

No Hacks: Future-proofing your career in the age of AI
Slobodan (Sani) Manić
Work is changing quickly, and AI is at the center of that shift. For many professionals, it raises tough questions: How do I stay relevant? What skills should I build? How do I make sense of the changes ahead?No Hacks is about helping you adapt with confidence. In each episode, host Slobodan Manic speaks with leaders from different fields about the real impact of AI on their industries and what it means for people working in them. The conversations are practical, grounded, and focused on the long term, offering clarity, strategies, and perspectives to help you future-proof your career without shortcuts.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 30, 2025 • 8min
[SHORT] Break Free from Amazon: The Step-by-Step Guide to Your DTC Journey with Dušan Popović
In this episode of No Hacks Snacks, e-commerce and Shopify expert Dušan Popović discusses how successful Amazon sellers can establish their own direct-to-consumer (DTC) channels. Dušan emphasizes the importance of building a brand independent of Amazon and offers practical steps to set up a Shopify store. He addresses challenges like marketing outside of Amazon's ecosystem, identifying target audiences, using platforms like Google Ads for keyword testing, and adapting marketing strategies. The conversation highlights the long-term benefits of direct customer communication and maintaining control over the business.---If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with a friend!

Jan 29, 2025 • 9min
[SHORT] How Experimentation and CRO Will Evolve in 2025 with Jonny Longden
In this No Hacks Snacks interview, Jonny Longden, Chief Growth Officer at Speero, talked about the evolution of digital optimization and experimentation, discussing how businesses need to shift their mindset by 2025 and beyond. Here are some key takeaways:✨ Redefine experimentation beyond A/B testing: Experimentation shouldn't be limited to just A/B tests and software; it should be a mindset applied across all areas of a business.🧪 Learning from science: Even when controlled experiments aren't possible, using the best available evidence is critical. This is the essence of a scientific approach.🌌 Goal-centric approach: Begin with clear goals and objectives. Think about the 'man on the moon' analogy where experiments make sense only within the context of well-defined goals.🔧 Tools should support strategies, not define them: Don’t start with tools or data. First, figure out your strategic intentions for learning and growth, then find the tools that support your mission.Listen to the full interview below and don't forget to subscribe for future episodes!---If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with a friend!

Jan 21, 2025 • 8min
[SHORT] Level Up Your Life with Digital Optimization Tactics with Amrdeep Athwal
Just dropped a new Snack interview, and this one’s packed with insights from Amrdeep Athwal, someone who’s serious about optimization. Here’s a little taste of what we chatted about:1️⃣ How do we use digital optimization in our everyday lives?2️⃣ What’s the best way to boost your running performance using data?3️⃣ Can regular tasks be turned into cool optimization projects?4️⃣ How is running the ultimate metaphor for digital marketing?5️⃣ How do we know if our optimization efforts are actually working?If you're into making things work better, faster, and smarter, this chat is for you.---If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with a friend!

Jan 20, 2025 • 8min
[SHORT] The Do's and Don'ts of Successful Employer Branding with Ben Labay
Welcome to No Hacks Snacks, your go-to series for short-form insights from innovators and industry leaders. In this episode, we look into the crucial role of employer branding with Ben Labay, CEO of Speero. We explore why a compelling employer brand is essential for attracting the right talent and fostering a vibrant company culture. Don't forget to subscribe for more episodes like this!The Importance of Employer BrandingEmployer branding is more than just a buzzword—it’s a powerful strategy to distinguish companies in a competitive marketplace. Ben LeBay emphasizes that an effective employer brand attracts "missionaries" rather than "mercenaries." These individuals align with the company’s mission and values, contributing to a cohesive and dedicated workforce. By crafting a brand narrative that resonates with both internal and external audiences, companies can drive meaningful engagement and long-term loyalty.Avoiding Common PitfallsNavigating the landscape of employer branding can be tricky, and there are common pitfalls to avoid. One such mistake is stifling employee voices on platforms like LinkedIn. Ben shares that companies should encourage employees to share their experiences and insights, thereby enhancing the organization’s authenticity and reach. Open communication amplifies brand reputation, fostering a network of advocates who genuinely represent the company.Creating a Culture of EngagementThe key to successful employer branding lies in creating an authentic and engaging environment. Ben suggests a "platform approach" where interaction and contribution become natural and unforced processes for employees. By simplifying these processes, companies empower employees to engage meaningfully with the brand, turning them into natural ambassadors and advocates.---If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with a friend!

