The Happy Engineer | Career Success for Engineering Leadership

Imagine you work at Instagram when there are “only” 100 million users, and you need to make a technology decision that will help scale to 2 BILLION and beyond. What do you do?   Listen now for this amazing answer and more!   ============================   When you’re ready, here are three ways I can help you build your engineering career:   1. Grab my eBook … 49 tips you can apply immediately to stand out and move up, without any fancy degrees or certifications.   2. Join us at Happy Hour … my LIVE monthly workshop where we dig deep into career growth strategies and provide 1:1 open coaching for you at the end of the session.   3. Apply for the Lifestyle Engineering Blueprint™️ … get a free Career Growth Audit™️ and work with me and my team privately in our intensive coaching program, exclusively for engineering leaders. ============================   In this episode, we meet a leader who has gone from engineer, to CEO, then back to engineer, and back to CEO again, Pete Hunt.   If you want to make an impact through technology, and can’t decide if Fortune 100 or Inc. 1000 is right for you, or you struggle to make hard choices in engineering your career… then you are going to love learning from Pete.   In his early career, Pete led Instagram’s web team, built Instagram’s business analytics products, and helped to open source Facebook’s React.js (you can find him speaking at conferences around the world on YouTube).   After that, he co-founded and served as CEO of Smyte, an anti-abuse provider that was acquired by Twitter. During these experiences he discovered the keys to building and leading a data engineering team, and making hard choices like selecting an app’s tech stack.   Now, Pete is the CEO of Elementl which builds Dagster, an open-source data orchestration tool.   So press play and let’s chat… if 2 billion users are benefitting from Pete’s hard choices, you can too.   ============================   HAPPY ENGINEER COMMUNITY LINKS:   > Full Show Notes, Resources, & More   > Join our Facebook Group! Get access to bonus content and live coaching as growth-minded leaders build careers together.   ============================   WANT MORE AMAZING GUESTS?   “I love Zach and these amazing guests on The Happy Engineer Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please consider following, rating and reviewing the show!    I know it’s a huge favor to ask, but when you follow, leave a 5-star rating, and add an honest review of how these episodes are helping you… it’s a massive benefit for getting the attention of big name powerhouse guests on this show.    On Apple Podcasts, click our show, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with 5-stars, and select “Write a Review.”   Thank you so much.    ============================   Connect with your host, Zach White:   LinkedIn (primary) Instagram Facebook YouTube  

What is the path to financial freedom? Is more money in your 401(k) the right decision? How can engineers leverage their skills at work to accelerate their dream lifestyle?   Listen now for these answers and more!   ============================   When you’re ready, here are three ways I can help you build your engineering career:   1. Grab my eBook … 49 tips you can apply immediately to stand out and move up, without any fancy degrees or certifications.   2. Join me at Happy Hour … my LIVE monthly workshop where we dig deep into career growth strategies and provide 1:1 open coaching for you at the end of the session.   3. Apply for the Lifestyle Engineering Blueprint …work with me and my team privately in our intensive coaching program, exclusively for engineering leaders.   ============================   In this episode, we talk MONEY with a 20 year veteran of aerospace engineering who is now a full time investor and Founder of Vestus Capital, Flint Jamison.   Every engineering leader wants financial freedom, but how do you get there?   If your strategy is to follow the average advice, you’ll get average results. In the world we live in today, average results are just not good enough.   Flint and I discuss how burnout led him to ask new questions and innovate solutions for his financial future, and how you can do the same.  The best part is that these strategies are not just about creating wealth, but changing your experience at work and avoiding burnout as well.   So press play and let’s chat… because money freedom is not simply about making more money!   ============================   HAPPY ENGINEER COMMUNITY LINKS:   > Full Show Notes, Resources, & More   > Join our Facebook Group! Get access to bonus content and live coaching as growth-minded leaders build careers together.   ============================   WANT MORE AMAZING GUESTS?   “I love Zach and these amazing guests on The Happy Engineer Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please consider following, rating and reviewing the show!    I know it’s a huge favor to ask, but when you follow, leave a 5-star rating, and add an honest review of how these episodes are helping you… it’s a massive benefit for getting the attention of big name powerhouse guests on this show.    On Apple Podcasts, click our show, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with 5-stars, and select “Write a Review.”   Thank you so much.    ============================   Connect with your host, Zach White:   LinkedIn (primary) Instagram Facebook YouTube  

In this episode, networking expert Zach discusses how to put the principle of leading with generosity into practice at networking events. He shares a powerful question that can revolutionize networking encounters. Topics also include building relationships, the importance of proactive networking, challenges for engineering leaders, and the importance of investing in personal growth.

