PM-Mastery Walt Sparling

In This Episode:
A seasoned veteran of project and program management, Joseph Jordan, joins us in a riveting discussion on PM Mastery. With 45 years of invaluable experience, Joseph provides us with an inside look into his current role with Trace Systems and his exciting journey of writing his book, The Mini Project Framework. He also takes us along on his future endeavours as he hopes to create a product or application that will assist others in the realm of project management.


Navigating the dynamic landscape of project management, Joseph enlightens us on the challenges it holds and the significance of staying well-informed. He imparts his wisdom on managing the constraint triangle of scope, schedule, and budget - a skill honed from his vast professional experience. Gleaning from his personal tools, Joseph introduces us to the efficacy of Microsoft Project and OneNote and provides a sneak peek into his mini-project framework.


As we delve deeper, we explore the Project Management Institute's framework for citizen development and the fascinating concept of project revolution. Joseph explains the potential benefits of transitioning a project to a product. He underscores the importance of gate reviews and the poignant idea of accepting sunk costs as a part of the project management journey. The discussion takes an insightful turn as we uncover the principles of Rolling Wave planning and its applications across various project types. Listen in and enrich your project management journey with Joseph's trailblazing experiences and insights.


Favorite Tool(s):
Microsoft Project - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/project/project-management-softwareMicrosoft OneNote - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/onenote/digital-note-taking-appLinks:
Check out Joseph Jordan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephjordanpmp/Joseph Jordan's Website: https://www.josephjordan.org/Mini Project Framework: https://www.josephjordan.org/2022/08/27/the-mini-project-framework/For a full podcast episode list, visit here: PM-Mastery Podcast Episodes.For a full list of blog posts, go here: PM-Mastery Blog PostsPM-Mastery.com PMI Talent Triangle: Technical /Ways of Working - Leadership/Power Skills (Learn More)
Get your free PDU Tracker here: https://pm-mastery.com/resource/

In This Episode:
 Meet Aylin, a Six Sigma Master Black Belt with a knack for transforming organizations from the inside out. As an 'organizational therapist,' Eileen has spent over a decade honing her craft in industries spanning government, finance, healthcare, and technology. Her most recent stint at a Fortune 500 e-commerce powerhouse has equipped her with rich insights into the world of tech transformation. Listen to Aylin break down her role in designing processes that enhance digitization while emphasizing the critical nature of simplifying work experiences and giving voice to people in the workplace.


In this engaging conversation, Aylin takes us through some of her favorite tools for decision-making and process improvement. She introduces the Rapid Decision Making Model - a tool designed for organizations with a complex matrix structure. Additionally, she discusses her experiences with the FMEA tool for risk assessment and solutioning and how it can be instrumental in proving to senior leadership that all potential risks have been addressed. 

We wrap things up by discussing the benefits of the Six Sigma Greenbelt certification for project managers and the importance of continuing education in keeping pace with evolving trends. Aylin shares her unique networking approach through LinkedIn, so don't miss this opportunity to glean insights from her diverse experiences in project management!
Check out the full episode's show notes for some great resource links! 

Favorite Tool(s):
Rapid Decision-Making Model (Bain and Company): Check out his article by Harvard Business Review: https://hbr.org/2006/01/who-has-the-d-how-clear-decision-roles-enhance-organizational-performanceFMEA:  Failure mode and Effect Analysis (Think of RISK assessment)
https://asq.org/quality-resources/fmea Links:
Check out Aylin's incredible career story here: https://www.aylinroeben.me/aboutConnect with Aylin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aroeben/For a full podcast episode list, visit here: PM-Mastery Podcast Episodes.For a full list of blog posts, go here: PM-Mastery Blog PostsPM-Mastery.com  PMI Talent Triangle: Multiple areas:
Technical /Ways of Working Leadership/Power Skills Strategy/Business Acumen (Learn More) Get your free PDU Tracker here: https://pm-mastery.com/resource/

Dreamt of trading your teaching career for something different? Meet Melissa Chapman, a middle school teacher turned international project manager, who skillfully made this bold transition. She'll walk us through her journey, sharing invaluable insights on how teaching skills can cleverly be repurposed into the project management world. Melissa's personal story promises to inspire those considering a career switch or those simply curious about project management.

Switching careers is no small feat, but Melissa stayed steadfast and attacked each hurdle with enthusiasm and a drive to succeed. From preparing for the PMP certification exam to handling the technical aspects of project management, she's got a wealth of knowledge to share.

Our conversation takes a broader turn as we delve into the escalating trend of teachers moving towards project management roles. Why is this happening and what opportunities does this hold? Melissa shares her take on this and introduces resources like free LinkedIn optimization courses for teachers contemplating this transition.

 Favorite Tool(s):
ASANA  -  https://asana.com/OneNote -  https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/onenote/digital-note-taking-app Books Mentioned:
- John Connolly - The Unready Project Manager
- Jerimiah Hammon - The Project Management Pathway
 
Links:
Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissachappyFor a full podcast episode list, visit here: PM-Mastery Podcast Episodes.For a full list of blog posts, go here: PM-Mastery Blog PostsPM-Mastery.com  PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills - Strategy/Business Acumen (Learn More)
Get your free PDU Tracker here: https://pm-mastery.com/resource/

In This Episode:
Ever thought about making a major career shift but are uncertain about what lies ahead? Join us on a journey as we sit down with Elizabeth Grace, a former educator turned tech enthusiast, now ardently crafting her path in project management. Elizabeth brings to light her transformative journey from the realm of education to the dynamic world of tech, driven by her deep-seated desire for a balanced work-life harmony. She lays bare her aspirations and navigations within tech, ed tech, and healthcare industries, giving us a peek into the robust 'why' that fueled her transition into project management.


We also crack open the complexities of communication challenges inherent in project management with Elizabeth, and how she deftly maneuvered them in her past role. Listen as she uncovers the tactics she employed for team management and the vital tools she found indispensable. The conversation takes a fascinating turn as we explore the promising opportunities available for educators keen on project management. We shine a spotlight on the plethora of transferrable skills – customer service, conflict resolution, and account management to name a few, that educators can leverage. Whether you're contemplating a career switch to project management or hungering to enhance your own skills, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. 


Let Elizabeth's story fuel your own journey's inspiration.


Favorite Tool(s):
Trello Links:
Connect with Grace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-grace/For a full podcast episode list, visit here: PM-Mastery Podcast Episodes.For a full list of blog posts, go here: PM-Mastery Blog PostsPM-Mastery.com PMI Talent Triangle: Leadership/Power Skills (Learn More)
Get your free PDU Tracker here: https://pm-mastery.com/resource/

In this episode:
Ever wondered how a surgical tech can transition into a highly successful project manager? Join me for an enlightening conversation with Stephanie Tsacogianis, a project manager in sports medicine hailing from the Greater Boston Area. Boasting a diversified 14-year span in the healthcare industry, Stephanie brings to the table her expertise in effective leadership, collaboration and project management.

As we navigate through our discourse, we touch upon pertinent issues such as process improvement initiatives, the significance of a resilient backup plan, as well as the power of mentorship. Our conversation is full of valuable insights, practical advice and a dash of inspiration, making it an episode not to be missed.
As we delve deeper, we discuss leadership book recommendations and the potential of Excel learning courses. Stephanie shares her experience with the quadrant note-taking system, the importance of patience during a role transition, and the upcoming event - Knights and Ladies of the Roundtable- which focuses on effective communication. 

This episode is a must-listen for all project managers and those intending to join the field. Tune in and let Stephanie's journey inspire your own.


Check out valuable links to books and additional resources below.


Favorite Learning Resources:
LinkedInUdemyPodcastsLeadership BooksBooks Mentioned:
Managing Up - Amazon LinkGood to Great - Amazon LinkFive Workplace Appreciation Languages - Amazon LinkHow to win Friends and influence people - Amazon LinkAdditional Links and Resources:
Connect with Stephanie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-tsacogianis/Kevin Stratvert on YouTubeLeighla Gharani on YouTubeThere is a built-in AI coach for PowerPoint - Learn moreQuadrant Note-Taking Method - The Secret to Note-taking for Busy PeopleFor a full podcast episode list, visit here: PM-Mastery Podcast Episodes.For a full list of blog posts, go here: PM-Mastery Blog PostsPM-Mastery.com  PMI Talent Triangle: Leadership/Power Skills - Strategy/Business Acumen (Learn More)
Get your free PDU Tracker here: https://pm-mastery.com/resourc

In This Episode:
Ever felt overwhelmed by big projects, wishing you could break them down into smaller, manageable tasks? Join us as we chat with Kayla McGuire, an independent project management consultant whose passion lies in doing just that! 
With her background in startups and small businesses, Kayla will share her journey of realizing her love for project management and how she transformed it into a successful consulting business.
In this fascinating conversation, we'll discuss the importance of flexibility with project management tools and solutions, and how Kayla approaches each project with a fresh perspective as a PM consultant. 
Get ready to explore her popular YouTube channel, which she started without any promotion, and learn how her consulting business has grown since its inception. By the end of this episode, you'll be inspired by Kayla's drive to empower others and turn their ideas into reality. Don't miss out on these invaluable insights from an expert in the field!
Favorite Tool(s):
Shortcut.ioGoogle Suite (Google Workspace)Monday.comDid You Know:
There are over 128,000 open freelance PM positions in the United States:
 https://www.dice.com/career-advice/5-steps-to-become-a-freelance-project-manager Links:
Kayla's Website: https://www.kaylamcguire.com/Kayla's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kaylamcguireFollow Kayla on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaylamcguire/For a full podcast episode list, visit here: PM-Mastery Podcast Episodes.For a full list of blog posts, go here: PM-Mastery Blog PostsPM-Mastery.com PMI Talent Triangle: Strategy/Business Acumen (Learn More)
Get your free PDU Tracker here: https://pm-mastery.com/resource/