The Dunning-Kruger Effect: Understanding Overconfidence and Misjudgment

In this episode of The Product Handbook, we explore the Dunning-Kruger Effect — that sneaky cognitive bias where a little knowledge can lead to a lot of overconfidence.

You’ll learn:

• What causes the Dunning-Kruger Effect — and why it’s especially dangerous in product management

• How overconfidence can distort forecasts, derail strategy, and lead to risky bets

• Techniques to recognize and counteract this bias in yourself and your teams — from fostering intellectual humility to building feedback loops and embracing a beginner’s mindset

• Why “knowing what you don’t know” is one of the most underrated leadership superpowers

Whether you're managing complex products, building new skills, or preparing for interviews, this episode will help you sharpen your self-awareness — and lead with more clarity and credibility.