Builders

In this episode, Christina Craver, Account Executive at Slack and former Oracle leader, dives into Dubai’s fast-paced tech scene, burnout, hiring challenges, and why MENA startups struggle with true innovation. We explore high-performance teams, startup culture, and the Slack vs. other workplace tools debate.Christina Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinamcraver🔹 Timestamps:0:00 - Christina’s Burnout Story in Dubai3:30 - Dubai’s Fast-Paced Work Culture vs. the US7:10 - Hiring in Dubai: Why Experience Matters More Than Potential10:00 - MENA Startups: Lack of True Innovation & Copycat Models14:40 - Why Risk-Taking in MENA Is Different from the West19:10 - Slack’s Impact on Productivity & Why Engineers Love It27:30 - How Christina Hires & Identifies Top Talent34:20 - Her Mission to Transform MENA Tech39:15 - Overcoming Impostor Syndrome & Sharing Your Voice42:30 - Connect with Christina & Final Thoughts

In this brutally honest and unfiltered conversation, Prashant, the founder of Zeda, an AI-powered platform for product managers, shares his journey from securing $3.7M in funding to ultimately shutting down his startup after four years.🚀 In this episode, we cover:- The reality of building and scaling a startup- Why product management tools struggle to find product-market fit- How Prashant navigated fundraising, growth, and difficult decisions- The biggest mistakes he made as a founder- Why he decided to shut down Zeda despite having money left in the bank- What’s next for Prashant after this intense startup journeyIf you're an aspiring founder, product manager, or investor, this is an eye-opening discussion on the real challenges of building a venture-backed startup.👉 Connect with Prashant on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prashantmahajan31🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more in-depth founder stories and product management insights!📌 Timeline:00:00 – Introduction00:37 – Industry secrets about product management tools01:10 – What is Zeda? The original vision vs. reality03:32 – How Zeda tried to revolutionize product management05:44 – Prashant’s background: From Paytm & Tokopedia to Silicon Valley07:14 – Why Prashant left high-paying jobs to start his own company08:36 – The brutal truth about entrepreneurship10:48 – What inefficiencies in product management tools led to Zeda?12:58 – The biggest gaps in product management tools today17:59 – Competing against industry giants like Jira & Aha!19:47 – The dirty secrets of enterprise SaaS sales22:14 – The shocking reality of product management tool adoption26:01 – How product managers fall for the “next big framework”29:59 – Balancing speed vs. depth in product management34:07 – Raising $3.7M in funding—why they were cautious with money39:03 – Why money doesn’t solve startup problems44:54 – Hiring mistakes & why startup hiring advice is flawed50:06 – The importance of urgency and execution in startups54:49 – Prashant’s biggest mistakes as a founder1:03:36 – Why Prashant decided to shut down Zeda1:07:10 – What’s next for Prashant?

When Jerry first got recruited into blockchain, he thought it was a scam. Now, he's leading innovation at Apex Fusion, a groundbreaking project aiming to solve Web3’s biggest challenges. In this episode, we explore:✅ Why Web3 adoption is still lagging✅ The biggest UX/UI issues in crypto and how to fix them✅ How Apex Fusion is revolutionizing blockchain technology✅ The role of decentralization, reputation systems, and self-sovereign identity✅ The real-world impact of crypto and why it’s here to stayIf you think crypto is just hype, this episode might change your mind. 🚀📅 Apex Fusion is now live as of February 20th!🔗 Explore Apex Fusion:🌐 ApexFusion.org💻 Developers & Stake Pools: developers.apexfusion.org🔵 Discord: Join the Apex Fusion Community🟡 X (Twitter): @ApexFusion📸 Instagram: @ApexFusionEpisode Timeline:0:00 - Introduction & Jerry’s background0:05 - Entering crypto as a skeptic0:19 - Do we really need to store our own Bitcoin?0:25 - Who is Jerry? His transition from corporate to blockchain0:31 - What’s stopping Web3 from mass adoption?0:38 - Apex Fusion’s vision: Solving blockchain’s biggest challenges0:43 - Is crypto all hype?0:48 - Apex Fusion goes live (Feb 20th announcement)0:54 - First impressions of Dubai & its rapid transformation1:12 - Jerry’s journey from Dell & corporate deals to Apex Fusion2:03 - The turning point: What made Jerry believe in blockchain?2:22 - Fidelity’s early Bitcoin adoption & why they supported his move2:54 - Why blockchain is much bigger than money3:29 - How Jerry bought his first Bitcoin during the pandemic3:56 - The terrible UX/UI problem in crypto4:48 - Early adopters vs. mass adoption: What needs to change?8:08 - What will drive mass adoption? Regulatory clarity & major players like Apple9:58 - Custodial vs. self-custody: Which is better?10:54 - Risks of self-custody & the importance of security12:04 - What problem is Apex Fusion solving?13:58 - The challenge of interoperability & connecting Web3 “islands”14:41 - How Apex Fusion enables cross-chain assets15:05 - The tribalism problem in crypto & why it hurts the industry16:45 - How Apex Fusion promotes collaboration over competition17:02 - Why tribalism exists in crypto: The search for a new digital religion19:02 - The importance of community-driven blockchain development19:49 - What Apex Fusion users can do today21:58 - What is cascading disruption? How Web3 will change industries23:00 - How stablecoins & tokenized assets are revolutionizing finance28:26 - The real use cases of blockchain (beyond speculation)30:45 - The future of self-sovereign identity & digital nation-states33:02 - Why Web3 is a counterbalance to rising authoritarianism35:41 - The biggest regulatory shift that will push crypto forward37:00 - How blockchain networks solve marketplace quality issues39:00 - Reputation systems & filtering out bad actors in Web342:12 - The strategy for Apex Fusion’s growth & network effect43:27 - How to get involved with Apex Fusion today45:00 - Closing thoughts & where to find Apex Fusion

