In this episode, I talk with Adam Feinstein, Vice President of Product at AppFolio, about what makes a great product leader in technology organizations. Adam shares his journey from electrical engineering in semiconductors to leading product teams in software, discussing the transitions, challenges, and valuable lessons he’s learned along the way. We explore topics like transitioning between industries, moving from individual contributor to leader, the importance of people problems over technical ones, business acumen, collaborating across functions, the value of mentors and coaching, and Adam’s strategies for staying organized and effective as a VP of Product.

What distinguishes great product leaders in complex technology companies, and how do you become a great product leader? Is it technical knowledge, business acumen, or something else entirely? In this discussion, we’ll examine product leadership in tech organizations. 

Our guest is Adam Feinstein. We met at a product leadership group Rich Mironov organized to help product leaders excel. Adam is Vice President of Product at AppFolio. He has navigated the challenging journey from individual contributor to executive leadership, including switching from the hardware industry to software. AppFolio is transforming property management through innovative cloud-based solutions.

Whether you’re an aspiring product manager wondering about your career trajectory or a seasoned leader facing complex challenges, Adam’s candid insights on successes and trials will be helpful. 

 “Slow is smooth. Smooth is fast.” – Adam Feinstein

Adam Feinstein is the Vice President of Product Management at AppFolio, where he leads the Resident Industry Segment, a business dedicated to creating a modern, connected experience for renters—from application through move-out—and helping property managers deliver exceptional service throughout the resident journey. 

Since March 2025, Adam has embraced this new strategic focus, after previously leading product management for AppFolio’s Guard, Payments, and Screening businesses (GPS). In his current role, he is responsible for driving product strategy, innovation, and growth in one of the company’s most dynamic and strategic areas. 

Adam joined AppFolio in 2019 and has played a key role in scaling multiple lines of business through a blend of customer empathy, operational rigor, and cross-functional leadership. Before finding his home in proptech, Adam spent the early part of his career in semiconductor equipment manufacturing.

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