Advertise on podcast: Think Like Amazon

In this episode of Think Like Amazon, Jorge sits down with Kristiana Corona (executive coach and former Amazon leader) to unpack what true ownership looks like inside high-performing teams, and the invisible beliefs that hold rising leaders back.   They explore powerful insights drawn from Kristiana’s experience coaching tech leaders at scale: ·       The 3-part Ownership Formula every leader should adopt ·       Why “extreme ownership” isn’t about doing more—but doing it better ·       The most common mindset blockers among Amazon leaders (and how to overcome them)   Whether you’re growing your influence or leading others to do the same, this episode will challenge how you define leadership, and what it takes to own your next level.   Mentioned in this episode: -          Free eBook “10 Ownership Mistakes That Hold Amazonians Back - And the Coaching Questions to Break Through”: https://www.worthytolead.co/amazon -          Kristiana Corona on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristianacorona/ -          Video “Greatness” by David Marquet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OqmdLcyES_Q&t=72s -          Connect with Jorge: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorgeluispando/

In this episode of Think Like Amazon, Jorge welcomes back John Rossman, former Amazon executive who led the launch of Amazon Marketplace and author of The Amazon Way and Big Bet Leadership. They dive deep into what it takes to pursue high-ambition strategies in today’s hyper-digital era: Why every company needs a portfolio of big betsHow to avoid falling in love with an idea instead of the customer’s problemWhy writing and debate (Amazon-style) remain the most powerful tools for problem solvingHow individuals (not just leaders) can apply the big bet mindset to their careers Packed with lessons and will leave you asking: “Are you playing it safe, or are you making bold moves that matter?”   Mentioned in this episode: John Rossman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rossman/Big Bet Leadership resources: https://www.bigbetleadership.com/Connect with John: https://johnrossman.com/

In Part 2 of this Think Like Amazon conversation, former Amazon Principal Engineer Steve Huynh returns to explore a different kind of leadership and leading your own life with intention.  Jorge and Steve dive into what it means to truly "Think Like Amazon" beyond business: extracting full value from your environment, being curious by default, and making long-term decisions with clarity.  They discuss the hidden value inside big tech jobs, the trap of living someone else’s script, and how content creation can be a form of service - mentoring your younger self and others just a few steps behind you. This episode challenges you to zoom out and ask: Are you drifting, or are you designing your path?  Mentioned in the episode: - Steve Huynh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/a-life-engineered/  - A Life Engineered on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ALifeEngineered   

Most people think “Think Big” means adding features or scaling up. Steve Huynh, an 18-year Amazon veteran turned content creator, says that’s a trap. In Part 1 of this conversation, Jorge and Steve unpack why real innovation starts with challenging assumptions, not building bigger versions of what already exists. They explore the Amazon mindset behind true invention, the underrated power of clear writing, and how to develop “Think Big” as a career superpower. Whether you're growing your Amazon career or building something new, this episode will reshape how you think about innovation.   Mentioned in the episode: - Steve Huynh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/a-life-engineered/ - A Life Engineered on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ALifeEngineered

What if Amazon’s innovation edge came not from big ideas, but from writing them down? In this episode, Jorge sits down with Marcelo Calbucci, former Amazon Director and author of The PRFAQ Framework, to unpack the writing-first approach Amazon uses to launch new products. They explore why the PRFAQ (Press Release + FAQ) is more than a document. It’s a mindset that drives clarity, focus, and customer obsession.   Whether you're building a product, navigating your Amazon career, or leading a team still stuck in PowerPoint, this episode is packed with practical insights. You’ll learn how to make writing less intimidating, how to start your first PRFAQ, and even how to use the framework to shape your own career.   Mentioned in the episode: – Marcelo Calbucci: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelocalbucci/ – The PRFAQ Framework Book: https://www.theprfaq.com/

What does it mean to lead with purpose, without quitting your job?  In this episode, Jorge sits down with Luis Caballero, former Amazon leader and current VP of Marketing Strategy & Analytics at HelloFresh. Luis shares how launching an internal podcast helped him grow as a marketer, why he took on the role of President of “Latinos at Amazon,” and how Amazon’s “single-threaded leadership” model shaped his career.  From leading technical teams as a non-technical person to finding purpose through side initiatives, this conversation is packed with actionable insights on growth, ownership, and impact.  Mentioned in the episode:  Luis Caballero: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luisalbertocaballero/  "The Good Enough Job” book https://www.amazon.com/Good-Enough-Job-Reclaiming-Life/dp/059353896X 

Jorge is officially taking over as the new host of Think Like Amazon. But before diving into fresh conversations, he went back and studied the top episodes. What he found is timeless leadership lessons from insiders who built and scaled Amazon.  In this kickoff episode, he breaks down 7 powerful insights (from earning trust to building real customer obsession) that every ambitious leader should hear. Whether you lead a team or just want to level up your thinking, these takeaways will change how you operate. 1. (02:50) Long-Term Results Mean Bringing People with You (Ronak Patel, ex-Director of Logistics) 2. (06:26) Customer Obsession Goes Beyond Data (Jennifer Arthur, 16-year Amazon veteran) 3. (11:58) "Working Backwards" Means Embracing Hard Truths (Colin Bryar, former Technical Assistant to Jeff Bezos) 4. (14:06) Earning Trust Can Be Systematic (Justin Maner, ex-Director Amazon Devices) 5. (20:56) Simple Solutions Often Win (Dave Anderson, former GM) 6. (24:21) Ownership Has Levels (Ethan Evans, former Amazon VP) 7.  (28:21) Say YES to Get "Lucky" (Ronak Patel, most listened episode so far)   Mentioned in the episode: ·       Ronak Patel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronak-patel-nashville/ ·       Jennifer Arthur: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-arthur-460768/ ·       Colin Bryar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinbryar/ ·       Justin Maner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinmaner/ ·       Dave Anderson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scarletink/ ·       Ethan Evans: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethanevansvp/ ·       Follow us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/think-like-amazon-podcast

Tyler Wallis spent seven years at Amazon, leading teams in Consumer Electronics, Home Improvement, and Marketing for Amazon Canada. In that same time, he scaled from intern to team leader. After Amazon, Tyler founded TripleLine, an agency helping “better-for-you” CPG brands scale profitably on Amazon, and launched this podcast (Think Like Amazon) to share insights on applying Amazon’s leadership principles beyond the company.   In this episode, it was now Jorge’s turn to interview Tyler, as he shares his journey from corporate leader to entrepreneur, reflecting on key lessons and practical takeaways: How Amazon’s Ownership principle shaped his career, including driving to Canada to gather critical data firsthand.The transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship and how Amazon’s principles guide his business approach.Why being a generalist prepared him for entrepreneurship’s diverse challenges.Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, including building a diverse skill set within your current role.  Whether you're curious about Amazon’s culture, entrepreneurship, or scaling a business, this conversation is packed with actionable insights.   Mentioned in the episode: Tyler’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tylermwallis/ Learn more about Triple Line: https://triplelinebrands.com/ Profit and Purpose Podcast: www.profitandpurpose.show/   Follow us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/think-like-amazon-podcast

Jorge Pando spent eight years at Amazon, holding key leadership roles across retail and advertising, most recently as Head of Product for Amazon Advertising. In addition to his corporate responsibilities, Jorge developed and scaled the "Effective at Amazon" program, which grew from a side project to an initiative impacting over 70,000 Amazonians across 60 countries. Now, Jorge provides courses and coaching to help business leaders improve their effectiveness in work and life. In this episode, Jorge shares his unique career journey, insights into Amazon’s leadership principles, and lessons learned from scaling impactful programs. You’ll hear Jorge discuss: How Learn and Be Curious fueled his transitions between diverse roles at Amazon, from general management to advertising innovation.The process of developing and growing the "Effective at Amazon" program—and how it shaped his personal and professional growth.The importance of balancing curiosity and execution to deliver results while driving personal development.Why side projects can build your brand, expand your network, and open unexpected doors in your career.Practical advice for integrating continuous learning into your life and workplace.Whether you're interested in Amazon's mechanisms, leadership development, or strategies for pursuing passion alongside a corporate career, you're sure to glean valuable insights from this conversation with Jorge. Mentioned in the Episode: Jorge's Website: https://theeffective.co/Jorge on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorgelpando/Follow us on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/company/think-like-amazon-podcast/

Ronak spent over 9 years at Amazon, where he led large businesses across Fulfillment, Ultra-fast delivery, Real Estate, Process Improvement, and Last Mile Delivery. Ronak was also the youngest Regional Director in Amazon history, with placement into Amazon’s highest volume, most critical region of fulfillment. After nearly a decade with the company, Ronak left Amazon to join Odeko as Chief Supply Chain Officer.    In this episode, Ronak shares how his career in operations leadership quickly unfolded and the leadership principles that helped him achieve success in the programs, centers, and regions he led. You’ll hear Ronak share how Deliver Results rounded out his perspective on maximizing the collective impact of Amazon’s leadership principles, how leadership transparency helped him turn around a 2,800-employee site, and how, with the right focus and motivation, leaders can help their teams operate at a high level, whether at Amazon or in any business arena.      Ronak on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronak-patel-nashville/   Follow us on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/company/think-like-amazon-podcast/

Jennifer spent over 16 years at Amazon across various roles that included Financial Analyst, Product Manager, Head of Vendor Management, and Category Leader. During this time, Jennifer’s teams helped create new input metrics and ask questions to evolve Amazon’s use of data in the quest for operational excellence. Jennifer has since taken this ability to lead through data and questioning to launch a marketplace service for BuildDirect Technologies and consult various consumer brands in their Amazon and e-commerce negotiations and growth strategies.    In this episode, Jennifer shares context behind her career journey and how she used preceding roles to prepare for later leadership roles as Amazon director and executive at Build Direct. She also shared practical examples from her experience asking questions and identifying data to improve business operations.    You’ll also hear Jennifer share:   ·        How increased transparency into variable product costs quickly clarified needed actions ·        Why Dive Deep is such a fundamental principle for managing a P&L and marketplace business ·        How listening to key customer anecdotes helped create a better assortment strategy in the Watches category ·        How leaders can apply the Dive Deep principle when moving to a completely new business ·        How to improve negotiations with the right use of questions and data     Jennifer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-arthur-460768/ Jennifer’s email: [email protected] Follow us on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/company/think-like-amazon-podcast/

In part two of this 2-episode special with Steve Frazier, a former 20-year Amazon VP, we pick up in talking about how to use data, focus on inputs, and exercise strong judgement in prioritizing your team’s attention in a scaling business.   You’ll hear Steve share:  ·        Why businesses should focus on operational performance reviews, even on day 1 ·        The 2 magical metrics that helped Amazon stay focused on the right actions as it scaled ·        The litmus test for a leader to know they have their team focused on the right inputs ·        Why Amazon focuses on the smallest defects in performance ·        Learning from both successes and failures ·        How being a reporter for The Wall Street Journal helped shape Steve’s approach in business   Steve on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sfrazier/ Follow us on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/company/think-like-amazon-podcast/

Steve spent over 20 years as a VP at Amazon where he launched multiple businesses and led organizations around the globe. During his Amazon career, Steve spent time as the country manager for Amazon UK and Amazon China, in addition to roles leading North American Retail expansion and the rollout of international consumer programs.    In this first installment of our two-episode conversation with Steve, we discuss Amazon’s approach to expanding businesses internationally and what it was like to lead international teams during Amazon’s earlier years. Steve shares how Amazon prioritized efforts to launch internationally, including a few mistakes made along the way and the mental models that ultimately led to Amazon’s international success.    You’ll also hear Steve share:    ·        How to manage risk and capital expenditure when setting the pace for international expansion ·        When to copy past models vs. create a localized strategy ·        The four decision buckets that need should be covered when launching a new country, and the relative Importance of getting each category right ·        A few costly mistakes, and how Amazon learned from these experiences ·        How to adapt a launch strategy in step with the growing product or service offering of your business ·        Practices for disseminating learning during a launch in order to de-risk future market launches       Steve on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sfrazier/   Follow us on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/company/think-like-amazon-podcast/

Umer spent nearly 12 years at Amazon as a software development leader across a diverse set of businesses including Amazon’s data warehouse, reverse logistics, Prime Now program, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods Market. Umer left Amazon in early 2018 to co-found Veeve, a contact-less shopping checkout solution, and in early 2021, Umer took on the role of CTO at fabric.inc, a high-growth startup providing headless commerce solutions for retail businesses.   In this interview, Umer shares how Amazon mechanisms helped him scale businesses to hundreds of employees and billions in revenue. Umer discusses how he identifies the right objectives and mechanisms needed to fit the core goals and lifecycle of a businesses and when to think about improving or changing and pivot existing mechanisms. You’ll also here examples of three mechanisms that Umer used at Amazon and has successfully applied in leading tech startups: Corrections of Errors, PRFAQs, and Change Management. Umer also addresses how mechanisms can help with VC fundraising and in building company culture.     Mentioned in the Episode:    fabric Blog: https://resources.fabric.inc/blog Umer on Twitter: @umersadiq    Follow us on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/company/think-like-amazon-podcast/

Mandy spent over 13 years at Amazon across a number of roles including as leader of product management, marketing, and retail buying teams, running Prime Pantry, leading the supply chain function for Amazon Private Label, and leading worldwide employee performance management programs. Since Amazon, Mandy has joined The Bouqs, an innovative e-commerce floral delivery service, where she is now VP of People and applying her input focused approach to driving improvements to organizational health.    In this episode, Mandy shares how gaining broad functional experience in the first half of a career can be a key asset as a leader, the 3 pillars to becoming an effective multi-function leader, how to use inputs to make decisions at a large scale, and why organizations should collect more employee data to navigate successfully through changing work environments. If you’re trying to scale your impact, are involved in people management, or perhaps are just curious about how to leverage your past functional experience, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.   Mentioned in the episode: The Bouqs:  Bouqs.com Mandy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandybottorff/   Follow us on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/company/think-like-amazon-podcast/