This Is NOT What I Signed Up For

Ross Saunders
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MANAGEMENT
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

A survival-guide podcast for the new or first-time manager, having been promoted from technical specialist to leading people. Teaching you how to swim, so you don't sink!

  1. Trust and Influence from Your Voice

    6D AGO

    Trust and Influence from Your Voice

    In this episode, Ross Saunders interviews David Goldberg, CEO of Edge Studio, discussing the critical role of voice in establishing trust and influence in the workplace. David emphasizes that many individuals lack training in effective communication, which can hinder their professional growth. He shares insights on how voice affects performance, the importance of understanding one's speaking habits, and practical tips for improving public speaking skills. The conversation highlights the need for tailored techniques to enhance communication and build trust with audiences. Takeaways: Voice is the most direct connection we have to our listener.Many people are not taught how to use their voices effectively.Understanding your speaking habits can lead to better communication.Voice can significantly impact performance in the workplace.There is no one right way to communicate; it depends on the audience and situation.Tailored techniques are essential for effective speaking.Attention to detail in speaking can enhance trust and credibility.The audience is often unaware of what you planned to say.Practicing public speaking can help reduce anxiety.Building trust is crucial for leadership and influence.About David: David Goldberg helps people build trust with strategic words, speaking patterns, and presence. His one-of-a-kind techniques are used by over 10,000 CEOs, politicians, entrepreneurs, podcasters, and job seekers—whether on stage, on camera, on mic, online, & in person. He's also CEO of EdgeStudio.com, an international voiceover recording & training company based in Times Square, New York City, that’s recorded over 13,000 projects for brands including AT&T, Google, & Microsoft. https://edgestudio.com/about-david-goldberg About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    29 min

  2. JAN 28

    Remote Working like a Boss

    In this episode, Ross Saunders interviews Dan Snow about the intricacies of remote work, exploring personal insights, the evolution of remote work pre and post-COVID, effective management strategies for remote teams, and the importance of building relationships in a virtual environment. They discuss the challenges of hiring and firing remotely, managing client expectations, and the essential tools that facilitate remote work. The conversation emphasizes the need for structured communication, peer support, and the balance between personal and professional life in a remote setting. Takeaways: Remote work can lead to unexpected creative solutions.Taking breaks can enhance productivity and idea generation.Structured communication is key for remote team management.Peer support fosters relationships and trust among team members.Difficult conversations can be easier in a virtual setting.Hiring remotely lacks the nuanced understanding of candidates.Tools like Calendly streamline client communication across time zones.Google Drive provides essential access to files from anywhere.Building personal connections is crucial in remote work environments.Flexibility in work location can enhance job satisfaction.About Dan: Dan created motion sensitive mini-boards for Five Alive, engineered a 20-foot foosball table for FIFA Street Activation, and grew Hyundai Auto Canada's page from zero to 54,000 in less than a month. He has internally restructured a $3M advertising agency, and built process, strategic frameworks, and teams from scratch. Now he works with sales team-led B2B companies to help them grow, tell their story, all while looking smart and beautiful. He has a full-service agency comprised of consultants, small businesses, and subject matter experts to help clients shine. https://www.snowcollective.ca https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielsnow/ About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    31 min
  3. Lessons from a Business Coach

    JAN 14

    Lessons from a Business Coach

    In this episode, Ross interviews Brent Spilkin, a seasoned business coach with a rich background in various industries. They discuss Brent's journey from running a food manufacturing business to becoming a successful coach, emphasizing the importance of communication, managing upwards, and balancing feedback in management. Brent shares valuable insights on how new managers can navigate their roles effectively, manage relationships, and foster a positive work environment while addressing challenges. Takeaways: Good managers adapt their communication style based on their audience.Understanding the motivations of team members is crucial for effective management.New managers should frame their communication to align with business goals.Balancing positive and negative feedback is essential for team morale.Managing upwards involves understanding what your boss needs to succeed.Providing solutions rather than just problems is key for new managers.Recognizing successes is as important as addressing challenges.The 'Cobra and Puppies' principle highlights the need for balanced communication.Creating a culture of problem-solving empowers team members.About Brent: Brent Spilkin, affectionately called “Spillly with 3 Ls” has spent the last 25-odd years discovering what makes him happy besides architecture, driving ambulances, pickling mango achaar, distribution and redeveloping the inner city. He now gets his kicks from growing talented creative individuals and entrepreneurs in their businesses around the world by putting them through his business coaching methodology. https://spillly.com About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    31 min
  4. Recognition is a Superpower

