“The most precious gift you can give someone is your time and attention”
This is it - the 52nd and final episode of doing it my way by beata matras in 2024.
It’s been a year full of lessons, challenges, growth, and new beginnings.
In this personal episode, I’m reflecting on the key lessons I’ve learned this year, both in my career and personal life.
From the messy middle to moments of clarity, I hope these lessons resonate with anyone navigating their own journey.
✨ My key lessons:
As I step into a new chapter and take a break from podcasting, I hope this episode helps someone out there who’s navigating their own messy middle.
Until next time, take care and - keep doing it your way 💫
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Explore more episodes: https://linktr.ee/doingitmywaybybeatamatras
Youtube: https://youtu.be/G9AjhHQYabU
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🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
"Building self-awareness was the first step to managing my ADHD symptoms. You don’t need to do everything at once - start small and build habits gradually."
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🎙 This week’s episode is a deeply personal one as I share my journey of discovering and managing ADHD.
As a project and product manager, I’ve had to find creative ways to navigate the challenges of ADHD while building a fulfilling career.
This is my story, with all its ups and downs, and I hope it helps others to accept their uniqueness and learn how to manage their challenges better.
✨ Episode Focus:
This episode delves into the realities of living with ADHD - how it impacts personal and professional life, the misconceptions surrounding it, and the strategies I’ve developed to manage it. From self-awareness to practical coping mechanisms, I share insights into how ADHD has shaped my journey and what I’ve learned along the way.
🔍 What to expect in this episode:
- what ADHD is and how it manifests in everyday life,
- the emotional and professional challenges of ADHD,
- strategies for managing ADHD, including energy management and self-advocacy,
- how to embrace neurodiversity in the workplace,
- why self-acceptance is the foundation for growth.
Links:
Youtube: https://youtu.be/lYrlueQLFRc
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🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
Confidence doesn’t come from knowing everything. It comes from starting small.
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🎙 Guest Overview:
Alena Placha, Head of the Middle East Chapter at She Loves Data, is on a mission to demystify data, humanize AI, and empower women in tech.
With a background that spans consulting, fintech, and community leadership, Alena brings passion and practical insights to help women break into AI and data without feeling overwhelmed.
✨ Episode Focus:
In this episode, we explore how to navigate the world of AI and data, breaking down barriers for women in tech. Alena shares her journey, practical advice for building confidence, and insights into creating inclusive places and communities that value diverse perspectives.
⏰ Chapters⏰:
Links:
🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
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YouTube link: https://youtu.be/0TbqTq71OZg
AI won’t take your job as a leader, but it will change how you lead
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🎙 Guest Overview:
Jurgen Appelo is a writer, speaker, and entrepreneur specializing in agility, innovation, and leadership. He is the creator of the unFIX Model and the Management 3.0 framework and author of the sci-fi novel Glitches of Gods. Describing himself as slightly anarchistic, autistic, and eccentric, Jurgen’s perspective is transforming how organizations operate in the modern world.
✨ Episode Focus:
In this episode, Jurgen shares insights into modern leadership, the rise of AI, and how agility and innovation are reshaping management.
We discuss the unFIX Model, the power of neurodiversity in teams, and strategies to build safe, high-performing teams while preparing for the future of work.
⏰ Chapters ⏰:
00:00 Introduction and guest overview
01:30 Jurgen’s journey from software engineer to leadership expert
03:30 the unFIX Model: a Lego-style approach to management
08:30 leadership & organisational design in the AI era
13:00 what leaders can do to stay relevant in AI era
19:00 neurodiversity in the workplace
24:20 how to embrace your neurodiversity
26:30 how organizations can support neurodiversity
30:58 practical strategies for building high-performing teams
36:30 creating a safe environment
37:10 feedback culture & tough conversations
41:30 preparing for leadership shifts in the age of AI
45:05 closing remarks and upcoming projects
🔍 What you will learn:
Links:
YouTube: https://youtu.be/gmVseVAx-ZQ
—
🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
Your network is an extension of your values and principles.
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🎙 Guest Overview:
Bevin Mohabeer is an award-winning Experience Design Leader from London, on a mission to "put Experience Design in places where you least expect".
With over 8+ years of experience, Bev has built Creative & Experience Design teams from the ground up for organizations like Emarat, DP World, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Crate & Barrel, Marks & Spencer, JP Morgan Chase, and more, bringing over 30+ live products to life around the world.
