Surfing Chaos - Storytelling and the AI Ready Project Manager - EP 6

In this engaging conversation, Dave interviews Nic Sementa about his new book, 'Breathing Ego,' which serves as a guided workbook for leaders under pressure. Nic shares his journey from a young salesman to a successful entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of managing egos in leadership. He discusses the balance between servant leadership and command-and-control styles, the impact of AI on leadership dynamics, and the transition from being an entrepreneur to an employer. Nic also reflects on his failures and the lessons learned, advocating for radical self-responsibility in leadership. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of leadership, responsibility, and self-perception. They discuss the importance of taking ownership of one's role as a leader, the challenges of navigating ego, and the necessity of creating safe spaces for teams. The dialogue emphasizes the value of empowering employees through trust and the significance of self-kindness in leadership. The speakers also reflect on the entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the lessons learned from failure and the importance of resilience. Key Takeaways - Ego management is crucial for effective leadership. - A healthy ego is necessary for personal and professional growth. - The book 'Breathing Ego' is designed for leaders managing others. - AI can serve as a double-edged sword in leadership dynamics. - Transitioning from entrepreneur to employer changes risk tolerance. - Failures in management can lead to valuable lessons. - Radical self-responsibility is key for leaders. - The journey of leadership is about playing the game, not just winning. - Legacy involves creating a strong family and business to support each other. - Leadership involves taking responsibility for the team's challenges. - Self-perception can be influenced by the ego and external validation. - Creating safe spaces requires a proactive approach from leaders. - Empowering teams means trusting them to perform without micromanagement. - Failure is a crucial part of the learning process for entrepreneurs. - The journey of entrepreneurship often involves overcoming significant obstacles. - Self-kindness is essential for effective leadership and team dynamics. - Understanding one's limitations can enhance hiring practices. - Conflict resolution skills are vital for maintaining team harmony. - The narrative of self-worth should not be tied to external validation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nic Sementa and His Book 02:19 Nic's Background and Journey 04:42 The Concept of Ego in Leadership 08:04 Managing Egos: Balancing Leadership Styles 12:57 The Role of AI in Leadership 15:43 The Journey from Entrepreneur to Employer 20:50 Learning from Failures in Management 23:58 Radical Self-Responsibility in Leadership 24:55 The Role of Leadership in Responsibility 25:44 Navigating Ego and Self-Perception 28:02 Creating Safe Spaces as a Leader 30:00 Empowering Teams Through Trust 32:04 Embracing Failure as a Learning Tool 34:19 The Journey of an Entrepreneur 36:24 The Importance of Self-Kindness in Leadership Nic’s Book Breathing Ego https://tinyurl.com/2c4mhvmp Contacting Nic LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nic-sementa-2753242b/ Contacting Dave https://linktr.ee/mrsungo Links from the Intro Systems of Imperfection - Discovering Your Superpowers https://www.gsgvan26.com/agenda/session/1821410 Ai Readiness for Project Managers https://beforeaiready.com Recording of Gain Confidence as an AI Ready Project Manager https://maven.com/p/4ac5d0/gain-confidence-as-an-ai-ready-project-manager

In this episode, Stu and Dave discuss the power of storytelling, the impact of AI on project management, time management strategies, upcoming training sessions, and their activities at the Vancouver Scrum Gathering. Global Scrum Gathering Vancouver 2026 - May 3-6 https://www.scrumalliance.org/events/global Dave's Sessions Gain Confidence as an AI Ready Project Manager - April 28 11 AM Eastern https://maven.com/p/4ac5d0/gain-confidence-as-an-ai-ready-project-manager AI Ready Project Manager One Day Accelerator - May 23 https://maven.com/c4g-academy/ai-ready-project-manager Dave's Scrum Certification Classes: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/dave-prior-classes-4758623 Stuart's Sessions Visual Thinking for Effective Collaboration - April 27 https://www.tickettailor.com/events/stuartyoungtrainingltd/2090279 All Stu's upcoming classes https://www.tickettailor.com/events/stuartyoungtrainingltd 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

Braden Cundiff joins Dave to explore some of the emerging ways AI tools can be used to support project management, including RAG and CAG approaches. During the interview they cover what they are, how they are different, and how they can transform organizational processes. The discussion covers practical applications, ethical considerations, and strategies for learning AI effectively. Key Topics Differences between RAG and CAG in AI Practical applications of AI in project management Ethical considerations in AI deployment Strategies for learning and adopting AI technologies Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI in Project Management 00:55 Meet the Expert: Brayden Cundiff and BloomFilter 01:56 BloomFilter's Role in AI and SDLC Integration 03:52 AI as a Scrum Master: Enhancing Agile Processes 05:09 Limitations of ChatGPT for Project Contexts 05:37 Understanding RAG and CAG Approaches 18:27 Differences Between RAG and CAG Explained 23:05 Implementing CAG for Consistent AI Responses 29:01 Security, Bias, and Ethical Considerations in AI 34:06 Learning AI: Resources and Strategies 42:46 Closing Remarks and Next Steps LInks AI Ready for PMs - One Day Accelerator https://www.beforeaiready.com/ BloomFilter AI - https://bloomfilter.ai Contacting Braden Braden’s Book - Flip: Projects to Products: A Problem Playbook https://tinyurl.com/599y6fpf LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/braden-cundiff-52479121/

This episode explores the integration of AI into enterprise, project management in the AI era, and future skills needed to thrive alongside AI. Guests share insights on AI readiness, skill development, and upcoming training opportunities. Takeaways AI readiness programs provide valuable insights into enterprise AI adoption Project managers need to adapt to AI-driven workflows or risk obsolescence Developing visual thinking skills enhances communication and collaboration in AI contexts Chapters 00:00 Skills in the Age of AI 02:16 The Role of Project Management in AI 03:41 Future Trends and Skills Investment 05:04 Systems of Imperfection Podcast Introduction 06:29 Visual Thinking and Communication Links AI Ready Certification by C4G Enterprises - https://maven.com/c4g-academy/ai-ready Systems of Imperfection Podcast - https://systemsofimperfection.riverside.com/ The Responsive Chord by Tony Schwartz https://tinyurl.com/4sb4kcvj Find Stuart  linktr.ee/stuartliveart

Find Dave  linktr.ee/mrsungo To get a discount on upcoming classes just email [email protected] 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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In this premier episode of Systems of Imperfection, Olivia Vick shares insights on emotional intelligence, self-discovery, regulation, and practical tools like personal Kanban to enhance personal and professional growth. Discover how neurodiversity, acceptance, and intentional habits can transform your approach to work and life. Takeaways - Self-awareness accelerates understanding of personal systems. - Acceptance reduces suffering and enhances resilience. - Personal Kanban helps visualize and limit work in progress. - Neurodiversity, like ADHD, can be a superpower with the right strategies. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Its Philosophy 4:47 Understanding Emotional Intelligence and Self-Regulation 7:39 Navigating ADHD: Insights and Coping Mechanisms 10:47The Power of Self-Awareness and Regulation Techniques 13:27 Exploring Personal Kanban as a Tool for Productivity 16:53 Joy in Tasks: Balancing Urgency and Enjoyment 22:40The Importance of Mindset in Time Management 26:01 The Importance of Self-Care and Balance 27:18 Integrating Joy into Daily Routines 29:43 Understanding Energy Regulation and Emotional Awareness 30:48The Role of Self-Awareness in Personal Growth 33:57 Untethering: The Path to Authenticity 40:53 Taking Agency in Life Decisions 45:47 Outro.mp4 Subscribe to Systems of Imperfection https://systemsofimperfection.riverside.com/ Subscribe to Surfing Chaos https://surfingchaosaudionewsletter.riverside.com/ Links to Resources - Daniel Goleman - Emotional Intelligence - https://www.amazon.com/Emotional-Intelligence-Why-It-Matters/dp/055338371X - Jim Benson - Personal Kanban - https://www.amazon.com/Personal-Kanban-Visualize-Work-Manage/dp/1938289694 - Insight Timer App - https://insighttimer.com/ -The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer - https://www.amazon.com/Untethered-Soul-Journey-Breakfree-Yourself/dp/1572245379 Contacting Olivia - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliviavick/ - Twitter - https://twitter.com/OliviaVick Contacting Stuart  - linktr.ee/stuartliveart

 Contacting Dave  - linktr.ee/mrsungo THE BOOK No One Is Coming to Save You: The Power-Ups you need to surf the chaos
 - Amazon: tinyurl.com/yv7chp54
 - Leanpub: leanpub.com/surfthechaos

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 ******************************************************
The soundbed at the start and end of the podcast was built using samples from freesound.org/
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Sounded created using the following samples:
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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