People and Projects Podcast: Project Management Podcast

Dr. Nada Sanders, co-author of 'The Humachine,' explores the crucial integration of AI and human skills. She discusses Kasparov's Law and Moravec's Paradox, emphasizing the unique strengths humans bring, such as emotional intelligence and creativity. The conversation offers insights for leaders and parents on preparing future generations for an AI-enhanced world. Sanders highlights the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and maintaining human virtues in the face of rapid technological changes.

In this engaging discussion, Laura Barnard, an author and PMO expert, shares her insights on transforming project management practices. She introduces her Impact Engine framework, emphasizing strategic problem-solving and the importance of effective communication. Laura highlights common pitfalls in PMO setups and advocates for a mindset shift to better navigate change. With memorable quotes like "Knowledge alone is not power," she inspires project managers to apply their knowledge practically for real impact, fostering collaboration and improving value delivery within organizations.

Summary In this episode, Andy interviews Dr. Yasmin Davidds about her book Graciously Assertive: How Becoming a Better Human Makes You a Better Leader. They discuss the importance of assertiveness in leadership, particularly in multicultural environments, and the need for leaders to benefit from diverse perspectives and promote a sense of belonging. Dr. Davidds shares insights on what she calls gracious assertiveness, including her personal journey and the pillars of gracious assertive leadership. She also addresses common themes in diversity and inclusion, the concept of holding space, and the impact of these ideas on both professional and personal relationships. In a world where diversity and inclusion have been politicized and often seem primarily about the numbers, this discussion makes it all much more practical. You will learn practical strategies for becoming more assertive and creating inclusive environments. Sound Bites "Graciously assertive is the ability to self-advocate, to communicate in a way that holds space for the other side, that allows everyone in the conversation to feel heard." "If we can be gracious and be more accepting and receptive to other people's messages without taking it personal, we would have a much better workplace." "We just show up different. We don’t need our armor here." "Establishing healthy boundaries is important for individuals to prioritize their energy and create a space where they can be their best selves." "Self-judgment is a reflection of when you judge other people." Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:26 Start Of Interview 02:37 How A Crisis Counselor Saved Yasmin's Life 04:54 Understanding Gracious Assertiveness 08:20 The Pillars Of Gracious Assertive Leadership 10:47 Self-Compassion And Overcoming Self-Judgment 12:40 Overcoming Self-Doubt 15:07 The Importance Of Healthy Boundaries 18:22 Graciously Assertive Communication Model 23:18 Negotiation Strategies With Difficult People 24:03 DEI Mistakes 29:33 Understanding And Implementing 'Holding Space' 33:20 Developing Graciously Assertive Children At Home 35:46 End Of Interview 36:06 Andy's Comments After The Interview 40:29 Outtakes Learn More You can learn more about Dr. Davidds and her book at DrYasminInstitute.com/dr-yasmin-davidds/. Prepare to Pass Your Project Management Certification Exam We regularly help people just like you prepare and pass their PMP and CAPM certification exams. If you or someone you know is thinking about pursuing project management certification, contact us! We'd love to help you earn your credential. Learn more and enroll at i-leadonline.com/PMSeries. Thank you for joining me for this episode of The People and Projects Podcast! Talent Triangle: Power Skills Topics: Assertiveness, Diversity, Inclusion, Leadership, Self-awareness, Curiosity, Empathy, Project Management, Cross-Culture The following music was used for this episode: Music: Summer Morning Full Version by MusicLFiles License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Synthiemania by Frank Schroeter License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

In this lively discussion, sociolinguist Valerie Fridland explores the surprising benefits of 'bad' English in leadership. She argues that filler words and vocal fry can enhance communication, challenging traditional views on language use. Valerie shares insights on how regional dialects shape perceptions and the evolution of words like 'like.' The conversation also touches on the complexities of language in social identity and the importance of context in effective leadership communication, all while keeping a humorous tone.

