Before the pandemic hit, one of my favorite parts of the summer was going to the Agile Conference and doing podcast interviews with the speakers and thought leaders who were there. Each year, one of the very best moments of each Agile Conference was when I would get to sit down and talk with Troy Magennis. 

It’s been two summers. 

I miss talking to Troy.

So I reached out and he was kind enough to spare some time for an interview. 

During the conversation, we cover a number of topics, including:

Is it actually possible for a team to become predictable? 
What gets in the way of predictability? 
What is BlockedApp and why did he create it?
Which constraints are the most important ones to start with? 
Who is responsible for acting as the scientist of flow? 
Why are we still so focused on utilization and output instead of results?
Why do we all need to know CPR?

There is more, but you get the idea. Even if those aren’t questions that keep you up at night, I promise that you are going to learn something valuable by listening to this podcast and that it will keep you engaged the whole way through because Troy is brilliant.

Links:
Focused Objective: https://www.focusedobjective.com/w/
BlockedApp: https://blockedapp.com

This is Lean by Nicklas Modig and Par Pär Åhlström https://amzn.to/2Y3tUeD

Contacting Troy:
Focused Objective: https://www.focusedobjective.com/contact-us
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troymagennis/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/t_magennis

Can Teams Actually Achieve Predictability? w/ Troy Magennis

In Elizabeth Harrin’s latest book Managing Multiple Projects: How project managers can balance priorities, manage expectations and increase productivity, she draws on her 20+ years providing training, education, and mentoring in the project management field to take on a problem all of us face. When you have too many projects on your plate, and all of them are high priority, how do you find you get the most important work done without losing yourself in the process? While the book is project management-centric, the tools and skills Harrin offers are applicable not just for career project managers, but anyone who finds themself juggling more projects (work or otherwise) than the hours in the day will accommodate.

In this interview, Elizabeth shares a few of the key ideas from the book and we dig into some of the techniques she employs to manage her own workload in a way that still allows her to be present and show up for the rest of her life as well. 

While many of the interviews I get to do focus on particular aspects of project management or agile, this interview has valuable ideas and techniques for everyone - not just those on a project management career path. 

Managing Multiple Projects
https://amzn.to/3uEQwiX

Project Management Rebels
https://projectmanagementrebels.com

Contacting Elizabeth
Website: https://elizabeth-harrin.com
Amazon Page: https://amzn.to/3cbWykH
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethharrin/
Blog: https://RebelsGuideToPM.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Rebelsguidetoprojectmanagement  
Twitter: https://twitter.com/OtobosGroup

Managing Multiple Project with Elizabeth Harrin

So much has been changing in how we work over the past few years that it can be tough to keep track of everything. There has been an increased focus on product management as companies move from a project-based approach to a product-based approach. Some organizations are still trying to get their feet with agile, while others have decided that their teams no longer need a Scrum Master (very bad idea - IMHO). And more recently, there has been an increased focus on the role of Technical Program Manager. 

When you check out the job postings for these gigs, you’ll see a bit of variety, but some things they often have in common are that this person should have experience managing projects, programs, and portfolios in a traditional approach; experience working, leading, and coaching Agile teams; experience working as a software developer; and sometimes also experience working in product management. If project managers were superheroes, this would be all of the Avengers in one person. It’s a big ask.

In this episode of the podcast, my friend Jeff Howey joins me to talk about what he’s been seeing in market as companies are listing jobs for a Technical Program Manager. We dig into why this has become a thing, whether it is even possible to find all this in one person, how it might impact organizations, and how you can get started filling whatever gaps you may have so that you can maintain the ability to be competitive in the job market. 

If you’d like to contact Jeff Howey.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffhowey/

The Rise of the Technical Program Manager w Jeff Howey

During this interview Zach Stone shares stories about what it has been like to be a remote Scrum Master working with a team based in Ukraine while it was being invaded by Russia.  How do you engage with and support a team that is trying to build software in the middle of a war zone? What do you say to management when they want to know if you’ll make the release and you are just trying to figure out if your team members are alive?

We also explore other ways that the job of being a Scrum Master has changed as a result of the pandemic. Zach has had to find completely new ways to show up for his teams and he shares some of them during our conversation. This interview is rich with ideas about what it means to be a Scrum Master in a very volatile world. I’m deeply honored that Zach was willing to let me interview him about this topic. 

Please Listen.

Contacting Zach
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stonezach/
Email: zstone@redkiteproject.com

Leading Teams in Crisis w Zach Stone

A few weeks ago while I was teaching a CSM class, I got a Slack message from Ron Quartel pointing me to a tweet by Ryan Ripley. The tweet said “If you are sitting in a Scrum Training class and the trainer starts teaching Story Points, you should 1. Get up. 2. Demand Your Money Back, and 3. Walk out. You're wasting your time. 

Here is a link to the tweet: https://bit.ly/3XsfPAP

I should mention I was just about to cover Story Points and I used Ryan's tweet in class as part of our conversation.

As soon as I saw Ryan's tweet, I DM'd him asking if we could do a podcast about it. I did this because A) I have a lot of respect for Ryan and value his opinion, B) earlier in my career I spent about 4 years fighting against Story Points, C) I do teach them in class because I believe that (used properly) they can be incredibly valuable to a Scrum Team, and D) I love getting into debates on topics I feel strongly about with really smart people who might be able to change my mind

So this podcast is Ryan and I talking through his reason for throwing shade on Story Points, my reasons for standing up for them, and the reasons I feel comfortable saying that we are aligned about why Story Points are good AND evil.

This podcast was originally recorded in video. If you'd prefer that version you can find it here: https://youtu.be/-ja1oFv5Et0

Contacting Ryan:
Web: https://AgileforHumans.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AgileforHumans
Fixing Your Scrum by Ryan Ripley and Todd Miller: https://amzn.to/3Qyjs5S
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanripley/

Story Points Are Good AND Evil with Ryan Ripley

The Future of Project Management
 
This episode features Howard Sublett as we discuss where Project Management and Agile are headed in the future. Howard is the former CEO of the Scrum Alliance. He’s been working in the space for years and has been doing consulting work since leaving SA. During the conversation we explore how the agile transformation space has been changing, some of the issues organizations are having with agile coaching, and where things are headed with the intersection of agile and traditional project management. 

Habitat for Humanity
During the interview, Howard mentions his volunteer work for Habitat for Humanity. If you are interested in learning more about it:
https://secure.habitat.org/

Contacting Howard
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardsublett/
Email: howardsublett@gmail.com

The Future of Agile Project Management w Howard Sublett

In the classes I teach and the podcasts I record I talk frequently about how deeply Sun Tzu’s The Art of War has impacted the way I understand the opportunities that show up in my life. Once you get past the title, you can begin to understand how it is really a book about collaboration. I have MANY translations of the Art of War in my apartment but none of them have reshaped my brain as profoundly as the ones by Gary Gagliardi. His book The Amazing Secrets of Sun Tzu's The Art of War: The Mysteries of History's Most Powerful Strategy helped me to understand the work on a completely different level and was the basis for my Five Meaasures Canvas tool.

And, he is the guest on this episode of the podcast!!!!

If you are a fan of the Art of War or are curious about how a book called The Art of War could actually be about collaboration, this podcast is for you. 

