Shows
The Startup ExecutiveFrom Comic Book Dreams to Tech Reality with Mike Reynolds of InnovateMapThroughout his childhood, Mike Reynolds had always been fascinated by comic books. He was not just an avid reader; he was also a budding artist, drawing superheroes and creating his own comic books. However, as he grew older, Mike realized that his passion for drawing was more a hobby than a career path.
His fascination for technology and business steered him towards a different path, leading him to pursue a degree in business and computer science at Purdue University. From there, he began his career in the tech industry during the boom of consulting in the late 90...2023-12-141h 07
Savage to SageEntrepreneurial Loneliness and Grit with Mike ReynoldsBeing an entrepreneur brings with it a special brand of loneliness. That’s why it’s incredibly important to create space for advice and support from others who can truly relate. It can sometimes mean the difference between success and failure.To expound on this, I (Daniel) interviewed Mike Reyolds, the CEO and a partner of Innovatemap. Among other pieces of advice, Mike talked about the need for ongoing support and how that fuels the grit it takes to make dreams and concepts a reality.“The loneliness… it’s real. [That’s why] about a fourth of th...2023-11-2942 min
Executive EvolutionLeading by Example: The Power of Equipping Others with Mike ReynoldsWhen Mike Reynolds, CEO of Innovatemap, faced his first formal leadership role, he learned that leading with a mandate doesn't work. Instead, he discovered the power of equipping others and influencing through example. In this episode, Mike shares the mental shift he’s had to make as his company grows. Listen in to learn what it means to lead with your brain by setting direction, goals, and strategies for your team so they can be successful. Along the way, you’ll hear how Mike now derives pride from seeing others be great as he steps away from doin...2023-02-1622 min
Glasslab Podcast12: Innovatemap with Mike ReynoldsIn this episode, we talk to Mike Reynolds, the CEO of Innovatemap about how his career in SaaS allowed him to build a world-class digital design development company. Special Guest: Mike Reynolds.2023-02-0144 min
The Startup ExecutiveWhy Experimentation is More Important than Scale at an Early Stage Startup (with Sara Croft of Innovatemap)What do you think is the best marketing strategy to grow and scale a startup? You probably aren't going to like this, but the hard truth is there is no perfect solution.
Everything can change, and to be able to grow, we need to experiment and change for the better.
In today's episode, we have Sara Croft of Innovatemap, a digital product agency that helps companies of all sizes dream and delivers valuable digital products and services to the market. Sara was the first marketing hire of the startup and paved her way to becoming...2022-12-121h 09
Better ProductHow Product Marketers Lead As Company Quarterbacks with Kimberly Biddings, BIO-key InternationalProduct marketing is at the intersection of many teams in a product company. The work of a product marketer supports the wider product team, sales, marketing, executive stakeholders, and most of all, buyers. It’s for this reason product marketers tend to play a quarterback role, says Kimberly Biddings, VP of Product at BIO-key International. As Kim knows from experience, they’re responsible for not just knowing a product in and out—they have to translate its selling points for others to use. Join Kim and Tina to hear more about the opportunities product marketers can bring to your growin...2022-06-2842 min
Better ProductWhy Your Positioning Should ‘Pick a Fight and Take a Stand’ with Catherine Spence, MicroblinkOne of the fundamental strategies product marketers must lead is positioning. It’s what determines how you’ll talk about your product, your company, and your brand as you scale. So why do so many people get it wrong? Catherine Spence, VP of Global Marketing at Microblink, joins Leanna to share her best lessons on brand and product positioning, from leading marketing at an international company to her own startup, Pomello. If you’re looking to stay in your comfort zone, this isn’t the episode for you. Catherine shows us why we need to use our positioning to pick a f...2022-06-2138 min
Better ProductProduct Marketing’s Essential Purpose with Martina Lauchengco, Author of LOVEDIn today’s world, building a great product isn’t enough. You have to master your go-to-market strategy by telling a story that will leave a lasting impression on your audience. Product marketing gets you there, according to long-time product marketer and Costanoa Ventures partner Martina Lauchengco. Martina is the author of the latest book from the esteemed Silicon Valley Product Group, LOVED: How to Rethink Marketing for Tech Products. Alongside Tina and Leanna, she explores how her career start as a product manager equipped her with the product curiosity and technical competence needed to thrive...2022-06-1437 min
Better ProductTrailer: Unlock Product MarketingProduct marketing is the foundation for better product. It should play a strategic role in your business from day one. It's a product discipline to master and respect—not just a list of jobs to be done. But product marketers continue to struggle with recognition. Because the discipline is still new, the way product leaders think about product marketing is continuously evolving. That’s why Innovatemap’s Tina Hafer and Leanna Adeola are taking over the Better Product podcast for a special series on the power of product marketing. Alongside fellow industry experts, they’ll explore wh...2022-06-0901 min
Product Marketing LifeHow product marketing operates at a digital product agency | Meghan Pfeifer, InnovatemapIn this week's episode of Product Marketing Life, host Mark Assini is joined by Meghan Pfeifer, Senior Product Marketer and Brand Strategist at Innovatemap. The pair discuss the relationship between product design and product marketing, how product marketing operates at a digital product agency, and why Innovatemap has put product marketing and brand on the same team.2022-06-0345 min
Better ProductThe Power of Your PositioningHow you position your product can help you connect with the people who most need it, unlocking rapid growth for your company. But first, you need a solid foundation. Today, Christian and Meghan discuss what product leaders get right vs. wrong when positioning their products. Led by Meghan’s insights in product marketing, we’ll also walk through a process any team can use to find a position that will give you a cutting edge while letting you stay true to who you are. Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter to see the latest in Better...2022-05-3130 min
Better ProductElon Musk, Twitter, and Ego in ProductFor better and for worse, ego follows us all into our work lives. But leaders must pay special attention to what role ego plays in building a product. Sometimes, ego can be the charisma an early-stage founder needs to get attention for what they’re creating. Other times, ego is a roadblock that can lead to ignoring critical perspectives from users and the product team. Using Elon Musk’s Twitter purchase as a case study, today’s show explores what role ego plays in product, when to use it to your advantage, and when to empower others to take charge...2022-05-2433 min
