From Engineer to Product Marketing Leader: Nitin Karthik’s Journey of Reinvention

How do you pivot your career, build a personal brand, and turn your knowledge into a bestselling book—all while working a full-time job?

In this episode, I sit down with Nitin Karthik, a product marketing leader, content creator, and author of Product Marketing Wisdom. His career path has taken him from software engineering to product marketing, from corporate roles to building his personal brand, and ultimately to writing a book based on 100+ expert interviews.

We discuss:
✅ How Nitin transitioned from engineering to marketing (and how to pivot your own career)
✅ The power of compounding in personal branding—why consistency beats overnight success
✅ How to overcome imposter syndrome and start sharing your ideas online
✅ The "trading up" networking strategy—how to build relationships with high-profile people
✅ How Nitin wrote and launched an Amazon bestselling book in just two months
✅ Why helping others is the best way to grow—his unique book launch strategy proves it

This episode is a must-listen if:

• You’re considering a career pivot and want to learn from someone who’s done it successfully
• You’re struggling with imposter syndrome and self-doubt about building your personal brand
• You want to grow your network and create meaningful opportunities in your industry
• You’re curious about the process of writing and launching a book from scratch

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
02:30 – Nitin’s global journey (India → Africa → USA)
04:55 – From software engineering to marketing: How he made the switch
09:40 – Why personal branding is more important than ever
14:00 – Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt
20:15 – The strategy behind networking and making meaningful connections
28:20 – Choosing the right platform for your content
38:40 – How data and analytics help improve your brand growth
45:30 – Writing a book in 2 months: Lessons from Nitin’s Amazon Bestseller
52:50 – The power of community: How helping others helps you

👉 Listen to the full conversation for real, actionable advice on personal branding, networking, and career growth!

📢 Connect with Nitin Karthik:
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nitinkartik/
📖 His Book: ProductMarketingWisdom.com

Summary

Aya Tange shares her experiences and insights on cultural diversity, transitioning from big tech to startups, and developing presentation skills. She discusses the benefits and challenges of navigating different cultures and the importance of keeping an open mind. Aya also highlights the value of rotation programs in the tech industry and provides tips for effective public speaking. She emphasizes the importance of getting to know the audience, practicing, and delivering content in a conversational and relatable manner. Finally, Aya shares her decision-making principles, which involve planning for the future and pursuing personal goals. In this conversation, Aya Tange discusses her experiences working internationally and the value of seeking international experience. She also shares insights on the differences between big tech companies and startups, and the importance of reflecting on one's career path. Aya emphasizes the significance of company culture and the human aspect when making job decisions. She provides insights into the role of product marketing and the differences between inbound and outbound product marketing. Aya also shares her favorite podcasts and the benefits of consuming podcast content.

Takeaways

Cultural diversity provides valuable perspectives and insights, but it also requires an open mind and adaptability to navigate different cultures.
Rotation programs in the tech industry offer opportunities for career development and exploration of different roles and teams.
Effective public speaking involves getting to know the audience, practicing, and delivering content in a conversational and relatable manner.
When making decisions, it is important to plan for the future and pursue personal goals. Seeking international experience can be valuable for personal and professional growth.
Working for not-so-recognizable brands can provide unique learning opportunities that big companies may not offer.
When considering job opportunities, it's important to assess both the professional and cultural aspects.
Reflecting on one's career path regularly can help make informed decisions and progress in one's career.
Product marketing can take different forms depending on the company, and it's important to understand the specific role and responsibilities.
Company culture and the people you work with are crucial factors to consider when evaluating job opportunities.
Podcasts can be a valuable source of learning and entertainment, providing insights from successful individuals and diverse perspectives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
02:20 Benefits and Challenges of Cultural Diversity
06:05 Challenges of Navigating Different Cultures
08:20 Transition from Big Tech to Startups
13:34 Opportunities in Rotation Programs
20:20 Tips for Effective Public Speaking
24:40 Decision-Making Principles
26:33 Seeking International Experience
28:08 Learning from Not-So-Recognizable Brands
32:35 Pros and Cons of Chasing Big Names
36:52 Considering Cultural Aspects in Career Decisions
37:24 Assessing the Human Aspect of Job Decisions
42:28 Defining Product Marketing
45:25 Differences in Product Marketing Across Regions
47:53 The Importance of Company Culture in Product Marketing
48:24 The Power of Podcasts
51:36 Recommended Podcasts

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Devon, the founder and managing partner of Fluvio, shares his background and journey in product marketing consulting. He discusses the appeal of Denver as an outdoor destination and a livable city. Devon explains how his passion for writing and curiosity have contributed to his success as an entrepreneur. He also emphasizes the importance of principles, communication, and dedication in building a business. Devon draws parallels between his athletic background and the skills required in business. He concludes by discussing the hiring criteria and the significance of soft skills in his team. In this conversation, Devon O'Rourke, the Founder and Managing Partner of Fluvio, discusses his approach to interviewing candidates and the importance of aligning their experiences with the company's leadership principles. He emphasizes the need for candidates to research the company thoroughly and demonstrate their deep interest in the role. Devon also explains the go-to-market model and the common mistakes companies make in implementing it. He highlights the importance of assessing go-to-market motion and offers resources for companies to do so. Additionally, Devon introduces Fluvio Launchpad, a service that helps companies hire product marketers. He concludes by discussing the concept of embracing erosion and the inspiration behind his podcast, Embracing Erosion.

Takeaways:

Denver is a popular destination for outdoor sports and activities, making it an attractive place to live.
Passion for writing and curiosity are valuable skills for entrepreneurs.
Establishing principles and maintaining dedication are crucial for building a successful business.
Athletic experiences can provide valuable lessons and skills that translate to the business world. When interviewing candidates, it is important to align their experiences with the company's leadership principles.
Candidates should thoroughly research the company and demonstrate their deep interest in the role.
Companies often make mistakes in implementing their go-to-market model, such as not utilizing post-launch learnings.
Assessing go-to-market motion is crucial for companies to optimize their marketing and product strategies.
Fluvio Launchpad offers a contract-to-hire service to help companies fill product marketing roles.
Embracing change and adapting to new circumstances is essential for personal and professional growth.

“The best companies and the best people don’t shy away from change—they embrace it and take advantage of it. You might have to change your business model, your structure, even move away from your core product. The sooner you make that decision, the more likely you are to survive.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
00:23 Denver as an Outdoor Destination
01:01 Livable City and International Airport
01:37 Introduction and Background
04:42 Skills and Learnings for Entrepreneurship
06:03 Website Development and Copywriting
08:19 Building a Personal or Professional Website
09:23 Motivation for Starting a Business
09:51 Family Influence and Entrepreneurial Mentality
12:01 Identifying Opportunity in Product Marketing Consulting
13:12 Recognition as a Top Product Marketing Consultant
13:39 Advice for Aspiring Professionals
19:07 Lessons from Athletics in Business
23:23 Hiring Criteria and Soft Skills
24:57 Interviewing for Leadership Principles
26:25 Favorite Interview Questions
28:40 The Importance of Researching the Company
29:36 Go-to-Market Model and Mistakes
33:31 Assessing Go-to-Market Motion
34:45 Fluvio Launchpad
40:11 Career Transitions and Personal Growth
42:08 Definition and Relevance of Product Marketing
44:21 Embracing Erosion
47:09 The Embracing Erosion Podcast
50:07 Where to Find Devon O'Rourke

Say "Hi" to Devon:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/devon-o-rourke-54028b34/
https://www.fluviomarketing.com/

Subscribe to my newsletter: https://mywaynewsletter.com/subscribe

In this conversation, Marco Imperato shares his entrepreneurial journey, from his origin in Sicily to the creation of R5 Labs Europe and Product Heroes. He discusses the importance of communication, resilience and the skills needed for a product manager, as well as the value of niches in the market. Marco also talks about the Prodattiros conference, an event that aims to connect industry professionals and inspire growth.

Takeaways:

• Marco founded R5 Labs Europe after selling 80% of his company.
• Edgemoney aims to turn Sicily into a technology hub.
• Resilience is a characteristic trait of Marco, developed after an accident in Australia.
• Distribution is crucial to the success of a product.
• A product manager must be able to communicate and negotiate effectively.
• Curiosity is essential for a product manager.
• Product Heroes is a community that supports product managers in Italy.
• Niches offer significant opportunities in the market.
• The Product Heroes conference is a unique event for industry professionals.
• Difficulty and perseverance are an integral part of the entrepreneurial journey.

