In episode 13, Jessica Soroky shares how to build and scale an effective product operations team. She explains when to hire product ops, the key pillars (tools, data, enablement, process), and why combining program management with product ops creates huge value. Jessica also dives into hiring best practices, common mistakes, and how product ops drives better go-to-market execution and roadmapping. Packed with practical advice, this conversation highlights how product ops can transform outcomes across stakeholders.

In Episode 12 of Talking Roadmaps, Justin Woods interviews Melissa Perri on the true role of product operations in enabling value creation. Melissa dives deep into the three pillars of product ops—data, research, and process—explaining how they connect strategy to execution and empower both teams and executives. Learn how orgs can scale, standardize, and truly support product managers.

In Episode 11 of Talking Roadmaps, Justin Woods speaks with Paulo Garcia about the evolving role of product operations. Paulo shares practical insights on when to introduce a product ops team, how it enables entire organizations—not just product managers—and best practices like scanning the room, building allies, and balancing tooling with human connection. A must-watch for teams considering formalizing product ops.

In Episode 10 of Talking Roadmaps, Phil Hornby interviews Denise Tilles to unpack what successful product operations really looks like today. They explore the evolving role of product ops in enabling decision-making, how AI is shifting the landscape, and the balance between structure and flexibility. Denise shares practical insights on reporting lines, organizational models, tool misuse, and common pitfalls in scaling product ops teams.

In episode 9 of Talking Roadmaps, Justin Woods interviews Graham Reed to explore whether ProductOps truly creates team awesomeness. Graham shares hard-won lessons on setting up ProductOps from 0 to 1, how to drive audience-centric communication, when to introduce the function, and why it's not just support—but a strategic enabler. They also discuss measurement challenges, cultural resistance, and tips for aligning product and commercial teams.

In Episode 8 of Talking Roadmaps, Phil Hornby interviews Amit Godbole to explore whether Product Operations delivers ROI. They dive into how Product Ops supports data-informed decision-making, roadmap facilitation, and scaling without chaos. Amit shares insights from working with top-tier banks and B2B enterprises, highlighting the balance between process, tools, and intuition. From compliance alignment to co-creating with early customers, this episode offers a deep dive into evolving product practices.

In Episode 7 of Talking Roadmaps, Justin Woods interviews Topher Fox, Director of Product Operations at Aerospike, to explore the trade-offs between centralized and localized ProductOps. They dive into empowerment, cross-functional alignment, tooling, anti-patterns, and why ProductOps is a force multiplier—not just a support role. A must-watch for teams scaling product capabilities with intention.

In this episode, Phil Hornby speaks with Anabela Cesário and Patrícia Cadete from OutSystems about what makes product operations successful. They dive into how product ops acts as an enabler—not a gatekeeper—focusing on collaboration, simplification, and impact. From driving adoption through co-creation to building an internal academy and operational dashboards, they share concrete practices and philosophies to scale product organizations without bureaucracy.

In Season 2 Episode 5 of Talking Roadmaps, Justin Woods sits down with Jenny Wanger to explore the question: “Does Product Ops have an identity crisis?” Jenny shares why product operations looks different everywhere, the risks of getting stuck as “tool admin,” and how a true product ops strategy can unlock company-wide impact. Real-world stories, practical frameworks, and advice on avoiding common anti-patterns make this a must-watch for modern product teams.