The Project Management Podcast

PM Basics This episode is part of our Project Management Basics series, where we review the core principles of effective project management. Play video episode | Play audio-only episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Agile project management emphasizes collaboration, adaptability, and continuous feedback, allowing teams to produce high-value increments quickly and adjust as requirements evolve. This approach is brought to life by speaker and project management expert Cornelius Fichtner, who shares how focusing on key agile values helps deliver outcomes that genuinely match customer needs. Drawing on years of experience, he explains how frameworks like Scrum and others drive collaboration, transparency, and open communication, empowering teams to respond rapidly when priorities shift. He provides insights into managing uncertainty by breaking large initiatives into smaller deliverables, collecting constant customer input, and prioritizing real results over excessive documentation.

Premium This is a preview of our premium episode. Full access is available only to premium subscribers. Click here and learn about the Premium Podcast to access this interview and transcript... Play video preview episode | Play audio-only preview episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only preview episode or video preview episode in a new window. Episode Summary Leadership in complex environments requires a clear focus on practical methods, teamwork, and risk mitigation. Retired General Stan McChrystal joins the discussion to share proven approaches for navigating high-stakes situations. He draws on his experience as a former commander who led large-scale military operations around the globe. His insights emphasize that genuine leadership combines strategic planning with a profound understanding of your team's capabilities, motivations, and communication needs.

PM Basics This episode is part of our Project Management Basics series, where we review the core principles of effective project management. Play video episode | Play audio-only episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Leadership is more than just managing tasks—it's about inspiring teams, fostering collaboration, and guiding change. In this episode, we break down what true leadership means in a project management context and beyond. Whether you're leading a small initiative or a large-scale transformation, understanding leadership principles can significantly impact your success.

Play video episode | Play audio-only episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window.

Play video episode | Play audio-only episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Preparing for the PMP exam can feel overwhelming, but the right strategy and mindset make all the difference. In this episode, recent test-taker and now PMP-certified professional Rich Rushlow shares his journey to certification, offering firsthand insights into the study materials, resources, and techniques that worked best for him.

PM Basics This episode is part of our Project Management Basics series, where we review the core principles of effective project management. Play video episode | Play audio-only episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Project managers play a pivotal role in turning strategy into execution, but what exactly do they do daily? From ensuring teams stay aligned to mitigating risks and keeping projects on schedule, their responsibilities are both broad and essential. This episode breaks down the core tasks defining a project manager's daily work and explores how their roles evolve from junior to senior levels.

PM Basics This episode is part of our Project Management Basics series, where we review the core principles of effective project management. Play video episode | Play audio-only episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Cornelius Fichtner provides a clear and focused overview of the role of a project manager and the profound impact these professionals have on organizational success. He explains how project managers coordinate tasks, motivate teams, and deliver results while balancing risk, scope, and stakeholder needs. Project managers create an environment where projects can flourish and meet their goals by defining objectives, procuring resources, managing constraints, ensuring quality, and tailoring processes.

Play video episode | Play audio-only episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary PMOs are often seen as administrative hubs, yet they possess far greater potential when aligned with organizational strategy. Cornelius Fichtner welcomes seasoned consultant and leader, Demi Anderson, who has more than three decades of experience in project, program, and portfolio management. She shows how PMOs can focus on strategic goals rather than serving solely as process gatekeepers. And we learn that each PMO setup depends on the needs of the company, from a temporary project-level office to a permanent enterprise-level structure.

PM Basics This episode is part of our Project Management Basics series, where we review the core principles of effective project management. Play video episode | Play audio-only episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Project management stands at the heart of many successful initiatives, providing the structure and guiding principles needed to achieve meaningful outcomes. Cornelius Fichtner, PMP, draws from extensive industry experience to explain how a clear strategy, effective collaboration, and continuous improvement can empower professionals to meet and exceed project objectives. He emphasizes that every project benefits from a well-defined scope, an appropriate methodology, and ongoing risk management, allowing teams to navigate challenges without losing sight of key goals.

PM Basics This episode is part of our Project Management Basics series, where we review the core principles of effective project management. Play video episode | Play audio-only episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Project management stands at the heart of many successful initiatives, providing the structure and guiding principles needed to achieve meaningful outcomes. Cornelius Fichtner, PMP, draws from extensive industry experience to explain how a clear strategy, effective collaboration, and continuous improvement can empower professionals to meet and exceed project objectives. He emphasizes that every project benefits from a well-defined scope, an appropriate methodology, and ongoing risk management, allowing teams to navigate challenges without losing sight of key goals.

