"Why did you decide to come to Berlin?" We asked.

In this episode, we explore Michalene Becker's journey from corporate giants to the startup ecosystem, and reflections on adapting to German workplace habits versus the American 'hustle culture.'

She shares why 'hustling' isn't sustainable, why having hobbies is a good sign and why there are things you need to "unlearn" when you move here.

What about German efficiency? Is that a thing? Listen to the full episode!

(00:01) The Berliner Work Culture

COVID-19's impact on immigrants in Berlin: increased English prevalence, difficulty making friends, work culture differences, and vibrant after-work culture.

(08:48) American Expat Lost in Berlin

Mich shares her experience relocating to Berlin, making German friends, and navigating life as a foreigner.

(28:48) Work Culture and Personal Relationships

Work culture's impact on team productivity and personal well-being, balancing hustle and rest, and finding a "content" middle ground.

(47:22) Sustainability Role in Product Management

Nature's dynamic role in product management, sustainability practices in the US vs Europe, and the influence of local practices on personal responsibility.

(57:42) The "German Efficiency"

Team dynamics, language barriers and German way of thinking. What's the fuss about German efficiency? How's that connected to "process"?

(01:04:10) Tech Culture and Work-Life Balance

Comparing attitudes towards work (and alcohol?), Berlin tech scene, and personal anecdotes.

(01:23:35) Navigating Work

Adapting to a new work culture as foreigners, we share experiences and frustrations, while keeping an open mind and (maybe?) voicing complaints.

Join us as we explore the intriguing world of cultural nuances in product management with our special guest, Catherine (Yueying) Tang, a seasoned professional who has started close to UX design and moved to the multifaceted role of a Product Manager. Catherine shares her experience at Autoscout24, where she met the hosts, and shares insights into the cultural contrasts that shape communication and stakeholder management, from the directness of Dutch interactions to the subtleties of 'saving face' in Asian business settings.

Discover how Catherine shed light on the trials and triumphs of job searching within the European tech landscape, the cultural adaptations required when moving for work, the intricacies of interview processes, and the critical considerations around fixed-term contracts and probation periods.

Listen in as we explore the chaotic yet humorous world of product management, sharing laughs with the frustrations voiced in a viral Reddit rant. With personal anecdotes, this episode is a blend of light-hearted banter and insightful strategies for those navigating the tightrope of product management roles.

Our chat isn't shy about revealing the less glamorous side of product management and the resilience needed to find joy amidst the challenges.

So, grab your headphones and join us for an episode that promises to (at least) entertain :D

(02:00) - Are you a Project Manager?

We address the issue of companies confusing product managers with project managers, the consequences of such a mix-up, and the challenge of finding autonomy in a role often misconceived. Moreover, we discuss the impact of the current job market on product managers and the tough choices they face when roles are scarce.

(07:51) - Alignment meetings and scope creep

We share the fine line product managers walk when prioritizing features, especially when facing stakeholder meetings and misunderstandings about scope start to arise. The art of prioritization and the power to manage expectations are the highlights of this chapter.

(11:12) - Have you considered this edge case?

This chapter tackles the delicate balance product managers must strike when prioritizing features and addressing user needs, particularly when dealing with a minority of users or 'edge case' scenarios.

(15:22) - "Hi, this is Mark from sales"

We discuss the often fraught relationship with sales teams in B2B environments, highlighting the tension between sales promises to clients and the product team's capacity and roadmap, culminating in the struggle to avoid creating a 'Frankenstein' product while still satisfying paying customers' demands.

(22:40) - Agile coaches and scrum masters

We explore the evolving roles within agile teams, wondering if "rebranded project managers" or "babysitters" are fair labels in some cases and contemplating whether their responsibilities could be absorbed by the team.

(30:49) - "Don't Take It Personal"

This chapter emphasizes the importance of not taking business setbacks personally and the necessity to move on from them. We explore the concept that in the realm of business, decisions are often impersonal and must be approached with a professional mindset

Dive into a unique episode with⁠ Reem Alwahabi⁠, where her journey from architect to UX guru unfolds. Reem, a third-culture kid with Arab roots, shares her colorful adventures across countries and industries.

