Sway 2.0 with Marina Alex - How Agile Coaches Can Thrive in a Changing Market

In this insightful interview, Marina Alex shares her journey from a successful sales executive to an agile coach, discussing the challenges faced during the pandemic, the importance of adapting to market changes, and strategies for agile professionals to find new opportunities in a shifting landscape. She emphasizes the need for the agile community to broaden its reach beyond IT, focus on measurable results, and leverage local relationships to build a sustainable coaching and consulting business. Key Topics - Market shifts and the decline of traditional agile coaching - Strategies for finding clients outside of IT and enterprise - The importance of measurable results and ROI in agile consulting - Building relationships with local businesses and community engagement - The role of AI in transforming small and medium businesses Chapters 01:52 Introduction to Agile Coaching and Personal Journey 06:59 The Shift in the Agile Market 11:49 Reframing the Agile Value Proposition 19:44 Building Self-Organizing Teams in Non-IT Businesses 26:54 Implementing Agile Practices in Diverse Environments 28:49 Implementing Change in Traditional Environments 30:02 Setting Measurable Business Goals 31:51 The Role of a Coach in Business Transformation 34:19 Starting as a Local Coach 34:37 Optimizing Your LinkedIn Presence 37:26 The Importance of Practical AI Knowledge 40:33 Simplifying AI for Local Businesses 45:35 Finding Clients in Your Community LINKS Sway 2.0 AI Modern Consulting Blueprint Class begins April 6, 2026 Sign up here: https://www.swaysystem.com/sway-2026-Programs The promo code DAVE takes $250 off! Contacting Marina Marina Alex's Guide to Finding Your First Client in SMB - https://example.com/marina-alex-guide LinkedIn Profile of Marina Alex - https://linkedin.com/in/marinaalex Sway System by Marina Alex - https://example.com/sway-system Contacting Dave Linktree: https://linktr.ee/mrsungo Dave’s upcoming classes: Certified Scrum Master https://tinyurl.com/mu74rwuc Certified Scrum Product Owner https://tinyurl.com/mpw6p622 PMI Project Management Professional (PMP)® Boot Camp and Exam Prep https://tinyurl.com/3znzpt7j PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)® Boot Camp https://tinyurl.com/bdebrrrb

In this insightful interview, Richard Broo shares his expertise on managing troubled projects, the importance of scope and risk management, and how traditional and agile methodologies can be effectively integrated. Learn practical strategies to improve project success and navigate the complexities of modern project management. Key Topics - Troubled project diagnosis and intervention - Scope management and stakeholder alignment - Risk planning and mitigation strategies - Hybrid project methodologies and integration - AI tools and prompts for project managers Chapters 04:03 Introduction to Troubled Projects 06:57 Common Failure Patterns in Project Management 09:51The Importance of Risk Management 12:41 Budgeting Challenges in Project Management 15:27 Assessing Project Management Practices 18:01 Navigating Agile and Waterfall Approaches 20:52 The Struggles of Small to Medium Companies 22:27 Understanding Agile: Misconceptions and Realities 23:47 Project Scoping: The Key to Successful Implementation 25:44 Navigating the AI Landscape in Project Management 29:32 Choosing the Right Tools for Project Management 30:18 The Challenge of Managing Multiple Methodologies 31:38 The Ideal Project Manager: Fictional Inspirations LINKS Contacting Richard Web: https://truenorthpmpconsulting.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardbroo/ Contacting Dave Linktree: https://linktr.ee/mrsungo Dave’s upcoming classes: Certified Scrum Master https://tinyurl.com/mu74rwuc Certified Scrum Product Owner https://tinyurl.com/mpw6p622 PMI Project Management Professional (PMP)® Boot Camp and Exam Prep https://tinyurl.com/3znzpt7j PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)® Boot Camp https://tinyurl.com/bdebrrrb Sway 2.0 AI Modern Consulting Blueprint Class begins April 6, 2026 Sign up here: https://www.swaysystem.com/sway-2026-Programs The promo code DAVE takes $250 off!

