Agile and Project Management - DrunkenPM Radio Dave Prior, Agile Trainer, Consultant and Project Manager

Summary
In this conversation, Dave Prior and Colleen Johnson discuss the concept of cumulative flow diagrams (CFDs) and their practical application in Agile methodologies. They explore the significance of CFDs in understanding work in progress, cycle time, and throughput. Colleen provides insights into the interpretation of CFDs and the implications for team performance and workflow management. The conversation delves into Little's Law, airport analogies, and the visualization of CFDs to identify patterns and bottlenecks in the workflow. The conversation covers the use of Cumulative Flow Diagrams (CFDs) as a tool for visualizing work in progress and identifying workflow issues. It also delves into the concept of accelerating product value and the importance of learning quickly in product development. The discussion emphasizes the need for small bets and fast feedback to drive product improvement. Additionally, it highlights the challenges of defining and predicting value in product development.

If you would like to watch the original video interview, you can find it here. https://tinyurl.com/55r86tah

Takeaways
- Understanding the practical application of cumulative flow diagrams (CFDs) in Agile methodologies
- Interpreting CFDs to identify patterns an bottlenecks in the workflow
- The significance of Little's Law and airport analogies in understanding CFDs
- Visualizing CFDs to gain insights into work in progress, cycle time, and throughput
- Implications of CFDs for team performance and workflow management CFDs provide a visual representation of work in progress and can be used to identify workflow issues.
- Accelerating product value involves making small bets, learning quickly, and responding to feedback to drive product improvement.
- Defining and predicting value in product development can be challenging, and the focus should be on shipping fast, learning quickly, and enabling rapid response to feedback.
- The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding customer behavior and the need to pivot quickly based on feedback.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
03:16 Introduction to ProKanban
06:46 Understanding CFDs
09:37 Little's Law and Airport Analogies
04:14:24 Work in Progress and Work Item Age
16:53 Interpreting CFDs and Workflow Insights
27:46 Accelerating Product Value through Small Bets and Fast Feedback
40:48 Challenges of Defining and Predicting Value in Product Development

Contacting Colleen
ProKanban: https://www.prokanban.org
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colleen-johnson
Email: colleen@scatterspoke.com

Additional Links
The Art of War for Collaboration: https://modusinstitute.com/course/art-of-war-collaboration
Agile Alliance LinkedIn: https://www.agilealliance.org

Summary
In this conversation, Si Alhir and Dave discuss the Art of War, its application in transformation work, and the naturalness and unity found within its wisdom. They explore the concept of taking whole, the relationship with the environment, and the role of the Sage Commander. Si shares personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the transformative power of the Art of War. The conversation delves into the concept of enlightened leadership and the application of the principles from 'The Art of War' in organizational transformation. It explores the distinction between an enlightened ruler and a wise general, the importance of psychological safety, and the shift from a vicious ego-based reality control cycle to a virtuous eco-based reality navigation cycle. The conversation concludes with a powerful story of using the ordinary and the extraordinary to transform toxic organizational dynamics.

Takeaways
• The Art of War is a transformative wisdom that emphasizes naturalness and unity in its application.
• The concept of taking whole and the relationship with the environment are key elements of the Art of War's wisdom.
• The role of the Sage Commander involves patience, relaxation, and an understanding of the natural flow of time and energy.
• Leadership power lies in the individual's ability to navigate the world around them, working with the environment as a partner.
• The Art of War offers tools for practice and learning, requiring a mindful and respectful approach to its application. Enlightened leadership requires awareness and mindfulness in navigating the nature of things.
• Psychological safety should focus on building strong individuals to interact in an unsafe world.
• The application of 'The Art of War' principles can lead to successful organizational transformation.
• The distinction between the vicious ego-based reality control cycle and the virtuous eco-based reality navigation cycle is crucial for effective leadership.
• Using the ordinary and the extraordinary can transform toxic organizational dynamics.
Titles
• Tools for Practice and Learning in the Art of War
• Exploring the Transformative Wisdom of the Art of War Transforming Toxic Organizational Dynamics
• Navigating Psychological Safety and Reality in Leadership
Chapters

00:00 Preroll Intro
02:33 Introduction to the Art of War and Transformation Work
13:42 The Concept of Taking Whole and Unity
29:21 Navigating the Environment as a Partner
33:03 Tools for Practice and Learning
34:05 Enlightened Leadership and 'The Art of War' in Organizational Transformation
36:56 Navigating Psychological Safety and Reality in Leadership
43:43 The Shift from Vicious Ego-Based Reality Control to Virtuous Eco-Based Reality Navigation
59:39 Transforming Toxic Organizational Dynamics



The Art of War in the Wild (May 2024)

Panel #1 - Brad Barton, Mark Ferraro, and Si Alhir
https://lnkd.in/emmnxQut

Panel #2 - Cynthia Chambers, Christine Ferraro, and Holly Fiorello
https://lnkd.in/eZNX6mJB

Panel #3 - Chris Herring, Cynthia Chambers, and Mudasir Ahamed
https://lnkd.in/ed3kyMUB

Panel #4 - John Cherian., Chris Herring, and Dave Prior
https://lnkd.in/eXB7Mm5x

Si's Books on Amazon
https://tinyurl.com/6rjvkucw

Contacting Si
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salhir/

Dave's Links
Dave's upcoming classes: tinyurl.com/u2vh9zh8
The Art of War for Collaboration: modusinstitute.com/course/art-of-war-collaboration
Contacting Dave: linktr.ee/mrsungo

Summary
In this conversation, Dave Prior is joined by Jeff Leach and Sandra Cain to discuss the question of whether coaching has killed Agile. They explore the role of coaching in Agile transformations and the challenges that arise when underqualified coaches are thrust into coaching roles. They also discuss the difference between coaching and consulting, the importance of understanding one's place as a coach, and the need for range and adaptability in coaching approaches. The conversation highlights the need for a balanced approach that combines both coaching and consulting based on the specific needs of the organization and individuals involved. The conversation explores the importance of first and last impressions in building relationships and the role of emotions in our interactions. It delves into the distinction between coaching and consulting, emphasizing the need for coaches to be unbiased and focused on drawing out the best in others. The conversation also touches on the challenges of internal coaching and the importance of measuring the success of coaching engagements. It concludes with a discussion on the future of coaching and the need for a balance between task-oriented and relationship-oriented approaches.

Takeaways
• Coaching and consulting are both important in Agile transformations, but coaching should not be led with and should be used when appropriate.
• Underqualified coaches can hinder Agile transformations and fail to deliver the promised value.
• Coaches need to understand their place and have humility, as well as the ability to adapt their approach based on the needs of the organization and individuals.
• There is a need for range and adaptability in coaching approaches, as different situations may require different approaches.
• A balanced approach that combines coaching and consulting based on the specific needs of the organization and individuals is crucial for successful Agile transformations. First and last impressions are crucial in building relationships.
• Coaches should be unbiased and focused on drawing out the best in others.
• Internal coaching can be more complex and requires careful design around confidentiality and safety.
• Measuring the success of coaching engagements should focus on moving towards the desired culture and operational rhythm.
• The future of coaching requires a balance between task-oriented and relationship-oriented approaches.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
04:07 The Question: Did Coaching Kill Agile?
05:59 The Challenges of Underqualified Coaches
08:45 Defining Coaching and Consulting
15:32 The Importance of Range and Adaptability in Coaching
28:05 The Power of First and Last Impressions
31:48 The Challenges of Internal Coaching
37:44 Measuring the Success of Coaching Engagements
47:35 The Future of Coaching: Balancing Task and Relationship

Contacting Sandra
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandracain/
Email: coachcain@gmail.com

Contacting Jeff
Web: https://www.adaptivitygroup.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefferyleach/
Email: jeff.leach@adaptivitygroup.com

Dave's Links From The Intro
Certified Scrum Product Owner July 1-2, 2024 (Use PRIOR50 to get $50 off the list price) https://tinyurl.com/2r8af3uk
Dave's upcoming classes: https://tinyurl.com/u2vh9zh8
The Art of War for Collaboration: https://modusinstitute.com/course/art-of-war-collaboration
Contacting Dave: https://linktr.ee/mrsungo

Summary
The conversation explores the concept of being a hero or a villain in a team and how awareness of one's role can lead to more intentional actions. The guests, Jesse and Carl, share their perspectives on this topic. Jesse discusses his experience running an agency and how he developed a marketing approach for supervillains. Carl talks about his role at the Bureau and the challenges of being a leader. They also discuss the importance of empathy and self-reflection in avoiding villainous behavior. The conversation highlights the need for leaders to be aware of their actions and the impact they have on others. They also explore the challenges of leadership and self-awareness, particularly in relation to the younger generation. It delves into the importance of difficult conversations, honest feedback, and effective reward systems. The fear and pressure of being in a position of power are discussed, along with the potential for toxic leadership. Strategies for improving self-awareness include having a coach, seeking unfiltered feedback, and using AI tools. The concept of decommoditization is introduced as a way to differentiate oneself in a competitive market. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the supportive and inspiring nature of the Bureau community.

Takeaways
• Being a hero or a villain is subjective and depends on the perspective of others.
• Leaders should be aware of their actions and the impact they have on their team.
• Empathy and self-reflection are important in avoiding villainous behavior.
• True communication and understanding can help build stronger relationships within a team. Difficult conversations and honest feedback are crucial for effective leadership.
• Fear and pressure can lead to toxic leadership, and it's important to find healthy ways to manage negative energy.
• Having a coach and seeking unfiltered feedback can help improve self-awareness.
• Decommoditization is a strategy to differentiate oneself in a competitive market.
• The Bureau community is a supportive and inspiring network for professionals.

Chapters

03:23 This dude is like Batman...I'm somebody's Joker
07:50 When you think you're a hero, but maybe you're a villain
10:40 The 3 brains in side every organization
11:05 Being conscious of an advanced perspective
13:53 Knowing when you've slipped into villain mode
20:36 Ways to increase your level of self-awareness
26:35 Decommoditization: Differentiating Yourself in a Competitive Market
31:24 The Supportive and Inspiring Nature of the Bureau Community


Jesse's book
Web: https://marketingforsupervillains.com
Amazon: Marketing for Supervillains https://tinyurl.com/59tkjs39

Contacting Jesse
Web: https://decommoditized.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-wroblewski/

Contacting Carl
Web: https://bureauofdigital.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-w-smith/

Summary

In this conversation, Dave Prior interviews Chris Hadnagy and Dr. Abbie Maroño about social engineering and human hacking. They discuss the definition of social engineering and how it differs from human hacking. They emphasize the importance of intent in social engineering, with the goal being to influence someone's actions for their benefit rather than to cause harm. They also explore the concept of imposter syndrome and how it affects different generations and genders. The conversation concludes with a discussion on how self-awareness can be used to be a better servant leader and understand others. In this conversation, Dr. Abbie and Chris Hadnagy discuss the importance of understanding human behavior and communication in various contexts. They emphasize the need to look beneath the surface when someone behaves badly and to consider their underlying needs. They also discuss the importance of self-awareness and understanding one's own communication style. They highlight the value of seeking credible information and avoiding misinformation, especially in the field of psychology. They provide insights into their courses and books that can help individuals improve their communication skills and become more effective in their personal and professional lives.

This podcast was originally recorded in video format. You can find the video here: https://youtu.be/71cZz-ac-zc

Takeaways

Social engineering is the act of influencing someone to take an action that may or may not be in their best interest.
Intent plays a crucial role in determining whether social engineering is positive or negative.
Imposter syndrome is a universal human experience, but the way it is expressed can differ between generations and genders.
Self-awareness is key to understanding and managing imposter syndrome and can be used to be a better servant leader.
Understanding the emotions and motivations of others can help build empathy and improve relationships. Look beneath the surface when someone behaves badly and consider their underlying needs.
Understand your own communication style and be aware of how it may impact others.
Seek credible information and be cautious of misinformation, especially in the field of psychology.
Take courses and read books to improve your communication skills and personal development.

Chapters

00:18 Introduction and Background
10:26 Exploring Imposter Syndrome Across Generations
24:11 Understanding Others: Building Empathy
31:50 Seeking Credible Information
39:57 Challenging Simplistic Explanations

Links from the podcast:

Foundational Application of Social Engineering
https://www.social-engineer.com/product/foundational-application-of-social-engineering/

Chris’s books on Amazon
https://tinyurl.com/mrx6umcb

Dr. Abbie’s Book
Work in Progress: The Road to Empowerment, The Journey Through Shame
https://tinyurl.com/jzbsu2ev

Social-Engineer YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@Social-Engineer

Dr. Abbie’s TEDX Manchester talk
https://www.tedxmanchester.com/abbie-marono/

Contacting Chris Hadnagy
Web: https://www.social-engineer.org/
Blog: https://www.social-engineer.org/blog/
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/christopherhadnagy

Contacting Dr. Abbie Maroño
Web: https://www.abbiemarono.com
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/dr-abbie-maroño-phd-35ab2611a

I’m testing out the AI Generated Summary…

In this conversation, Dave Prior and Scott Sehlhorst discuss the importance of improving the product plan while executing it. They explore the common problem of companies jumping straight into execution without considering what they should build and why. Scott emphasizes the need to shift from a mindset of control to one of influence, where product managers focus on solving problems and creating value for customers and the business. They also discuss the concept of uncertainty and sensitivity and how to navigate it using impact mapping to identify needs and changes. In this conversation, Scott Sehlhorst discusses the importance of shifting into a business model and the need to create changes and hypotheses. He emphasizes the process of narrowing down the target population and quantifying the impact of changes. Scott also highlights the significance of determining sensitivity and making connections between cause and effect. He introduces the confidence rubric and explains how to prioritize experiments. The conversation concludes with the idea of constantly improving the plan and focusing on the next most important thing to learn.

Takeaways

Companies often jump straight into execution without considering what they should build and why.
Product managers should shift from a mindset of control to one of influence, focusing on solving problems and creating value for customers and the business.
Uncertainty and sensitivity are inherent in product development, and it is impossible to know everything before building a product.
Using impact mapping can help identify needs and changes, allowing for experimentation and learning in an uncertain environment. Shifting into a business model involves creating changes and hypotheses.
Narrowing down the target population is crucial for effective experimentation.
Quantifying the impact of changes helps determine the potential outcomes.
Using a confidence rubric can aid in decision-making and prioritization.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
03:00 The Fear of Being Late vs. the Fear of Being Wrong
05:58 Backlog Rationalization Workshop
10:00 Moving from Control to Influence
13:07 Building the Right Things
20:00 Navigating Uncertainty and Sensitivity
29:11 Using Impact Mapping to Identify Needs and Changes
31:56 Shifting into Business Model
33:05 Creating Changes and Hypotheses
34:32 Narrowing Down the Target Population
35:15 Quantifying the Impact
36:34 Determining Sensitivity
38:21 Making Connections and Causal Relationships
39:36 Confidence and Uncertainty
43:00 The Confidence Rubric
44:23 Prioritizing Experiments
49:29 What's the Next Most Important Thing to Learn
53:28 Improving the Plan

Links from the Podcast
The Empathy Map Podcast where Scott and I discuss Impact Mapping
https://on.soundcloud.com/szLXeqe5Q6t2Tf9b8

Scott’s blog post about using a Confidence Rubric
https://uxpressia.com/blog/make-decisions-about-business-experiments

Contacting Scott:
Scott’s Blog at Tyner Blain: tynerblain.com/blog/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sehlhorst/
Twitter: twitter.com/sehlhorst
Email: scott@tynerblain.com