169. From Software Developer to CEO (w/Adam Oliver)

In this episode of Product Coffee, Kevin welcomes Adam Oliver, Founder, and CEO of Crafted, a product development consultancy. Adam shares his product management journey, the challenges of transitioning into a leadership role as a founder, and offers insights on product development, advocating for a lean, iterative approach. He also discusses the importance of balanced teams, stressing the need for product design engagement. As a leader in times of economic uncertainty, Adam recommends a careful approach to spending and decision-making. He envisions AI and ML having an impactful role in product development in the future.

Adam's company: Crafted

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:53 Adam's Journey into Product Management

02:25 Adam's Experience with Pivotal Labs

03:35 Adam's Transition from Real Estate to Tech

04:59 Discussion on Extreme Programming

07:13 Adam's Experience with Pivotal Labs' IPO

09:56 Challenges and Benefits of Consultancy Work

13:44 Importance of Regular Product Hygiene

17:37 Staying Scrappy in Product Development

23:34 Balanced Teams for Project Success

24:31 The Importance of UI/UX in Software Development

25:04 The Evolution of Software and the Role of Engineers

25:47 The Impact of UI/UX on Engineering Efficiency

27:33 The Role of UI/UX in API Development

28:38 The Slow Recognition of UI/UX Importance in the Industry

29:11 The Concept of Iteratively Shipping Products

31:55 The Role of Product Marketing in Bridging the Gap

33:45 The Shift to Profitability and EBITDA Focus

38:28 The Challenges of Transitioning to a Founder Role

45:59 The Future of Product Development