🚀 How do top product leaders make it to the best companies like Spotify?In this exclusive interview, Johanna shares her incredible journey—from inventing a talking toothbrush for kids to leading product innovation at Spotify and Dubai’s top tech hubs.🌟 Learn how she tackled regulatory challenges, scaled teams through hackathons, and cracked the secret sauce of product leadership. Whether you're an aspiring product manager, a tech entrepreneur, or someone looking to break into tech, this episode is packed with actionable insights.🔹 What you’ll learn:✅ How Johanna got into product management with no direct experience✅ The biggest mistake new PMs make (and how to avoid it)✅ Why she believes backlogs should be deleted✅ The Spotify innovation framework that drives product success✅ How to break into highly regulated industries like FinTech & Crypto✅ The power of hackathons and why every company should run them💬 Let us know in the comments: What was your biggest takeaway?Johnna's Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/johannatheander/#Spotify #ProductManagement #TechLeadership #Johanna #StartupLife📌 Timestamps for Easy Navigation:00:00 - Intro: Who is Johanna?01:00 - The surprising thing about Dubai’s work culture03:00 - How Johanna broke into product management05:00 - Her biggest career mistake & what she learned09:00 - Inside Spotify’s product management culture12:00 - The secret sauce that makes Spotify’s teams work16:00 - How to run hackathons that actually drive innovation20:00 - Why you should delete your backlog today25:00 - The Scandinavian vs. Dubai leadership styles30:00 - Final advice for product managers & where to follow Johanna

Discover Abu Obeida’s journey from engineering at Microsoft and Amazon to leading product culture at Hunger Station in the GCC. Learn how he navigated rejection, overcame imposter syndrome, and championed customer-centricity in a fast-evolving market. Explore insights on transitioning from engineering to product management, building tech hubs, and fostering team culture.Keywords: product management, Hunger Station, GCC tech, Microsoft, Amazon, customer-centricity, product culture, building teamsConnect with Abu Obeida on Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/abuobeidaTimeline0:00 – 0:24: Introduction – Abu Obeida's background and career highlights0:25 – 12:17: Starting in Product Management – Journey from Saudi Arabia to Canada, breaking into Microsoft after 20 rejections12:18 – 19:05: Breaking into Microsoft – Overcoming rejection and seizing opportunities19:06 – 30:58: Engineering vs. Product – Why technical expertise can be a double-edged sword30:59 – 40:52: Cultural Transition – Adapting to product management in the GCC40:53 – 52:15: Building Hunger Station – Setting up a tech hub and fostering product culture52:16 – 1:04:08: Customer Obsession – Writing strategies and aligning teams1:04:09 – 1:19:05: Challenges in the GCC Market – Insights on innovation, mentorship, and mindset1:19:06 – 1:23:05: Closing Reflections – Final thoughts and connecting with Abu Obeida

