In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Evens, Product Lead at Google DeepMind, to explore what it truly means to build AI-powered products at scale. Drawing from over a decade of experience, spanning startups, Big Tech, and cutting-edge research, Jonathan shares lessons from developing everything from smart grids to large language model tools.
Key Takeaways:
- From Startups to Scale – PMs wear different hats depending on company stage— role, tactics, stakeholder alignment, and R&D priorities shift dramatically with scale.
- Iterate with Purpose – DeepMind and Google Search launched “AI Overviews” by choosing value over perfection: 6+ months global rollouts trump dogmatic feature builds.
- Balancing Lenses – Product managers must juggle problem-led thinking with tech-led innovation; building for tomorrow’s AI, not today’s limits.
- Define Useful AI – Success metrics vary wildly by use case. What counts as useful in Google Search may look very different in enterprise tools.
- AI on Any Budget – Jonathan offers advice for smaller teams: prototype boldly, leverage your strengths, and master LLMs without heavy engineering overhead to get a sense of what is possible
Jonathan also credits Pragmatic Institute training for helping frame product strategy and the Pragmatic Framework early in his career, a helpful reminder that clarity and prioritization matter more than ever in AI-driven environments.
Guest Bio
Jonathan Evens is a Product Lead at Google DeepMind, with over ten years of experience launching disruptive AI products, from nuclear fusion research platforms to recommender systems and LLM-powered search tools. He’s led the rollout of Gemini-powered “AI Overviews” in Google Search and mentors cross-functional teams in moving fast, testing often, and building intelligent user experiences.
ABOUT PRAGMATIC INSTITUTE
Since 1993, Pragmatic Institute has provided training and professional development for product, design, and data professionals. Our comprehensive methods and Pragmatic Framework equip professionals with the skills to drive innovation, increase customer satisfaction, and boost revenue. We offer online, in-person, and on-demand courses taught by industry experts with decades of practical experience.
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