Productized Podcast 184. Agile Transformation Without Purpose? Why It Fails, and How to Fix It I Ben Maynard
Why do so many Agile transformations fail, even when teams follow every process?
In this episode of the Productized Podcast, host Pedro Ganço sits down with Ben Maynard, Agile coach, leadership expert, and founder of Sheev, to explore the missing ingredient in most product organizations: purpose.
Ben shares his deeply personal journey, from overcoming early life challenges to coaching leaders across the globe, and explains why methods alone won’t drive real change. Together, they explore how aligning teams around shared meaning leads to better collaboration, faster decisions, and more impactful products.
Whether you're navigating Agile transformation, trying to motivate a burned-out team, or redefining leadership in your company, this conversation will give you the clarity, and humanity, you need.
👇 What you’ll learn:
➡️ Why product teams feel misaligned—even with Agile in place
➡️ How to bring purpose back into product work
➡️ The problem with over-relying on frameworks and canvases
➡️ How AI fits into purpose-driven collaboration
➡️ Practical leadership tips for creating “contexts of care”
🎯 “Less method. More meaning.” That’s the mindset shift Ben says we all need to make.
Chapters:
02:18 Ben Maynard's Unique Journey and Background
05:14 The Importance of Personal Development and Sharing Experiences
07:41 Common Themes in Product Management Conversations
10:39 Podcasting Formats: Solo vs. Interviews
14:07 The Motivation Behind Starting a Podcast
17:03 Transitioning from Traditional Banking to Agile Practices
19:46 Challenges in Agile Transformation
24:51 Key Differentiators in Successful Organizations
27:45 Aligning Teams Around Purpose
30:12 The Importance of Repetition in Communication
32:42 Creating Context for Meaningful Work
35:52 The Role of Purpose in Adversity
37:30 AI's Impact on Agile Product Development
46:08 Integrating Purpose and Agile Methodologies
Where to Find Ben: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmaynard-sheev/
Sheev: https://sheev.co.uk
Product Agility Podcast: https://productagilitypod.co.uk
Where to find Pedro: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedroganco/
🎉 Mark your calendars for Productized Conference 2025! Join us for the 10th edition of this premier event, where product management leaders from around the world gather for insightful talks, networking, and celebration. Tickets are already available—don’t miss out! Get your tickets now: https://www.productized.co
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