Developing the Powers Within

Our guest today is James Phillips, an Informatics Analyst at Altamed and a dynamic leader with a rich and diverse background spanning communications, public relations, marketing, project management, medical coding, and healthcare informatics. James has been intentional about his professional development throughout his career. At every step, his sharp self-assessment has inspired him to acquire new skills, pursue additional degrees, and earn valuable certifications. Over time, he has built an impressive "super suit" of project management skills and expertise—a journey reminiscent of Tony Stark crafting his Ironman suit! What makes James truly remarkable, however, is his generosity in sharing his knowledge with aspiring project managers. He’s passionate about helping others identify their own paths and empowering them to navigate their personal PM journeys. Today, James will share his insights on how to determine if project management is the right career for you and how to chart a successful path forward in this dynamic field. Show Notes: :30 – Meet James Phillips Learn about James Phillips, an informatics analyst and dynamic leader with expertise spanning healthcare informatics, PR, marketing, project management, and medical coding. Discover how to know if you’re cut out to be a PMP (Project Management Professional) and how to connect with resources for certification. 2:31 – Started Out in Hawaii James shares his roots in Hawaii and how they shaped his early journey. 3:00 – The 9th Island of Hawaii Discover why UNLV (University of Nevada, Las Vegas) is considered the 9th island of Hawaii and how it became part of James’s story. 4:00 – Beginnings in PR & Marketing James reflects on his early career in public relations and marketing, where glitz and glamour weren’t always what they seemed. 7:00 – Transition to Medical Coding How James shifted to medical coding and discovered his passion for healthcare informatics. 8:30 – What Is Medical Health Systems Coding? James explains the role of medical health systems coding and its importance in the healthcare industry. 9:54 – What Is Project Management? What does a project manager do, and how can you start your career in this field? James shares his insights. 11:00 – Choosing Your Industry Tips on how to choose the right industry for your skills and interests, based on James’s experience. 17:30 – Lean Six Sigma Certification James discusses his Lean Six Sigma certification and its value for project managers. 19:00 – What Certifications Should You Get as a PM? Explore the certifications that James recommends for project managers to excel in their careers. 20:00 – Work-Life Balance and Skills Balance James shares his approach to balancing work, life, and skills development. 21:00 – Color Blocking: Scheduling for Balance Learn how James uses color blocking and time management techniques to maintain work-life balance. 22:00 – Time Blocking in Your Calendar Tips on effectively managing your time and prioritizing tasks with time blocking. 24:00 – Getting Involved in Your PMI Chapter The benefits of engaging with your local Project Management Institute (PMI) chapter