“The most precious gift you can give someone is your time and attention”

This is it - the 52nd and final episode of doing it my way by beata matras in 2024.

It’s been a year full of lessons, challenges, growth, and new beginnings.

In this personal episode, I’m reflecting on the key lessons I’ve learned this year, both in my career and personal life.

From the messy middle to moments of clarity, I hope these lessons resonate with anyone navigating their own journey.

✨ My key lessons:

As I step into a new chapter and take a break from podcasting, I hope this episode helps someone out there who’s navigating their own messy middle.

Until next time, take care and - keep doing it your way 💫

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Explore more episodes: https://linktr.ee/doingitmywaybybeatamatras⁠

Youtube: https://youtu.be/G9AjhHQYabU

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🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!

If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.

🔗 ⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras⁠⁠ 🍵

Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)

"Building self-awareness was the first step to managing my ADHD symptoms. You don’t need to do everything at once - start small and build habits gradually."

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As a project and product manager, I’ve had to find creative ways to navigate the challenges of ADHD while building a fulfilling career.

This is my story, with all its ups and downs, and I hope it helps others to accept their uniqueness and learn how to manage their challenges better.

✨ Episode Focus:

This episode delves into the realities of living with ADHD - how it impacts personal and professional life, the misconceptions surrounding it, and the strategies I’ve developed to manage it. From self-awareness to practical coping mechanisms, I share insights into how ADHD has shaped my journey and what I’ve learned along the way.

🔍 What to expect in this episode:

- what ADHD is and how it manifests in everyday life,

- the emotional and professional challenges of ADHD,

- strategies for managing ADHD, including energy management and self-advocacy,

- how to embrace neurodiversity in the workplace,

- why self-acceptance is the foundation for growth.

Links:

Youtube: https://youtu.be/lYrlueQLFRc

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🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!

If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.

🔗 ⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras⁠⁠ 🍵

Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)

Confidence doesn’t come from knowing everything. It comes from starting small.

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🎙 Guest Overview:

⁠Alena Placha⁠, Head of the Middle East Chapter at She Loves Data, is on a mission to demystify data, humanize AI, and empower women in tech.

With a background that spans consulting, fintech, and community leadership, Alena brings passion and practical insights to help women break into AI and data without feeling overwhelmed.

✨ Episode Focus:

In this episode, we explore how to navigate the world of AI and data, breaking down barriers for women in tech. Alena shares her journey, practical advice for building confidence, and insights into creating inclusive places and communities that value diverse perspectives.

⏰ Chapters⏰:

Links:

🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!

If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.

🔗 ⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras⁠⁠⁠ 🍵

Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)

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YouTube link: https://youtu.be/0TbqTq71OZg

AI won’t take your job as a leader, but it will change how you lead

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🎙 Guest Overview:

⁠⁠Jurgen Appelo⁠⁠ is a writer, speaker, and entrepreneur specializing in agility, innovation, and leadership. He is the creator of the unFIX Model and the Management 3.0 framework and author of the sci-fi novel Glitches of Gods. Describing himself as slightly anarchistic, autistic, and eccentric, Jurgen’s perspective is transforming how organizations operate in the modern world.

✨ Episode Focus:

In this episode, Jurgen shares insights into modern leadership, the rise of AI, and how agility and innovation are reshaping management.

We discuss the unFIX Model, the power of neurodiversity in teams, and strategies to build safe, high-performing teams while preparing for the future of work.

⏰ Chapters ⏰:

00:00 Introduction and guest overview

01:30 Jurgen’s journey from software engineer to leadership expert

03:30 the unFIX Model: a Lego-style approach to management

08:30 leadership & organisational design in the AI era

13:00 what leaders can do to stay relevant in AI era

19:00 neurodiversity in the workplace

24:20 how to embrace your neurodiversity

26:30 how organizations can support neurodiversity

30:58 practical strategies for building high-performing teams

36:30 creating a safe environment

37:10 feedback culture & tough conversations

41:30 preparing for leadership shifts in the age of AI

45:05 closing remarks and upcoming projects

🔍 What you will learn:

Links:

YouTube: ⁠⁠https://youtu.be/gmVseVAx-ZQ⁠⁠

—

🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!

If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.

🔗 ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🍵

Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)

Your network is an extension of your values and principles.

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🎙 Guest Overview:

Bevin Mohabeer is an award-winning Experience Design Leader from London, on a mission to "put Experience Design in places where you least expect".

With over 8+ years of experience, Bev has built Creative & Experience Design teams from the ground up for organizations like Emarat, DP World, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Crate & Barrel, Marks & Spencer, JP Morgan Chase, and more, bringing over 30+ live products to life around the world.

✨ Episode Focus:

In this episode, we dive into the intersection of design and networking, offering practical advice on creating genuine connections, maintaining authenticity, and leveraging relationships for career growth.

