People and Projects Podcast: Project Management Podcast

Andy interviews Ben Guttmann about designing clear messages, emphasizing simplicity, fluency, and minimalism. They discuss how linguistic complexity affects communication success and provide practical examples. Ben highlights the importance of effective communication in all project roles.

Tara Miller shares insights on project management, team dynamics, and career growth. She emphasizes the importance of building strong connections with team members and navigating challenges in project delivery. Discussion also includes the role of AI in project management and strategies for balancing personal and professional life.

Guest Gil Broza, author of Deliver Better Results, discusses the importance of systems thinking in value delivery and shares practical strategies for improving value delivery. He emphasizes the significance of mindset over tactics and provides examples of successful transformations. The Square model offers a framework for assessing system fitness, and resources on the book's website support implementing the discussed strategies.

Summary In this episode, Andy interviews author Anne Morris about key concepts from her book Move Fast and Fix Things: The Trusted Leader's Guide to Solving Hard Problems. She emphasizes the importance of building trust and moving fast in change initiatives. Morris introduces the FIX Map, which illustrates the relationship between trust and speed. She also explores the significance of inclusion and the power of storytelling in driving successful change. Additionally, Morris addresses common misconceptions about speed and shares insights on applying Agile principles to change management. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:25 Start of Interview 02:44 Discussion on the Phrase 'Move Fast and Break Things' 04:18 Introduction to the FIX Map Model 12:30 The Trust Triangle 15:19 Looking at Change Through Different Eyes 21:10 The Role of Storytelling in Change Initiatives 26:10 Overcoming Skepticism and Maintaining Focus 27:26 The Dangers of Delay and the Need for Action 29:40 The Influence of Agile Principles in Leadership 34:04 The Intersection of Leadership and Parenting 35:57 Andy Comments After the Interview 39:26 Outtakes Learn More You can learn more about Anne and her book at AnneAndFrances.com. And catch her TEDx Talk at https://www.ted.com/talks/anne_morriss_5_steps_to_fix_any_problem_at_work. If you’d like more on this topic, check out my discussion with Anne's co-author Frances Frei in episode 294 where we talk about their book Unleashed. AI for Project Managers and Leaders If you're not actively using AI on a daily basis, you might just be missing out. Join us for our course AI Made Simple. It's specifically tuned to everyday use cases for project managers and leaders. Join other colleagues from around the world who have found it immensely helpful! Thanks! 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: Summer Morning [Full version] by MusicLFiles Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/11262-summer-morning-full-version License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Fashion Corporate by Frank Schroeter Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/11233-fashion-corporate License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Summary In this episode, Andy Kaufman interviews Kayla McGuire, a seasoned project manager and coach who runs a boot camp to help people learn and prepare for becoming a freelancer. They discuss Kayla's journey to project management and freelancing, lessons in leading projects, practical tips for running projects, reasons for pursuing freelancing, common mistakes in freelancing, and the importance of mentors. Kayla also shares insights on using LinkedIn effectively and the value of continual learning and personal development. The episode concludes with information about Kayla's freelancer boot camp. Takeaways Consider the possibility of freelancing or becoming an entrepreneur to experience more fulfillment and freedom in your career. Recognize patterns in team dynamics and use pattern recognition to lead teams through projects more effectively. Empower your teams to get the job done by having conversations about their goals, providing resources for learning and development, and building strong relationships through one-on-one meetings. When considering freelancing, focus your energy on building your network and finding clients rather than spending time on non-essential tasks like website design or office remodeling. Chapters 00:00 Andy's Introduction to the Episode 01:57 Start of Interview 02:09 Kayla's Path to Project Management and Freelancing 06:00 Lessons in Leading Projects 12:06 The Lure of Freelancing: Freedom and Autonomy 15:03 Common Mistakes When Starting Freelancing 17:07 Introducing the Freelancer Bootcamp 19:10 The Importance of Finding Your Niche 19:39 Leveraging LinkedIn for Success 24:18 Continual Learning and Personal Development 31:05 Balancing Work and Personal Life 32:56 Final Thoughts Learn More You can learn more about Kayla and her boot camp at KaylaMcGuire.com. And connect with Kayla on LinkedIn at LinkedIn.com/in/KaylaMcGuire. Gift a Loved One a Head Start With