Product Experience Podcast - Interview with Brian Walsh

Introduction

• Podcast featuring Brian Walsh, SVP of Product at Pendo.
• Discussion on the role of company values in creating successful product teams.
• Recording set in Amsterdam with a unique atmosphere noted by Brian.

Brian Walsh's Background

• SVP of Product at Pendo, leading analytics, in-app guidance, NPS, and technology platforms.
• Two and a half years at Pendo.
• Previous experience as CEO of a consulting company focused on product development.
• Founder and CEO of an audio-video content management startup.
• Experience in inventory management for bars and nightclubs.

Transition from CEO to SVP

• Adjustment from being the top decision-maker to reporting to someone else.
• Importance of understanding the role and dynamics within a larger team.
• Initial struggle with impostor syndrome, relieved through support and encouragement from colleagues.

Importance of Company Values

• Pendo’s values include: Be Bold, Manically Focus on the Customer, Win as a Team, etc.
• Values help guide decision-making and build a thriving environment for team success.
• Personal alignment with company values was a key factor in Brian’s decision to join Pendo.

Using Values to Guide Actions

• Values are used to ensure decisions align with company objectives.
• Recognition systems like Pendo Pank to celebrate adherence to values.
• Values influence promotion and recognition processes.

Mission and Vision

• Mission: To improve the world’s experience with software.
• A mission drives the company forward and aligns with new technologies and markets.

Product Principles

• Serve as guideposts for product development.
• Strong opinions held loosely, allowing for evolution with new data and insights.
• Shifted focus towards outcomes rather than solely on user experience.

Team Dynamics and Learning

• Diverse teams create better products and encourage continuous learning.
• Importance of external communities for sharing ideas and gaining new perspectives.

Advice for Product Managers

• Build a supportive network to thrive and overcome challenges.
• Focus on activities and teams that provide energy and passion.

Key Advice

• Fall in love with the customer’s problem, not just the solution.
• Keep revisiting and understanding customer pain points to ensure product relevance.

Conclusion

• Recap of the discussion and acknowledgment of the importance of aligning personal and organizational values.
• Acknowledgement of the role community and continuous learning play in sustaining product excellence.