Take the leap - Management by Gunnar

Introduction podcast to Agile project management

This podcasts examines the four core values of Agile from the Agile Manifesto

This podcasts introduces some of the 12 principles behind Agile. More information can be found here: https://agilemanifesto.org/principles.html

This podcasts introduces the idea of value and benefits into project management. This is at the core of Agile and we will discuss it further in coming podcasts. 

Introduces the idea of Benefit realization management based on the PMI framework. Check out this presentation on the topic ->  

Short walkthrough of the Agile process and its terminology

Podcast discussing the idea of teams and above all self-organization

Implementing Agile is about changing our company. This podcast outlines some of the important areas to think about. 

This podcast talks about Agile scaling 

This podcasts talks about the idea of flow and flow theory in the realm of management.

This podcast talks about fun as a management style 

This podcast talks about delegation of tasks in the workplace. I share some personal experiences and tips on how to succeed with delegation. 

The talk that  a lot of managers dread, negative feedback ,or the hard talks. 

My take on KPI's and why they aren't really useful

A podcasts introducing the idea of motivations, theory behind it and how it works

This podcast continues the discussion of motivation and introduces the 2-factor theory created by Hertzberg.

In this podcast we continue the exploration of motivational theory with Mazlows Hierarchy of Needs

This podcasts questions and discusses the idea of risk management in projects. 

In this podcast I talk about the idea of diversity in the context of projects and that if it is good or bad. 

Podcast talking about ethics and morals, what it is and how business sees it. 

New podcast about culture in general and organisations. It uses the ideas of Schein to discuss the impact of culture in our lives. 

Brand new podcast on the idea of power and paradoxical nature of it. 

In this podcast I will talk about project selection and how PMI appraoches the topic. 

This podcast deals with the notion of prioritizing projects, what projects are more important than others. 

This podcast talks about how to balance a portfolio, methods you can use and the reasons for it

In this episode of Take the Leap Management, we dive into Project Portfolio Maturity—what it means for organizations and how it impacts the success of their projects. We'll explore how developing mature portfolio management practices can help businesses strategically align projects, optimize resources, and drive long-term value. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this episode will provide insights on elevating your portfolio management to the next level.

In this episode of Take the Leap Management, we explore Project Portfolio Alignment and how it ensures that every project supports an organization's strategic goals. We discuss key methods from PMI's portfolio management theories, including strategic mapping, scoring models, and resource alignment, along with practical examples of how organizations can prioritize projects that deliver maximum value. Whether you're managing a portfolio or just starting out, this episode will help you understand how to align projects with long-term success. Tune in and learn how to keep your projects on track with your organization's vision.

  In this episode of Take the Leap Management, we explore some of the common critiques of PMI's portfolio management theories. We dive into issues like over-standardization, complexity, risk aversion, and the heavy focus on financial metrics, while discussing how organizations can adapt these frameworks to fit their unique needs. Whether you're a project manager or a leader navigating portfolio decisions, this episode offers practical insights on how to balance structure with flexibility and drive real value. Tune in to learn how to make PMI's portfolio management work for you.

In this episode of Take the Leap Management, we explore the vital concepts of Capacity and Capability Management through the lens of PMI (Project Management Institute). Balancing the resources you have with the skills they possess is no easy feat, and often, tough trade-offs must be made. Do you invest in growing your team's capabilities or focus on maximizing current capacity? We'll break down the differences, discuss the real-world implications of each, and provide actionable insights on how to navigate these trade-offs to deliver successful projects every time. Tune in and learn how to make the most of what you've got while preparing for what's next!

In this episode we're taking a closer look at Capability Maturity Model Integration, or CMMI—a game-changing framework that helps organizations streamline processes, reduce risks, and improve performance. If you've ever felt like your projects are all over the place, or you're constantly fighting fires instead of driving growth, CMMI can be your roadmap to maturity. From assessing where you are now to building a structured path to excellence, CMMI helps you level up—step by step. We're going to break down how this model works, why it matters, and how you can apply it to your own team or organization. So, whether you're new to CMMI or looking to deepen your understanding, stick around as we explore how to measure what matters and elevate your capabilities to the next level.

