The Twenty Minute VC (20VC): Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch 20Product: Product Secrets Behind Uber and Opendoor | How AI Changes the Role of the PM & The Product Development Process | How to Hire the Best Product Teams & What No One Does That Everyone Should Do with Brian Tolkin
260 snips
Feb 7, 2025 Brian Tolkin, Head of Product at Opendoor and former Uber executive, shares his insights on product management. He discusses his experience launching Uber Pool in China, emphasizing the balance between local adaptation and user needs. Tolkin explores how AI is redefining the role of product managers and the importance of agility in product development. Key topics include prioritization strategies, the balance between data and gut instinct in decision-making, and effective sprint management techniques for high-performing teams.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Chengdu Launch
- Brian Tolkin recalls launching UberPool in Chengdu, amidst technical difficulties with the Chinese data center.
- Launching during rush hour added pressure, but the team managed to launch successfully after an almost all-nighter.
Product Fundamentals
- Good product management involves understanding the core components of your product and how they interact.
- In China, the lack of good mapping data like Google Maps made creating efficient matches for UberPool challenging.
Cultural Nuances in Design
- Acknowledge cultural differences when designing products for different markets.
- Sleek, minimalist design might not resonate in markets like China, which prefer bolder aesthetics.