Premium This is a preview of our premium episode. Full access is available only to premium subscribers. Click here and learn about the Premium Podcast to access this interview and transcript... Play video preview episode | Play audio-only preview episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only preview episode or video preview episode in a new window. Episode Summary NASA is known for pushing the limits of human capability, but its greatest strength lies in its leadership culture. Dr. Dave Williams, a retired astronaut, physician, and former NASA executive, joins us to share valuable leadership lessons from his time at the agency. Drawing from real-life experiences, he explores how NASA leaders transitioned from technical experts to highly effective project managers and executives.

Premium This is a preview of our premium episode. Full access is available only to premium subscribers. Click here and learn about the Premium Podcast to access this interview and transcript... Play video preview episode | Play audio-only preview episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only preview episode or video preview episode in a new window. Episode Summary NASA is known for pushing the limits of human capability, but its greatest strength lies in its leadership culture. Dr. Dave Williams, a retired astronaut, physician, and former NASA executive, joins us to share valuable leadership lessons from his time at the agency. Drawing from real-life experiences, he explores how NASA leaders transitioned from technical experts to highly effective project managers and executives.

Play audio-only episode | Play video episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary (See the "Resources" section below to download the handout with the "Three Top Dependency Management Mistakes and How to Avoid Them".) Dependency management is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of project success. In this episode, Bryan Barrow, author of Dependency Management, shares his expertise on how project managers can effectively navigate and manage dependencies to ensure timely and efficient project delivery. With decades of experience in helping organizations tackle complex projects, Bryan emphasizes the importance of communication, collaboration, and proactive planning.

Play audio-only episode | Play video episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary (See the "Resources" section below to download the handout with the "Three Top Dependency Management Mistakes and How to Avoid Them".) Dependency management is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of project success. In this episode, Bryan Barrow, author of Dependency Management, shares his expertise on how project managers can effectively navigate and manage dependencies to ensure timely and efficient project delivery. With decades of experience in helping organizations tackle complex projects, Bryan emphasizes the importance of communication, collaboration, and proactive planning.

Play video episode Time's almost up! Grab your permanent 30% discount on The PM Podcast Premium before January 31. At just $4.19/month or $42/year, you'll unlock exclusive giveaways and contribute to sustaining high-quality, leadership-focused content. Get Monthly at $4.19 Get Annual at $42

Play video episode With only a week remaining in January, don't miss your chance! Lock in The PM Podcast Premium at 30% off—$4.19/month or $42/year—forever. Access exclusive guest materials and get a free Career Optimization Package to propel your leadership journey. Get Monthly at $4.19 Get Annual at $42

Premium This is a preview of our premium episode. Full access is available only to premium subscribers. Click here and learn about the Premium Podcast to access this interview and transcript... Play video preview episode | Play audio-only preview episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only preview episode or video preview episode in a new window. Episode Summary Drew Dudley, one of the world's most dynamic keynote speakers and leadership advocates, joins us to redefine what it means to be a leader. Recognized for his TEDx talk, "Leading with Lollipops," Drew emphasizes that leadership is not reserved for the extraordinary. Instead, it's about creating moments of impact through consistent daily actions. In this conversation, Drew shares his journey from a life-changing TEDx moment to becoming a global thought leader, highlighting the transformative power of recognizing everyday leadership.

Premium This is a preview of our premium episode. Full access is available only to premium subscribers. Click here and learn about the Premium Podcast to access this interview and transcript... Play video preview episode | Play audio-only preview episode | Play on YouTube Click above to play either the audio-only preview episode or video preview episode in a new window. Episode Summary Drew Dudley, one of the world's most dynamic keynote speakers and leadership advocates, joins us to redefine what it means to be a leader. Recognized for his TEDx talk, "Leading with Lollipops," Drew emphasizes that leadership is not reserved for the extraordinary. Instead, it's about creating moments of impact through consistent daily actions. In this conversation, Drew shares his journey from a life-changing TEDx moment to becoming a global thought leader, highlighting the transformative power of recognizing everyday leadership.

Play video episode Half the month is gone, but there's still time! Grab your forever 30% discount on The PM Podcast Premium and pay just $4.19/month or $42/year. Enjoy in-depth transcripts for better understanding and early access to new episodes, keeping you ahead of the curve. Get Monthly at $4.19 Get Annual at $42

Play video episode After highlighting AI in nearly every prediction, it's clear that this technology is the driving force behind the biggest shifts in project management. From integrated software features to new skill requirements, the landscape is quickly moving from AI hype to hands-on practicality. My final takeaway for you: Become an AI literate project manager.