    2025-10-22

    Recognition is a Superpower

    In this episode, Ross speaks with recognition expert Sarah McVanel about the critical role of recognition in leadership and team dynamics. They explore how effective recognition can enhance employee engagement, foster a positive work culture, and ultimately improve retention rates. Sarah shares insights on different types of recognition, the importance of understanding individual preferences, and practical tips for implementing recognition programs in teams. The conversation emphasizes that recognition is not merely about performance metrics but about valuing individuals and creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Takeaways Recognition is a superpower for leaders.Connection within teams is essential for effective leadership.Recognition should be sincere and specific.Different individuals prefer different types of recognition.You don't need a budget to implement recognition strategies.Creating a recognition-rich culture can improve employee retention.Recognition should focus on effort, not just outcomes.Leaders should ask their teams how they prefer to be recognized.Surprise recognition can be more impactful than expected recognition.Recognition is a signal of what matters in an organization's culture.About Sarah Sarah is a recognition expert, professional speaker, coach, author, recovering perfectionist, and movement maker. She created F.R.O.G. Forever Recognize Others’ Greatness to invigorate companies so they can see their people as exceptional and, together, create a scrumptious, thriving culture where everyone belongs. Sarah has 25+ years of experience training, coaching, and leading teams. From her senior leadership role, she founded her boutique firm Greatness Magnified. Proclaimed as the “Frog Lady,” she can be found freaking out perfect strangers (in a good way) by handing out squishy frogs and asking them, “Have you been frogged lately?” and then acknowledging their greatness. She’s a Certified Senior Organizational Development Professional (CSODP), Professional Certified Coach (PCC), and Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL). She is one of 1500 Certified Speaking Professionals (CSP) worldwide. She has a BA in Psychology, MSc in Family Relations, and Diplomas in Human Resources and Healthcare Administration. https://www.greatnessmagnified.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahmcvanel/ About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    37 min
  5. Mastering Presentation Skills

    2025-10-01

    Mastering Presentation Skills

    In this episode, Ross interviews Chris Graham, a communication expert, about the essential presentation skills that new managers need to develop. They discuss the importance of feedback, the transition from technical roles to management, and the significance of connecting with an audience. Chris emphasizes the dangers of 'death by PowerPoint' and the value of humor in presentations. He also shares insights on managing filler words and the importance of being genuine in communication. Takeaways Feedback is crucial for effective management.Presentation skills are essential for new managers.Connecting with your audience is key to effective communication.Death by PowerPoint can shatter audience unity.Humor can enhance presentations if it fits your personality.Filler words are a normal part of conversation.The audience doesn't know your script, so don't panic if you miss a point.Be sincere and honest in your presentations.Your role is to serve the audience, not the other way around.About Chris Chris Graham teaches lawyers and other professionals how to connect with their clients and teams. Since 2016, he’s trained over 15,000 people at North America’s leading law firms, large and small companies, government agencies, and charities. In 2022, Chris was Head of Speaker Coaching at TEDxToronto, Canada’s largest TEDx event. Prior to founding TellPeople, Chris worked at one the world’s top banking law firms (Sullivan & Cromwell LLP) and one of Canada’s top Indigenous rights law firms (Pape & Salter LLP). He studied at Oxford University, University of Toronto Law School, and Acadia University, and is a graduate of the stand-up comedy program at The Second City in Toronto. https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-graham-tellpeople/ About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    30 min
  6. Managing Change