Better ProductWhen It's Time For A Product Glow-UpEverything has to start somewhere. But in product and in life, the beginning tends to be awkward. We have room to grow, and glow, up. The real question isn’t about whether we’ll glow up, but when. Christian & Meghan walk us through their answers from working in UX, product marketing, and brand to help us all find the best moment to embrace the “product glow-up” while staying true to our vision. Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter to see the latest in Better Product, a show part of the Better Product Community powered by Innovatema...2022-05-1732 min
Better ProductHow Product Research Limits Uncertainty and Helps Us Face Our FearsProduct research is a discipline that’s transformed in recent years. The days of waterfall testing are over. Today, research is happening at every stage of a product’s life cycle, and there are more tools than ever before to help. But how do product teams stay focused on what truly matters? How do we single out real insights from an outpouring of data? Christian & Meghan unpack their lessons learned about product research and examine how the field has evolved. They’ll also explain why research isn’t actually about finding answers; it’s about limiting uncertainty. Follow...2022-05-1025 min
Better ProductExperience-Driven Products for Relationship Wellness with the Founders of OursToday we’re talking about love—but not in the way you think. We’re looking at the intersection of product and a timeless human experience: falling in, and out, of love. Forget couples counseling as you know it. Ours co-founders Liz Earnshaw, Jessica Holton, and Adam Putterman are using their relationship wellness platform to reduce stigma and build “software for love.” In conversation with Christian & Meghan, the Ours founders will help you cherish the couple experience (and building great products) all over again. For more insights on how product is shaping modern health and wellness, re...2022-05-0337 min
Better ProductMessaging Mix-Ups and How to Avoid ThemMessaging is the story we tell about our product. But how do we know if we’re telling the right story? To talk about your product, you need to learn from the audience you serve, while never losing sight of the bigger picture your market provides. Christian & Meghan will share their observations on product messaging best practices and red flags to avoid; plus, they’ll explain why the best messaging is often the simplest. They’ll also attempt to message their own lives, as inspired by quotes from comment section fights and the great Humphrey Bogart. Revisi...2022-04-2637 min
Better ProductHarnessing Fast Feedback for Better Product Marketing with Peep Laja, WynterProduct marketing is an evolving field with much left to define about what product marketers can actually measure and support. Peep Laja founded his company, Wynter, on the belief that product marketers do better work with swift, real-time feedback on their product messaging. In today’s conversation, he explains why taking weeks (or even months) to do critical testing and validation puts your product in a losing position. He’ll also describe how Wynter is helping B2B product marketers get impactful insights on their product’s messaging & positioning, without wasting time on KPIs that keep you looking in the re...2022-04-1937 min
Raw Data By P3 AdaptiveMapping the Road to Innovation, w/ Mike ReynoldsMapping the Road to Innovation, w/ Mike Reynolds On Today’s episode special guest Mike Reynolds defines digital product and the genius behind InnovateMap. Mike explains that businesses must go digital if they touch a consumer or risk losing relevance. While most consumer-facing companies have embraced this tenant, many B2B companies just haven’t accepted this yet and those who have are advancing quicker than ever. Rob and Mike also discuss Covid bonding and the pattern analytics that helped companies ride the storm. Revisiting the past couple of difficult years, the takeaway is clear, Covi...2022-04-121h 03
Better ProductThe Skills You Need To Thrive In ProductOpportunities in product today are seemingly endless. But if you’re new to the industry or looking to break in, it can be hard to know what skills you need to succeed. Many roles don’t have precise requirements, and product itself is continuously evolving. Today, Christian & Meghan will share their takes on the habits and mindsets that will serve product people at any stage of their careers. We’re talking about the impact of good taste, critical thinking, ego vs. insecurity, and how knowledge of other product disciplines can accelerate your own work. Follow us on Lin...2022-04-1239 min
Better ProductHow Great Food & Personalized Perks Support People Ops with Mel Skochdopole, ParkdayIt’s the series finale of Power to the People Ops, and today, we’ve got a real treat. We’re speaking with Mel Skochdopole, co-founder of Parkday—a.k.a. “the Tinder of food.” Using the power of data, Parkday curates personalized workplace meals that are tailored to everyone’s food preferences. As a result, Parkday is saving people ops leaders valuable time and protecting them from the awkward (and potentially damaging) mistake of ordering food someone on their team can’t eat. Meghan and Mel explore how food is a small but powerful way to affect work culture and how...2022-04-0534 min
Better ProductDesigning Work to Fit People with Julie Jeannotte, OfficevibeEmployee engagement is at the core of what keeps people motivated, productive, and happy at work. But unlocking what keeps people engaged is easier said than done. That’s why Julie Jeannotte, senior researcher at Officevibe by GSoft, is on a journey to create a product that measures and responds to engagement. Using pulse surveys and curated conversation starters, Officevibe is measuring human nature with science and creating a space for real talk at all levels of the workplace. Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter to see the latest in Better Product, a show part of t...2022-03-2934 min
Better ProductProductizing Ideas in the Services Industry with Tim Pröhm, VP at the KellyX Digital Innovation LabWith an uptick in challenges like the Great Resignation and remote work, companies who are hiring today must understand people—their users—in order to thrive. Tim Pröhm, vice president at the KellyX Digital Innovation Lab, recognizes this opportunity and is using it to introduce agile product thinking and a significant digital transformation to the 75-year-old recruiting firm Kelly. Kelly impacts thousands of workers around the world each year and is setting the example for how to attract and retain talent at a critical moment. In this episode, Tim shares how his team encourages startup strategy in the enter...2022-03-2236 min
Better ProductThe Future is People Ops with John Wetzel, GatherImagine a world where every person in a company is understood. They have engaging 1:1s with managers where their voices are heard, and consistent opportunities to connect with their peers—whether they work together or not. This is the future people ops products are building; and, it’s the same future John Wetzel is defining as CEO & co-founder of Gather. He explains how people ops is transforming companies, how product leaders in the space can get necessary feedback, and most importantly, how Gather strives to get people ops leaders at early-stage companies “off their islands” to deliver a better employee...2022-03-1527 min