Play video episode After highlighting AI in nearly every prediction, it's clear that this technology is the driving force behind the biggest shifts in project management. From integrated software features to new skill requirements, the landscape is quickly moving from AI hype to hands-on practicality. My final takeaway for you: Become an AI literate project manager.

Play video episode Organizations will begin creating virtual replicas—“digital twins”—of their projects to test scenarios and optimize solutions before going live. Although this concept has thrived in engineering, it's just now crossing into mainstream project management.

Play video episode Organizations will begin creating virtual replicas—“digital twins”—of their projects to test scenarios and optimize solutions before going live. Although this concept has thrived in engineering, it's just now crossing into mainstream project management.

Play video episode In a rapid-fire look at three smaller trends, project management will see big changes in how we engage stakeholders, build custom PM tools, and draft contracts. These shifts each address a different pain point, but collectively move PM into a more dynamic, flexible era.

Play video episode In a rapid-fire look at three smaller trends, project management will see big changes in how we engage stakeholders, build custom PM tools, and draft contracts. These shifts each address a different pain point, but collectively move PM into a more dynamic, flexible era.

Play video episode Many organizations will realize that using AI and big data without ethical standards can lead to biases, compliance issues, and costly mistakes. In 2025, PMs will take the first real steps toward owning data ethics—though the volume on this trend is only slightly turned up. We may have to wait until 2026 until this is a full roar.

Play video episode Many organizations will realize that using AI and big data without ethical standards can lead to biases, compliance issues, and costly mistakes. In 2025, PMs will take the first real steps toward owning data ethics—though the volume on this trend is only slightly turned up. We may have to wait until 2026 until this is a full roar.

Play video episode AI will continue to handle repetitive tasks, but it won't replicate human-centric skills like leadership and relationship management. PMs who focus on these softer skills will secure their place in an AI-driven world.

Play video episode AI will continue to handle repetitive tasks, but it won't replicate human-centric skills like leadership and relationship management. PMs who focus on these softer skills will secure their place in an AI-driven world.

Play video episode Project Managers will realize that basic AI skills and knowing how to write a prompt aren't enough to stay competitive. Deeper AI literacy—including data management, ethical considerations, and strategic implementation—will become a PM career booster.

Play video episode Project Managers will realize that basic AI skills and knowing how to write a prompt aren't enough to stay competitive. Deeper AI literacy—including data management, ethical considerations, and strategic implementation—will become a PM career booster.

Play video episode As AI tools become more integrated into project management workflows, teams may overburden them with endless requests, leading to their outright refusal to do any work whatsoever.

Play video episode As AI tools become more integrated into project management workflows, teams may overburden them with endless requests, leading to their outright refusal to do any work whatsoever.

Play video episode After the initial excitement around AI, many PMs will realize its limitations due to project data quality issues and slow-moving, gradual adoption that leaves much to be desired. This “Trough of Disillusionment” (See Gartner Hype-Curve) will prompt teams to focus on better data practices and realistic expectations.

Play video episode After the initial excitement around AI, many PMs will realize its limitations due to project data quality issues and slow-moving, gradual adoption that leaves much to be desired. This “Trough of Disillusionment” (See Gartner Hype-Curve) will prompt teams to focus on better data practices and realistic expectations.

Play video episode Project management tools will evolve in 2025, integrating AI more deeply to automate areas like resource allocation, risk analysis, or reporting. This shift means PMs can focus on strategy and leadership while repetitive tasks become increasingly automated.

Play video episode Project management tools will evolve in 2025, integrating AI more deeply to automate areas like resource allocation, risk analysis, or reporting. This shift means PMs can focus on strategy and leadership while repetitive tasks become increasingly automated.

Play video episode This January only, secure a forever 30% discount on The PM Podcast Premium—just $4.19/month or $42/year. Gain unlimited access to over 500 episodes and effortlessly earn PDUs for your PMP recertification. Elevate your project leadership and kick off 2025 with confidence. Get Monthly at $4.19 Get Annual at $42

Premium This is a preview of our premium episode. Full access is available only to premium subscribers. Click here and learn about the Premium Podcast to access this interview and transcript... Play audio-only preview episode | Play video preview episode Click above to play either the audio-only preview episode or video preview episode in a new window. Episode Summary In this premium episode, we break down how OSP International approaches change management in a way that balances the theoretical with the practical. From handling large-scale changes like PMP exam updates to smaller, partial updates, the discussion highlights the importance of tailoring strategies to fit the specific needs of each initiative. By sharing real-world experiences, this episode provides actionable insights into managing changes that resonate with stakeholders and align with project goals.

Premium This is a preview of our premium episode. Full access is available only to premium subscribers. Click here and learn about the Premium Podcast to access this interview and transcript... Play audio-only preview episode | Play video preview episode Click above to play either the audio-only preview episode or video preview episode in a new window. Episode Summary In this premium episode, we break down how OSP International approaches change management in a way that balances the theoretical with the practical. From handling large-scale changes like PMP exam updates to smaller, partial updates, the discussion highlights the importance of tailoring strategies to fit the specific needs of each initiative. By sharing real-world experiences, this episode provides actionable insights into managing changes that resonate with stakeholders and align with project goals.

Play audio-only episode | Play video episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Effective stakeholder management is critical to project success. This episode features Barbara Kephart, a UC Berkeley-certified project manager, who shares her expertise in building trust and navigating complex stakeholder dynamics. With decades of experience and a reputation as the "C-Suite Whisperer," Barbara provides insights into understanding stakeholder needs, managing their influence, and fostering collaboration for smoother project execution.

Play audio-only episode | Play video episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Effective stakeholder management is critical to project success. This episode features Barbara Kephart, a UC Berkeley-certified project manager, who shares her expertise in building trust and navigating complex stakeholder dynamics. With decades of experience and a reputation as the "C-Suite Whisperer," Barbara provides insights into understanding stakeholder needs, managing their influence, and fostering collaboration for smoother project execution.

Play audio-only episode | Play video episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Project management can be a high-stress profession filled with tight deadlines, scope changes, and budget pressures. James Louttit, a project management leader and former CIO, joins us to share his insights into reducing stress in project management and leading teams more effectively. Drawing from his personal experiences with burnout and recovery, James has developed practical, human-centered approaches that prioritize team well-being while achieving project goals. This episode explores the roots of project stress and provides actionable solutions for creating healthier project environments.

Play audio-only episode | Play video episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Project management can be a high-stress profession filled with tight deadlines, scope changes, and budget pressures. James Louttit, a project management leader and former CIO, joins us to share his insights into reducing stress in project management and leading teams more effectively. Drawing from his personal experiences with burnout and recovery, James has developed practical, human-centered approaches that prioritize team well-being while achieving project goals. This episode explores the roots of project stress and provides actionable solutions for creating healthier project environments.

Play audio-only episode | Play video episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Achieving project success involves more than managing timelines and deliverables; it starts with assembling the right team. In this episode, award-winning project management consultant and speaker, Dawn Mahan, shares her expertise on creating cohesive, effective project teams and maximizing the impact of each role. With her extensive experience advising senior leaders, Dawn brings a wealth of practical insights to help project managers make the best use of their team members' skills and ensure everyone is aligned with the project's objectives.

Play audio-only episode | Play video episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Achieving project success involves more than managing timelines and deliverables; it starts with assembling the right team. In this episode, award-winning project management consultant and speaker, Dawn Mahan, shares her expertise on creating cohesive, effective project teams and maximizing the impact of each role. With her extensive experience advising senior leaders, Dawn brings a wealth of practical insights to help project managers make the best use of their team members' skills and ensure everyone is aligned with the project's objectives.

Play audio-only episode | Play video episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Every project manager faces the complex challenge of balancing priorities across multiple dimensions, from tracking budgets and deadlines to nurturing productive teams. In this episode, Ben Willmott, founder of PPM Academy, joins us to break down his three fundamental pillars for achieving consistent project success. With over 20 years of industry experience, Ben shares insights on how these pillars – project health, financial health, and team health – can simplify the path to effective project management. His focus on practical, adaptable methods empowers project managers to navigate project complexities and drive high-impact outcomes.

Play audio-only episode | Play video episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Episode Summary Remote leadership has become an essential skill in today's project-driven environment, and mastering it can give you a distinct competitive advantage. In this episode, Cornelius Fichtner welcomes Wayne Turmel, an expert in remote work and leadership, to discuss how project managers can adapt their leadership styles to meet the demands of virtual teams. Wayne shares practical strategies and tools managers can use to build trust, communicate effectively, and foster engagement in remote work.

Play video episode In this video, Cornelius Fichtner announces the launch of his fully updated CAPM exam prep course on Udemy.

Play video episode | Play audio-only episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. The Project Management Institute (PMI) is updating the PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)® exam, with significant changes taking effect on November 8th, 2024. Whether you're currently studying or planning to start your preparation, these updates will impact your path to certification. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about the upcoming changes and how they affect you.

Play video episode | Play audio-only episode Click above to play either the audio-only episode or video episode in a new window. Cornelius Fichtner introduces exciting new benefits for premium subscribers to The Project Management Podcast. Here's a sneak peek of what's coming soon: