱!

    Ben Maynard

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/

    🐦 https://x.com/BenWMaynard

    💻 https://sheev.co.uk/

    Product Agility Podcast

    🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/productagilitypod/

    💻 https://productagilitypod.co.uk/

    🖇️ https://linktr.ee/productagility

    Listen & Share On Spotify & iTunes

    Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0lkwAYJzVSuk5zfJ1vIDZq?si=4c691fb12f124a56 iTunes - https://apple.co/3YvTX8p


    Want to come on the podcast?

    Want to be a guest or have a guest request? Let us know here https://bit.ly/49osN80