Better ProductSeries Kick-Off: Power To The People OpsMany employers are coming to a huge realization: there’s power in investing in people. But keeping teams happy, organized, and engaged at work can be easier said than done. That’s why in recent years, dozens of digital products have emerged to give rise to the challenge. So-called people operations, or people ops, products exist to give workers better processes that can help them believe in (and stay) at their companies amid challenges like the Great Resignation. In this series of Better Product, we’re exploring how people ops products are one way employers can ensure their teams are se...2022-03-0822 min
Better ProductGrowth Design Is More Than Just Another BuzzwordGrowth design is a powerful concept. It’s how we bring the goals of product marketing into focus and activate those goals through great design. As Christian puts it, it’s about evolving the areas of your product that grow metrics like revenue and users. But too often, growth design is reduced to a buzzword; to make the most of the practice, you have to consider the context in which you’re working. This episode explores what growth design looks like today, what it is not, and how it takes the best of two product disciplines, PMM and UX, to acc...2022-03-0126 minBetter ProductWhat Platform Strategy Can Teach Us About ProductSome of the most popular digital products today, including the world-recognized FAANG stocks, are platforms. They are spaces that facilitate communication, connection, or a specific activity core to your lifestyle or business—and in almost every case, platforms have succeeded so much because they’ve monetized the interactions that happen on them. It’s because of this achievement that many in product strive for the platform model, in what Jonathan Knee describes as “the platform delusion.” To win in product, you actually don’t need a platform; instead, Christian & Meghan explain, you can learn from the way platform leaders think, and a...2022-02-2232 minBetter ProductHow To Know If Your Product Is Creating A New CategoryIn today’s digital product landscape, the possibilities seem endless. We’re watching new products emerge to serve completely new categories—many of which, like web3 and the decentralized internet, have yet to be totally defined. Finding the answers and taking charge of a new product category, Christian and Meghan share in this episode, is up to you as the product leader. And any good journey in category creation starts with thinking about how the product you’re building can set the standard. When done well, your product becomes “the proof” new categories need to survive and thrive. Want to add...2022-02-1522 minBetter ProductHow Community Inspires Product with Sly Tanenbaum, Urvin FinanceOne year ago, an online movement on Reddit led GameStop stock to skyrocket. The moment awakened a widespread conversation about retail investment, meme stocks, and who actually has power over the markets. Now, everyday retail investors are demanding more transparency and education in investing—and they’ve embraced community to get there. Urvin Finance Head of Design Sly Tanenbaum came from that community to his current role building The Terminal, a digital product that will connect investors and provide them with the in-demand resources they need to make smarter decisions. In this episode, Sly walks through the compe...2022-02-0840 minBetter ProductThe Questions To Ask Before Showing Off Your ProductTo show—or not to show—your software is a question we hear a lot working in digital product. It’s not only a big question with many answers, but one with high stakes that ultimately depends on many intersecting parts of your product process. As inspired by a LinkedIn post from Wynter’s Peep Laja, Christian & Meghan unpack the critical decision to show your product to potential users, and all the smaller choices you’ll have to make along the way around your messaging, brand, product usability, and selling potential. Want to add your own take? Write a note or recor...2022-02-0132 minBetter ProductThe Future of Social Media is “Anti-Social Media” Products - Part 2 with Emma Bates, DiemSocial media has been called “the people’s platform.” But for all its benefits to the public, many challenges still exist. Misinformation is widespread, and for women & non-binary users, harassment is a common experience. Emma Bates, the co-founder & CEO of Diem, a “social universe” for women & non-binary people, shares the alternative answer her product is offering to those who want a better experience on social media. As she explores with Christian, much of the answers lie in how we foster empathy online and how we encourage people to “pass their power.” This episode is part 2 of our two-episode exploration of social media...2022-01-2547 minBetter ProductSquare, Block, and the Impact of Your Product NameChanging a company or product name in a rebrand is a big decision. That’s because renames are usually seen as a way to cement a changed identity. But what if we told you that names are only as valuable as what we build around them? We’re exploring the concept through the recent Square-to-Block rename, and what to consider when putting a name to your own product. Want to add your own take? Write a note or record a voice memo, and send it to erica.irish@innovatemap.com to join the conversation. Follow us on...2022-01-1830 minBetter ProductThe Future of Social Media is “Anti-Social Media” Products - Part 1Social media is one of the most popular and well-used kinds of digital products out there—but of course, it’s not without its problems. That’s why we’re talking about a new trend in the social media world, where digital product creators are building alternatives to the Facebooks and Twitters of the world. In these “anti-social media” products, creators are paving the way for a new future and building distinct communities through tech. This episode is part 1 of our two-episode exploration of anti-social media. Listen to part 2 when it releases on Jan. 25. Follow us on LinkedI...2022-01-1131 min
