Podcasts about Program management

In this podcast, Ricardo explores the emerging concept of the “one-person project,” made possible by advances in artificial intelligence, automation, and digital platforms. He challenges the traditional belief that complex projects require large teams, noting that bigger teams also increase coordination efforts, communication overhead, and dependencies. Drawing on Brooks' Law, he explains that adding more people does not always improve productivity. Today, a single professional can perform tasks that once required entire teams, raising the question of whether projects should be delivered by the smallest effective team possible. However, he also highlights risks such as knowledge concentration and reduced diversity of perspectives. Finally, Ricardo expands the discussion to the future of work, questioning how society will adapt if fewer people are needed to achieve greater results. Listen to the podcast to learn more about!

Neste episódio, Ricardo reflete sobre a crescente possibilidade de projetos serem executados por uma única pessoa graças ao avanço da inteligência artificial, da automação e das plataformas digitais. Ele destaca que, tradicionalmente, projetos complexos exigiam grandes equipes, mas que o aumento do número de pessoas também amplia os esforços de coordenação, comunicação e alinhamento. Com as novas tecnologias, um profissional pode realizar atividades que antes demandavam equipes inteiras, tornando possível reduzir o tamanho dos times sem comprometer os resultados. Contudo, esse modelo traz riscos, como a concentração de conhecimento e a redução da diversidade de perspectivas. Ricardo amplia a discussão para o futuro do trabalho, questionando os impactos sociais e econômicos de um cenário em que cada vez menos pessoas sejam necessárias para produzir mais resultados. Escute o podcast para saber mais!

In this episode, Ricardo presents Brooks' Law, created over 50 years ago and still very relevant. The law states that adding people to a software project that is behind schedule tends to delay it even further. This is because new members need to be trained and mentored by more experienced members, reducing team productivity. Furthermore, increasing the number of people makes communication, coordination, and integration of deliverables more complex. Ricardo emphasizes that this concept remains valid in the age of artificial intelligence, as adding more tools, agents, or automations does not solve problems of priorities, processes, or governance. Often, the solution lies in removing obstacles, simplifying decisions, and improving work coordination. Listen to the podcast to learn more about!

Neste episódio, Ricardo apresenta a Lei de Brooks, criada há mais de 50 anos e ainda muito relevante. A lei afirma que adicionar pessoas a um projeto de software, que está atrasado, tende a atrasá-lo ainda mais. Isso ocorre porque os novos integrantes precisam ser treinados e orientados pelos membros mais experientes, reduzindo a produtividade da equipe. Além disso, o aumento do número de pessoas torna a comunicação, a coordenação e a integração das entregas mais complexas. Ricardo destaca que esse conceito continua válido na era da inteligência artificial, pois adicionar mais ferramentas, agentes ou automações não resolve problemas de prioridades, processos ou governança. Muitas vezes, a solução está em remover obstáculos, simplificar decisões e melhorar a coordenação do trabalho. Escute o podcast para saber mais!

In this episode, Ricardo discusses the main misunderstandings about the eighth edition of the PMBOK Guide. He explains that the PMI has not abandoned traditional management nor transformed everything into agile, but has begun to integrate predictive, hybrid, and adaptive approaches in a more intelligent way. Ricardo emphasizes that governance, cost control, scheduling, and leadership remain essential, but are now applied in more complex and dynamic environments. He also clarifies that artificial intelligence appears as a support tool, not as a replacement for human leadership. Another important point is that no framework solves cultural problems or management failures on its own. According to Ricardo, the new PMBOK seeks to connect execution and value creation, reducing conflict between methodologies and encouraging adaptation to the real context of projects. Listen to the podcast to learn more about! * The opinions presented in this podcast reflect solely the personal views of Ricardo and do not necessarily represent the position of PMI. This episode has no sponsorship, support, or institutional affiliation with any organization.

Neste episódio, Ricardo comenta os principais mal-entendidos sobre a oitava edição do PMBOK Guide. Ele explica que o PMI não abandonou a gestão tradicional nem transformou tudo em ágil, mas passou a integrar abordagens preditivas, híbridas e adaptativas de forma mais inteligente. Ricardo destaca que governança, controle de custos, cronograma e liderança continuam essenciais, porém agora aplicados em ambientes mais complexos e dinâmicos. Ele também esclarece que a inteligência artificial aparece como ferramenta de apoio, não como substituição da liderança humana. Outro ponto importante é que nenhum framework resolve problemas culturais ou falhas de gestão sozinho. Segundo Ricardo, o novo PMBOK busca conectar execução e geração de valor, reduzindo o conflito entre metodologias e incentivando adaptação ao contexto real dos projetos. Escute o podcast para saber mais! * As opiniões apresentadas neste podcast refletem exclusivamente a visão pessoal de Ricardo e não representam, necessariamente, o posicionamento do PMI. Este episódio não possui patrocínio, apoio ou vínculo institucional com qualquer organização.

In this episode, Ricardo explains that career growth in project management is not defined only by technical skills, certifications, or tools. Often, the most important moments are brief, unexpected interactions during crises or difficult conversations. In these situations, leaders observe who remains calm, simplifies chaos, communicates clearly, takes responsibility, and helps others make decisions. While technical competence is essential, trust, confidence, and leadership under pressure become the true differentiators as careers evolve. With artificial intelligence automating many technical tasks, human abilities such as judgment, communication, and decision-making in uncertain situations are becoming even more valuable. Sometimes, a career-changing moment may last only a few minutes. Listen to the podcast to learn more about!

