
Stellar Work
Hey everyone, welcome to Stellar Work. The podcast that explores the art of creating exceptional products and services that not only inspire their customers but also ignite the passion of the developers behind them. Each episode, we shine a spotlight on incredible individuals who are pushing the boundaries and reshaping the landscape of product development. From groundbreaking strategies to innovative solutions, our guests share their experiences and insights on what it takes to make a mark in these dynamic fields.
www.stellarwork.com
Benjamin Igna 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-igna/
Latest episodes

Dec 23, 2024 • 55min
#22 Santa and Rudolph at the Kata Conference
In this lively discussion, Joe Justice, an Agile expert from Team Wikispeed, and Tilo Schwarz, a Lean management pro from Festool, dive into the evolving world of work. They explore how AI impacts decision-making and the balance between autonomy and direction. The guests highlight the importance of visualization for collaboration and creativity, especially in the automotive industry. They also touch upon the engineering challenges in the EV landscape and the cultural shifts needed for continuous improvement and innovation.

Dec 9, 2024 • 44min
#17 Jurgen Appelo - The Unfix Model
Jurgen Appelo, an agile management expert and author, shares his insights on the Unfix model for organizational design. He emphasizes the shift from rigid frameworks to flexible pattern libraries, allowing for innovation and adaptability. Appelo discusses the 'swarming' method for team dynamics and the impact of AI on job roles in software development. His experiences showcase how tailored practices can improve team effectiveness and employee satisfaction while fostering creativity in agile management practices.

Nov 25, 2024 • 42min
#16 Marc Sniukas - The better Strategy OS
In this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews strategy advisor Marc Sniukas, who shares insights on modern strategic planning and the Better Strategy OS framework. They discuss the challenges of traditional strategy, the importance of defining strategy in terms of challenges and ambitions, and the need for a structured approach to strategy that includes testing options and stakeholder value. Marc also provides a case study on Netflix's strategic evolution and offers advice for those new to the field of strategy.
Marc Sniukas:
Marc Sniukas is a leading strategy advisor helping CEOs and business owners design and execute winning strategies in a smart and fresh way so that they lead with clarity and confidence and achieve profitable results, even in times of uncertainty and turbulence.
Over the past 20+ years, Marc has equipped CEOs, senior leaders, and executive teams of companies such as Accenture, ArcelorMittal, BMW, DeBeers, HP, HSBC, Lufthansa, McDonald’s, RTL, and ZF to create strategies that double their revenue and profits, drive innovation that sets them apart from their competition, and create lasting transformation and increased performance.
Today, he helps CEOs and business owners of medium-sized businesses create a refreshingly simple approach to strategy that leads to powerful results even during a recessionary climate. Fast, without months of analysis and planning, and taking too much time and resources away from daily business. And without the pains of the traditional, old-school approaches.
All by using his unique, proven approach, which he has developed and fine-tuned over the years: The Better Strategy OS.
Download your free ebook at www.makebetterstrategy.com
www.sniukas.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/sniukas/
Stellar Work:
Check out www.stellarwork.com for more information about how evolutionary agile transformations work
Make sure to follow us on your podcast player 🔔 as well as on LinkedIn to never miss out on more content: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stellarwork/
Sponsors:
This podcast is 100% sponsored by me :)
If you need help with you agile transformation and opting for an evolutionary approach seems like something you want to check out, click here and lets meet: https://calendly.com/benjamin-igna-dcs_/30min
Note:
Stellar Work Podcast hosts and guests may hold assets discussed in this episode. This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only.
You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any financial transactions.
🤘 Generated Music: https://suno.com/@stellarwork

Nov 11, 2024 • 52min
#19 Klaus Leopold - Flight Levels Case Study
Klaus Leopold, a leading expert in Kanban and Agile methodologies, unveils the Flight Levels model, designed to enhance organizational agility. He discusses the three key levels: operational, coordination, and strategy, emphasizing visualization and focus. The conversation delves into practical strategies for implementation, engaging stakeholders, and measuring success through metrics. Klaus advocates for flexibility in agile practices, highlighting how customizable approaches can address complex challenges, ultimately encouraging deeper connections within teams.