Business of ProductThe Business of Product Finale with Mike Reynolds, CEO of InnovatemapMike Reynolds revisits the big idea behind our show: why the business of product is never just about the product. As the co-founder & CEO of Innovatemap, a full-service digital product agency in Indianapolis and NYC, Mike explores from decades of personal experience what it takes to build a successful product business. Spoiler: Doing so takes so much more than a good product idea. In today’s environment, Mike explains that success hinges on knowing which ideas are worth building a business around. This episode will give you the roadmap you need to make that big decision. Follow us o...2022-01-0615 minBetter Product2021’s Shift To Opportunity-Focused InnovationWe saw a LOT happen in product in 2021. After digital products responded to the immediate problems of 2020, this year, we saw them innovate on unexplored opportunities, build communities, and in some cases, just have fun. Today’s episode brings us Meghan & Christian’s observations from the year, and their predictions about how current trends could continue to show up in 2022. Want to add your own take? Write a note or record a voice memo, and send it to erica.irish@innovatemap.com to join the conversation. Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter to see the latest...2021-12-2127 minBetter ProductProduct Goes Public With Justin Bauer, Amplitude Analytics2021 was the year cookies died, and the year the public started paying more attention to how their data was being used online. These movements also introduced new considerations for product leaders who rely on data to make their digital products better and informed by users. Take it from Justin Bauer, senior vice president of product for Amplitude Analytics. Amplitude went public this fall after expanding as the leading data analytics tool for product managers at GoFundMe, Intuit, and others. Justin shares more about Amplitude’s growth path and how it’s helping product managers find “insight to action” o...2021-12-1429 minBetter ProductMonkeying Around with Product BrandFrom Mailchimp’s humble monkey beginnings to a huge acquisition and SurveyMonkey’s recent rebrand, we’re talking about brand glow-ups & grow-ups in this episode. Consider it a “what not to wear” for brands. Meghan and Christian explain how MailChimp and SurveyMonkey have used their brands to connect with customers. The takeaway? Brand leaders should go all-in on any decision. Email Christian with design questions: christian.beck@innovatemap.com Email Meghan with brand questions: meghan.pfeifer@innovatemap.com2021-09-2125 minBetter ProductShould You Start with Product Brand or Product Design? The Answer Depends.After getting many questions from startup founders about starting with product design vs. product brand, Christian and Meghan take on the debate. Of course, they’re both important, but when you’re tight on cash and talent, which should you prioritize? We won’t spoil their conclusions, but here's a hint: it depends Don’t worry - Meghan and Christian explain exactly what “it depends” on. Whichever path you choose - design or brand - don’t neglect collaboration. Your brand and product need to stay connected as you iterate. Revisit to our conversation wi...2021-09-1418 min
Marketing Today with Alan Hart271: Making Your Product Marketable, Valuable, and Usable with Innovatemap’s Christian BeckChristian Beck is the Executive Partner at Innovatemap, where he focuses on growth strategy and design. He is also the host of the podcast Better Product. While Christian doesn't consider himself a marketer, he and Alan discuss design, user experience, and how marketing is tied closely to his role. Throughout the rest of their conversation they also touch on how technology scale is outpacing human cognition, why that matters, and what making a good product is all about.According to Christian, a “better product is marketable, valuable, and usable.” Since technology is evolving rapidly, companies must...2021-08-0439 min
The Product Design PodcastJon Moore - How to build a career in product designIn this episode of The Product Design Podcast, Seth Coelen interviews Jon Moore, the Product Design Principal at Innovatemap, a digital product agency in Indianapolis, where he leads a team of product designers. He's passionate about design systems, tooling, and helping new designers grow in their craft.During our interview with Jon, you will learn more about how he built his career path to product design and the leadership role he is currently in today. He provides excellent advice and tips, including:Tips for new and aspiring product designersTop two areas to focus on when navigating...2021-07-1300 min
Untold Stories of InnovationImportance of Storytelling for Digital Products with Mike Reynolds of InnovatemapWe speak with Mike Reynolds of Innovatemap about the ways he uses product storytelling to create successful marketing campaigns. Mike discusses the ways all types of products, from simple commodities to technical services, can harness storytelling to communicate with their customers on an emotional level. Mike also gives great advice on the ways leaders can integrate a unifying vision into their organization by utilizing storytelling.
Mike Reynolds LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-reynolds-8594932/
Mike’s BetterProducts Podcast: https://betterproduct.community/podcasts/
For more information, visit our website: https://untoldcontent.com/
You can also find us on Instagram: @untoldcontent2021-06-1431 min
The Sales Vitamin PodcastEpisode 60: Christian Beck - InnovatemapToday's guest on The Sales Vitamin Podcast is Christian Beck. Christian is the Co-Founder and Executive Partner of Growth Strategy & Design for Innovatemap. Innovatemap is a team of experts in digital product research, branding, marketing and design. Christian began his career as a user experience (UX) designer at Autodesk, a top Silicon Valley firm, which set his foundation in and passion for digital products and high-growth tech companies. As a co-founder and Executive Partner, Christian owns revenue growth operations, including sales and marketing. He is also the co-host of Innovatemap’s Better Product podcast and also...2021-06-1427 min
Better ProductAchieving Customer Outcomes Beyond Conversion with Heather Campbell, EtsyConversion is what keeps businesses alive, but to get there we have to back up to the customer outcomes and milestones that lead to conversion. Heather Campbell joins us to share her perspective on the customer journey as a Product Manager at Etsy. We discuss creativity in product management, how to create long-term buyers, and the steps that lead to conversion. And Heather shares Product Managers’ pivotal role in making this possible by fostering collaboration.2021-06-0331 min
Business of ProductPlaying the Game of Business with Jason Becker, RICS Software and DyKnow“Rare and valuable opportunities come to people with rare and valuable skills.” That tidbit comes from Jason Becker, the CEO of RICS Software and DyKnow - two very different, but very successful software companies. Getting there wasn’t a straight shot and it included getting hit with the word “no” from the very start. So Jason went out into the business world, built up his credibility, and made a name for himself. He took the time to learn how to play the whole business game and work with “must-have” products that solve real problems for th...2021-06-0227 min
Better ProductSeries Wrap Up + Series Kickoff: Behind the Product at EtsyThis past series we focused on telling stories of bets gone wrong and the ones that went right, while pulling out the things product leaders from Forbes, Hubspot, Wildbit wish they’d known along the way. While you heard from leaders across the country, we prompted listeners to ask themselves, what big bets are you taking -- or what big bets should you be? As we wrap the series, we’re asking that question again, this time to our newest member of the better product show: Meghan Pfeifer. Take a listen to hear her answer while...2021-05-2509 min
