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.