✨ Episode Focus:
In this episode, we dive into the intersection of design and networking, offering practical advice on creating genuine connections, maintaining authenticity, and leveraging relationships for career growth.
We are challenging the transactional nature of typical interactions.
Bev shares strategies to build authentic connections, highlights the importance of self-awareness and intentionality, and emphasizes networking as a way to enrich one’s personal and professional life.
⏰ Chapters ⏰:
00:00 introduction and guest overview
01:30 Bev’s career journey
05:15 the core principles of UX and design
12:00 the importance of asking questions
15:15 balancing user needs with business goals
20:00 networking introduction
21:05 leaving a positive impression in professional interactions
27:02 the importance of focusing on and appreciating others
32:40 how networking can directly lead to interesting opportunities
38:55 the importance of presenting yourself and leaving a positive emotional footprint
40:30 how to redefine networking
42:35 tips for introverts to network effectively
47:50 it’s not about us, it’s about them
48:10 the role of empathy, self-awareness and authenticity in professional networking
53:20 practical tips to expand your network
59:10 key takeaways and where to find Bev online
🔍 What you will learn:
Links:
YouTube: https://youtu.be/6zlk3Rgl5II
—
🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
Feedback isn’t criticism - it’s a tool for growth. Building resilience means seeing rejection as redirection
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🎙 Guest Overview
Nesrine Changuel, PhD, is a product management expert with over a decade of experience at major tech companies like Google, Spotify, and Microsoft. Her work has been instrumental in building large-scale, user-focused products that reach millions. Beyond her technical expertise, Nesrine is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, mentoring the next generation of tech leaders and empowering women in product management through speaking, coaching, and advising.
✨ Episode Focus
In this episode, Nesrine shares insights on building scalable products that genuinely resonate with users. She discusses the role of empathy, cultural awareness, and team diversity in creating products that people connect with.
🔍 What you’ll hear about
⏰ Chapters ⏰
00:00 Introduction and guest overview
01:40 Nesrine’s career journey and transition to product management
05:10 key principles for building large-scale, user-focused products
08:20 managing scalability without losing user-centered focus
12:55 biggest challenges in creating scalable and delightful products
15:45 how empathy and emotional connection shape great products
17:15 why diversity and inclusion matter for innovation
19:20 women's role in product innovation, and how can organizations better support them
21:00 the most common challenges that women face in tech leadership, and how Nesrine overcame them
24:20 navigating challenges in global product management (AI, new technologies, Product Management redundancy)
28:10 Product Management knowledge areas and top skills
31:45 areas of product management that we should focus on to stay relevant in the industry
34:45 advice for aspiring product managers
38:30 final thoughts and where to connect with Nesrine
Links:
Youtube: https://youtu.be/lTYZsePNcd0
—
🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
UAE values resilience and adaptability. It’s not just about skills - it’s about attitude. Persistence and creativity are vital here. Be prepared to face rejection, but don’t give up.
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🎙 Guest Overview
Harry Silvester, Head of Product & Design Recruitment at Discovered MENA, brings over six years of experience in the UK and European markets, specializing in placing design teams and digital leaders within top agencies and brands.
Now based in Dubai, he shares his insights into the MENA job market, recruitment strategies, and how candidates can stand out in a competitive landscape.
✨ Episode Focus
Harry offers practical guidance on breaking into Dubai's job market, covering key strategies to land roles in product and design.
We discuss everything from understanding industry trends to building resilience, leveraging LinkedIn, and using creative methods to make a mark in the region.
This conversation is essential for anyone seeking career growth in Dubai’s fast-paced environment.
⏰ Chapters ⏰
01:25 introduction and Harry's background
03:25 transition to Dubai: opportunities and challenges
6:30 how the job market in MENA evolved over years
8:20 should I apply if I tick 50% of boxes
9:10 insights into the job market in the MENA region
11:50 unique challenges or opportunities in the Dubai job market compared to other regions
17:20 how to stand out in the MENA market
20:20 the part where I'm singing about job searching
22:20 Harry's advice on how to start the job search in MENA region
26:15 common mistakes job seekers make during their job search and how can they overcome them
30:50 how to use LinkedIn to support your job search
32:15 importance of relationship building
37:30 what are the top three things candidates should focus on to nail a job interview in Dubai
41:00 summary of how to prepare yourself for the MENA market
42:30 how AI is reshaping is the job market for product managers and recruitment
44:45 specific trends that can impact recruitment and product management in the near future
47:00 my personal challenges on job search in MENA region
35:30 how to Handle Rejections and Keep Moving Forward
53:05 one crucial piece of advice to someone on the hunt for their dream job in UAE
55:00 where to find Harry (online and offline)
🔍 What you will learn:
Links:
Youtube: https://youtu.be/pQ2cb3k-_50
—
🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
The most successful people aren’t afraid of falling from the top - they take risks, while others hold back due to fear of failure
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🎙 Guest Overview
Emilia Jaworska is an IT project and program manager, communications expert, mentor, and podcaster based in Dubai.
