Ever thought about stepping into product management—just to try something totally different from engineering?

That's exactly where Monte found himself. After years in dev and even engineering leadership, he made a move he thought would lead to more ownership and product vision. But once he was in the role… something felt off.

In this coaching session, we unpack what actually happens when you chase product titles inside companies—and why the version you're offered often isn't what you imagined. Monte thought he was stepping forward. Instead, he realized he was just managing user stories and process artifacts.

If you've ever wondered, "Is this really what the role is supposed to be?"—you're not alone.

Work with me: https://healthydeveloper.com

In this real coaching session, I talk with John, a developer-turned-manager, who's navigating the messy middle of leadership. He's caught between two teams, two continents, and shifting expectations.

Sound familiar?

We dig into:

• The difference between managing people and leading culture
• Why growth-stage teams break without intentional leadership
• How to lead without authority (especially when others outrank you)
• The startup → scale-up trap most companies fall into
• Ways to influence product direction by fixing culture first

This is one of the most honest, practical coaching conversations I've had on team culture, dev leadership, and transitioning into management. If you're a senior dev or manager trying to scale impact without losing your soul, you'll get a ton out of this.

Work with me: https://healthydeveloper.com

Ever feel like tech work has turned you into a robot? Just crank out code, stay in your lane, and don't ask too many questions? Yeah—same.

In this real, unfiltered coaching session, I work with Charlie—a creative technologist who's been wrestling with how to bring *real* artistry back into his work. After running his own 3D animation business and helping other creatives thrive, he's now stuck between paying the bills with soul-draining contracts... and figuring out how to build a career where he actually gets to make things that matter. We talk about time management, identity, and how hard it is to self-promote when your creativity feels personal.

If you're a developer or designer who's ever wondered "How do I get back to making stuff I care about?", this one's for you.

Work with me: https://healthydeveloper.com