Aaron Hensler, Director of Technical Integration at Rivian, shares strategies for achieving work-life balance and prioritizing family values. Topics discussed include effective problem-solving, challenging self-limiting beliefs, and the power of interconnectedness in achieving success.

How sharp are your problem solving skills? What makes an organization Lean? Is it possible to take a 6-week process down to 6 MINUTES?   Listen now for these answers and more!   ============================   When you’re ready, here are three ways I can help you build your engineering career:   1. Grab my eBook … 49 tips you can apply immediately to stand out and move up, without any fancy degrees or certifications.   2. Join me at Happy Hour … my LIVE monthly workshop where we dig deep into career growth strategies and provide 1:1 open coaching for you at the end of the session.   3. Apply for the Lifestyle Engineering Blueprint …work with me and my team privately in our intensive coaching program, exclusively for engineering leaders.   ============================   In this episode, we uncover hard truths about what holds engineering leaders back with Founder of JFlinch, Jamie Flinchbaugh.   You probably pride yourself on your problem solving skills as an engineer. But are you as good as you think you are?   Jamie has helped purpose-driven leaders craft effective, resilient organizations at over 300 companies including Harley-Davidson, Intel, Amazon, Crayola, Fidelity, Whirlpool, and many others you would recognize.     We will help you understand what it takes to level up your value at work, and be an influential leader using concepts from his latest book, “People Solve Problems, The Power of Every Person, Every Day, Every Problem.”   Discover what makes your organization Lean, and what doesn’t.   So press play and let’s chat… you’ve probably got a problem, and you’re the person!   ============================   HAPPY ENGINEER COMMUNITY LINKS:   > Full Show Notes, Resources, & More   > Join our Facebook Group! Get access to bonus content and live coaching as growth-minded leaders build careers together.   ============================   WANT MORE AMAZING GUESTS?   “I love Zach and these amazing guests on The Happy Engineer Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please consider following, rating and reviewing the show!    I know it’s a huge favor to ask, but when you follow, leave a 5-star rating, and add an honest review of how these episodes are helping you… it’s a massive benefit for getting the attention of big name powerhouse guests on this show.    On Apple Podcasts, click our show, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with 5-stars, and select “Write a Review.”   Thank you so much.    ============================   Connect with your host, Zach White:   LinkedIn (primary) Instagram Facebook YouTube  

When is it time to fire an employee?  How do you know if firing is the right decision?   Listen now for these answers and more! ============================   When you’re ready, here are three ways I can help you build your engineering career:   1. Grab my eBook … 49 tips you can apply immediately to stand out and move up, without any fancy degrees or certifications.   2. Join me at Happy Hour … my LIVE monthly workshop where we dig deep into career growth strategies and provide 1:1 open coaching for you at the end of the session.   3. Apply for the Lifestyle Engineering Blueprint …work with me and my team privately in our intensive coaching program, exclusively for engineering leaders.   ============================   In this episode, we tackle the sensitive topic of managing underperforming team members and making the tough decision to let someone go.    We dive into the balance of tough love versus extending grace, and how hard personal circumstances can impact an individual's ability to perform.    We explore the question of whether empathy has been demonstrated in these situations, and share specific actions leaders must take to create A-player teams.   So press play and let’s chat… if you're a leader or manager struggling with hiring and firing decisions, this episode is a must-listen.   ============================   HAPPY ENGINEER COMMUNITY LINKS:   > Full Show Notes, Resources, & More   > Join our Facebook Group! Get access to bonus content and live coaching as growth-minded leaders build careers together.   ============================   WE GROW BY WORD OF MOUTH   If you have received value from The Happy Engineer PodCast, would you help us pay it forward by SHARING this episode with another engineer?   Hit the SHARE button, or copy the episode URL and paste it into a text message or social media post!   Thank you for helping us grow the show.   ============================   Connect with your host, Zach White:   LinkedIn (primary) Instagram Facebook YouTube

