In this episode of the podcast, I speak with Christian Idiodi, a renowned product leader and partner at Silicon Valley Product Group. Christian shares how he helped launch a product that generated $32 million in just 90 days — using a technique far more powerful than user stories, PRDs, or acceptance criteria. He has worked with companies like Starbucks and McDonald's, helping them turn complex problems into successful products.We discuss the real role of a product manager, how to tackle customer discovery, and the importance of team collaboration in solving real problems. Christian also shares his thoughts on breaking into product management, even when junior roles are scarce.Key Topics:- The core responsibilities of a product manager- Why many companies don't need product managers- The difference between feature teams and empowered product teams- How to transition from delivering projects to solving real problems- Advice for breaking into product management in tough job marketsConnect with Christian Idiodi:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cidiodiInnovate Africa Foundation - https://www.innovateafricafoundation.org/Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro0:07 – Christian’s $32M product launch story2:03 – The true role of a product manager5:02 – Feature teams vs. product teams9:05 – Solving the real problem, not just delivering features17:07 – The reference customer technique22:16 – Finding early adopters and building the right product35:40 – Case study: McDonald's & Starbucks hiring solution52:26 – Advice for aspiring product managers in difficult markets1:00:10 – Coaching and building great teams1:12:30 – Breaking into product management in the UAE & KSA1:20:00 – Christian’s work in Africa and how you can help