We are challenging the transactional nature of typical interactions.

Bev shares strategies to build authentic connections, highlights the importance of self-awareness and intentionality, and emphasizes networking as a way to enrich one’s personal and professional life.

⏰ Chapters ⏰:

00:00 introduction and guest overview

01:30 Bev’s career journey

05:15 the core principles of UX and design

12:00 the importance of asking questions

15:15 balancing user needs with business goals

20:00 networking introduction

21:05 leaving a positive impression in professional interactions

27:02 the importance of focusing on and appreciating others

32:40 how networking can directly lead to interesting opportunities

38:55 the importance of presenting yourself and leaving a positive emotional footprint

40:30 how to redefine networking

42:35 tips for introverts to network effectively

47:50 it’s not about us, it’s about them

48:10 the role of empathy, self-awareness and authenticity in professional networking

53:20 practical tips to expand your network

59:10 key takeaways and where to find Bev online

🔍 What you will learn:

Links:

YouTube: https://youtu.be/6zlk3Rgl5II

—

🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!

If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.

🔗 ⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras⁠⁠ 🍵

Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)

Feedback isn’t criticism - it’s a tool for growth. Building resilience means seeing rejection as redirection

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🎙 Guest Overview

Nesrine Changuel, PhD, is a product management expert with over a decade of experience at major tech companies like Google, Spotify, and Microsoft. Her work has been instrumental in building large-scale, user-focused products that reach millions. Beyond her technical expertise, Nesrine is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, mentoring the next generation of tech leaders and empowering women in product management through speaking, coaching, and advising.

✨ Episode Focus

In this episode, Nesrine shares insights on building scalable products that genuinely resonate with users. She discusses the role of empathy, cultural awareness, and team diversity in creating products that people connect with.

🔍 What you’ll hear about

⏰ Chapters ⏰

00:00 Introduction and guest overview

01:40 Nesrine’s career journey and transition to product management

05:10 key principles for building large-scale, user-focused products

08:20 managing scalability without losing user-centered focus

12:55 biggest challenges in creating scalable and delightful products

15:45 how empathy and emotional connection shape great products

17:15 why diversity and inclusion matter for innovation

19:20 women's role in product innovation, and how can organizations better support them

21:00 the most common challenges that women face in tech leadership, and how Nesrine overcame them

24:20 navigating challenges in global product management (AI, new technologies, Product Management redundancy)

28:10 Product Management knowledge areas and top skills

31:45 areas of product management that we should focus on to stay relevant in the industry

34:45 advice for aspiring product managers

38:30 final thoughts and where to connect with Nesrine

Links:

Youtube: ⁠https://youtu.be/lTYZsePNcd0⁠

—

🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!

If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.

🔗 ⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras⁠⁠⁠ 🍵

Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)

UAE values resilience and adaptability. It’s not just about skills - it’s about attitude. Persistence and creativity are vital here. Be prepared to face rejection, but don’t give up.

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🎙 Guest Overview

⁠Harry Silvester⁠, Head of Product & Design Recruitment at ⁠Discovered MENA⁠, brings over six years of experience in the UK and European markets, specializing in placing design teams and digital leaders within top agencies and brands.

Now based in Dubai, he shares his insights into the MENA job market, recruitment strategies, and how candidates can stand out in a competitive landscape.

✨ Episode Focus

Harry offers practical guidance on breaking into Dubai's job market, covering key strategies to land roles in product and design.

We discuss everything from understanding industry trends to building resilience, leveraging LinkedIn, and using creative methods to make a mark in the region.

This conversation is essential for anyone seeking career growth in Dubai’s fast-paced environment.

⏰ Chapters ⏰

01:25 introduction and Harry's background

03:25 transition to Dubai: opportunities and challenges

6:30 how the job market in MENA evolved over years

8:20 should I apply if I tick 50% of boxes

9:10 insights into the job market in the MENA region

11:50 unique challenges or opportunities in the Dubai job market compared to other regions

17:20 how to stand out in the MENA market

20:20 the part where I'm singing about job searching

22:20 Harry's advice on how to start the job search in MENA region

26:15 common mistakes job seekers make during their job search and how can they overcome them

30:50 how to use LinkedIn to support your job search

32:15 importance of relationship building

37:30 what are the top three things candidates should focus on to nail a job interview in Dubai

41:00 summary of how to prepare yourself for the MENA market

42:30 how AI is reshaping is the job market for product managers and recruitment

44:45 specific trends that can impact recruitment and product management in the near future

47:00 my personal challenges on job search in MENA region

35:30 how to Handle Rejections and Keep Moving Forward

53:05 one crucial piece of advice to someone on the hunt for their dream job in UAE

55:00 where to find Harry (online and offline)

🔍 What you will learn:

Links:

Youtube: https://youtu.be/pQ2cb3k-_50

—

🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!

