37. Deep Dive into Fractional Product Management with Aakash Gupta

The Estee Show - Product Management & Business Insights

Unlocking the Power of Fractional Product Leadership with Aakash Gupta

In this episode of the Estee Show, we explore the evolving world of fractional product leadership with expert Aakash Gupta. This deep dive follows our previous discussion on the topic with Ben Erez and expands on the insights found in an extensive 16,000-word article co-authored by Aakash and Jason Knight, host of the One Knight in Product podcast. Aakash discusses the intricacies of the fractional PM role, from pricing strategies and engagement setup to avoiding common pitfalls and ensuring successful outcomes. He shares lessons from interviewing 20 fractional PMs, offering real-world examples and guidelines. Tune in for an enlightening conversation whether you're in the product management field, considering a fractional career, or simply intrigued by the concept. Additional highlights include tips on balancing life and work, leveraging your network for success, and insights on the latest trends in the industry. Don't miss this chance to learn from one of the most respected figures in product management.

00:00 Introduction to Fractional Product Leadership

00:18 Deep Dive into Aakash Gupta's Article

01:37 Aakash Gupta's Background and Expertise

02:21 Target Audience for Fractional Leadership

02:44 Insights from Aakash and Ben's Experiences

03:37 Welcome Aakash Gupta to the Show

04:01 Understanding Fractional Leadership

04:59 History and Evolution of Fractional Roles

07:25 Challenges and Misconceptions in Fractional Roles

11:52 When to Consider Fractional Roles

15:55 Balancing Full-Time and Fractional Roles

18:46 The Importance of Referrals and Relationships

22:49 Setting Realistic Goals for Fractional Roles

25:39 Fractional Product Agencies and ROI

29:16 Responsibility in Providing Advice

36:33 Navigating the Perception of Product Managers on X

37:08 Controversial Post and Its Aftermath

38:55 Private Likes Feature on X

40:38 Networking and Building Connections on X

41:52 Understanding Fractional Leadership

42:53 Pricing and Strategies for Fractional Roles

43:47 Challenges and Opportunities in Fractional Leadership

50:09 Diversifying Revenue Streams for Fractional Leaders

54:35 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Reflections

01:03:51 Final Thoughts and Career Advice

Bio: Aakash Gupta is a former VP of product who spent 15 years in product at companies like Apollo.io, Epic Games, and thredUP. Nowadays, he runs the Product Growth newsletter, which is a newsletter on career topics for PM and growth people that goes out to 125,000 plus folks.

Useful Links:

1. Aakash’s newsletter: https://www.news.aakashg.com/
2. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aagupta/
3. X: https://x.com/aakashg0
4. The article that inspired this episode: https://www.news.aakashg.com/p/fractional-product-leadership
5. Episode 35 with Ben Erez: https://theesteeshow.com/episodes/episode-35-the-rise-of-fractional-work-in-product-management-with-ben-erez