Episode 3 - Rajan Trivedi

In this episode, I interview Rajan Trivedi, a seasoned product leader who has made significant transitions across various industries. Rajan shares his unique framework for career transitions, focusing on the utility of making switches focused on either industry or function. He delves into his journey from consulting to the public sector, a startup in Kenya, and finally to product management roles at Prudential and Chegg. Rajan also discusses his changing risk appetite, the nuances of being a people manager, and the critical role of data in driving product decisions. Don’t miss this in-depth discussion on career growth, adaptability, and leadership.


00:00 Introduction to the Push-Pull Podcast
02:16 Interview with Rajan Trivedi Begins
03:06 Rajan's Early Career and Education
03:46 Consulting Experience and Public Sector Work
05:51 Evaluating Career Options and Transition to Public Policy
12:38 Working in the Obama Administration
13:33 Millennium Challenge Corporation: Mission and Impact
19:40 Transition to a Startup in Nairobi, Kenya
24:04 Joining M-Changa and the FinTech Journey
29:24 Reflections on Grad School and Career Clarity
33:14 Unique Path to Product Management
33:52 Grad School Experience and Thesis
36:11 Breaking into Product Management
38:07 Journey at Prudential
49:01 Transition to HomeLight
53:45 Joining Chegg and Career Growth
59:39 Reflections on Risk and Career Transitions
01:04:33 Current Endeavors and Final Thoughts

Shoot thoughts, questions, ideas, or intros to varun@pushpullpodcast.com!