Beyond the viral TikTok personality tests, Samantha Lewis delivers cutting-edge insights into product counsel work at a company that's been building AI since 2017 - well before it was trendy. With Canva's community using AI tools over 18 billion times, Sam has become a thought leader on navigating the complex intersection of law, privacy, and AI-native product development.
What makes this conversation essential listening:
Sam reveals how legal teams at AI-first companies don't just manage risk - they can drive growth.
Three Key Takeaways:
1. Trust is the Ultimate Competitive Advantage
In an era where AI capabilities are rapidly commoditising, trust becomes the differentiator. Sam reveals how Canva aims to be one of the world's most trusted platforms, this isn't just about compliance - it's about building products people love and companies trust.
2. Privacy Instincts Are Non-Negotiable in AI-First Companies
Sam makes it clear: "I don't think it's possible to advise on AI without understanding privacy." AI is built on data, and privacy laws determine what's fair, legal, and ethical - making strong privacy instincts essential for knowing when to green light and when to pause in AI-native environments.
3. Product Counsel Is Risk-Aware, Not Risk-Averse
Sam champions taking a risk-aware rather than risk-averse approach. To Sam this means asking the right questions, reducing unnecessary friction, and helping teams figure out how to move forward safely - often saying "how can we" instead of "we can't."
The conversation touches on Canva's pioneering "AI everywhere" culture (where AI impact is now part of performance reviews), the history of the Product Counsel Role (from its early beginnings at Google in the early 2000s), Sam's love for loud parenting, and her admiration for @sophworkbaby on Instagram (a fellow Aussie and ex-Googler) delivering plain unfiltered career insights.
If you found this episode interesting, please do like (5*), subscribe, comment, and share!
It helps the show rank and reach more people.. We appreciate your support!
Alex & Tom
Share this post