With extensive experience across Europe and the Middle East, Emilia has built a strong career, navigating both cultural and professional challenges.
Known for her resilience and dedication, she now empowers others through her podcast, sharing positive female narratives in the Middle East.
✨ Episode Focus
In this episode, Emilia shares her journey of moving from Europe to the Middle East, her experiences with burnout, building a personal brand, and the importance of embracing oneself amidst societal pressures.
We cover strategies to thrive in a high-paced market while staying true to personal values and maintaining holistic well-being.
⏰ Chapters ⏰
00:00 introduction and guest overview
01:25 Emilia’s career journey from Poland to Dubai
04:35 challenges of working in a foreign, competitive environment
06:25 the importance of personal brand and network in Dubai
08:25 tips on positioning yourself in the new market
11:55 scared vs excited
17:00 the challenges when moving to the new country or market and how to overcome them
19:40 the role of self-awareness and resilience, and insights into IT and marketing industry in Dubai
23:50 handling societal pressures and staying true to oneself
33:45 Emilia’s journey into business coaching and mentoring
41:50 the story of "Dziewczyny z Dubaju: Her Dubai Story" - podcast that highlights Polish women successes in Dubai
51:40 our podcasting lessons
54:25 key advice and upcoming projects
56:45 where to find Emilia online
🔍 What you will learn
Links:
YouTube: https://youtu.be/5CQQ1_de-XU
—
🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s about showing up as the best version of yourself for others too.
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🎙 Guest Overview
Asher Kennedy is the founder of Level One Coaching, dedicated to helping professionals build healthier, more balanced lives.
With a background in corporate recruitment and a passion for fitness, Asher brings his insights into the intersection of career and well-being.
His journey from the corporate world to fitness coaching has empowered countless individuals to take control of their health (and career!).
✨ Episode Focus
In this episode, we discuss the importance of fitness and self-care, especially in high-stress careers. Asher shares insights into the power of small steps, mindset shifts, and daily routines to support long-term well-being.
⏰ Chapters ⏰
00:00 introduction to the episode and guest
01:35 Asher’s career transition and the motivation behind fitness coaching
04:20 how fitness shaped Asher’s approach to career and health
06:55 how to start your fitness journey when they’re facing a life crisis
11:30 small steps that make a big difference in fitness and life
17:30 mental resilience, delayed gratification, and fitness as a life foundation
25:20 practical advices for busy professionals to stay fit
31:50 "love is a verb"
35:00 Asher’s early business, corporate career and fitness story
41:40 final advice on fitness and career
47:40 where to find Asher online
48:40 closing thoughts
🔍 What you will learn:
Links:
YouTube: https://youtu.be/On1_mN1DUzw
—
🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
Taking small actions, like changing habits or setting boundaries, can make a big difference in preventing burnout
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🎙 Guest: Ola Kunysz is a highly experienced software engineer, clean code advocate, and mentor with a passion for helping professionals avoid burnout in the fast-paced IT industry.
With years of technical experience and a focus on positive psychology, Ola’s journey has evolved from purely technical work to mentoring and promoting mental well-being in the workplace.
Her dedication to balancing professional growth and personal health makes her a valuable voice in today’s discussions about burnout prevention.
✨ Episode Focus:
In this episode, we discuss the issue of burnout in the tech industry. Ola shares her personal experience of burnout, discusses the importance of employee engagement, and provides practical strategies for preventing burnout and maintaining mental well-being.
Ola also highlights the unique challenges faced by women in tech and the role of positive psychology in career development.
