Newsletters

The shift to managing managers

February 22, 2026

This issue explores the nuances of leadership, decision-making, and productivity in tech. Discover insights on managing managers, overcoming decision fatigue, and harnessing AI effectively to drive real organizational value.

The secret to getting promoted

February 19, 2026

This issue explores essential insights for career advancement and effective leadership. Learn how to build trust for promotions, enhance responsiveness as a manager, and prioritize engineering maturity for AI success.

How to run a technical due diligence?

February 15, 2026

In this issue, we delve into effective technical due diligence, explore the pitfalls of misguided incentives, and emphasize the importance of political capital in driving change. Plus, learn to prioritize what truly matters in your projects.

Three bad managers

February 12, 2026

This issue explores leadership lessons from both successful and flawed managers, emphasizing the importance of systems over heroes in tech. Learn how to provide effective feedback and enhance your soft skills for greater impact.

AI fluency leveling

February 08, 2026

This issue dives into AI fluency frameworks, Slack hacks to boost productivity, lessons from LEGO on autonomy, navigating startup advice, and tackling bottlenecks for team improvement. Unlock insights to enhance your workflow and leadership.

Learnings from 10 years as an engineering manager

February 05, 2026

This issue dives into essential insights for engineering managers, covering lessons from Jampa Uchoa on team dynamics, Jacob Clark's clarity on capex vs. opex, and Jade Rubick's approach to resolving disagreements through tradeoffs.

Autonomy and clarity in leadership styles

February 01, 2026

This issue explores diverse leadership insights, from adapting styles for team autonomy to the evolving role of engineers in a world where AI simplifies coding but not software complexity. Discover how to empower your team and navigate the future of tech.

Leading what you’ve never done before

January 29, 2026

In this issue, we explore leadership strategies for tech managers, the importance of including engineers in decision-making, and lessons from failed startups. Plus, insights on effective work estimation and helping stuck employees regain momentum.

The hitchhiker’s guide to measuring engineering ROI

January 25, 2026

This issue dives into the complexities of measuring engineering ROI, the challenges of project failures in large companies, and the importance of maintaining technical skills as a manager. Plus, insights on effective conversations and leadership strategies.

No management needed

January 22, 2026

This issue explores critical insights for early-stage engineering teams. Antoine Boulanger shares management pitfalls to avoid, while Joel Hawksley discusses staff roles. Plus, tips on time management, prioritizing outcomes, and understanding dark launching.

Three ways to solve problems

January 18, 2026

In this issue, we explore problem-solving strategies, how to seek effective advice, and innovative standup meeting techniques. Plus, insights on opportunistic hold-up in business and maintaining engineering discipline.

Engineer to executive translation layer

January 15, 2026

In this issue, explore how to bridge the gap between engineers and executives, prioritize valuable ideas, and enhance leadership through reflection. Plus, discover meeting tips and the impact of tools on culture.

Creating your own opportunities

January 11, 2026

This issue explores creating your own growth opportunities, the impact of individual contributors, and the dangers of constant change in companies. Plus, learn about trust and competence in teams and the importance of focused priorities.

The difference between manager and director

January 08, 2026

Welcome to the first Thursday issue. Explore insights on career progression from manager to director, crafting effective team traditions, AI engineering patterns, and the dynamics of software development. Enjoy.

The best leadership articles of 2025

January 04, 2026

Happy New Year. 🎉 This issue features the top 5 must-read articles of 2025, tackling senior engineer management, AI's impact on careers, and traits of effective tech leads. Dive in for insights that can transform your approach.

How to be exceptional at anything

December 21, 2025

In this final issue of 2025, we explore habits for exceptional performance, effective compensation strategies, and decision-making frameworks. Plus, insights on leveraging AI for junior developers and calendar management tips. Happy holidays.

Traits of a good tech lead

December 14, 2025

In this issue, explore leadership insights on tech leads, succession planning, and managing chaos in uncertain times. Discover the importance of relationship labeling and effective delegation for scaling. Plus, don't miss our reader survey.

Why you can't focus at work

December 07, 2025

In this issue, explore the math behind workplace interruptions with Can Duruk, learn about effective board meetings with Kevin Goldsmith, and discover how to articulate your thoughts intelligently with Dan Koe. Plus, insights on managing unplanned work from Jim Grey.

How startups lose their edge

November 30, 2025

In this issue, we explore how startups can maintain their edge amidst rapid growth, the hidden traps of success, and navigating low-trust environments. Plus, insights on effective one-on-ones and managing team dynamics.

Why does development slow down?

November 23, 2025

In this issue, we explore why software development slows down, the importance of measuring developer performance accurately, and the hidden costs of shadow work in engineering teams. Plus, insights on startup team organization and the art of effective communication in tech.