Agile Mentors Podcast

Unveiling the truth behind Agile coaching! Brian sits down with Lucy O'Keefe to debunk the misconceptions, share the keys to effective coaching, and share their insight on the one-two punch of training and coaching for sustainable success. Overview In this episode of the "Agile Mentors" podcast, Brian sits down with Lucy O'Keefe to debunk the misconceptions and unveil the true role of Agile coaches. They share their personal stories and revelations and explore the pros and cons of moving from Scrum Master to Agile coach. They'll walk listeners through the transformative power of external perspectives, navigating conflicts, and the collaborative mindset that fosters meaningful change. Plus, hear Lucy's invaluable advice on finding mentors and embarking on the journey to becoming a certified Team Coach. Listen Now to Discover: [01:10] - Brian welcomes CTC Agile Coach & Trainer Lucy O'Keefe, to the show for today’s discussion on the true role (and the common misconceptions about) of an Agile coach [02:17] - Lucy shares her initial misconception about agile coaches and how it shaped her perception of their role. [03:02] - Brian relates his experience with the term "Agile Coach" and his revelation when delving into the subject. [04:16] - Lucy and Brian reflect on their transitions from exceptional Scrum Masters to agile coaching roles. [05:53] - The pros, cons, and trade-offs of transitioning from a Scrum Master to an Agile coach. [06:32] - The shift in focus that comes with Agile coaching and what to consider to determine if this change aligns with your preferences and career aspirations. [07:12] - There's nothing wrong with being a kick *** Scrum Master. The world needs lots more like you. [07:51] -How your role as a coach involves assisting your team and organization in their pursuit of progress (or debunking the myth of perfection in Agile). [08:11] - An Agile coach is NOT merely an elevated Scrum Master. [08:33] - The two opposing misconceptions about Agile coaching and the multifaceted aspects of coaching by Bob Galen. [09:20] - Lucy emphasizes the importance of wearing multiple hats and the diverse skills required as an Agile coach. [10:26] -Avoid the “Ferris Bueller's Day Off” scenario and ensure effective communication. [11:16] - Learn to read the signs and strike the right balance to avoid frustrating situations and empower meaningful progress. [11:54] - Professional coaching requires a willingness to engage deeply and tackle tough issues. [13:38] - Knowing where to step in and when it's time not to step in. [14:07] - Brian introduces the sponsor for this podcast episode, Mountain Goat Software, and their exceptional Scrum certification classes that go beyond a traditional online whiteboard for a fun and effective way to achieve learning objectives. [14:52] - Effectively communicating the value proposition of having a team or enterprise coach. [15:41] - The dynamics of internal and external coaches within organizations. And the transformative impact that external coaches can have on an organization’s ability to address impediments effectively. [16:58] - Lucy shares how to approach coaching with a collaborative mindset, helping organizations see the value of change rather than imposing it and the questions. Agile coaches conduct assessments to uncover hidden issues to guide organizations to the areas for improvement. [19:18] - Resistance to change often stems from fear of the unknown rather than change itself. [19:57] - The most important thing to understand to help organizations reach the outcome they want and make the changes they need to make to get there. [20:15] - Brian draws a parallel between the value of a coach and that of a therapist and how an outside viewpoint proves highly beneficial in understanding and addressing systemic issues within teams. [21:29] - Asking the right questions to resolve the underlying issues through Agile coaching. [22:42] - What coaches can and can't help with—knowing your limits as a coach and the lines NOT to cross to keep your coaching journey on track. [23:40] -Don't settle for just training; go for the one-two punch of training and coaching—the winning combination that propels sustainable change. [25:48] -Why would you need to take a class? Even Bob Galen realizes he always needs to grow and learn in what he’s doing to avoid becoming irrelevant. [26:37] - Act with curiosity, but not curiosity for our own sake. [27:30] - Lucy offers her advice for people who want to become a Certified Team Coach (CTC). [29:02] - How to find the mentors that will offer you the most growth. [29:55] If you have feedback for the show or topics for future episodes, email us by clicking here (if you have yet to get a response, send another one as something has gone wrong in the process). And don’t forget to subscribe to the “Agile Mentors” Podcast on Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. [30:49] - Remember that Brian and Mike will speak at this year's Agile 2023 Conference in Orlando in July. References and resources mentioned in the show: #42: The Importance of Self-Mastery with Bob Galen Agile2023! Certified Scrum Master Training and Scrum Certification Mountain Goat Software Certified Scrum and Agile Training Schedule Join the Agile Mentors Community Subscribe to the "Agile Mentors" Podcast on Apple Podcasts Want to get involved? This show is designed for you, and we’d love your input. Enjoyed what you heard today? Please leave a rating and a review. It really helps, and we read every single one. Got an Agile subject you’d like us to discuss or a question that needs an answer? Share your thoughts with us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com This episode’s presenters are: Brian Milner is the SVP of coaching and training at Mountain Goat Software. He's passionate about making a difference in people's day-to-day work, influenced by his own experience of transitioning to Scrum and seeing improvements in work/life balance, honesty, respect, and the quality of work. Lucy O'Keefe has over 28 years of IT experience and has worn multiple hats in the Agile world - developer, Product Owner, and Scrum Master and now, as a Teaching Assistant, where she leverages her diverse background to ensure students have an exceptional training experience.