Neste episódio, Ricardo explica que o crescimento na carreira de gestão de projetos não se define apenas por habilidades técnicas, certificações ou ferramentas. Muitas vezes, os momentos mais importantes são interações breves e inesperadas durante crises ou conversas difíceis. Nessas situações, os líderes observam quem mantém a calma, simplifica o caos, comunica-se com clareza, assume a responsabilidade e ajuda os outros a tomar decisões. Embora a competência técnica seja essencial, a confiança e a liderança sob pressão tornam-se os verdadeiros diferenciais à medida que as carreiras evoluem. Com a inteligência artificial automatizando muitas tarefas técnicas, habilidades humanas como julgamento, comunicação e tomada de decisão em situações incertas tornam-se ainda mais valiosas. Às vezes, um momento que pode mudar a carreira dura apenas alguns minutos. Escute o podcast pra saber mais!

In this episode, Ricardo Vargas discusses "Watermelon Projects": projects that appear healthy on dashboards but face serious internal problems. He explains that often, indicators remain green for fear of exposing difficulties, disappointing sponsors, or suffering punishment in corporate cultures that associate problems with personal failure. Thus, delays, risks, and scope cuts end up being masked. Ricardo warns that the greatest danger is not a red project, but an artificially green one, as problems grow silently until they become critical. He emphasizes that dashboards reflect organizational behaviors and culture. For him, healthy projects are not those without problems, but those where the team feels safe to discuss difficulties early, transparently, and without fear. Listen to the podcast to learn more about!

Neste episódio, Ricardo fala sobre os “Watermelon Projects”: projetos que parecem saudáveis nos dashboards, mas enfrentam sérios problemas internamente. Ele explica que, muitas vezes, os indicadores permanecem verdes por medo de expor dificuldades, decepcionar patrocinadores ou sofrer punições em culturas corporativas que associam problemas ao fracasso pessoal. Assim, atrasos, riscos e cortes de escopo acabam sendo mascarados. Ricardo alerta que o maior perigo não é um projeto vermelho, mas sim um projeto artificialmente verde, pois os problemas crescem silenciosamente até se tornarem críticos. Ele destaca que dashboards refletem comportamentos e cultura organizacional. Para ele, projetos saudáveis não são os que não possuem problemas, mas aqueles onde a equipe tem segurança para discutir dificuldades cedo, com transparência e sem medo. Escute o podcast pra saber mais!

In this episode, Ricardo questions the effectiveness of traditional project planning tools, based on static plans. Although fundamental for decades, these plans quickly become obsolete in dynamic environments. He highlights that Artificial Intelligence transforms this scenario by allowing continuous forecasting and real-time adjustments, replacing fixed estimates with dynamic, data-driven analyses. With this, the focus shifts from following a plan to adapting to change. Current tools still lack this predictive intelligence, which can compromise their relevance. The role of the project manager also changes: from planner to critical and strategic analyst. Despite the benefits, there are risks, such as excessive reliance on AI and decisions based on inaccurate data. Listen to the podcast to learn more about!

Neste episódio, Ricardo questiona a eficácia das ferramentas tradicionais de planejamento de projetos, baseadas em planos estáticos. Embora tenham sido fundamentais por décadas, esses planos rapidamente se tornam obsoletos em ambientes dinâmicos. Ele destaca que a Inteligência Artificial transforma esse cenário ao permitir previsões contínuas e ajustes em tempo real, substituindo estimativas fixas por análises dinâmicas baseadas em dados. Com isso, o foco deixa de ser seguir um plano e passa a ser adaptar-se às mudanças. As ferramentas atuais ainda carecem dessa inteligência preditiva, o que pode comprometer sua relevância. O papel do gerente de projetos também muda: de planejador para analista crítico e estratégico. Apesar dos benefícios, há riscos, como dependência excessiva da IA e decisões baseadas em dados imprecisos. Escute o podcast para saber mais!

In this episode, Ricardo discusses KPIs (Key Performance Indicators). He explains that KPIs are essential metrics that support decision-making in projects, unlike general metrics that only report data. Effective KPIs help anticipate problems, expedite decisions, and align teams and stakeholders. Examples for schedule performance include the percentage of tasks completed on time, the planned versus scheduled duration, the SPI (Schedule Performance Index), and the average delay per delivery. For cost, the CPI (Cost Performance Index) and cost variance measure efficiency. Beyond schedule and cost, strategic KPIs are essential, such as rework rate, value delivered, adherence to the business plan, and stakeholder satisfaction, as projects can meet time and budget targets and still fail. Ricardo recommends using a few meaningful KPIs, tracking trends, updating them frequently, and avoiding superficial metrics that don't guide decisions. Tune in to the podcast to learn more!

Neste episódio, Ricardo fala sobre KPIs (Key Performance Indicators - Indicadores-Chave de Desempenho). Ele explica que os KPIs são métricas essenciais que apoiam a tomada de decisões em projetos, ao contrário das métricas gerais que apenas reportam dados. KPIs eficazes ajudam a antecipar problemas, agilizar decisões e alinhar equipes e stakeholders. Exemplos para desempenho de cronograma incluem a porcentagem de tarefas concluídas no prazo, a duração prevista versus a duração programada, o SPI (Índice de Desempenho do Cronograma) e o atraso médio por entrega. Para custo, o CPI (Índice de Desempenho de Custo) e a variação de custo medem a eficiência. Além de cronograma e custo, KPIs estratégicos são essenciais, como taxa de retrabalho, valor entregue, aderência ao plano de negócios e satisfação dos stakeholders, pois os projetos podem atingir as metas de tempo e orçamento e ainda assim falhar. Ricardo recomenda usar alguns KPIs significativos, acompanhar tendências, atualizá-los frequentemente e evitar métricas superficiais que não orientam as decisões. Escute o podcast para saber mais!

