Lenny's Podcast · September 21, 2025

'From managing people to managing AI: The leadership skills everyone needs

with Julie Zhuo

Discover how traditional leadership frameworks apply to managing AI systems and teams in 2025. Julie Zhuo reveals the 'sturdy while flexible' management approach that helps leaders navigate constant technological change. Learn the 'diagnose with data, treat with design' framework for solving complex problems, plus unconventional strategies like eliminating product manager roles to build faster, more autonomous teams. Essential insights for leaders adapting their management style for the AI era.

Featured insight

Don't automatically hire product managers - removing them forces engineers to think about product requirements and user experience themselves, leading to better ownership and faster decisions. — Julie Zhuo

Best for: Engineering managers transitioning to AI-first teams, Startup founders scaling technical teams, Product leaders adapting to AI workflows

Loading the full episode…