In today's fast-paced project environment, ensuring your team has the right skills and expertise is critical for success. Capability assessment, as outlined by PMI, helps organizations evaluate their current strengths, identify gaps, and build the necessary skills to deliver projects effectively. Here's a quick overview of the process!

In this episode of *Take the Leap Management*, we dive deep into the classic method for managing risks in project portfolios: **identifying risks, assessing them, and developing mitigation strategies**. We'll break down each step, from systematically identifying potential risks to using real examples of how to assess and prioritize them. You'll learn how tools like SWOT analysis, risk matrices, and historical data can help in the identification process, and how to evaluate risks based on their likelihood and impact. We'll also cover how to develop effective mitigation strategies, from risk avoidance to transferring risks, and explore how to prioritize risks based on the urgency they pose to your projects. But is this widely used approach really the best? Tune in as we question whether relying on subjective risk estimates is enough—and if there might be more effective ways to manage risk.

In this episode of Take the Leap Management, we dive deep into naive risk analysis methods in project portfolio management—why they're problematic and how they can lead to costly mistakes. We explore how overly simplistic approaches to identifying risks, assessing them, and developing mitigation strategies often rely on gut feelings and assumptions, missing the real complexities of projects. With examples of how naive methods fail and guidance on evolving toward a more data-driven, collaborative, and dynamic approach, we'll show you how to manage risk with greater depth and effectiveness.

In today's episode of Take the Leap Management, we're diving into the crucial question: where should risk analysis really happen—at the project level, portfolio level, or executive level? We'll break down the distinct focus at each level, from the granular operational risks at the project level to the broader strategic risks at the executive level, and discuss how these layers interact to form an integrated risk management approach. Understanding how risks flow between these levels is key to making informed decisions and ensuring your organization can handle both immediate project challenges and larger external threats. Join us as we explore the interplay of risk analysis across your entire organization and how to strengthen your approach to managing risks at every level.

In today's episode of Take the Leap Management, we're questioning whether risk analysis in IT projects is as critical as it's often made out to be. Many of the risks in IT are well-known and predictable—things like scope creep, budget overruns, and technology changes. With these recurring risks being so familiar, is risk analysis really adding value? And with the rise of Agile project management, which focuses on flexibility and adjusting in real time, are we just going through the motions with risk analysis? Join us as we explore why some argue that traditional risk analysis is becoming less relevant in today's IT projects, and how Agile's adaptability might make it unnecessary.

In today's episode of Take the Leap Management, we're exploring what shapes our propensity to take risks. From personal traits and past experiences to cultural influences and external factors, there's a complex mix that affects why some people are more comfortable with risk while others shy away from it. We'll also dive into how workplace culture and leadership can encourage or discourage risk-taking, and how factors like age, industry, and even the political climate come into play. If you've ever wondered why you approach risks the way you do—or how to manage risk-takers on your team—this episode is for you. Stay tuned!

  In this episode of Take the Leap Management, we're diving into the essential topic of leading versus lagging KPIs—key performance indicators. Whether you're tracking performance, overseeing a project, or managing a team, understanding the difference between these two types of KPIs can significantly impact how you steer your team toward success. We'll explore how leading KPIs offer forward-looking insights, giving you the chance to take action early, while lagging KPIsreflect past results and help measure final outcomes. Tune in to learn how balancing both can give you the complete picture you need to drive better performance and make proactive decisions. Stay with us as we explore how to effectively use KPIs to not only measure success but to actively create it.

On this episode of "Take the Leap Management", we're tackling a bold claim: "Most IT projects are useless and deliver no value." Why do so many IT projects fail to meet expectations? And more importantly, how can they avoid this fate? Join us as we break down common pitfalls, explore real-world examples, and share key strategies to ensure your IT projects drive real value. Don't miss this deep dive into the world of IT project success!

Welcome to "Take the Leap Management!" In today's episode, we're diving into a fundamental concept from the Project Management Institute—benefit—and how it ties into the value equation. We'll break down PMI's definition of benefit, look at how it's not just about what a project produces but the real-world gains that come from it. And of course, we'll explore the value equation: Value equals Benefit minus Cost, and what that means for making sure your projects deliver more than they consume. Stay tuned!

Welcome to Take the Leap Management! Today, we're kicking off our series on Sustainable Project Portfolio Management by exploring what it means to manage a portfolio with sustainability in mind. We'll discuss the core principles of sustainable portfolio management and why it's crucial for organizations looking to thrive in a changing world. Tune in to learn how balancing environmental, social, and economic goals can help you create long-term value in every project.

A deep dive into the Triple Bottom Line (People, Planet, Profit) and its application in project portfolios. Discusses how balancing economic, environmental, and social factors can create sustainable value.

Examines the alignment of sustainability goals with overall business strategy, and how strategic alignment can enhance both organizational impact and portfolio performance.

In this episode, we'll explore how to select and prioritize sustainable projects within your portfolio. We'll discuss the criteria, tools, and frameworks that can help you evaluate projects for maximum impact—financial, environmental, and social. Tune in to learn practical strategies for choosing projects that align with your sustainability goals and bring value to your organization and community.

Welcome back! Today, we're talking about the tools and metrics that make it possible to track sustainability in project portfolios. From carbon tracking to impact assessments, we'll cover the essentials of measuring your sustainability goals and demonstrating your progress. Join us as we discuss how to use data to showcase the impact of your projects and keep sustainability on track.

Resource management is key to sustainability, and today we're focusing on how to manage resources effectively across your portfolio. From choosing renewable materials to reducing waste and optimizing energy, we'll explore strategies for making every resource count. Tune in to learn how smart resource management can cut costs and reduce your environmental footprint."

In today's episode, we're diving into risk management with a sustainability lens. We'll explore how to identify and manage environmental, social, and financial risks within your portfolio, using tools like Environmental Impact Assessments and Integrated Risk Management. Whether you're tackling regulatory challenges or planning for climate risks, this episode is all about protecting your projects and advancing sustainability.

Welcome back! In this episode, we're discussing how to build a culture of sustainability within project teams. We'll cover ways to engage team members, create shared values, and make sustainability a natural part of your organization's DNA. Tune in for insights on how leaders can inspire a proactive, committed team culture that values sustainability every day.

Today, we're focusing on reporting and communication—critical for demonstrating the impact of your sustainability efforts. We'll discuss how to choose the right metrics, tell compelling stories, and engage stakeholders through transparent reporting. Join us to learn how effective communication can build trust and showcase the value of sustainability in your project portfolio.

In our final episode, we're looking ahead to the future of Sustainable Project Portfolio Management. From evolving regulations to tech innovations and circular economy principles, we'll discuss the trends shaping the field and what they mean for your portfolio. Tune in to explore how these trends can guide you toward a sustainable, resilient future for your organization.

Welcome to *Take the Leap Management*! In this episode, we're diving into the fascinating journey of DevOps—from its humble beginnings as an idea to its transformation into a cultural revolution that's reshaping modern software development. We'll explore how DevOps evolved, why it matters more than ever, and how it's bridging the gap between development and operations to drive innovation, speed, and collaboration. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a leader looking to stay ahead, this episode has something for you. Let's take the leap into the world of DevOps!

Welcome to Take the Leap Management! Today, we're unpacking the core practices that make DevOps tick. From Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment to Infrastructure as Code and Agile methodologies, we'll explore how these key practices transform the way teams work, innovate, and deliver value. Whether you're new to DevOps or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to help you succeed. Let's dive into what really makes DevOps work!

Welcome to Take the Leap Management! In today's episode, we're tackling a classic challenge in organizations: breaking down silos. We'll explore how DevOps transforms the relationship between development and operations, fostering collaboration, eliminating bottlenecks, and creating a unified team working toward shared goals. If you've ever wondered how to turn finger-pointing into teamwork, this episode is for you. Let's dive into how DevOps unites and conquers!

Welcome to Take the Leap Management! Today, we're diving into the power of automation in driving DevOps success. From streamlining workflows to reducing human error, automation is the backbone of modern DevOps practices. We'll discuss the tools, strategies, and game-changing possibilities that automation brings to the table. Whether you're looking to boost efficiency or take your processes to the next level, this episode is packed with insights to inspire you. Let's explore how automation makes it all happen!

Welcome to Take the Leap Management! In this episode, we're diving into the numbers that matter in DevOps. How do you measure success? What key metrics and KPIs truly reflect DevOps maturity? From deployment frequency to lead time, stability, and beyond, we'll explore how data-driven insights can guide improvement and fuel success. If you're ready to take the guesswork out of DevOps, this episode is for you. Let's break down the metrics that make a difference!

Welcome to Take the Leap Management, the podcast where we dive into the cutting-edge trends shaping the future of management and technology. In today's episode, we're exploring one of the most critical topics in modern software development: Security in DevOps. As organizations race to deliver faster and more agile solutions, security can no longer be an afterthought. That's where DevSecOps comes in—embedding security at every stage of the development lifecycle, also known as ‘shifting left.' We'll uncover what it means to truly integrate security into DevOps, the challenges teams face, and the tools and strategies that make it work. Whether you're a DevOps pro, a security enthusiast, or just curious about the future of secure software development, this episode has something for you. Let's jump in and shift left with DevSecOps!

Welcome to Take the Leap Management! In today's episode, we're tackling the big question: how do you scale DevOps in large, complex organizations? From legacy systems and silos to automation, standardization, and cultural change, we'll dive into practical tips and lessons for implementing DevOps at enterprise scale. If you're ready to turn slow-moving processes into agile, collaborative success stories, this one's for you. Let's explore how to make DevOps work—no matter how big the challenge!

Christmas special talking about how the holidays and christmas influences employees. In this episode we are joined by Santa Claus who shares his very special view on maangement. 

In this first episode, we dive into The Rise of AI in Project Portfolio Management, examining AI's potential to address modern challenges in managing complex project portfolios while acknowledging its limitations. AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it's here, and organizations are already leveraging it for decision-making, resource allocation, and risk management. However, like any powerful tool, AI comes with risks and requires careful implementation.

Welcome back to Take the Leap Management and to the second episode of our series, The AI Revolution in Project Portfolio Management. In our last episode, we explored the transformative rise of AI in project portfolio management and how it's reshaping everything from decision-making to resource allocation. Today, we're narrowing our focus to a critical topic: how AI is revolutionizing the project selection process, helping organizations make smarter, more strategic decisions about which initiatives to pursue. If you've ever been part of project selection, you know it's no easy task. Balancing potential returns, strategic alignment, and innovation against risks and resources is a complex challenge, often clouded by subjectivity or politics. But what if AI could change all that—bringing clarity, objectivity, and speed to this pivotal process? In this episode, we'll unpack how AI evaluates projects, identifies synergies, and highlights risks to ensure that portfolios align with organizational goals. We'll also address the challenges of relying on AI, from data quality issues to the need for human judgment in areas AI can't fully measure, like innovation or employee morale. So, let's dive in and explore how AI is shaping the future of smarter project selection. Stay tuned—it's going to be a fascinating discussion!

Welcome back to The AI Revolution in Project Management! In this third episode, we're diving into a challenge every project manager knows well: resource allocation. Balancing workloads, matching skills to tasks, and ensuring resources are used efficiently can feel like solving a complex puzzle. Enter AI—a game-changer that's transforming how organizations optimize their resources. From identifying capacity gaps to predicting future needs, AI-powered tools are helping teams work smarter, not harder. Join us as we explore how AI is revolutionizing resource management, with real-world examples and insights into balancing availability, skills, and workloads like never before. Let's get started!

Welcome back to The AI Revolution in Project Management! In Episode 4, we're exploring how AI is reshaping risk management. From predictive analytics that identify potential risks to AI-driven models that assess and mitigate uncertainties, we'll uncover the opportunities—and limitations—of using AI to navigate project risks. Let's dive in!

Welcome back to The AI Revolution in Project Management! In Episode 5, we're tackling a critical challenge—project scheduling and planning. AI is transforming the way teams create, adjust, and optimize project timelines, making scheduling more adaptive and data-driven than ever before. From real-time adjustments to smarter forecasting, we'll explore how AI is reshaping project planning and its impact on deliverables. Let's get started!