Is taking a helicopter 42 miles offshore part of your commute to work? Have you ever faced your work with the same willpower as your very will to live? As AI replaces jobs, how do you become irreplaceable?   Listen now for these answers and more!   ============================   When you’re ready, here are three ways I can help you build your engineering career:   1. Grab my eBook … 49 tips you can apply immediately to stand out and move up, without any fancy degrees or certifications.   2. Join me at Happy Hour … my LIVE monthly workshop where we dig deep into career growth strategies and provide 1:1 open coaching for you at the end of the session.   3. Apply for the Lifestyle Engineering Blueprint …work with me and my team privately in our intensive coaching program, exclusively for engineering leaders.   ============================   In this episode, we journey from the island, to the city, to an offshore oil platform in pursuit of wisdom from the life of energy management expert, Ryan Roper.   If you know that leaving a legacy through your life, your work, and your family matters deeply to you, then this episode is going to hit home.   Ryan’s career in the energy sector began at birth, being from one of the oldest oil provinces in the world, and is a true global expert with nearly two decades of hands-on experience.    We dismantle the power of fear that holds engineering leaders back from their potential, and how to face the uncertainty of a future full of innovation.  Whether it’s artificial intelligence and machine learning, transitioning toward net-zero and more sustainable energy solutions, or dozens of other areas, you need to be ready to face these challenges head on.   Ryan holds his Bachelors in Chemistry from Morehouse College, Bachelors in Chemical Engineering from Georgia Tech, Masters in Business and Energy Management from Arthur Lok Jack Global School of Business, and studied Data Analytics at Harvard.    So press play and let’s chat… you may not take a helicopter to work, but it’s time to get a 3,000 foot view on your life and happiness!   ============================   HAPPY ENGINEER COMMUNITY LINKS:   > Full Show Notes, Resources, & More   > Join our Facebook Group! Get access to bonus content and live coaching as growth-minded leaders build careers together.   ============================   WANT MORE AMAZING GUESTS?   “I love Zach and these amazing guests on The Happy Engineer Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please consider following, rating and reviewing the show!    I know it’s a huge favor to ask, but when you follow, leave a 5-star rating, and add an honest review of how these episodes are helping you… it’s a massive benefit for getting the attention of big name powerhouse guests on this show.    On Apple Podcasts, click our show, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with 5-stars, and select “Write a Review.”   Thank you so much.    ============================   Connect with your host, Zach White:   LinkedIn (primary) Instagram Facebook YouTube  

What is the difference between failure and a mistake? Do you fear failure, or is it something else beneath the surface you actually fear? How does this relate to culture at work?   Listen now for these answers and more!   ============================   When you’re ready, here are three ways I can help you build your engineering career:   1. Grab my eBook … 49 tips you can apply immediately to stand out and move up, without any fancy degrees or certifications.   2. Join me at Happy Hour … my LIVE monthly workshop where we dig deep into career growth strategies and provide 1:1 open coaching for you at the end of the session.   3. Apply for the Lifestyle Engineering Blueprint …work with me and my team privately in our intensive coaching program, exclusively for engineering leaders.   ============================   In this episode, we take a deep look at “The Mistakes that Make Us” with the award-winning author of a new book by that title, Mark Graban.   If your company struggles with cultivating a culture of learning and innovation that keeps you and your peers engaged, then you will deeply appreciate what Mark has discovered through his research and practical discovery as a Lean expert and consultant.   We cover a crucial distinction between mistakes and failure, how you don’t actually fear failure, how engineers can be a part of creating the culture at work rather than being a victim of it.   Mark has over half a million followers on LinkedIn who rely on him to help them synthesize and practice methods including Lean management, continuous improvement, statistical methods, and people-centered leadership approaches.   Mark has published multiple breakthrough books, earned a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from Northwestern University, and M.S. in Mechanical Engineering and M.B.A. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Leaders for Global Operations Program.   So press play and let’s chat… it might not be perfect but it’s our mistakes that make us!    ============================   HAPPY ENGINEER COMMUNITY LINKS:   > Full Show Notes, Resources, & More   > Join our Facebook Group! Get access to bonus content and live coaching as growth-minded leaders build careers together.   ============================   WANT MORE AMAZING GUESTS?   “I love Zach and these amazing guests on The Happy Engineer Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please consider following, rating and reviewing the show!    I know it’s a huge favor to ask, but when you follow, leave a 5-star rating, and add an honest review of how these episodes are helping you… it’s a massive benefit for getting the attention of big name powerhouse guests on this show.    On Apple Podcasts, click our show, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with 5-stars, and select “Write a Review.”   Thank you so much.    ============================   Connect with your host, Zach White:   LinkedIn (primary) Instagram Facebook YouTube  

