In this episode of Behind the Product, Zac Darnell is joined by Yana Welinder, co-founder and CEO of Kraftful, an AI-powered toolkit for product teams. Together they explore how AI is transforming product management—from turning user feedback into actionable insights to evolving the very role of the product manager. Yana also shares her views on trust, regulation, and what it takes to stay ahead in a fast-moving AI landscape.

Key Takeaways:

1. AI as a Collaborator, Not a Replacement - Kraftful leverages AI to analyze user feedback and generate PRDs and user stories—giving product teams a head start while preserving human creativity and oversight.
2. Evolving Role of the PM - As AI automates tasks like project management, tomorrow’s product managers will become product builders—more strategic, hands-on, and deeply integrated into the creative process.
3. Building Trust in AI Tools - Transparency and control are essential. Kraftful emphasizes user trust by making AI decisions visible and editable—letting humans stay in the loop and in control.

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Timestamps:

• 02:51 - The Role of AI in Product Development
• 15:50 - The Evolution of Kraftful: From Concept to Launch
• 18:51 - Navigating AI Regulations and User Trust
• 29:51 - The Evolution of Product Management in the Age of AI
• 34:12 - Navigating Change in Product Management