Agile or waterfall? Wrong question. In our latest Surf the Chaos episode, we revisit a topic that keeps coming up — organizations aren't choosing between methodologies anymore. They're dissolving the barrier entirely and just grabbing whatever tool works. Multifaceted skills are winning over rigid roles. And in our Throwing Bones segment, we get into something that'll resonate with anyone job hunting right now: the ATS screening system is starting to crack. Resumes are being gamed, fake candidates are appearing in interviews, and the whole process is slowly having a break down — but there's a glimmer of hope with groups working to bring humans back into hiring. Episode 4 is out now. Listen wherever you get your podcasts. #SurfTheChaos #Agile #FutureOfWork #Hiring #Podcast #neuland Neuland https://www.neuland.com/ Find Stuart linktr.ee/stuartliveart
 Find Dave linktr.ee/mrsungo
 No One Is Coming to Save You: The Power-Ups you need to surf the chaos
Amazon: tinyurl.com/yv7chp54
 Leanpub: leanpub.com/surfthechaos ******************************************************
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Dave sits down with Evan Campbell to discuss his new book, Adapt to Win: A Framework to Overcome Strategy Decay Using OKRs and Lean Portfolio Management, published by Wiley. Evan shares why most organizations fail to execute on beautifully crafted strategies — and what to do about it. Key Topics Covered Strategy Decay — Evan introduces the concept of "strategy decay," the entropic force that constantly pulls organizations away from their strategic objectives. Studies show only 51% of senior executives can name their company's top three priorities — and that drops to 22% one level down. The Three Sub-Processes of Strategy — Evan breaks down strategy into: (1) formulation, (2) deployment, and (3) execution tracking. Most organizations do the first reasonably well and muddle through the third — but strategy deployment is where the wheels come off. OKRs as the "Steel Thread" — The power of OKRs isn't just top-down goal-setting. The bottom-up element — where teams define their own objectives in response to company goals — drives alignment, understanding, and genuine accountability. Evan distinguishes OKRs (change the business) from KPIs (run the business) using a great airplane instrument cluster analogy. Lean Portfolio Management — The largest section of the book covers enterprise portfolio management practices that Evan says have never been published before. The core idea: treat investments more like a VC would — fund in tranches, set measurable objectives, and be willing to pivot quickly when a better opportunity emerges. Valuing Strategic Initiatives — ROI, IRR, and NPV alone will never fund innovation. Evan explains why organizations need a richer methodology to fairly prioritize strategic bets — and how the book provides one. Types of Portfolios — Enterprise, product, corporate IT, and innovation portfolios each have distinct characteristics and challenges. IT shops tend to struggle with delivery; product organizations tend to struggle with demand management and value prioritization. AI Investment Discipline — Evan flags that 95% of corporate AI spending is producing zero value (citing MIT research) — the same pattern we saw with the internet and agile. The culprit: a lack of directed innovation and strategic clarity. Links from the Podcast Adapt to Win site: https://adapttowin.co Adapt to Win book on Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/53kae743 Adaptivity: https://www.adaptivitygroup.com Manifesto for Enterprise Agility: https://www.pmi.org/learning/agile/manifesto-for-enterprise-agility Enterprise Agility Network: https://theagilenetwork.com Contacting Evan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evcampbell/ Contacting Dave Linktree: https://linktr.ee/mrsungo

Busy brain? Moving feet? This one's for you. In this episode, Dave and Stu cover the tools, trends, and mindset shifts worth your attention right now. Stu makes the case for a surprisingly powerful low-tech feedback tool (index cards and envelopes — trust the process), then calls out the "waiting trap" that's keeping too many people stuck while the world moves on without them. Dave shares a heads-up on the upcoming Enterprise Agility Manifesto, dropping March 3rd from PMI and the Agile Alliance — and tempers expectations with just the right amount of agile-community realism. Plus: upcoming training classes, a CSPO in Edinburgh, a talk in Finland, and a book your mother-in-law might just love. Short. Sharp. Worth your time. Find Stuart https://linktr.ee/stuartliveart Find Dave https://linktr.ee/mrsungo No One Is Coming to Save You: The Power-Ups you need to surf the chaos Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/yv7chp54 Leanpub: https://leanpub.com/surfthechaos ****************************************************** The soundbed at the start and end of the podcast was built using samples from https://freesound.org/ Waves on Rocks with CP water and surf.wav by sparxx001 -- https://freesound.org/s/684383/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 SFXShuffling Dominos_Ennerdale_Xena_Owsfx.wav by Xena123457 -- https://freesound.org/s/709628/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 RussianMeteorite_SFX.flac by jongrubbs -- https://freesound.org/s/178182/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 Weather station on 5450 kHz in USB RAF Volmet 220113.wav by klankbeeld -- https://freesound.org/s/614719/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Sounded created using the following samples: Floyd Filtertron Riding G.wav by aceinet -- https://freesound.org/s/424240/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