Distraction isn't new—humans have battled it for over 2,500 years. But in today's world of iPhones, social media, and endless notifications, mastering focus is the skill of the century. In this episode, I sit down with Nir Eyal, bestselling author of Hooked and Indistractable, to uncover how we can overcome distraction, build better habits, and take control of our time and attention.From understanding the psychological roots of distraction to the transformative power of timeboxing and creating effort pacts, Nir provides actionable insights that can help you thrive in your relationships, career, and personal growth.💡 What You'll Learn:- The surprising root cause of distraction (it's not your phone).- How to identify and manage internal triggers.- Why timeboxing can help you achieve more.- Simple techniques like the 10-minute rule to stay focused.- How to align your schedule with your values for a fulfilling life.🌐 Learn More About Nir Eyal:Website: NirAndFar.comFree Indistractable Workbook: Indistractable.com📖 Books by Nir Eyal:- Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products- Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this episode resonates with you!Episode Timeline:0:00 – Intro: Why distraction isn’t caused by technology.0:18 – The importance of becoming indistractable in today’s world.1:02 – The root problem: Why we sabotage ourselves.2:33 – How focus transforms knowledge into wisdom.4:07 – The psychological cause of distraction.5:02 – The power to be indistractable: Nir’s personal story.7:12 – Distraction comes from within: Internal vs. external triggers.9:55 – Traction vs. distraction: The importance of intent.13:06 – How to master internal triggers.15:05 – The 10-minute rule: Surfing the urge to distraction.20:23 – Timeboxing: Planning your values into your schedule.27:12 – Reflective work vs. reactive work: The key to productivity.33:31 – Why to-do lists don’t work (and what to do instead).37:06 – Balancing work, fitness, relationships, and growth.40:52 – How to prevent distraction with effort pacts.46:20 – The identity shift: How to become indistractable.48:11 – Nir’s writing process: Turning complexity into simplicity.52:04 – Nir’s next book: Exploring the power of beliefs.53:00 – Where to find more about Nir Eyal.

Are you an aspiring Product Manager or a seasoned professional looking to sharpen your craft? In this engaging episode, Shravan (a.k.a. Swag Wala on YouTube) shares actionable insights, timeless wisdom, and practical strategies to elevate your product management game. We cover everything from cracking PM interviews to mastering the art of building impactful products. 🚀🔑 What you'll learn in this episode:- Why you DON'T need an MBA to become a Product Manager.- How to embrace failure as a stepping stone to growth.- The importance of being a generalist over a specialist in today’s world.- Combining emotional intelligence with technical skills for PM success.- Strategies for building trust and credibility in your first 90 days.- The future of Product Management: Why "PM" might not exist as a title in 10 years!Whether you're starting your PM journey or refining your craft, this episode is packed with actionable advice and deep insights.👋 Find Shravan here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shravantickoo/📌 Chapters for Easy Navigation:00:00 – Why You Don’t Need an MBA for Product Management02:00 – The Evolution of the PM Role07:30 – How to Embrace Failure and Build Resilience15:00 – The Power of Being a Generalist in a Specialist World23:00 – Building Your PM Portfolio and Network30:00 – What to Do in Your First 90 Days as a PM45:00 – Leveraging Empathy with Cross-Functional Teams55:00 – How AI Is Transforming the PM Role1:05:00 – Building Communities with Strong Core Values1:10:00 – The Philosophical Side of Product Management🔔 Subscribe for more actionable PM insights!

🚀 In this insightful episode, I'm thrilled to host Gökhan Polat, a seasoned product leader and Founder, who is redefining startup funding and collaboration through decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). With over a decade of experience scaling ventures and leading product teams, Goang dives deep into how Web3 and AI are transforming the way startups are built and operated.🎯 What you'll learn in this episode:- How DAOs are reshaping startup funding and talent collaboration.- Why equity ownership is being reimagined as a driver for growth.- The power of Web3 in reducing capital requirements for startups.- Gökhan's approach to research-driven product development and rapid product launches.- Insights into cross-functional leadership and future-proofing startups with AI.If you're a product leader, founder, or just curious about the future of startups, this conversation is packed with actionable insights you don’t want to miss.📌 Timeline:0:00 - Introduction to the Episode0:05 - Why all AI startups sound the same0:17 - Gökhan Polat's background and journey0:35 - The concept of DAOs and how they work1:32 - What it takes to build a startup in the AI and Web3 era2:39 - How R&DOW operates as a next-gen venture builder5:15 - Solving funding challenges for early-stage startups8:02 - How DAOs enable better collaboration and compensation11:13 - Why Web3 makes equity distribution more effective than ESOPs14:06 - Example: Together Crew's success in community analytics15:28 - Gökhan's strategies for rapid product launches17:30 - Incorporating a six-week product development cycle20:47 - Product discovery methodology and impactful user research24:11 - How user research shaped a real estate CRM tool27:50 - Leadership lessons in cross-functional, cross-cultural teams33:32 - Managing team dynamics and fostering collaboration37:21 - Lessons from 37signals and building in Web344:03 - Startups of the future: less admin, more AI, and Web3 at the core50:05 - Where to connect with Gökhan Polat's and explore R&DOW🌐 Resources Mentioned:Connect with Gökhan Polat on LinkedIn for insights on Web3 and product strategies. https://www.linkedin.com/in/polat/👉 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments below!