    2025-08-13

    Managing Change

    In this episode, Ross and Michele de Kreek discuss the critical role of change management for new managers. They explore the importance of understanding human behavior in the context of organizational change, the necessity of leadership alignment, and the significance of communication in facilitating change. Michele emphasizes that resistance to change is natural and can be transformed into positive energy. The conversation also highlights when new managers should seek external help for change management and the evolving nature of change in today's fast-paced environment. Takeaways Change management is about moving people from an as-is to a to-be state.Understanding human behavior is crucial in change management.Resistance is natural and indicates energy in the system.Leadership alignment is essential for engaged employees.Transparent communication helps address fears and resistance.Vulnerability in leadership fosters trust and safety.Change management should be seen as a strategic enabler.Change is not just a project; it's an ongoing process.The pace of change is accelerating in today's organizations.About Michele: Michele specializes in holistic transformation programs. As Director of Up Time consulting, the focus is on driving people-first strategies, combining expertise in project change management, strategy, and leadership coaching to deliver impactful organizational outcomes, with a strong commitment to innovation and excellence in change management. https://up-time.co.za About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. https://linktr.ee/rossgsaunders Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    26 min
  7. Personal Branding for Professional Success

    2025-07-30

    Personal Branding for Professional Success

    In this episode, Ross interviews Randall Craig, a seasoned entrepreneur and CEO, about the importance of personal branding for professional success. They discuss the definition of personal branding, the significance of authenticity, and how to build trust in professional relationships. Randall shares insights on navigating the balance between personal and professional brands, emphasizing the need for consistency and authenticity in one's actions. The conversation concludes with strategies for long-term brand building and the importance of being true to oneself in all professional interactions. Takeaways Personal brand is what people say about you behind your back.Your brand is a combination of what people see, how you act, and what you represent.Authenticity is key to a strong personal brand.Trust is built through consistent interactions and relationships.Every touchpoint can either build or diminish trust.Long-term brand building requires consistent performance.Writing and reflecting on experiences can help solidify your brand.About Randall: Randall Craig has founded several successful start-ups, held a long-time position at a “big-four” consulting firm, and was a senior executive at an American public company.  Randall is currently the CEO of the Braintrust Professional Institute, where he helps organizations build, grow, and solve some of their most challenging problems. https://braintrustprofessionalinstitute.com/ https://randallcraig.com/ About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. https://linktr.ee/rossgsaunders Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    29 min
  8. The Power of KPI's and OKR's

    2025-07-16

    The Power of KPI's and OKR's

    In this episode, Ross interviews Gary Meyer, a partner at Attention, discussing the challenges new managers face around KPIs and OKRs. Gary shares insights from his own management journey, emphasizing the importance of aligning KPIs with business objectives and the potential pitfalls of poorly defined metrics. The conversation explores how new managers can implement effective goal-setting strategies, even in environments lacking clear direction, and highlights the significance of collaboration in achieving team objectives. Takeaways Management often lacks formal training, leading to self-taught experiences.KPIs can feel arbitrary and disconnected from actual business goals.A significant portion of employees may disregard KPIs altogether.OKRs provide a framework for aligning team efforts with business objectives.Effective management requires clear communication of goals from the top down.Binary objectives are essential for measuring success accurately.Many companies fail to communicate their objectives effectively to all levels.Tools for managing OKRs and KPIs are readily available and affordable.New managers should actively engage in defining their KPIs with their teams.Documenting processes helps managers protect their interests and clarify objectives.About Gary Having started in the marketing industry 20 years ago, Gary Meyer has a reputation for pushing the envelope through creative and digital strategy. He displays leadership through a unique lens - making an impact based on the unexpected. Never taking the easy route means Gary has been successful during key strategic moments throughout his career, including building a 30+ strong agency from the humble starting grounds of his dining room table. His ability to make objective key decisions for his business and clients alike, led to his recognition at the African Independents Awards 40 under 40 list, and has supported the revenue growth for clients across the globe such as Nespresso, Panasonic , TATA Motors, Virgin Atlantic, and Heineken. During his appointment as Senior Vice President and Head of Digital at Proof Strategies in Toronto Canada, Gary drove the digital marketing strategy for Canadian Red Cross, Webber Naturals, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, and Loblaw (PC Health). https://attentionstrategy.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/garymeyerza/ About your host, Ross: Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries. https://linktr.ee/rossgsaunders Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released. Follow me on LinkedIn Follow me on Instagram

    26 min
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A survival-guide podcast for the new or first-time manager, having been promoted from technical specialist to leading people. Teaching you how to swim, so you don't sink!

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