Becoming An Engineering Manager Without A Technical Background
In this episode, we explore how to become an effective engineering manager—even without a technical background. We’ll unpack what the role truly entails, how to leverage your strengths in communication, strategy, and people management, and ways to bridge technical gaps with curiosity and trust. Whether you’re transitioning from another field or stepping into your first EM role, this episode will help you lead confidently and earn the respect of your engineering team.
06:52: Why technical expertise is helpful but not essential
11:18: What is the role of an EM?
13:50: Non-technical strengths
17:19: Bridging the technical gap
21:21: Earning respect from engineers
25:02: Learning / Growth strategies
28:48: Impostor syndrome
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34:23
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34:23
Performance Management As An Engineering Manager
In this episode, we’ll dig into how managers can balance output, impact, and quality, set meaningful goals, and coach engineers toward growth — not just manage them. We’ll also tackle how to handle underperformance, keep top talent motivated, and build teams that stay engaged without burning out.
02:04 - Why do we measure engineering performance?
03:40 - How to measure engineering performance
11:08 - SMART goals
18:39 - Handling underperformers
27:00 - Motivating and retaining high performers
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34:06
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34:06
Interviewing And Hiring Engineers
Hiring great engineers is one of the most important—and difficult—parts of an engineering manager’s job. In this episode, we break down the full hiring journey: from writing effective job descriptions and structuring interviews to evaluating candidates and making the final call. We’ll also touch on building inclusive processes, avoiding common hiring pitfalls, and how to spot not just skill, but potential. Whether you're scaling a team or making your first hire, this episode is your playbook for hiring with intention.
02:04 Recruiting
08:13 Interview process
16:48 Team dynamics and collaboration
32:14 Cultural and values alignment
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37:12
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37:12
Managing A Remote Team Of Engineers
Remote work is here to stay—but managing a distributed engineering team comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. In this episode, we dive into what it takes to lead remote engineers effectively. From building trust and maintaining team cohesion to running productive async meetings and handling time zone differences, we cover the key habits and tools that make remote engineering teams thrive. Whether you're leading your first remote team or refining your remote leadership style, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply right away.
02:56 Setting yourself up for success
03:20 Communication
08:46 Building trust
30:30 Collaboration and innovation
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34:33
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34:33
Working With Product Managers and Stakeholders
Episode Notes
Engineering managers sit at the intersection of tech, product, and people—which means collaboration is key. In this episode, we explore how to build strong working relationships with product managers and stakeholders. From setting clear expectations and communicating progress to managing competing priorities and navigating tough conversations, we’ll share strategies to align teams and drive outcomes. Whether you're in a startup or a large org, this episode will help you lead more effectively across functions.
03:45 Product managers
10:58 Designers
18:57 Other stakeholders
22:40 How to build strong relationships
Back after a two-year hiatus, engineering leaders Emma Bostian and Kelly Vaughn return for Season 7 of the Ladybug Podcast, giving you a deep dive into all things engineering leadership.
With nearly 1 million total listens, Ladybug Podcast covers tech, career, and code, bringing unique viewpoints from a variety of guests and co-hosts.
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