Nov 5, 2024 • 55min
#21 Martin Wanitschke - Wandelbots NOVA
In this conversation, Martin Wanitschke discusses his role at Wandelbots and the company's mission to democratize robotics. He explains the evolution of robot programming, the introduction of the TracePen, and the challenges faced in product development. The discussion highlights the shift towards a software-focused approach with the upcoming launch of Wandelbots Nova, a hardware-agnostic operating system for robots that aims to make robotics accessible to a wider audience. In this conversation, Martin Wanitschke discusses the innovative programming methods for robotics, the transformation of company structure at Vandalbots, and the integration of simulation technologies in automation. He emphasizes the empowerment of software developers in the robotics field, the potential for remote programming, and the emergence of new business models. The conversation also touches on the restructuring of the company, financial outlook, and expectations following the upcoming product launch.
Martin Wanitschke & Wandelbots
At Wandelbots, we believe robots can do more than just one job. Just like how our world is always changing, we think robots should be able to adapt and change with us. We don't want only the experts to have all the fun; we want everyone to experience the magic of automation.
Wandelbots NOVA guides businesses through planning, building, and scaling automation. With familiar tools and integration of software and hardware, NOVA ensures consistent performance with minimal disruptions.
Our name combines the German word 'Wandel' (meaning change) with 'Bot', showing our love for our roots and our passion for modern tech. In simple words, we're here to shake things up, make robots more accessible, and let everyone be a part of this exciting journey.
Website: https://www.wandelbots.com/
Beta Access: https://www.wandelbots.com/developers-beta
Meet Wandelbots at SPS: https://www.wandelbots.com/sps
Martin Wanitschke: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinwanitschke/
Stellar Work:
Check out www.stellarwork.com for more information about how evolutionary agile transformations work
Make sure to follow us on your podcast player 🔔 as well as on LinkedIn to never miss out on more content: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stellarwork/
Sponsors:
This podcast is 100% sponsored by me :)
If you need help with you agile transformation and opting for an evolutionary approach seems like something you want to check out, click here and lets meet: https://calendly.com/benjamin-igna-dcs_/30min
Note:
Stellar Work Podcast hosts and guests may hold assets discussed in this episode. This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only.
You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any financial transactions.
🤘 Generated Music: https://suno.com/@stellarwork

Nov 4, 2024 • 51min
#20 Steffen Stammel - Dynamic Shared Ownership at Bayer
Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared by Steffen are based on his personal reflections and experiences. He is not representing the company's stance or policies.
In this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews Steffen Stammel, Global IT Strategy Director at Bayer, who shares his personal reflections on the company’s ongoing transformation amidst various challenges. They explore the impact of leadership changes, the introduction of a dynamic shared ownership model, and the importance of employee well-being during this transition. Steffen offers insights into the strategies being implemented to foster innovation and agility within the organization, while also addressing the need for a cultural shift to support these changes. He emphasizes that these views are based on his own experiences and do not represent Bayer’s official stance or policies. The conversation concludes with reflections on personal well-being and the future outlook for Bayer.
Steffen Stammel
Steffen Stammel is the Global IT Strategy Director at Bayer, focusing on driving digital transformation across the organization. He defines digital transformation as the rapid adoption of change aimed at accelerating growth, a principle that applies not only to Bayer’s organizational structure but also to its projects and initiatives. With a proactive approach, Steffen aims to shape the future rather than merely react to changing circumstances. His work spans transformation, product management, AI strategy, and health, performance, and longevity initiatives. On the Stellar Work Podcast, he highlighted Bayer’s dynamic shared ownership model, which empowers employees and reduces bureaucracy, all while ensuring that innovation and employee well-being are central to the company’s ongoing transformation.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steffen-stammel/
Stellar Work:
Check out www.stellarwork.com for more information about how evolutionary agile transformations work
Make sure to follow us on your podcast player 🔔 as well as on LinkedIn to never miss out on more content: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stellarwork/
Sponsors:
This podcast is 100% sponsored by me :)
If you need help with you agile transformation and opting for an measurable and evolutionary approach seems like something you want to check out, click here and lets meet: https://calendly.com/benjamin-igna-dcs_/30min
Note:
Stellar Work Podcast hosts and guests may hold assets discussed in this episode. This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only.
You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any financial transactions.
🤘 Generated Music: https://suno.com/@stellarwork
Timestamps:
00:00Introduction and Personal Updates02:27Bayer's Transformation Journey10:06Leadership Changes and New Approaches13:33Dynamic Shared Ownership Model20:19Navigating Change and Employee Well-being28:53Future Vision and Organizational Structure44:48Steffen Stammel.wav

Oct 28, 2024 • 1h 1min
#15 Rijon Erickson - Riffing with Rijon
In this conversation, Benjamin and Rijon "Ryan" Erickson explore a variety of themes ranging from personal experiences and reflections on life to discussions about vacations, childhood memories, and aspirations for the future. They delve into the influence of parents on their lives and the importance of work-life balance, while also touching on the significance of giving back to the community.
Rijon Erickson:
Rijon “Ryan” Erickson is a musician, innovator, and corporate leader with a unique approach to work and leadership. With a background in jazz improvisation, Ryan blends his musical philosophy with corporate experience, advocating for more human-centered and creative ways of working. He believes in the power of connection, improvisation, and collaboration, comparing leadership to jazz where small, skilled teams can innovate in real time. Ryan’s career spans IT, corporate strategy, and design thinking, and he’s passionate about bringing artistry, love, and humanity into the workplace. Through his work, including his “Riffing with Ryan” sessions, Ryan helps people find harmony in chaos, encouraging them to approach work with the same spirit as a jazz jam session—improvised, authentic, and connected.
Rijon Erickson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rijonerickson/
Rijons content throughout the web:
https://dot.cards/rijon
Stellar Work:
Check out www.stellarwork.com for more information about how evolutionary agile transformations work
Make sure to follow us on your podcast player 🔔 as well as on LinkedIn to never miss out on more content: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stellarwork/
Sponsors:
This podcast is 100% sponsored by me :)
If you need help with you agile transformation and opting for an evolutionary approach seems like something you want to check out, click here and lets meet: https://calendly.com/benjamin-igna-dcs_/30min
Note:
Stellar Work Podcast hosts and guests may hold assets discussed in this episode. This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only.
You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any financial transactions.
🤘 Generated Music: https://suno.com/@stellarwork