In this episode, we're peeling back the layers of what sets European innovators apart from their American counterparts. From the European work-life harmony to the startup hustle, we're exploring how culture shapes the tech scene. Reem, hailing from the design world of DeepL, spills the beans on leadership quirks, team dynamics, and the secret sauce to motivation beyond the paycheck. 🌍💼

(00:00) - Startup Differences in Europe vs US

Reem's joins us to explore the unique challenges of the European startup scene, including work-life balance, talent acquisition, and potential for innovation.

(11:44) - Motivation and Leadership in the Workplace

Comparing American and German workplace cultures, legal issues, managerial styles, and the impact of vacation policies on work attitudes.

(19:57) - Product-Led B2B UX Challenges and DeepL

Nature's transition to a product-led, data-rich environment with emphasis on UX and self-serve models, using DeepL for effective communication and managing a remote design team.

(26:45) - Translation API for Global Communication

Nature's language translation tools enhance global business operations, marketing, product copywriting, and international team communication.

(30:45) - AI, Translation, Design, and CultureLanguage technology and AI voice training are revolutionizing podcasting, while teamwork and UX design are also discussed.

Dive into a unique episode with Reem Alwahabi, where her journey from architect to UX guru unfolds. Reem, a third-culture kid with Arab roots, shares her colorful adventures across countries and industries.

In this episode, she reveals the inner workings of the product world, from the synergies of PMs, designers, and engineers to the art of small talk in building strong teams.

Get insights into her role at AutoScout24, her transition to Preadium, and how she navigates the tech landscape with a blend of strategy and empathy. It's a candid look into the challenges and triumphs in product and deisgn 🌍🎨🛠️

(00:00) - From Architecture to UX Design

In this chapter, Reem Alwahabi, a vibrant third-culture kid and current Design Manager at DeepL, takes us through her transformative journey from architecture to UX design, sharing how her rich cultural background and experiences in various countries shaped her career, leading to her impactful roles at AutoScout24 and Preadium.

(12:40) - Collaboration in Product Development

This chapter delves into the synergy of PMs, designers, and EMs, emphasizing their combined role in understanding project scopes and the lasting impact of design choices.

(20:01) - Design and Trust in Product Management

Diving into the world of product development, we explore the dance of designers, engineers, and PMs, uncovering the art of blending clear expectations, cultural quirks, and the delicate balance of team dynamics.

(26:33) - Challenges of Diversity in Tech

Exploring diversity challenges in tech, we dive into gender imbalances, the intimidation of joining male-dominated teams, and the importance of early diversity initiatives in hiring. We discuss creating inclusive environments and the unique dynamics of working with product managers.

(31:37) - Challenges and Frustrations of Product Management

Discussing product management's nuances, we dive into the complexities PMs encounter, from strategic planning to enhancing soft skills, and how crucial collaboration is in aligning team goals and resolving conflicts.

(40:01) - Challenges and Reflections on Startup Roles

Transitioning from UX design to product management in startups, balancing autonomy and team collaboration, and the agility of startups in innovation.

What happens when an Argentinean and a Korean, both product managers, navigate the high seas of cross-cultural communication?

Join us, Enok and David, as we grapple with the intricate dance of high and low context communication styles, fuelled by our own rich blend of personal experiences and insights from Erin Meyer's enlightening book, "The Culture Map: Breaking Through the Invisible Boundaries of Global Business"

We shed light on our personal battles with adapting to divergent communication styles, emphasizing the need for understanding and adaptability to ensure effective communication.

We go further, discussing the implications of generational culture, especially in the age of TikTok and Instagram, and how it adds a new dimension to our communication.

Learn more about Erin's work: https://erinmeyer.com/

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(0:00:00) - Understanding Cultural Nuances in Communication

Nature's impact on cross-cultural communication, high vs. low context cultures, and personal experiences of multicultural managers.

(0:10:35) - Cultural Differences in Communication Styles

Enok and David share experiences with high/low context communication, explicit/implicit communication, and adapting to different styles in different cultures.

(0:26:11) - Communication Styles in Multicultural Teams

Nature's communication styles vary based on generation, culture, and digital influences, emphasizing the need for adaptability in a globalized world.

In this new episode of "Another Product Podcast," we sit down with Arion, a pioneering Visual Experience Designer at AutoScout24 and a vocal advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

We delve into his transformative journey from a digital nomad to a design expert in Berlin, his experiences as a tall, black, gay man in China, and the impact of culture shock on his worldview.

