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About Maisy Samuelson
Product Leader, Innovator, and Team Builder
A Passion for Product Management Excellence
As a Senior Director of Product with deep expertise in Trust & Safety, growth, and data-driven consumer products, Maisy brings a unique blend of technical acumen and strategic vision to every challenge.
She's renowned for building high-performance teams that tackle complex challenges in online safety and user experience, while championing clear documentation and empowering professionals transitioning into product roles.
Trust & Safety Expert
Deep expertise in online safety, content moderation, and user protection strategies
Growth Strategist
Data-driven approach to scaling consumer products and user engagement
Team Builder
Passionate about mentoring and developing high-performing product teams
Leading Trust & Safety at Pinterest
Transforming Pinterest into a safer, more positive corner of the internet
01
Team Building
Built Pinterest's Trust & Safety organization from a small team to a robust cross-functional powerhouse
02
Comprehensive Coverage
Oversaw spam prevention, account security, content moderation, teen safety, privacy, and legal compliance
03
Global Impact
Transformed platform safety, positively impacting millions of users worldwide through innovative solutions
Early Leadership Roles & Startup Impact
1
LinkedIn - Founding PM
Led product teams as one of the earliest PMs, launching foundational features like Company Profiles and data standardization that became core platform elements
2
First Floor Labs - Co-founder
Co-founded and directed a Palo Alto startup accelerator, supporting early-stage internet and mobile ventures with strategic guidance and resources
3
Couchsurfing - Interim Head
Spearheaded complete platform rebuild, successfully launching responsive web and mobile applications in just 6 months under tight deadlines
Education & Lifelong Learning
Stanford Excellence
MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business (2009-2011), blending cutting-edge business acumen with technology innovation. During undergraduate studies, co-founded and led the women's squash team to varsity status.
Knowledge Sharing
Committed to continuous learning and democratizing product knowledge. Co-authored a foundational product management resource available at learnproduct.com, helping professionals transition into product roles.
Leadership Philosophy & Team Culture
Maisy's leadership approach centers on nurturing talent and creating environments where teams thrive under pressure while maintaining psychological safety.
Mentorship Focus
Believes in nurturing talent through clear communication, active mentoring, and creating opportunities for professional growth
Crisis Leadership
Known for hands-on leadership during high-pressure situations, including "Code Red" meetings to tackle urgent Trust & Safety challenges
Inclusive Culture
Passionate about creating inclusive environments where diverse perspectives drive better product outcomes and innovation
Personal Journey & Sabbatical
After an incredible 9+ year journey at Pinterest, Maisy made the thoughtful decision to take an extended sabbatical starting mid-2024. This intentional pause allows her to focus on family, personal growth, and reflection on her remarkable career trajectory.
She reflects on the privilege of working alongside inspiring colleagues and the crucial importance of work-life balance in sustaining long-term impact and meaningful contributions to the tech industry.
"Taking time to reflect and recharge isn't just personal—it's essential for sustained innovation and leadership in our fast-paced industry."
Recognitions & Recommendations
Exceptional Leadership: "Praised by peers and mentors for remarkable intellect, unwavering initiative, and inspirational leadership qualities that shine in both athletic and technology environments."
Program Innovation: "Credited with catalyzing Stanford women's squash program's transformation to varsity status and pioneering key product innovations at industry leaders like LinkedIn and Pinterest."
Active Listening: "Valued for exceptional listening skills and unique ability to translate user feedback and stakeholder input into meaningful product improvements and strategic initiatives."
Beyond Work: Community & Mentorship
Active Mentorship
Dedicates significant time to mentoring aspiring product managers and startup founders, helping them navigate complex career transitions and industry challenges
Resource Creation
Co-created comprehensive resources and vibrant communities designed to democratize product management knowledge and industry best practices
Ecosystem Engagement
Actively engages with the broader tech ecosystem through accelerator programs, speaking opportunities, and strategic thought leadership initiatives
Connect with Maisy Samuelson
Based in San Francisco Bay Area, open to meaningful conversations and collaborations post-sabbatical
Professional Network
Follow her journey and insights on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/maisy
Learning Resources
Explore learnproduct.com for co-authored product management resources and comprehensive guides