⏰ Chapters ⏰:
00:00 introduction and guest overview
01:35 Ola’s journey from software engineering to burnout prevention
06:30 key factors that drive employee engagement in the workplace
11:30 how to take care about your engagement at work
14:05 how to focus on the things in your control
17:50 key factors that drive engagement at work
21:20 how leaders can take care of team's engagement
25:10 common signs of burnout
31:00 Ola's burnout experience and her strategies to overcome it
34:15 burnout among women in tech and unique challenges
41:30 practical anti-burnout techniques for IT professionals
51:30 mindset shift needed in preventing burnout
56:20 gratitude, acceptance and patience
1:00:05 trends in managing employee well-being
1:08:30 key advice from Ola to prevent burnout
1:11:20 where to connect with Ola
🔍 What you will learn:
Episode links:
Podcast links:
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🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
Stop seeking external validation for your goals - trust yourself
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Guest Overview:
Elena Zhukova is a co-founder of OKR Poland with over 20 years of experience helping companies across Europe and the USA build and implement effective strategies.
She has introduced OKRs to 20+ organizations in various industries and is passionate about empowering founders to create businesses that bring them happiness and freedom.
Episode focus:
In this episode, Elena shares her insights on how OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) can transform businesses and empower teams.
From overcoming implementation challenges to applying OKRs in a meaningful way, Elena provides practical advice for aligning goals with business strategy and personal success.
Key topics covered:
Timestamps:
00:00 intro and guest overview
01:30 Elena’s career milestones and journey with OKRs
06:10 what makes OKRs special compared to other frameworks
10:15 common challenges in implementing OKRs
19:15 how OKRs can be easily applied in companies
26:35 practices for getting started with OKRs
29:50 myths about OKRs and how to avoid them
36:40 what leaders should consider when using OKRs
38:10 can OKRs be used in personal life?
41:55 how to get started with OKRs
45:25 how can leaders support their teams in adopting OKRs
53:40 top tips for maintaining motivation and focus when working with OKRs
01:00:45 the future of OKRs and upcoming trends
01:06:05 final advice and closing thoughts
Mentions and links:
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CNxve0md8xk
—
🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
When I make music, people relate to the songs because there's pain in the work environment.
The songs are funny because they’re true, and sometimes, laughter helps us see things differently.
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🎙 Guest Overview:
Adam Janosch is an Agile Consultant with a unique twist - he's also a musician and rapper who uses his musical talents to make Agile principles more accessible.
Adam’s background in engineering, combined with his love for music, enables him to deliver a fresh perspective on Agile project management and product development.
From rapping at conferences to inspiring teams, Adam brings creativity and energy to everything he does.
✨ Episode Focus:
This episode explores how Adam blends his passion for music with Agile practices to inspire teams, create engaging workshops, and bring a creative spin to product management.
We dive into Adam’s journey from engineering to Agile consulting and his approach to using music as a form of expression and engagement in professional settings.
🔍 What you will learn:
⏰ Chapters ⏰:
00:00 intro and guest overview
01:00 Adam’s journey from engineering to Agile consulting and music
02:40 how music serves in Adam’s career
06:15 talent as the unique selling point
09:05 how to blend passion with work
10:40 lessons from music that apply to Agile practices
16:10 challenges of blending music and Agile consulting and how to overcome them
23:00 Adam's experiences with rapping and work
24:55 feedback and managing expectations when you blend your passion and work
30:00 Adam's future goals and personal projects
32:00 closing advice and where listeners can find Adam online
Links:
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cr8TKJlsOu4
Listen on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/doingitmywaybybeatamatras/episodes/From-Engineering-to-Agile-Rapper-How-to-combine-your-passion-with-work--Adam-Janosch-e2p8rnk
—
🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
As Product Managers, we are not specialists, but we’re surrounded by them, and that can feed into self-doubt. It’s okay to not have everything figured out; be kind to yourself in the process.
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🎙 Guest Overview:
Keji Adedeji is a Product Leader with 12+ years experience doing product in B2B, B2B2C and B2C organisations in edTech, customer engagement, travel e-commerce, video consumer insights industries.
She is focused on building a product organization that empowers product managers to excel and deliver their best work.
In addition to her leadership role, Keji is deeply involved in building product communities and advancing the craft of product management.
✨ Episode Focus:
In this episode, Keji shares her journey in product management, focusing on overcoming imposter syndrome, building empowered product teams, and navigating leadership challenges.
She discusses the importance of self-compassion, designing career progression intentionally, and how organizations can better support diverse leadership.