Welcome back to Take the Leap Management, the podcast where we explore bold ideas, innovations, and challenges in modern project management. In today's episode, we're diving into a critical aspect of project success—stakeholder engagement—and how AI is transforming the way we understand, communicate with, and manage our stakeholders. Imagine having the ability to instantly analyze stakeholder sentiment, predict concerns before they escalate, and tailor your communication strategy for maximum impact. AI is making this possible, helping leaders move beyond guesswork and into data-driven engagement. But with great power comes great responsibility. How do we ensure AI-driven stakeholder management remains ethical, unbiased, and transparent? Join me as we explore the opportunities and challenges of AI in stakeholder engagement, uncovering how technology is not just changing the way we listen, but how we respond, build trust, and drive project success. Let's take the leap together!

Welcome back to The AI Revolution in Project Portfolio Management! Today, we're diving into one of AI's most transformative impacts—its role in decision-making for project portfolios. Managing a portfolio is complex, requiring tough choices on prioritization, resource allocation, and strategic alignment. Traditionally, these decisions have been shaped by financial forecasts, executive judgment, and sometimes internal politics. But AI is changing that, bringing data-driven insights and predictive analytics that help organizations make smarter, more objective decisions. In this episode, we'll explore how AI is reshaping project selection, risk management, and resource optimization, providing real-world examples of how organizations are leveraging AI to build more strategic and balanced portfolios. We'll also discuss the challenges, limitations, and the critical role of human judgment in working alongside AI. Let's get started!

Welcome to Take the Leap Management, the podcast where we explore bold ideas and game-changing innovations in project management. In today's episode, we're diving into one of the most exciting frontiers of AI—driving innovation in projects. Imagine having an AI-powered assistant that doesn't just optimize your workflow but actually helps uncover new opportunities, solve complex problems, and push the boundaries of what's possible. From predicting market trends to designing next-generation products, AI is fueling creativity and innovation like never before. But how does it actually work in practice? How can AI help project teams foster creativity, identify breakthrough ideas, and turn data into innovation? And what are the real-world success stories proving that AI isn't just about efficiency—it's about discovery? Join me as we explore how AI is revolutionizing the way we innovate, helping teams move faster, think bigger, and create smarter. Let's take the leap together!

Welcome to Take the Leap Management, the podcast where we explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of project management. Today, we're tackling one of the biggest conversations around AI—its challenges and ethical concerns. From biases in AI models to data security risks and transparency issues, AI adoption isn't just about efficiency—it's about responsibility. How do we address workforce concerns about automation? How do we ensure AI is fair, secure, and trusted within project teams? Join me as we unpack the ethical side of AI, exploring how organizations can navigate these challenges and build a future where AI enhances, rather than disrupts, the way we work. Let's take the leap together!

Welcome to Take the Leap Management, the podcast where we explore the future of project management. In this final episode of our AI in Portfolio Management series, we're looking ahead—how will AI reshape the project management profession over the next decade? From autonomous project management systems to AI-driven decision intelligence, emerging technologies are set to transform the way we plan, execute, and lead projects. But what does that mean for project managers? How can we prepare for this shift, build trust in AI, and ensure we stay ahead in an AI-powered world? Join me as we explore the future of project management in the age of AI—what's next, what's changing, and how we can take the leap into the next era of innovation. Let's get started!

Join Take the Leap Management for an exciting deep dive into the world of leadership with our new podcast series on Leadership Theories. From classic models like the Great Man Theory and Trait Theory to modern approaches like Transformational Leadership and Servant Leadership, we explore what makes a leader truly effective. Each episode breaks down a key leadership theory, exploring its principles, real-world applications, and how you can use it to refine your own leadership style. Whether you're leading a team, managing projects, or simply looking to grow as a leader, this series will provide the insights, tools, and inspiration you need to lead with confidence, adaptability, and impact. Subscribe now and take the leap into the future of leadership!