In this episode, Ricardo explains that rework is an invisible yet highly destructive problem in projects. Although organizations measure schedule, cost, and scope, they rarely monitor rework, the effort spent correcting already completed work. This lack of measurement obscures the project's true efficiency. Rework often stems from deeper problems, such as unclear requirements, misalignment among stakeholders, late decisions, or low initial quality. Its impact is significant: delays increase, costs rise, teams become exhausted, and client confidence decreases. Ricardo argues that rework should be treated as a key performance indicator, continuously monitored to assess the project's health. When measured, it drives better behaviors, improving quality, decision-making, and alignment. Ultimately, projects fail not only due to delays but also due to wasted effort, with rework being one of the main hidden factors contributing to this failure. Tune in to the podcast to learn more!

Neste episódio, Ricardo explica que o retrabalho é um problema invisível, porém altamente destrutivo, em projetos. Embora as organizações meçam cronograma, custo e escopo, raramente monitoram o retrabalho, o esforço gasto corrigindo o trabalho já concluído. Essa falta de mensuração oculta a verdadeira eficiência do projeto. O retrabalho frequentemente decorre de problemas mais profundos, como requisitos pouco claros, desalinhamento entre as partes interessadas, decisões tardias ou baixa qualidade inicial. Seu impacto é significativo: atrasos aumentam, custos sobem, as equipes ficam exaustas e a confiança do cliente diminui. Ricardo argumenta que o retrabalho deve ser tratado como um indicador-chave de desempenho, monitorado continuamente para avaliar a saúde do projeto. Quando mensurado, ele impulsiona melhores comportamentos, melhorando a qualidade, a tomada de decisões e o alinhamento. Em última análise, os projetos falham não apenas devido a atrasos, mas também devido ao desperdício de esforço, sendo o retrabalho um dos principais fatores ocultos que contribuem para esse fracasso. Ouça o episódio completo para saber mais!

In this episode, Ricardo discusses how artificial intelligence is transforming project management by moving beyond being just a tool and becoming an active agent in decision-making and execution. He highlights the emergence of new, unpredictable, and difficult-to-control risks that can arise from the interaction between systems. He also emphasizes concerns about manipulation and cybersecurity, since AI can both protect and attack. This scenario challenges traditional risk management practices. In response, he suggests continuous monitoring, controls focused on detection and rapid response, and reinforcing human responsibility. Despite the benefits, understanding these new risks has become essential. Tune in to the podcast to learn more!

Neste episódio, Ricardo aborda como a inteligência artificial está transformando o gerenciamento de projetos ao deixar de ser apenas uma ferramenta e passar a atuar como agente ativo nas decisões e na execução. Ele destaca o surgimento de riscos emergentes, imprevisíveis e difíceis de controlar, que podem surgir da interação entre sistemas. Também enfatiza preocupações com manipulação e cibersegurança, já que a IA pode tanto proteger quanto atacar. Esse cenário desafia práticas tradicionais de gestão de riscos. Como resposta, ele sugere monitoramento contínuo, controles focados em detecção e resposta rápida e o reforço da responsabilidade humana. Apesar dos benefícios, compreender esses novos riscos tornou-se essencial. Ouça o episódio completo para saber mais!

What does John Tory think about Bradford’s plan? Short people at concerts - is there any hope? GUESTS: John Tory – former Mayor of Toronto Eric Alper - Canadian music journalist and publicist Kumi Jinadasa - Senior Engineer, Program Management with the Canadian Space Agency

In this episode, Ricardo discusses anxiety in project management, a subtle yet pervasive risk that undermines performance. Constant urgency creates pressure-driven cultures in which clarity fades, and teams react rather than think. Under anxiety, decision quality declines: people choose speed over sound judgment, avoid difficult conversations, hesitate to escalate issues, and mistake activity for real progress. Overwhelm also causes risk blindness, with warning signs ignored and problems delayed. Organizations often respond by increasing control through more meetings and reporting, which only intensifies the cycle. To address this, leaders must acknowledge anxiety as systemic, slow down critical decisions, and foster psychological safety so issues surface early. Ultimately, projects depend on people, and sustained pressure leads to poorer outcomes and reduces long-term value and well-being. Tune in to the podcast to learn more!

Neste episódio, Ricardo discute a ansiedade na gestão de projetos, um risco sutil, porém generalizado, que prejudica o desempenho. A urgência constante cria culturas orientadas pela pressão, nas quais a clareza se perde e as equipes reagem em vez de pensar. Sob ansiedade, a qualidade das decisões diminui: as pessoas priorizam a velocidade em detrimento do bom senso, evitam conversas difíceis, hesitam em escalar problemas e confundem atividade com progresso real. A sobrecarga também causa cegueira ao risco, com sinais de alerta ignorados e problemas adiados. As organizações frequentemente respondem aumentando o controle por meio de mais reuniões e relatórios, o que apenas intensifica o ciclo. Para lidar com isso, os líderes devem reconhecer a ansiedade como sistêmica, desacelerar as decisões críticas e promover a segurança psicológica para que os problemas venham à tona precocemente. Em última análise, os projetos dependem das pessoas, e a pressão constante leva a resultados piores e reduz o valor e o bem-estar a longo prazo. Ouça o episódio completo para saber mais!

In this episode, Ricardo discusses the growing use of AI agents in projects and highlights an essential point: decisions can be automated, but responsibility remains human. Tools such as collaborative platforms and automation engines already perform tasks, prioritize activities, and interact with stakeholders autonomously. Despite their efficiency, there is an illusion that responsibility can also be transferred to AI, which is not true. In case of error, the responsibility falls on whoever designed the system. Thus, the manager's role evolves, it goes from simply executing to designing decision-making systems, defining limits, and validating logic. The recommendation is clear: automate tasks, support decisions, but never delegate responsibility. Tune in to the podcast to learn more!

