Why do some product teams thrive while others get stuck in endless meetings and slow decision-making?

In this episode, we sit down with Iolao Cocco, an experienced UX leader, to explore the hidden dynamics that make or break cross-functional collaboration.

Iolao shares his firsthand experience of working in two contrasting environments—one where process and approvals slowed everything down, and another where a simple shift in team structure led to rapid execution and better outcomes. The difference wasn’t just in tools or methodologies—it was in how teams worked together.

We dive into five key insights that challenge conventional wisdom:
✅ Bottom-up Agile works better than top-down Agile – Agile is most effective when teams self-organize rather than having rigid processes imposed from above.
✅ Big projects can move faster than small optimizations – Minor changes often get buried in approvals, while large initiatives with clear ownership can progress rapidly.
✅ Three decision-makers in the room are faster than one reporting up – Product, design, and engineering working together in real time leads to faster, better decisions.
✅ Transparency isn’t a mindset—it’s a structural issue – When teams are set up for collaboration from the start, transparency happens naturally.
✅ True UX-driven design starts with the problem, not the technology – The best products solve real user problems first, instead of working within existing technical constraints.

This episode is for you, if you’re a product or design leader looking to speed up decision-making, cut through unnecessary process, and create truly empowered teams.

🎧 Listen now and start rethinking how your teams work!

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