Their Career Do you know someone dealing with career uncertainty? My experience is there are a growing number of people who dread being asked the question, “So, what’s the plan?” When it comes to their career, they have no freaking idea! I bring this up because I want you to check out our new course entitled just that: No Freaking Idea: How to Navigate Career Uncertainty. It’s a career guide for people who don’t know what they want to do, and it has been so fun to hear the feedback on the course. Whether you are wondering about the next steps in your career or it's a son or daughter and you'd like to give them a head start as a gift, learn more by going to NoFreakingIdea.courses. Thanks! Thank you for joining me for this episode of The People and Projects Podcast! Talent Triangle: Business Acumen   The following music was used for this episode: Music: Tranceverse by Sascha Ende Website: https://filmmusic.io/song/5223-tranceverse License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Tuesday by Sascha Ende Website: https://filmmusic.io/song/2992-tuesday License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Summary In this in-depth discussion, Andy is joined by Eduardo Briceño, author of The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset Into Action, to delve into the concepts of a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset. The conversation covers how these mindsets are not as binary or mutually exclusive as we may think, but rather can be found within us at different times and in different contexts. The theme of maintaining a balance between having a growth mindset, which holds the belief in the potential for change and improvement, and knowing when to lean into a fixed mindset, is explored. Eduardo advises on how to apply deliberate practice to improve performance and suggests viewing ourselves as evolving and changing. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:00 Start of Interview 02:09 Eduardo's Personal Journey and the Performance Paradox 04:29 Understanding the Performance Paradox 04:33 The Difference Between Learning and Performing 13:40 The Misconception of the 10,000 Hour Rule 16:51 Understanding the Growth Mindset 22:44 Applying Growth Mindset to Personal Goals 24:25 The Role of Identity in Growth Mindset 27:15 Creating a Learning Zone in Teams 32:23 Implementing Growth Mindset in Parenting 35:51 Andy's Comments About the Interview 40:00 Outtakes Learn More You can learn more about Eduardo and his book at Briceno.com. And catch his TEDx Talk at https://www.ted.com/talks/eduardo_briceno_how_to_get_better_at_the_things_you_care_about. If you’d like more on this topic, check out: Episode 202, Morten Hansen, Great at Work Episode 236, Amy Edmondson about her book on Psychological Safety Episode 240, Jim Detert, also about psychological safety Gift a Loved One a Head Start With Their Career Do you know someone dealing with career uncertainty? My experience is there are a growing number of people who dread being asked the question, “So, what’s the plan?” When it comes to their career, they have no freaking idea! I bring this up because I want you to check out our new course entitled just that: No Freaking Idea: How to Navigate Career Uncertainty. It’s a career guide for people who don’t know what they want to do, and it has been so fun to hear the feedback on the course. Whether you are wondering about the next steps in your career or it's a son or daughter and you'd like to give them a head start as a gift, learn more by going to NoFreakingIdea.courses. Thanks! 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: Summer Morning [Full version] by MusicLFiles Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/11262-summer-morning-full-version License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Fashion Corporate by Frank Schroeter Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/11233-fashion-corporate License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Summary In this conversation, Andy Kaufman interviews Micah Solomon, author of the book Can Your Customer Service Do This? Create an Anticipatory Customer Experience that Builds Loyalty Forever. They discuss the importance of customer service and how it applies to project managers and leaders, not just people in hospitality or retail. They explore examples of good and bad customer service experiences, debunk myths about customer service, and provide strategies for improving customer service. They also discuss the concept of gold touch customer service and how it can be applied to internal customer service. The conversation concludes with insights on effective communication and developing a customer service mindset. Takeaways Customer service is important in all industries, not just hospitality or retail. Examples of good and bad customer service can provide valuable insights for improving customer service. There are common myths and misunderstandings about customer service that need to be debunked. Gold touch customer service involves going above and beyond to provide exceptional service. Effective communication and a customer service mindset are key to delivering great customer service. Chapters 00:00 Andy's Intro to the Episode 02:40 Introduction to