I also want to say that I am so grateful to Gary for being willing to share his time with me and tolerate my questions. He definitely took me to school during this interview. 

I hope you will enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed making it.

Links from the Interview
The Amazing Secrets of Sun Tzu's The Art of War


Contacting Gary Gagliardi
Amazon Author Page: https://bit.ly/3CHgJkh
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyjgagliardi/
Web: https://scienceofstrategy.org/main/  and http://www.garygagliardi.com
SubStack: https://practicalstrategy.substack.com
Email: gagliardi.gary@gmail.com

The Art of War with Gary Gagliardi

There seems to be a current trend where organizations that say they are doing PI planning or quarterly planning are making a decision for the teams about what must be delivered in the time box. The teams just accept the commitment because they either feel they do not have the agency to push back and say no to some of it or are too busy trying to finish up their last overcommitment to look at new work. So, they begin the new time box already behind and then assess the new work only to (shockingly) learn it is too much. Then they divide it up by the number of Sprints or weeks and that is how they plan out how to get it all done. Most of the time this results in developing a habitual practice of carrying work from one sprint to the next, continually trying to recover from the last overcommitment so they can get to work on the new overcommitment. 
 
In this episode, The Agile Bear, Nigel Baker, joins me to sort through why this is happening, the harm it causes, and ways to fix it.

Video Version
If you'd prefer to view the video version of this interview: http://tinyurl.com/2eu5yucw

Contacting Nigel
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nigelebaker

Fixing Your Quarterly Planning W Nigel Baker

Gil Broza joins me for a podcast about his new book, “Deliver Better Results: How to Unlock Your Organization's Potential". During the interview, Gil and I discuss how he designed the book to quickly provide actionable practices that organizations can utilize to improve their value delivery system. Our conversation includes details on how to understand the fitness for purpose of your system of delivery, and how to employ his ten strategies to improve your level of maturity. 

The first chapter of the book provides an executive-level summary of the 10 strategies and how they work as well as an assessment that readers can complete to determine the maturity level of their organization and select strategies to help them improve. 

Gil has offered an electronic version of the first chapter to listeners of this podcast. Just follow this link: http://HeardOnPodcast.DeliverBetterResultsBook.com

The Book
You can purchase the book here: http://DeliverBetterResultsBook.com

Other Podcasts About the Book
During the podcast, I mentioned that I had listened to a few other interviews with Gil about the book. They are definitely worth checking out because each one focuses on a different aspect of the book. 

 - Agile Uprising: https://agileuprising.libsyn.com/driving-better-results-with-gil-broza
 - Tech Lead Journal: https://techleadjournal.dev/episodes/160/
 - SPAM: https://spamcast.libsyn.com/spamcast-792-deliver-better-results-a-conversation-with-gill-broza

Contacting Gil
Work: https://3pvantage.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilbroza/

Dave's Upcoming Classes
In the introduction to the podcast I mentioned a few of my upcoming classes:
A-CSPO February 29-March 1 http://tinyurl.com/bde5acnv
CSM Atlanta - March 4-5 - http://tinyurl.com/yhwzr3bs
CSPO Atlanta - March 6-7 - http://tinyurl.com/24be92zy
And you can find links to all of my upcoming classes here: http://tinyurl.com/4wbkkhra

Deliver Better Results w Gil Broza

At the Modus Institute, Jim Benson and Mark Kilby have created a new offering called Successful Distributed Teams. This new course focuses on how to build strong remote teams, how to create a humane, healthy balance of productivity and accountability, and what tools you can use to make it all work. In this interview, Jim and Mark join me to discuss what happened when they combined the many years of experience they each have in shaping remote teams that work. We cover how the idea of remote work has changed over the past few years, what makes it so challenging, and things you can start doing to foster a thriving collaborative remote team. 

This podcast was originally recorded in video. You can find that version here: https://youtu.be/TnFzQr80tBg

To learn more about Successful Distributed Teams
https://modusinstitute.com/course/successful-remote-work-teams

To check out Mark Kilby and Johanna Rothman’s book From Chaos to Successful Distributed Agile Teams
https://tinyurl.com/5fbnynxe

Contacting Jim
Web: https://modusinstitute.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jimbenson
Email: jim@moduscooperandi.com

Contacting Mark
Web: MarkKilby.com
Mastodon: https://hachyderm.io/@mkilby
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkilby/
Email: mark@markkilby.com

Successful Distributed Teams

If you are on one of those teams that has made a habit of dragging unfinished work from one Sprint to the next... YOU NEED TO STOP! 
 
When you get to the end of a Sprint and have work that isn't done, you can't show it to the stakeholders in the Sprint Review. If you don't show it to Stakeholders in the Sprint Review, you can't get feedback. And if you can't get feedback, you can't inspect and adapt, and you negate the entire point of working in a Sprint. 

This podcast offers five things that you and your team can do
right now to stop carrying over unfinished work and start enabling Scrum to provide you with the results you and your organization were hoping for when you headed down the path to agility. 

This podcast was originally recorded in video. You can find that version here: https://youtu.be/df8Ig_KYPUg

If you liked this podcast, please click subscribe and let me
know so I keep adding more. 

If you are interested in attending one of my upcoming CSM or
CSPO classes, just follow this link: https://tinyurl.com/yc5k84z5

And if you'd like to contact me, you can find all my links
right here: https://linktr.ee/mrsungo

5 Things You Can Do to Fix Your Sprint Planning

Alan Dayley is back to help me continue the quest of figuring out why so many companies are struggling with PI Planning or quarterly planning. During the interview, we discuss some of the reasons organizations struggle with this type of planning. We address the topic from the perspective of senior leadership, why they want it, how they often approach it, and the challenges that creates. We also explore the way the request is often interpreted by the Development Teams, how they often respond, and how critical it is that they have the time needed to understand the request and the freedom to respond in a way that is responsible to the organization. 

Alan is a SAFe Program Consultant, so during the conversation he also explains how PI planning is supposed to work if you are truly following SAFe.

… and, Developers are not batteries

Contacting Alan

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alandd/
Email: alandd@DayleyAgile.com

Fixing PI planning with Alan Dayley

I’m testing out the AI Generated Summary…

In this conversation, Dave Prior and Scott Sehlhorst discuss the importance of improving the product plan while executing it. They explore the common problem of companies jumping straight into execution without considering what they should build and why. Scott emphasizes the need to shift from a mindset of control to one of influence, where product managers focus on solving problems and creating value for customers and the business. They also discuss the concept of uncertainty and sensitivity and how to navigate it using impact mapping to identify needs and changes. In this conversation, Scott Sehlhorst discusses the importance of shifting into a business model and the need to create changes and hypotheses. He emphasizes the process of narrowing down the target population and quantifying the impact of changes. Scott also highlights the significance of determining sensitivity and making connections between cause and effect. He introduces the confidence rubric and explains how to prioritize experiments. The conversation concludes with the idea of constantly improving the plan and focusing on the next most important thing to learn.

