Mastering Agility

In this reflective and inspiring year-end episode of Mastering Agility, hosts Sander Dur and Jim Sammons are joined by "Solving For Value" co-author and "evil twin" Ryan Brook, along with editor extraordinaire Marge Scheuerer, for a conversation about leadership, agility, and the ever-elusive definition of success.From personal growth in 2024 to the challenges of balancing work and personal satisfaction - this episode dives deep into what it means to be a leader, a consultant, and, above all, human. With topics ranging from the over-certification of Scrum Masters to giving back through charitable work, this episode is packed with humor, introspection, and actionable insights for leaders and agile practitioners alike.Why not all Scrum Masters are created equal.The importance of balancing career ambitions with personal fulfillment.What it means to be a leader versus a manager.The evolving definition of “enough” in life and work.Pro bono work and giving back to the community.How to create personalized approaches to learning and leadership.The joys of being authentic—and the challenges it brings.Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgScanAgile 2025 - ScanAgileConnect with Ryan:Optilearn | Scrum Training That You Can Trust(9) Ryan Brook | LinkedInGet Solving For Value:Solving for Value - Mastering AgilityHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Description:In this episode, Sander and Jim dive deep into the art and science of feedback. Joined by James De Mulder, they explore the nuances of giving and receiving feedback, its role in personal and team growth, and the challenges that come with it. Learn how principles from Nonviolent Communication (NVC) can transform feedback into a powerful tool for connection and collaboration. Plus, discover how AI tools like ChatGPT can help you refine your feedback skills.💡 What You'll Learn:Why feedback is about connection, not criticism.How to use the four components of Nonviolent Communication in feedback.Tips for delivering feedback that resonates and empowers.The importance of timing and context in feedback conversations.How managers can foster psychological safety and trust within teams.Practical applications of AI for practicing and improving feedback deliveryConnect with James on LinkedIn: (9) James De Mulder | LinkedInCheck out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this conversation, Jim talks to Sander, and Ryan about their book 'Solving for Value', exploring its motivations, tone, and the importance of authenticity and empathy in consultancy. They delve into the complexities of work relationships, the significance of critical thinking, and the shared struggles many face in their professional lives. The discussion also touches on the challenges of measuring success beyond monetary ROI and the personal reflections that come with being business owners, culminating in a light-hearted exchange about their favorite holiday movies. In this engaging conversation, Jim, Sander and Ryan discuss a variety of themes ranging from holiday movie favorites to the impact of social media and nostalgia. They discuss the allure of big cities, the dangers of apathy in the workplace, and the importance of critical thinking. The conversation wraps up with reading recommendations and reflections on the writing process. Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

"Refinement is about gathering enough information to get started, not pre-cooking the entire task."In this episode of Mastering Agility, Jim and Sander explore the concept of Refinement in agile teams, discussing its purpose in creating shared understanding, adding details, and aligning on goals. Refinement isn’t about perfect planning but ensuring teams have enough information to start effectively. The hosts highlight the evolving role of the product owner, the importance of continuous communication, and practical strategies to avoid common pitfalls like over-refinement and meeting overload. Their key advice: focus on the five W’s and the how, empower teams to take ownership, and maintain flexibility in the refinement process.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this podcast episode, Jim and Sander discuss the final stages of Sander and Ryan Brooks's upcoming book, Solving for Value: A Journey of Ambition and Stupidity. Sander shares his excitement around the book's December 1st release and the launch event. The book, originally focused on Scrum, evolved to address broader challenges around creating value in product management beyond just following frameworks.Jim and Sander explore shifts in the industry toward product-centric models, noting the risks of adopting frameworks like Scrum without considering organizational context and the tendency for companies to prematurely abandon or restructure teams when products fail, disregarding the team’s accumulated knowledge and cohesion. They discuss the rising use of AI in product management and workforce reductions tied to AI, cautioning that while AI has potential, it also brings significant ethical and operational risks. Jim and Sander question whether AI advancements could meet needs without fully replacing human roles and the broader impacts on industry and society.The conversation touches on the potential impact of technologies like Neuralink and AI on future work and human life, noting ethical, social, and economic implications, including the challenges of accessibility to these advancements. They wrap up by promoting the book's storytelling approach, which mixes a business fable with real-life insights, aiming to deliver practical, relatable learning for those in product development and management.Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this podcast episode, Jim and Sander discuss the final stages of Sander and Ryan Brooks's upcoming book, Solving for Value: A Journey of Ambition and Stupidity. Sander shares his excitement around the book's December 1st release and the launch event. The book, originally focused on Scrum, evolved to address broader challenges around creating value in product management beyond just following frameworks.Jim and Sander explore shifts in the industry toward product-centric models, noting the risks of adopting frameworks like Scrum without considering organizational context and the tendency for companies to prematurely abandon or restructure teams when products fail, disregarding the team’s accumulated knowledge and cohesion. They discuss the rising use of AI in product management and workforce reductions tied to AI, cautioning that while AI has potential, it also brings significant ethical and operational risks. Jim and Sander question whether AI advancements could meet needs without fully replacing human roles and the broader impacts on industry and society.The conversation touches on the potential impact of technologies like Neuralink and AI on future work and human life, noting ethical, social, and economic implications, including the challenges of accessibility to these advancements. They wrap up by promoting the book's storytelling approach, which mixes a business fable with real-life insights, aiming to deliver practical, relatable learning for those in product development and management.Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

summary In this conversation, Sander Dur and Anita Kalmane-Boot explore the concept of neurodivergence, discussing its implications in personal and professional settings. They delve into the definitions of neurodiversity and neurodivergent conditions, share personal experiences, and highlight the importance of understanding and accommodating neurodivergent individuals in team environments. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by neurodivergent people, the process of diagnosis, and the need for open conversations about mental health in the workplace. Sander and Anita discusse the complexities of neurodiversity, the challenges of social interactions, and the dynamics of remote work. They reflect on personal experiences and emphasize the importance of self-acceptance and creating supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals. The discussion also touches on parenting, confidence versus arrogance, and the need for understanding in team dynamics.takeawaysNeurodiversity encompasses a range of brain wiring differences.Neurodivergent individuals may experience unique challenges in social settings.Understanding neurodivergence can enhance team dynamics and productivity.Open conversations about neurodivergence can reduce stigma.Diagnosis can provide clarity and self-acceptance for neurodivergent individuals.Different neurodivergent conditions can affect individuals in various ways.Accommodating neurodivergent individuals requires understanding their unique needs.Not all neurodivergent individuals are the same; diversity exists within the spectrum.Creating inclusive environments benefits everyone, not just neurodivergent individuals.Awareness and education about neurodiversity are crucial for fostering acceptance. Remote work can alleviate social anxiety for neurodivergent individuals.Observing team dynamics in person is crucial for effective Scrum Mastering.Planning ahead can reduce stress and improve decision-making.Self-acceptance is a vital yet challenging journey for many.Creating confident environments is essential for personal and team growth.Neurodiversity encompasses a range of conditions that require understanding.Confidence should be nurtured without crossing into arrogance.Parenting plays a significant role in developing children's self-esteem.Engaging in open conversations can foster better team dynamics.Understanding neurodiversity is an ongoing learning process for society.Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

summary In this conversation, Sander Dur and Anita Kalmane-Boot explore the concept of neurodivergence, discussing its implications in personal and professional settings. They delve into the definitions of neurodiversity and neurodivergent conditions, share personal experiences, and highlight the importance of understanding and accommodating neurodivergent individuals in team environments. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by neurodivergent people, the process of diagnosis, and the need for open conversations about mental health in the workplace. Sander and Anita discusse the complexities of neurodiversity, the challenges of social interactions, and the dynamics of remote work. They reflect on personal experiences and emphasize the importance of self-acceptance and creating supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals. The discussion also touches on parenting, confidence versus arrogance, and the need for understanding in team dynamics.takeawaysNeurodiversity encompasses a range of brain wiring differences.Neurodivergent individuals may experience unique challenges in social settings.Understanding neurodivergence can enhance team dynamics and productivity.Open conversations about neurodivergence can reduce stigma.Diagnosis can provide clarity and self-acceptance for neurodivergent individuals.Different neurodivergent conditions can affect individuals in various ways.Accommodating neurodivergent individuals requires understanding their unique needs.Not all neurodivergent individuals are the same; diversity exists within the spectrum.Creating inclusive environments benefits everyone, not just neurodivergent individuals.Awareness and education about neurodiversity are crucial for fostering acceptance. Remote work can alleviate social anxiety for neurodivergent individuals.Observing team dynamics in person is crucial for effective Scrum Mastering.Planning ahead can reduce stress and improve decision-making.Self-acceptance is a vital yet challenging journey for many.Creating confident environments is essential for personal and team growth.Neurodiversity encompasses a range of conditions that require understanding.Confidence should be nurtured without crossing into arrogance.Parenting plays a significant role in developing children's self-esteem.Engaging in open conversations can foster better team dynamics.Understanding neurodiversity is an ongoing learning process for society.Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This episode features an interview with the hosts of Mastering Agility who discuss their personal and professional journeys into Agile. Sander and Jim share how they transitioned into the Scrum Master role from various career paths. Both highlight the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and servant leadership in their Agile work.Jim initially worked in a tech company as a vice president managing multiple roles but shifted to Agile after being recruited by someone who saw potential in his leadership style. He explains that his previous experience prepared him for the Scrum Master role by teaching him to focus on value and relationships. Sander’s Agile journey began with a course on Scrum, which helped him rethink how to approach work, particularly after recovering from burnout. He reflects on how his burnout changed his perspective on success, leading him to focus on what gives him energy and purpose.They also dive into common challenges in Agile transformations, with both hosts mentioning frequent client questions like “How long does it take to become Agile?” or “What metrics should we use?” They emphasize that Agile success depends on adaptability, calculated risk-taking, and fostering an environment where teams can figure out what works for them, much like Spotify did. They criticize organizations that fear risk and avoid change, likening them to companies like Blockbuster and Blackberry, which failed to adapt and ultimately lost their market positions.In discussing work-life balance, Jim and Sander reflect on the impact their careers have had on their personal lives. Jim opens up about struggling with anxiety in the past, while Sander discusses the mental shift he experienced after his burnout, learning to prioritize happiness over traditional markers of success. They also stress the importance of creating space for self-care and setting boundaries in their work, noting that personal well-being is critical to professional success.The episode ends on a lighter note, where each of the hosts shares something personal. Sander reveals that he was once a ballroom dancer, while Jim talks about how he dealt with anxiety. They discuss hypothetical alternative careers if they didn't need to work for money, with suggestions ranging from running a sustainable farm to being a professional helper, tying back to their values of service and learning.Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgCheck out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This episode features an interview with the hosts of Mastering Agility who discuss their personal and professional journeys into Agile. Sander and Jim share how they transitioned into the Scrum Master role from various career paths. Both highlight the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and servant leadership in their Agile work.Jim initially worked in a tech company as a vice president managing multiple roles but shifted to Agile after being recruited by someone who saw potential in his leadership style. He explains that his previous experience prepared him for the Scrum Master role by teaching him to focus on value and relationships. Sander’s Agile journey began with a course on Scrum, which helped him rethink how to approach work, particularly after recovering from burnout. He reflects on how his burnout changed his perspective on success, leading him to focus on what gives him energy and purpose.They also dive into common challenges in Agile transformations, with both hosts mentioning frequent client questions like “How long does it take to become Agile?” or “What metrics should we use?” They emphasize that Agile success depends on adaptability, calculated risk-taking, and fostering an environment where teams can figure out what works for them, much like Spotify did. They criticize organizations that fear risk and avoid change, likening them to companies like Blockbuster and Blackberry, which failed to adapt and ultimately lost their market positions.In discussing work-life balance, Jim and Sander reflect on the impact their careers have had on their personal lives. Jim opens up about struggling with anxiety in the past, while Sander discusses the mental shift he experienced after his burnout, learning to prioritize happiness over traditional markers of success. They also stress the importance of creating space for self-care and setting boundaries in their work, noting that personal well-being is critical to professional success.The episode ends on a lighter note, where each of the hosts shares something personal. Sander reveals that he was once a ballroom dancer, while Jim talks about how he dealt with anxiety. They discuss hypothetical alternative careers if they didn't need to work for money, with suggestions ranging from running a sustainable farm to being a professional helper, tying back to their values of service and learning.Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.