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Jeffrey Pfeffer, the world-renowned Stanford professor and author of "7 Rules of Power". In this powerful discussion, Jeffrey shares unfiltered insights on how anyone—not just CEOs or politicians—can harness power to achieve success.🔑 Key Topics Covered:Why confidence often beats competenceHow to stop sabotaging yourself and get out of your own wayThe hidden power of networking and personal brandingWhy breaking the rules can lead to spectacular successPractical exercises to project confidence and powerThis is not just a theoretical discussion—Jeffrey offers actionable advice that you can implement today to build influence, lead effectively, and make a lasting impact.📚 Resources Mentioned in the Episode:- Jeffrey Pfeffer’s podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@pfefferonpower/videosd- Website: jeffreypfeffer.com- LinkedIn: Jeffrey Pfeffer on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-pfeffer-57a01b6/Recommended things to watch:- Amy Cuddy – Presence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ks-_Mh1QhMc&ab_channel=TED- Herminia Ibarra – Act Like a Leader, Think Like a Leader https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WAG2SSf9NQc&ab_channel=LondonBusinessForum- Deborah Gruenfeld – Acting with Power https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mLFUtv0pCo&ab_channel=StanfordAlumni⏰ Episode Timeline:0:42 - Why '7 Rules of Power'?3:46 - The Defining Moment5:17 - Denial of Power Realities6:43 - Rule #1: Get Out of Your Own Way9:46 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome11:05 - Daily Confidence Habit12:45 - Confidence vs. Competence13:20 - Rule #2: Break the Rules15:15 - When to Break Rules17:57 - Cultural Differences in Power18:50 - Rule #3: Appear Powerful19:47 - Authenticity in Leadership21:53 - Are Leaders Emotional?22:55 - Rule #4: Build a Brand24:16 - Branding for Introverts27:14 - Rule #5: Network Relentlessly30:35 - Staying Connected31:34 - Rule #6: Use Your Power33:32 - Ethical Power Use35:47 - Rule #7: Take Initiative36:24 - Universal Applicability of Power Rules38:05 - Unique Challenges for Women and Minorities39:16 - Start with Rule #141:22 - Daily Power Habit43:55 - Final Takeaways46:28 - Connect with Jeffrey Pfeffer

In this episode, we sit down with the legendary Dr. Robert Cialdini, author of "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion". Known as the father of influence science, Dr. Cialdini unpacks the seven principles of persuasion and shares actionable insights on how to ethically influence others, build trust, and drive collaboration.🚀 Key Takeaways from the Episode:The difference between persuasion vs. manipulationWhy asking for advice instead of opinions leads to better collaborationThe psychology behind reciprocation and loyaltyThe power of scarcity, authority, and social proof in decision-makingHow small changes can lead to massive improvements in influenceWhether you're a product manager, leader, or entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with strategies you can apply immediately.🔗 Resources Mentioned:Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Dr. Robert CialdiniThe Cialdini Institute: www.cialdini.com📢 Share your biggest takeaway in the comments below!#Influence #Persuasion #RobertCialdini #Leadership #ProductManagement #Psychology #Podcast🕒 YouTube Episode Timeline0:00 Introduction – Welcoming Dr. Robert Cialdini0:32 The 7 Principles of Persuasion – Overview of the episode1:03 The Motivation Behind Discovering the Principles3:01 Persuasion vs. Manipulation – Key differences5:01 Why Asking for Advice, Not Opinions, Works Better8:28 The Power of Small Changes in Influence8:34 Principle 1: Reciprocation – The psychology behind giving first10:33 Improving Customer Loyalty Through Reciprocation12:12 The McDonald's Balloon Study – A real-world example13:10 What Makes a Gift Most Effective?16:01 The Art of Personalization in Gifts19:02 Principle 2: Liking – How similarities build rapport22:45 Negotiation Study: The Power of Commonalities24:22 How to Defend Against Manipulative Liking Techniques27:29 Shared Values: The Foundation of Long-term Relationships30:45 Principle 3: Social Proof – Reducing uncertainty33:34 Trends vs. Statistics in Social Proof38:04 Spotting Fake Reviews – Specific vs. General Comments40:19 Using Influencers for Social Proof41:09 Principle 4: Authority – Being 'an' authority vs. 'in' authority46:12 Why Precise Numbers Build Credibility48:20 Using Testimonials Effectively52:04 Red Flags for Biased Authority Opinions53:39 Principle 5: Scarcity – Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)**54:50 The Psychology of Loss Aversion56:37 Creating Ethical Scarcity Without Manipulation57:48 Principle 6: Commitment and Consistency1:00:56 Getting Team Accountability Through Public Commitment1:02:04 A Personal Example: Helping a Parent Quit Smoking1:05:10 Principle 7: Unity – From Similarity to Belonging1:09:07 Leveraging Shared Identity for Influence1:13:00 The Power of Storytelling in Communication1:16:41 How Writing Improves Clear Thinking1:17:02 Who Embodies Persuasion Principles in Business? (Warren Buffett Example)1:18:15 Where to Learn More About Dr. Cialdini's Work1:19:05 Closing Remarks & Gratitude