Takeaways

Companies often jump straight into execution without considering what they should build and why.
Product managers should shift from a mindset of control to one of influence, focusing on solving problems and creating value for customers and the business.
Uncertainty and sensitivity are inherent in product development, and it is impossible to know everything before building a product.
Using impact mapping can help identify needs and changes, allowing for experimentation and learning in an uncertain environment. Shifting into a business model involves creating changes and hypotheses.
Narrowing down the target population is crucial for effective experimentation.
Quantifying the impact of changes helps determine the potential outcomes.
Using a confidence rubric can aid in decision-making and prioritization.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
03:00 The Fear of Being Late vs. the Fear of Being Wrong
05:58 Backlog Rationalization Workshop
10:00 Moving from Control to Influence
13:07 Building the Right Things
20:00 Navigating Uncertainty and Sensitivity
29:11 Using Impact Mapping to Identify Needs and Changes
31:56 Shifting into Business Model
33:05 Creating Changes and Hypotheses
34:32 Narrowing Down the Target Population
35:15 Quantifying the Impact
36:34 Determining Sensitivity
38:21 Making Connections and Causal Relationships
39:36 Confidence and Uncertainty
43:00 The Confidence Rubric
44:23 Prioritizing Experiments
49:29 What's the Next Most Important Thing to Learn
53:28 Improving the Plan

Links from the Podcast
The Empathy Map Podcast where Scott and I discuss Impact Mapping
https://on.soundcloud.com/szLXeqe5Q6t2Tf9b8

Scott’s blog post about using a Confidence Rubric
https://uxpressia.com/blog/make-decisions-about-business-experiments

Contacting Scott:
Scott’s Blog at Tyner Blain: tynerblain.com/blog/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sehlhorst/
Twitter: twitter.com/sehlhorst
Email: scott@tynerblain.com

What's The Next Most Important Thing to Learn with Scott Sehlhorst

Summary

In this conversation, Dave Prior interviews Chris Hadnagy and Dr. Abbie Maroño about social engineering and human hacking. They discuss the definition of social engineering and how it differs from human hacking. They emphasize the importance of intent in social engineering, with the goal being to influence someone's actions for their benefit rather than to cause harm. They also explore the concept of imposter syndrome and how it affects different generations and genders. The conversation concludes with a discussion on how self-awareness can be used to be a better servant leader and understand others. In this conversation, Dr. Abbie and Chris Hadnagy discuss the importance of understanding human behavior and communication in various contexts. They emphasize the need to look beneath the surface when someone behaves badly and to consider their underlying needs. They also discuss the importance of self-awareness and understanding one's own communication style. They highlight the value of seeking credible information and avoiding misinformation, especially in the field of psychology. They provide insights into their courses and books that can help individuals improve their communication skills and become more effective in their personal and professional lives.

This podcast was originally recorded in video format. You can find the video here: https://youtu.be/71cZz-ac-zc

Takeaways

Social engineering is the act of influencing someone to take an action that may or may not be in their best interest.
Intent plays a crucial role in determining whether social engineering is positive or negative.
Imposter syndrome is a universal human experience, but the way it is expressed can differ between generations and genders.
Self-awareness is key to understanding and managing imposter syndrome and can be used to be a better servant leader.
Understanding the emotions and motivations of others can help build empathy and improve relationships. Look beneath the surface when someone behaves badly and consider their underlying needs.
Understand your own communication style and be aware of how it may impact others.
Seek credible information and be cautious of misinformation, especially in the field of psychology.
Take courses and read books to improve your communication skills and personal development.

Chapters

00:18 Introduction and Background
10:26 Exploring Imposter Syndrome Across Generations
24:11 Understanding Others: Building Empathy
31:50 Seeking Credible Information
39:57 Challenging Simplistic Explanations

Links from the podcast:

Foundational Application of Social Engineering
https://www.social-engineer.com/product/foundational-application-of-social-engineering/

Chris’s books on Amazon
https://tinyurl.com/mrx6umcb

Dr. Abbie’s Book
Work in Progress: The Road to Empowerment, The Journey Through Shame
https://tinyurl.com/jzbsu2ev

Social-Engineer YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@Social-Engineer

Dr. Abbie’s TEDX Manchester talk 
https://www.tedxmanchester.com/abbie-marono/

Contacting Chris Hadnagy
Web: https://www.social-engineer.org/
Blog: https://www.social-engineer.org/blog/
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy

Contacting Dr. Abbie Maroño
Web: https://www.abbiemarono.com
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/dr-abbie-maroño-phd-35ab2611a

Human Hacking with Christopher Hadnagy and Dr. Abbie Marono

Summary
The conversation explores the concept of being a hero or a villain in a team and how awareness of one's role can lead to more intentional actions. The guests, Jesse and Carl, share their perspectives on this topic. Jesse discusses his experience running an agency and how he developed a marketing approach for supervillains. Carl talks about his role at the Bureau and the challenges of being a leader. They also discuss the importance of empathy and self-reflection in avoiding villainous behavior. The conversation highlights the need for leaders to be aware of their actions and the impact they have on others. They also explore the challenges of leadership and self-awareness, particularly in relation to the younger generation. It delves into the importance of difficult conversations, honest feedback, and effective reward systems. The fear and pressure of being in a position of power are discussed, along with the potential for toxic leadership. Strategies for improving self-awareness include having a coach, seeking unfiltered feedback, and using AI tools. The concept of decommoditization is introduced as a way to differentiate oneself in a competitive market. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the supportive and inspiring nature of the Bureau community.

Takeaways
	•	Being a hero or a villain is subjective and depends on the perspective of others.
	•	Leaders should be aware of their actions and the impact they have on their team.
	•	Empathy and self-reflection are important in avoiding villainous behavior.
	•	True communication and understanding can help build stronger relationships within a team. Difficult conversations and honest feedback are crucial for effective leadership.
	•	Fear and pressure can lead to toxic leadership, and it's important to find healthy ways to manage negative energy.
	•	Having a coach and seeking unfiltered feedback can help improve self-awareness.
	•	Decommoditization is a strategy to differentiate oneself in a competitive market.
	•	The Bureau community is a supportive and inspiring network for professionals.

Chapters

03:23 This dude is like Batman...I'm somebody's Joker
07:50 When you think you're  a hero, but maybe you're a villain
10:40 The 3 brains in side every organization
11:05 Being conscious of an advanced perspective
13:53 Knowing when you've slipped into villain mode
20:36 Ways to increase your level of self-awareness
26:35 Decommoditization: Differentiating Yourself in a Competitive Market
31:24 The Supportive and Inspiring Nature of the Bureau Community


Jesse's book
Web: https://marketingforsupervillains.com
Amazon: Marketing for Supervillains https://tinyurl.com/59tkjs39

Contacting Jesse
Web: https://decommoditized.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-wroblewski/

Contacting Carl
Web: https://bureauofdigital.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-w-smith/

Are you the hero or the villain in your team? w Carl Smith and Jesse Wroblewski

Summary
In this conversation, Dave Prior is joined by Jeff Leach and Sandra Cain to discuss the question of whether coaching has killed Agile. They explore the role of coaching in Agile transformations and the challenges that arise when underqualified coaches are thrust into coaching roles. They also discuss the difference between coaching and consulting, the importance of understanding one's place as a coach, and the need for range and adaptability in coaching approaches. The conversation highlights the need for a balanced approach that combines both coaching and consulting based on the specific needs of the organization and individuals involved. The conversation explores the importance of first and last impressions in building relationships and the role of emotions in our interactions. It delves into the distinction between coaching and consulting, emphasizing the need for coaches to be unbiased and focused on drawing out the best in others. The conversation also touches on the challenges of internal coaching and the importance of measuring the success of coaching engagements. It concludes with a discussion on the future of coaching and the need for a balance between task-oriented and relationship-oriented approaches.