Join Brian and Agile pioneer Jim Highsmith as they dive into the riveting saga of 17 tech rebels who defied convention, unleashed their passions, and revolutionized the world of software development. Overview In this episode of the "Agile Mentors" podcast, Brian sits down with Agile pioneer Jim Highsmith to share how 17 tech rebels reshaped the software landscape. Jim shares captivating stories from his time working with NASA and Nike to the collaboration of 17 nonconformists that led to the Agile Manifesto and transformed the software industry. Listen in for a behind-the-scenes look at the circumstances that led to the birth of Agile and how camaraderie, collaboration, and a human-centric approach sparked a wildfire of support for the Agile movement. Tune in to this episode for insights, lessons, and a glimpse into the future of Agile from an industry legend. Listen Now to Discover: [01:10] - Brian introduces Jim Highsmith, a renowned figure in the Agile community. Jim is an experienced software developer, writer, and storyteller. His latest book, "Wild West to Agile," has become a sensation in the industry, earning the top spot as a new release on Amazon. He also co-authored the Agile Manifesto and the Declaration of Interdependence for Project Leaders, co-founded the Agile Alliance, and served as the first president of the Agile Leadership Network. [03:57] - Jim recounts his journey working on the NASA Apollo program and how the constant advancements in technology shaped the course of the Apollo project, offering valuable insights into the era's challenges and adaptability. [08:47] - Jim shares a fascinating story from his time at Nike, where outdated requirements left a project stagnant for 18 months. [10:34] - How waterfall methodologies left companies trapped and projects taking too long and costing too much. [11:53] - Setting the stage for the revolutionary Agile movement. [13:16] - A problem so painful leadership was on board to find a solution. [14:48] - A message from our sponsor: Mountain Goat Software has courses from Certified Scrum Master Training and Scrum Certification to Certified Scrum Product Owner Training that equips you with the sought-after skills valued by top-notch teams. Visit the Mountain Goat website for all the details. [15:40] -Jim reveals the connections and common ground that started the manifesto meeting. [18:21] - An agenda-free meeting with 17 nonconformist experts seeking common ground and how an encounter with Steve Mellor led to an unexpected alignment of intent. [21:01] - 17 individuals, each with nonconformist perspectives, agree. [21:17] - Why did 17 audacious techies revolutionize the world? And what lessons can we learn from their experience for the future? [23:39] - Where Agile's lasting impact lies and what keeps it at the forefront of change. [24:39] - Putting aside competition for collaboration and cooperation that led to change. [25:30] - What keeps Agile at the forefront of change? Brian shares a nugget of wisdom from Jim's book about Agilists. [26:38] - Finally, a language that spoke to us all!—how the Agile movement shattered the notion of interchangeable cogs and embraced our humanity, sparking a wildfire of support. [27:59] - Jim shares his thoughts on where he thinks the Agile movement is headed and why he thinks the agility of organizations and people will be a definite advantage in the future. [29:56] - Brian mentions his high recommendation for listeners to pick up Jim’s book, Wild West to Agile: Adventures in Software Development Evolution and Revolution. [31:38] - There are a ton of podcasts out there; thank you for taking the time to listen to this one. And don’t forget to subscribe to the “Agile Mentors” Podcast on Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. [32:05] - If you've considered taking a CSM or CSPO class, check us out at Mountain Goat Software. Or join the conversation in our Agile Mentors Community. [32:32] - If you have feedback for the show or topics for future episodes, email us by clicking here, and I'll get back to you ASAP. References and resources mentioned in the show: Jim Highsmith Jim Highsmith on LinkedIn Wild West to Agile Agile Manifesto Agile Alliance Agile Leadership Network Certified Scrum Master Training and Scrum Certification Certified Scrum Product Owner Training Advanced Certified ScrumMaster® Advanced Certified Scrum Product Owner® Mountain Goat Software Certified Scrum and Agile Training Schedule Join the Agile Mentors Community Subscribe to the "Agile Mentors" Podcast on Apple Podcasts Want to get involved? This show is designed for you, and we’d love your input. Enjoyed what you heard today? Please leave a rating and a review. It really helps, and we read every single one. Got an Agile subject you’d like us to discuss or a question that needs an answer? Share your thoughts with us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com This episode’s presenters are: Brian Milner is SVP of coaching and training at Mountain Goat Software. He's passionate about making a difference in people's day-to-day work, influenced by his own experience of transitioning to Scrum and seeing improvements in work/life balance, honesty, respect, and the quality of work. Jim Highsmith is an experienced software developer, writer, storyteller, and industry pioneer recognized for his instrumental role in the birth of the Agile movement. His latest book, "Wild West to Agile," has become a sensation in the industry, earning the top spot as a new release on Amazon. Jim continues to inspire and guide Agile enthusiasts worldwide through his insightful stories and expertise.

Gain insights into building cohesive and agile teams that bleed into each other and explore how conflicts can be transformed into opportunities for growth and improvement when Brian and his guest Julie Chickering delve into how to create team safety. Overview: In this episode of the "Agile Mentors" podcast, Brian sits down with Julie Chickering to explore the topic of team safety. They dive deep into the concept of psychological safety and its impact on team dynamics and productivity. From navigating conflicts and encouraging participation to embracing multiple perspectives and detaching personal worth from ideas, Brian and Julie provide valuable insights and actionable advice for Scrum Masters and team members alike. Join them as they uncover the secrets to creating a cohesive and psychologically safe environment where teams thrive and excel. Listen Now to Discover: [01:12] - Brian welcomes Julie Chickering back to the show. Teams need to feel safe and agile to be successful; that's a foundational aspect of a team. So, we're talking about team safety today. [02:12] - Julie shares how one Manhattan bartender described her team that works well together; she says it feels like "we bleed into each other." [04:11] - Sometimes people misuse or abuse the safe space, having each other's back as a license to be rude. [04:57] - From pointing fingers to fixing problems together. [05:39] - Julie shares a book called "The Culture Playbook" by Daniel Coyle and a quote on distinguishing between relational conflict and task conflict. [06:38] - Protecting team dynamics: Learn how to navigate conflicts that escalate into personal territory and regain focus on improvement. [07:37] - Effective strategies to steer discussions back to areas of agreement and keep the focus on facts. [08:09] - Embracing multiple perspectives: Explore scenarios where opposing ideas are equally feasible and the importance of making a choice and moving forward. [08:51] - Sometimes safety is misconstrued and used to stop discussions. [09:17] - How to encourage participation based on comfort levels and through smaller group sharing. [10:00] - The true meaning of safety. [10:54] - Tension-free environments don't always lead to productive cultures: why disagreements are vital for meaningful discussions. [11:33] - Detaching personal worth from ideas so you can focus on finding the best solution (vital as the Scrum Master). [12:42] - How to facilitate conversations by focusing on facts and using visual aids to encourage objectively analyzing multiple ideas. [13:00] - Nurturing sensitive team members: strategies to create a sense of safety for individuals who are more susceptible to critique to ensure them of the value of their contributions. [14:13] - Why you should avoid labeling opinions as “wrong” and how assuming positive intent fosters a sense of safety. [14:45] - The challenge of assuming positive intent (especially in written communication). [15:21] - How to empower team members to define operating agreements that foster a sense of safety and a respectful working environment. [17:23] - This podcast is sponsored by Mountain Goat Software's Certified Scrum classes, including Certified Scrum Master (CSM), Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO), Advanced Certified Scrum Master (ACSM), and Advanced Certified Scrum Product Owner (ACSPO). Mike Cohn taught his first Scrum classes in 1997, and since then, more than 24K people have chosen to train with Mountain Goat Software. All certified classes include a twelve-month Agile Mentors Community membership. [18:08] - How to open communication lines when unintentional offenses occur during interactions. [18:49] - Scrum, though a simple framework, becomes complex when people's dynamics come into play. [19:22] - Brian shares that achieving psychological safety requires a cultural shift and agreement among team members to express opinions freely. [20:54] - Julie shares why psychological safety matters. [22:09] - When the swirl of uncertainty and lack of safety is removed, teams can accomplish more due to increased productivity and effectiveness. [22:34] - Brian shares some tips for Scrum Masters to make psychological safety a focal point if it is lacking within their teams. [23:40] - Julie discusses the importance of understanding and supporting team members beyond Scrum practices and offers advice on ensuring everyone on the team is heard. [25:15] - The secret to team cohesion: how sharing coffee preferences can build a sense of safety and collaboration within your team. [25:51] - Julie explores the challenge of fostering a sense of team and safety at the corporate level and why starting at the team level is the key to cultivating a culture of trust and psychological safety, even in the face of external obstacles. [27:31] - Julie delves into why teams work in a particular way and how aligning work practices with the desired outcomes can positively impact results. [28:04] - How fostering psychological safety improves human interactions and drives better products, higher quality, and faster delivery. [28:51] - How to address safety concerns with higher-ups. [29:53] - The dangers of dismantling high-performing teams prematurely: the importance of nurturing team cohesion and the pitfalls of overlooking this critical aspect. [30:42] - Brian shares how protecting the team sometimes involves making tough decisions and advocating for a better fit for both the individual and the team. [32:06] - Julie’s parting advice encourages teams to assess their current state, ask critical questions, and collaboratively work towards creating a more cohesive and psychologically safe environment. [33:06] - If you have feedback for the show or topics for future episodes, email us by clicking here. And don’t forget to subscribe to the “Agile Mentors” Podcast on Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. [33:46] - Look for a different type of show coming to you during our July "break." References and resources mentioned in the show: The Culture Playbook: 60 Highly Effective Actions to Help Your Group Succeed Certified Scrum Master Training and Scrum Certification Certified Scrum Product Owner Training Advanced Certified ScrumMaster® Advanced Certified Scrum Product Owner® Mountain Goat Software Certified Scrum and Agile Training Schedule Join the Agile Mentors Community Subscribe to the Agile Mentors Podcast on Apple Podcasts Want to get involved? This show is designed for you, and we’d love your input. Enjoyed what you heard today? Please leave a rating and a review. It really helps, and we read every single one. Got an Agile subject you’d like us to discuss or a question that needs an answer? Share your thoughts with us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com This episode’s presenters are: Brian Milner is SVP of coaching and training at Mountain Goat Software. He's passionate about making a difference in people's day-to-day work, influenced by his own experience of transitioning to Scrum and seeing improvements in work/life balance, honesty, respect, and the quality of work. Julie Chickering is the brains and brawn behind JC Agile Consulting, believes that Lean and Agile practices are packed with potential — to enable positive culture change, business agility, and breakthrough results. Julie is a past president and board member of the Agile Project Management Network (APLN), a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST), PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP), as well as a traditional Project Management Professional (PMP).

Join Brian and his guest Lance Dacy as they explore the key differences, skill sets required, and the exciting opportunities in the roles of Scrum Master and Product Owner. Overview In this episode of the "Agile Mentors" podcast, Brian sits down with Lance Dacy to explore the dynamic roles of Scrum Master and Product Owner. They delve into the fundamental differences between these roles, highlighting the unique skill sets required for each. Lance shares his valuable insights and personal experiences, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities that arise in these pivotal positions. Whether you're considering a career in Agile or seeking to enhance your understanding of Scrum, listen in to this episode for practical advice and guidance for aspiring Scrum Masters and Product Owners and a deeper understanding of the crucial roles they play in driving successful projects and maximizing team productivity. Listen Now to Discover: [01:17] - Brian Milner has Lance Dacy on the show today to talk about a question emailed to the listener email address about the two different approaches to Scrum and which class would be a good fit for you, a Certified Scrum Master (CSM) or a Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO). [02:28] - Lance shares how he looks at the two different designations and what he looks at as the centerpiece of the process of Scrum. [03:24] - Things to consider when deciding whether the CSM or the CSPO is right for you. [04:34] - Where to start your Scrum journey as a beginner and when taking both the CSM and the Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) classes might be beneficial. [05:28] - You don't have to be a Scrum Master to benefit from the CSM class. [05:54] - The dual focus of the Product Owner roles and the diminishment of Scrum roles. [06:45] - The challenge of combining these roles effectively. [07:54] - The goal is to be agile rather than just doing Scrum-Lance shares the importance of delivering value efficiently and early. Relegating the Scrum Master to facilitation and metrics tasks yields minimal ROI. [08:28] - Do you ever see the coach playing the game? [09:10] - Scrum is a tool - you have to know the tools, how to apply them, and, more importantly, how to use them for the appropriate case. [10:16] - The distinction between programmers (those who code) and developers (anyone working to produce the product) and a look back at the developer role in Scrum. [11:34] - What confuses most people about the different classes and roles. [12:28] - The importance (and top challenges teams face) of capacity planning, Sprint planning, and daily work management in Scrum teams. Lance shares why addressing these aspects is valuable for software and product teams, including marketing and infrastructure teams. [13:44] - The value of certifications as a standard and an advantage in certain situations, but it's like learning to drive - experience is crucial. [15:42] - The importance of learning the values, principles, and tools associated with Agile methodologies to engage in experimentation and gain practical experience, whether a CSM, CSPO, or CSV. [16:25] - How active involvement in user groups and communities (such as the DFW Scrum user group) provides valuable insights and career benefits, fostering collective knowledge sharing and continuous learning in Scrum (and beyond). [17:23] - Mountain Goat Software, the sponsor for this podcast, offers certified LIVE online Scrum classes, including Certified Scrum Master (CSM), Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO), Advanced Certified Scrum Master (ACSM) and Advanced Certified Scrum Product Owner (ACSPO) classes. Book more than three weeks in advance for an early bird discount of $100. [18:38] - Lance shares the three characteristics of a great product owner. [19:28] - Advice for what you should do if you’re starting from scratch and aiming to become a product owner to gain exposure and valuable experience in the field. [21:28] - The likelihood of moving from Scrum Master to product owner rather than vice versa. [22:47] - The four requirements of becoming a Scrum Master requires strong facilitation, teaching, mentoring, and coaching skills, and the demands of being a product owner that makes it a higher barrier for entry. [23:52] - The focus of a Scrum Master vs. a product owner. [24:48] - It's like being the Zamboni for a hockey team—as a Scrum Master, you have the opportunity to work in diverse industries, ranging from space science and astrophysics to finance and software development, without being an expert in those domains. [26:34] - A safer environment for experimentation and growth without the high stakes of individual accountability. [26:58] - Brian shares the primary determining factor in deciding between product owner or Scrum master. [27:51] - In the movie-making industry, like in software teams, there are distinct roles and responsibilities. You can choose to define the problem, manage the process, or contribute to building the product—pick your door and start running (and if you don't like it, you can always switch). [29:06] Real knowledge comes from doing, BUT a class can get you started on the right foot to understanding how to do things and getting your hands dirty to cement further what you want to do. [30:26] - Lance shares how obtaining a CSM or CSPO certification is like earning a black belt in karate—it's a pathway that empowers you to explore. [33:24] - Still on the fence? Send us a note, and we'll gladly help you find your path. [33:40] - Check out the Mountain Goat's training schedule to attend a class with Lance or Brian. [34:01] - Exciting news! We have introduced an Agile Professional Directory to our Agile Mentors community. As a member, you can now sign up and claim your certifications, allowing you to showcase your expertise when interacting with others on the site. [34:35] - Don’t forget, Mountain Goat Software offers a range of classes, including Certified Scrum Master (CSM), Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO), Advanced Certified Scrum Master (ACSM), and Advanced Certified Scrum Product Owner (ACSPO). We love having podcast listeners join our classes to explore further the topics discussed on the show (click here to subscribe). References and resources mentioned in the show: Certified Scrum Master Training and Scrum Certification Certified Scrum Product Owner Training Advanced Certified ScrumMaster® Advanced Certified Scrum Product Owner® #4: The Developer Role in Scrum with Sherman Gomberg DFW Scrum (Dallas, TX) | Meetup Mountain Goat Software Certified Scrum and Agile Training Schedule Join the Agile Mentors Community Subscribe to the Agile Mentors Podcast on Apple Podcasts Want to get involved? This show is designed for you, and we’d love your input. Enjoyed what you heard today? Please leave a rating and a review. It really helps, and we read every single one. Got an Agile subject you’d like us to discuss or a question that needs an answer? Share your thoughts with us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com This episode’s presenters are: Brian Milner is SVP of coaching and training at Mountain Goat Software. He's passionate about making a difference in people's day-to-day work, influenced by his own experience of transitioning to Scrum and seeing improvements in work/life balance, honesty, respect, and the quality of work. Lance Dacy is a Certified Scrum Trainer®, Certified Scrum Professional®, Certified ScrumMaster®, and Certified Scrum Product Owner®. Lance brings a great personality and servant's heart to his workshops. He loves seeing people walk away with tangible and practical things they can do with their teams straight away.