In this eye-opening episode, Dave and Stu explore how organizations lose their edge by mistaking agility for abandoning solid project management. They reveal the perilous consequences of sacrificing skills for surface-level agility and offer practical steps to regain control before chaos takes over. Discover why planning skills are collapsing, how to identify and fix skill gaps, and the critical role human skills play as return-to-office trends revive collaboration. Perfect for project managers and leaders, this episode is your blueprint for thriving amid chaos and complexity. The Plaud Note Pro https://www.plaud.ai/products/plaud-note-pro Find Stuart https://linktr.ee/stuartliveart Find Dave https://linktr.ee/mrsungo No One Is Coming to Save You: The Power-Ups you need to surf the chaos Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/yv7chp54 Leanpub: https://leanpub.com/surfthechaos ****************************************************** The soundbed at the start and end of the podcast was built using samples from https://freesound.org/ Waves on Rocks with CP water and surf.wav by sparxx001 -- https://freesound.org/s/684383/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 SFXShuffling Dominos_Ennerdale_Xena_Owsfx.wav by Xena123457 -- https://freesound.org/s/709628/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 RussianMeteorite_SFX.flac by jongrubbs -- https://freesound.org/s/178182/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 Weather station on 5450 kHz in USB RAF Volmet 220113.wav by klankbeeld -- https://freesound.org/s/614719/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Sounded created using the following samples: Floyd Filtertron Riding G.wav by aceinet -- https://freesound.org/s/424240/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

In this conversation, John Tanner discusses the evolving role of AI in business strategy, emphasizing the need for leaders to understand AI's impact on their organizations. He highlights the challenges of integrating AI, the importance of data management, and the necessity for project managers to adapt their skills in the face of new technologies. Tanner also introduces his course on AI readiness, which aims to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the AI landscape effectively. Takeaways AI is not just a tool; it's reshaping business strategy. The integration of AI requires a clear roadmap. Project managers play a crucial role in AI transformation. Data management is essential for effective AI implementation. AI can augment workflows but cannot replace human insight. Understanding AI's cultural impact is vital for leaders. The hype around AI has shifted to operationalizing its use. AI readiness involves assessing organizational gaps. Training and certification in AI are becoming increasingly important. The future of work will require a blend of technical and strategic skills. Chapters 00:18 Introduction to AI and Business Strategy 03:21 The Evolution of AI in Business 06:13 Challenges of AI Integration 09:17 AI Governance and Leadership 12:26 AI Enablement Roadmap 15:21 Data Management for AI Success 19:14 The Importance of Technical Discipline in Agile 21:31 The Role of AI in Modern Workflows 24:51 AI's Influence on Strategy and Decision Making 28:01 Evolving Skill Sets in the Age of AI 30:54 Project Management in the AI Era 35:05 Preparing for the Future with AI Training AI Ready Certification powered by ICAgile https://www.maven.com/c4g-academy/ai-ready Contacting John LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tannerjs/ C4G Enterprises: https://c4genterprises.com Contacting Dave LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrsungo/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/mrsungo

In this episode of the Reluctant Agilist, Dave Prior and Lonnie Weaver-Johnson delve into the intricacies of giving and receiving feedback. They explore personal experiences, the importance of empathy, and various models for effective feedback. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity, intent, and kindness in feedback delivery, while also addressing the challenges of navigating feedback in professional settings. Lonnie shares her insights from years of experience in performance reviews and coaching, highlighting the significance of understanding individual differences in feedback reception. Takeaways - Feedback is a gift, not a weapon. - Understanding the intent behind feedback is crucial. - Empathy plays a significant role in effective feedback. - Clarity in communication helps avoid misunderstandings. - Different people react to feedback in various ways. - Feedback should serve the recipient's growth. - Self-reflection is important after giving feedback. - Models like SBI (Situation, Behavior, Impact) can guide feedback delivery. - Creating a safe space for feedback encourages openness. - Feedback should be a two-way conversation. Chapters 00:00 Podcast Intro 02:31 The Importance of Giving Feedback 05:31 The Importance of Receiving Feedback 08:35 The Art of Giving Feedback 11:29 Navigating Feedback in Professional Settings 14:30 The Role of Choice in Feedback 17:34 Personal Reflections on Feedback 20:27 Feedback and Personal Growth 25:38 The Importance of Feedback and Follow-Up 34:10 Self-Reflection and Self-Feedback 37:11 Feedback Models and Their Effectiveness 45:11 Intent Behind Feedback and Its Impact Contacting Lonnie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lonnieweaverjohnson/ Web: https://www.lonniewj.com/ Dave’s classes (CSM, CSPO, A-CSPO, PMP, PMI-ACP) https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/dave-prior-classes-4758623 Dave and Stuart’s Book No One Is Coming to Save You: Power-ups to help surf the chaos Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/ydvzx7ux Leanpub: https://leanpub.com/surfthechaos

