The Early Career Podcast

Product Management in Tech: Prioritization, Influence, and How AI Is Changing Work (with Corey Salzer)Priyanka Mahankali hosts a special in-person guest episode of the Early Career Podcast with her best friend Corey Salzer, a product manager at the edtech startup ParentSquare who previously worked in software engineering, AWS Solutions Architect, and product management at AWS. Corey explains what product managers do—deciding what to build by working backwards from customers—while influencing engineering, design, sales, marketing, leadership, and customer success, often amid role ambiguity. They discuss asking “why” (including the “five whys”), building trust through communication, transparency, documentation, and mechanisms like shared trackers, and avoiding overpromising by underpromising and overdelivering. Corey shares how product priorities connect to company OKRs, how to learn strategy through managers and internal networking, and the need to balance tactical execution with strategic thinking. They also explore AI’s impact on planning and software delivery, the need for human context, review, and ownership, and advice to embrace AI responsibly while staying curious and open.00:00 Pre-Show Setup01:01 Podcast Intro01:19 Friendship Catch-Up05:25 Meet the Guest06:38 What Product Managers Do08:36 Influence Without Authority14:02 Ask Why Like a Pro16:27 Customer Discovery Tactics20:14 PM Challenges and Priorities21:52 Company OKRs and Strategy23:51 Finding Priorities Internally26:20 Leading Early in Career27:17 Balance Strategy Execution29:54 Prioritizing Stakeholders33:34 Transparency Trust Mechanisms35:14 AI Shifts Workforce38:04 Human Oversight Ownership42:51 Back Another Day45:44 Advice Responsible AI52:05 AI ROI Use Cases54:45 Mindshare Different Views58:27 Closing Advice Farewell

In this episode of the Early Career Podcast, Priyanka Mahankali interviews Urmi Hossain, a finance professional with nearly a decade of experience. Urmi shares her journey from studying international business to finding her passion in finance, particularly in portfolio management. She discusses the challenges of navigating a male-dominated industry, the importance of diversity and representation, and how rejection can lead to personal growth. Urmi emphasizes the significance of mentorship, lifelong learning, and finding a balance between personal and professional life. The conversation also touches on normalizing anxiety and stress, and the impact of journaling on mental well-being. Urmi concludes with valuable tips for career and life success, encouraging listeners to cultivate their passions and seek supportive networks.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:19 Urmi's Journey in Finance05:14 Cultural Adaptation and Experiences in Canada08:11 Passion for Portfolio Management11:04 Lessons from Rejection13:56 Navigating Challenges as a Woman in Finance16:49 The Importance of Diversity and Representation19:33 Building a Supportive Network22:31 Advice for the Younger Generation25:42 The Importance of Support Systems27:17 Defining Success: From Achievement to Impact32:42 Embracing Lifelong Learning37:48 Normalizing Anxiety and Stress44:08 Advice for Career and Life47:18 Find your way (2).mp4

In this episode, Priyanka Mahankali discusses the evolving landscape of work in the tech industry, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changes brought about by AI. She provides actionable insights for early career professionals on how to embrace AI, develop essential skills, and build a strong career foundation. The conversation highlights the need for strong judgment, communication skills, and personal branding in a competitive job market.TakeawaysThe future of work in tech is rapidly changing due to AI.Embracing change and adapting is crucial for career success.AI should be viewed as an assistant rather than a replacement.Early career professionals must focus on impact from day one.Strong judgment and communication skills are essential in tech roles.Building a personal brand and network is more important than ever.Your resume should highlight impact, not just tasks completed.Being T-shaped in skills can enhance career opportunities.Use AI tools to optimize work processes and efficiency.The first five years of your career set the foundation for future success.

