Ladybug Podcast The Hard Parts Of Engineering Management
Nov 3, 2025
Engineering management can be surprisingly tough beneath the surface. It involves making challenging decisions and navigating emotional landscapes. The hosts discuss the struggle of staying technical while managing, the delicate balance of handling stakeholder expectations, and the importance of giving constructive feedback. Isolation in leadership is also tackled, alongside strategies for managing mental health. Listeners gain insight into the realities of promotions, career growth, and the necessity of self-care in high-pressure roles.
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Early Manager Onboarding Isn’t Instant Impact
- Joining a new company often means your role is primarily to learn, not immediately deliver measurable outputs.
- Managers should expect lengthy onboarding and reduced perceived productivity early on.
Redefine What Productivity Looks Like
- Reframe productivity for engineers: meetings, RFCs, and planning are valid outputs, not just closed tickets.
- Teach your team what high-level contributions look like and celebrate them.
Be Intentional About Staying Technical
- Intentionally decide how technical you must remain as a manager and schedule time to stay current.
- Ask technical questions early and get comfortable being the tiebreaker with enough context.