Better ProductContent Experimentation and Its Impact with Alanah Joseph, HubSpotWhen done well, content marketing connects your product to people communicating the value without sharing features. Podcasts are one channel in a strategy, and it’s one many brands are embracing. For Alanah Joseph of HubSpot, the opportunity to invest in content has been foundational to its success. She joins the Big Bets series to announce their newest bet with podcasting while sharing the driving factor behind their recent acquisition of The Hustle.2021-05-1828 minBetter ProductThe Minute: Meet Meghan + Newly Updated Better ProductBetter Product has a new co-host! Meet Meghan Pfeifer, Senior Product Marketer & Brand Strategist at Innovatemap. In this newly updated Better Product, Meghan will bring her perspective of art, product marketing, messaging, and brand to the show...as well as challenge Christian every once in a while. Hear what else is coming to the Better Product feed in this episode of The Minute.2021-05-1303 minBetter ProductFarewell AnnaAnna shares a big announcement with the Better Product Community while she and Christian reminisce on the experience of running the podcast for the last few years.2021-05-1116 min
Better ProductRecognizing Product Strengths with Matt Sniff, Map My CustomersWhat happens when you take your finger off the pulse of your product? Matthew Sniff launched Map My Customers as a gift for his dad, and the app quickly grew in user adoption allowing him to go all in. Little did he know the impact COVID would soon have on his growing startup. While he could have folded under the weight of the market shift, Matt evolved the product to meet the needs of his users, which meant stepping down as CEO to move into a product role. He joins our Big Bets series to sha...2021-05-0425 minBetter ProductThe Minute: The Future of Tik Tok with Ray CaoOne of the guests we're bringing back is from the Big Bets in Product series. In The Minute, Ray Cao, the Managing Director and Global Head of Product Strategy and Operations of Tik Tok, answers Christian's big question about what the future has in store for the social media platform.2021-04-2702 min
Better ProductShifting from Traditional Media to a Digital Product with Nina Foroutan, ForbesWhen you think of Forbes do you think of a digital product? Probably not. Nina Foroutan of Product Development joins the Big Bets in Product series to share how the print form magazine has evolved to build a community using technology and data. More pointedly, what does a Director of Media of a product look like at a 102-year-old media company, and how do they transform from traditional journalism to digital? “We fill the gap between traditional departments at companies. And I think it's really important because you need someone in the room that’s think...2021-04-2020 min
Agents of ChangeWhat innovations helped businesses navigate the pandemic?How can product innovation help your business navigate uncertainty? In 2020, the move to remote work led to a massive increase in innovations and the adoption of new technologies. The question is, how did these transformations help businesses navigate the challenges of 2020? In this episode, Kevin Galang digs into the product innovations of the past year with expert insights from Anna Eaglin, formerly Principal Product Manager at Innovatemap, now Co-Founder and Head of Product at Uncovered, Phil Simon, author of the new book, Reimagining Collaboration, and Grant Peterson, Chief Product Officer at Conga. If...2021-04-1338 min
Better ProductBetting on the Creator Economy with Sahil Lavingia, GumroadWe move so fast here on the show, that we often don’t have the time to look back and reflect. This big bets series reminded us of one of my favorite podcast interviews with Sahil Lavingia, Founder of Gumroad and Funder of shl.vc. He joined the show in August of 2019, to share the story of bringing his company Gumroad back from the brink of failure, laying off 75% of the staff, and building a product hyper-focused on value, not growth. Since then we’ve seen Sahil take many bets -- the big one? Embracing what...2021-04-1318 minBetter ProductThe Minute: What is a growth team and how can PM evolve?Last June, we did a series on product-led growth because it’s still a pretty ambiguous and misunderstood term. While we sought to define it better, it’s still a topic on many companies' minds, specifically around how to structure your team. Blake Bartlett, Partner at OpenView, and Kyle Lacy, CMO at Lessonly, discuss the impact PLG has on an organization, and how it's impacting the way teams are structured. 2021-04-0804 minBetter ProductThe Minute: Strategizing Growth OpportunitiesPrianka Rayamajhi of Pinterest joins The Minute to challenge one key message: growth design is for short-term gains. Listen in as she shares how to strategize for long-term goals while building in opportunities for experimentation.2021-04-0605 min
Better ProductChanging the Way Users Experience Ads with Ray Cao, TikTokWhen you think of TikTok, what comes to mind? Dancing. Lip Singing. Viral content. Ray Cao is the Managing Director and Global Head of Product Strategy and Operations at Tik Tok. He spent six and a half years helping to build Google Shopping before helping TikTok break out in Southeast Asia. With his robust background in advertising, Ray’s a perfect fit to help the short-form video platform take on its next bet “providing the cutting edge product to business partners” through advertisement opportunities. “So even though it's an advertising business model, we're still ser...2021-03-3035 min
Better ProductOutcomes Over Outputs with Kelly Watkins, CEO of AbstractWe can all agree on one thing: 2020 shook everything up. As a result, we see people and companies making big bets across the board, both professionally and personally. Kelly Watkins bet on leaving her role as the VP of Marketing at Slack to take on the role of CEO at Abstract. In her new role, she’s taking another bet moving from design outputs to outcomes with the launch of Abstract Notebooks. Why make these bets? Hear her conversation with Christian Beck. 2021-03-2328 min
Better ProductPeople Over Profit with Natalie Nagele, CEO & Co-Founder of WildbitYou can grow a profitable company while prioritizing people. Sometimes that means killing off a product. At least that’s what Natalie Nagele, Co-founder and CEO of Wildbit, believes. And for the past 20 years of building products, this bet made early on remains true. Wildbit is behind popular products, like Beanstalk and Postmark. In this conversation, Natalie shares how they decided to kill off a profitable product, why passion is the key to success, and how above all else, culture drives innovation.2021-03-1834 min
Better ProductSeries Kickoff: How to know when to hold 'em, when to fold 'emWe all know the adage, “go big or go home.” The same rings true in the product world, where it’s full of big bets. What bets were made? How were they decided? What turns some products into household names while others fail? That’s what our Big Bets in Product series will cover. You’re going to hear from product leaders from well-known brands like Hubspot, Slack, Wildbit, Abstract, and Forbes. As you consider the series, ask yourself, what big bets are you taking -- or what big bets should you be? Join the serie...2021-03-1602 minBetter ProductThe Minute: Design Your MVP on a Shoestring Budget with Madelin WoodsFounders need to deliver elevated design to stay in touch with users, and it can be done on a shoestring budget. On The Minute, Madelin Woods, CEO and Founder of Walden, breaks down the purpose of the MVP and how to maximize it for evolving your product. 2021-03-0907 min