Arion candidly discusses the challenges of racial microaggressions and highlights how a work environment can be supportive. We also take a closer look at the nuances of diversity in the workforce between the U.S. and Germany.

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(00:00) Navigating Cultural Differences in the Workplace

Arion shares his journey from brand consultancy to graphic design, culture shock in China, and lessons in challenging authority.

(11:22) Navigating Stereotypes and Diversity in Career

Arion shares his experience of living and working in China, exploring stereotypes, appreciating identity, and the importance of DEI in a company.

(20:37) Job Seeking Preferences in Berlin

Arion’s journey to becoming a senior visual experience designer in Berlin, his motivation for living there, and anti-blackness personal discovery.

(26:29) Racism Challenge and Workplace Acceptance

Arion discussed AutoScout24's hiring process highlights, creating a safe space, reacting to racist jokes, educating others, and balancing his identity as an outsider.

(31:18) Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace

Arion shares his experience of transitioning from the US, exploring diversity, equity, and inclusion, and his involvement creating an inclusive work environment.

(43:05) Design and Dreams

Arion shares his dream, why he likes background singers, confidence, positive radiance, and why we think he's so special.

When it comes to product management, our guest for this episode, Lucas Massuh, is as seasoned as they come. An industry pioneer, Lucas takes us on a journey through his career, from his beginnings in Argentina to his current role as Director of Taxfix. We discuss the intricacies of transitioning from a technical background to becoming a product manager, and Lucas shares the wealth of knowledge he has accumulated along the way.

One of the highlights of our conversation is an exploration of both American and German styles of product development, a topic Lucas is no stranger to. His unique insights into managing delivery dates and stakeholder expectations are sure to provide fascinating food for thought for any budding or experienced product manager. We also delve into the demanding arena of e-commerce product management, dissecting user personas, optimizing for cost savings, and the crucial process of trust-building within leadership teams.

Not one to shy away from the future, Lucas gives us a peek into his predictions for content creation, particularly the burgeoning growth of video content. He also shares his thoughts on the world-shaking launch of the App Store and how it revolutionized mobile software installation. We wrap up our enriching discussion touching on the impact of personalization on user experience and the fascinating world of wearable tech. This episode is brimming with invaluable insights and nuggets of wisdom from one of the industry's most experienced professionals, so make sure you don't miss it!

(0:00:00) - Lucas and his PM journey

Lucas Massuh shares his transition from technical to PM, his role at Taxfix and advising startups, and his start at Intel's software dev center in Cordoba, Argentina.

(0:04:50) - Dates and Scope in Product Management

Lucas Massuh shares his journey from technical to PM, learnings from Marty Cagan, delivery dates importance, and managing stakeholder pushback.

(0:18:50) - E-Commerce Product Management Challenges

Lucas Massuh shares tips on transitioning to e-commerce product management, automating processes for cost savings, and building trust with leadership.

(0:34:38) - App Store and Apple Vision Pro

Apple Vision Pro, App Store, creating new habits, AI classification and image recognition, video growth and content creation discussed.

(0:47:38) - Tax Personalization and Remote Work Changes

Lucas Massuh shares insights on personalization, cultural differences, remote work, aiming each shot, communication, automation, and AI in product development.

In episode 4 of Another Product Podcast, we address listeners' burning questions on product management. We guide Carolina, a solo PM in a startup, on best practices and resources to better navigate her role.

We also help Julia from Germany explore the best approach for her transition from SEO management to product management.

Finally, we offer Justin, a recent business graduate from the US, advice on breaking into the PM role amidst a challenging job market. Join us as we deep-dive into real-world product management scenarios shared by our listeners.

Our PM Resource Recommendations:

- Lenny's Newsletter - Joining as the first product manager

Lenny’s Podcast w Fareed Mosavat Chief development officer at Reforge, Slack

- Reforge: The Product Strategy Stack

- ADP List: David Fernández

Tune into this episode of "Another Product Podcast: Tech Stories from Europe" as we unravel the complexities of Opera AI with the very person at the helm of it, Senior Director of Product Management at Opera, Mohamed Salah. He walks us through his personal journey in the tech industry, his thoughts on living in Germany, and his work at Opera, including the misinterpretations around their AI product, Aria.