The Opinionated Investor™

Unadulterated hot takes on Products, Investments, and Life!

Category: Philosophy

  • From Book to Business: How ‘Unreasonable Hospitality’ Transformed My Airbnb Hosting

    From Book to Business: How ‘Unreasonable Hospitality’ Transformed My Airbnb Hosting

    When I first started renting out spare bedrooms in my house on Airbnb, little did I know about hospitality. It quickly became evident to me that my modest offering of a few spare bedrooms simply couldn’t match up competing with larger properties with amenities like pools, spas, and scenic patios. Then, How do I create…

  • Staying Grounded as a Product Manager: Avoiding the Moron or Maniac Trap

    Staying Grounded as a Product Manager: Avoiding the Moron or Maniac Trap

    I recently heard an analogy on a podcast that really struck a chord with me: “Most people think those driving slower than them are morons, and anyone driving faster than them is a maniac.” This simple observation holds a powerful lesson for Product Managers and Investors alike. We’re constantly navigating a landscape filled with differing…

  • Navigating the Chaos: Three Essential Lessons for New Managers

    Navigating the Chaos: Three Essential Lessons for New Managers

    I recently spoke to a newly minted manager who reached out for advice on how to be an effective leader. The conversation reminded me of when I first became an Engineering Manager of a small team. My then-manager shared three crucial lessons with me that I still find to be the best compass in the…

  • KPIs are fine, Measure KFIs (Key Failure Indicators)

    KPIs are fine, Measure KFIs (Key Failure Indicators)

    KPIs? Sure. Wait … but what about KFIs?? Often Product Managers are asked what KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) are they using to measure the success of your product? I wonder why very few people talk about KFIs (Key Failure Indicators)? I believe every product team should be transparent and open to talk about failures and…

  • Disagreements Are a Good Thing

    Disagreements Are a Good Thing

    Lack of disagreements during team meetings is a BIG red flag for any leader… Why? I believe, there could only be two reasons, if people in the team aren’t disagreeing with each other: 1. People are afraid of speaking up.2. People aren’t thinking enough. Neither case is a particularly good indicator. Are you disagreeing enough?