Summary In this episode, Andy interviews Michelle Labrosse, the founder and Chief Cheetah of Cheetah Learning. They discuss Michelle's career journey, the importance of learning and focus, and her approach to accelerated learning. Michelle shares insights on removing hurdles in learning, dealing with information overload and distractions, and achieving mastery. She emphasizes the importance of thorough project assessment and planning, as well as the need for continuous learning and curiosity. Throughout the discussion, she shares personal anecdotes and practical tips for effective project management. Sound Bites "I was thrown from the car. So I think that now they would label me Asperger's but I wasn't Asperger's. I had a brain injury." "When you teach people how to be good at test taking, you open up a whole world for them." "We do a lot with anxiety. We have a lot of people saying they cured my test anxiety." Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:45 Start of Interview 01:48 Michelle's Early Life and Family Influence 03:03 Discovering and Overcoming a Brain Injury 07:14 The Impact of 'Do What You Are' 14:16 What Makes Learning Fast, Easy, and Fun? 27:53 Project Management Tips for Beginners 28:54 Understanding Project Risks 29:07 The Importance of Stakeholders 29:13 Resources and Self-Assessment 30:50 Curiosity and Humility in Project Management 33:10 Dealing with Project Challenges 36:40 Parenting and Project Management 41:54 Wrap Up 42:19 Andy Comments After the Interview 44:36 Outtakes Learn More You can learn more and connect with Michelle on LinkedIn at LinkedIn/in/Best-PMP-Exam-Prep-Course. Prepare to Pass Your Project Management Certification Exam We regularly help people just like you prepare and pass their PMP and CAPM certification exams. If you or someone you know is thinking about pursuing project management certification, contact us! We'd love to help you earn your credential. Learn more and enroll at i-leadonline.com/PMSeries. Thank you for joining me for this episode of The People and Projects Podcast! Talent Triangle: Ways of Working Topics: project management, career, accelerated learning, leadership, continuous learning, curiosity, parenting, identity capital   The following music was used for this episode: Music: Fantastical Ferret by Tim Kulig License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Fashion Corporate by Frank Schroeter License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Summary In this episode, Andy talks with one of the gurus of governance, Ross Garland, co-author of the Project, Program, and Portfolio Governance Guide. They discuss the importance of governance in project management and how it differs from technical aspects like scope and risk management. Ross explains Cobb's paradox and why projects still fail despite knowing how to prevent their failure. They also delve into the principles of governance, such as treating change differently from business as usual and ensuring a single point of accountability for each project or program. The guide provides practical tools and templates for implementing effective governance. Sound Bites "Cobbs Paradox: We know why projects fail. We know how to prevent their failure. So why do they still fail?" "Most projects muddle through, they get through one way or another, they produce an output, they produce assets. And particularly if they're government projects, ministers tend to be very happy because they get to cut the ribbon." "One of the loneliest positions in the world you can have is to be a project manager who needs to get decisions made, and when they look up in the governance structure, all they see is blue sky." "Some organizations still have the concept that the experts in project management should be the people leading projects. Now, if you do that, what you end up with is lovely assets, but not business outcomes." "There tends to be in some organizations a very unfortunate tendency to think that accountability is about who to blame when things go wrong. And that is not the case. It's about empowerment." "A single point of accountability is essential for the success of a project or program." Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:09 Start Of Interview 02:20 What Is Cobb's Paradox And Why Does It Persist? 05:05 How Do You Describe Governance, And What Is It Not? 07:02 How Do You Differentiate Projects, Programs, And Portfolios? 10:05 How Does Your Guide Compare To PMI's Practice Guide On Governance? 13:25 What Is The Importance Of Treating Change Differently From Business As Usual? 15:32 Can You Explain The Single Point Of Accountability Principle? 20:32 Real-World Example: Replacing A Payroll System 25:41 What Feedback Have You Received From People Using The Guide? 27:46 Where To Find The Guide 28:46 End Of Interview 29:07 Andy's Comments After The Interview 33:30 Outtakes Learn More You can learn more about Ross and his guide at P3gqa.com/. If you’d like more on this subject, check out: Episode 387, with Atif Rafiq about his book on delivering projects Prepare to Pass Your Project Management Certification Exam We regularly help people just like you prepare and pass their PMP and CAPM certification exams. If you or someone you know is thinking about pursuing project management certification, contact us! We'd love to help you earn your credential. Learn more and enroll at i-leadonline.com/PMSeries. Thank you for joining me for this episode of The People and Projects Podcast! Talent Triangle: Ways of Working Topics: governance, project management, program management, portfolio management, decision-making, accountability, project sponsor   The following music was used for this episode: Music: Tranceverse by Sascha Ende License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Chillhouse by Frank Schroeter License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Dr. Sam Adeyemi, an influential leader and author of "Dear Leader," delves into the intricacies of effective leadership. He discusses how personal backgrounds shape leadership styles, emphasizing values and principles over mere status. Self-doubt and imposter syndrome are explored, along with strategies to overcome them through positive self-talk. Generational differences in the workplace are addressed, highlighting the need for empathy and understanding. Sam inspires listeners to embrace their true selves and lead authentically, showcasing the power of intentional personal branding.

Summary In this episode, Andy talks with Steven T. Collis, a law professor and author of Habits of a Peacemaker: 10 Habits to Change Our Potentially Toxic Conversations into Healthy Dialogues.' They discuss the increasing polarization in society, and challenges in having healthy dialogues at work and in personal life. Steven introduces ten habits from his book aimed at transforming potentially toxic conversations into healthy dialogues. The conversation covers topics such as the importance of intellectual humility, seeking real learning, assuming the best about others, and practical strategies for engaging in productive discourse. Steven also shares personal stories and scenarios to illustrate how these habits can be applied, including dealing with difficult family members and controlling emotions. With all of today's political polarization and conflicts at work, this book is a must-read for aspiring leaders to help them at work and beyond. Sound Bites "My brother could pick a fight with a wall when he was growing up." "It's not enough to simply stop; you have to replace it with something else." "Being a peacemaker means having productive dialogues about hard topics." "We use a lot of slogans in our society and a lot of catchphrases, and chief among them is diversity, equity, and inclusion." "Could there be something else that's motivating this person besides my assumption that they're acting out of bad motives?" "If you're just an argumentative jerk, you're probably never going to persuade anybody." "It's easy to be judgmental of other people, but we know so little about each other and about what's happening in our lives." "We have to actually put in extra effort to free ourselves from these echo chambers." Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:04 Start Of Interview 02:22 Steven's Background And Family Influence 05:34 Defining A Peacemaker 06:54 Navigating Potentially Toxic Work Conversation About Dei 10:14 Fights Into Treasure Hunts 12:48 How Technology, Social Media, And Dopamine Impact Dialogue 16:19 Seeking Real Learning And Avoiding Echo Chambers 20:44 Assuming The Best In Difficult Conversations 25:21 Handling Political Differences At Family Gatherings 28:25 Understanding Gaslighting 31:18 Applying Habits At Home 34:05 Wrap Up 34:27 Andy Comments After The Interview 38:32 Outtakes Learn More You can learn more about Steven and his books at StevenTCollis.com. Prepare to Pass Your Project Management Certification Exam We regularly help people just like you prepare and pass their PMP and CAPM certification exams. If you or someone you know is thinking about pursuing project management certification, contact us! We'd love to help you earn your credential. Learn more and enroll at i-leadonline.com/PMSeries. Thank you for joining me for this episode of The People and Projects Podcast! Talent Triangle: Power Skills   The following music was used for this episode: Music: Ignotus by Agnese Valmaggia License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Synthiemania by Frank Schroeter License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

In this conversation, project management expert Bill Dow shares his dynamic journey from data entry clerk to leading PMOs, emphasizing the essential soft skills and leadership qualities pivotal for success. He discusses the vital role of executive support for PMOs and the transformative influence of AI in project management—from its applications to challenges in data security. Bill also underlines the importance of perseverance and relationship-building, highlighting how continuous learning shapes effective project managers.

Summary In this episode, Andy talks with Rich Diviney, a retired Navy SEAL commander, about his book, The Attributes: 25 Drivers of Optimal Performance. Rich shares his insights on the difference between attributes and skills, the concept of optimal performance, and how understanding these attributes can help build high-performing teams. They also talk about the importance of dynamic subordination, the relevance of attributes in hiring processes, and how parents can help their children develop these essential traits. The conversation highlights the need to look beyond resumes and skills when evaluating team members and the value of understanding and developing attributes for individual and team success. If you're looking for an innovative way to better understand and develop yourself and your team, this is a must-listen episode. Sound Bites "In stress, challenge, and uncertainty, when things hit the fan, personality tends to go out the window. We're running on these very raw things called attributes." "We train for certainty; we educate for uncertainty." "Skills direct our behavior in known and specific environments, but attributes inform our behavior in unknown environments." "A high-performing team is one that performs optimally even when things are not going great." "Optimal performance means I'm going to do the very best in the moment, whatever the best looks like in that moment." "Dynamic subordination means that problems and challenges can come from any angle at any moment. The person who's closest to the problem, the most capable, immediately steps up and takes lead." "If someone is unwilling to take criticism, they are unwilling to understand what they're doing wrong. They're unwilling to step back and cede control. That is a dangerous place to be in." Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:04 Start Of Interview 04:02 Differentiating Skills From Attributes 07:20 Developing Attributes In High-Stress Environments 07:07 Story Of The Non-Swimmer At SEAL Training 08:45 Attributes Vs Character 09:33 The Role Of Context And Environment 12:19 Senior Leaders Who Get Defensive 16:15 The Role Of Narcissism And Optimal Performance 19:39 Peak Performance Vs Optimal Performance 31:26 Training For Certainty Vs. Educating For Uncertainty 33:25 Attributes In Marriage And Parenting 38:43 Wrap-Up Of Interview 39:07 Andy Comments After The Interview 42:02 Outtakes Learn More You can learn more about Rich and the attributes at TheAttributes.com. Prepare to Pass Your Project Management Certification Exam We regularly help people just like you prepare and pass their PMP and CAPM certification exams. If you or someone you know is thinking about pursuing project management certification, contact us! We'd love to help you earn your credential. Learn more and enroll at i-leadonline.com/PMSeries. Thank you for joining me for this episode of The People and Projects Podcast! Talent Triangle: Power Skills   The following music was used for this episode: Music: Echo by Alexander Nakarada License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Funny by Frank Schroeter License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license