Are Leaders Born or Made? Exploring the Great Man Theory In this episode of Take the Leap Management, we dive into one of the earliest leadership theories—the Great Man Theory. This classic idea suggests that leaders are born, not made, and that certain individuals naturally possess the qualities required for leadership. But is leadership really an inherent trait, or can it be developed over time? We explore the origins of this theory, its influence on leadership thinking, and whether it still holds relevance in today's world. Tune in as we challenge traditional assumptions and uncover what truly makes a great leader.

In this episode of Take the Leap Management, we explore Trait Theory, a leadership model that suggests effective leaders share common, inherent traits such as intelligence, confidence, and integrity. But does possessing these traits guarantee success? Can leadership qualities be developed, or are they purely innate? Join us as we examine the strengths and limitations of Trait Theory, its impact on leadership selection, and what it really takes to lead with impact.

Leadership isn't about who you are—it's about what you do. In this episode of Take the Leap Management, we explore Behavioral Leadership Theory, a game-changing perspective that shifts leadership from innate traits to learned behaviors. Can leadership be taught? How do actions define great leaders? And what does this mean for organizations looking to develop leadership at all levels? Join us as we break down the key research, practical applications, and challenges of behavioral leadership, and discover how anyone can develop the skills to lead effectively. Let's take the leap together!

Welcome to Take the Leap Management — the podcast where modern leadership meets real-world challenges. In every episode, we dive into the tools, theories, and strategies that help managers lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Today, we're exploring a leadership approach that's all about adaptability: Situational Leadership Theory. What if leadership wasn't about having one perfect style, but about knowing when to direct, when to support, and when to step back? Let's unpack how this flexible framework can transform the way you lead your team—and elevate your impact.

Welcome to Take the Leap Management — the podcast where we explore leadership that adapts, evolves, and meets the moment. Today's episode dives into Contingency Leadership Theory, a powerful reminder that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to leading people and projects. It's not about having the “perfect” style—it's about aligning leadership with context, challenges, and team dynamics. Whether you're managing a crisis or fostering innovation, great leadership means knowing how to read the room—and lead accordingly.

Today, we're diving into one of the most powerful leadership models in modern management: Transformational Leadership Theory. It's more than a strategy—it's a mindset. A way of leading that's rooted in vision, inspiration, innovation, and purpose. From igniting creativity to driving meaningful change, transformational leaders don't just guide—they empower, elevate, and spark movements. So buckle up. In this episode, we'll unpack the theory, explore real-world examples, and discover how transformational leadership can redefine teams, projects, and entire organizations. Let's take the leap.

Welcome back to Take the Leap Management, the podcast where we break down powerful leadership theories and management strategies that drive real results. Today, we're diving into Transactional Leadership Theory—a classic but often misunderstood model built on structure, supervision, and clear expectations. While it may not be flashy or inspirational, this leadership style is essential in high-stakes environments where rules matter and consistency is key. From the military to healthcare to large-scale project portfolios, transactional leadership ensures that work gets done—on time, by the book, and with accountability. Let's explore when structure outperforms inspiration—and why sometimes, following the rules is the smartest move a leader can make.

Welcome back to Take the Leap Management—the podcast where we unpack the ideas, tools, and mindsets that shape the future of leadership. In today's episode, we explore a model that flips traditional leadership on its head: Servant Leadership. What happens when leaders put people before power, and empathy before ego? From its roots in Robert Greenleaf's philosophy to modern-day examples like Herb Kelleher and Cheryl Bachelder, we'll dive into how servant leadership transforms teams, projects, and entire organizations. If you're ready to lead with purpose and empower others to thrive—this one's for you. Let's take the leap.

Welcome back to Take the Leap Management, the podcast where we dive into the theories, strategies, and innovations that drive success in project and portfolio management. I'm glad you're here. Today, we're exploring the Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) theory—a powerful lens on leadership that challenges the idea that one size fits all. We'll uncover how the quality of relationships between leaders and their teams shapes project outcomes, boosts engagement, and drives strategic success. Whether you're leading a project team or managing a portfolio, understanding LMX can transform the way you build trust, delegate work, and navigate challenges. Let's take the leap together and dive in!