The First PM role is demanding, unstable, and often poorly defined. You have to build without specs, sell without marketing, and lead without authority. It’s not a job you inherit — it’s one you invent. And yet, it’s one of the most critical — and most misunderstood — phases in a product’s life.

In this dual talk, Rachel and Montaine share their experience from the trenches. Both have served as First Product in multiple startups, before stepping into Head of Product and CPO roles. With over 20 years of experience each — across early-stage startups and well-known unicorns — they unpack the three essential mindsets to survive (and grow) in this role: craftsman to build, hacker to experiment, diplomat to align.

Most First PMs aren’t hired to lead — they’re hired to fix chaos no one wants to admit exists. This talk sheds light on that reality, offering concrete tools to navigate unclear priorities, test under pressure, challenge founders without losing trust, and recognize when doing less is the smartest move.

Because the First PM doesn’t just build a product — they lay the foundation for everything that comes after.