Michael Cerdá is a veteran product and technology leader who has served as Chief Product Officer and executive at several of the world’s most influential companies. As VP of Product for Disney Streaming, he helped launch Disney+ to over 100 million subscribers. Previously, he was Chief Product Officer at Goldman Sachs’ Marcus division, Chief Experience Officer at Live Nation/Ticketmaster, and Director of Product at Facebook. He has also founded multiple venture-backed startups and holds two technology patents. His new book, Build Something: A Journey of Hard-Won Lessons and Impactful Outcomes, reveals the untold true stories behind some of the most transformative technologies of our time.

In this episode, Jason and Michael discuss:

• Michael's career journey across Disney, Facebook, Live Nation, and Goldman Sachs
• The role of cross-functional collaboration in successful product development
• How the idea for Disney+ Premier Access became a billion-dollar pivot
• Why authentic leadership and team culture matter more than credentials
• Key themes from his new book, Build Something

Key Takeaways:

• Michael’s early pitch to stream theatrical releases on Disney+ was initially brushed aside, yet it redefined content delivery during a global crisis. It’s a testament to how quietly courageous ideas can shift industry paradigms.
• What you build matters—but who you build it with matters more. Meaningful innovation stems from intentional collaboration, where human connection drives product strength.
• Real accountability thrives not through enforcement, but through mutual respect and empowered teamwork. When individuals take ownership of one another, excellence becomes a shared standard.
• The heart of product leadership lies in empathy. This insight challenges the myth of dominance in boardrooms, spotlighting the underestimated power of quiet contributors and diverse viewpoints.
• Great leaders are great coaches. By creating a psychologically safe environment, they unlock not just productivity but personal transformation and authentic partnership.

“What you build is only as strong as how you build it and who you build it with.”

- Michael Cerdá

Connect with Michael Cerdá:

Website: https://www.build-something.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcerda/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michaelcerda

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imcerdafied/

Michael’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DY5CXH79

Connect with Steve and Jason:

LinkedIn: Jason or Steve

Website: Rewire, Inc.: Transformed Thinking

Email: [email protected]

Show notes by: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.