Neste episódio, Ricardo aborda o crescente uso de agentes de IA nos projetos e destaca um ponto essencial: decisões podem ser automatizadas, mas a responsabilidade continua sendo humana. Ferramentas como plataformas colaborativas e motores de automação já executam tarefas, priorizam atividades e interagem com stakeholders de forma autônoma. Apesar da eficiência, surge a ilusão de que a responsabilidade também pode ser transferida à IA, o que não é verdade. Em caso de erro, a responsabilidade recai sobre quem projetou o sistema. Assim, o papel do gestor evolui, deixa de apenas executar e passa a desenhar sistemas de decisão, definir limites e validar lógicas. A recomendação é clara: automatize tarefas, apoie decisões, mas nunca delegue a responsabilidade. Ouça o episódio completo para saber mais!

In this episode, Ricardo explains that projects age not only over time but also when they lose energy, relevance, and purpose. Many continue to be taken for granted, even as markets, technology, and priorities change. He warns that past investments do not justify continuing, as they do not guarantee future value. Signs of aging include a lack of clarity about the purpose, low team motivation, and decisions based on outdated assumptions. Reviewing or even ending a project is not a failure, but demonstrates leadership. Maintaining “zombie” projects consumes valuable resources. Therefore, leaders must continually assess whether the project remains viable, delivers value, and aligns with current realities. Listen to the podcast to learn more!

Neste episódio, Ricardo explica que projetos também envelhecem, não apenas com o tempo, mas também quando perdem energia, relevância e propósito. Muitos continuam sem questionar, mesmo diante de mudanças no mercado, na tecnologia e nas prioridades. Ele alerta que investimentos passados não justificam continuar, pois não garantem valor futuro. Sinais de envelhecimento incluem falta de clareza quanto ao propósito, baixa motivação da equipe e decisões baseadas em premissas antigas. Revisar ou até encerrar um projeto não é um fracasso, e sim demonstra liderança. Manter projetos “zumbis” consome recursos valiosos. Por isso, líderes devem avaliar constantemente se o projeto ainda faz sentido, gera valor e está alinhado à realidade atual. Escute o podcast para saber mais!