Takeaways
	•	Coaching and consulting are both important in Agile transformations, but coaching should not be led with and should be used when appropriate.
	•	Underqualified coaches can hinder Agile transformations and fail to deliver the promised value.
	•	Coaches need to understand their place and have humility, as well as the ability to adapt their approach based on the needs of the organization and individuals.
	•	There is a need for range and adaptability in coaching approaches, as different situations may require different approaches.
	•	A balanced approach that combines coaching and consulting based on the specific needs of the organization and individuals is crucial for successful Agile transformations. First and last impressions are crucial in building relationships.
	•	Coaches should be unbiased and focused on drawing out the best in others.
	•	Internal coaching can be more complex and requires careful design around confidentiality and safety.
	•	Measuring the success of coaching engagements should focus on moving towards the desired culture and operational rhythm.
	•	The future of coaching requires a balance between task-oriented and relationship-oriented approaches.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
04:07 The Question: Did Coaching Kill Agile?
05:59 The Challenges of Underqualified Coaches
08:45 Defining Coaching and Consulting
15:32 The Importance of Range and Adaptability in Coaching
28:05 The Power of First and Last Impressions
31:48 The Challenges of Internal Coaching
37:44 Measuring the Success of Coaching Engagements
47:35 The Future of Coaching: Balancing Task and Relationship

Contacting Sandra
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandracain/
Email:  coachcain@gmail.com

Contacting Jeff
Web: https://www.adaptivitygroup.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefferyleach/
Email: jeff.leach@adaptivitygroup.com

Dave's Links From The Intro
Certified Scrum Product Owner July 1-2, 2024 (Use PRIOR50 to get $50 off the list price) https://tinyurl.com/2r8af3uk
Dave's upcoming classes: https://tinyurl.com/u2vh9zh8
The Art of War for Collaboration: https://modusinstitute.com/course/art-of-war-collaboration
Contacting Dave: https://linktr.ee/mrsungo

Did Coaching Kill Agile? w Sandra Cain and Jeff Leach

Summary
In this conversation, Si Alhir and Dave discuss the Art of War, its application in transformation work, and the naturalness and unity found within its wisdom. They explore the concept of taking whole, the relationship with the environment, and the role of the Sage Commander. Si shares personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the transformative power of the Art of War. The conversation delves into the concept of enlightened leadership and the application of the principles from 'The Art of War' in organizational transformation. It explores the distinction between an enlightened ruler and a wise general, the importance of psychological safety, and the shift from a vicious ego-based reality control cycle to a virtuous eco-based reality navigation cycle. The conversation concludes with a powerful story of using the ordinary and the extraordinary to transform toxic organizational dynamics.

Takeaways
	•	The Art of War is a transformative wisdom that emphasizes naturalness and unity in its application.
	•	The concept of taking whole and the relationship with the environment are key elements of the Art of War's wisdom.
	•	The role of the Sage Commander involves patience, relaxation, and an understanding of the natural flow of time and energy.
	•	Leadership power lies in the individual's ability to navigate the world around them, working with the environment as a partner.
	•	The Art of War offers tools for practice and learning, requiring a mindful and respectful approach to its application. Enlightened leadership requires awareness and mindfulness in navigating the nature of things.
	•	Psychological safety should focus on building strong individuals to interact in an unsafe world.
	•	The application of 'The Art of War' principles can lead to successful organizational transformation.
	•	The distinction between the vicious ego-based reality control cycle and the virtuous eco-based reality navigation cycle is crucial for effective leadership.
	•	Using the ordinary and the extraordinary can transform toxic organizational dynamics.
Titles
	•	Tools for Practice and Learning in the Art of War
	•	Exploring the Transformative Wisdom of the Art of War Transforming Toxic Organizational Dynamics
	•	Navigating Psychological Safety and Reality in Leadership
Chapters

00:00 	Preroll Intro
02:33 	Introduction to the Art of War and Transformation Work
13:42	The Concept of Taking Whole and Unity
29:21 	Navigating the Environment as a Partner
33:03	Tools for Practice and Learning
34:05	Enlightened Leadership and 'The Art of War' in Organizational Transformation
36:56	Navigating Psychological Safety and Reality in Leadership
43:43	The Shift from Vicious Ego-Based Reality Control to Virtuous Eco-Based Reality Navigation
59:39	Transforming Toxic Organizational Dynamics



The Art of War in the Wild (May 2024)

Panel #1 - Brad Barton, Mark Ferraro, and Si Alhir
https://lnkd.in/emmnxQut

Panel #2 - Cynthia Chambers, Christine Ferraro, and Holly Fiorello
https://lnkd.in/eZNX6mJB

Panel #3 - Chris Herring, Cynthia Chambers, and Mudasir Ahamed
https://lnkd.in/ed3kyMUB

Panel #4 - John Cherian., Chris Herring, and Dave Prior
https://lnkd.in/eXB7Mm5x

Si's Books on Amazon
https://tinyurl.com/6rjvkucw

Contacting Si
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salhir/

Dave's Links
Dave's upcoming classes: tinyurl.com/u2vh9zh8
The Art of War for Collaboration: modusinstitute.com/course/art-of-war-collaboration
Contacting Dave: linktr.ee/mrsungo

Thr Art of War with Si Alhir

Summary

In this episode, Jimi Fosdick joins Dave for a conversation about his journey from traditional project management to agile. They discuss the challenges of applying traditional project management to software development, the importance of understanding the context and problem domain when choosing project management approaches, and the misuse of the term 'agile' in the consulting industry. They also touch on the legacy of Frederick Taylor and the need for a people-centered approach in project management. The conversation explores the challenges of traditional project management and the need for a more empirical and agile approach. They discuss the problems with big upfront planning, the importance of shorter cycle times, and the fear of failure. The conversation also touches on the need for more humane workspaces and the changing nature of work. The principal themes include the limitations of traditional project management, the benefits of an empirical approach, and the evolving workforce and work environment.


Takeaways
	•	Traditional project management is effective for problems that can be solved on paper upfront, but may not work well for software development.
	•	Agile approaches, such as Scrum, are better suited for software development and other complex, empirical problems.
	•	The term 'agile' has become an overloaded and misused brand in the consulting industry.
	•	Hybrid approaches that combine traditional project management and agile practices can be problematic and may not fully embrace the values and principles of agile.
	•	A people-centered approach is essential in project management, and the focus should be on collaboration, respect, and solving the right problems. Traditional project management relies on upfront planning, which can lead to longer cycle times and higher failure rates.
	•	An empirical approach, such as Agile, allows for shorter cycle times and the ability to adapt and change as needed.
	•	The fear of failure often hinders organizations from embracing more agile and iterative approaches.
	•	There is a growing emphasis on creating more humane workspaces and allowing for more flexibility and creativity in the workplace.
	•	The nature of work is changing, and organizations need to adapt to the expectations and needs of the new generation of workers.

Chapters

02:20 Introduction and Background
05:52 The Challenges of Traditional Project Management in Software Development
08:33 Differentiating Scrum from Traditional Project Management
12:13 The Misuse of the Term 'Agile'
14:38 The Problem with Hybrid Approaches
22:17 Legacy Code in Our Heads: Shifting the Project Management Paradigm
26:21 The Benefits of an Empirical Approach
28:46 Overcoming the Fear of Failure
33:18 Creating More Humane Workspaces
39:03 The Changing Nature of Work


Contacting Jimi
 - Web: https://fearlessagility.com/
 - X: https://x.com/FearlessAgility
 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FearlessAgility/
 - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realFearlessAgility/
 - Courses on the Scrum Alliance site: https://tinyurl.com/yjc2rtmf



Links from Dave's Intro
 - The Art of War for Collaboration Course http://modusinstitute.com/course/art-of-war-collaboration

- Guided Personal Kanban (September 2024)
http://modusinstitute.com/course/guided-pk-sep-usa

The Agile Network*
https://go.theagilenetwork.com/l/web-dprior
	Use the discount codes below to get either 20% or 2 months of free access
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Contacting Dave
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/mrsungo

An interview with Jimi Fosdick of Fearless Agility

Summary

In this conversation, Dave Prior and Sara Doubleday discuss the complexities of managing change within creative teams, the integration of AI in creative processes, and the importance of maintaining human connections in a remote work environment. Sara shares her experiences with team mergers, the challenges of efficiency versus human connection, and the need for a supportive agency culture that fosters collaboration and creativity. The discussion highlights the nuances of change management and the significance of treating team members as individuals rather than mere processes.

If you'd prefer to watch the video version of this podcast, you can find it here: https://www.projectmanagement.com/blog-post/77403/leading-creative-teams-through-change-with-sara-doubleday

Takeaways
	•	The role of a creative lead involves clearing blockers for the team.
	•	AI is a tool to enhance creativity, not replace it.
	•	Change management requires grace and understanding of individual differences.
	•	Team dynamics are crucial for successful project execution.
	•	Building connections in remote teams takes intentional effort.
	•	Efficiency should not come at the cost of human connection.
	•	Successful change is a complex, non-linear process.
	•	Agency culture can significantly impact team morale and productivity.
	•	Recognizing the value of individual contributions is essential.
	•	Continuous learning from past experiences is vital for growth.

Chapters
00:18 Introduction to Chaos and Collaboration
03:32 Navigating Change in Creative Teams
06:13 The Role of AI in Creative Processes
13:01 Building and Rebuilding Teams
16:04 Misconceptions About Change Management
19:49 Reflections on Change and Team Dynamics

Digital Pm Summit: https://bureauofdigital.com/event/digital-pm-summit-2024
Sara's Speaker Page at the 2024 DPM Summit: https://bureauofdigital.com/sara-doubleday-dpm-summit-2024
Dave's Speaker Page at the 2024 DPM Summit: https://bureauofdigital.com/dave-prior-dpm-summit-2024

Contacting Sara: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-doubleday/
Web: https://www.saradoubleday.com
Seer Interactive: https://www.seerinteractive.com

Leading Creative Teams Through Change with Sara Doubleday

Summary
In this conversation, Dave Prior and Val Hinze discuss the evolution of project management roles, the importance of creating a supportive PMO structure, and the significance of servant leadership in fostering a healthy work environment. Val shares insights on how Mighty Citizen has redefined project management to focus on career growth, client relationships, and sustainable practices. The discussion also touches on the upcoming Digital PM Summit and Val's talk about the journey of project management within her organization.

If you'd prefer to watch the video version of this podcast you can find that here: https://tinyurl.com/3nwsmyud

Takeaways

	•	Creating a structure for project manager success is essential.
	•	Support from leadership is crucial for project managers.
	•	Client happiness is a key measure of project success.
	•	Fostering growth and safety for project managers is rare but necessary.
	•	Innovating together as a team leads to better outcomes.
	•	Building sustainable client relationships is a new approach.
	•	Continuous improvement should be a focus in project management.
	•	Val's journey reflects the evolution of project management roles.
	•	The PMO can be a supportive entity rather than a hindrance.
	•	Val's superpower lies in her ability to adapt and innovate.

Chapters

00:18 Introduction to Project Management and Personal Journey
03:09 Creating a Supportive PMO Structure
06:09 The Importance of Career Trajectory in Project Management
09:06 Fostering a Healthy Work Environment
12:07 Defining Success in Project Management
15:10 Performance Reviews and Growth Opportunities
18:11 Val's Talk at the Digital PM Summit
21:08 Val's Superpower and the Future of PMOs

2024 DIGITAL PM SUMMIT LINKS

Digital PM Summit: https://bureauofdigital.com/event/digital-pm-summit-2024
Val's Speaker Page at the 2024 DPM Summit: https://bureauofdigital.com/val-hinze-dpm-summit-2024
Dave's Speaker Page at the 2024 DPM Summit: https://bureauofdigital.com/dave-prior-dpm-summit-2024

CONTACTING VAL

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valhinze/
Val at Mighty Citizen: https://www.mightycitizen.com/team/valerie-hinze
Mighty Citizen: https://www.mightycitizen.com/

Unleashing The Power Of Project Management With Val Hinze

Summary
In this conversation, Dave Prior and Kate Kaiser discuss the challenges faced by non-technical project managers, particularly in overcoming fear and embracing difficult conversations. Kate shares her experiences in project management, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, communication, and building trust with clients. They explore strategies for managing energy and maintaining transparency in client relationships, ultimately highlighting the significance of creating positive experiences in every interaction.

Takeaways
- Embracing fear can lead to better outcomes.
- Self-awareness is crucial in managing stress and energy.
- Being shameless helps in uncomfortable conversations.
- Asking questions is essential for clarity and understanding.
- Trust and honesty build strong client relationships.
- Every interaction should be a positive experience.
- Fear is a common experience; it's okay to feel it.
- Having a plan B can ease communication challenges.
- Project managers don't need to know everything; leverage your team.
- Building relationships is more important than the project itself.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kate Kaiser and Her Background
03:21 Embracing Fear in Project Management
06:16 Navigating Non-Technical Challenges
09:17 Self-Awareness and Energy Management
12:09 Honesty and Transparency in Client Relationships
15:19 Building Trust and Positive Experiences
18:26 Closing Thoughts and Conference Preview

To learn more about the 2024 Digital PM Summit
- https://bureauofdigital.com/event/digital-pm-summit-2024

Contacting Kay
 - Plank: https://plank.co/
 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-keizer/

Overcoming Fear as a Non-Technical Project Manager with Kay Keizer

Summary
In this conversation, Dave Prior and Galen Lowe explore the complexities of digital project management, emphasizing the importance of understanding digital projects, the role of project managers in decision-making, and the necessity of integrity in client relationships. They discuss the evolution of project management, the significance of building trust, and the challenges of navigating stakeholder expectations. The conversation highlights the need for project managers to learn from their experiences and adapt to the changing landscape of the profession, ultimately advocating for a supportive and humane work environment.

This podcast was originally recorded in video. If you'd like to check out that version you can find it here: https://youtu.be/T6l6xRsT76A

Takeaways
- Digital projects involve a combination of people, pixels, and code.
- Learning should not solely come from the school of hard knocks.
- Project managers must facilitate decision-making processes.
- Understanding choices is a key responsibility of project managers.
- Decisions must be made, even when there are no good options.
- Earning the right to ask questions is crucial in stakeholder management.
Integrity is essential in maintaining client relationships.
- Project management is evolving to focus on career health and continuous learning.
- Building trust is fundamental to successful project management.
- The messiness of projects is part of the journey towards success.

Chapters
01:52 Introduction to Digital Project Management
07:55 The Role of Project Managers in Decision Making
13:56 Understanding Stakeholder Dynamics
22:24 Navigating Client Expectations and Project Integrity
28:39 Evolving Perspectives on Work and Loyalty
34:49 Forward Momentum in Problem Solving
41:39 Embracing the Messiness of Project Management

Check out Galen's original post on LinkedIn
https://tinyurl.com/3br78w6d

Contacting Galen
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/galen-low-digital-transformation-advisor/
Digital Project Manager: https://thedigitalprojectmanager.com
Podcast: https://thedigitalprojectmanager.com/digital-project-manager-podcast/

Agile for Project Managers Show
My new podcast/show is available on The Agile Network along with a wide range of brand new content we share every week from our 80+ experts from all corners of the Agile space.
Link: https://theagilenetwork.com/
You can use the promo code DRUNKENPM12C202 to get a 20% discount of any of our membership options.

Bad Choices in Every Direction with Galen Low

Summary
In this conversation, Dave Prior and Jim Benson discuss the challenges of remote work, the impact of collaboration tools on productivity, and the importance of creating humane workspaces. They explore the dynamics of meetings, the toxicity of over-communication, and the need for regular maintenance in team processes. Jim shares insights from his course on cleaning toxic waste in workplaces, emphasizing the significance of visual management and effective communication to foster a healthier work environment.

Takeaways
	•	Work should be done without fear or trepidation.
	•	Remote work requires understanding information needs within teams.
	•	Meetings often become unproductive due to over-communication.
	•	Context switching can lead to frustration and decreased productivity.
	•	Creating humane workspaces is essential for team dynamics.
	•	Regular maintenance of team processes prevents issues from escalating.
	•	Collaboration tools need to be used intentionally and effectively.
	•	Visual management can help reduce workplace toxicity.
	•	Toxic systems lead to hiring toxic leaders.
	•	Addressing workplace toxicity is a collective responsibility.

Chapters
02:11 Introduction to Jim Benson and Work Dynamics
05:09 The Challenges of Remote Work and Collaboration Tools
08:07 Meeting Overload and Productivity Killers
11:14 Communication Tools and Their Inefficiencies
14:11 The Impact of Context Switching on Work
17:07 Creating Humane Workspaces
20:10 The Role of Tools in Team Collaboration
23:08 Cleaning Toxic Waste in Work Environments
26:15 Conclusion and Course Information

Links from the episode
Cleaning Toxic Waste Course: https://modusinstitute.com/course/toxic-waste
Modus Institute: https://modusinstitute.com/
The Collaboration Equation: https://www.collaboration-equation.com/
The Agile Network December Micro Conference (Dec 16-17): https://theagilenetwork.com

Contacting Jim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimbenson/
Email: jim@moduscooperandi.com

Are Your Collaboration Tools Hijacking Your Productivity? with Jim Benson

Today PMI announced that The Agile Alliance was joining PMI to form the PMI Agile Alliance. This is obviously going to cause a great deal of debate in the Agile and project management communities. I am very excited about what this could mean for the future of Project Management and Agile - and here is why.

The PMI Agile Alliance

In this episode of Drunken PM Radio, Dave Prior discusses how to make daily standups more effective for teams that feel they are merely status calls. He shares ten actionable suggestions to enhance the value of these meetings, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, preparation, and maintaining a focused and respectful environment. The conversation also touches on the need for team members to take responsibility for their contributions and the dynamics of remote work.

Takeaways
	•	Daily standups should foster conversation, not just status updates.
	•	Avoid rigid structures like the three questions in standups.
	•	Team members should update their work status before the meeting.
	•	Focus on collaboration rather than individual assignments.
	•	Encourage camera use during virtual meetings for better connection.
	•	Limit standup meetings to 15 minutes to maintain efficiency.
	•	Rotate the facilitator to promote collective ownership.
	•	Use inclusive language to reinforce team unity.
	•	Preparation is key to a productive meeting.
	•	Respect your teammates by being prepared and engaged.

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10 Ways to Stop Your Daily Scrum From Acting Like a Status Meeting

In this conversation, Dave Prior and Mun-Wai Chung discuss the pervasive issue of ineffective meetings in the corporate world, exploring the cultural implications of meeting practices, the impact of remote work, and strategies for improving collaboration. Mun-Wai shares insights from her book, 'Slay the Meeting Monster', emphasizing the need for intentionality in meetings and the importance of scripts to guide discussions. The conversation highlights the necessity of reevaluating meeting structures to foster a more productive work environment.

Takeaways
	•	Meetings often reflect a company's culture and collaboration style.
	•	The pandemic has exacerbated the problem of ineffective meetings.
	•	Scripts can help facilitate more productive meetings.
	•	Collaboration should be prioritized over traditional meeting formats.
	•	Leaders play a crucial role in shaping meeting culture.
	•	Information overload can hinder productivity in remote work settings.
	•	Meetings should have clear purposes and outcomes.
	•	It's essential to respect participants' time by evaluating meeting necessity.
	•	Creating a collaborative culture requires intentional practices.
	•	The way we work and communicate is evolving, necessitating new approaches to meetings.

Chapters
01:33	Introduction to Meeting Culture
04:28	The Meeting Monster: A Personal Journey
07:30	The Inefficiency of Meetings
10:39	Types of Meetings and Their Purpose
13:25	The Role of Technology in Meetings
16:19	The Impact of Remote Work on Collaboration
19:33	Overcoming Information Overload
22:36	Conclusion and Key Takeaways
28:02	Navigating Communication Overload
31:02	Establishing Boundaries for Effective Collaboration
35:20	The Importance of Experimentation in Team Dynamics
37:32	The Role of Scripts in Meetings
46:36	Meetings as a Reflection of Company Culture

Check out Mun-Wai's Book
Slay the Meeting Monster: https://tinyurl.com/yc82k2pj

If you'd like to contact Mun-Wai
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/munwaic/

The Agile Network February 2025 Microconference -  Disruption: How AI and Agile are Reinventing the PMO - February 24, 2024 https://theagilenetwork.com

Slaying the Meeting Monster: A Conversation with Mun-Wai Chung

In this conversation, Dave Prior, Brett Harned, and Greg Storey discuss the importance of creating a humane workspace through effective communication and collaboration. They share their backgrounds, the founding of Same Team Partners, and the significance of addressing communication issues within teams. The discussion highlights the need for leaders to be trained in facilitating meaningful conversations and the role of Team Angle in diagnosing and improving team dynamics. The conversation emphasizes the importance of empathy, cultural understanding, and creating a safe environment for teams to thrive. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of understanding and communicating company values, the necessity of documentation and effective communication within teams, and the role of visualization in work processes. They emphasize creating safe spaces for team discussions, empowering teams through inclusivity, and the need for transformation at the team level rather than just implementing new processes. The conversation highlights the challenges leaders face in fostering a healthy team culture and the significance of ongoing dialogue and collaboration to improve team dynamics.

Takeaways
	•	Creating a humane workspace is essential for team success.
	•	Many problems in teams stem from poor communication.
	•	Positive culture leads to high-performing teams.
	•	Stress and tension can be indicators of team dysfunction.
	•	Empathy is crucial for understanding team dynamics.
	•	Team Angle helps identify misalignments within teams.
	•	Leaders often lack training for meaningful conversations.
	•	Engagement at all levels is necessary for success.
	•	Creating a shared language enhances team collaboration.
	•	Structured conversations can improve team dynamics. Understanding company values is crucial for alignment.
	•	Documentation is essential for effective communication.
	•	Visual representation of work processes aids understanding.
	•	Creating safe spaces encourages open dialogue.
	•	Inclusivity fosters team empowerment and motivation.
	•	Teams should be involved in the solution process.
	•	Transformation should focus on team dynamics, not just processes.
	•	Regular one-on-ones significantly increase team engagement.
	•	Leaders need to be aware of their team's challenges.
	•	Empathy and collaboration are key to overcoming obstacles.

Chapters

00:18 Introduction to a Humane Workspace
03:29 Foundations of Same Team Partners
06:22 The Importance of Communication in Teams
09:11 Identifying Healthy Team Dynamics
12:12 Cultural Differences in Team Interactions
15:25 Creating Safety in Team Environments
18:19 Understanding Team Angle
21:31 Implementing Team Angle for Improvement
31:26 Understanding Company Values and Principles
34:18 The Importance of Documentation and Communication
36:00 Visualizing Work Processes
40:08 Creating Safe Spaces for Team Conversations
44:13 Empowering Teams Through Inclusivity
46:19 Transforming Teams, Not Just Processes

You can find Same Team Partners, their Teamangle Diagnostic and the Teamangle Conversation Cards here: 
https://sameteampartners.com/

You can also find them on LinkedIn:
Brett Harned: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettharned/
Greg Storey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brilliantcrank/

Is Your Team Operating At Its' Full Potential? w/ Brett Harned & Greg Storey from Same Team Partners

Summary
In this conversation, Dave Prior and Preston Hunter discuss the challenges of transitioning to Agile methodologies, particularly focusing on the use of JIRA and visual collaboration tools like Lucid. They explore a case study of a team moving to Kanban, the integration of Lucid with JIRA, and how visual tools can simplify workflows and enhance collaboration. The discussion also covers capacity planning, managing dependencies, and the importance of creating custom views for project management. Preston shares insights on how Lucid can help teams visualize their work, engage stakeholders, and improve overall efficiency. The conversation concludes with resources for learning and support for new users of Lucid.

This podcast was recorded in video format because of the demo that was given. You can find the video here: https://www.projectmanagement.com/blog-post/78177/using-lucid-to-update-jira-with-preston-hunter

Takeaways
	•	Visual collaboration tools can ease the transition to Agile.
	•	JIRA can be overwhelming for new users; Lucid simplifies this.
	•	Integrating Lucid with JIRA allows for real-time updates.
	•	Custom views in Lucid can help manage personal and team workflows.
	•	Visualizing dependencies is crucial for effective project management.
	•	Capacity planning features help teams avoid overcommitment.
	•	Engaging teams with visual tools fosters collaboration and creativity.
	•	Lucid offers resources for new users to learn effectively.
	•	Conditional formatting in Lucid enhances reporting capabilities.
	•	Personalization of boards can reflect team culture and identity.

Chapters
03:21 Introduction to Agile and Visual Collaboration
05:13 Challenges of Implementing Kanban with JIRA
09:21 Lucid's Integration with JIRA
15:21 Enhancing Team Collaboration and Workflow Visualization
21:28 Managing Dependencies and Capacity Planning
27:21 Customizing Workflows and Agile Practices
30:48 Empowering Teams with Agency
33:58 Capacity Planning and Sprint Management
36:30 Reporting and Visual Collaboration Tools
40:28 The Future of Project Management
42:33 Enhancing Team Collaboration and Engagement
45:32 Personalizing Team Spaces
49:41 Learning and Support Resources



To learn more about Lucid go to https://lucid.co/
To contact Preston https://www.linkedin.com/in/preston-hunter/

Using Lucid to Update Jira with Preston Hunter

Summary
In this conversation, Dave Prior and Dennis Stevens explore the evolving definition of project success as outlined in PMI's recent report. They discuss the implications of this new definition, emphasizing the need for continuous transformation in organizations and the role of project managers in delivering value. The conversation also touches on the importance of reducing friction in project management, the impact of AI on the profession, and the necessity for project managers to navigate the political landscape of project success. Ultimately, they highlight the need for project managers to adapt to a rapidly changing environment and the skills required to thrive in this new landscape.

Takeaways
	•	A successful project delivers value worth the effort and expense.
	•	Transformation is continuous, not stepwise.
	•	Project success must include stakeholder perception and value delivery.
	•	Project managers need to focus on reducing friction in processes.
	•	AI will change the role of project managers significantly.
	•	Friction is not the same as constraints; it impedes progress.
	•	Project success should be measured by the ability to adapt and deliver value.
	•	The role of project managers is evolving to include more strategic responsibilities.
	•	Continuous evaluation is essential for project success.
	•	Navigating politics is crucial for achieving project success.

Links:
PMI Article on Reframing Project Success https://www.pmi.org/blog/reframing-project-success
Agile for Project Managers - What is Project Success? w/ Dennis Stevens, Jesse Fewell, Jenny Tarwater, Sally Sloley, Jimi Fearless, and Semira Allen and  (on The Agile Network) https://theagilenetwork.com/content/1d2a0a72-4d33-4145-b80a-3728f45b1947/item/0
Redefining Project Success and How it Impacts Project and Product Leaders with Lenka Pincot, Mike Griffiths and Dave Prior (on The Agile Network) https://theagilenetwork.com/content/926c08d0-52c7-4444-8f2a-732ac6acea61/item/0

Contacting Dennis
Website: https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=orgwright&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennisstevens/
The Agile Network Profile: https://theagilenetwork.com/celebrity/fa0c1ba5-2373-4750-a3a2-86e37bc3ab03


Chapters
00:18 Introduction to Project Success Redefined
03:25 Transformation in Project Management
06:14 The New Definition of Project Success
09:21 Challenges in Project Management
12:08 Reducing Friction in Project Success
15:16 The Role of Project Managers in Value Delivery
18:39 The Politics of Project Management
22:18 Evolving Role of Project Managers
25:08 AI and the Future of Project Management
28:08 The Changing Landscape of Project Management
30:18 Concluding Thoughts and Future Conversations

Redefining Project Success with Dennis Stevens - March 2025

Shift: From Product To People: A Novel About Product Development, and Shifting to People To Achieve a Holistic Agile Transformation is a new book written by Michael Dougherty and Pete Oliver-Krueger that focuses on shifting the Agile mindset away from a product-centric approach and towards a more a people-centric one. This interview centers around the need for collaboration, the impact of AI on Agile practices, and the significance of creating a humane work environment. The authors also highlight the role of mentorship in personal growth and the future of work in an AI-driven landscape. They also share some of the challenges they faced during the four and a half years of writing the book, the narrative style that allows for multiple perspectives, and the importance of real-life experiences in connecting with readers. 

If you'd prefer the video version of this podcast, you can find it here: https://youtu.be/lf_f_JdTWvM

The Book
Shift: From Product to People https://www.amazon.com/Shift-Development-Shifting-Holistic-Transformation/dp/B0D89NT9RD

Contacting the Authors
Michael Dougherty https://www.linkedin.com/in/agilemichaeldougherty/
Pete Oliver-Krueger https://www.linkedin.com/in/peteok/


Chapters
00:18 Introduction to the Authors and Their Journey
03:17 The Motivation Behind Writing the Book
06:15 Exploring the Narrative Style and Structure
09:21 The Importance of Realistic Coaching
12:13 Chapter Highlights and Key Themes
15:11 The Concept of Collaborative Budgeting
18:19 The Three Waves of Agile
21:12 Humanizing Agile Practices
24:12 The Future of Agile and Leadership Perspectives
27:26 Navigating the Agile Doom Loop
30:19 Crisis as an Opportunity for Change
32:38 The Evolution of Agile Frameworks
34:34 AI's Impact on Agile Practices
41:17 The Human Element in Agile Coaching

Shifting from Product to People: A New Agile Perspective w/ Pete Oliver-Krueger & Michael Dougherty

Looking for work is never easy but if you work in IT, Project Management or Agile and you're looking for a gig this may totally feel like the darkest timeline.

In this conversation, Ed Stockwell joins drunkenpm to discuss the current challenges in the job market, particularly for those in project management and Agile roles. Ed and Dave explore the importance of networking, volunteering, and maintaining mental health during the job search process. Ed shares his experiences and strategies for navigating the job landscape, including leveraging AI tools, the significance of community support, and the necessity of clarity in job seeking. They also touch on the importance of personal routines and the role of physical activity in maintaining a positive mindset. Throughout the discussion, Ed emphasizes the value of being of service to others and the power of relationships in finding new opportunities.

To Contact Ed:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edstockwell/
Web: https://www.edstockwell.com

Chapters
03:08 Navigating the Job Market Landscape
05:38 The Importance of Networking and Volunteering
08:30 Balancing Traditional and Agile Project Management
11:35 The Role of Physical and Mental Well-being
14:28 Finding Value in Volunteering
17:37 Building Relationships and Offering Value
20:35 Coping with Job Search Challenges
31:18 The Power of Clarity in Communication
31:45 Crafting Your Personal Narrative
33:30 Leveraging AI for Personal Growth
34:38 AI's Impact on Work Efficiency
37:18 Daily Routines and Personal Management
39:02 Using Kanban for Relationship Management
43:05 Self-Reflection and Personal Growth
44:29 Job Search Strategies and Networking
49:08 Navigating Emotional Challenges
50:53 Advice for the Recently Laid Off

Dave's Upcoming Classes: https://tinyurl.com/53bpy3my
Sign up for updates on Dave's new book: https://www.stuartyoung.uk/copy-of-human-skills-1

Navigating Your Job Search in the Age of AI with Ed Stockwell

An interview with Agile Alliance Conference Chair Chris Murman on what’s happening at Agile 2025 and why you want to be there. During the conversation, we discuss ways this year's event is different from the previous ones, focusing on the importance of addressing real problems within the Agile community, the challenges faced by professionals in the field, and the evolving role of AI in Agile practices. We talk about the need for collaboration, innovation, and a proactive approach to shaping the future of Agile methodologies.

Bottom line - come to Agile 2025 to create, not just consume


Links from the interview
To learn more about Agile 2025 and register:
https://agilealliance.org/agile2025/

To contact Chris:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismurman/
Email: chrisdmurman@gmail.com


Links from the intro:
Mile High Agile 2025
https://www.agiledenver.org/mile-high-agile-2025/

Agile Coach Camp Worldwide
https://agilealliance.org/event/agile-coach-camp-worldwide-2025/

Reimagining Agile Event
https://agilealliance.org/event/reimagining-agility/

To watch the interview with Jurgen Appelo:
https://theagilenetwork.com/content/8f025d5e-e8d5-454b-97a3-18e47619b397

To learn more about the session Stuart and Dave are leading at Agile 2025:
https://events.agilealliance.org/agile2025/session/2841530/career-power-ups-surviving-through-uncertainty-and-change

To learn when Stuart and Dave's book No One Is Coming to Save You is available:
https://www.stuartyoung.uk/copy-of-human-skills-1

Agile 2025 Preview with Chris Murman

In this conversation, Dave Prior and Reece Schmidt discuss the upcoming Agile 2025 conference, focusing on its structure, keynotes, and unique features like the Hackathon for Good. They emphasize the importance of preparation for attendees, including tips for maximizing the conference experience, networking, and engaging with speakers. The conversation also addresses resources for introverts and those who may feel overwhelmed, ensuring a supportive environment for all participants.

Takeaways
	•	Agile 2025 is a condensed three-day event with a focus on keynotes and hands-on learning.
	•	The Hackathon for Good will allow participants to work on real-world problems for a nonprofit.
	•	Attendees should prepare by reading the program and identifying key speakers and topics of interest.
	•	Networking is crucial; attendees should engage with speakers and other participants.
	•	Book signings will provide opportunities for attendees to connect with authors directly.
	•	Self-care is important; attendees should prioritize sleep, hydration, and breaks.
	•	Introverts can find quiet spaces and should not hesitate to take breaks when needed.
	•	The conference will feature a variety of new voices and perspectives in the Agile community.
	•	Participants should have backup session choices in case their first choice is full.
	•	Visual cues will be provided to help attendees navigate social interactions.

Links:
Agile 2025: https://agilealliance.org/agile2025/

Interview with Jurgen Appelo on The Agile Network
https://theagilenetwork.com/content/8f025d5e-e8d5-454b-97a3-18e47619b397

Contacting Reese:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reeseschmit/

Agile 2025
https://agilealliance.org/agile2025/

Dave and Stuart's Talk at Agile 2025: Career Power-Ups: Surviving Through Uncertainty and Change
https://tinyurl.com/2s4zhzts

Dave and Stuart’s Book: “No One Is Coming to Save You”
https://www.stuartyoung.uk/copy-of-human-skills-1

AI Readiness for Professionals Course
https://tinyurl.com/y79kassb

Dave’s Upcoming Scrum Certification Classes
https://www.scrumalliance.org/courses-events/search?tr=14153&cnty=US


Chapters
00:18 Introduction to Agile 2025
01:56 Conference Structure and Keynotes
04:13 Hackathon for Good
07:55 Hands-On Learning Opportunities
10:38 Book Signing and Author Engagement
12:54 Preparation Tips for Attendees
17:26 Survival Tips During the Conference
21:48 Resources for Introverts
25:56 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

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