Join Brian as he rediscovers and relives the most captivating topics, memorable guests, and impactful topics from the first year of the “Agile Mentors” podcast. Overview From deep dives into Agile methodologies and practical tips for using your knowledge to benefit others and foster change, the first 50 episodes of the “Agile Mentor” podcast have been filled with fascinating topics and memorable guests. In this episode, Brian Milner embarks on a retrospective journey through the inaugural year of the show. Listen in as he shares the real stars of the podcast, the moments that surprised him, those that took him out of his comfort zone, and the ones that inspired him to push to be better every day! Plus, what’s next for the show. Listen Now to Discover: [00:45] - Brian introduces the retrospective episode to celebrate one year and 50 episodes of the "Agile Mentors" podcast and share what's next. [01:54] - A thank you for YOUR role in the show. [02:17] - The role of marrying the right topic to the right guest. [02:56] - The format that allows listeners to choose the episodes that interest them the most. [04:03] - Pointing you toward the best of the best. Our first several episodes were focused on the Agile Framework and some core topics, including having Mike Cohn on to talk about the different roles and generally accepted practices. [05:13] - Sending out thanks to a few of our guests, including the trainers at Mountain Goat Software, including Lance Dacy. [05:45] - Kert Peterson joined us to share his knowledge, and Scott Dunn shared his insight from the product owner's perspective. [06:05] - On episode 16, Mitch Lacey joined us to discuss The Hidden Secret Ingredient And Julie Chickering brought a great perspective from a project management background and applying that to some of the stuff we've discussed here on the show. [06:39] - The time when one of my mentors joined us on the show to discuss transformation. [07:08] - Learning about coaching and marketing from the best! [07:27] - Roman Pitchler joined us to discuss product roadmaps and planning things from a product owner perspective. And John Miller shared about using Scrum in the education environment. [07:46] - On EP25, Henrik Nieberg came on and talked to us about scaling, and on EP27, Tricia Broderick walked us through leadership without blame. [08:18] - How Scrum can be applied outside of software development and mob programming. [08:42] - The key to working with humans. [09:03] - The episode that surprised Brian a little bit. [09:34] - Three episodes all about change: The first one was about how one organization uses Scrum to help impoverished micro-entrepreneurs succeed (and change their lives). The second featured Chris Li sharing his insight on how to know when it’s time to strike out on your own, and Karim Harbott walked us through the difficulty of transforming an organization's culture. [10:25] - The episode that inspired Brian to try to push in different ways to get better. And how to cultivate an Agile culture in a virtual world. [10:53] - Why transformations take people, how to assess a company’s culture before you accept their job offer, and lean thinking in Agile with Bob Payne. [11:49] - The real stars of the podcast. [12:30] - What’s ahead for the podcast? [13:02] - Stepping off the gas a bit. [13:45] - Virtual dial—targeted tips. [14:32] - The lifeblood of the “Agile Mentors” podcast. [15:06] - Mike Cohn and Brian are both presenting at Agile2023 in Orlando, July 24 through 28th. [15:39] - The most significant benefit of BIG conferences. [16:41] - Thank you for getting us to a year and 50 episodes! Join the Agile Mentors Community to continue the discussion. If you have topics for future episodes, email us by clicking here. And don’t forget to subscribe to the “Agile Mentors” Podcast on Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. References and resources mentioned in the show: Agile2023 | Orlando, Florida | Agile Alliance #1: Scrum vs Agile & Keys to Success with Mike Cohn #3: What Makes a Great Product Owner? With Lance Dacy #9: Scrum Artifacts with Kert Peterson #10: Why User Stories are the Best Way to Capture Requirements with Mike Cohn #17: Getting There From Here: Agile Transformations with David Hawks #18 Coaching in an Agile World with Lyssa Adkins #21: Agile Marketing Teams with Stacey Ackerman #22: How to Create Helpful Product Roadmaps with Roman Pichler #23 How Agile Works in Education with John Miller #25: Scaling with Henrik Kniberg #27: Leading Without Blame with Tricia Broderick #29: Influencing Up with Scott Dunn #32: Scrum in High School Sports with Cort Sharp #33 Mob Programming with Woody Zuill #34: I'm Trained, Now What? with Julie Chickering #37: Servant Leadership, Not Spineless Leadership with Brad Swanson #38: Using Agile for Social and Societal Transformation with Kubair Shirazee #40: Is it Time to Go Out on Your Own? Tips and Insights with Chris Li #41: Cultural Transformation in Organizations with Karim Harbott #42: The Importance of Self-Mastery with Bob Galen #43: Cultivating Agile Team Culture in a Virtual World with Richard Cheng #44: Transformations Take People with Anu Smalley #46: How to Assess Company Culture Before Accepting a Job Offer with Christina Ambers #47: Exploring Lean Thinking in Agile Development with Bob Payne Mountain Good Software's Certified Product Owner course Mountain Goat Software Certified Scrum and Agile Training Schedule Join the Agile Mentors Community Subscribe to the Agile Mentors Podcast on Apple Podcasts Want to get involved? This show is designed for you, and we’d love your input. Enjoyed what you heard today? Please leave a rating and a review. It really helps, and we read every single one. Got an Agile subject you’d like us to discuss or a question that needs an answer? Share your thoughts with us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com This episode’s presenters are: Brian Milner is SVP of coaching and training at Mountain Goat Software. He's passionate about making a difference in people's day-to-day work, influenced by his own experience of transitioning to Scrum and seeing improvements in work/life balance, honesty, respect, and the quality of work.

Join Brian and his guests, Janet Gregory, and Lisa Crispin, as they share their expertise on integrating testing into Agile teams. Discover how to bridge the gap between programmers and testers for collaboration and success. Overview In this episode of the "Agile Mentors," Brian Milner sits down with Janet Gregory and Lisa Crispin, founders of Agile Testing Fellowship, to discuss integrating testing into Agile teams. They discuss the history of the divide between programmers and testers and the importance of collaboration and communication between the two groups. Listen in as they explore the different levels of holistic testing, the mindset shift needed for bug prevention, and the tools and strategies for planning and estimating testing activities. Plus, the role of AI in testing. Listen Now to Discover: [00:05] - Brian Milner introduces the guests for this episode, Janet Gregory and Lisa Crispin, who are advocates for integrating testing into Agile teams and the Founders of Agile Testing Fellowship. [02:25] - Lisa explains the most important goal for collaboration and success. [03:34] - Janet talks about the history of the gulf between programmers and testers. [05:09] - How to bridge the gap between programmers and testers and the value of collaboration. [07:29] - What the values of Agile and Extreme Programming emphasize. [09:49] - The mindset shift needed for bug prevention. [11:17] - Managers behaving badly—Brian shares a story about how measuring the wrong things can drive the wrong behaviors. [12:13] Brian discusses the micro view of testing instead of a system view. [12:17] How to handle intense forms of testing that take a long time to complete. [14:02] Janet explains the different levels of testing and that teams should determine where testing belongs based on when it can be performed earliest. [15:23] Avoiding a "hardening sprint." [16:48] Lisa shares how to use visual models like the agile testing quadrants and the holistic testing model to help plan and communicate the testing activities needed throughout the software development lifecycle. [17:25] The website where you can find the training written by Lisa and Janet, including “More Agile Testing” and “Agile Testing Condensed” (recently released), and where you can download the FREE Mini-book "Holistic Testing: Weave Quality into your Product." [18:29] - Brian introduces the sponsor for the podcast, Mountain Goat Software. If you are thinking about getting certified as a Scrum Master, check out the resources and training options where certification classes are available every week. [19:26] - The key to fitting testing into a normal sprint cycle and integrating testing with other system pieces. [20:52] - Janet shares a tip for ensuring testing is not overlooked. [20:59] - Lisa shares how to remind teams to do testing at the right time. [22:31] - Why have a visible reminder for testing? [23:54] - The importance of accounting for testing and not treating it as a separate thing to do. [24:37] - Lisa shares her experience using planning poker for estimation and her preference to get every story the same size so they can be completed in a day or two. [25:50] - Janet suggests sizing stories and estimating tasks, why she estimates her tasks herself, and what she’s learned in that process. [26:44] -How to reduce the time needed in estimation meetings: Lisa shares some insight to identify when a story is too big and needs to be split up. [27:35] - The importance of conversation and understanding to avoid creating a wall between programmers and testers during estimation. [28:03] - Another tool in the toolbox: how Chat GPT will revolutionize testing (and who it might replace). [29:01] - There will never be enough time to do all the testing required. [29:31] - Lisa highlights how AI as a tool saves time with testing and allows more time for critical thinking skills. [30:12] - The need for a human presence in the use of AI. [31:19] - Janet shares information about her and Lisa's two courses, Basic Strategies for Agile Teams and Holistic Testing for Continuous Delivery, based on the Holistic testing model of looking at testing activities throughout the software development lifecycle. These courses can be found here. [36:37] Lisa mentions that her book, “Assessing Agile Quality Practices” helps teams identify where they are and where they can improve, using a framework that looks at ten different quality aspects. Plus, information on the book they are working on now on how to facilitate an assessment. [39:03] - Brian provides a list of resources available from Lisa and Janet, including their books “Agile Testing Condensed: A Brief Introduction” “Agile Testing,” “More Agile Testing,” and Assessing Agile Quality Practices and their "Holistic Testing: Weave Quality into Your Product” free download. [40:14] - Join the Agile Mentors Community to continue the discussion. If you have topics for future episodes, email us by clicking here. And don’t forget to subscribe to the “Agile Mentors” Podcast on Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. References and resources mentioned in the show: Agile Testing Fellowship Agile Testing - The Book Agile Testing Condensed: A Brief Introduction More Agile Testing Holistic Testing: Weave Quality into Your Product Assessing Agile Quality Practices Mountain Good Software's Advanced Certified Product Owner course Mountain Goat Software Certified Scrum and Agile Training Schedule Join the Agile Mentors Community Subscribe to the Agile Mentors Podcast on Apple Podcasts Want to get involved? This show is designed for you, and we’d love your input. Enjoyed what you heard today? Please leave a rating and a review. It really helps, and we read every single one. Got an Agile subject you’d like us to discuss or a question that needs an answer? Share your thoughts with us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com This episode’s presenters are: Brian Milner is SVP of coaching and training at Mountain Goat Software. He's passionate about making a difference in people's day-to-day work, influenced by his own experience of transitioning to Scrum and seeing improvements in work/life balance, honesty, respect, and the quality of work. Lisa Crispin is the Co-founder of the Agile Testing Fellowship, an author, and an Agile tester and coach, who helps practitioners deliver quality software frequently and sustainably. Janet Gregory is the Co-founder of the Agile Testing Fellowship, an author, and a consultant, specializing in building quality systems and helping companies promote agile quality processes.