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Jane: If something goes poorly, I'm like, okay, how can we fix this?Rob: I don't really accept constraints... I want to always find a way around the issue.Imagine a drive-thru where you can order your favorite coffee with a single app click, arrive at the pickup spot, and leave in seconds—no line, no waiting, no tipping. This seamless experience is the vision of Jane Lo and Rob Whitten, co-founders of p!ng, a fully automated drive-thru system designed to solve the inefficiencies of traditional drive-thrus.The idea was born out of frustration. Rob, a robotics expert and father of three, described how bad drive-thru experiences with his daughters inspired the project. “My three daughters made me go through a bunch of drive-throughs. It was a terrible experience, and Jane told me to stop complaining one day and just fix it,” he shared. Jane, a marketing and customer experience expert, immediately saw the potential. Together, they combined their skills to create what Rob calls “the nerd's revenge for bad drive-throughs.”The technology behind p!ng is as impressive as its simplicity. Customers use an app to place their orders, which are prepared only when they approach the pickup location. Sensors and geofencing track vehicles, ensuring orders are ready precisely when needed. Rob explained, “We wanted you to leave p!ng feeling victorious and like you're living in the future. It's nice and simple on the surface, but underneath, there's a bunch of really cool tech happening.”Jane and Rob's innovative system is already making waves among consumers, who appreciate the speed and ease of the experience. “Our customers were like, ‘This is amazing. Why doesn't this already exist?'” Jane said. Yet, traditional venture capitalists often didn't understand the scope of the problem. “If you're someone wealthier, you probably have an assistant or a fancy espresso machine. You're not likely to be in that drive-thru lane,” she explained.To fund their vision of revolutionizing drive-thru convenience, the pair turned to regulated investment crowdfunding on Wefunder, where everyday people can invest in their mission. “It's awesome because good customers make great investors and vice versa,” Rob noted.By combining cutting-edge robotics with a deep understanding of customer needs, Jane and Rob aren't just solving a problem—they're creating an entirely new experience. p!ng shows how innovation and impact can work hand in hand to redefine convenience.tl;dr:Jane Lo and Rob Whitten founded p!ng to create a frictionless, fully automated drive-thru experience.They combined expertise in robotics and customer experience to revolutionize how people get coffee.Traditional VCs didn't see the problem, so they turned to crowdfunding to fund their vision.Jane's adaptability and Rob's determination to overcome constraints drive their ability to innovate.p!ng's technology simplifies the customer experience while showcasing the potential of robotics.How to Develop Adaptability and Problem Solving As a SuperpowerJane and Rob's superpowers center on adaptability and a refusal to accept limits. Jane describes herself as an “adapter,” someone who embraces change and thrives in uncertain situations. “If something goes poorly, I'm like, okay, how can we fix this?” she explained. Rob, on the other hand, described his ability to challenge constraints: “I don't really accept constraints... I want to always find a way around the issue.” Together, these superpowers enable them to tackle challenges head-on and innovate in ways others might overlook.When Jane was recovering from hip replacement surgery, she adapted by learning to solder at home so she could contribute to p!ng's pilot project. “We made like a hundred of them or something,” she said, referring to the wiring components she assembled. Meanwhile, Rob shared his story of running a two-football-field-long hose to solve a water shortage during a robotics test at Amazon, demonstrating his determination to overcome obstacles quickly and creatively.Tips for Developing the Superpower:Push your boundaries by tackling things you fear or find uncomfortable.Embrace change as an opportunity for growth rather than something to avoid.Interrogate constraints instead of accepting them—ask “how can I solve this?” rather than “can I?”Use AI tools creatively to brainstorm and find out-of-the-box solutions.Focus on the next step instead of dwelling on failures or setbacks.By following Jane and Rob's example and advice, you can make adaptability and problem solving a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Invest in Ending Organ Shortages!Guest ProfileJane Lo (she/her):Co-founder, p!ngAbout p!ng: p!ng is the fastest autonomous coffee drive-thru in the galaxy — a compact, robotics and AI-powered pod that serves premium specialty drinks in under a minute with virtually no wait and a radically better customer experience. Designed by veterans of Amazon Robotics, iRobot, and SharkNinja, p!ng delivers the speed, consistency, and convenience today's on-the-go consumers crave, whether that's during the chaotic morning rush or afternoon beverage side quest.Website: pingthru.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/pingthrucoffeeCompany Instagram Handle: @pingthrucoffee Other URL: wefunder.com/pingBiographical Information: I grew up in the Bay Area and after graduating from UC Berkeley, began my career in healthcare consulting and biotech. These experiences made one thing clear: I wanted to work as close to the end consumer as possible. I returned to school to earn my MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, then moved into product marketing, brand marketing, and media production for consumer brands including Samsonite and SharkNinja. I met Rob, my co-founder, at SharkNinja, working on the same kitchen appliances development team. I found my true passion in Customer Experience analytics at Forrester Research, heading up a team of analysts and working as an advisor to Fortune 500 executives. I used data to show companies how well they are delivering for customers (or not), and what they could do to improve. Over time, I realized that even with good intentions and well-resourced teams, many companies struggle to create real change. Today, I use my love of working with and understanding customers to build joy-inducing experiences that make everyday life better.LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jane-lo-pingRob Whitten (he/him)Co-founder, p!ngBiographical Information: Rob Whitten is the co‑founder of p!ng, the wicked fast robotic coffee drive‑thru. Raised in Loudon, NH, he attended West Point and served as an Army infantry officer before settling in Billerica, MA in 2004.With a degree in Systems Engineering and a Master's in Program Management, Rob has spent his career solving complex problems across defense, consumer electronics, and e‑commerce. He has led high‑performing teams at BAE Systems, iRobot, SharkNinja, and Amazon Robotics, working on projects including autonomous manipulation, robotics sortation, and grocery automation.In 2023, frustrated by long drive‑thru experiences with his daughters, he co‑founded p!ng to reinvent the model through automation.Outside of work, Rob enjoys riding his Harley with Jane, competing in triathlons, skiing, hiking, traveling, cooking, and crafting epic Star Wars lawn decorations.LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rob-whitten-pingthruInvest in Career Success!Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include rHealth, Frontier Bio, and Rise Up at Work. 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Upgrade to Impact Membership today!SuperCrowdHour March: This month, Devin Thorpe will explore how investors can align profit with purpose in a powerful session titled “Why You Should Make Money with Impact Crowdfunding.” As CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., Devin will share practical insights on generating financial returns while driving measurable social and environmental impact through regulated investment crowdfunding. Register free to get all the details. March 18th at Noon ET/9:00 PT.SuperCrowd26 featuring PurposeBuilt100™: This August 25–27, founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders will gather for a three-day, broadcast-quality global experience focused on disciplined capital formation, regulated investment crowdfunding, and purpose-driven growth. We're bringing together leading voices in impact investing, compliance, digital marketing, and circular economy innovation to deliver practical frameworks, real-world case studies, and actionable strategies. The event culminates in the PurposeBuilt100™ Showcase, recognizing 100 of the fastest-growing purpose-driven companies in the U.S. Register now to secure your seat and get all the details. August 25–27, streaming worldwide.Share the application for the PurposeBuilt100™: Purpose-driven founders deserve recognition. The PurposeBuilt100™ application window is now open—celebrating the fastest-growing companies building profit with purpose. If you know a founder creating real impact and real growth, please share this opportunity. Applications are free and confidential. Explore the program and apply today: PurposeBuilt100.com.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Nominate your MedTech, BioTech or Life Sciences company for the prestigious TAG Awards. The deadline is quickly approaching! Apply before March 13! Use the discount code SUPERPOWER to save 20%!Save the Date! 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In this episode, Ricardo discusses the importance of maintaining rhythm, not hysteria, for projects to be sustainable. He explains that many organizations confuse productivity with a chaotic environment full of emergencies, constant meetings, and changing priorities. This scenario only creates the sensation of movement but doesn't guarantee real progress. For Ricardo, rhythm means consistency, cadence, and continuous advancement with focus and energy, while hysteria puts the project in a permanent state of emergency. This generates fatigue, worsens decision-making, and reduces the quality of work. He emphasizes that projects are made by people and that exhausted teams lose motivation and make more mistakes. Therefore, leaders must define clear priorities, respect the team's capacity, and create a sustainable environment to achieve consistent results. Listen to the podcast to learn more about!

Neste episódio, Ricardo fala sobre a importância de manter ritmo, e não histeria, para que os projetos sejam sustentáveis. Ele explica que muitas organizações confundem produtividade com um ambiente caótico, cheio de urgências, reuniões constantes e mudanças de prioridade. Esse cenário cria apenas a sensação de movimento, mas não garante progresso real. Para Ricardo, ritmo significa consistência, cadência e avanço contínuo com foco e energia, enquanto a histeria coloca o projeto em estado permanente de emergência. Isso gera cansaço, piora as decisões e reduz a qualidade do trabalho. Ele destaca que projetos são feitos por pessoas e que equipes exaustas perdem motivação e cometem mais erros. Por isso, líderes devem definir prioridades claras, respeitar a capacidade do time e criar um ambiente sustentável para alcançar resultados consistentes. Escute o podcast para saber mais!

