

Mastering Agility
Sander Dur and Jim Sammons
Why is it that products are so hard to develop and deliver?
How can we truly deliver value with so many different variables that can affect the outcome?
We are Sander Dur and Jim Sammons, professional consultants and trainers who support organizations in their pursuit of creating valuable products. Passionate about helping the community and practitioners apply the theory many authors and thought leaders bring to the industry, we started this podcast to make these concepts more accessible.
This podcast will change your career and organization. You’ll be entertained while learning about the industry’s leaders and other practitioners, and you’ll feel familiar with the situations discussed as we invite guests over and discuss tools, concepts, models, metrics, leadership, frameworks, and many more elements that help you deliver amazing products.
Both of us understand the many struggles, challenges, antipatterns, and dysfunctions many of us face in our daily working lives. We are here to provide actionable advice and strategies for you to create continuous improvement. You will find things that actually work for many organizations, as we and our guests have tried and tested them.
You will find a goldmine of actionable information from many fields, including the space industry, Formula 1, psychology, and Silicon Valley’s top entrepreneurs. We break down these complex topics into easily digestible insights that you can start applying in your careers right away. The best part is that you can even join our live recordings to ask your most burning questions and get them answered based on your needs!
We dive deep into the world of business agility, product discovery, delivery, validation, product management, and product frameworks like Scrum, Kanban, LeSS, and many more. We’ll explore the benefits of decentralized decision-making, autonomous empowered teams, leadership, and much more. We empower you with the information you need to become the leaders your organization deserve.
Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
How can we truly deliver value with so many different variables that can affect the outcome?
We are Sander Dur and Jim Sammons, professional consultants and trainers who support organizations in their pursuit of creating valuable products. Passionate about helping the community and practitioners apply the theory many authors and thought leaders bring to the industry, we started this podcast to make these concepts more accessible.
This podcast will change your career and organization. You’ll be entertained while learning about the industry’s leaders and other practitioners, and you’ll feel familiar with the situations discussed as we invite guests over and discuss tools, concepts, models, metrics, leadership, frameworks, and many more elements that help you deliver amazing products.
Both of us understand the many struggles, challenges, antipatterns, and dysfunctions many of us face in our daily working lives. We are here to provide actionable advice and strategies for you to create continuous improvement. You will find things that actually work for many organizations, as we and our guests have tried and tested them.
You will find a goldmine of actionable information from many fields, including the space industry, Formula 1, psychology, and Silicon Valley’s top entrepreneurs. We break down these complex topics into easily digestible insights that you can start applying in your careers right away. The best part is that you can even join our live recordings to ask your most burning questions and get them answered based on your needs!
We dive deep into the world of business agility, product discovery, delivery, validation, product management, and product frameworks like Scrum, Kanban, LeSS, and many more. We’ll explore the benefits of decentralized decision-making, autonomous empowered teams, leadership, and much more. We empower you with the information you need to become the leaders your organization deserve.
Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 11, 2024 • 38min
#114 - Agile HR: From Managing to Empowering Employees with Riina Hellstrom - Part 2
SummaryIn this conversation, Sander Dur and his guest Riina Hellstrom explore the evolving role of HR in organizations, emphasizing the shift from traditional "resource management" to a more agile, empowering approach. They discuss the importance of adopting an agile mindset in HR practices, the impact of AI on the workforce, and the necessity for continuous learning and adaptation in the face of change. Riina shares insights on how HR can create value for employees, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the need for leaders to prioritize initiatives effectively. The conversation highlights the importance of co-creating change with employees and fostering a positive work environment that encourages engagement and fulfillment.takeawaysHR should empower employees to succeed.Agile mindset is crucial for modern HR practices.Value streams in HR can enhance employee experience.AI will significantly impact HR roles and functions.Continuous learning is essential for career development.Leaders must prioritize initiatives effectively.Co-creating change with employees fosters engagement.The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted HR's importance.HR needs to adapt to technological advancements.A positive work environment enhances employee satisfaction.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Oct 8, 2024 • 31min
#114 - Agile HR: From Managing to Empowering Employees with Riina Hellstrom - Part 1
SummaryIn this conversation, Sander Dur and his guest Riina Hellstrom explore the evolving role of HR in organizations, emphasizing the shift from traditional "resource management" to a more agile, empowering approach. They discuss the importance of adopting an agile mindset in HR practices, the impact of AI on the workforce, and the necessity for continuous learning and adaptation in the face of change. Riina shares insights on how HR can create value for employees, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the need for leaders to prioritize initiatives effectively. The conversation highlights the importance of co-creating change with employees and fostering a positive work environment that encourages engagement and fulfillment.takeawaysHR should empower employees to succeed.Agile mindset is crucial for modern HR practices.Value streams in HR can enhance employee experience.AI will significantly impact HR roles and functions.Continuous learning is essential for career development.Leaders must prioritize initiatives effectively.Co-creating change with employees fosters engagement.The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted HR's importance.HR needs to adapt to technological advancements.A positive work environment enhances employee satisfaction.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Oct 4, 2024 • 47min
#113 The end of the Goldrush? The Agile Crisis with Jurgen Appelo - Part 2
"The way we have been working for the last 20 years with standard frameworks and methodologies, we're going to leave behind." Summary In this conversation Sander Dur, Jim Sammons and their guest Jurgen Appelo explore the impact of the current crisis on the agile community and the need for adaptation and learning new skills. They discuss the concept of agile being dissolved rather than dead, and the changing nature of the agile world. They emphasize the importance of being a lifelong learner and continuously adapting to new technologies and ways of working. The conversation also touches on the need for individuals to invest in their own development and the challenges of finding new opportunities in a rapidly changing landscape. The conversation explores the potential impact of AI and LLMs on various aspects of work and life. Together with Jurgen, the hosts discuss the opportunities and challenges presented by these technologies, including the potential for job displacement and the need for continuous learning. They also touch on the concept of creative disruption and the importance of challenging complacency in large organizations, as well as the ethical implications of AI and the evolving boundaries of ethics. They conclude with reflections on their personal ambitions and the future of work.key takeawaysAgile is not dead, but it is dissolved and evolving in response to changing circumstances.The focus should be on outcomes rather than rigid frameworks and methodologies.Continuous learning and adaptation are crucial in the face of technological advancements and changing job markets.Individuals should take responsibility for their own development and invest in their skills and employability.Controversial opinions and diversity of perspectives are essential for progress and innovation. AI and LLMs have the potential to significantly impact various aspects of work and life.Job displacement is a concern, but there are also opportunities for continuous learning and personal growth.Creative disruption is important for challenging complacency in large organizations.Ethical considerations and the evolving boundaries of ethics are crucial in the development and use of AI.Reflection on personal ambitions and the future of work is essential for navigating the changing landscape.Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Oct 1, 2024 • 36min
#113 The end of the Goldrush? The Agile Crisis with Jurgen Appelo - Part 1