Jan 17, 2025 • 7min
[SHORT] Future-proofing CRO: From Landing Pages to Product with Veronika Morozová
In this short episode, I talked to Veronika Morozová, product manager and organizer of Berlin's first CRO meetup - CROdashians (how about that for a fun name!). Veronika shared her insights on the future of conversion rate optimization (CRO) and its anticipated evolution towards a product-centric and MarTech-focused approach. We got into how CRO's integration into product management enhances the entire user journey, creating a better overall experience. Veronika also discussed the potential role of AI in CRO and contemplates whether the term 'CRO' might be replaced by 'experimentation manager.' Join us for a conversation about the future of CRO and its impact on marketing, product development, and customer experience.---If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with a friend!

Jan 16, 2025 • 7min
[SHORT] Unlocking the Secret to AI-Powered Copywriting with Chris Silvestri
Chris Silvestri, a B2B SaaS copywriting expert and host of the Message Market Fit podcast, shares invaluable insights into AI-driven copywriting. He emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs for creating empathetic content. Common pitfalls in AI use are discussed, along with the necessity of customer interaction for relevant outputs. Silvestri introduces his PATH framework to enhance copywriting and explores the evolving future of AI in B2B marketing, ensuring quality over quantity in content creation.

Jan 15, 2025 • 8min
[SHORT] Navigating the Future of Product Development: Opportunities for Solopreneurs with Iqbal Ali
As we step into 2025, the world of product development is undergoing a seismic transformation. Join Sani and Iqbal in this thought-provoking conversation as they dive into the rise of solopreneurship and explore how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping the game. Discover how small teams—or even individuals—are outpacing traditional industry giants by leveraging agility, innovation, and the power of niche markets.In this video, you’ll hear Iqbal’s insightful take on how AI is breaking down barriers, enabling solopreneurs to build and iterate products faster than ever before. Sani shares his own experiences with Coheseo, highlighting how technology empowers entrepreneurs to tackle challenges once reserved for large corporations. From streamlining mundane tasks like authentication to filling the gaps overlooked by tech giants, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.🚀 What You'll Learn:How AI tools are lowering the barrier to entry for innovative product development.Why solopreneurship is becoming a powerful alternative to large corporations.The art of identifying and capitalizing on niche markets left untouched by industry leaders.Real-world examples of how individuals are leveraging technology to innovate and thrive.A glimpse into the exciting possibilities of running multiple ventures simultaneously.About the Guest:Iqbal Ali, a visionary in product development, shares his journey of leveraging AI to innovate and overcome personal knowledge gaps. His story is a testament to the potential of self-driven innovation and the power of technology to transform ambition into reality.👉 Ready to take the reins of your entrepreneurial journey? Watch now and start navigating the future of product development! 💡---If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with a friend!

Dec 18, 2024 • 26min
Aligning Business Goals with OKRs & Experimentation Strategies with Bjarn Brunenberg
In a compelling discussion, Bjarn Brunenberg, Experimentation Lead at TomTom, shares his insights on aligning business goals with OKRs (Objectives and Key Results). He highlights the critical differences between OKRs and KPIs and the common pitfalls to avoid, such as vague objectives. Bjarn also shares lessons from his experimentation failures, including surprising pricing test outcomes. With practical tools like the KPI Tree, he demonstrates how teams can bridge ambitious goals with tangible actions, making this conversation a treasure trove for anyone looking to enhance goal-setting strategies.