In this episode, Ricardo Vargas celebrates International Women's Day while reflecting on the importance of diversity in projects. He explains that projects often fail not because of technical issues but because teams fall into uniform thinking, where everyone analyzes risks and decisions from the same perspective. Complex projects require contrasting viewpoints, experiences, and interpretations. The participation of women strengthens decision-making, risk analysis, communication, and stakeholder engagement. Ricardo emphasizes that diversity is not only about fairness but about performance, collective intelligence, and better results. When women can fully participate, challenging ideas, leading, and influencing decisions, projects become more robust and complete. He concludes that real inclusion means ensuring women's voices are heard and that diversity should be treated as a fundamental condition for delivering better projects. Listen to the podcast to learn more about!

Neste episódio, Ricardo celebra o Dia Internacional da Mulher refletindo sobre a importância da diversidade em projetos. Ele explica que muitos projetos fracassam não por problemas técnicos, mas pelo group thinking, quando todos pensam da mesma forma e deixam de questionar decisões. Projetos complexos precisam de diferentes perspectivas, experiências e formas de interpretar riscos. Nesse contexto, a participação das mulheres contribui para melhorar a qualidade das decisões, a comunicação e o relacionamento com stakeholders. Ricardo destaca que diversidade não é apenas uma questão de justiça, mas de desempenho e inteligência coletiva. Quando mulheres têm espaço para participar, liderar, questionar e influenciar, os projetos tornam-se mais robustos. Ele conclui incentivando líderes a tratar a diversidade como um fator essencial para alcançar melhores resultados em projetos. Escute o podcast para saber mais!

In this episode, Ricardo explains that many projects fail not because of technical issues, but because the global context changes during execution. Elections, wars, sanctions, and trade tensions can shift priorities, block suppliers, and unexpectedly increase costs. Geopolitics goes beyond armed conflicts; it includes global supply chains, interest rates, exchange rates, and environmental regulations. Trade restrictions can halt infrastructure projects, export limitations can delay the delivery of critical equipment, and regional conflicts can raise material costs. Higher interest rates affect project financing, while currency fluctuations can quickly make contracts unviable. Regulatory changes also impact scope and timelines. So, project managers must include macroeconomic risks in planning, work with multiple scenarios, and involve leadership when the context changes to stay aligned with strategy in a globally unstable environment. Listen to the podcast to learn more!

Neste episódio, Ricardo explica que muitos projetos falham não por problemas técnicos, mas porque o contexto global muda durante a execução. Eleições, guerras, sanções e tensões comerciais podem alterar prioridades, bloquear fornecedores e elevar custos inesperadamente. Geopolítica vai além de conflitos armados: inclui cadeias globais de suprimento, taxas de juros, câmbio e regulações ambientais. Restrições comerciais podem paralisar obras, limitar exportações e encarecer materiais. A alta dos juros afeta o financiamento, e variações cambiais podem tornar contratos inviáveis rapidamente. Mudanças regulatórias também impactam escopo e prazos. Por isso, o gerente de projetos deve considerar riscos macroeconômicos, trabalhar com cenários e envolver a liderança quando o contexto muda, garantindo alinhamento estratégico em um ambiente de instabilidade global. Escute o podcast para aprender mais!

What does a Technical Program Manager actually do & and why is the role so often misunderstood?In this episode of Dev Life, Brooke and Matt go inside Technical Program Management — unpacking the misconceptions, the mindset shift from engineer to TPM, and how engineers can work more effectively with the role.We explore:• What a TPM really owns (and what they don't)• Where engineers misunderstand the role• Fair criticisms TPMs need to hear• What great TPM support actually feels like• Staying technical without writing production code• When making the switch makes sense — and when it doesn'tWhether you're considering the move to TPM or simply want to collaborate better with one, this conversation brings clarity to one of the most misunderstood roles in tech.CONNECT WITH US:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jedibravery/https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewbchristiansen/Follow us onX: @DevLifePodcastX: @AngularShowBluesky: @theangularplusshow.bsky.socialThe Angular Plus Show and The DevLIfe Podcast are a part of ng-conf. ng-conf is a multi-day Angular conference focused on delivering the highest quality training in the Angular JavaScript framework. Developers from across the globe converge  every year to attend talks and workshops by the Angular team and community experts.JoinAttendXBluesky        ReadWatchStock media provided by JUQBOXMUSIC/ Pond5

In this episode, Ricardo explains that the true enemy of a project is not risk, but illusion. Although teams dedicate significant effort to risk management—creating registers, assessing probability and impact, and defining mitigation plans—many failures arise from collective self-deception. Unrealistic schedules, underestimated budgets, and overly ambitious scopes are often accepted to satisfy expectations and gain approval. Unlike uncertainty, which is natural in complex environments, illusion is culturally constructed and reinforced by pressure, incentives, and overconfidence. The planning fallacy drives teams to underestimate time and cost. Effective project leadership means confronting illusions early, making trade-offs explicit, and protecting reality. Projects fail not because of known risks, but because uncomfortable truths are ignored. Listen to the podcast to learn more!

Neste episódio, Ricardo afirma que o verdadeiro inimigo de um projeto não é o risco, mas a ilusão. Embora dediquemos muito esforço à gestão de riscos, muitos fracassos decorrem do autoengano coletivo: cronogramas otimistas e irreais, orçamentos ajustados para viabilizar o business case e escopos sustentáveis apenas no papel. Diferente da incerteza, que é natural em ambientes complexos, a ilusão é construída pela cultura organizacional e pela pressão por aprovação e velocidade. A falácia do planejamento nos leva a subestimar prazos e custos por incentivos e excesso de confiança. Liderança em projetos não é agradar, mas proteger a realidade, explicitar trade-offs e confrontar ilusões cedo. Projetos fracassam não pelo que sabemos, mas pelo que escolhemos ignorar. Escute o podcast para saber mais!