⏰ Chapters ⏰:
00:00 Introduction and guest overview
01:10 Keji’s career journey and key milestones
08:30 Product Director role at Financial Times
12:30 managing the demands of Senior Product role
17:30 Product Manager's Gremlins - imposter syndrome, self-doubt and others
44:15 female leaders' challenges
49:00 inclusivity in the workplace
54:06 building and leading effective teams
58:57 advice for product managers and leaders
1:00:38 closing remarks and where to connect with Keji
🔍 What you will learn:
Links:
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🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
__
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hZfHvwQzRvk
Product management is about understanding the people you work with and the people you're building for
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🎙 Guest Overview:
Ahmad Afzal is the Director of Product at Dtek.ai with over six years of experience in product management across diverse industries.
As a passionate advocate for ADHD awareness, Ahmad shares how his diagnosis has shaped his professional career and offers practical advice on job hunting, product management, and the future of AI in the workplace.
✨ Episode Focus:
This episode explores Ahmad's unique approach to job searching through a product management lens, strategies for managing ADHD in the workplace, and the impact of AI on product management.
⏰ Chapters ⏰:
00:00 introduction and guest overview
01:25 Ahmad’s journey into product management
07:47 productizing your job search
13:57 planning and prioritizing during the job search
18:29 go-to-market and execution of strategy for job seekers
22:26 networking and nurturing professional relationships
33:03 managing ADHD in the workplace
43:25 common struggles of ADHD professionals
50:04 tips for maintaining focus and motivation
54:05 product management and AI
01:01:45 closing advice and upcoming projects
01:03:56 where to connect with Ahmad
🔍 What you hear about:
-how to apply product management principles to streamline your job search
-effective ways to manage ADHD at work and leverage it as a strength
-the importance of AI in product management and leadership
-how to maintain motivation and productivity in fast-paced environments
Links:
- Check out Ahmad LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mahfzal/
- Ahmad's deck on job hunting in MENA region
- Explore more episodes: https://linktr.ee/doingitmywaybybeatamatras
—
🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
__
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5IpA5BKCg-w
Self-confidence often starts with accepting our own imperfections
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🎙 Guest Overview:
Weronika Jankowska-Tofani is a Certified Leadership Coach and Founder of The Women Leadership Academy.
With over 14 years of international experience, she has dedicated her career to helping women overcome challenges, develop emotional intelligence, and achieve balance between their professional and personal lives.
✨ Episode Focus:
Insights on how women can navigate leadership roles and strategies for emotional intelligence development, self-confidence building, and how to lead authentically.
⏰ Chapters ⏰:
00:00 introduction and guest overview
01:30 Weronika’s journey in leadership and key milestones
05:00 leadership challenges
16:15 energies in business
20:55 women in leadership
22:45 self-awareness and emotional intelligence
29:10 practical tips for achieving work-life fulfilment
35:40 key takeaways and closing remarks
🔍 What's in the episode:
Links:
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🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
__
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cXN4GFtOaD8
In winemaking, just like in product management, it's all about balancing creativity and data
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🎙 Guest Overview:
Konrad Bujak is a leader with a sense of humor, and an experienced builder of companies and products from scratch.
With experience at tech giants like Cisco and AppDynamics, Konrad has honed his skills in building products and leadership.
Beyond his professional achievements, Konrad is also a passionate winemaker, managing a vineyard in Poland, where his love for blending art and science truly shines.
✨ Episode Focus:
This episode delves into how AI and the Shape-Up methodology are impacting product management. Konrad shares his unique insights into leading product teams, the advantages of adopting Shape-Up, and how personal passions like winemaking can enhance your professional skills.
⏰ Chapters ⏰:
00:00 introduction and guest overview
01:05 Konrad’s journey into AI and product management
03:15 introduction to the Shape-Up methodology
14:40 Shape-Up and scope/ requirements changes
23:50 AI in Shape-Up and product management
27:00 AI’s impact on leadership
32:05 AI’s impact on product management
42:25 insights into Konrad’s winemaking and its influence on product management
49:00 key takeaways and advice for product management
50:15 closing remarks and where to connect with Konrad
🔍 What you will learn:
Links:
🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
___
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SJtGXrrwVhY
Networking can be uncomfortable, but it’s instrumental for professional growth
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🎙 Guest Overview:
Natalie Choufani is a Digital and Product Specialist with 13 years of experience, including a significant tenure at Meta.
At Meta, she honed her skills in data-driven strategy, collaborating with diverse teams to bridge the gap between big ideas and practical applications.
Natalie’s expertise lies in transforming insights into actionable strategies, helping businesses enhance their digital presence and achieve growth.
