Newsletters

What I say when people ask me for more money

August 31, 2025

In this issue, we explore strategies for negotiating salary increases, the impact of workplace culture on behavior, and the hidden costs of slow feedback loops in software development. Plus, learn the importance of repairing management mistakes.

Managing engineers more experienced than you

August 24, 2025

In this issue, we explore managing experienced engineers, the distinction between glue and back-office teams, and effective collaboration to tackle technical debt. Plus, insights on AI adoption and mental models to enhance intuition.

My 10 years in software engineering

August 17, 2025

In this issue, we explore career growth in software engineering, the complexities of office politics, and the nuances of mentoring versus therapy. Discover insights on fostering innovation and overcoming organizational challenges.

Common problems managing senior engineers

August 10, 2025

This issue explores the nuances of managing senior engineers, fostering empathy in leadership, and navigating remote work challenges. Discover how to leverage metrics effectively and learn from impactful corporate shifts.

So you're a manager now

August 03, 2025

In this issue, we explore essential insights for first-time managers, self-management tips for engineers, and strategies for adopting AI in coding. Plus, discover a framework for making reliable decisions and understand predictive metrics for business growth.

If writing is thinking…

July 27, 2025

This issue explores the challenges of effective communication in business, the importance of decisive leadership in tech, and the value of writing concise emails. Plus, insights on transitioning management roles and enhancing software delivery speed.

Social capital

July 20, 2025

In this issue, explore the power of social capital for engineers, redefine accountability with compassion, and learn how knowledge flow drives innovation. Plus, discover leadership lessons from Star Trek and challenge conventional business strategies.

How to delegate while maintaining high standards

July 13, 2025

In this issue, we explore effective delegation strategies for tech managers, a 90-day playbook for new roles, the evolving evaluation of senior engineers, and insights from an AI initiative that transformed productivity.

How to Deal With a Toxic Top-Performer

July 06, 2025

This issue explores the challenges of managing toxic top-performers, maximizing team productivity, and the importance of intentional meetings. Plus, gain insights on the evolving role of new managers and the impact of asking for help.

Why engineers hate their managers

June 29, 2025

In this issue, we explore engineers' frustrations with management, the consequences of leadership decisions, the value of expert generalists, and prioritization strategies for impactful work. Plus, learn the difference between SLAs and SLOs.

I convinced HP's board to buy Palm for $1.2B

June 22, 2025

In this issue, explore Phil McKinney's insights on HP's Palm acquisition, learn how to manage up effectively, prioritize discovery projects, and understand the balance of micromanagement in tech leadership.

Smart people don't chase goals

June 15, 2025

In this issue, we explore the power of constraints in innovation, tackle estimation pitfalls in Agile, and the quick impressions of job fit. Plus, learn about cognitive reappraisal and strategic mapping for engineering leaders.

Short-term vs long-term

June 08, 2025

In this issue, we explore the balance between short-term and long-term investments in product development, the impact of leaders' language on team morale, and the pitfalls of "big bets" in corporate strategy. Plus, insights on navigating leadership transitions and addressing shadow development in tech environments.

When a team is too big

June 01, 2025

In this issue, we explore team dynamics, effective feedback, bias-free hiring, and the importance of alignment. Discover strategies for enhancing developer experience and fostering clarity in communication.

Why people really quit

May 25, 2025

In this issue, explore why employees quit and how to foster retention with effective management. Discover strategies for productivity with AI, the importance of confidence in presentations, and rethink career paths for growth.

AI won't kill junior devs

May 18, 2025

In this issue, we explore the evolving role of junior developers amidst AI advancements, the importance of workplace relationships during stress, and strategies for effective AI adoption. Discover insights on engineering layers and leadership transparency from real-world examples.

A practical guide to working with your manager

May 11, 2025

This issue delves into effective management techniques, from managing up and conducting productive 1:1s to setting startup policies. Explore insights on building a strong engineering culture and scaling software products.

Why high performers make assertions

May 04, 2025

This week’s issue features insights on making impactful assertions, future-proofing your career in AI, and the essence of proactive employees. Plus, explore strategic thinking principles and the function of strategy.

How to collaborate cross-functionally

April 27, 2025

In this issue, explore effective cross-functional collaboration, prioritization techniques, and the myth of objectivity in strategy. Plus, discover core values for organizational success and insights on leading from the front.

Stop Working for Loser Strategists

April 20, 2025

This issue explores career strategies, leadership insights, and the nuanced relationship between strengths and weaknesses. Gain valuable tips on navigating tech debt, fostering effective communication, and enhancing your qualifications for leadership roles.