The Digital Project Manager Podcast: Recent Episodes
Galen Low - The Digital Project Manager
The Digital Project Manager is the home of digital project management inspiration, how-to guides, tips, tricks, tools, funnies, and jobs. We provide project management guidance for the digital wild west where demanding stakeholders, tiny budgets and stupid deadlines reign supreme.
Government projects are often dismissed as slow, bureaucratic, and overly reliant on expensive consultants. But according to William Moroz, that narrative is increasingly outdated. Drawing on experience across both government and consulting, William explains how modern public sector teams are leading ambitious, mission-driven initiatives with a stronger focus on accountability, transparency, and measurable public value.
In this conversation, Galen and William explore how AI is reshaping government procurement, why collaboration is replacing traditional vendor relationships, and what it really takes to become a trusted government collaborator. From auditability and AI literacy to balancing innovation with responsible governance, this episode offers a grounded look at delivering technology that serves citizens—not just stakeholders.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with William on LinkedIn
Generative AI is changing how project teams work—but too many professionals are still treating it like a smarter search engine. The result? Generic prompts, generic outputs, and a growing tendency to trust polished responses without applying the critical thinking that makes great project leaders valuable in the first place.
In this episode, Galen Low sits down with AI consultant and educator Mashhood Ahmed to explore why curiosity, context, and strategic questioning matter more than ever. Together, they unpack how AI can amplify—not replace—human judgment, and share practical ways leaders can help their teams move beyond surface-level prompting toward more thoughtful, effective collaboration with AI.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Mashhood on LinkedIn and TikTok
- Visit M1 Consultants Inc.
Digital transformation has been a business buzzword for decades—but despite years of experience, most enterprise transformation initiatives still fail. Why? And can AI finally help organizations break the cycle?
In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Rick Catalano, founder and CEO of AMIGO and author of The AI Project Manager, to unpack why large-scale transformation projects continue to struggle, what AI can (and can't) solve, and why the future of project leadership is less about replacing people and more about helping them make better decisions.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Rick on LinkedIn
- Visit AMIGO
- Check out Rick’s book – “The AI Project Manager: The Framework for Successful AI-Enabled Enterprise Transformation”
Project management in construction is often dismissed as traditional, but when it comes to AI and data, the industry may be further ahead than many people realize. In this conversation, James Garner, Head of AI and Data at Gleeds and founder of Project Flux, shares why construction is becoming a proving ground for AI adoption—and what project professionals in every industry can learn from it.
From overcoming resistance to new technology to navigating career shifts and building AI literacy, James offers a refreshingly balanced perspective on the future of project management. Whether you're leading digital initiatives or considering a career pivot, this episode explores why judgment, curiosity, and creativity will become even more valuable in the age of AI.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with James on LinkedIn
- Visit Gleeds and Project Flux
AI is starting to reshape project management—but its biggest impact isn't replacing project managers. It's removing the operational overhead that keeps them buried in admin so they can focus on the work that actually moves projects and client relationships forward.
In this conversation, Tim Fisher sits down with Bernarda Vrbat from Productive to explore how AI is evolving beyond chatbots into skills and autonomous agents. They discuss where AI is already delivering practical value for professional services businesses, what teams are (and aren't) comfortable delegating to AI, and why the future of project management is less about doing repetitive work and more about making high-value decisions.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Bernarda on LinkedIn
- Visit Productive
Some people see AI as a threat to creativity. Others see it as the next evolution of the creative toolkit. In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Tom Brown and Eric Oldrin, co-founders of Original Model, an AI-native creative agency, to explore what happens when creative thinking—not AI—stays at the center of the process. Together, they unpack how agencies can embrace AI without sacrificing originality, storytelling, or quality.
Broadcast live from the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, this conversation explores why so much AI-generated work falls flat, how thoughtful agencies are integrating AI across strategy, ideation, and production, and why the future of creative work may depend less on mastering tools and more on strengthening human judgment.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Eric and Tom on LinkedIn
- Visit Original Model Creative Agency
Remote and hybrid work is no longer a temporary adjustment—it’s how many project teams operate every day. But while we've become better at working asynchronously and using AI to boost productivity, it's worth asking whether we've unintentionally lost some of the human elements that make collaboration truly effective.
In this conversation, Galen Low sits down with Karen Chong to explore what remote teams are missing, why intentional collaboration matters more than ever, and how project leaders can recreate the trust, creativity, and learning that once happened naturally in shared office spaces. They also dive into AI's growing role in team collaboration—and why efficiency alone isn't enough to build high-performing teams.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Karen on LinkedIn
- Visit Abracademy & The Mind Blend podcast
Project management often gets framed as a career path, but increasingly it's becoming a skill that professionals across every function need to develop. As organizations navigate AI-driven transformation, cross-functional initiatives, and constant change, more people are finding themselves responsible for leading projects—whether or not "project manager" appears in their job title.
Galen Low sits down with Stuart Taylor, founder of Influential PMO and author of Becoming The Project Manager, to explore what separates effective project leaders from accidental coordinators. They unpack common misconceptions about project management, the leadership and communication skills that matter most when plans don't go as expected, and why learning to lead projects may become a defining career milestone for professionals at every level.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Stuart on LinkedIn and YouTube
- Visit Influential PMO
- Check out Stuart’s book: “Becoming The Project Manager”
AI is forcing every function to reevaluate what creates value—and project management is no exception. In this conversation, Alla Tarasenko, Principal Technical Program Manager at Gusto, shares why building AI agents isn't about replacing program managers. It's about reclaiming capacity for the work that matters most: coaching teams, improving processes, and driving cross-functional alignment.
Alla walks through the practical realities of building an AI-powered intake and triage system that serves more than 1,000 internal stakeholders, the unexpected challenges that emerge after the first successful prompt, and why change management may become one of the most important leadership skills in the AI era. More importantly, she offers a thoughtful perspective on how AI could break down silos and create stronger collaboration across technical teams—if leaders are intentional about how they implement it.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Alla on LinkedIn
- Visit Gusto
Public speaking is often framed as a stage skill—but for project leaders, it’s really a leadership skill. In this episode, Galen Low sits down with fractional PM, consultant, and award-winning Toastmaster Megan Cotterman to explore how communication, audience awareness, active listening, and adaptability show up in the everyday realities of project work. From project kickoffs and stakeholder updates to difficult conversations and team alignment, they unpack why strong communication is becoming even more valuable in an AI-powered world.
They also dive into practical ways introverted and ambiverted project managers can build confidence, develop resilience, and strengthen their ability to think on their feet—without becoming the loudest person in the room.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Megan on LinkedIn
- Visit Managed By Megan
In a marketing landscape shaped by lean teams, rising expectations, and an ever-expanding stack of AI tools, many leaders are asking the same question: do agencies still have a role to play? In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Tammy Valentine, President of LuckyTamm Marketing Group, to explore how boutique agencies are evolving in the age of AI—and why human expertise, trust, and collaboration still matter.
Together, they unpack where AI genuinely adds value, where it falls short, and how marketing leaders can build stronger agency partnerships that help them achieve more with less. Along the way, they share practical lessons on experimentation, brand trust, onboarding, and the fundamentals that continue to drive marketing success regardless of technology shifts.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Tammy on LinkedIn
- Visit LuckyTamm
What happens when AI stops being a tool you type into and starts becoming something you talk to? In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Oliver Shoulson, Agent Design and Engineering Lead at PolyAI, to unpack the surprisingly human problem at the heart of conversational AI: most AI conversations still feel weird.
From clunky chatbot scripts to overly polite “LLM voice” personas that sound like they were trained by a committee of HR robots, Oliver explains why good conversational design is less about mimicking humans perfectly and more about removing friction. The conversation explores the psychology of trust, the mechanics of social presence, and why the future of AI interfaces may depend less on visual design and more on understanding how people naturally speak, interrupt, hesitate, clarify, and collaborate.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Oliver on LinkedIn
- Check out Oliver’s website
- Visit PolyAI
Slide decks aren’t going away. Despite years of corporate eye-rolls, overloaded bullet points, and “this could’ve been an email” energy, presentations still sit at the center of how organizations align people around ideas. And now AI is crashing directly into that workflow.
In this episode, Galen sits down with Morgan Cornelius, Chief of Staff at Decky and founder of mrcantile, to unpack why presentations still matter, where most AI-generated decks fall apart, and how teams can use AI as a collaborative thought partner instead of a slop machine. They dig into the real purpose of slides—not transferring information, but creating resonance—and explore what happens when AI removes the production bottleneck but leaves humans responsible for the thinking.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Morgan on LinkedIn
- Check out Decky and use promo code DeckyDPM for one month free of Decky Pro
- Visit mrcantile
AI-powered PM tools promise everything from predictive risk alerts to automated status reports—but what happens when the tool you picked doesn’t actually deliver on the features that sold you in the first place?
In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Emmanuels Magaya, Director of Technology at Tech Legends and Founder & CEO of Project Managers Africa, to unpack what organizations should do when their AI-powered project management platform falls short. Drawing from his experience testing hundreds of AI tools, Emmanuels shares a practical framework for evaluating AI software, explains why organizations shouldn’t rely on one tool to do everything, and walks through how AI agents and automation workflows can augment existing PM ecosystems.
The conversation also dives into AI literacy, predictive PMOs, and why emerging markets have a unique opportunity to leapfrog traditional delivery models—if they approach AI strategically instead of reactively.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Emmanuels on LinkedIn
- Visit Project Managers Africa and Tech Legends
The pace of change in today’s workforce isn’t just fast—it’s compounding. In this episode, Galen sits down with higher education leaders Sasha Thackaberry-Voinovich and Charlotte Bencaz to unpack what it actually takes to stay relevant when roles, tools, and expectations are shifting in real time. From the decline of entry-level roles to the rise of AI-augmented “power workers,” this conversation challenges the idea that learning is a one-time investment—and reframes it as a continuous, strategic habit.
They also dig into what’s broken (and fixable) in traditional education, how to build skills without taking on massive debt, and why the real risk isn’t AI itself—but uneven access to it. If you’re trying to pivot, level up, or just keep up, this episode offers a grounded look at what’s actually working right now.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Sasha and Charlotte on LinkedIn
- Visit Newstate University
Project management certifications have become the industry’s favorite shorthand for competence—but what are they actually signaling? In this candid panel, Galen Low sits down with Crystal Richards, Dave Prior, and Karthick Nivas Ramdoss to unpack what certifications do (and just as importantly, what they don’t). From PMP to CSM to emerging AI-focused credentials like CPMAI, the conversation cuts through the alphabet soup and gets to the real question: are we hiring for capability, or just filtering for compliance?
What emerges is a more uncomfortable truth. Certifications can open doors, create shared language, and signal commitment—but they’re also being misused as blunt instruments in hiring systems that are already overwhelmed. The result? Talented people get filtered out, hiring managers get false confidence, and organizations end up chasing “unicorn” candidates that don’t exist. This episode is a reality check—and a practical guide—for anyone trying to make smarter decisions about project talent.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Crystal, Dave, and Karthick on LinkedIn
- Visit MindsparQ, The Agile Network, and PMI
- Check out these books:
- PMP Exam Prep For Dummies (2nd Edition) By Crystal Richards
- No One Is Coming to Save You: The Power-Ups to Help Surf the Chaos By Dave Prior
Most AI tools weren’t designed with kids in mind—but kids are using them anyway. That tension sits at the heart of this conversation with Aderonke Akinbola, where the question isn’t if we should build AI for children, but how we do it responsibly. From digital playgrounds that shape behavior to the long-term implications of data exposure, this episode explores why the stakes are fundamentally different for younger users—and why product teams can’t afford to treat child safety as an afterthought.
Galen and Ade dig into what it really means to design AI experiences that protect, educate, and develop young users. They unpack practical ways teams can introduce ethical friction, rethink data handling, and advocate for safer systems—while also looking ahead to a future where AI itself may act as a guardian for children navigating an increasingly intelligent digital world.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Aderonke on LinkedIn
Soft skills are having a moment—but they’re still widely misunderstood, undervalued, or dismissed as “nice to have.” In this episode, Galen sits down with Yadi Caro to unpack why that perception persists—and why it’s costing teams more than they realize. Drawing from her experience working with elite technical teams in the defense sector, Yadi reframes soft skills as something far more rigorous: essential capabilities that enable collaboration, decision-making, and ultimately, results.
Together, they explore what it actually looks like to apply these skills in high-pressure, highly technical environments—and why, in the age of AI, they’re becoming even more critical. From onboarding new team members mid-project to navigating conflict and driving alignment, this conversation makes a strong case: soft skills aren’t soft—they’re the work.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Yadi on LinkedIn
- Check out SAIC
- Yadi’s book: Hardcore Soft Skills and podcast
AI transformation isn’t just a tech upgrade—it’s a human one. In this episode, Eric Porres (Chief AI Officer at Logitech) pulls back the curtain on what year two of an enterprise-wide AI transformation actually looks like. From shifting mindsets to scaling real adoption, this conversation gets into the messy middle: where curiosity turns into capability, and experimentation starts becoming systems.
What stands out is how much of this journey has nothing to do with picking the “right” model—and everything to do with behavior change. Eric shares how Logitech moved from AI curiosity to AI competency, what it takes to build a culture of creators (not just users), and why thinking of AI as a teammate—not a tool—changes everything.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Eric on LinkedIn and Substack
- Check out Logitech
AI is moving fast—but the underlying challenges aren’t new. In this episode, Galen sits down with Eugina Jordan to unpack what today’s AI boom can learn from past transformations like 5G. From tool overload to shaky business models, they explore why the winners of this wave won’t just be the biggest players—but those who can turn AI into real, usable value for everyday people.
They also dig into what AI actually unlocks for small and medium-sized businesses, why “ordinary people” may be the biggest beneficiaries, and how the next wave of innovation might already exist—just waiting for the tech to catch up.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Eugina:
- TikTok
- YouTube
- YOUnifiedAI
AI isn’t just another layer of tooling—it’s becoming the operating system for how professional services teams plan, deliver, and scale their work. In this conversation, Tim Fisher sits down with Joe DiPaulo (CEO of Accelo) to unpack how AI-native PSA platforms like Forecast are shifting teams from reactive firefighting to proactive, data-driven delivery.
They explore what’s actually changing on the ground: from margin leakage and spreadsheet chaos to predictive resourcing and AI-assisted decision-making. The throughline is clear—AI isn’t about replacing people, it’s about helping teams scale smarter, with better visibility, stronger utilization, and more consistent outcomes.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Joe:
- Accelo
- Forecast
Capacity planning can feel like a tug-of-war between sales, delivery teams, and leadership—especially when growth goals collide with a team that already feels stretched. In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Brandon Llewellyn, Head of Delivery at Cirface, to unpack how delivery leaders can use data to diagnose real capacity issues, make smarter resourcing decisions, and avoid the trap of “just squeezing in one more project.”
Brandon shares how his team approaches capacity planning using simple but powerful metrics, why top-down planning often beats granular task estimates, and how productized services, deal size, and role clarity can dramatically change how “busy” a team feels. They also explore how AI is influencing operational efficiency—and what leaders should actually do with the time it frees up.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Brandon:
- Cirface
When AI hype is shouting “anything is possible,” it’s easy for teams—especially in regulated, risk-aware orgs—to feel like innovation is either reserved for the “creative people” or only happens in labs behind closed doors. JoAnn Stonier makes the case that innovation isn’t a personality type—it’s a muscle. You can train it, but you also need permission, constraints, and a shared way of working so the results don’t devolve into chaos (or a pile of half-baked agents someone tries to “just unplug”).
This episode is a practical look at how to balance innovation with risk without turning your org into a two-headed “push-me pull-you” that never goes anywhere. The throughline: design thinking isn’t a tired framework—it’s the operating system that helps organizations create consistent, values-driven guardrails as AI becomes increasingly democratized across every function.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Check out this episode’s sponsor: Toggl
- Connect with JoAnn:
- The Cantellus Group
Emotional intelligence has always mattered in project work—but in the age of AI, it’s becoming a differentiator. In this episode, Galen sits down with Nadja El Fertasi, founder of Thrive with EQ and former NATO leader, to unpack how EQ shows up in high-stakes digital transformation—and why it may be the most overlooked risk mitigation strategy in your toolkit.
Drawing from nearly two decades inside NATO’s cyber and digital transformation initiatives, Nadja shares how stakeholder engagement, influence, and emotional resilience directly impact everything from project delivery to cybersecurity. As AI accelerates automation and amplifies both opportunity and risk, the real question isn’t whether EQ still matters—it’s whether we’re investing in it fast enough.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Check out this episode’s sponsor: Toggl
- Connect with Nadja:
- Thrive with EQ
In a job market that’s already shaky, it’s easy to see AI-led automation as salt in the wound. But Wade Foster flips that framing: pushing into AI is actually one of the kinder things organizations can do—because it strips away the “mysticism” and replaces it with something more useful: a pragmatic understanding of what AI can save you from (tedious, brain-draining tasks) and what it can’t replace (problem-solving, judgment, taste).
What comes through in this conversation is a more grounded promise: AI doesn’t erase the job—it helps in the “messy middle.” And when you use it as a thought partner (not just a shortcut), it can actually increase the time you spend on meaningful work… because it makes the process more enjoyable and the output better.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Wade on LinkedIn and X
- Check out Wade’s website and Zapier
- Zapier MCP (Model Context Protocol)
- Zapier MCP Documentation & Setup (Quickstart)
- Zapier MCP Guide: Use with Your AI Client
- Zapier MCP with Anthropic (Claude)
- Zapier Agent Skills for Claude (Blog)
Trust in AI isn’t a vibe—it’s something you can intentionally design for (or accidentally break). In this episode, Galen sits down with Cal Al-Dhubaib to unpack “trust engineering”: a shared toolkit that helps cross-functional teams (engineering, UX, governance, risk, and business) talk about the same trust risks in the same language. They get into why “boring AI is safe AI,” how guardrails and human handoffs actually preserve trust, and why the biggest failures often aren’t the model—they’re the systems (and incentives) wrapped around it.
You’ll also hear real-world examples of trust going sideways—from biased outcomes to hallucinated “gaslighting,” to AI-assisted deliverables causing accuracy issues—and what project leaders can do to prevent finger-pointing when it happens.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Cal on LinkedIn
- Check out Further
- AI Incident Database
PMOs are at a crossroads. As AI-led transformation accelerates, many organizations are still treating PMOs as project police—while quietly expecting them to deliver strategic clarity, risk foresight, and business value. In this conversation, Galen sits down with Amireh Amirmazaheri to unpack why that disconnect exists, what PMOs need to unlearn to move forward, and how the role must evolve if it’s going to earn (and keep) a seat at the table.
They explore the real difference between managing projects and enabling business success, why AI won’t save broken processes, and what it takes to lead a PMO with purpose instead of power. The result is an honest, human-centered look at the future of PMOs—one that prioritizes judgment, ethics, and clarity over templates, tools, and false certainty.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Amireh on LinkedIn
- Check out PMO Solutions
Related articles and podcasts:
- About the podcast
- Our Final Invention: Artificial Intelligence and the End of the Human Era by James Barrat
- 21 Lessons for the 21st Century by Yuval Noah Harari
Do project management methodologies still matter when AI can generate plans, notes, and schedules in seconds? In this episode, Galen sits down with Stan Yanakiev to unpack why the answer is still a firm yes—but with an important caveat: methodologies have to adapt. Together, they explore how PMs can move faster with AI without losing control, context, or the human side of delivery.
The conversation digs into lightweight project management, human-in-the-loop AI, and why speed without structure leads to “speed wobbles.” Stan shares practical examples of using AI to reduce documentation overhead, strengthen decision-making, and free PMs up to do what they do best: lead people, align stakeholders, and navigate complexity.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Stan on LinkedIn
- Check out Mindrise
AI is touching every role, every industry, and every level of an organization—but that doesn’t mean every project manager needs to become an engineer. In this conversation, Galen Low sits down with AI strategist and engineering leader Kesha Williams to talk about what PMs really need to know to stay relevant in an AI‑infused world.
They explore how to lead AI‑related projects without getting lost in the technical weeds, how to confidently translate between business and technical teams, and how to focus on outcomes over hype. With clear examples, sharp insights, and a dash of humor, this episode is packed with guidance for delivery leaders navigating AI today—and preparing for what’s next.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Kesha on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter/X
- Check out KeySoft website
- Kesha on AI – LinkedIn Page
- Kesha on AI – Substack
- Everyday AI Challenge – LinkedIn Learning
Navigating government grants and funding opportunities can feel like deciphering ancient runes, but for project leaders working in innovation and R&D, cracking that code could be a game-changer. In this episode, Galen chats with Rachel Huang, founder of ClaimKit, about how public and private funding mechanisms can be more accessible—and faster—for startups and innovation projects. Drawing on her background as a chemical engineer, tech commercialization expert, and former professional tennis player, Rachel shares how she's helping companies secure capital through automated, human-assisted grant applications.
They explore the often-underutilized world of R&D tax credits, debunk the myth that only big corporations benefit, and spotlight why smaller, scrappier teams might be better positioned to innovate quickly—if they can unlock funding. From navigating complex eligibility rules to reframing grant-writing as a strategic lever rather than an afterthought, this episode is a practical look at how to fund innovation in a fast-moving, competitive world.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn
- Check out ClaimKit
In a world where AI hype is everywhere, what does meaningful, grounded transformation actually look like? In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Michael Domanic, VP and Head of AI at UserTesting, to unpack how AI is being strategically integrated into core business functions—not just to ride the hype wave, but to unlock measurable value. From demystifying the ROI of AI to cultivating a culture of experimentation and enablement, Michael shares his real-world approach to driving AI transformation that sticks.
They dive into the mindset shifts needed as organizations mature in their AI journey, how UX professionals are becoming more essential than ever, and why the future of AI in business may not be about tech at all—but about how people adapt to ongoing change.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Michael on LinkedIn
- Check out UserTesting
Amid the buzz around AI in project management, what’s actually changing on the ground? In this special episode of The Digital Project Manager podcast, producer Becca Banyard steps in as host alongside Tim Fisher, VP of AI at Black & White Zebra, for a live conversation from our "Future of AI in Project Management" event series. They’re joined by Harv Nagra from Scoro to dig into how AI is transforming project delivery today—not someday, but right now.
Together, they unpack the day-to-day realities of managing shifting timelines, growing complexity, and tool sprawl, and how AI is starting to relieve some of that burden. You’ll hear a grounded, tactical take on what “practical AI” actually looks like, how Scoro is approaching it differently, and what project managers can expect next.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Harv and Tim on LinkedIn
- Check out Scoro
- Watch the full event with Scoro’s live demo: The Future Of AI In Project Management with Scoro
Building AI teammates isn’t a future-state fantasy—it’s already happening. Megan Ratcliff shares how she tackled resource constraints in SaaS marketing by creating a custom AI ecosystem that filled key gaps across content, strategy, and cross-functional alignment. The result? Less time on execution, more space for strategic leadership.
This conversation brings grounded insight into how AI can be used to replace tasks, not people—while creating opportunities to reimagine roles entirely. From demystifying the learning curve to managing team adoption and navigating the future of work, Megan offers a clear-eyed look at how to use AI meaningfully without losing the human judgment that drives results.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Megan on LinkedIn
- Check out Clarity and Motion Collective
Project managers are often tasked with delivering “on time and on budget”—but what if that’s not enough? In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Stephen Devaux, a longtime project management theorist and the mind behind techniques like critical path drag and value breakdown structures. Together, they unpack why project leaders need to start managing their work like investors—not just builders—and why this mindset shift matters more than ever in the AI era.
From projects that save lives to projects that launch products, Stephen explains how understanding a project’s value profile—not just its deliverables—is the key to smarter decision-making. They cover real-world applications of treating projects as investments, explore the bridge-building metaphor that will stick with you for life, and discuss how AI could (and should) support project managers in this paradigm shift.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Stephen on LinkedIn
- Stephen’s books:
- Managing Projects as Investments: Earned Value to Business Value
- Total Project Control: A Practitioner’s Guide to Managing Projects as Investments
Feeling behind on your agency's data game? Marcel Petitpas, CEO of Parakeeto, joins Galen Low to reframe what it really takes to build profitable, data-driven operations. Hint: it’s not about buying software or pushing for time tracking compliance. Marcel breaks down why starting with metrics, models, and meaning—not tools—is the real shortcut to operational clarity.
With real-talk on utilization myths, data fluency for PMs, and how AI can actually drive measurable impact (without overwhelming your team), this episode is a field guide for agency leaders who want to do more than just keep up. It's about building a smarter foundation for the long haul—and doing it in a way that doesn’t burn you out.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Marcel on LinkedIn
- Check out Parakeeto
- Agency Profit Podcast
- Parakeeto Profitability Framework & Toolkit
What if regulation wasn’t a blocker to AI transformation—but a strategic advantage? Galen sits down with Lauren Wallace—former Chief Legal Officer at RadarFirst and a veteran in legal, product, and AI governance—to explore how regulated industries can harness their existing compliance muscle to lead responsibly in the AI era.
They get into the practicalities of building privacy-first AI strategies, setting clear ethical baselines, and creating internal momentum across cross-functional teams. If you’re navigating digital transformation in a high-stakes, high-compliance environment, this episode delivers grounded advice and hard-won insights you can act on.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn
- Check out RadarFirst
- NOYB - None of Your Business (Max Schrems' privacy rights organization)
- AI Incident Database
Work sometimes triggers our fight‑or‑flight responses—especially in agency life. In this episode, Galen sits down with leadership coach and operations strategist Abigail Jones and project manager/coach Matthew Fox to explore what happens when we ignore the signals our bodies are giving us, and how tapping into our “body intelligence” can help us lead more consciously in a technology‑driven world. They unpack how our nervous systems get hijacked by stress in modern work, how noticing our physical responses becomes a tool (not just a symptom), and how teams and agencies can shift culture to reclaim better performance and wellbeing.
This is a grounded, real‑world conversation—no fluff—about how our bodies, our minds, and our projects intersect.
Resources from this episode:
- Join the Digital Project Manager Community
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Abigail on LinkedIn and Instagram
- Check out Southleft
- Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn and The Bureau
- The Leadership Circle Profile assessment
- What it is: The most comprehensive 360-degree leadership assessment that measures both competencies (what you do) and internal assumptions (how you think)
- Why I use it: It's the only tool I've found that measures both reactive leadership patterns (controlling, protecting, complying) and creative leadership capacities (relating, self-awareness, authenticity, systems thinking)
- Visual profile shows leaders exactly where they're operating from fear vs. trust
- I'm certified to administer and interpret this assessment
- Somatic & Body Intelligence Practices
- Window of Tolerance (from Polyvagal Theory): there's a "window" where you can think clearly and respond consciously. When stress pushes you outside that window, you go into survival mode.
- Concept from Dr. Stephen Porges' Polyvagal Theory
- Understanding your nervous system's capacity to handle stress before going into fight/flight/freeze
- Helps leaders recognize when they're dysregulated and need to pause
- Links to learn more
- https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/whatispolyvagaltheory
- https://www.stayingsane101.com/post/polyvagal-theory-enhancing-the-window-of-tolerance
- Body Scan Practice
- Simple 60-second practice: scan from head to toe and notice sensations without judgment
- Before big decisions, difficult conversations, or anytime you feel activated
- Brings you into present-moment awareness and accesses somatic intelligence
- Free guided meditations
- https://www.uclahealth.org/uclamindful/guided-meditations
- https://www.mindful.org/beginners-body-scan-meditation/
- https://ggia.berkeley.edu/practice/body_scan_meditation
- Tech solutions
- Headspace body scan guide: https://www.headspace.com/meditation/body-scan
- Calm bo
Healthcare is hiring — and not just for clinicians. As digital health systems expand and AI transformation efforts ramp up, there’s a growing demand for technical project professionals who can bring experience from tech, product, and government IT into healthcare environments. But if the opportunities are there, why aren’t more people making the pivot?
Galen chats with Rachel M. Keyser — healthcare IT consultant and founder of Project Elevation Partners — about what’s holding project professionals back, how to navigate the complexity and pace of healthcare work, and why your existing skills might be more transferable than you think. Whether you’re burned out by big tech or just curious about how to break into health tech, this conversation offers grounded, practical guidance for taking the leap.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn
- Check out Project Elevation Partners
AI is fundamentally reshaping how digital products are conceived, built, and delivered—and the shift isn’t just technical, it’s cultural. Jyothi Nookula, a seasoned AI product leader with experience at companies like Netflix, Meta, Amazon AWS, and Etsy, joins Galen to unpack what makes AI-native products so different from conventional ones, why building them demands new evaluation frameworks, and how product teams can evolve their skills and mindset to keep pace.
Whether you're dealing with unpredictable model outputs, shifting success metrics, or a team with uneven comfort levels around emerging tech, Jyothi offers grounded, real-world strategies for staying user-centered, experiment-driven, and confidently collaborative in the face of rapid change.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Jyothi on LinkedIn
- Check out Next Gen Product Manager and Jyothi’s website
Empathy isn't just a feel-good buzzword; it's infrastructure. In this episode, Galen Low chats with Andrea Goulet, communication systems architect and long-time software entrepreneur, about how empathy can act as a technical tool for collaboration, innovation, and high-performance in the age of AI.
Drawing from her experience building a $4M consultancy and translating complex human dynamics into actionable frameworks, Andrea breaks down the mechanics of empathy, why it matters more than ever, and how we can cultivate it in our teams to drive better outcomes. This isn't about being soft—it's about being strategic.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Andrea on LinkedIn
- Check out Andrea’s website
- The Diversity Bonus by Scott E. Page
- Self-Compassion Research by Kristin Neff
Project delivery leads at agencies and consultancies are being called to do more than just manage timelines and budgets—they’re being tapped to think like business leaders. But how do you actually make that leap from tactical execution to strategic influence? Galen sits down with Mark Orttung (CEO of Projectworks) and Pam Butkowski (SVP of Delivery at Horizontal Digital) to unpack the real shifts in mindset, behaviors, and expectations that define this evolution.
They explore what “thinking like a founder” really means in a delivery context, why hybrid roles are becoming the norm, and how to identify who’s ready to step up. Whether you’re trying to grow your own career or help your team level up, this conversation brings clarity to a path that’s often vague and unspoken.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Pam and Mark on LinkedIn
- Check out Horizontal Digital and Projectworks
- Mark’s podcast: The Z Suite
When AI enters the enterprise, the work isn’t just about the tech—it’s about culture, collaboration, and courage. In this episode, Galen chats with Deborah Ketai, a program and change management leader who helped a Fortune 5 healthcare organization align its people, systems, and culture around AI. Together, they unpack how she built a community of practice that broke down silos, reduced knowledge debt, and created space for cross-training, collaboration, and smarter risk management.
From talent strategy to trust and transparency, Deborah shares what it really takes to sustain AI-driven change inside complex organizations—and what PMs need to learn now to stay ahead as their roles evolve.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Deborah on LinkedIn
AI has the potential to revolutionize healthcare—but it’s not just about smart algorithms or automated diagnoses. It’s about earning trust in high-stakes environments where lives are on the line. Galen sits down with David Doan, Director at Kyndryl and former registered nurse, to explore how delivery leaders can navigate the clinical, technological, and ethical challenges of implementing AI in healthcare.
From preserving human judgment and connection to aligning regulators, executives, and frontline clinicians, this conversation digs into the realities of AI-powered healthcare delivery—and what project leaders can do to make it actually work.
Resources from this episode:
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with David on LinkedIn
- Check out Kyndryl
The AI hype in project management software is real—but is everyone ready for it? In this episode, Galen sits down with returning guest Olivia Montgomery, Associate Principal Analyst at Capterra, to explore the findings from her 2025 Project Management Software Trends Survey. They unpack the real reasons behind the surge in demand for AI-enhanced PM tools and the foundational work teams need to do before expecting AI to deliver real ROI.
Together, Galen and Olivia dig into what "AI readiness" actually looks like—technically and culturally. They discuss how competitive FOMO, billion-dollar marketing campaigns, and shifting economic investments are driving decision-making at the executive level, while the realities of adoption, data governance, and employee empowerment are playing out on the ground. They also take a thoughtful look at how PMs can avoid common pitfalls (like AI hallucinations) and begin to build workflows that align with both human and machine strengths.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Olivia on LinkedIn
- Check out Capterra
- Olivia’s report, AI & Security Are Top Concerns in Capterra’s 2025 Project Management Software Trends Survey
The entry-level project management job isn’t what it used to be. With AI automating many of the classic coordinator tasks, the ground floor seems to have disappeared—leaving aspiring PMs wondering how to even get started. In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Benjamin Chan, Founder of CLYMB Consulting, to unpack what this shift really means for junior PMs, hiring managers, and the next generation of project leaders.
Together, they explore how AI is reshaping the role of the project coordinator, what skills and traits are most valuable in today’s job market, and how organizations can reimagine career paths to make sure talent isn’t left behind. Whether you’re breaking in, hiring, or mentoring, this conversation is full of real-world perspective and actionable ideas for navigating the new career landscape.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Ben on LinkedIn
- Check out CLYMB Consulting
Experimenting with AI is exciting—but how do you make the leap from tinkering to transforming agency operations at scale? In this conversation, Galen Low brings together Melissa Morris (Agency Authority), Kelly Vega (VML), and Harv Nagra (Scoro) to talk about how agencies can carve out space for experimentation, align AI use to business goals, and actually implement the good ideas that emerge.
The panel shares stories of saving hours on PM tasks, setting up accountability frameworks, and creating safe spaces for knowledge-sharing. They also surface the tough stuff—fear of job replacement, cultural resistance, governance challenges—and how to navigate it with clarity and empathy.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Melissa, Kelly, Harv on LinkedIn
- Check out Agency Authority, VML, Scoro and The Handbook: Agency Ops podcast
When is the right time to hire an AI leader, and what do they actually do once they’re in the door? In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Tim Fisher, VP of AI at Black & White Zebra, to unpack the real-world impact of AI leadership roles. Together they explore the tension between hype and practicality, the mix of skills needed to bridge tech, business, and people, and why AI leadership is less about flashy experiments and more about building trust, change readiness, and operational maturity.
Tim shares candid insights from his own path into the role, offering a grounded look at how organizations can approach AI without losing sight of their business goals—or their people. If you’ve ever wondered whether a VP of AI is a made-up job, or how AI leadership can actually smooth project delivery, this conversation is for you.
AI is not eating all the jobs—but the story is more nuanced than the headlines suggest. In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Jim Iyoob (President of ETS Labs, CCO at Etech Global Services) and Manu Dwievedi (AVP at ETS Labs) to cut through the noise around large-scale AI transformation in customer experience. Together, they unpack what’s really happening in call centers worldwide, why AI is more about augmentation than replacement, and how organizations can implement AI without breaking the customer or employee experience.
From pragmatic strategies to leadership-level insights, this conversation tackles the real challenges of AI change management: how to start small, get quick wins, and bring people along for the journey. Whether you’re leading a CX transformation or navigating an AI project in any industry, you’ll leave with concrete strategies to make AI work for your team instead of against them.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Jim and Manu on LinkedIn
- Check out ETS Labs and Etech Global Services
How do you know if you’re tracking the right project metrics—or if you’ve been chasing the wrong numbers all along? In this episode, Galen sits down with Lior Gerson, Co-founder & CEO of TargetBoard.ai, to unpack how AI is reshaping KPI management and why aligning metrics with business strategy is the real game-changer.
Together, they explore how project leaders can move beyond legacy metrics like velocity and utilization to focus on measures that truly drive impact. From tackling cultural mismatches around KPIs, to building real-time forecasting models, to leveraging AI for smarter, faster reporting—this is a conversation about cutting through the noise and making metrics meaningful.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Lior on LinkedIn
- Check out TargetBoard.ai
- When the Old, and the New Metrics Fail – Jim Highsmith
In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Brian Kessman of Lodestar Agency Consulting to tackle a big question: is AI finally the deathblow to billable hours? Brian argues yes—and not because AI “broke” the model, but because it’s exposed just how misaligned hourly billing has always been with the real value agencies deliver. Instead of rewarding efficiency and innovation, time-based pricing incentivizes dragging things out and commoditizes expertise. The real shift, Brian says, isn’t just about swapping billing methods—it’s about fundamentally rethinking what you sell, how you position it, and how you prove its impact.
They dig into the Agency Value Model—a framework for moving from selling time to selling outcomes. Brian explains how to define your best-fit clients, identify their high-value problems, and design structured solutions that command higher prices while delivering measurable impact. Along the way, they unpack how to navigate the “race to the bottom” fueled by AI, nearshoring, and automation; why confidence in your positioning can help you turn away misaligned clients; and how to operationalize repeatable, scalable value delivery without falling back into chaos.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Brian on LinkedIn
- Check out Lodestar Agency Consulting
- Value Model Assessment
- Agencies building business models around AI offerings:
- Go Supergood — an AI-native creative agency
- Silverside.ai — an AI innovation lab
- Skeptic™ by Known — uses machine learning and artificial intelligence to deploy rapid scientific experimentation and persistent optimization
- Jellyfish — social media AI agents
- Magnolia by Newfangled — is an AI-powered strategic planner
- Content Symphony
AI is transforming the creative workflow—but not in the ways we first expected. In this conversation with Galen Low, creative and PM leaders Sara Fisher, Sara Doubleday, and Greg Storey talk through the practical and philosophical implications of AI’s growing role in creative work. This isn’t about flashy tools or end-to-end automation. It’s about realigning how teams work, communicate value, and preserve the human essence in their process.
From misinformed client expectations to the strategic reframing of creative outputs, the panel explores how project leaders and creatives can use AI to amplify their strengths rather than replace them. Spoiler: there’s still no shortcut for trust, authenticity, or thoughtful strategy.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Sara Fisher, Sara Doubleday, and Greg Storey on LinkedIn
- Check out Vye and Seer Interactive
- Check out Greg’s book – “Creative Intelligence: Don’t Ask AI, Think With AI”
Navigating a career in project management today means wrestling with more than just Gantt charts and stakeholder standups—it means making high-stakes decisions about your salary, your specialization, and what brings you meaning at work. In this panel episode, Kelsey Alpaio brings together PM thought leaders Ben Chan, Mackenzie Dysart, and Elizabeth Harrin for a candid conversation on how to design your PM career with both pay and purpose in mind.
Together, they unpack fresh data from DPM’s 2025 Salary Guide and tackle some of the most pressing questions PMs are facing right now: Should you specialize or stay a generalist? When do certifications actually help? Is it ever too late to take control of your career? And how do you make confident moves when AI and automation are reshaping the role in real time? This is a jam-packed episode full of tactical tools, honest reflections, and grounded advice for anyone looking to take the reins of their project career.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Ben, Mackenzie, and Elizabeth on LinkedIn
- Check out Thoughtworks and Rebel’s Guide to Project Management
- Organized Chaos Café – Ben’s podcast
- Managing Multiple Projects – Elizabeth’s book
When it comes to getting paid what you’re worth, project managers in 2025 are facing a unique challenge: job switching no longer guarantees a big raise, and most PMs are staying put—even if they feel underpaid. So what now? In this episode, Kelsey Alpaio sits down with Mukhtar Kadiri, Pam Butkowski, and Elaina Martinez to talk real strategies for negotiating a raise where you are—with confidence, clarity, and without burning bridges.
You’ll hear honest takes on why PMs feel undercompensated, how the market has shifted, and what leaders actually want to hear in raise conversations. From mapping your invisible impact to understanding company timing cycles and navigating tough “no’s,” this panel brings practical, actionable insights for anyone ready to make the ask—and get results.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Mukhtar, Pam, and Elaina on LinkedIn
- Check out WorkTipsPro and Horizontal Digital
Navigating job interviews as a project manager can feel like walking through a minefield of unpredictable questions. In this episode of The Retro, Kelsey sits down with Kayla Quijas—a senior PM and certified career coach—to unpack how to tackle curveball questions with poise and purpose. From candy bar hypotheticals to high-stakes stakeholder slip-ups, Kayla shares actionable frameworks that help PMs answer tough questions with clarity, honesty, and a whole lot of confidence.
They dive deep into how interviews aren’t just about your resume—they’re about how you think, lead, and adapt under pressure. Whether you’re pivoting into PM from another field, trying to land your first role, or just looking to sharpen your interview game, this conversation offers the tools to prep smarter, answer authentically, and leave a lasting impression.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Kayla on LinkedIn
- Check out Kayla’s website
There’s no shortage of AI tools for project managers these days—and they can be pretty amazing. But using them? Often a frustrating, disjointed experience. In this episode, Galen Low is joined by Devin Mahoney, CEO and Co-founder of QTalo, to unpack why AI can feel more like a burden than a boost in our day-to-day project work, and how to fix that.
They dive into how AI can truly serve project leaders: from cutting down on context switching to surfacing what actually matters, and building systems that fit into the real workflows of PMs. Devin also shares why privacy matters not just for compliance, but for preserving the creative space we need to do our best work. If you’ve ever felt like AI is both magical and maddening, this one’s for you.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Devin on LinkedIn
- Check out QTalo
Why does time tracking suck—and what can we actually do about it? In this lively and deeply honest panel session, Kelsey Alpaio sits down with agency consultant Marcel Petitpas, PMO leader Kelly Vega, and project operations expert Matthew Fox to get to the root of why time tracking feels so broken. Together, they unpack not just the tactical challenges, but the deeper cultural and strategic dynamics that make time tracking feel like a chore (or worse, a surveillance tool). But this isn’t just a vent session—our panel brings clarity, practical advice, and a few hard truths to help you shift your mindset and your systems.
From rethinking data accuracy and redefining utilization to making smarter tooling choices and harnessing AI (without falling for the hype), this conversation delivers actionable insight for PMs, leaders, and anyone in the messy middle of tracking work. Whether you’re tracking time for billing, planning, or just staying afloat, there’s something here to make it suck a little less—and maybe even become a tool for empowerment.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Kelly, Matthew, and Marcel on LinkedIn
- Check out Parakeeto
Rolling out a new tool or process sounds simple—until you try it. In this episode, Galen Low sits down with Frances Odera Matthews, founder of The Notion Bar, to unpack why change management is so hard, even with the best intentions and the best tools. From shiny object syndrome to culture gaps, they explore why tool adoption often fails and what project leaders can do to set their teams up for long-term success.
Frances shares practical insights from the front lines of Notion implementations, including how phased rollouts, internal champions, and intentional design can make or break adoption. They also dig into the cultural side of change—how open sharing, avoiding silos, and even acknowledging when to rip the band-aid off can help teams navigate tool fatigue and create lasting transformation.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Frances on LinkedIn
- Check out the Notion Bar, The Notion Zeitgeist newsletter, and the Coffee & Oysters podcast
In this episode of The Digital Project Manager podcast, Kelsey Alpaio sits down with Oliver Yarbrough—founder of Not Your Father’s AI and a LinkedIn Learning instructor—to talk about the AI-driven future of project management. With automation creeping into every corner of our workflows, PMs are no longer just task managers; they're becoming AI operators, process optimizers, and digital workforce leaders.
Oliver breaks down what PMs should be doing today to stay ahead: learning to communicate effectively with AI tools, mastering process optimization, and strengthening foundational PM skills. Whether you're just starting to explore AI tools or already dabbling in automation, this episode gives you a roadmap for evolving your skill set and redefining your value as a project manager in an increasingly digital workplace.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Oliver on LinkedIn
- Check out Not Your Father's A.I.
The agency world is undergoing major shifts, with evolving business models, leaner teams, and new demands on project leaders. While disruption can feel overwhelming, it also presents opportunities for growth—if you know how to adapt. As roles blur and responsibilities pile up, resilience and flexibility have never been more essential.
Joining us is Harv Nagra, Head of Brand Communications at Scoro and host of The Handbook: Agency Ops podcast, to break down how operating models are changing and what project managers can do to stay ahead. From navigating uncertainty to leading with a growth mindset, this episode offers actionable insights for anyone facing rapid change in agency life.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Harv on LinkedIn
- Check out Scoro and The Handbook: Agency Ops podcast
- Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World
We’re joined live by Crystal Richards, PMP trainer and founder of MindsparQ, to dive into everything you need to know about passing the challenging Project Management Professional (PMP) exam. With its high failure rate and tough reputation, the PMP remains a highly respected certification that can open significant career doors—but balancing exam prep with work and life can be daunting.
Crystal shares practical strategies to help candidates navigate the exam process with clarity and confidence, drawing on her experience training project managers and her new book, PMP Exam Prep For Dummies. Whether you’re just starting your PMP journey or feeling overwhelmed, this conversation offers valuable tips to help you succeed.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Crystal on LinkedIn
- Check out MindsparQ
Fractional remote job opportunities are growing, offering professionals the chance to break free from the traditional rat race and take on multiple roles, be their own boss, and avoid the transactional nature of full-time work. But how do you get started in this new world of fractional work, and what if it doesn’t work out?
Michael Gold, a fractional project management expert and founder of The Fractional Hub, discusses the growing trend of fractional project management roles. He shares insights on how this model could become just as common as, or even replace, traditional full-time positions in the future, helping you make an informed decision about whether this path is right for you.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Michael on LinkedIn
- Check out The Fractional Hub
Getting laid off as a project manager can feel like more than just a job loss—it brings up uncertainty, self-doubt, and tough career questions. This episode features a live panel with three PMs who’ve been through it and come out stronger, offering real talk and practical advice for navigating career transitions.
Nicolassa Galvez, Thako Harris, and Nadaa Baqui share their personal layoff stories, lessons learned, and what helped them rebuild. From freelancing to career pivots, they offer insights for anyone facing a layoff or looking to future-proof their career in a volatile job market.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Nadaa, Nicolassa, and Thako on LinkedIn
- Check out Chingona Coach, 3MBET, and Skillshare
When project goals feel disconnected from broader business objectives, it can be challenging to stay motivated and on track. You may find yourself questioning the purpose of your work, only to discover that the strategic objective is simply to "build an app." If you're struggling to link your projects to the bigger organizational picture, this episode is for you.
Carsten Ley, an expert in project management and OKRs, shares valuable insights on how to use Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) to align project delivery with overall business strategy. He discusses how integrating OKRs into your project management practice can drive better alignment, measure impact, and keep your team focused on the bigger picture.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Carsten on LinkedIn
- Check out Asia PMO and OKR Asia
Landing a new project manager role is a huge achievement, but before you accept the offer, don’t skip the crucial step of negotiating your salary. Failing to negotiate can cost you millions over your career, yet many find the process intimidating and awkward.
Yonelly Gutierrez, Senior Project Manager at Palo Alto Networks and Founder of Velvet Vision, joins us to share her expert advice on negotiating with confidence. With her experience coaching women into $100K+ project management roles, she offers practical strategies for securing the compensation you deserve without the stress.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Yonelly on LinkedIn
- Check out Palo Alto Networks
AI projects aren’t just another trend—they’re already reshaping workplaces in ways big and small. From HR to finance, employees are integrating AI into daily tasks, often without formal initiatives. Yet many organizations are still struggling to align teams and create a clear strategy for AI adoption. So, how can companies move from scattered, anxiety-driven adoption to a cohesive, strategic approach?
In this episode, host Galen Low sits down with Ron Schmelzer, Global Head of AI Partnerships at PMI, to explore how organizations can better support AI-driven projects. They discuss what it takes to get teams on the same page, manage AI’s impact on workflows, and create a mindset shift that ensures businesses thrive in this new wave of digital transformation.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Ron on LinkedIn
- Check out Project Management Institute
Looking to land a senior project manager role but feeling stuck? You’re not alone. The path to senior PM isn’t always clear, and setbacks can be frustrating. In this episode, we break down what might be holding you back and how to position yourself for that next big opportunity.
Host Kelsey Alpaio sits down with Logan Langin, Senior Project Manager at Sanford Health, to discuss the mindset shifts and strategies that helped him make the leap. With experience running the “30 Days to PM” program, Logan shares practical insights to help you level up your career.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Logan on LinkedIn
- Check out Sanford Health
Thinking about pivoting into project management but feeling lost in a sea of acronyms and conflicting advice? You’re not alone. The path to becoming a PM can seem unclear, with vague skill requirements and misleading job descriptions making it even harder to break in.
Host Galen Low sits down with Barbara Kephart, founder of Projects Pivot, to cut through the confusion. They dive into what it really takes to transition into project management, how to decode industry jargon, and why community support is key to navigating this rewarding career shift.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- The PM Coffee Spot — the community for new and aspiring project people
- Connect with Barbara on LinkedIn
- Check out Projects Pivot
- Projects Practice — learning management system
Breaking into project management can feel overwhelming, but the biggest challenge isn’t lack of experience—it’s learning to translate your skills effectively.
In this episode, host Kelsey Alpaio speaks with Ogaga Johnson, founder and CEO of Verisult, about how professionals can position themselves for their first PM role. Ogaga emphasizes the importance of a strategic job search, focusing on industries where your background provides a natural entry point. Whether you’re transitioning careers or formalizing your PM skills, this episode provides actionable steps to land your first role.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Ogaga on LinkedIn and Instagram
- Check out Verisult
How technical do you really need to be as a technical project manager in 2025? Host Galen Low sits down with Kayla Keizer, Team Lead and Senior Technical PM at Plank, to explore the balance between technical know-how and leadership skills.
They discuss how PMs can thrive without mastering every technology their teams use, and how leaders can foster high-impact project managers without requiring a DevOps degree. Tune in for insights on mentoring, growth, and navigating the evolving role of technical PMs.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Kayla on LinkedIn
- Check out Plank
Can playing The Sims help people build career skills? For Kelsey Alpaio, Executive Editor of The Digital Project Manager and new co-host of the DPM Podcast, the answer is yes. In this episode, we introduce Kelsey and discuss how she’s bringing fresh perspectives on industry trends, career navigation, and professional growth to the DPM community.
Host Galen Low gives listeners a sneak peek into the exciting new directions for the podcast and beyond. From career storytelling to industry insights, get ready for a revamped DPM experience with Kelsey on board!
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Kelsey on LinkedIn
Dealing with a toxic client can drain your team, hurt your business, and feel impossible to escape. But what if the problem isn’t you—it’s them? If you’re stuck in a difficult client relationship and unsure what to do next, this episode is for you.
Host Galen Low is joined by agency expert Melissa Morris to discuss when and how to fire a client, along with strategies for protecting your team and business. Tune in to learn how to navigate tough client dynamics and set your agency up for success.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn
- Check out Agency Authority
- Book a free discovery call with Melissa
Generative AI is everywhere—transforming industries, dominating conversations, and yet, for many, it’s still just a tool for note-taking and meal planning. If you’re a project professional feeling stuck in a GenAI rut, this episode is for you.
Host Galen Low sits down with AI expert Kathleen Walch to explore how project managers can move beyond basic chatbot use, rethink their AI approach, and unlock new career opportunities. Tune in to discover what GenAI truly has to offer beyond prompt engineering.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Kathleen on LinkedIn
- Check out The Project Management Institute and AI Today Podcast
Trust isn’t free—especially when you inherit a project that's completely off the rails. But instead of going in guns blazing, what if you could build trust with authenticity and strategic partnership?
Galen Low sits down with Melissa Morris, founder of Agency Authority, to discuss practical strategies for establishing trust, improving collaboration, and proving your value as a strategic partner. Whether you’re struggling with client rapport or looking to refine your approach, this conversation will give you the tools to strengthen relationships and keep your projects on track.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn
- Check out Agency Authority
- Book a free discovery call with Melissa
Presentation day is here, and it’s not going smoothly—slides are being read off, demos are falling flat, and you’re winging it after forgetting your notes. Stakeholders are disengaged, but the project continues, and more presentations are ahead.
Galen Low chats with presentation expert Renaud Taburiaux about how project managers can help their teams deliver clear, impactful presentations without wasting time preparing. Tune in to learn how to frame your work for executives and ace your next presentation!
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Renaud on LinkedIn
- Check out Presentation Sprint
- Presentation Sprint on Amazon
To some folks, a Project Management Office sounds like a stale concept more than a hotbed of innovation. But in a world where non-PM roles are increasingly expected to deliver projects and emerging tech is aggressively forcing us to change the way we work, the PMO may actually be the key to unlocking the future of project management.
Galen Low is joined by Olivia Montgomery (Associate Principal Analyst at Gartner), Bruno Morgante (Board Member at The PMO Leader), and Lauren Selley (Director of Program Management at Code and Theory) to delve into the challenges faced by PMOs, the importance of dynamic leadership, and the integration of innovative strategies like artificial intelligence to enhance project success.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Olivia, Bruno, & Lauren on LinkedIn
- Check out Gartner, The PMO Leader, and Code and Theory
What sets top-tier project managers apart from everyone else? High-performance project management goes beyond mastering processes and tools; it involves cultivating a blend of adaptability, communication, leadership, and mindset.
Galen Low is joined by Ben Willmott—Founder of The PPM Academy—to explore the key traits that differentiate top-tier project managers from the rest.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Ben on LinkedIn
- Check out The PPM Academy
What do you do when you top out as a project manager? More and more Senior PMs are turning to coaching and consulting. But what's really driving that trend, and do PMs have what it takes to be an entrepreneur?
Galen Low is joined by Stephanie Best—Managing Director at Greannmhar—to delve into the transition from project management to consulting and how ageism and hustle culture are influencing such career choices.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Stephanie on LinkedIn
- Check out Greannmhar
Starting a new role as a project manager can be both exhilarating and daunting, especially in today's unpredictable job market.
Galen Low is joined by Mukhtar Kadiri—Program Director, Career Coach, and PM Recruiter at WorkTipsPro—to share how to successfully navigate the initial phase of a new PM job.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Mukhtar on LinkedIn
- Check out Mukhtar’s YouTube Channel: WorkTipsPro
Your process documentation sucks. Don't worry — so do most people's. It's because it's tedious and manual to create and takes away from the fun parts of work. But wait — couldn't AI help?
Galen Low sat down with Alyson Caffrey (Co-founder of Operations Agency), Gray Mackenzie (Co-founder of ZenPilot), and Brian Kessman (Founder of Lodestar Agency Consulting) to explore whether a healthy culture of AI, automation, and iterative knowledge transfer can get your teams out of process documentation hell.
Resources from this episode:
- Fill out our 2025 salary survey
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Alyson, Brian, and Gray on LinkedIn
- Check out ZenPilot, Operations Agency, and Lodestar Agency Consulting
Getting teams to understand the vision for your project can feel like a game of telephone. Which could be fine... if that didn't lead to organizational chaos, project failure, and team frustration. So what's the solution?
Galen Low chats with Stephanie Best (Managing Director at Greannmhar Consulting) to talk best practices for how executives and project teams can avoid the miscommunications that dilute a project's purpose.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Stephanie on LinkedIn
- Check out Greannmhar
Could your teams be dysfunctional without you even knowing it? And if so, is there anything you can do about it as a project or people leader without throwing the baby out with the bathwater and starting from scratch?
Galen Low is joined by Greg Storey and Brett Harned—Co-Founders of Same Team Partners—to delve into the nuances of team dysfunction and explore strategies to overcome it.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Brett and Greg on LinkedIn
- Check out Same Team Partners
- Download Your Team Work, Reimagined playbook
- Sign up for Brett & Greg's free webinar on Tuesday, December 12th at 12 pm ET
Asking stakeholders to prioritize project scope can lead to fistfights, bruised egos, and a daunting array of multiple "top priorities". But can it also be a way to foster a culture of collaboration and transparency?
Galen Low is joined by James Louttit—Founder and Lead Trainer at Impactful Project Management—to explore the delicate art of prioritization and how to wield it in a way that cuts straight through the politics and directly towards project success.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with James on LinkedIn
- Check out Impactful Project Management
- James's book: “Leading Impactful Teams”
Let’s face it: we’d all have a little more hair on our heads if resourcing our projects wasn’t a weekly ritual fraught with chaos, conflict, and overwhelm. But could a blend of good data, machine learning, and GenAI make resourcing a walk in the park?
Galen Low is joined by Grant Hultgren (Agency Operations Consultant at Parallax), Marcel Petitpas (Co-Founder & CEO at Parakeeto), and Ann Campea (VP of Project Management Operations at TrueSense Marketing) to explore the promises and challenges of incorporating data and AI into resource management.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Grant, Marcel, and Ann on LinkedIn
- Check out Parallax, Parakeeto, and TrueSense Marketing
When your project teams span multiple work cultures and continents, things can get a little more complicated. But with with so many moving parts and sources of pressure, what's the best way to get your internationally-distributed teams working together to reduce stress instead of adding to it?
Galen Low is joined by Yasmina Khelifi (Senior Project Manager) & Mayte Mata Sivera (Head of PMO) to explore some key aspects of effective international collaboration.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Check out this episode’s sponsor: Jotform
- Connect with Mayte and Yasmina on LinkedIn
In the fast-paced world of project management, finding balance between professional ambitions and personal well-being is essential.
Galen Low is joined by Ken Stewart—Change & Delivery Guide and the Author of “Burn That Project Down”—to offer a roadmap to mastering project management without losing oneself.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Ken on LinkedIn
- Check out Ken’s book “Burn That Project Down”
Sorry to say this, but as a project manager you can deliver your project on-time, on-budget, and within scope... and still fail. So is the iron triangle still important? And can PMs influence the impact of their projects beyond it?
Galen Low is joined by Pam Butkowski (SVP of Delivery Management at Hero Digital) & Stephanie Best (Managing Director at Greannmhar) to unpack the importance of looking beyond conventional metrics to redefine what success means in project management.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Pam and Stephanie on LinkedIn
- Check out Greannmhar and Hero Digital
Volunteering has long been an avenue for individuals to give back to their communities, but its impact on professional development, particularly in project management, is a lesser-known benefit.
Galen Low is joined by Yasmina Khelifi (Senior Project Manager) & Mayte Mata Sivera (Head of PMO) to discuss how their volunteer experiences have significantly propelled their careers.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Mayte and Yasmina on LinkedIn
- Get 15% off Mayte & Yasmina's book The Volunteering Journey to Project Leadership
If your plan is to get the proverbial "gold pen" and retire after putting in 45 years at the same agency, you might find yourself working against the odds. But if that's the case, what does it mean to have job security in the agency world?
Galen Low is joined by Max Traylor—The Consultant’s Consultant and Founder of Max Traylor LLC—to delve into the concept of job security and what options are available to agency professionals today.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Max on LinkedIn and X
- Check out Max’s website
- Beers with Max Podcast
- Max’s book: Agency Survival Guide
In an era marked by rapid technological evolution, project managers stand at the forefront, uniquely positioned to harness these changes to deliver strategic value. The burgeoning world of generative AI offers both challenges and opportunities.
Galen Low is joined by Jean Kang (Founder of Path To PM), Ordonna Sargeant (Director of Data Governance at American Express), Mukhtar Kadiri (Program Director at WorkTipsPro) to explore the current landscape and future directions for project managers.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Jean, Mukhtar, and Ordonna on LinkedIn
In today's fast-paced market, mastering the complexities of hybrid project management has become a necessity. Hybrid project management, which blends traditional and agile methodologies, allows for more flexible and efficient project delivery.
Galen Low is joined by Ann Campea—VP of Operations at TrueSense Marketing & Host of The Everyday PM Podcast—to share her wealth of experience from overseeing iconic toy brands at Hasbro to navigating dynamic tech environments at Amazon and Apple.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Ann on LinkedIn
- Check out TrueSense Marketing
- The Everyday PM Podcast
In a digital landscape that's constantly evolving, the role of project managers and other agency professionals is being redefined. It's no longer sufficient to simply manage tasks; the expectation now is to adopt a consultant mindset, one that actively seeks to add value at every turn.
Galen Low is joined by Max Traylor—The Consultant’s Consultant and Founder of Max Traylor LLC—to explore how shifting your perspective from merely completing projects to becoming a trusted advisor can unlock new opportunities, enhance client retention, and significantly grow your career.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Max on LinkedIn and X
- Check out Max’s website
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital project management, rising through the ranks from individual contributor to a director-level role can seem like a daunting but exhilarating climb.
Galen Low is joined by Jessica D'Amato Crosby—Director of Digital Marketing at Vye—to explore her journey and the pivotal lessons she learned along the way.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn and X
- Check out Vye
In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, the role of project managers is constantly being redefined. As we delve deeper into the age of AI, one might wonder how traditional project management skills can coexist and even thrive alongside these technological advancements. Enter emotional intelligence (EQ), often hailed as a project manager’s secret weapon.
Galen Low is joined by Ann Campea—VP of Operations at TrueSense Marketing & Host of The Everyday PM Podcast—to discuss the intersection of AI and EQ in the realm of project management.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Ann on LinkedIn
- Check out TrueSense Marketing
- The Everyday PM Podcast
Volunteering has long been a noble endeavor, but did you know it can also be a game-changer for your career, especially in project management?
Galen Low is joined by Karl Sakas—Agency Advisor at Sakas & Company—to uncover how volunteer work can set you apart in the competitive field of project management.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Karl on LinkedIn
- Check out Sakas & Company
- VolunteerMatch (directory for finding volunteer opportunities)
- Idealist.org (volunteer listings, in additional to full-time jobs)
- Pro bono marketing: 10 guidelines for non-profit clients
In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, the success of any digital product hinges not just on the technology behind it but also on the harmonious collaboration among various teams within an organization.
Galen Low is joined by Jessica D'Amato Crosby—Director of Digital Marketing at Vye—to delve into the increasingly important trend of breaking down the silos between digital marketing teams, sales teams, customer success teams, and many others, to create a unified and seamless customer experience.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn and X
- Check out Vye
- The book Jess mentions is “Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard” by Chip and Dan Heath
In today's rapidly evolving digital world, the ability to effectively facilitate remote and hybrid workshops has become an invaluable skill, particularly for project managers.
Galen Low is joined by Theresa Bailey—Founder of Starfish Synergies—to share actionable tips for facilitating engaging and productive workshops in both remote and hybrid settings.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Theresa on LinkedIn
- Check out Starfish Synergies
In today’s fast-paced business environment, project management is more critical than ever. But should you appoint an existing employee to take on the role or hire a dedicated project manager?
Galen Low is joined by Karl Sakas—Agency Advisor at Sakas & Company—to explore whether deputizing (or appointing) a project manager is a short-term solution or a long-term strategy.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Karl on LinkedIn
- Check out Sakas & Company
- Don't hire "reluctant employees" at your agency
- Unsung heroes: 42 ways your PMs saved your agency this week
- Are project managers "work babysitters"?
- Save $100 on Karl's on-demand "Agency PM 101" training for deputized project managers, with code DPMPODCAST at checkout.
In today’s fast-evolving remote work landscape, fostering team collaboration and togetherness has become paramount.
Galen Low is joined by Theresa Bailey—Founder of Starfish Synergies—to provide invaluable insights into transforming team dynamics, building connections, and creating a safe environment for innovation and productivity.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Theresa on LinkedIn
- Check out Starfish Synergies
Have you ever been part of a project that seemed to be going smoothly until it suddenly derailed due to unclear roles and responsibilities? Or perhaps you've found yourself in a frustrating situation where everyone seems to be pointing fingers, blaming others for not pulling their weight. The RACI matrix, a simple yet powerful tool, can be the antidote to these organizational headaches.
Galen Low is joined by Cassie Solomon—Award-winning Author & the CEO of The New Group Consulting—to delve into the intricacies of RACI, exploring how it can transform the way teams collaborate and achieve their goals.
Resources from this episode:
- Join DPM Membership
- Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
- Connect with Cassie on LinkedIn
- Check out The New Group Consulting
- Growing Pains: Building Sustainably Successful Organizations
- Leading Successful Change: 8 Keys to Making Change Work
- Management Time: Who’s Got the Monkey?
In today's fast-paced business environment, efficient decision-making processes can be the difference between success and failure. Organizations often struggle with bottlenecks and unclear responsibilities, which can hamper progress significantly. The venerable RACI chart, a tool for defining roles and responsibilities, emerges as a beacon of clarity—not just at the team level but also at the enterprise level.
Galen Low is joined by Cassie Solomon—Award-winning Author & the CEO of The New Group Consulting—to explore the transformative potential of RACI.
In today's fast-paced, ever-evolving digital world, agencies are increasingly relying on the flexibility and expertise of contract project managers to navigate complex projects efficiently.
Galen Low is joined by Marissa Taffer—Founder of M. Taffer Consulting—to dive deep into the intricacies of hiring and maximizing the value of contract project managers.
In today’s dynamic world of project management, the intersection of neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and psychological safety is becoming increasingly critical.
Galen Low is joined by Carole Osterweil—Project Troubleshooter, Executive Coach, Author, and founder of Visible Dynamics—to delve into the role of understanding human behavior in achieving project success.
The ever-evolving workplace dynamics, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, have brought forth an array of challenges and opportunities in the field of project management. Organizations are grappling with the question: Can a return-to-office mandate coexist with high project productivity?
Galen Low is joined by Karla Eidem, Regional Managing Director (North America) at Project Management Institute, to shed light on this intricate issue.
Data privacy has transcended beyond mere legal checkboxes into a realm where ethical considerations and user trust define the success of digital projects. With the rapid advancements in technology, the handling of user data has become a complex web of responsibility that project managers cannot afford to overlook.
Galen Low is joined by Mackenzie Dysart, Delivery Principal at Thoughtworks, to give listeners a comprehensive roadmap to navigate the often murky waters of digital privacy.
In the dynamic world of digital project management, the role of the project manager is continually evolving, adapting to the ebbs and flows of the industry's needs. Amidst this evolution, the emergence of informal project managers is a trend that cannot be overlooked.
Galen Low is joined by Bruno Morgante, VP Global Head of PMO at The Adecco Group, to delve deeper into this phenomenon and its implications for the Project Management Office (PMO).
The Agile methodology has undoubtedly revolutionized project management, reshaping the way teams collaborate, deliver value, and embrace change.
Galen Low is joined by Jim Highsmith, co-author of the Agile Manifesto, to discuss the ongoing evolution of Agile principles and their application in today's ever-changing digital landscape.
The art of effective communication within project management cannot be overstated. As the digital world evolves, the role of AI in this domain has become increasingly significant. But can generative AI be trusted to tailor your project status updates?
Galen Low is joined by Devin Mahoney, CEO of QTalo, to unravel the complexities of project communication in the digital age.
In a world that's increasingly governed by complex projects and collaborative efforts, the question arises: why isn't project management being taught in grade schools?
Galen Low is joined by Mark Burnett, CEO of Reasoning With Mark, to introduce a revolutionary idea: integrating project management skills into grade school curricula.
In the rapidly evolving world of project management, methodologies such as Agile and Waterfall have long dominated the discourse. However, the integration of behavioral science into project management practices is carving out a new frontier, promising more effective and human-centered methodologies.
Galen Low is joined by Dr. Josh Ramirez—CEO of The Institute for Neuro & Behavioral Project Management—to talk about the role of behavioral science in project management, how it impacts our beloved project methodologies, and why it could become an important part of the future of project management.
What is the role of a PMO in a modern organization, and why do people think that it's only administrative?
Galen Low is joined by Olivia Montgomery—Senior Analyst at Capterra—to discover how the often-misunderstood role of PMOs is revolutionizing the business world.
How can Generative AI enhance your team's feedback process?
Galen Low is joined by Projjal Ghatak—CEO and Founder of OnLoop—to unlock the secrets to elevating your team's performance through the power of Generative AI in feedback delivery.
Is Notion fit for managing complex digital projects that involve larger organizations?
Galen Low is joined by Frances Odera Matthews—Founder of The Notion Bar—to shed light on some of the biggest mistakes people make when configuring and driving adoption around Notion and other project management tools.
Ever wondered how to climb the professional ladder from intern to Senior Vice President?
Pam Butkowski, Senior Vice President of Delivery Management at Hero Digital, joins us to unravel career trajectories for digital project managers.
Whether you're contemplating a shift in roles, looking to maximize your impact as a PM, or simply seeking inspiration for your professional journey, this episode is charged with strategies to steer you towards success. Join us, and let's map out the future of your digital project management career together.
In the ever-evolving field of project management, professionals often find themselves considering the best path to success. Should they specialize in a specific area or gain a diverse range of experiences?
Galen Low is joined by Jean Kang—Sr. Program Manager at Figma & Founder of Path To PM—to talk about her journey of career pivots and how each pivot contributed to her current role.
Have you ever looked back at the twists and turns of your career path and wondered how each step led you to where you are today?
Our guest, Ryan Gilbreath, joins us to share his journey to where he is today.
From the childhood dream of becoming an archaeologist to beat-making in college, Ryan's story is a great reminder of how our early passions often pave the way for future successes.
What’s the difference between managing projects and leading projects?
Galen Low is joined by Tracy Hennessey and Pam Butkowski—the VP and SVP of Delivery Management at Hero Digital—to talk about career paths for project managers, specifically what options lie beyond the Senior Project Manager role, what it takes to get there, and what people don’t tell you about how it changes your professional life when you do get there.
Ever found yourself struggling in a toxic corporate culture? You're not alone.
Join us as we share our experiences navigating the choppy waters of project management and how to adapt, survive, and thrive.
Our guest, Karen Chong, is a seasoned digital project manager and a respected DPM community member. With her background in psychology, she brings a unique perspective to our conversation—sharing her journey from understanding human behavior in a clinical setting to implementing it in project management.
Karen offers insightful advice on the art of dealing with cross-cultural teams and the hiccups that language barriers can create, along with the importance of adapting project management to fit the team and project at hand.
Ever imagined a world where AI liberates us from mundane tasks, freeing us to channel our unique skills and creativity?
Galen Low is joined by Kelli Korducki—Independent Journalist (wrote for The Atlantic, The New York Times and NYT Magazine, Insider, The Guardian, and more)—to talk about the use of AI tools and large language models in digital industries.
Ever wondered what it takes to lead a team and grow a department into a $1.7 million powerhouse?
Tune in as we glean insights from the inspiring journey of Christina Avino—an associate director of project management at Seer Interactive—whose strategies and experiences have helped her shape her PM department into a lucrative business arm. From her humble beginnings as a co-op student at a marketing agency, she’s honed key project management skills and attributes. She shares with us what makes a great project manager, the importance of technical know-how, and the number one skill that all PMs must master.
What does it really mean to be the "popular" PM?
Galen Low is joined by Thako Harris—a seasoned agency leader and VP of Operations at Skully Rebels—to talk about what it means to be the project manager that everyone wants to work with, and how it's got way more to do with organizational politics than it does just minding the triple constraint.
In the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of digital marketing, staying ahead of the curve is both a challenge and a necessity.
Galen Low is joined by Tammy Valentine—President of LuckyTamm Digital Marketing—to talk about what it takes for boutique agencies to keep pace with the breakneck speed of digital marketing.
Imagine landing in the challenging world of project management and finding a community that not only supports but fuels your professional growth.
Keegan McCready, has harnessed the power of communities like the DPM and the local PMI chapter to transform his career journey. Keegan's story is the living proof of the impact of a supportive community network that helped him not just survive a layoff but thrive in unexpected ways.
Listen in to hear Keegan's experiences of building relationships, solving complex problems, and scaling Asana across an organization with the collective wisdom of his peers.
What if we told you that purpose-driven Project Management Offices (PMOs) could dramatically transform your company's productivity and bottom line?
That's exactly what we're unpacking today with Joe Pusz—Founder and President of The PMO Squad. With years of experience and a passion for project management, Joe shares his journey from corporate project manager to PMO guru, explaining why he is on a mission to help companies identify and harness the power of their PMOs.
Tune in to explore the challenges and solutions for PMOs in leadership development programs, and the potential of training budgets to fund professional coaching.
Ever wondered how being part of various online communities can provide value to your career?
Nicolassa Galvez, CEO and Founder of Chingona Coach, offered us a wealth of insights on this topic as she shared her approach to managing time and contributions within these digital realms and introduced the unique concept of anti-career coaching.
She shared how diverse communities—ranging from anti-career coaching to Latinas growing their businesses—provide her with mentorship, a sounding board, and an invaluable resource pool.
This episode is a treasure trove for anyone looking to grasp the power of professional communities and the realities of a project management career.
Ever wonder why agencies grapple with the transition from traditional project management to Agile methodologies?
Wonder no more! Dave Prior—Certified Scrum Trainer and Agile thought leader—shares how to implement Agile in an agency context. Drawing from his experience in a New York digital agency, Dave dives into the hurdles around adopting Agile and how past failures can lead to skepticism towards this methodology.
Ready to tackle the project changes that inevitably come up? Want to understand how to effectively manage underperformance within your team?
Our seasoned panel of Digital Project Management professionals — Pam Butkowski, Sally Shaughnessy, & Patrice Embry — share their tried-and-tested strategies to navigate these situations with poise and effectiveness. They'll guide you through scenarios such as clients adding deliverables, new clients rotating into a project team, and underperforming team members. You'll discover the power of leading with empathy, advocating for your project, and understanding the cause and effect of changes.
Learn to navigate your next project retrospective with ease!
Galen Low is joined by Payson Hall—Principal Consultant at Catalysis Group—to talk about project retrospectives: how to run them effectively and how to ensure that the lessons you capture in your retrospectives actually translate into improvements for future projects.
Get ready to elevate your project management game as we sit down with Melody MacKeand, a Principal Consultant for Partner Enablement at Teamwork. With a career spanning from project coordinator to PM program manager and portfolio manager, Melody's journey is studded with insights and invaluable lessons. She spills the beans on her unique career trajectory, influenced by her parents' roles as project managers and fueled by her pursuit of relevant certifications. Listen in as Melody lifts the curtain on the vital skills every PM should hone, unveils the secrets behind her successful transition from agency to corporate roles, and shares the sage advice she'd impart to her younger self.
Ever thought about making yourself redundant to supercharge your career?
Galen Low is joined by Alyson Caffrey—Owner and Operator at Operations Agency and Master of Maternity Leave—to talk about making yourself redundant and how that might be the best thing you can actually do for your professional career.
"What do you want to be?" It's the age-old question. And, to help you answer this question for yourself, we're sharing real stories of project managers and how they navigated their career journey to get to where they are today.
In this episode, Michael Mordak is joined by Sara Fisher—Director of Project Management—to talk about her passion for both graphic design and accounting and how she accidentally fell into a role where she can combine her many passions into one.
Struggling with the facilitation aspect of your role as a project manager?
Galen Low is joined by Alice Jakins—Founder & Owner of Getting Digital Done—to talk about the reasons why being a good facilitator is one of the most important superhero skills you can hone as a project manager in 2023, and what you can do to get better at it.
DPM expert & long-time community member Robyn Birkedal shares about the journey that took her from rebellious student to insertion order faxer and eventually to Digital Project Manager.
Galen Low is joined by Joe Ateya—Lead Software Advisor at SoftwareSelect—to talk about project management software and the journey that nearly every organization faces to get from sustained pain to sustainable efficacy through tools and technology.
How can you become the best PM you can be?
In this episode, host Michael Mordak is joined by Matthew Fox—Independent Consultant—to talk about how community has impacted his professional career and why you should definitely get involved in adventure racing.
Martin Gelb & Bill Moroz share how their team helped their government spin up an innovative, purpose-built, blockchain-based intelligent supply chain in a matter of months to ensure COVID-19 vaccines were delivered safely and within tolerances across a massive geographical area.
Michael Mordak is joined by Patrice Embry—Freelance Project Manager & Certified Scrum Master—to talk about how community has impacted her professional career and helped her build her own brand as a freelance project manager.
Galen Low is joined by Michael Mordak—Community Producer at The Digital Project Manager—to announce a new podcast series—The Spotlight Series—about real digital project managers and their stories. Michael shares how this new series will spark new ideas, shed light on the inner workings of our industry, and provide a truly human perspective to your own journey.
Galen Low is joined by Barbara Kephart—Founder of Projects Pivot—to talk about the "project managers" that don't yet know they're project managers and how businesses can identify and groom individuals like these to become top performers in their project management practice.
Galen Low is joined by Natasha Golinsky—Founder and Lead Technical Project Manager at On Purpose Projects—to talk about how you can build a loyal, high-performing team from an otherwise disparate, rag-tag group of remote contractors.
Galen Low is joined by Simon Severino—CEO & Founder of Strategy Sprints—to break down the processes behind an agile business and how you can make agile strategy a reality for your own.
Galen Low is joined by Sarah Hoban—Senior Director, Program Management Office at Aura—to explore how quiet quitting might actually just be healthy boundary-setting, and what that means for employers, teams, project managers, and the future of work.
Galen Low is joined by Kim Essendrup—CEO and Co-Founder of RAIDLOG.com—to talk about RAID logs and how to integrate them into your modern project workflow.
Galen Low is joined by Crystal Richards—Principal & Owner of MindsparQ—to highlight what skills a PMP certification doesn't necessarily teach you, how to fill those gaps through professional development, and what the future holds for PMI and the PMP designation.
Galen Low is joined by Crystal Richards—Principal & Owner of MindsparQ—to talk about what it means to become a certified project management professional, dispelling common misconceptions about the PMP, and digging in to some of the often overlooked advantages of certification.
Galen Low is joined by Michelle Watkins—Founder & Managing Partner at Global PMO Partners—to talk about project portfolio management, how to optimize it, and how to get executive buy-in for investing in a tool that helps your projects and businesses run better.
Galen Low is joined by Jen Dary—a leadership coach, speaker, and founder of Plucky—to talk about those crucial but otherwise adjacent and invisible skills that separate the great project managers from the rest of the pack.
Galen Low is joined by Cassie Solomon—an organizational change and digital transformation leader and author of “Leading Successful Change: 8 Keys To Making Change Work”—to talk about roles and responsibilities and whether a good old RACI chart is still an effective way to achieve clarity on who does what within your team and across your organization.
Galen Low is joined by Jon Brombley—Product And Operations Leader at Container Exchange Services—to share his experiences with rapid, relentless change and how he found a way to thrive within it.
Galen Low is joined by Olivia Montgomery—champion of the social sciences, a former PMO director, and a published thought leader—to talk about strategic planning and whether project management has a place at the table.
Galen Low is joined by Ronald Schmelzer and Kathleen Walch—the managing partners and lead analysts behind Cognilytica, and the hosts of AI Today—to lift the lid on why AI projects fail and why responsible project management is so important to the success of artificial intelligence.
Galen Low is joined by Nick Wilkinson—the Client Partnerships Manager at Steamclock Software—to talk about the tension between business development teams and project delivery teams and how to make that a healthy tension that pushes your organization forward instead of creating drag.
Galen Low is joined by Melody MacKeand—a platform rollout specialist and change management champion—to talk through the change management process and how project managers can benefit from developing a change mindset.
Galen Low is joined by Jeff Chamberlain—a seasoned IT project management consultant—to tell us what’s different about getting a job as a PM today and shares his tips on how to get yourself noticed.
Galen Low is joined by Fred Fowler—a Level 3 certified Scrum master who has published multiple books on the Scrum methodology—to teach us how to stop measuring busyness and start measuring outcomes.
Galen Low is joined by Elizabeth Harrin—an award-winning blogger and author of several books about project and change management—to break down the five tips for managing multiple projects effectively so you can stop sacrificing your evenings and weekends.
Get $200 off our "Mastering Digital Project Management" certification course. Just use the promo code “DPMPODCAST”. Class begins Sep 6th.
Galen Low is joined by Christian Banach—an agency veteran and fierce entrepreneur who grew his own agency into 7-figure revenue—to explain why having a business development mindset can be a game changer for project managers and walks us through his proven framework.
Get $200 off our "Mastering Digital Project Management" certification course. Just use the promo code “DPMPODCAST”. Class begins Sep 6th.
Galen Low is joined by Jesse Fewell—Founder of Fewell Innovation—shares his story of contributing to the 7th edition of PMI’s Project Management Body of Knowledge and discusses the implications of the trends in project management that it reflects.
Get $200 off our "Mastering Digital Project Management" certification course. Just use the promo code “DPMPODCAST”. Class begins Sep 6th.
Galen Low is joined by Gray Mackenzie, Co-Founder of ZenPilot, to talk about project management software, whether or not you really need it, and things to avoid when selecting the right tool for your team.
Galen Low is joined by Brett Harned, Digital PM Consultant and Founder of The Digital PM Summit, to dive into two questions we get all the time: what is digital project management, and how is it different from other types of project management?
Galen Low is joined by Courtney Johnston, the Director of Community Engagement at The Digital Project Manager, to talk about why keeping humans at the center of digital project management is so important and what results you can expect if you do it right.
Galen Low is joined by Bill Moroz, Senior Project Manager at WMA Inc., to break down the most common warning signs that your transformation is in jeopardy and arm you with practical tips on how to respond accordingly to keep the momentum going.
Broken team workflows got you tearing your hair out? Join our free webinar on June 1st.
You’ll learn how to design workflows that maximize team productivity, take advantage of low-code solutions to support process pivots, and create an adaptable playbook that helps you embrace change, not dread it.
Reserve your seat today! thedigitalprojectmanager.com/june22webinar
Galen Low is joined by Sarah Hoban, Lead Program Manager at Gemini, to dive deep into the role of the program manager in creating a framework for people-centric change, and how organizations can support that role to achieve healthy, sustainable growth.
Galen Low is joined by Olivia Montgomery, an Associate Principal Analyst at Capterra, to break down some of the most effective strategies for making the demo phase of your software selection process heaps more relevant to your organization’s specific needs.
Galen Low is joined by Tim Creasey, CIO of Procsi, to explore ways that project managers and leadership teams can collaborate to give micro-innovations a seat at the table for more macro-level changes and how that can help a business thrive.
Galen Low is joined by Alyson Caffrey, CEO of Operations Agency, to unpack exactly how to find that perfect interlock between ops team members and project managers to grow the business in a way that everyone on the team can benefit from.
Galen Low is joined by Julia Rajic, the Senior Vice President of Operations at No Fixed Address Inc. to discuss the various career paths of a digital PM, how PMO leaders can support their teams’ professional growth, and whether being a digital PM can get you into the C-suite.
Galen Low is joined by Julia Ryzhkova, the Product Manager at Railsware to discuss how one organization is successfully building complex software solutions using distributed, self-managing squads and what that means for digital project management at large.
Galen Low is joined by Dharma Mehta, the Director of Program Management at Roku. Dharma shines a light on the impact an Enterprise Program Manager can have based on his career working in some of Silicon Valley’s most influential companies. Listen to learn the secrets of a high-performing enterprise delivery team.
Galen Low is joined by Olivia Montgomery, a Senior Analyst at Capterra. She shares how her blend of PM skill and background in social sciences helps her navigate personalities within IT projects. Listen to learn how psychology can make you a better PM.
Galen Low is joined by Sarah Hoban, a project manager, product manager, and strategy consultant with 10+ years of experience leading cross-functional teams of engineers and business analysts to execute high-risk multi-million dollar projects. Listen to learn how DPMs are poised to influence the future of work.
Galen Low is joined by Shashwati Roy, a project manager by profession. She completed her Masters's in Statistics and has worked in the IT Industry ever since. She has extensive experience in the areas of Quality, Release, and Project Management. Listen to learn how to talk about risk and have every one listen.
Galen Low is joined by Pam Butkowski, VP of Delivery Management at Hero Digital. She’s spent the majority of her career in client-facing organizations leading digital project management teams at organizations including The Nerdery, Wunderman Thompson, and AIM Consulting. Listen to learn how to make your value visible as an agency project manager.
Galen Low is joined by Alexa Alfonso, DPM Expert and Manager of Client Engagement at The Nerdery. In her previous role as Director of Growth at Crema, Alexa made content creation a mandatory part of everyone's job. Listen to how she did it, what challenges she faced, and what impact it’s had on the team.
Galen Low is joined by Bentzy Goldman, Founder, and CEO of Perflo, an innovative and fully distributed startup that helps project teams and their leaders stay aligned and collectively find ways of continuously improving team performance. Listen to learn how to leverage people data to run high-performance project teams.
Galen Low is joined by Samantha Schak, founder of PM with Purpose which helps individuals and companies empower their project managers to unlock their full potential. As for side projects, Samantha produces a mental health podcast, But Have You Considered Therapy? Listen to learn how to create a psychologically safe team environment and why it matters.
Galen Low is joined by Sally Shaughnessy, Director of Project Management at Aten Design Group, a digital agency based in Denver, Colorado, delivering full-service web projects for the public sector and non-profit clients. Listen to learn how to get the raise or promotion you know you’ve earned.
Galen Low is joined by Laura Lussier, a lead technical project manager at 10up where she leveraged scrum agile methodologies to deliver large-scale digital content management projects. Listen as they share some meeting strategies and tips on how to navigate complex and politicized stakeholder environments.
Galen Low is joined by John Furneaux, CEO and co-founder of Hive to discuss John's recent article on how to keep meetings productive, collaborative, and clear so that you move the ball forward on your project every time.
Here's a link to John's article on The Digital Project Manager: https://thedigitalprojectmanager.com/bad-meetings-kill-good-projects-survivor-guide/
Galen Low is joined by Candice Wyatt, director of project management at Red Door Interactive.
Candice is a veteran delivery leader in both digital solution development and omnichannel brand communications. She has worked with brands including WD 40, Titleist, Bosch, Intuit, and Asics. In her spare time, she's also a writer and a proud supporter of girls in tech.
Tune in as they discuss whether project management certifications are still valuable and how you can leverage them to get your maximum return on investments.
Galen Low is joined by Agile delivery champion, Bill Moroz where they break down how to leverage enterprise data, to celebrate the success of your project and build long-lasting trust with your stakeholders and your team.
Galen Low chats with Marcel Petitpas, CEO of Parakeeto, a tool that makes sense of historical data to help produce estimates for agencies and in-house teams alike. Tune in to learn about the qualitative side of data-driven estimation and how you can build a culture of data-driven estimation to avoid unique snowflake situations.
Ben Aston is joined by Lee Goff, Digital Agency Coach, Automation Consultant and Founder of MarketingAgencyCoach.com. Listen as they share tips and tricks on developing an effective sales systems to convert leads to new business for your agency.
Learn tips and tricks for humanizing your team resourcing process and boost long-term culture with agency operations guru, Morgan Megannety.
Learn to hire and grow DPMs who are technical enough to own complex projects with VP, Professional Services at Oomph, Matthew O’Bryant.
Learn how to use project milestones to empower teams, drive product-market fit, and build trust with innovator and TCGen founder John Carter.
Calling herself a "professional project untangler", Kim Wasson sums up years of experience consulting with teams in program management, project management, process management, and quality assurance in this podcast episode.
Kim has developed deep expertise in software development methodologies and agile processes—and she has witnessed the impact of socially intelligent teams time and time again.
In this episode, Kim explains what social intelligence is, why it's important, and practical examples showing how to use socially intelligent practices as a project manager.
Learn how to maximize your team's time by creating workflows that streamline your project processes from Unito Founder and CEO Marc Boscher.
How to bridge the gap between exploration and launch? Douglas Ferguson, entrepreneur and human-centered technologist, gives a 6 step plan to follow after a design sprint so you can release something into the wild.
Learn from agile coacher, speaker, and author Jeff Gothelf about working backwards to go forward with less risk and more confidence in your projects.
Create an agile framework for your org—learn from David Bishop, technologist, consultant, entrepreneur, and author of a book on a novel concept called "Metagility".
Discover how to reduce complexity and confusion by breaking down your projects into bite-sized pieces that everyone can understand.
Discover why scope statements will save your (project) bacon. Learn how to write bullet-proof scope statements, and use them in your projects.
What does it take to go from manager to leader? Hear from Susanne Madsen, internationally recognized leadership coach and consultant.
Do you ever think to yourself, there must be a better way of doing this? Why does this project have to be so painful? The good news is there probably is a better way, and your curiosity might just be the catalyst for making change happen.
Today I'm joined by Dr. Diane Hamilton. the Founder and CEO of Tonerra and Co-Founder of DIMA Innovations, nationally syndicated radio host, keynote speaker, author, and the former MBA Program Chair at the Forbes School of Business. Her groundbreaking work in the area of curiosity helps organizations improve innovation, engagement, and productivity—and today, she's sharing with us her tips for becoming more curious in order to transform the way we work.
If you, like me, are nervous to get your team in front of clients, keep listening: we'll talk about the benefits of client-facing teams and how you, as a project manager, can help pull it off.
Whether you're moving in, out, or across project management, career transition can be incredibly difficult. Today, I'm joined by Eric Wright, military vet, doctor of business, keynote speaker, coach, and founder of Vets2PM and the Veteran Project Management Mentor Alliance. He met his fair share of career transition hurdles, so now he's helping others and talking about how other people can make more successful transitions in their careers.
In this episode, CEO and Co-founder of Kanbanize Dimitar Karaivanov shares his expertise on how to become more agile through a kanban approach.
Tired of working hard on a project only to have sneaky bugs get in the way at the final UAT? In this episode, I'm joined with DPM expert and product coach Michael Luchen where we discuss the power of a quality management plan in order to get things done right and improve product and process.
Looking to grow your PM toolkit and improve processes and efficiency within projects? In today's episode, I'm joined with Sally Woolston where we discuss how we can develop more efficient processes, choose the right tools for our projects, and roll them out across the organization.
In this episode, Antonio Nieto-Rodriguez—author of “The Project Revolution”, "Lead Successful Projects" and “The Focused Organization”—tells the story of project-based work through the centuries. This perspective puts the role of project managers in a new light, showing how projects, the universal model of collaboration, are the driving force behind the major accomplishments in our civilization.
It's one thing to learn risk management theory, but how do you actually manage risk in real life? In this episode, Kiron Bondale shares his expertise and insights on project risk management strategies and lessons-learned from his years of experience.
There's no comparing when it comes to leadership and management. They're both very important. And there isn't one right way of doing either. In this episode, Rebecca Germond explains the difference between managing and leading and how to utilize the traits of both to become a rockstar PM.
What is the most valuable asset any project manager can have? Trust. In this episode, I talk with Mike Clayton, author of 14 print books on project management, about the components of trust—credibility, reliability, intimacy—and how to earn the trust of your colleagues and clients.
An interview with Rich Butkevic, PMP and CSM, about how things fall through the cracks on a corporate website projects so you can prevent them from happening in yours!
In this episode, we tackle the golden question: how do you scale agile teams and organizations? Following up on his article on "The Hard Truth About Scalability", Software Architect, Programmer, Coach, and Consultant Giovanni Asproni talks about the pitfalls of scaling agile—and how to avoid them.
Following her article on How To Write An Employee Handbook, PMP certified project/program manager and strategy consultant Sarah Hoban shares her thoughts on how we as project managers can help onboard new employees the right way.
A must-listen episode for anyone in account or project management who finds themselves stuck in a perpetual cycle of chasing down clients for files and assets. We talk with James Rose, Co-Founder of Content Snare, a tool designed to help agencies get the right files from clients, on time, and in the right format. Yes, please!
There is no one-size-fits-all management style that works. In this podcast, we dig into the good and the bad of various management styles: Results-based, Democratic, Transformational, Servant Leadership, Transactional. We talk about how personality plays into it, and which styles have worked best for us—and why.
How do you give useful feedback to people on your team, even when you don’t have domain expertise? Do you embrace the feedback process, or run from it? Today, we chat with Ryan Schaefer, a digital agency PM who’s worked with brands like Dole Foods and Disney, as he explains how to give great feedback that’ll help your teams deliver better work and keep your projects on track.
Pick the brains of Tomislav Car, the CEO at Infinum, an independent software design and development agency that Tom co-founded while a college student. He went on to create Productive, a web-based agency management tool built to fix the problems his own agency was then experiencing. Learn about managing a profitable agency and using tools to be more productive from a Founder and CEO with a deep understanding of how agencies really work.
In this episode, we join Kelly Suter (as of her last episode, she was in a Technical PM role; now she’s an Executive Producer at Mirum agency) to talk about stakeholder management. Learn her expert tips for managing various types of stakeholders—clients, technical stakeholders, executives, and more.
A project objective describes the “what” of your project. But a well-defined project objective does so much more—it wraps your deadline, your KPIs, and your process all into one guiding statement. Listen to PMP and CSM certified Mackenzie Dysart as she talks about how to write objectives that truly guide your projects.
Learn about agile-based contracts from Tucker Sauer-Pivonka, Director of Product Management at an agency that uses something called a “Duration & Price” contract. He dives into his DPM Case Study to talk about why this contract works for their agency and the practicalities of implementing it with clients.
Ever managed a super short project? Learn real-life tips for short projects in this episode, where PM Jenna Trunzo discusses the case study she conducted after managing a 2-week project. Learn what worked, and why—and what she had to change in order to deliver a project within such a short time frame.
Feeling strung out? Isolated? Indifferent? In this DPM podcast, we take a pause to talk about an important topic for digital workers: burnout. Join Lynn Winters as she shares her burnout stories and gives tips for identifying and recovering from burnout.
Get the scoop on all the latest from The Digital Project Manager in February 2019—new case studies, podcasts, and articles to help you deliver better projects!
Building a web portal? In this episode, Rebecca Germond (Director of Client Services at FCV) dives into the tools, processes, and day-to-day challenges specific to managing a portal build. Ace your web portal build as you learn from her team’s real-life mistakes and success stories.
How can project managers work better with business development and sales in order to win more projects that your agency can successfully deliver? Find out in this interview with agency growth consultant Peter Levitan, who has owned his own shop, worked with clients like Nike and Saatchi & Saatchi, and has bought and sold three ad agencies.
Do you feel like you have to prove your worth as a project manager? In this episode, PMs Ben Aston and Tucker Sauer-Pivonka make the case for project managers, talking about why the PM role is important and how to deal with negative views from various stakeholders on a project.
In this episode, PM Suze Haworth shares insight for new PMs, talking about what project managers do, how to build the right skills for the role, how to prepare for a project manager interview, and where you can plan to take your career.
Are you starting your projects off on the right foot and giving them the best chances for success? Project beginnings can be ambiguous and confusing—in this episode, Suze Haworth shows us her approach for getting clarity, setting expectations, and making sure the bases are covered, before the project is underway.
Planning a vacation? In order to step away from work without having to answer emails during your time off, you need a successful project handoff. In this episode, PM Mackenzie Dysart walks you through the steps to make project transitions a breeze so you can enjoy your vacation and ensure you don’t return to chaos!
When requirements are too loose, your results are undefined and unpredictable. Too tight, and you end up with blind spots. In this episode, PM expert Kelly Suter tell us how to nail the requirements gathering process so your clients know what’s being delivered and your teams know exactly what they’re delivering.
If you ask just about any PM how their work is going, how do you think they'll respond? 'Sorry, I've got no time to talk right now, I'm totally slammed! Maybe we can touch base next week? '
My own experience of PM'ing is that it's a demanding role, we carry the responsibility of delivering a project to our best ability and we desperately want our projects to succeed. So we run around as though our pants were on fire, trying to herd cats, and doing things that we think will make our project succeed. But is our busyness really helping deliver a better project? Is it really helping our team, and our client? Maybe, but often, it's not. So what's the solution? All will be revealed in today's podcast as we talk about ways that we can be less busy, but more productive.
Scope creep can be very costly and very hard to identify—and, luckily, very manageable. In this episode, we talk about scope creep, what causes it, and ways to manage scope creep with Suze Haworth, a Senior Digital Project Manager with over a decade worth of experience in web builds, social campaigns, and digital media.
How do you draw the line between project management and becoming everyone else’s personal admin? As a PM, do you find yourself doing the “project dirty work?” In this episode, PM expert Patrice Embry dishes out valuable advice for PMs who suspect that they’re taking on too much admin work and want to get back to doing what they do best—being a PM!
“Oh, I love being managed!”, said no one ever. How do we manage our teams effectively without being micromanager? How do we manage agile teams who don’t want to be managed? In this episode, Sarah Hoban, a PMP-certified Project and Program Manager, talks about how to do your job effectively as a project manager on the sly.
Are you delivering projects on budget, on time, and in scope? You want your team to be able to hit their milestones—and it’s your job to guide the process with project controls. In today’s DPM podcast with project manager expert Maik Stettner you’ll learn how to use project control documents like status reports and RAID logs in order to keep your projects on track.
Triumph over the contracting madness: Alexa Huston explains how an agile contract can benefit your project—and how to get buy-in from clients. This episode offers welcome advice for anyone struggling with the awkward space between fixed scope and agile projects, discussing the challenges, benefits, and drawbacks of working with different types of agile contracts.
If we don't end our projects right, we can end up going over budget, delivering late, annoying our team, and the client. Ben chats with Patrice to discuss how we can end projects better with a checklist of what to do, and what not to do.
Leading remote teams can be tough - but is it because our teams suck, or because we're not leading our remote teams well? Find out as Ben talks to Wayne, simple rules you can apply to be a better remote leader.
One way to do optimize your agile approach is to make your meetings or ceremonies more effective. Ben Aston talks to Alexa Huston about sprint planning, daily standups, sprint reviews and sprint retrospectives to give you the inside track on how you can do them better.
Sometimes projects go off the rails simply because we jump into them too fast. Ben Aston talks to Maik Stettner about how we can use a project initiation document, or project brief to get everyone on the same page at the start of the project to make project kickoffs more effective.
Projects are tricky often because we're working with teams that can be inconsistent, egotistical, and unreliable. So how on earth do we manage a project when we've got all that to contend with along with delivering the project? Ben Aston talks to Suze Haworth to discuss how we can use RACI charts to clearly define roles and responsibilities, stop things falling through the cracks, and prevent misunderstandings on our projects.
Are you an average project manager or one that's destined for greatness? The difference is not so much about what you do, it's all about how you do it. Ben Aston talks to Patrice Embry to discuss how we can take those everyday responsibilities of a project manager and do them better. Find out what you should really be doing to separate yourself from the pack, and accelerate your PM career.
If you've ever got yourself in a pickle on your projects because you didn't have written evidence of your discussions with your clients, then this episode is for you! Ben Aston talks to Robyn Reynolds about the often forgotten status report and how they can save your bacon. Find out what you should put in it, how you can make them less of a pain to create and make them useful for you, the client and your project team.
We all know communication is a massively important part of our project manager role. But what are the tools we can use to be better at it? One of them is a communications plan. Ben talks to Natalie about how you can use a communication plan to manage expectations better - keep listening to find out how you can stop clients badgering you for information, and get the things you need from your clients!
Do you feel like your team is making the same mistakes over and over again? It's probably because they are - and it's probably because you're not helping them change! Ben and Alexa talk about how we can use sprint retrospectives to highlight opportunities for change, generate process improvements, and move the team in the right direction. Listen to discover some practical applications to making sprint retrospectives as productive as possible.
Being productive isn't about doing more, it's about being smarter. Ben talks to Tucker to discuss how - the time management hacks we can use to be (nearly) as productive as Beyoncé! Listen up for for really practical tips and simple hacks that are going to save you stacks of time and get you back on top of your PM game.
Starting new projects can be incredibly daunting, particularly if you're working on a new client, new in the agency, or on the receiving end of a shoddy handover. Ben Aston talks to Joanna Leigh Simon to discuss the questions to ask about the project plan, team, client and work to get your bearings and get a project in order. Listen up to learn how you can make your own project onboarding experience a whole lot less stressful.
As project managers, we're in the business of managing teams. But are we managing them, and leading them well? Ben Aston chats with Karl Sakas, author of, 'Made To Lead', to discuss how can we lead our teams be more effective, cast vision better, and manage with strategies that are effective for delivery.
Project managers are masters of getting stuff done. But what are the tricks for getting more stuff done, better? Ben Aston chats with Cédric Waldburger, founder of SendTask, to discuss everything from crypto currencies to founding companies, and how we can get more done by making our lives simpler.
Are you actually good at what do you do? Deep down, do you sometimes wonder if you're actually a project manager charlatan, or in the wrong career altogether? Ben Aston chats with Lina Calin to discuss how we can know if we're really doing a good job of this project management thing.
The pressure to do the right thing and be seen to do the right thing is immense. But should we be doing all those project management things, all the time? Ben Aston talks to Patrice Embry to discuss how you can save yourself time by cutting the extraneous things from your PM routine.
Beyond managing projects, how can we use our emotional intelligence to be project leaders? Ben Aston talks to Colin Ellis, author of The Conscious Project Leader to discuss building a positive project culture and leading our projects so that our teams are engaged and motivated to succeed.
Ben Aston and Robyn Reynolds introduce an anonymous advice column for digital PM's to ask awkward questions and share their own stories of managing tricky situations in the life as a digital project manager.
Ben discusses the life of a 'remoter' project manager with Natalie Semczuk, and her new DPM(ish) newsletter. After a tragic internet malfunction, the conversation pivots to unpacking typical project problem areas, why and how it's important to document lessons learned, and what to do with those lessons, to stop making the same mistakes.
How you can make Scrum work in an agency, and how do you make any process change effectively? In this podcast, Ben Aston talks to Alexa Huston about her introduction of Scrum at the agency Crema and you can make process changes with your team and tools work for everyone.
The relationship between a project manager and their development team can often be a tricky one - so how can we make it better? Kelly Suter joins Ben Aston to discuss techniques you can use to build a better dynamic with your development team and tools she's using to run projects.
Solid relationships are crucial to the success of projects - but how do you put that into practice? Lina Calin joins Ben Aston to discuss the techniques you can use to build a stronger, more dynamic and successful team.
Will our jobs as project managers be taken over by artificial intelligent PM bots? Discover in this podcast with Dennis Kayser from Forecast.it and learn about how they're using artificial intelligence and machine learning to help project managers make better decisions and automate repetitive PM tasks.
Is project management a thankless job, and should you strive to be an invisible PM? Ben Aston debates with Justin Handler how to do invisible project management; understanding technology, setting your team up for success, client and expectation management, and having difficult conversations.
Ben Aston chats with Brian Kessman about the best ways to build and scale a project management team, particularly within in agency. They cover everything from defining the purpose, getting the right people, establishing the right partnerships, setting in place the right processes and monitoring the PMO's performance.
Ben Aston chats with Joanna Leigh Simon, discovering her personal DPM story and chatting about the project management best practices that you should be doing each month. Covering the whole gamut of a monthly project reset, discover how to enhance your workflow, decrease the daily stress, and keep your projects running smoothly.
Emily Carbonell-Ferguson hosts a roundtable discussion with Patrice Embry, Abby Fretz and Ben Aston on the sometimes confusing job titles we use as we progress through our DPM careers; digital project manager vs senior digital project manager vs producer vs account manager - what's it all about? Is there really any difference between us? Or should we be calling ourselves something different altogether?
In this episode, Ben Aston chats with Natalie Semczuk about project management hacks, diving into the details of automation you can setup, tools you can use, techniques you can apply and philosophies to adopt that'll make your DPM life a whole lot easier.
In this inaugural Digital Project Manager podcast, Ben introduces the vision of the Digital Project Manager site, http://www.thedigitalprojectmanager.com, shares his story of becoming a DPM and gives an overview of what you can expect from this podcast.