✨ Episode Focus:
This episode explores the impact of taking a career break, the unique experiences of working at Meta, and the lessons Natalie has learned about enterpreneurship, work-life balance, personal growth, and navigating high-stress environments.
⏰ Chapters ⏰
00:00 introduction and guest overview
02:00 Natalie’s background and journey in tech and media
03:25 experiences and lessons learned at Meta
08:15 impact of taking a career break on professional life
12:30 challenges and benefits of career breaks
14:40 procrastination as a choice
17:20 tips for professionals considering a career break
24:00 high stress environments vs work-life balance
33:05 interviews and job seeking
39:05 advice for people looking for “the job”
40:55 closing remarks and where to connect with Natalie
🔍 What you will learn:
Links:
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🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
"True leadership is about balancing between forceful decision-making and engaging, supportive communication"
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🎙 Guest Overview:
Igor Mróz is an experienced project manager, lecturer, and founder of Zero BS Management. With a background spanning corporate environments and startups, Igor strips away the fluff and focuses on what truly matters in project management - clear goals, transparent communication, and effective processes.
✨ Episode Focus:
In this episode, we explore why so many projects fail and how leaders can adopt a practical, no-nonsense approach to management. Igor shares his journey from corporate burnout to creating Zero BS Management, offering strategies for focusing on what truly drives project success.
🔍 What you’ll hear about:
⏰ Chapters ⏰:
00:00 intro and guest overview
01:30 Igor’s journey begins
08:40 the risks of buzzwords
15:20 motivating employees
17:30 why projects fail
30:45 project delays explained
38:30 the cost of no ownership
43:38 owner vs sponsor
44:55 when acceptance is key
51:15 relationships in management
54:40 leadership and success
01:04:44 are leaders generalists
01:11:02 the power of balance
01:13:10 PM to entrepreneur skills
01:22:00 future goals and closing
Links:
🔗 Igor Mróz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/igormroz/
🔗 Zero BS Management: https://zerobs.pl/
🔗 Podcast series and social media: https://linktr.ee/doingitmywaybybeatamatras
🔗 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/oDkK3CzESB8
--- 🍵 Enjoying the content? Buy me a tea!
If you’ve found value in the discussions and insights shared in my podcast, consider supporting me by buying me a tea! Your support helps me keep creating and sharing more content.
🔗 https://buymeacoffee.com/doingitmywaybybeatamatras 🍵
---Thank you! And until next time.. keep doing it your way :)
“Network is everything. Surround yourself with like-minded people - it makes all the difference”
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Guest Overview:
Magdalena Okrzeja is a tech expert with a career spanning 15 years in software engineering and business intelligence. After working at companies like GE Healthcare and Qualtrics, Magdalena co-founded tech start-up, driven by a passion for building AI-driven sales optimization platform and navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.
Episode Focus:
The journey of transitioning from a corporate career to founding a tech start-up. Magdalena shares her experiences and advices on overcoming challenges and the importance of resilience.
We also discuss her perspective on the evolving role of women in tech entrepreneurship and the ongoing challenges they face in the venture capital space.
What you’ll hear about:
Chapters:
(00:00) intro and guest overview
(01:34) how Magda’s entrepreneurial journey began
(03:50) what are the 'must-dos' or essential steps to transition from idea to execution
(05:17) the realities of startup life
(09:50) building a supportive network and staying resilient
(19:05) skill needed to survive your startup journey
(21:18) how to balance the demands of start up and learning
(25:50) surprises and new lessons on the start up journey
(30:06) juggling multiple roles as a founder
(35:35) the evolving role of women in tech and entrepreneurship
(40:32) advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
(42:25) future goals and closing thoughts
Links:
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/U0zWh7QFd8E
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3b8d5jQnxGohg7Wr5wwPAA
"Every little step we take as women in tech contributes to making the future easier for others"
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Guest overview:
Alejandra Hernandez Segura is the Associate Director of Discovery Data Engineering, based in Utrecht, Netherlands.
With a solid background in bioinformatics and data engineering, Alejandra leads a team that contributes to pioneering cancer treatments.
Beyond her technical expertise, she is deeply committed to empowering women in tech, actively participating in communities like R-Ladies Utrecht.
Episode focus:
Alejandra’s professional journey as a leader in data engineering and tech, discussing challenges such as imposter syndrome, biases in the workplace, and achieving work-life balance.
The conversation provides practical insights on leadership, community support, and the evolving role of women in technology.
Duration: Approx. 50 minutes
What's in the episode:
Links: