Mike Bowler: Six Thinking Hats, An Agile Retrospective for Balanced Discussions

Read the full Show Notes and search through the world’s largest audio library on Scrum directly on the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast website: http://bit.ly/SMTP_ShowNotes.

Mike defines a successful Scrum Master as a catalyst who drives the team towards continuous improvement and effective goal achievement. He discusses how to gauge success by examining data available from the team’s processes and questioning whether true improvement is happening. Effective Scrum Masters facilitate discussions that challenge the status quo and encourage the team to reflect on their progress using data and insights.

Self-reflection Question: What indicators do you use to measure your team’s effectiveness?

Featured Retrospective Format for the Week: Six Thinking Hats

Mike shares the Six Thinking Hats retrospective as an effective format to dissect complex team issues. This method allows the team to view problems from different perspectives—logical, emotional, critical, etc.—encouraging balanced discussions and deep insights without conflict. He emphasizes how this approach can defuse latent conflicts and foster logical, collaborative problem-solving.

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About Mike Bowler 

Mike is a seasoned Agile coach and trainer with over 25 years of experience. He focuses on technical practices, workflow optimization, leadership coaching, and human behavior, including neuroscience and psychology. His expertise extends from technical implementation to fostering psychological safety.

You can link with Mike Bowler on LinkedIn.