In this engaging conversation, Corey and Priyanka explore the intricacies of navigating early career challenges, the impact of friendship on professional growth, and the complexities of imposter syndrome. They delve into the role of a product manager, discussing the unique challenges faced by women in tech and the importance of effective communication and setting boundaries. The discussion highlights the evolving nature of product management and the significance of understanding gender dynamics in the workplace. In this engaging conversation, Corey and Priyanka explore the complexities of navigating difficult conversations in the workplace, understanding systemic biases, and the importance of communication and allyship. They discuss the significance of building trust and deep friendships, emphasizing how these relationships can serve as a support system in both personal and professional realms. The dialogue culminates in valuable advice for the next generation, focusing on empowerment, community, and the importance of taking one step at a time in their careers.Chapters00:00 Introduction 05:59 Friendship and Career Themes11:58 Navigating Early Career Challenges18:02 Imposter Syndrome and Self-Perception25:59 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome34:20 The Role of a Product Manager39:47 Navigating Gender Dynamics in Tech46:23 The Importance of Communication and Allyship52:51 Friendship as a Source of Strength01:11:00 The Importance of Effort in Friendships01:18:08 Building a Supportive Community01:19:58 Advice for the Next Generation01:24:57 Controlling What You Can Control01:29:59 Closing Thoughts and Future Connections

In this episode of the Early Career Podcast, host Priyanka Mahankali delves into the multifaceted impacts of layoffs across various demographics including gender, culture, and immigration status. Priyanka shares her own experience of being laid off and explores how societal conditioning and cultural contexts shape how individuals cope with job loss. She offers practical advice for both men and women on dealing with the emotional consequences of layoffs and highlights the unique challenges faced by immigrants. Priyanka also discusses the broader implications of technological advancements like AI on the job market. Stay tuned for insights on staying relevant in an evolving workforce and an upcoming guest episode featuring an inspiring career journey. For more topics on early career struggles and growth, subscribe and follow along.00:00 Introduction02:44 How Women Experience Layoffs08:50 How Men Experience Layoffs13:19 The Immigrant Experience16:14 Cultural Context and Social Pressure21:43 The Bigger Picture: Technology and Change26:10 Upcoming Guest Episodes

Navigating Layoffs: Personal Stories, Emotional Coping, and Career StrategiesIn this episode of the Early Career Podcast, host Priyanka Mahankali discusses the challenging topic of layoffs. She shares her personal experience, emotional coping mechanisms, and strategic tips to help those affected by layoffs navigate their emotions and prepare for their next career move. Priyanka emphasizes the importance of feeling and accepting one's emotions, building genuine connections, maintaining routines, and finding daily gratitude. She also provides actionable advice on how to effectively use networking and LinkedIn to secure new job opportunities, while presenting oneself confidently in interviews.00:00 Introduction and Overview00:48 Personal Experience with Layoffs01:48 Coping with Emotions04:39 Understanding Layoff Decisions07:06 Taking Care of Yourself11:02 Networking and Job Applications20:44 Interview Tips and Confidence25:18 Conclusion and Final Advice

For free 1:1 sessions, book your meeting slot here: https://calendly.com/priyankamibl501/30min Embracing Feedback: A Guide to Personal and Professional GrowthIn this episode of the Early Career Podcast, host Priyanka Mahankali, currently in freezing Toronto, dives into the crucial topic of feedback. She offers insightful strategies on how to accept, evaluate, and utilize feedback constructively. The episode targets individuals in their early careers, including undergraduates, masters students, and professionals aged 25 to 35. Priyanka emphasizes the importance of not taking feedback personally, sleep on it, evaluating its validity, and responding with curiosity and maturity. She also touches on the psychological aspects of feedback, the role of the amygdala, and the importance of mental health practices. Furthermore, Priyanka explains how feedback can help build stronger relationships at work and develop self-awareness and confidence, ultimately fostering a growth mindset vital for both personal and professional success.00:00 Introduction and Welcome02:24 The Importance of Feedback06:53 Handling Feedback with Emotional Intelligence09:39 Evaluating and Implementing Feedback21:16 Seeking and Valuing Feedback27:47 Feedback in Professional Settings44:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts