When things feel uncertain, many companies default to command-and-control leadership. It feels faster, safer, and more decisive. But is it actually effective? In this episode, Teresa Torres and Petra Wille unpack the real role of command and control in modern product organizations. They explore why it keeps resurfacing, where it might work (if ever), and why it often breaks down at scale. Through practical examples—from burning house analogies to real-world product teams—they challenge the idea that strong leadership means centralized decision-making. Instead, they make the case for a more nuanced approach: setting direction, building trust, and enabling teams to contribute their expertise. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance speed, alignment, and autonomy in your team, this episode will help you rethink where you sit on the spectrum.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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