Join Brian and his guest Bob Payne as they discuss the principles of lean thinking and how they apply to Agile methodologies. Overview In this episode of the “Agile Mentors” Podcast, Brian sits down with Bob Payne to discuss the intersection of Agile and lean thinking. As an experienced Agile coach and host of the “Agile Toolkit Podcast,” Bob shares his insights and offers practical tips for implementing lean thinking in your own team. Listen in as they explore the fundamental principles of lean thinking in Agile methodologies. They discuss managing flow, not workers, and the importance of continuous improvement and experimentation to achieve sustainable, high-quality results in your organization and success in today's fast-paced business environment. Listen Now to Discover: [01:23] - Brian welcomes Bob Payne, the Senior Vice President of Training and Coaching at Lithespeed, as well as the host of the “Agile Toolkit Podcast” and the Chairman of the Agile DC Conference. Bob is here to discuss lean systems and lean thinking. [03:57] - Bob explains how lean thinking is connected to Agile methods in knowledge work. [07:30] - Agile methods generate value through teamwork that ultimately ends up in the customer's hands, and lean thinking is the larger circle that encompasses these methods. [08:24] - Lean thinking involves discipline and continuous improvement, which are essential characteristics for any successful team. [10:30] - Lean thinking also considers the sustainability of the workforce—workers are seen as producing value, while management is there to create the system that makes them the most effective. [11:31] - Lean thinking provides inspiration for visual management systems (such as Kanban boards) to track work which is incredibly powerful (and were not invented by Agile methods). [11:47] - Lean didn't just appear out of thin air; it built off of multiple things. [12:17] - Lean principles are foundational, and empiricism is built into lean. [14:34] - Bob shares that visualizing work is crucial to managing it effectively and citing the example of Toyota's electronic boards. [15:52] - Managing the flow of work, not the workers. We aim for cross-functional, self-organizing teams in an Agile team to get the job done. [17:05] - Bob shares an analogy about the workflow in a coffee shop. [17:41] - Bob shares the lean thinking philosophy and discusses the use of on-demand planning and continuous improvement. [19:14] - Brian introduces the sponsor for the podcast, Mountain Goat Software, which offers various training options for Agile methodologies. You can find their training schedule here. [19:46] - The difference between fixing the system and fixing the people in terms of leadership— Brian highlights the importance of a holistic view of the organizational structure to support the work and the workers in lean thinking. [20:36] - Brian shares the importance of limiting work in process within Scrum. He shares his experiences with XP teams and emphasizes the need to identify blockages and fix the source, not (just) the symptom. [23:03] - Bob and Brian discuss how Agile methods often miss local optimization, focusing on fixing bottlenecks instead of making other parts of the process more efficient. [25:23] - Bob shares how the focus on DevOps and better tooling has enabled Agile teams to go faster while maintaining safety (and avoiding burnout). [26:30] - Bob shares a talk called "Project to Product: Practical Realities at Large Scale Enterprises,” Kevin Fisher gave at a DevOps conference about an end-to-end value stream analysis. [27:40] - Bob discusses the need for a shift towards prioritizing rapid building and getting products to market, as Jeff Patton and Marty Cagan advocate. [28:37] - Bottlenecks? What the Scrum Master should focus on. [29:27] -Understanding the theory and philosophy behind Agile rather than just focusing on the practices is important. Brian shares why he believes it's crucial to recognize that the system needs to be fixed, not the worker. [30:49] - Understanding the theory and philosophy behind Agile methodologies rather than just focusing on the practices for more successful teams is essential. [31:18] - Bob talks about how teams should experiment with different ways of doing things and shares the early Agilists were making stuff up and pulling together ideas that worked. He spends the first hour and a half of his classes talking about the history and mindset of Agile and lays out these principles with case studies. [35:24] - Check out Bob Payne’s work on his podcast, “Agile Toolkit Podcast,” and at Lithespeed. [36:08] - Join the Agile Mentors Community to continue the discussion. If you have topics for future episodes, email us by clicking here. And don’t forget to subscribe to the “Agile Mentors” Podcast on Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. References and resources mentioned in the show: Lithespeed "Agile Toolkit Podcast” Agile DC Conference Project to Product: Practical Realities at Large Scale Enterprises Mountain Goat Software's Advanced Certified Product Owner course Mountain Goat Software Certified Scrum and Agile Training Schedule Join the Agile Mentors Community Subscribe to the Agile Mentors Podcast on Apple Podcasts Want to get involved? This show is designed for you, and we’d love your input. Enjoyed what you heard today? Please leave a rating and a review. It really helps, and we read every single one. Got an Agile subject you’d like us to discuss or a question that needs an answer? Share your thoughts with us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com This episode’s presenters are: Brian Milner is SVP of coaching and training at Mountain Goat Software. He's passionate about making a difference in people's day-to-day work, influenced by his own experience of transitioning to Scrum and seeing improvements in work/life balance, honesty, respect, and the quality of work. Bob Payne is an industry-leading Lean+Agile Transformation leader with over 20 years of experience. He is the SVP of Enterprise Transformation at Lithespeed, the host of the “Agile Toolkit Podcast," and the Chair of the Agile DC Conference. With a wealth of practical experience, Bob has been a trusted advisor to executives, teams, and management at leading firms such as Walmart, National Geographic, and Samsung.

Join Brian and guest Christina Ambers on this episode of the "Agile Mentors" podcast as they discuss the importance of asking the right questions during a job interview to determine if a company (and its culture) is a good fit for you. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors podcast, Brian sits down with Christina Ambers to discuss the most important questions to ask during a job interview for an Agile role and the yellow and red flags to look out for. Listen in as Christina shares her insights on which questions to ask in order to probe deeper and better understand the company's values and culture to assess whether the role is a good fit for you as a candidate. Whether you're a job seeker or a hiring manager, this episode offers valuable insights into ensuring a good match between the company and the candidate. Listen Now to Discover: [01:13] - Brian welcomes Christina Ambers to the Agile Mentors podcast. Christina is an Agile Enthusiast, Enterprise Coach, Speaker, and owner of SMART ACE Formula. She’s also an active member of the Agile Mentors Community. Today we're discussing the topic of interview questions and why it's essential to ask questions during an interview. [02:31] - Christina explains how asking questions during an interview allows the candidate to interview the company to see if it's a good fit for you. [02:48] - Brian shares that having questions prepared shows a level of preparedness and readiness for the interview to determine if the company is the right fit for you, especially in today's job market with increased layoffs. [03:54] - How asking the right questions can save you from frustration and a dead-end career [05:01] - Christina shares a good starting point for asking questions that will help you determine what it's like to work at a company and help you get a sense of their culture. [05:35] - Brian shares a tip on weeding out vague answers about culture and offers a warning of what to look for as an indicator that the culture isn't great. [07:04] - Christina adds that if the interviewer relates culture to food or other benefits, it’s another warning sign that culture might not be taken seriously in the organization. [07:58] - Christina suggests that these red flags could also be opportunities to improve the company culture if it's an area you excel in, offering a chance to make a positive impact and provide you with some job security. [8:37] - Brian suggests asking a question that puts the interviewer at ease and helps them focus on the company's culture and offers an example [09:09] - Christina shares her favorite question to ask in an interview, sharing that this question helps her understand what the interviewer expects out of your role. [09:44] - Christina shares that if an organization's culture isn't conducive to improvement, that could be a red flag. [10:36] - More than just a warm body—why it's essential to clarify what is expected of your role BEFORE you take the job. [11:09] - How to avoid being the “new Dave.” [11:46] - Christina shares how asking questions about the outcomes and responsibilities of the role can help a candidate identify any hidden or unexpected aspects of the position that were not included in the job description. [12:30] - Asking the right questions to avoid misunderstandings (and wasted time and effort)— Brian shares his experience of being misled during the interview process by a company that claimed to be interested in agile methodology. [13:50] - How flipping the question can help clarify what outcomes they expect from the role, especially when talking to the team, to understand how to be successful in the position. [14:28] - Christina talks about clarifying whether the role is a replacement or a new role and how the company