#126: The Art of Tech Adoption, Issues of Mini-CEO PM's, and the Human Element in Business w/ Jason Monberg, CEO of Presence

I recently spoke with Jason Monberg (LinkedIn Here), a seasoned tech entrepreneur and product leader. Our discussion covered a lot of ground, from navigating the tech industry to evolving roles in product management and the importance of continuous learning.

Listen now on Apple and Spotify.

Here’s what really stood out to me:

Actionable Takeaways

Table of Contents

✅ Rethinking Product Management Roles

✅ The Power of Team Chemistry

✅ Embracing Continuous Learning

✅ Simplifying Technology Adoption

✅ Rethinking Product Management Roles

We dove into the actual role of a product manager, debunking the myth that they should act like CEOs of their products. Jason explained how the essence of effective product management lies in influence and collaboration rather than authoritarian control.

Takeaway: Influence is Key

"Ultimately you have to get a team oriented around a vision and they have to buy in on their own. You can't force them to..."

-Jason Monberg

Action Tip:

👉 Build a collaborative atmosphere where team members feel heard. Your job is to have a vision and sell it.

👉 If you can’t sell it, return to the drawing board; don’t promise things to the leadership team of customers that you can’t sell internally. 👉 If you can’t sell it, you may not be the right person for that role. Product Managment is a leadership position. Make sure you make sure you are pointing everyone is the right direction.

✅ The Power of Team Chemistry

Our talk emphasized the importance of team chemistry and dynamics. Successful projects often hinge on how well team members communicate and work together rather than just the tech stack they use.

Takeaway: Foster Team Cohesion

"If the chemistry with the leadership of the product management team isn't spot on, that's always going to be a mess."

-Jason Monberg

Action Tip: 👉 Keep tabs on team dynamics and encourage open communication to ensure everyone is moving in the same direction.

✅ Embracing Continuous Learning

Continuous learning came up as a must for staying competitive in tech roles. Jason highlighted the importance of viewing yourself like a professional athlete, always training and upskilling for those pivotal moments.

Takeaway: Keep Learning

"Think about yourself as an elite athlete... take pride in yourself no matter what you're doing."

Jason Monberg

Action Tip: 👉 Make it a habit to explore new skills and tech platforms weekly. Staying informed helps keep you agile and relevant.

👉 Read “Chop Wood, Carry Water” to learn more about this philosophy.

✅ Simplifying Technology Adoption

We discussed the balance between tech adoption and business needs. Sometimes, the best tech decisions involve simplifying rather than complicating your processes.

Takeaway: Simplify for Success

"I'm excited to see a simplification of technology... You don't need all the technology all the time."

-Jason Monberg

Action Tip:

👉 Review your tech setup regularly to streamline operations and align them more closely with business goals.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.wayofproduct.com