Cisco is bringing renewed focus to wireless certifications — and major updates are coming in March 2026. In this episode of the Cisco Learning Network Podcast, Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Tanner Swift sits down with Andrew Richter, Content Engineering and Program Management lead focused on Wireless and Enterprise Networking, to discuss what's changing across the wireless certification track. Together, they break down the introduction of the new Wireless Core exam, updates to the CCNP Wireless pathway, changes to the CCIE Wireless practical exam, and what these updates mean for current certification holders. They also explore why these changes are happening now, how industry feedback shaped the new direction, and where learners can find study resources to prepare. Whether you're already working toward a wireless certification or just curious about where Cisco wireless learning is headed, this episode gives you the context and clarity you need to navigate the road ahead.

During Carnival week in Brazil, Ricardo connects celebration with project management. Carnival, one of the world's largest cultural events, symbolizes creativity, energy, discipline, and months of preparation. Behind the music and parades lies structured planning, budgeting, rehearsals, and well-defined roles—just like in projects. However, in professional life, teams often move from one milestone to another without celebrating achievements. Projects demand resilience, discipline, and sacrifice, and each victory deserves recognition. Celebrating is not a waste of time; it's emotional fuel. It reinforces positive behaviors, strengthens the sense of belonging, reduces burnout, and highlights progress. Just like in Carnival, successful projects deliver results and build stronger, more motivated teams along the way. Listen to the podcast to learn more!

Durante a semana do Carnaval no Brasil, Ricardo relaciona celebração e gestão de projetos. O Carnaval, uma das maiores manifestações culturais do mundo, simboliza criatividade, energia, disciplina e meses de preparação. Por trás da música e dos desfiles existe planejamento estruturado, orçamento, ensaios e papéis bem definidos — assim como nos projetos. Porém, na vida profissional, as equipes frequentemente passam de um marco a outro sem celebrar conquistas. Projetos exigem resiliência, disciplina e sacrifício, e cada vitória merece reconhecimento. Celebrar não é perda de tempo; é combustível emocional. Reforça comportamentos positivos, fortalece o senso de pertencimento, reduz o esgotamento e evidencia o progresso. Assim como no Carnaval, projetos bem-sucedidos entregam resultados e constroem equipes mais fortes e motivadas ao longo da jornada. Escute o podcast para saber mais!

In this episode, Ricardo presents Cloud Cowork, an agentic AI model from Anthropic that goes far beyond traditional conversational assistants. It is designed to execute complete tasks within real contexts such as files, folders, documents, reports, and workflows. Ricardo highlights its strong applicability to project management and other forms of structured knowledge work, where a large amount of time is spent on operational activities like organizing documents, consolidating data, reviewing information, and preparing reports. By delegating these tasks to an AI agent that plans and executes work in a structured way, professionals can shift their focus from execution to orchestration, decision-making, and strategy. Speaking as a satisfied user with no affiliation to Anthropic, Ricardo strongly recommends testing Cloud Cowork to understand the real impact of agentic AI on projects, PMOs, and organizations. Catch the full episode to learn more!

Neste episódio, Ricardo apresenta o Cloud Cowork, um modelo de agente de IA da Anthropic que vai muito além dos assistentes conversacionais tradicionais. Ele foi projetado para executar tarefas completas em contextos reais, como arquivos, pastas, documentos, relatórios e fluxos de trabalho. Ricardo destaca sua forte aplicabilidade ao gerenciamento de projetos e outras formas de trabalho intelectual estruturado, em que grande parte do tempo é gasta em atividades operacionais como organizar documentos, consolidar dados, revisar informações e preparar relatórios. Ao delegar essas tarefas a um agente de IA que planeja e executa o trabalho de forma estruturada, os profissionais podem mudar o foco da execução para a orquestração, a tomada de decisões e a estratégia. Falando como um usuário satisfeito, sem qualquer vínculo com a Anthropic, Ricardo recomenda fortemente testar o Cloud Cowork para entender o impacto real dos agentes de IA em projetos, PMOs e organizações. Ouça o episódio e confira todos os detalhes!

In this episode, we're joined by Deepika Manglani, VP of Product and Program Management at the LA Times. Deepika's career in media spans over 15 years, culminating in her current role, where she's bringing the 140-year-old institution into the future. In this episode, Deepika shares: How her team is using AI to preserve a unique trove of historical data, over 12 million pages of news archives from as far back as the 1800s What this digital archive and maturation of AI enables for future storytelling, media innovation, and news personalization Why combining product and program management was critical to navigating massive transformation at the LA Times through a period of heavy M&A activity Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deepikamanglani/ LA Times: https://www.latimes.com/ Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:15 Deepika's career journey in media and product leadership 01:25 Building from scratch at LA Times 05:06 Digitizing historical archives 08:40 Challenges and innovations in AI and OCR 19:54 Future prospects and personalization in news 24:33 Conclusion Follow LaunchPod on YouTube We have a new YouTube page! Watch full episodes of our interviews with PM leaders and subscribe! What does LogRocket do? LogRocket's Galileo AI watches user sessions for you and surfaces the technical and usability issues holding back your web and mobile apps. Understand where your users are struggling by trying it for free at LogRocket.com.Special Guest: Deepika Manglani.

AlabamaGovernor Ivey supports two companion bills that address public safetyThe ALGOP steering committee rejects residency challenges against Tommy Tuberville and John Wahl as they run for state officesA lawsuit is filed against 3 employees at Trinity child center re: recent sex abuse arrestTuskegee basketball coach hires lawyers after he was cuffed at Atlanta gameMajor General Terry Grisham to lead Program Management at SpaceCOMNationalFederal judge seeks to stop DHS from ending Temporary Status for HaitiansPresident Trump and India Prime Minister reach trade deal to end tariffsSAVE Act to be brought to a vote on Senate floor according to John ThuneWSJ to publish hit pieces against DNI's Gabbard after FBI raid in GAThe Clintons say they are NOW willing tobe deposed by House Oversight committee to avoid contempt chargesBen Swann says the latest Jeffrey Epstein doc release completely vindicates his report on "Pizza Gate" from 10 years ago

In this episode, Ricardo explains the difference between Generative AI, AI Agents, and Agentic AI—topics that are widely discussed but often misunderstood. He draws on a clear explanation by Filipa Peleja, presented during the O'Reilly Super Stream on Generative AI. Generative AI, based on large language models, responds to prompts and produces text, ideas, and analysis, but it has no initiative, goals, or independent decision-making. AI Agents, on the other hand, are given a goal and can plan tasks, use tools, interact with systems, and execute actions in sequence, with operational autonomy within defined rules. Finally, Agentic AI involves systems of agents working together, with memory, adaptability, and evolving strategies, raising major challenges around governance, ethics, and accountability. Catch the full episode to learn more!

Neste episódio, Ricardo esclarece a diferença entre IA Generativa, Agentes de IA e IA Agêntica, um tema muito falado, mas ainda confuso. Ele se inspira em uma explicação de Filipa Peleja, apresentada no O'Reilly Super Stream sobre IA Generativa. A IA Generativa, baseada em modelos de linguagem, responde a prompts e produz textos, ideias e análises, mas não tem iniciativa, objetivos ou tomada de decisão própria. Já os Agentes de IA recebem um objetivo e conseguem planejar tarefas, usar ferramentas, interagir com sistemas e executar ações em sequência, com autonomia operacional dentro de regras definidas. Por fim, a IA Agêntica envolve sistemas de agentes que cooperam, possuem memória, se adaptam e ajustam estratégias, trazendo desafios de governança, ética e responsabilidade. Ouça o episódio e confira todos os detalhes!

In this episode, Ricardo analyzes the 21st edition of the World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report 2026, highlighting the end of predictability and the beginning of the so-called "era of competition." The report points to a more turbulent global scenario, with 50% of leaders predicting instability in the next two years, driven by geoeconomic confrontation that threatens global supply chains. Ricardo explains that in the economic field, high global debt and increased spending on defense, energy transition, and artificial intelligence make capital more expensive and scarcer, requiring extreme financial rigor in projects. Misinformation intensifies social polarization. As a strategic response, the report proposes a "coalition of the willing": moving forward with truly committed groups, without waiting for total consensus. Listen to the podcast to learn more!

Neste episódio, Ricardo analisa a 21ª edição do Relatório de Riscos Globais 2026, do Fórum Econômico Mundial, destacando o fim da previsibilidade e o início da chamada “era da competição”. O relatório aponta um cenário global mais turbulento, com 50% dos líderes prevendo instabilidade nos próximos dois anos, impulsionada pela confrontação geoeconômica, que ameaça cadeias globais de suprimentos. Ricardo explica que no campo econômico, o elevado endividamento global e o aumento dos gastos com defesa, transição energética e inteligência artificial tornam o capital mais caro e escasso, exigindo rigor financeiro extremo nos projetos. A desinformação intensifica a polarização social. Como resposta estratégica, o relatório propõe a “coalizão dos dispostos”: avançar com grupos realmente comprometidos, sem esperar consenso total. Escute o podcast para aprender mais!

In this episode, Ricardo warns against a common mistake in organizations: believing that more tools and software mean more maturity. Many companies invest in expensive platforms, dashboards, and impeccable reports, but continue to make poor decisions. Tools don't create maturity; they only highlight what already exists. If there is no prioritization, clear criteria, and decisions, technology only organizes the confusion. Teams end up spending more time feeding systems than thinking about projects. Abundant indicators do not compensate for the absence of priorities. Maturity is not about having the best software, but about knowing who decides, based on what criteria, and what changes when something deviates from the plan. Without this, any tool becomes just a digital ornament. Listen to the podcast to learn more!

Neste episódio, Ricardo alerta para um erro comum nas organizações: acreditar que mais ferramentas e softwares significam mais maturidade. Muitas empresas investem em plataformas caras, dashboards e relatórios impecáveis, mas continuam tomando decisões ruins. Ferramentas não criam maturidade; elas apenas evidenciam o que já existe. Se não há priorização, critérios claros e decisões, a tecnologia só organiza a confusão. Times acabam gastando mais tempo alimentando sistemas do que pensando nos projetos. Indicadores abundantes não compensam a ausência de prioridades. Maturidade não é ter o melhor software, mas saber quem decide, com base em quais critérios e o que muda quando algo sai do plano. Sem isso, qualquer ferramenta vira apenas um enfeite digital. Escute o podcast para aprender mais!

In this episode, Ricardo reflects on his participation at CES 2026 through the lens of project management, highlighting a structural shift rather than new gadgets. Using LEGO's smart bricks as an analogy, he explains how projects today extend, not replace, traditional foundations by integrating data, AI, and digital capabilities. He highlights Project AVA, a holographic AI advisor, as an example of projects becoming complex ecosystems where hardware, software, data, governance, ethics, and security must work in harmony. From AI-powered consumer products to robotaxis like Zoox, projects now continue beyond delivery into ongoing operation. Ricardo concludes that project managers are evolving into value orchestrators who connect technological possibilities with meaningful, responsible value for organizations and society. Listen to the podcast to learn more!

In the first episode of 2026, Ricardo warns about the biggest mistake that ruins projects early in the year: saying yes to everything. January brings optimism, pressure for fast results, and a belief that everything is possible, leading to overloaded portfolios and teams working far beyond capacity. Projects are planned under unrealistic assumptions, confusing hope with real capacity. Failures don't happen at the end of the year, but at the beginning, when wrong choices are made. Strong projects start with focus, tough decisions, and renunciation. The key question is not what to start, but what not to do. Saying no early is less painful than canceling projects later. Projects fail not due to a lack of ideas, but an excess of promises. Listen to the podcast to learn more!