If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.

🔗 ⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras⁠⁠⁠ 🍵

Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)

The most successful people aren’t afraid of falling from the top - they take risks, while others hold back due to fear of failure

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🎙 Guest Overview

Emilia Jaworska is an IT project and program manager, communications expert, mentor, and podcaster based in Dubai.

With extensive experience across Europe and the Middle East, Emilia has built a strong career, navigating both cultural and professional challenges.

Known for her resilience and dedication, she now empowers others through her podcast, sharing positive female narratives in the Middle East.

✨ Episode Focus

In this episode, Emilia shares her journey of moving from Europe to the Middle East, her experiences with burnout, building a personal brand, and the importance of embracing oneself amidst societal pressures.

We cover strategies to thrive in a high-paced market while staying true to personal values and maintaining holistic well-being.

⏰ Chapters ⏰

00:00 introduction and guest overview

01:25 Emilia’s career journey from Poland to Dubai

04:35 challenges of working in a foreign, competitive environment

06:25 the importance of personal brand and network in Dubai

08:25 tips on positioning yourself in the new market

11:55 scared vs excited

17:00 the challenges when moving to the new country or market and how to overcome them

19:40 the role of self-awareness and resilience, and insights into IT and marketing industry in Dubai

23:50 handling societal pressures and staying true to oneself

33:45 Emilia’s journey into business coaching and mentoring

41:50 the story of "Dziewczyny z Dubaju: Her Dubai Story" - podcast that highlights Polish women successes in Dubai

51:40 our podcasting lessons

54:25 key advice and upcoming projects

56:45 where to find Emilia online

🔍 What you will learn

Links:

YouTube: https://youtu.be/5CQQ1_de-XU

—

🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!

If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.

🔗 ⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras⁠⁠ 🍵

Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)

Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s about showing up as the best version of yourself for others too.

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🎙 Guest Overview

⁠Asher Kennedy⁠ is the founder of Level One Coaching, dedicated to helping professionals build healthier, more balanced lives.

With a background in corporate recruitment and a passion for fitness, Asher brings his insights into the intersection of career and well-being.

His journey from the corporate world to fitness coaching has empowered countless individuals to take control of their health (and career!).

✨ Episode Focus

In this episode, we discuss the importance of fitness and self-care, especially in high-stress careers. Asher shares insights into the power of small steps, mindset shifts, and daily routines to support long-term well-being.

⏰ Chapters ⏰

00:00 introduction to the episode and guest

01:35 Asher’s career transition and the motivation behind fitness coaching

04:20 how fitness shaped Asher’s approach to career and health

06:55 how to start your fitness journey when they’re facing a life crisis

11:30 small steps that make a big difference in fitness and life

17:30 mental resilience, delayed gratification, and fitness as a life foundation

25:20 practical advices for busy professionals to stay fit

31:50 "love is a verb"

35:00 Asher’s early business, corporate career and fitness story

41:40 final advice on fitness and career

47:40 where to find Asher online

48:40 closing thoughts

🔍 What you will learn:

Links:

YouTube: https://youtu.be/On1_mN1DUzw

—

🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!

If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.

🔗 ⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras⁠⁠⁠ 🍵

Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)

Taking small actions, like changing habits or setting boundaries, can make a big difference in preventing burnout

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🎙 Guest:

With years of technical experience and a focus on positive psychology, Ola’s journey has evolved from purely technical work to mentoring and promoting mental well-being in the workplace.

Her dedication to balancing professional growth and personal health makes her a valuable voice in today’s discussions about burnout prevention.

✨ Episode Focus:

In this episode, we discuss the issue of burnout in the tech industry. Ola shares her personal experience of burnout, discusses the importance of employee engagement, and provides practical strategies for preventing burnout and maintaining mental well-being.

Ola also highlights the unique challenges faced by women in tech and the role of positive psychology in career development.

⏰ Chapters ⏰:

00:00 introduction and guest overview

01:35 Ola’s journey from software engineering to burnout prevention

06:30 key factors that drive employee engagement in the workplace

11:30 how to take care about your engagement at work

14:05 how to focus on the things in your control

17:50 key factors that drive engagement at work

21:20 how leaders can take care of team's engagement

25:10 common signs of burnout

31:00 Ola's burnout experience and her strategies to overcome it

34:15 burnout among women in tech and unique challenges

41:30 practical anti-burnout techniques for IT professionals

51:30 mindset shift needed in preventing burnout

56:20 gratitude, acceptance and patience

1:00:05 trends in managing employee well-being

1:08:30 key advice from Ola to prevent burnout

1:11:20 where to connect with Ola

🔍 What you will learn:

Episode links:

Podcast links:

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🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!

If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.

🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵

Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)