The Modern LeaderThe Modern Leader Conversations
Real stories. Real lessons. From the managers who learned the hard way.
Every engineering leader has a story: the mistake that shaped them, the feedback that stuck, or the moment they realized leadership wasn't just about code.
This video series explores those stories in candid 20-minute conversations with managers, directors, and VPs across tech.
What we talk about:
Your journey into engineering leadership
A pivotal mistake that shaped your leadership (and what changed after)
Key moments in your career progression and growth
The book or resource that's guided you
Your advice for new engineering managers
A few lightning-round questions we can't resist
Interested in sharing your story? Let me know a bit about you below.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to have a big following?
Nope. Just experience, perspective, and a willingness to be honest about leadership.
How long is the time commitment?
About 45 minutes total - 15 minutes for prep/tech check, 20 minutes for the actual conversation, and 10 minutes buffer.
Will it be audio-only?
No. This is a video-first series (recorded via Zoom or Riverside) to live on YouTube and in The Modern Leader newsletter.
What if I'm not comfortable on camera?
We keep it conversational and low-pressure. You can do a quick tech check beforehand, and we can always re-record segments if needed.
When will my episode be published?
Episodes are released periodically in the newsletter and on YouTube. I'll give you a heads up before it goes live.
Can I see questions in advance?
I'll share the general topics, but the best conversations happen when they feel natural and unscripted.
What if my company has restrictions on media appearances?
Make sure you have approval from your company before applying. We're happy to work with any guidelines they have.
Do you interview people from all company sizes?
Yes - from early-stage startups to Big Tech. The challenges are often more similar than different.