In this engaging discussion, Jason Shah, a seasoned product leader with a background at Amazon, Airbnb, and Microsoft, shares his insights on navigating the evolving landscape of Web3. He reflects on the impactful lessons learned from his time at Amazon and emphasizes the importance of strong leadership in fostering team morale and accountability. Jason also explores the metaphor of careers as maps versus ladders, highlighting the value of curiosity and intentional choices. His unique perspective on hiring strategies and career growth in innovative tech environments makes this conversation a must-listen.
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insights INSIGHT
Web3's Current State
Web3 is currently in its strongest position ever, despite the recent downturn.
Growth is not always linear, and Web3 is still seeing significant development and adoption.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Maintaining Morale in Web3
Focus on progress and building to maintain morale during market downturns.
Hire people motivated by the right reasons to weather uncertainty.
insights INSIGHT
Evolving Role of PMs in Web3
Web3 initially required fewer PMs, but this is changing as products mature and competition increases.
Product becomes a key differentiator as the market evolves.
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Inside Apple's Design Process During the Golden Age of Steve Jobs
Ken Kocienda
In 'Creative Selection,' Ken Kocienda offers a detailed look at Apple's software development process during his 15-year tenure at the company. The book focuses on the 'creative selection' process, a method of iterative development through continuous demos and feedback. Kocienda shares stories of his work on key products like the iPhone, iPad, and Safari web browser, and discusses the essential elements of innovation at Apple, including inspiration, collaboration, craft, diligence, decisiveness, taste, and empathy. The book provides insights into the working culture and decision-making processes under Steve Jobs' leadership.
The hard thing about hard things
building a business when there are no easy answers
Ben Horowitz
In this book, Ben Horowitz shares his personal and often humbling experiences in the tech industry to offer essential advice and practical wisdom. He addresses various hard decisions and challenges that business leaders face, such as firing friends, managing company culture, handling layoffs, and making tough strategic decisions. Horowitz emphasizes the importance of honesty, resilience, and adaptability in leadership, drawing from his experiences with companies like Loudcloud and Andreessen Horowitz.
Jason Shah has led product teams at Amazon, Airbnb, Microsoft, and Yammer and currently leads the product team at Alchemy (one of the most important web3 infrastructure companies). In addition, he’s an advisor, investor, and two-time founder. In today’s episode, Jason discusses what it’s like to be a PM in web3, why his role at Amazon made such a big impact on his life and career, what makes a great leader, and how to hire well. He also shares his unique perspective on building a meaningful career and life.
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Lenny's Podcast: Product | Growth | Career 