Micah Solomon and his book 04:46 Myths and Misunderstandings about Customer Service 06:12 Improving Customer Service 09:28 Gold Touch Customer Service 10:51 Internal Customer Service 13:44 Difference between Function and Purpose 18:19 The Service Recovery Paradox 20:15 Dealing with Customer Service Failures 21:21 Phrasing and Language in Customer Service 25:02 Developing a Customer Service Mindset 27:00 Andy's Summary of Key Takeaways 32:03 Outtakes You can learn more about Micah and his book at MicahSolomon.com. Gift a Loved One a Head Start With Their Career Do you know someone who is in college or maybe recently graduated? My experience is there are a growing number of people who dread being asked the question, “So, what’s the plan?” When it comes to their career, they have no freaking idea! I bring this up because I want you to check out our new course entitled just that: No Freaking Idea: How to Navigate Career Uncertainty. It’s a career guide for people who don’t know what they want to do, and it has been so fun to hear the feedback on the course. Whether you are wondering about the next steps in your career or it's a son or daughter and you'd like to give them a head start as a gift, learn more by going to NoFreakingIdea.courses. Thanks! 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: The Fantastical Ferret by Tim Kulig Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/12070-the-fantastical-ferret License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Fashion Corporate by Frank Schroeter Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/11233-fashion-corporate License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Summary In this episode, Andy Kaufman celebrates the 400th episode of the People in Projects Podcast with special guest Adam Grant. They discuss Adam's new book, Hidden Potential, and the importance of assessing and unlocking potential in individuals. The conversation covers various topics, including keeping projects on track, the truth about hiring based on experience, a lesson Adam learned about feedback that he's a terrible writer, and overcoming criticism. Adam reflects on the past and future, including what he misses (and doesn't miss) about being Adam Grant in 2010 (when Andy and Adam first talked).  Takeaways Assessing and unlocking potential is crucial in various aspects of life, and the judgments people make of our potential can have a significant impact. Perfectionism can hinder progress, and it is important to separate our identity from our work. The value of experience in hiring is often overestimated, and potential should be prioritized over years of experience. Saying no and setting boundaries is essential to avoid overcommitment and maintain focus on important projects. Even if initially difficult, receiving feedback can lead to valuable insights and improvements. A practical AI chatbot use case that Adam tries Expressing appreciation to those who have seen and nurtured our potential is important, and we should also assess the potential of others and encourage their growth. You can learn more about Adam and his book at AdamGrant.net. For More on This Topic To catch Andy's previous conversations with Adam, check out: Episode 31, where we talk about leading teams with meaning, and Episode 93, where we talk about his book Give and Take Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Celebration 02:50 Start of the Interview 03:12 What are You Glad is Getting Attention / Thought Would Get More Attention in Your Book 03:52 Lessons on Keeping Projects on Track 04:46 Something People Think Is True But Is Not Supported With Evidence 05:45 How Adam Decides on Saying Yes or No 06:16 How Does Adam Calm Nerves 07:27 You Suck at Writing, Adam! How to Receive Feedback and Overcome Criticism 08:37 What Adam Recently Used a Chatbot For 09:26 What Does Adam Miss About Being Him in 2010 / Not Miss 10:26 What Would You Ask Future Adam? 11:39 Adam Takes Over as the Host 12:50 Adam Asks About Podcasting 14:07 Adam Says Nice Things About Andy 16:04 Andy Comments after the Interview 20:19 Outtakes from Before We Started the Interview 21:32 Sample Intro from Episode 1 (Man, it was bad!) Gift a Loved One a Head Start With Their Career Do you know someone who is in college or maybe recently graduated? My experience is there are a growing number of people who dread being asked the question, “So, what’s the plan?” When it comes to their career, they have no freaking idea! I bring this up because I want you to check out our new course entitled just that: No Freaking Idea: How to Navigate Career Uncertainty. It’s a career guide for people who don’t know what they want to do, and it has been so fun to hear the feedback on the course. Whether you are wondering about the next steps in your career or it's a son or daughter and you'd like to give them a head start as a gift, learn more by going to NoFreakingIdea.courses. Thanks! Thank you for joining me for this anniversary episode of The People and Projects Podcast! Talent Triangle: Power Skills   The following music was used for this episode: Music: Celebrate Your Wins [Full version] by MusicLFiles Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/10381-celebrate-your-wins-full-version