values the role. [15:04] - Christina shares her concern about the company's expectations being too high, especially for a new role. She suggests asking whether the company is ready for the change and how much they value the new position. [15:41] - Brian adds that asking how the team's performance is measured is essential. He recommends understanding what the company is trying to accomplish with the team. [16:49] - Christina shares some yellow flags that provide room to grow and an opportunity for coaching. [18:08] - Brian recommends asking how the company invests in employee growth to determine how they value individuals versus teams. [18:40] - Brian shares the sponsor for today’s episode, Mountain Goat Software's Certified Scrum Product Owner Training which teaches how to use the product backlog as a tool for project success. [19:17] - Christina talks about inquiring about how the company connects developers to actual customers. [20:36] - A passion for continuing education: Christina recommends asking about how the company values additional learning experiences and how they reward individuals versus teams for continuing education. [23:56] - Avoiding potential red flags. [24:46] - Christina suggests asking about the company's changes since COVID-19 to find out how they respond to significant disruption and delving into employee longevity. [25:58] - Brian emphasizes the importance of asking questions during the interview process to determine how Agile a company is right now and how they actually care for their employees vs. just what they can deliver. [27:44] - The value of talking to other employees in the company. [28:32] - How to determine how a company views work/life balance (and their flexibility for work from home). [29:35] - Probing a company's attitude towards offshore or outsourced employees in relation to their in-office employees before starting to work for them. [30:18] - Success isn't measured by simply sitting at a desk and typing—watching out for red flags indicating the company hasn't figured out what success means to its customers. [31:05] - Determining the Agile framework of your future team. [32:15] - What does Scrum mean to you—there might be more than one answer—how to find out and what follow-up questions to ask. [32:50] - Connect with Christina in the Agile Mentors Community or check out SMART ACE Formula. [33:39] - Join the Agile Mentors Community community to continue the discussion. If you have topics for future episodes, email us by clicking here. And don’t forget to Subscribe to the Agile Mentors Podcast on Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. References and resources mentioned in the show: SMART ACE Formula Mountain Good Software's Certified Product Owner course Mountain Goat Software Certified Scrum and Agile Training Schedule Join the Agile Mentors Community Scrum Alliance Subscribe to the Agile Mentors Podcast on Apple Podcasts Want to get involved? This show is designed for you, and we’d love your input. Enjoyed what you heard today? Please leave a rating and a review. It really helps, and we read every single one. Got an Agile subject you’d like us to discuss or a question that needs an answer? Share your thoughts with us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com This episode’s presenters are: Brian Milner is SVP of coaching and training at Mountain Goat Software. He's passionate about making a difference in people's day-to-day work, influenced by his own experience of transitioning to Scrum and seeing improvements in work/life balance, honesty, respect, and the quality of work. Christina Ambers is a certified Scrum Master, Agile, and Kanban Coach with over 16 years of experience in software development and transformations. She is passionate about unlocking agile potential, inspiring teams to succeed, and applies agility and lean concepts in her everyday life. Christina is a founding member of the SMART ACE Formula and has worked with companies of all sizes and industries to help teams collaborate and work more effectively.

Join Brian and guest Scott Dunn as they share practical tips on navigating the challenges and achieving success in implementing Agile practices in regulatory environments on this episode of the "Agile Mentors" podcast. Overview: In this episode of the Agile Mentors podcast, Brian and Scott Dunn delve into the challenges of implementing Agile practices in regulatory environments. They discuss the importance of finding ways to work within regulatory frameworks, building trust with stakeholders, and adapting Agile principles to fit the unique needs of the organization. Listen in to discover practical strategies for navigating regulatory hurdles, effective communication with regulators and customers, and building a culture of continuous improvement in highly regulated industries. Listen Now to Discover: [01:30] - Brian welcomes Scott Dunn to the Agile Mentors podcast. Scott is a Certified Enterprise Coach and Scrum Trainer with over 20 years of experience. Today's show is focused on the listener-inspired topic of implementing Agile in regulatory environments. (If you want to hear something specific, you can email us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com). [02:31] - Change is hard. Sometimes you must dig deeper into the reasons for resistance, as it may not always be related to regulatory requirements. [03:09] - Scott shares his experience working in a compliance-heavy environment, noting that the people responsible for compliance may not always fully understand the regulations. [04:16] - Scott emphasizes the importance of researching the regulations independently. In his experience, mindset and willingness are key factors in successfully implementing Agile in regulatory environments. [06:05] - Brian shares an anecdote about a pushback he received in a private class about whether Agile principles would work in the real world. [07:59] - Scott shares a recent experience on a call with a Prime contractor for the government, where they discussed the government's modernization efforts and their shift towards agile methodologies. He also mentions the GSA's internal agile group, which requires funding recipients to adopt agile practices. [09:19] - The issue of government contracts requiring specific roles rather than generalists and how this can limit the implementation of agile practices. [10:20] - Scott discusses how contracts in government organizations can limit the ability to fully implement Agile principles and how to create change within their organizations. [11:33] - Brian discusses the idea that a transformation is an ongoing process and not something that can be checked off as completed. He talks about the importance of continual learning. [12:01] - Brian introduces the podcast sponsor, Mountain Good Software's Advanced Certified Product Owner course. He explains how the course can help product owners increase their confidence, credibility, and value. [12:39] - The importance of collaboration over contract negotiation: Brian shares a story about Michael Sahota, who worked with the Canadian government on a bidding contract and revolutionized the government's fixed bid system. [15:07] - Brian explains that while regulatory environments require more documentation, examining whether certain documentation is necessary is essential. [15:54] - The need for empathy and understanding when working with regulatory environments. [16:26] - Small nudges = Significant change. [19:45] - The challenge of testing in regulatory environments, particularly regarding validation. Brian shares a story about a client with FAA regulations and how they tackled the issue, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. [23:20] - Scott suggests a pragmatic approach to achieving work goals, acknowledging the external constraints that may prevent perfection. [24:09] - Scott further explains that in some cases, there may be a sliding scale of achieving different levels of agility. Even small incremental steps towards agile implementation can provide benefits. [25:37] - Brian shares what he considers the #1 win in implementing Agile into these types of environments. [26:57] - What's possible? If you fast forward a year from now, what could be done now that gets us to the next step? [28:10] - Think about how you are showing up: the importance of facilitating idea-generating conversations and the type of leadership it takes to start those conversations and helps make the right thing happen. [29:30] - Scott and Brian discuss the quote, "if you're the smartest person in the room, you're in the wrong room," and how important it is to be around people who can push you and help you grow. [30:52] - Join the Agile Mentors Community community to continue the discussion. If you have topics for future episodes, email us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com. References and resources mentioned in the show: Mountain Goat Software's Advanced Certified Product Owner course Mountain Goat Software Certified Scrum and Agile Training Schedule Join the Agile Mentors Community Agile Manifesto​​ Scrum Alliance Subscribe to the Agile Mentors Podcast on Apple Podcasts Want to get involved? This show is designed for you, and we’d love your input. ● Enjoyed what you heard today? Please leave a rating and a review. It really helps, and we read every single one. ● Got an Agile subject you’d like us to discuss or a question that needs an answer? Share your thoughts with us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com This episode’s presenters are: Brian Milner is SVP of coaching and training at Mountain Goat Software. He’s passionate about making a difference in people’s day-to-day work, influenced by his own experience of transitioning to Scrum and seeing improvements in work/life balance, honesty, respect, and the quality of work. Scott Dunn is a Certified Enterprise Coach and Scrum Trainer with over 20 years of experience coaching and training companies like NASA, EMC/Dell Technologies, Yahoo!, Technicolor, and eBay to transition to an agile approach using Scrum.