Chapters:

• 03:03 Personal Interests and Influences
• 03:58 Transition to Entrepreneurship
• 07:26 The Value of Being Competitive
• 10:09 Applying Past Experiences to Overcome Challenges
• 13:15 Evolution of Ignition
• 20:09 Common Mistakes in Go-to-Market
• 21:48 Importance of Execution in Go-to-Market Planning
• 22:50 Targeting a Narrow Set of Potential Customers
• 26:01 Trends in Product Marketing and Product Management
• 27:54 Adapting to Future Trends
• 29:00 Journey of Ignition and Fundraising
• 31:33 Overcoming Obstacles in Fundraising
• 32:51 Bringing New Ideas to Life
• 33:52 Staying Relevant in an Evolving Market
• 35:39 Adapting to Changes at Ignition
• 37:11 Upcoming Milestones for Ignition
• 39:07 Selling Product Marketers to Companies

Sai "Hi" to Marco:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcoimperato/
• https://www.productheroes.it/
• https://edgemony.com/

In this conversation, Derek Osgood shares his extensive background in product marketing and the challenges he faced transitioning from large companies to startups. He discusses the importance of competitiveness in shaping his career, the evolution of his current venture, Ignition, and the integration of AI into their product. Derek emphasizes the significance of a well-structured go-to-market strategy, common pitfalls companies encounter, and the necessity of narrowing target audiences for effective marketing. He also provides insights into the fundraising process, resilience in entrepreneurship, and the future of Ignition.

Takeaways:
Derek's competitive background has shaped his career approach.
Transitioning from big companies to startups requires adaptability.
Learning on the job is crucial for personal and professional growth.
Narrowing the target audience can lead to better marketing outcomes.
Companies must innovate continuously to stay relevant in the market.
Understanding customer needs is essential for effective product marketing.
The fundraising process can be similar to a marketing exercise.
Resilience is key in overcoming challenges in entrepreneurship.
AI integration is transforming product marketing strategies.
Product marketing involves deeply understanding the market and customers.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:03 Personal Interests and Influences
03:58 Transition to Entrepreneurship
07:26 The Value of Being Competitive
10:09 Applying Past Experiences to Overcome Challenges
13:15 Evolution of Ignition
20:09 Common Mistakes in Go-to-Market
21:48 Importance of Execution in Go-to-Market Planning
22:50 Targeting a Narrow Set of Potential Customers
26:01 Trends in Product Marketing and Product Management
27:54 Adapting to Future Trends
29:00 Journey of Ignition and Fundraising
31:33 Overcoming Obstacles in Fundraising
32:51 Bringing New Ideas to Life
33:52 Staying Relevant in an Evolving Market
35:39 Adapting to Changes at Ignition
37:11 Upcoming Milestones for Ignition
39:07 Selling Product Marketers to Companies

Episode Summary

In the first part of the conversation, Ivan and Michael talk about Michael's weekend in the mountains and how dedicating Sunday to relaxation has had a positive impact on his life. Michael introduces himself as a photographer and entrepreneur in the digital industry and talks about his career path, starting with working in his family's textile business. Afterward, Michael explains how he decided to leave salaried work and become an entrepreneur. He also talks about the importance of facing difficulties and overcoming obstacles. Finally, they discuss authenticity in photography and how to convey it. In the second episode of the conversation with Michael Bertolasi, they explore topics such as the importance of intimacy and listening to oneself, combining artistic passion with entrepreneurship, the danger of focusing solely on monetization, identifying the key steps to becoming a professional, measuring impact and goal setting, building an ethical personal brand and strategies to grow one's personal brand. Finally, future plans for Michael's personal brand are discussed.

“Every day is day one, it truly is. I wake up each day thinking I have so much more to learn. I’m always just at the beginning.”

Takeaways

• Taking time to relax and completely disconnect can have a positive impact on life and well-being.
• Making the decision to leave a dependent job and embark on a different path can be frightening, but it can lead to greater personal fulfillment.
• Facing difficulties and overcoming obstacles is an integral part of the path to growth and success.
• Authenticity in photography is a key element in creating connections and conveying emotions. Listening to one's inner voice and caring for it is crucial for personal authenticity and integrity.
• Combining artistic passion with entrepreneurship can be complex, but it is possible to find a balance that allows you to express yourself and monetize.
• Focusing exclusively on monetization can lead to a feeling of imprisonment and dissatisfaction in the long run.
• Identifying the key steps to becoming a professional requires introspection and a change of mindset.
• Measuring impact and setting specific goals is essential to evaluate the success of a project.
• Building an ethical personal brand is crucial to maintaining the trust and loyalty of one's followers.
• Strategies such as offering free content, creating paid products and collaborating with companies can contribute to the growth of the personal brand.
• Planning and investing energy and focus in your personal brand can lead to significant results over time.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduzione e weekend in montagna
• 00:55 Presentazione di Michael e il suo percorso
• 02:18 Lavoro precedente di Michael nell'azienda di famiglia
• 04:44 Il momento in cui Michael ha deciso di lasciare il lavoro dipendente
• 06:51 La transizione da dipendente a imprenditore
• 09:15 Il video di Michael che annuncia la decisione di lasciare Zara
• 10:16 Affrontare le difficoltà e superare gli ostacoli
• 16:08 Consigli per chi sta iniziando un percorso diverso
• 19:05 L'impatto della tecnologia nel settore della fotografia
• 24:12 L'autenticità nella fotografia e come trasmetterla
• 27:46 La ricerca dell'autenticità e l'unicità di Michael
• 31:46 L'importanza dell'intimità e dell'ascolto di sé
• 33:21 Combining artistic passion with entrepreneurship
• 37:33 The danger of focusing solely on monetization
• 38:12 Identifying key steps for transitioning to a professional
• 41:16 Measuring impact and setting goals
• 43:23 Building an ethical personal brand
• 46:45 Strategies for growing a personal brand
• 50:32 Future plans for the personal brand

Say “Hi” to Michael:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelbertolasi/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/michaelbertolasi
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelbertolasi/

Useful links:

• Michael’s “first” official Video: https://www.facebook.com/michaelbertolasiprivate/videos/10210210411363902

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Episode Summary

In this conversation, Tillman Horn discusses his background in international studies and remote work, his experience in building and leading BDR teams, and his role as a co-host of the Revenue Circus Podcast. He shares insights on the challenges and foundations of remote work, the qualities needed for remote workers, and the future of remote work. Tillman also provides practical advice on choosing accommodation for remote work and shares information about the Artist Circus event. He concludes with advice for aspiring salespeople, BDRs, remote workers, and podcasters.

“Listen really carefully to your customers… The less you speak, the better actually. We have two ears and one mouth for a reason, that we should listen at least twice compared to what we say.”

Takeaways

• Building BDR teams involves defining the ideal customer persona, creating a playbook, and providing training and mentorship.
• Remote work requires self-drive, resilience, and the ability to find a work-life balance.
• Transitioning to remote work requires establishing a remote work culture, effective communication tools, and addressing challenges such as power outages.
• The future of remote work may involve virtual offices and increased use of technology for remote collaboration.
• When choosing accommodation for remote work, consider factors such as internet connectivity, quiet spaces, and proximity to amenities.
• The Revenue Circus Podcast focuses on interviewing individual contributors in sales and customer success, providing tips and tricks for professionals in these roles.
• Hosting a podcast can lead to increased engagement on professional networks, networking opportunities, and potential business opportunities.
• The Artist Circus event in Berlin offers workshops and networking opportunities for individuals in tech sales and revenue roles.
• Advice for aspiring salespeople, BDRs, remote workers, and podcasters includes learning the basics, finding mentors, and taking a long-term approach to career growth.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Background
• 03:22 BDR Teams and Their Role in Sales
• 06:38 Building BDR Teams and Foundations
• 10:51 Qualities for Remote Work
• 13:44 Challenges and Solutions in Transitioning to Remote Work
• 17:20 The Future of Remote Work
• 20:40 Tips for Choosing Accommodation for Remote Work
• 25:14 The Revenue Circus Podcast
• 28:28 Impact of Hosting a Podcast
• 33:11 The Artist Circus Event
• 35:33 Advice for Aspiring Salespeople, BDRs, Remote Workers, and Podcasters
• 37:54 Conclusion and Contact Information

Say "Hi" to Tillmann:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/tillmannhorn/
• https://podcasts.apple.com/it/podcast/the-revenue-circus/id1722639111?l=en-GB
• https://www.arrtist-circus.com

Thank you for listening, subscribe to my newsletter and get notified about new episodes and other valuable updates: https://myway.beehiiv.com/subscribe