Have you ever needed a vacation? Have you ever felt like going on a vacation was more work than it was worth, and you returned even more tired?   Listen now and find out the lie we are told about vacations!   ============================   When you’re ready, here are three ways I can help you build your engineering career:   1. Grab my eBook … 49 tips you can apply immediately to stand out and move up, without any fancy degrees or certifications.   2. Join me at Happy Hour … my LIVE monthly workshop where we dig deep into career growth strategies and provide 1:1 open coaching for you at the end of the session.   3. Apply for the Lifestyle Engineering Blueprint …work with me and my team privately in our intensive coaching program, exclusively for engineering leaders.   ============================   In this episode, I debunk the fallacy surrounding vacations as a remedy for work-related stress and dissatisfaction.   Summer is here and vacation plans are in the air. Join me as we explore a fresh mindset that encourages intentional time off for energy renewal, and a shift away from relying solely on vacations to address career burnout.    Discover practical strategies for achieving sustainable success and true rest that go beyond the traditional vacation narrative.   Get ready to redefine your approach to time off and unlock a new level of balance and fulfillment in your professional journey.   So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to rethink our vacation days!   ============================   HAPPY ENGINEER COMMUNITY LINKS:   > Full Show Notes, Resources, & More   > Join our Facebook Group! Get access to bonus content and live coaching as growth-minded leaders build careers together.   ============================   WE GROW BY WORD OF MOUTH   If you have received value from The Happy Engineer PodCast, would you help us pay it forward by SHARING this episode with another engineer?   Hit the SHARE button, or copy the episode URL and paste it into a text message or social media post!   Thank you for helping us grow the show.   ============================   Connect with your host, Zach White:   LinkedIn (primary) Instagram Facebook YouTube  

What’s the difference between niceness and kindness? What is the solution to our current leadership crisis? How can you neutralize negative self-talk?   Listen now for these answers and more!   ============================   When you’re ready, here are three ways I can help you build your engineering career:   1. Grab my eBook … 49 tips you can apply immediately to stand out and move up, without any fancy degrees or certifications.   2. Join me at Happy Hour … my LIVE monthly workshop where we dig deep into career growth strategies and provide 1:1 open coaching for you at the end of the session.   3. Apply for the Lifestyle Engineering Blueprint …work with me and my team privately in our intensive coaching program, exclusively for engineering leaders.   ============================   In this episode, we look at leadership through a new lens. Leadership expert and award-winning author Karyn Ross is on a mission to help us create a kinder and better world.   If power-hungry leaders who play the game of corporate politics have ever rubbed you the wrong way, or if you feel the pain of toxic leadership at work in any way, you will want to hear what Karyn has to say about kindness.   Karyn believes that kind leadership is the answer to our global leadership crisis.   Most engineering leaders also struggle with being kind to themselves. I’ll show you a simple exercise to neutralize that negative self-talk.   An artist, TEDx speaker, internationally recognized coach, Karyn is the owner of Karyn Ross Consulting and The New School for Kind Leaders. She is also the Founder and President of The Love and Kindness Project Foundation, a registered public charity and grass-roots movement, spreading kindness person to person around the world.   So press play and let’s chat… I may not always be nice, but I promise to be kind!   ============================   HAPPY ENGINEER COMMUNITY LINKS:   > Full Show Notes, Resources, & More   > Join our Facebook Group! Get access to bonus content and live coaching as growth-minded leaders build careers together.   ============================   WANT MORE AMAZING GUESTS?   “I love Zach and these amazing guests on The Happy Engineer Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please consider following, rating and reviewing the show!    I know it’s a huge favor to ask, but when you follow, leave a 5-star rating, and add an honest review of how these episodes are helping you… it’s a massive benefit for getting the attention of big name powerhouse guests on this show.    On Apple Podcasts, click our show, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with 5-stars, and select “Write a Review.”   Thank you so much.    ============================   Connect with your host, Zach White:   LinkedIn (primary) Instagram Facebook YouTube