Oct 14, 2024 • 48min
#14 Dimitar Bakardzhiev - Measuring the Knowledge Gap
In this conversation, Dimitar Bakardzhiev discusses his extensive experience in software development and the concept of knowledge work. He introduces KEDEHub, a tool designed to bridge knowledge gaps in software development teams. The discussion covers the importance of understanding knowledge work, the state of flow, and how to measure and manage knowledge gaps within organizations. Dimitar emphasizes the balance between routine tasks and innovation, and the need for a knowledge-centric perspective in improving efficiency and productivity in the workplace.
Dimitar Bakardzhiev:
Dimitar Bakardzhiev has led teams and companies, developed software products and managed numerous successful technology ventures. As the owner of a publishing house, he's brought to light eight management books on topics such as Lean, Kanban, the Theory of Constraints by Goldratt, and Deming's Theory of Management, all in the Bulgarian language. In 2015, he was a finalist for the Kanban community’s Brickell Key Award and initiated the first international Agile Lean conference in Bulgaria. Recently, Dimitar was awarded a US Patent for the KEDE technology.Dimitar is also a lecturer and frequent speaker at numerous industry conferences and his passion is to educate audiences on the benefits of Kanban and Agile methodologies for software development.
Dimitar Bakardzhiev on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimitarbakardzhiev/
- KEDEHub https://kedehub.io/- Manifesto for Knowledge-Centric Software Development https://knowledge-centric.org/ - Solana Case study https://docs.kedehub.io/case-studies/report-solana-capability-vs-team-size.html
Stellar Work:
Check out www.stellarwork.com for more information about how evolutionary agile transformations work
Make sure to follow us on your podcast player 🔔 as well as on LinkedIn to never miss out on more content: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stellarwork/
Sponsors:
This podcast is 100% sponsored by me :)
If you need help with you agile transformation and opting for an evolutionary approach seems like something you want to check out, click here and lets meet: https://calendly.com/benjamin-igna-dcs_/30min
Note:
Stellar Work Podcast hosts and guests may hold assets discussed in this episode. This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only.
You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any financial transactions.
🤘 Generated Music: https://suno.com/@stellarwork

Sep 30, 2024 • 45min
#13 Simon Wardley - Wardley Mapping
Simon Wardley, the innovative mind behind Wardley Mapping, discusses his framework for understanding competitive landscapes, born from chaotic leadership experiences. He shares fascinating insights on how strategic mapping can transform career decisions and project management efficiency. The conversation veers into his personal life, like a thrilling family helicopter ride that fueled youthful ambitions. Wardley also highlights the evolution of technology and the critical distinction between commodities and unique innovations, calling for a deeper understanding of product value.

Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 5min
#12 Mark Poppenborg - Future Leadership
Benjamin Igna and Mark Poppenborg, founder of Intrinsify, discuss the need for a better world of work and the challenges faced in achieving it. Mark highlights the importance of understanding the root cause of problems within companies and the need for external references to drive change. He also emphasizes the value of theories over frameworks and the need to focus on adapting to a changing environment. Mark also discusses the importance of understanding the backstage of a company and the informal structures that drive value creation. The solutions to problems are often found within the company and its employees. The discussion also touches on the negative effects of micromanagement and the need for a balance between formal and informal structures in organizations.
Mark Poppenborg:
Mark Poppenborg is the creative mind and the face behind **intrinsify**, a leading consulting company for new work and modern management. As a thought leader, Mark is known for his infectious enthusiasm and drive, constantly inspiring others with his innovative ideas. His deep understanding of self-determined and purpose-driven work comes from personal experience, having founded four companies that embody these principles. This journey has not only positioned him as a forward-thinking visionary but also as a practical pioneer in shaping the world of work. Mark’s work focuses on creating environments where autonomy and meaningful work can thrive, fueling both personal and organizational growth.
Mark Poppenborg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markpoppenborg/
Intrinsify is a company that publishes, trains and advises on work, leadership and organizational development. True to the slogan: We create more real work and less busyness.
»Wir sorgen für mehr echte Arbeit und weniger Beschäftigung.«
Check out their Deep Dive and Academy Program: https://future-leadership.de/
Stellar Work:
Check out www.stellarwork.com for more information about how evolutionary agile transformations work
Make sure to follow us on your podcast player 🔔 as well as on LinkedIn to never miss out on more content: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stellarwork/
Sponsors:
This podcast is 100% sponsored by me :)
If you need help with you agile transformation and opting for an evolutionary approach seems like something you want to check out, click here and lets meet: https://calendly.com/benjamin-igna-dcs_/30min
Note:
Stellar Work Podcast hosts and guests may hold assets discussed in this episode. This podcast is not investment advice, and is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only.
You should do your own research and make your own independent decisions when considering any financial transactions.
🤘 Generated Music: https://suno.com/@stellarwork
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