Session Blocker
In 60 minutes, this hands-on session will load you up with actionable insights to kickstart and level up your personal brand on social media.
This presentation is a no-fluff, deeply personal exploration of what it really takes to move from the stability of a corporate job to the rollercoaster ride of a start-up. Vladimir Baranov, a founder, coach, and veteran of fintech and space-tech startups, shares the mindset shifts, tactical preparations, and gut-check moments that define this transition. You'll get a candid look at what it's like to go from having a clearly defined role to wearing every hat. He breaks down how to prepare mentally and financially, build early momentum, and learn by doing. Topics include managing risk, building your “why,” navigating ambiguity, and learning how to sell (yes, even if you hate it). Whether you're considering joining a startup or starting your own, this talk will help you assess your readiness, and your appetite. It’s not about a perfect plan; it’s about momentum, resilience, and radical ownership. Full of founder truths, lived lessons, and a few laughs.
Many UX designers dream of turning their expertise into a profitable side hustle but struggle with where to start. In this session, I’ll break down practical, actionable strategies for monetizing UX skills beyond a traditional job, whether through mentoring, consulting, cohort-based courses, workshops, or digital products.
In this session I will share real-life insights from my journey of scaling MarziUXD into a thriving UX education business.
For years, product managers and other professionals have been conditioned to follow a linear career path—climbing the corporate ladder step by step, often constrained by company politics and rigid promotion cycles. But the landscape has changed. No longer do ambitious professionals have to wait for a title bump to advance their careers.
In this session, we introduce the "Career Lattice"—a dynamic and flexible approach to career growth that allows individuals to expand their skills, impact, and income beyond traditional promotions. We’ll share how product leaders, executives, and professionals can create new opportunities on their own terms—leveraging side projects, consulting, cross-functional collaborations, and strategic skill-building to shape fulfilling, financially rewarding careers without leaving the security of their full-time job.
Key Takeaways:
- Why career growth isn’t just about promotions—and how focusing solely on climbing the ladder can hold you back.
- The Career Lattice framework—how moving sideways, diagonally, or even taking a step back can open bigger doors.
- Real-life success stories—case studies of professionals who have successfully navigated non-linear career growth.
- Actionable strategies—three practical steps attendees can take to start applying the Career Lattice approach immediately.
Audience Engagement & Format:
Storytelling & Case Studies – Examples of individuals who have successfully built careers outside the traditional mold.Interactive Reflection – Guided prompts for attendees to assess their own career aspirations and opportunities.Actionable Framework – Attendees will walk away with a practical roadmap to implement the Career Lattice approach in their own careers.
This session is perfect for professionals looking to expand their career potential without sacrificing their current stability. Attendees will leave empowered with a fresh perspective, tangible next steps, and the confidence to take control of their career trajectory—whether through internal moves, side gigs, or passion projects.