In this episode of the “Agile Mentors” podcast, Brian and Anu Smalley share their perspectives on the relationship between culture and Agile transformation and why people are key. Overview Coaching an Agile transformation requires more than just knowing how to run a daily Scrum. Finding the right people for the job is critical to success. In this episode of the "Agile Mentors" podcast, Brian and Anu Smalley chat about the importance of diversity in Agile teams. Listen in as Brian and Anu explore how culture impacts an organization's ability to adopt Agile practices, the role of leaders in creating an inclusive culture, and the power of sharing stories in building a strong community. Listen Now to Discover: [01:17] - Brian introduces us to the guest, Anu Smalley, who has a lot of experience in Agile coaching and consulting. She’s also been instrumental in increasing diversity in the Agile community. She has a CST mentoring group for people who don't have the same background as the majority of people in the Scrum Alliance. Her company is Capala Consulting Group. [03:34] - Metrics and methodologies are important in organizational transformation, but people are at the heart of it. Organizations cannot successfully transform without the right people. [04:02] - Anu talks about how the Agile Manifesto emphasizes individuals and interactions as the key to success in transformation. She emphasizes the importance of having the right people in an organization to ensure a successful transformation. [05:07] - Coaching an Agile transformation requires more than just knowing how to run a daily Scrum. Finding the right people for the job is critical to success. [05:55] - Brian notes that some businesses see their employees as replaceable parts in a machine. A diversity of perspectives is essential; having only one perspective limits the team's potential. [06:52] - Each person is unique and cannot be replaced like a part in a machine. Anu stresses the importance of recognizing the human aspect of transformation to succeed and that metrics alone will not suffice. [07:48] - Brian discusses the comparison between Agile software development and research and development. Having the right people for the job is critical. [08:30] - Agile transformation requires a focus on people and coaching, and the framework will fall into place once that focus is in place. [09:14] - Anu highlights the importance of understanding what being Agile truly means rather than just knowing the techniques. [09:59] - Brian notes that while many attendees may attend Agile training classes solely for certification, trainers can use this opportunity to teach attendees a deeper understanding of Agile and transform their approach to work. [10:46] - Anu notes that there is a significant difference between implementing Scrum and transforming an organization—one can be learned in a two-day class, while the other requires a deeper understanding of what being Agile truly means. [12:02] - Focusing on people is the key to success in Agile transformation; without it, organizations will not get very far. [14:17] - Brian emphasizes the uniqueness of organizations and how Scrum is designed to be adjusted and custom fit for each group that uses it. [14:49] - Anu highlights the importance of role clarity for individuals and teams to minimize conflicts. [15:53] - The virtual world has made role clarity even more important. Anu shares an example of a client whose main focus for 2023 is to achieve role clarity amongst their teams, explaining what is essential to achieving this goal. [16:19] - Clarity is achieved by bringing people together, resolving conflicts, and working towards common goals. [16:19] - Anu emphasizes that coaching and resolving conflicts are key to achieving role clarity and smooth functioning among teams in an organization. [16:37] - Brian compares learning the basics of baseball to attending a class on Scrum—a class can teach you the basics—a coach is necessary to grow and improve. [17:50] - Anu shares that a coach is essential, even for the best sports people on the planet. [16:19] - Anu emphasizes the importance of role clarity and resolving conflicts in an organization to ensure everyone understands their role and works together effectively. [18:39] - Anu explains that the best players in any sport have personal coaches to keep them in the "being mode," focusing on the individual's growth to impact the company's growth. [19:33] - Brian highlights that even the best athletes in the world have coaches, and we should always keep growing and never stand still. [19:51] - Agile transformations are about the people we have—Anu reiterates the importance of focusing on individuals' growth to impact the company's growth. [20:12] - Leaders need to ensure they have the right people and are continuously teaching, coaching, and helping them move forward. [20:35] - Brian introduces the sponsor of the podcast, Mountain Goat Software's Certified ScrumMaster Class, and highlights its benefits for those interested in understanding Scrum. [23:34] - Anu shares examples of clients who have decided to combine roles or accountabilities due to budget cuts and how it impacts the Agile journey. [24:40] - Anu advises against continuing the Agile journey until it can be done properly. [25:43] - Leaders often make the mistake of not understanding the importance of ScrumMasters, but ScrumMasters do, in fact, provide value (a little sarcasm here). [26:00] - Without capable ScrumMasters, the transformation will stall or fail. [26:39] - Brian notes that even with capable ScrumMasters, leaders must trust and empower them to drive the transformation forward. [27:02] - Culture is all about people; if you don't have a culture supporting Agile transformation, it won't go anywhere. [27:55] - Talking about trust issues between leadership and teams. [28:55] - Anu explains that some leaders may have talented staff, but they are too scared to trust them with an Agile transformation because they are worried about the culture and power structure changes. [29:35] - Brian suggests an innovation initiative, to which Anu sarcastically proposes an innovation sprint as a solution. [29:47] - Brian encourages listeners to contact Anu through LinkedIn or through the website of her company, Capala Consulting Group. [30:52] - Anu invites listeners to share their Agile transformation stories with her and promotes the importance of building a community through shared experiences. [32:58] - The value of learning from different cultural perspectives. [33:17] - Brian invites you to share your ideas for the show or feedback. Email Brian. References and resources mentioned in the show: Capala Consulting Group Mountain Goat Software's Certified ScrumMaster Class Mountain Goat Software Certified Scrum and Agile Training Schedule Join the Agile Mentors Community Agile Manifesto​​ Scrum Alliance Subscribe to the Agile Mentors Podcast on Apple Podcasts Want to get involved? This show is designed for you, and we’d love your input. Enjoyed what you heard today? Please leave a rating and a review. It really helps, and we read every single one. Got an Agile subject you’d like us to discuss or a question that needs an answer? Share your thoughts with us at podcast@mountaingoatsoftware.com This episode’s presenters are: Brian Milner is SVP of coaching and training at Mountain Goat Software. He’s passionate about making a difference in people’s day-to-day work, influenced by his own experience of transitioning to Scrum and seeing improvements in work/life balance, honesty, respect, and the quality of work. Anu Smalley is the President and Founder of Capala Consulting Group, where she specializes in Executive Coaching and Agile Transformations. She is a Certified Enterprise Coach and Certified Scrum Trainer®. She’s an active member of the larger Scrum and Agile community and enjoys giving back via volunteering at various conferences.