Better ProductBetter Product LAUNCH: ClusterTruckWhat’s worse than ordering food for delivery and it showing up cold and soggy? For ClusterTruck it’s a problem they set out to solve as America's first vertically integrated, delivery-only kitchen. On this Better Product Launch, Brian Howenstein, VP of product at ClusterTruck, shares how they’ve revolutionized food delivery by removing the middleman of third-party delivery apps. While ClusterTruck is a restaurant, it’s also a software company enabling its competitive advantage. Brian shares how they’ve handled product growth based on geographical location while highlighting what the future for their tech looks like. 2021-03-0233 minBetter ProductThe Minute: Dave Gerhardt on Building an AudienceWhat comes first the product or the audience? For Dave Gerhardt, formerly CMO of Drift, now CMO for Privy, the audience. In The Minute, Anna and Christian are joined by Mike Reynolds, CEO of Innovatemap to talk about how to build an audience before you launch a product. With his experience, Mike provides insight on how to approach building an audience first while creating momentum.2021-02-2509 min
Better ProductSeries Wrap-Up: How to Use Data with Christian and AnnaData is often a complicated topic wrapped around confusing jargon and direction on how to analyze it effectively. Our series on how to use data provides a narrative on the subject, highlighting organizations thinking differently from the implications AI has to why your gut has to guide more than just the vision. The wrap-up episode pulls out key takeaways from the guests featured in the series, including Kat Kennedy from Degreed, Marieke McCloskey from Humu, Dennis Mortenson with x.ai, and Kendra Clarke, sparks & honey. Series Takeaways: Understanding data is an evol...2021-02-2307 minBetter ProductThe Minute: Sara Mauskopf on Product-Market FitHow do you know when you have a product-market fit? Sometimes the community tells you. Sara Mauskopf, founder of Winnie, a product and community for parents. In The Minute, Anna and Christian reflect on the conversation and discuss the importance of focus to achieve product-market fit, the community’s role in Winnie’s growth, and how sometimes the biggest obstacle for any startup is simply patience.2021-02-1806 min
Better ProductThe Power of Democratizing Data with Kendra Clarke, sparks & honeyLeaning into complexity when it comes to product is often the roadmap less traveled. Yet, for Kendra Clarke Senior Vice President Data Science & Product Development at sparks & honey, it's the road she’s on. From her lens, building a platform that supports complexity requires a different way of thinking for both the team behind it and the users it’s for. As the conversation unfolds, Christian and Anna get Kendra’s insights on the bias inherent in data. While the objective is a platform pulling in different viewpoints and perspectives, for this better product it’s about embracin...2021-02-1632 minBetter ProductThe Minute: Twitter - Breaking Down Product RebrandTwitter recently announced their rebrand, but don't worry the bird lives on. What can we learn from this iconic product? In The Minute, Christian invites Meghan Pfeifer Senior Brand Designer and Product Marketer of Innovatemap to discuss the Twitter rebranding strategy. You’ll hear how to think about product rebrands and how to apply it.2021-02-1109 min
Better ProductWhat Founders Need to Know About Data with Dennis Mortensen, x.aiThe most likely outcome when launching a startup is failure. How do you know when to try anyway? For Dennis Mortensen, CEO and Founder of x.ai, it’s not the data. It’s not the idea. It’s the pain you’re solving for that will allow you to propel forward, even when the statistics are stacked against you. As the How to Use Data series continues, he provides the Better Product community with a word of caution to anyone building a data-driven startup. 2021-02-0931 min
Invest in SqftEpisode 77: Bringing Tech Ideas To Life Through Digital Products with Mike ReynoldsToday's guest of Pass the Secret Sauce is Mike Reynolds. He is the CEO and founder of Innovatemap, a digital product agency in Indianapolis. The team helps founders and innovators build the product vision they believe in. In addition to building award-winning digital products, Innovatemap launched the Better Product Community and the Better Product Podcast to create a space for product leaders to connect. In this episode we discuss: His first exposure in entrepreneurship [5:10] The turnaround in his professional career [6:35] Twelve things you need to do to run your own company [8:12] What is Innovetemap and what...2021-02-0831 minBetter ProductThe Minute: Ade Olonoh on the Power of the MVPRarely will a person have experienced almost every role in the product life cycle, but this isn’t the case for this featured guest. In this episode of The Minute, Anna and Christian revisit one of their most unique conversations with entrepreneur and investor Ade Olonoh. When it comes to product, Ade has seen it all from building, overseeing, and is now investing. Hear how ideas come to fruition, and how Ade built Formstack, his first company, in just four weeks.2021-02-0407 min
Better ProductGoing from Product Focused to User-Centric with Marieke McCloskey, HumuOften we approach ideas and products without a full understanding of the users. How do we focus on the users first instead of the product? “You can validate bad ideas done well, but you can't really tell whether the idea itself was good without research.” Christain Beck In the conversation with Marieke McCloskey, Lead UX Researcher at Humu, we break down the misconceptions many founders have about research while sharing ways to maximize its impact earlier in the process.2021-02-0226 minBetter ProductThe Minute: Kyle LacyIn this episode, Anna and Christian revisit one of their first episodes with Kyle Lacy, now Chief Marketing Officer for Lessonly. At the time of this recording, he was the VP of Marketing, and he shared how Lessonly’s now pervasive brand came to be. In today’s The Minute episode, you’ll hear their conversation discussing the role brand played in Lessonly’s ability to differentiate from other software companies.2021-01-2805 min
Better ProductThe Competitive Advantage of Data with Kat Kennedy, Chief Experience Officer, DegreedOn this episode of Better Product, Christian and Anna are joined by Kat Kennedy, Chief Experience Officer at Degreed, a learning experience platform that provides a better, smarter, faster way to develop and share your team's skills. As the conversation unfolds, Kat explains why you have to be intentional about what you’re trying to solve and how looking at numbers is never enough. Along the way, you’ll learn how you can use data to create a competitive advantage. To connect with other product professionals and gain exclusive access to additional resources head over to b...2021-01-2629 minBetter ProductThe Minute: Marty CaganIf you’re in the product world, the name Marty Cagan is most likely one you’re familiar with. He’s a pioneer, a leader, and author of INSPIRED. We had him on the show in 2019 and he had a lot to say about product culture, which left Anna and Christian with a lot to talk about right after his interview. In this Minute episode you’ll hear their conversation discussing what it means to be a real product manager, what it looks like to have a product culture in your organization and how all that translates to impact...2021-01-2509 minBetter ProductThe Minute: Product Hierarchy Webinar AnnouncementToday’s episode is a little different because instead of revisiting the past, we want to highlight something coming up that our listeners might want to know more about. Today, Tina Hafer of Innovatemap joins Better Product to talk about the upcoming webinar she’s hosting on January 26. The topic is a foundational aspect of product marketing: product hierarchies. Whether you’re thinking about positioning, presentation decks, or even onboarding, product hierarchies can give you a common language and framework to refer to as you figure out how to market and sell your product. Interest...2021-01-2203 min
Better ProductSeries Kickoff: How to Effectively Use DataWhat we’ve set out to discuss in our newest series is the real power of data. The issue in today’s world isn’t access to data - rather - it’s this feeling of “more is more.” Yet, the power of data doesn’t come from more. It comes from being able to tell a story with it. The reality of data is that most people collect it but don’t know what to do with it. What you’ll learn in this series has little to do with collecting data, instead, it’s taking a look at maximizing i...2021-01-2103 min
Better ProductBetter Product LAUNCH: GuideWhat if Masterclass and TikTok had a B2B baby? The result would be Guide, a video-based learning platform focused on bite-sized video content. In this episode of Better Product LAUNCH, Christian sits down with Tim Salau, CEO and Co-Founder of Guide, for a conversation about why work matters, and the importance of exercising more control over our career. Tim and his team founded Guide as a life-skills training platform for highschool students. Then COVID happened. As the conversation unfolds, you’ll hear how Guide pivoted into an enterprise-focused B2B learning and talent development app...2021-01-1922 min
Better ProductBetter Product LAUNCH: PendoIn this episode of Better Product LAUNCH, Christian and Anna sit down with Todd Olson, CEO and Founder at Pendo, an online tool to help companies drive software adoption. Every product has a handful of “aha” moments–critical activities that justify the product’s existence when the customer experiences meaningful use. For Todd, the key to product-led growth is narrowing the gap between a user’s first exposure to the product and their discovery of that “aha” moment. In this conversation, you’ll hear Todd discuss the critical element that can make or break your customers’ experi...2021-01-1240 min
Better ProductBetter Product LAUNCH: Modern HealthIn this episode of Better Product LAUNCH, Christian and Anna sit down with Alyson Watson, CEO at Modern Health, the first preventive mental health solution for employers. As a collegiate athlete, Alyson noticed there were coaches available for everything from weight training to nutrition and other physical requirements, but none devoted to mental health. Digging deeper, she discovered a need for a proactive and preventative approach to mental wellbeing, inspiring her to launch Modern Health. In this conversation, you’ll hear Alyson discuss her mission to make mental healthcare tools accessible to everyone.2021-01-0523 min
Better ProductBetter Product On: 2020 Year in ReviewThe digital product space has been permanently affected by the events of this year. In what ways? In this episode, we’re diving deep into the changes that are likely to carry over into 2021. To wrap up this year, Community Manager Ellie McCandless joins this episode of Better Product ON to flip the script on hosts Christian and Anna. As Ellie asks the questions curated from the community, Christian and Anna break down the lessons they’ve learned from our guests and recap their favorite moments hosting Better Product.2020-12-2926 min
Better ProductBetter Product LAUNCH: Lex Kell Rakowski is the CEO and Founder of Lex, the lo-fi, text-centered social app that connects queer community. In this episode of Better Product LAUNCH, she sits down with Anna to discuss how she went from a photo director to a startup founder. Kell’s fascination with personal ads and lesbian culture were the sparks inspiring her to create a social network dedicated to the queer community. As she shares her passion for creating a special product with a high-quality user experience, you’ll hear how Lex evolved from a vibrant Instagram community to a venture-backed app.2020-12-2224 min
Better ProductBetter Product LAUNCH: RealIn this episode of Better Product LAUNCH, Christian and Anna sit down with Ariela Safira, Founder and CEO at Real, a venture-backed mental healthcare company based in New York City. Mental healthcare is full of negative stigma, and people often seek solutions after a traumatic event or as a last resort. For Ariela and her team, the mission is to not just normalize therapy rather celebrate it. As Ariela shares her passion for improving mental healthcare, you’ll hear how Real integrates empathy, design, and progressive care to build an end-to-end mental healthcare experience.2020-12-1546 min
Better ProductBetter Product LAUNCH: CircleIn this episode of Better Product LAUNCH, Christian and Anna sit down with Andrew Guttormsen, the Co-founder of Circle, the modern community platform for creators. Many platforms claim to build community, but most are just building an audience focused on the creator. With Circle, the focus is on the members and the interaction. As Andrew shares his story, you’ll hear how building a community differs from an audience, and how integrating a community into your product impacts your customer’s experience.2020-12-0828 min
Off the CircleMichael Reynolds of InnovateMap: How Businesses Can Accelerate Their Digital Transformation Due to the PandemicOn this episode, we interview Michael Reynolds of InnovateMap. His firm's expertise has been in assisting businesses to develop digital products and experiences. The pandemic has forced a transition of virtually every business to go digital with every aspect of their business. Whether it's their marketing efforts where in-person meetings and conferences have shut down, sales processes and meetings via online video conferencing, or even remote delivery of services... businesses have been forced to adapt and adopt new methods if they hope to survive.
Michael's firm is proficient at researching behaviors and developing products and roadmaps that meet the markets...2020-12-0334 min
An Indianapolis Business Podcast: Off the CircleMichael Reynolds of InnovateMap: How Businesses Can Accelerate Their Digital Transformation Due to the PandemicOn this episode, we interview Michael Reynolds of InnovateMap. His firm's expertise has been in assisting businesses to develop digital products and experiences. The pandemic has forced a transition of virtually every business to go digital with every aspect of their business. Whether it's their marketing efforts where in-person meetings and conferences have shut down, sales processes and meetings via online video conferencing, or even remote delivery of services... businesses have been forced to adapt and adopt new methods if they hope to survive.
Michael's firm is proficient at researching behaviors and developing products and roadmaps that...2020-12-0334 min
Better Product[Re-Release] Building a Meaningful Relationship between User and Brand with Yaw AningIn this episode of Better Product LAUNCH, Christian and Anna sit down with the founder of Malomo, a shipment tracking platform helping e-commerce brands generate more revenue and loyalty by turning their shipment tracking experience into a marketing channel. As our first guest on the LAUNCH series, Yaw provides a rich perspective unearthing the meaning behind the name while highlighting the importance of the overall brand experience. To register for the speaker series visit betterproduct.community/speaker-series2020-12-0239 min
Better ProductBONUS: The Impact of Design on Business Strategy with Alastair Simpson, VP of Design at DropboxInstead of only asking the designers to understand the ins and out of the business, when do we ask the business to understand design? In this episode, Alastair Simpson, VP of Design at Dropbox, points out that design leaders are also business leaders, noting what they need to understand about the company to secure a seat at the executive table. He also challenges the notion that it’s a one-way street, opening up the conversation to challenge businesses to understand the impact of design. To hear from leaders like Alastair while tapping into the power of a...2020-12-0131 min
Better ProductProduct Brand Series Wrap-upBrand is not just a logo, website, or color palette. It’s how your end-user experiences everything related to your company. On this episode, Christian and Anna revisit the highlights from the Product Brand series recapping the most important lessons learned. To engage more with the Better Product community, join our speaker series featuring experts from previous episodes. You can register by going to betterproduct.community/speakerseries 2020-11-2408 min
Better Product[Re-Release] Defining Product-Led Growth with Blake Bartlett, OpenView Venture PartnersBlake Bartlett from OpenView Venture Partners has been on the frontlines of this term helping define product-led growth and advocating for product companies to lean into the methodology. In the conversation with Blake, you can expect to understand the term in more detail while breaking down the barriers for implementation. When it comes to the term product-led growth there are many misconceptions holding product professional back from embracing the approach. Find out for yourself over the next few episodes as we hone in on what it really means to have product-led growth. Connect with Chris...2020-11-1831 min
REWORKBetter Product with Adam Stoddard Better Product is a podcast by Innovatemap, a digital product agency. We are playing their episode featuring Basecamp's marketing designer, Adam Stoddard, who joins them to talk about Basecamp's design philosophy and the thought process behind the look of HEY.com. Show NotesAdam Stoddard on Twitter - 1:04Basecamp co-founder and CTO David Heinemeier Hansson discussed Superhuman in a previous Rework episode - 12:20"Superhuman is Spying on You" by Mike Davidson - 13:23HEY's pixel tracker blocking feature - 13:33 2020-10-2726 min
The ROI PodcastWhich organizational leadership model is right for your business? | Ep. 143Whether you're starting a brand new business or you're looking to restructure your organizational chart, which leadership model is right for you? On this episode, we sit down with the CEO of Innovatemap Mike Reynolds, who takes us behind the leadership curtain of his organization and shares why a mentorship model works best for them.----Do you have a question? Looking to get help on a business decision? Know a great guest for our show? Email roipod@iupui.edu so we can help your organization make better business decisions.2020-07-2733 min
The Digital Workplace PodcastMike Reynolds - Creating a highly innovative digital culture is hardInnovatemap runs on pure innovation. So how do you keep collaboration at its height without whiteboards and windows? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.2020-07-2327 min
Without a RoadmapAnna Eaglin, Principal Product Owner at InnovatemapThis week on the podcast, Cam and Yonas welcome Anna Eaglin to the show! Anna works at Innovatemap as a Principal Product Owner, and she chats with the boys about her transition into product from UX, the ins and outs of product at Innovatemap, and what it's like being the host of the Better Product Podcast!2020-07-1643 min
Gut + ScienceGetting Stuff Done! | Mike ReynoldsMike Reynolds is the CEO of Innovatemap, a digital product agency helping companies dream, design, and deliver digital products and services. In this episode, Mike joins Nikki to share insights on how he's built a culture that innovates constantly and moves fast to get things done. Listen in to hear the unique way team structure affects speed and relationship building. Truth You Can Act On 1. Feed the prospective employee pipeline constantly, not just when you are ready to hire. [00:05:33] I'm always and our team is alw...2020-07-1625 min
The Digital Agency Show | Helping Agency Owners Transform Their Business Mindset to Increase Prices, Work Less, and Grow ProfitsE156: Agile-based billing to reduce custom project risk with Mike ReynoldsMike Reynolds is the CEO of Innovatemap, a digital product agency located in Broad Ripple. Mike has been ideating and delivering digital products to market for over 20 years. He is an expert in product management, user experience, and product marketing. Mike believes there is a digital solution to every problem.
Mike brings a fresh perspective on product strategy and guides clients to find the right product-market fit.2020-06-1634 min
Middle Tech99. Innovatemap: Christian Beck on the Importance of DesignOn this week's episode, we sat down with the Executive Design Partner of Innovatemap, Christian Beck. Innovatemap is an Indianapolis-based design firm that helps companies of all sizes design & build digital products and services. In this episode, we focus heavily on the importance of good design. Christian walks us through what early stage companies should be doing in regards to design, and also shares lots of wisdom about the role that good design plays in building successful digital products.
Listen to more from Christian at his podcast, Better Product.
Visit us at middletechpod.com
2020-05-2650 min
Obsessed Show118 - Christian Beck, InnovatemapToday on Obsessed Show we're chatting with Christian Beck, leader of the UX design team at Innovatemap, and host of the Better Product Podcast. The Innovatemap team in Indy was my connection to Anna Saraceno at Trello, and Art Viger at Peak Design, so I'd like to say a big thank you to Innovatemap for making those initial connections! 2019-05-201h 03
An Indianapolis Business Podcast: Off the CircleMike Reynolds of Innovatemap: An Indiana Digital Product AgencyIn this Martech Zone Interview, we speak to Mike Reynolds, founder of Innovatemap, a digital product agency. Mike has been ideating and delivering digital products to market for over 20 years. He is an expert in product management, user experience, and product marketing. Innovatemap helps companies of all sizes dream, design, and scale digital products and services. Innovatemap works with startups looking to build their product roadmap, scale-ups that are shifting or taking their company in another direction, and tech-enabled businesses that wish to leverage technology to enhance their non-technology company. We discuss a couple of shared clients and the...2019-03-3133 min
Off the CircleMike Reynolds of Innovatemap: An Indiana Digital Product AgencyIn this Martech Zone Interview, we speak to Mike Reynolds, founder of Innovatemap (http://innovatemap.com), a digital product agency. Mike has been ideating and delivering digital products to market for over 20 years. He is an expert in product management, user experience, and product marketing. Innovatemap helps companies of all sizes dream, design, and scale digital products and services. Innovatemap works with startups looking to build their product roadmap, scale-ups that are shifting or taking their company in another direction, and tech-enabled businesses that wish to leverage technology to enhance their non-technology company. We discuss a couple of shared clients...2019-03-3133 min