"The way we have been working for the last 20 years with standard frameworks and methodologies, we're going to leave behind." Summary In this conversation Sander Dur, Jim Sammons and their guest Jurgen Appelo explore the impact of the current crisis on the agile community and the need for adaptation and learning new skills. They discuss the concept of agile being dissolved rather than dead, and the changing nature of the agile world. They emphasize the importance of being a lifelong learner and continuously adapting to new technologies and ways of working. The conversation also touches on the need for individuals to invest in their own development and the challenges of finding new opportunities in a rapidly changing landscape. The conversation explores the potential impact of AI and LLMs on various aspects of work and life. Together with Jurgen, the hosts discuss the opportunities and challenges presented by these technologies, including the potential for job displacement and the need for continuous learning. They also touch on the concept of creative disruption and the importance of challenging complacency in large organizations, as well as the ethical implications of AI and the evolving boundaries of ethics. They conclude with reflections on their personal ambitions and the future of work.key takeawaysAgile is not dead, but it is dissolved and evolving in response to changing circumstances.The focus should be on outcomes rather than rigid frameworks and methodologies.Continuous learning and adaptation are crucial in the face of technological advancements and changing job markets.Individuals should take responsibility for their own development and invest in their skills and employability.Controversial opinions and diversity of perspectives are essential for progress and innovation. AI and LLMs have the potential to significantly impact various aspects of work and life.Job displacement is a concern, but there are also opportunities for continuous learning and personal growth.Creative disruption is important for challenging complacency in large organizations.Ethical considerations and the evolving boundaries of ethics are crucial in the development and use of AI.Reflection on personal ambitions and the future of work is essential for navigating the changing landscape.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Sep 27, 2024 • 36min
#112 The Product Operating Model with Chris Jones - Part 2
summaryIn this conversation, hosts Sander Dur and Jim Sammons discuss various topics including the impact of books, the secrecy of Apple, consumer behavior, and the product operating model with their guest Chris Jones. They explore the concept of the product operating model, which focuses on shifting from output-oriented approaches to outcome-oriented approaches. They also discuss the importance of building and solving problems in product development, as well as the role of product strategy in driving cohesive decision-making. The conversation explores the implementation of the product operating model and the role of product owners and product managers. It discusses the shift from locally implemented frameworks to a more holistic approach throughout the entire organization. The conversation also touches on the involvement of CFOs in funding and investment decisions and the ideal composition of the C-suite in a product organization. Examples of companies that have successfully adopted the product operating model are mentioned. The distinction between product ownership and product management is clarified, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and a holistic approach. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the future of product management and the potential for automation. takeawaysBooks can have a significant impact on personal and professional growth.The secrecy of companies like Apple can be both a strength and a weakness.Consumer behavior is influenced by both product features and brand image.The product operating model emphasizes outcome-oriented approaches over output-oriented approaches.· Building and problem-solving are key aspects of successful product development.· A cohesive product strategy is essential for effective decision-making. The product operating model is a holistic approach that should be implemented throughout the entire organization, rather than just in specific teams or departments.· CFOs are increasingly involved in funding and investment decisions related to product development.· Successful adoption of the product operating model requires collaboration and a shift from a command-and-control mindset to a focus on outcomes and value.· The distinction between product ownership and product management lies in the level of responsibility and the scope of the role.· Product management is a complex and judgment-based role that is less likely to be automated in the future. Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.org Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

5 snips
Sep 24, 2024 • 33min
#112 The Product Operating Model with Chris Jones - Part 1
summaryIn this conversation, hosts Sander Dur and Jim Sammons discuss various topics including the impact of books, the secrecy of Apple, consumer behavior, and the product operating model with their guest Chris Jones. They explore the concept of the product operating model, which focuses on shifting from output-oriented approaches to outcome-oriented approaches. They also discuss the importance of building and solving problems in product development, as well as the role of product strategy in driving cohesive decision-making. The conversation explores the implementation of the product operating model and the role of product owners and product managers. It discusses the shift from locally implemented frameworks to a more holistic approach throughout the entire organization. The conversation also touches on the involvement of CFOs in funding and investment decisions and the ideal composition of the C-suite in a product organization. Examples of companies that have successfully adopted the product operating model are mentioned. The distinction between product ownership and product management is clarified, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and a holistic approach. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the future of product management and the potential for automation.takeawaysBooks can have a significant impact on personal and professional growth.The secrecy of companies like Apple can be both a strength and a weakness.Consumer behavior is influenced by both product features and brand image.The product operating model emphasizes outcome-oriented approaches over output-oriented approaches.Building and problem-solving are key aspects of successful product development.A cohesive product strategy is essential for effective decision-making. The product operating model is a holistic approach that should be implemented throughout the entire organization, rather than just in specific teams or departments.CFOs are increasingly involved in funding and investment decisions related to product development.Successful adoption of the product operating model requires collaboration and a shift from a command-and-control mindset to a focus on outcomes and value.The distinction between product ownership and product management lies in the level of responsibility and the scope of the role.Product management is a complex and judgment-based role that is less likely to be automated in the future.Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Sep 5, 2024 • 49min
#111 Raging Against Fake Agile with Gillie & Marge
In this episode, the Mastering Agility Podcast-team discusses various misunderstandings and misapplications of Agile practices, particularly how Agile is often reduced to a set of tools or deadlines rather than its core principles of flexibility and value-driven work.Key points include:Agile can be misused to push unfinished work or prioritize speed over quality.Many companies dehumanize employees by treating them as "resources" or "tools" rather than people.It's necessary to challenge the status quo and question whether certain processes or features are necessary .Innovation within organizations requires more than hackathons and "innovation days"Agile is about responding to change, not just completing work faster. True agility requires the ability to stop work and pivot if needed.The episode also touches on themes like trust within teams, the pitfalls of bureaucratic decision-making, and how large corporations struggle to implement true Agile principles compared to smaller, nimble organizations.Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.scrummatch.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

27 snips
Aug 26, 2024 • 1h 31min
#110 The Agile Product Operating Model with Simon Reindl & Martin Hinshelwood
Simon Reindl, author and agile expert, joins Martin Hinshelwood, an experienced agile coach, to discuss common misconceptions in agile practices, particularly around Scrum. They highlight the disillusionment with constantly changing methodologies and the importance of focusing on core principles. The guests also address the need for standardization in agile language and emphasize the necessity of a governing body to improve certification and competency in the industry. They advocate for empowering product managers and fostering an innovative culture within organizations.

Aug 14, 2024 • 33min
#109 Organizing the Scan Agile Conference with Kjell de Ruiter & Eliska Cejpova
SummaryThe conversation revolves around the Agile24 conference and the feelings associated with its end. The Sander and his guests talk about the biggest concerns in the run-up to the conference and the importance of risk management and preparation. They reflect on improvements for next year, particularly in terms of party and networking. They discuss the smooth organization process and the real costs of volunteering. The conversation also touches on the approach to in-person conferences after COVID and the global attendance and success of the event. The engaging and impactful speakers are discussed, as well as the experience of imposter syndrome and public speaking. The hosts emphasize the importance of conferences for networking and finding happiness in small moments. TakeawaysRisk management and preparation are crucial for a smooth conference experience.Volunteering for conferences is a non-profit effort that requires time and dedication.Conferences provide valuable networking opportunities and the chance to find happiness in small moments.Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jul 26, 2024 • 49min
#108 The Silent Killer of Agile with Alex & Sally Sloley
Summary The conversation covers karaoke, the Finnish Agile community, bad agile practices, agile transformations, fear, and personal advice. Sander Dur and his guests Sally and Aley Sloley discuss their dislike for karaoke and share stories about karaoke experiences. They praise the Finnish Agile community for their commitment and investment in creating a high-quality conference. They also discuss the negative impact of bad agile practices and the importance of sticking to true agile principles. The conversation delves into the concept of agile transformations and the need for continuous improvement rather than a definitive end state. They address the fear and resistance to change that often hinders agile adoption. They share personal experiences and offer advice on embracing experimentation and overcoming fear. The conversation concludes with a discussion on their mission to stop bad agile practices and the importance of staying true to one's beliefs. They also talk about using birds as metaphors in Sally's work and the importance of happiness in their careers. They share their fears and the impact of Agile on their lives. TakeawaysThe Finnish Agile community is committed and invested in creating high-quality events.Bad agile practices, such as fake agile playbooks and op models, can be harmful and should be avoidedAgile transformations should focus on continuous improvement rather than a definitive end-stateFear often hinders agile adoption and experimentationStaying true to one's beliefs and principles is important in the face of resistance Agile has had a positive impact on Sally's and Alex' lives and has given them hope and fulfillment.Check out our sponsor:www.xebia.comwww.wiserbees.comwww.masteringagility.orgHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.