In this episode of the Reluctant Agilist, host Dave Prior welcomes Mark Kilby and Johanna Rothman to discuss their reflections and plans for the new year. The conversation begins with a candid admission from Dave about feeling lost in setting goals for 2026, prompting Johanna to suggest a shift in focus from preparing for risks to preparing for success. The trio explores the importance of collaboration and the need to let go of what hinders progress, particularly in the context of AI and its implications for project management. They emphasize the necessity of resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing world, advocating for a more positive outlook on success rather than a fear-based approach to risk management. As the discussion unfolds, they delve into the challenges posed by generative AI, the importance of trust in technology, and the need for personal and organizational resilience. The episode culminates in a reflection on the significance of collaboration and the value of learning from one another, highlighting the importance of community in navigating the complexities of modern work environments. Ultimately, the conversation serves as a reminder to focus on personal growth, inclusivity, and the pursuit of meaningful connections in both professional and personal spheres. Takeaways "Preparing for success allows for managing risk." "We need to focus more on the next place." "Trust is the one thing we need even more of." "You can't do all that with AI." "Don't do it alone. Collaborate with others." Chapters 00:00 New Year Reflections and Inspirations 03:27 Preparing for Success vs. Risk Management 06:18 AI in Project Management: Opportunities and Challenges 09:19 Trust and Technology: A Post-Trust World? 12:22 Betrayal of the Social Contract in Technology 15:22 Planning for Success: Onward and Inclusive 18:17 Finding Joy in Work Post-Pandemic 31:35 AI in Interviewing: A New Frontier 34:06 Rethinking Hiring Practices 35:39 Productivity: Beyond the Workplace 36:53 Learning and Adapting to AI 38:31 The Impact of the Pandemic on Work Relationships 41:54 Navigating Uncertainty in Leadership 43:19 Building Resilience in Teams 46:04 Personal Growth and Double Loop Learning 50:38 The Importance of Physical and Mental Health 54:32 Creating a Supportive Work Environment Contact Info Contacting Johanna Rothman Web: https://www.jrothman.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johannarothman Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/vjbd4xmd Contacting Mark Kilby Web: https://www.markkilby.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mkilby Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/3sfud7sh Contacting Dave Prior Web: https://linktr.ee/mrsungo LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mrsungo Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/4672s298

In this conversation, Dave Prior interviews Victor Njoroge about the intersection of AI and product management. Victor shares his background and role at Clarion, emphasizing the importance of optimizing workflows for sales development representatives. They discuss the concept of Sidebar, a platform for brainstorming and sharing ideas among professionals. Victor explains how he built a virtual board of directors using AI to gain diverse perspectives on product management challenges. The conversation highlights the significance of trust in AI tools, the need for continuous learning, and the enduring value of human skills in the age of AI. Takeaways - AI can optimize product management processes. - Building a virtual board of directors enhances decision-making. - Diverse perspectives are crucial for effective product management. - Trust in AI tools is essential for their successful implementation. - Understanding user pain points is key to product management. - AI can help in brainstorming and generating ideas. - Using personas can provide valuable insights in product development. - AI tools can save time and improve efficiency in product management. - Continuous learning about AI tools is necessary for staying competitive. - Human skills remain invaluable despite advancements in AI. Chapters 01:28 Introduction to AI in Product Management 04:15 Victor's Background and Role at Clarion 07:05 The Concept of Sidebar and Networking 09:53 The Genesis of AI in Product Management 12:24 Building a Virtual Board of Directors 15:21 Creating Personas for Product Management 18:10 Using AI to Challenge Bias in Decision Making 21:11 Practical Applications of AI in Product Management 24:49 Exploring Prioritization Techniques 30:39 The Role of AI in Product Management 36:36 Finding and Prioritizing AI Tools 41:47 The Human Element in AI and Product Management Links from the podcast: MITSloan Review Article "How I Built a Personal Board of Directors With GenAI" https://tinyurl.com/m28e8h4k Sidebar: https://www.sidebar.com Contacting Victor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-njoroge/ Contacting Dave LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrsungo/ Dave's classes: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/dave-prior-classes-4758623