Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast: Agile storytelling from the trenches

Managing Change in Complex Organizational Cultures | Ellen Grove

Jan 6, 2025

Ellen Grove, a skilled business agility coach and expert in Agile methodologies, shares her insightful journey from a software testing background to Scrum mastery. She highlights the hurdles of implementing Agile in complex organizations, including her battles against resistance and the emotional toll it can take. Emphasizing self-reflection, Ellen discusses the importance of focusing on what can be influenced, detaching from uncontrollable outcomes, and fostering team ownership in the face of adversity.

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Intro

00:00 • 3min

Navigating Transition: From Software Testing to Scrum Mastery

02:41 • 3min

Navigating Scrum Challenges in Complex Organizational Settings

05:25 • 3min

Navigating Resistance to Scrum Implementation

08:50 • 2min

Embracing the Role of Scrum Masters in Facilitating Change

11:14 • 3min

Ellen Grove: Managing Change in Complex Organizational Cultures

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.

Ellen reflects on her early experiences as a Scrum Master, facing challenges in an environment that resisted the introduction of Scrum. She shares valuable lessons about handling external resistance, managing personal expectations, and avoiding emotional burnout when navigating organizational change. Ellen emphasizes the importance of focusing on what can be influenced and detaching from outcomes beyond one’s control.

Self-reflection Question: How do you maintain focus and resilience when dealing with resistance to Scrum in your organization?

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About Ellen Grove

Ellen is a skilled business agility coach, trainer, and facilitator, helping teams and leaders foster collaboration, productivity, and meaningful change. With expertise in Agile, Scrum, Lean, and systems coaching, she partners with diverse organizations—from startups to global enterprises—to navigate complex challenges, build resilience, and drive impactful organizational transformations across all departments.

You can link with Ellen Grove on LinkedIn.