License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Funky Life by WinnieTheMoog Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/6040-funky-life License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Summary In this conversation, Andy interviews Doug Lennick and Chuck Wachendorfer about their book Don't Wait for Someone Else to Fix It! They discuss the importance of managing ourselves effectively, practicing self-awareness, and mastering our behavior. They also emphasize the significance of integrity and responsibility in leadership. The conversation explores barriers to better decision-making and the importance of continuous learning. The interview concludes with insights on how parents can apply leadership lessons in their role at home. Takeaways Managing ourselves effectively is crucial for effective leadership. Practicing self-awareness and using tools like the freeze game can help us make better choices. Integrity and responsibility are essential for leadership success. Emotional reflexiveness and biases can hinder decision-making. Continuous learning and letting go of what we know are key to personal and professional growth. Leadership lessons can be applied in the home to foster better relationships and decision-making. You can learn more about Doug and Chuck and their work at Think2Perform.com. For More on This Topic For more on this topic, check out: Episode 391, with Adam Bryant on his book about making the leap to leadership Episode 366, with Michael Timms on his book about accountability, and Episode 292, with Jeffrey Scott Miller about his book on leadership. Gift a Loved One a Head Start With Their Career Do you know someone who is in college or maybe recently graduated? My experience is there are a growing number of people who dread being asked the question, “So, what’s the plan?” When it comes to their career, they have no freaking idea! I bring this up because I want you to check out our new course entitled just that: No Freaking Idea: How to Navigate Career Uncertainty. It’s a career guide for people who don’t know what they want to do, and it has been so fun to hear the feedback on the course. Whether you are wondering about the next steps in your career or it's a son or daughter and you'd like to give them a head start as a gift, learn more by going to NoFreakingIdea.courses. Thanks! 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: On Point by Steven OBrien Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/11694-on-point License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Synthiemania by Frank Schroeter Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/11809-synthiemania License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Project Manager Burnout There is so much focus these days on getting more done with less. Delivering faster. Increasing efficiency. Being excellent at work while rocking it all well at home too, right? And though I’m all for staying focused and productive, here’s something I’ve observed. One consequence of trying to stay hyper-productive and being everything you can possibly be--or feel like you should be--can be increased stress. Less downtime. More hours. More caffeine. Less sleep. And all of that can lead to burnout. So what can we do about that? Today I’m excited to introduce you to Dr. Neha Sangwan. She’s the author of a new book entitled  Powered by Me: From Burned Out to Fully Charged at Work and in Life. In this episode, you’ll get a better idea of what leads to burnout, beyond just the typical drivers that come to mind, such as physical exhaustion. Neha provides practical ideas and techniques to help us catch when we’re starting to drift towards burnout. It's a discussion I've been looking forward to sharing with you! You can learn more about Neha and her work at NehaSangwan.com. For more on this topic, check out: Episodes 106 and 132, with Tom Rath about his books on these themes. Episode 395, with Josefine Campbell about her book on helping when you and your team are low on energy, and Episode 397, with Dr. Julia DiGangi about her book on emotions. Gift a Loved One a Head Start With Their Career Do you know someone who is in college or maybe recently graduated? My experience is there are a growing number of people who dread being asked the question, “So, what’s the plan?” When it comes to their career, they have no freaking idea! I bring this up because I want you to check out our new course entitled just that: No Freaking Idea: How to Navigate Career Uncertainty. It’s a career guide for people who don’t know what they want to do, and it has been so fun to hear the feedback on the course. Whether you are wondering about the next steps in your career or it's a son or daughter and you'd like to give them a head start as a gift, learn more by going to NoFreakingIdea.courses. Thanks! 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: Summer Awakening by Frank Schroeter Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/10912-summer-awakening License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Fashion Corporate by Frank Schroeter Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/11233-fashion-corporate License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license