Dec 11, 2024 • 44min
Segmentation 101: Demystifying Email Marketing Myths with Tara Dinoski
Unlock the secrets to effective email marketing and smarter audience engagement! In this episode, Tara Dinoski, CEO of Indico Digital, shares practical strategies for making email marketing work without overcomplicating it. Learn how to create meaningful segments (hint: start with customers vs. prospects), why overusing buzzwords and gimmicks won’t get results, and how integrating email with other channels like paid media can be a revenue game-changer.Tara also debunks myths that hold brands back, including the idea that there’s a “perfect” time to send emails or that SMS marketing is always the better choice. Plus, she shares her unique perspective as a digital nomad, balancing client work while traveling the world and building a high-growth agency.Whether you’re just starting out with email or looking to optimize your current strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can apply today. And for fun, we get Tara’s take on the best Greek dishes and the biggest lessons she’s learned from living abroad.What you’ll learn in this episode:The first step to better email segmentationWhy “testing just to test” won’t get resultsThe smartest way to integrate email with other channelsHow to manage client work while living a digital nomad lifestyleSimple strategies to build your email listChapters:0:00 Introduction to Tara Dinoski and Indico Digital0:38 Strangest client call as a digital nomad1:59 How location and time zones affect client relationships3:40 Overcoming fear in email marketing5:18 The basics of segmentation: customers vs. prospects7:28 Real-world insights from segmentation (boots and colors example)9:52 Myths about email marketing: Testing and over-segmentation12:18 SMS vs. email: Costs, myths, and misconceptions15:42 The perfect time to send emails is a myth19:00 Integrating email marketing with paid media22:55 How reviews power smarter email campaigns28:12 Life as a digital nomad: Lessons from Greece and Medellín32:40 Balancing work, travel, and client expectations---If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with a friend!

Nov 20, 2024 • 52min
Bridging Data and Decision-Making: Bhavik Patel’s Take on Analytics
Welcome to No Hacks – the podcast where experimenters and optimizers share their secrets about CRO, experimentation, and mastering analytics to create impact! In this episode, we’re joined by Bhavik Patel, Director of Experimentation and Analytics at Lean Convert and founder of CRAP Talks, a renowned cross-discipline tech meetup. Bhavik brings years of experience leading analytics teams at companies like Hoppin, Moo, and Gusto, and today he dives deep into the art of measurement and its role in driving meaningful change.Bhavik kicks things off by challenging the notion of measuring everything, advocating instead for purposeful tracking to focus on what truly matters. He explains the critical difference between product management and feature management, emphasizing how companies often lose sight of impact by failing to measure effectively. His mantra? “When you measure everything, you measure nothing.” This episode is a masterclass in aligning analytics with real business outcomes.Throughout the conversation, Bhavik shares insights into building and scaling experimentation programs, the challenges of poor data quality, and the importance of connecting product metrics to revenue. He illustrates the transformative power of experimentation, both in business and in personal growth, offering relatable stories and actionable advice. From his experience launching CRAP Talks to helping organizations bridge the gap between teams, Bhavik reveals how measurement serves as the foundation for innovation and accountability.The episode also explores Bhavik’s approach to applying analytics principles to personal life. He discusses how a simple metric tree helped him improve his health and build lasting habits, showcasing the value of measurement in achieving goals beyond work.We wrap up with a fun rapid-fire segment, where Bhavik shares his favorite analytics tools, memorable A/B tests, and even a hilarious CRAP Talks moment. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with practical tips, personal stories, and fresh perspectives on making data-driven decisions that matter.00:00 Welcome to No Hacks01:18 Measuring with Purpose: Bhavik’s Philosophy03:42 From Product Management to Feature Management07:14 Connecting Metrics to Revenue: Why It Matters12:30 Scaling Experimentation Programs and Avoiding Pitfalls16:52 The Impact of Poor Data Quality20:14 Lessons from CRAP Talks and Building Community23:45 Applying Analytics to Personal Growth: Bhavik’s Story28:40 Rapid Fire Questions32:15 Career Advice for Aspiring Experimenters35:20 Closing Thoughts: Measurement as a Path to Impact---If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with a friend!