PODCAST · business
Project Zero
by Alex Tuck
From first steps to best practices — stories that shaped project leaders.Project Zero is a podcast for project managers — and the PM-curious — who want more than frameworks and certifications. Each episode features a project leader, highlighting first projects and the pivotal lessons that shaped their approach to leadership, collaboration, and delivery. From unexpected missteps to breakthrough moments, these conversations reveal what it really takes to grow into a confident, competent project manager. It’s honest, insightful, and designed to help you lead better — whether you're managing your first task or your hundredth milestone.
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S2 Episode 12: Project Management Practice on the Line to the Lead with Tyler Norman
Host Alex Tuck introduces Tyler Norman, Director of Strategic Programs at Scholastic and a frequent PMI speaker, who shares his 17-year PM journey from construction and energy into supply-chain transformation programs like warehouse robotics and tech-stack upgrades. Norman’s “Project Zero” comes from working as a teenager in a small-town bar and grill, where he identified a fryer bottleneck, quantified lost revenue, built a rough business case for a second fryer, coordinated installation, and validated benefits, later recognizing it as early project management. He discusses limited formal PM education in undergrad, multiple PMI certifications, and current work toward CPM AI. Norman highlights practical AI value in automating admin work (emails, Excel, decks, meeting summaries) to free time for stakeholder engagement, argues layoffs are often broader business context, and emphasizes empathy, stakeholder management, and business value as key PM skills. 00:00 Season Two Kickoff 00:25 Meet Tyler Norman 02:18 From Construction to Books 04:24 Transferable PM Skills 06:16 Defining Project Zero 07:00 Fryer Bottleneck Story 11:01 PM Education Path 12:53 Certifications and CPM AI 14:36 AI for PM Workflows 21:50 AI Job Impact and Upskilling 25:02 Most Important PM Skill 27:40 Career Advice and Wrap Up Connect with Tyler Norman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-norman/ Website: navigatewithpurpose.com Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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S2 Episode 11: Coaching the Next-Gen Project Managers with Orlando Sequera
Host Alex Tuck welcomes listeners to season two of Project Zero, with a greater focus on AI’s impact, and interviews project manager and PMP coach Orlando Sequera. Sequera shares how he fell into project management after years in IT, including an early asset inventory project that failed due to neglected scope and lack of formal PM discipline, motivating him to pursue a master’s in project management at Boston University and earn the PMP. He contrasts structured PMP training (35 hours of PMI-required content) with coaching that builds the mindset and critical thinking needed for evolving, more situational PMP exam questions, including AI topics. Sequera emphasizes leadership and emotional intelligence as key PM skills, servant leadership in practice, and AI’s role in automating documentation, meeting notes, and change management while keeping PM accountability with the human. 00:00 Season Two Kickoff 00:38 Orlando’s PM Journey 02:37 Trainer vs Coach 05:19 Mindset for the PMP 07:31 First Project Failure 10:37 Learning Scope and Structure 12:05 Formal Education and PMP 14:53 Why PMs Matter 17:10 Top PM Skill Leadership 20:53 Servant Leadership Stories 24:05 AI in Project Management 31:09 Advice to Younger Orlando 33:16 Connect and Closing Connect with Orlando Sequera LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orlando-sequera-3414478/ Website: www.mydynamicpm.comConnect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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S2 Episode 10: The Secret to Perfect Project Timing with Claudia Wright
Host Alex Tuck welcomes IT program and project manager Claudia Wright to Project Zero season two. Wright shares her 25+ year path from data entry and administrative work at the EPA to database management, then coding (COBOL/DB2) at BellSouth, where frustration with “work thrown over the cubicle wall” pushed her toward business analysis and requirements. She became a project manager at a global grocery retailer, where her “Project Zero” involved enterprise work supporting store planograms and related systems, learning end-to-end delivery (resource planning, production turnovers, failback plans, signoffs) under a mentor, Cindy, who helped standardize templates and lessons learned. Wright’s key PM skill is “know your place,” adapting to organizational perceptions and leadership priorities, and she views AI as helpful for efficiency (e.g., note-taking) but not a “magic pill,” requiring planning and verification.00:00 Season Two Kickoff00:34 Claudia Career Origins04:01 Finding Project Management05:42 Sewing Meets Structure07:02 From Coding to Leading12:07 Technical Edge and Estimates15:08 Project Zero Story18:59 Mentorship and Lessons20:50 Know Your Place26:19 AI Is Not Magic29:37 Wrap Up and ConnectConnect with Claudia Wright LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudiawright-mba-pmp-cisa/ Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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S2 Episode 9: What CEOs are Actually Looking for in a Project Manager with Zack Tembi
On this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck welcomes Zack Tembi, CEO of Single Fin, a startup that supports the cybersecurity and infrastructure needs of Fortune 500/1000 companies. Tembi recounts his path from Roanoke College to early roles at Netuitive and as an early Splunk employee through its growth and Cisco acquisition, then founding Single Fin to prioritize customer outcomes and cut through AI “noise.” His “Project Zero” occurred during COVID while launching a major video game, during which a PM succeeded by calming stakeholders, code-switching between executive and engineering audiences, aligning technical work to strict uptime/capacity metrics, and unifying goals. Tembi describes Single Fin’s internal use of named AI agents with role-based access to scale operations, urging PMs to build skills by testing tools and exercising agency to implement practical AI use cases.00:00 Season Two Kickoff00:29 Meet Zack Tembi03:06 Startup Roots and College04:28 Early Career Lessons06:01 Splunk Growth Story07:08 Founding Single Fin08:35 AI Hype and Reality10:54 Project Zero Story12:18 Great PM Traits18:28 AI Agents for Work23:31 Cool AI Use Cases28:22 Where to Connect29:46 Closing ThanksConnect with Zack Tembi Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/single-fin-enterprises/ Weekly Newsletter Signup: https://ciosurge.beehiiv.com/subscribe Newsletter Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ciosurge/ Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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S2 Episode 8: Building an AI Coworker for Project Managers with Shawn Harris
Host Alex Tuck interviews Shawn Harris, CEO and co-founder of Co-Worked/Creative Harmony. Harris recounts his early career in technology at IBM while still an undergrad, later formalizing project management at TJX amid tight retail delivery windows and PMI-style rigor. His “Project Zero” centers on leading TJX’s migration of credit transaction processing from an outsourced provider to an in-house data center, emphasizing extensive cross-functional planning and cutover execution; he also contrasts enterprise delivery with consulting, where project control ties directly to profitability. Harris argues PMs benefit from entrepreneurial methods to build credibility and authority. He introduces Harmony, an agentic AI project manager that embeds into Microsoft 365, coordinates work across existing tools, follows up on tasks/risks, and generates status outputs so PMs can lead from “the balcony.” 00:00 Season Two Kickoff 00:40 Meet Shawn Harris 01:54 Early Career at IBM 03:18 Retail PM Rigor at TJX 06:21 Tech Upbringing and Gadgets 09:10 What Project Zero Means 09:40 Project Zero at TJX Cutover 16:20 Consulting vs Enterprise PM 20:57 Top Skill Entrepreneur Mindset 25:08 Harmony Agentic PM Overview 31:31 Why Tools Aren’t the Work Connect with Shawn Harris LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnharris/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coworkedai/ Company Website: https://coworked.ai/ Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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S2 Episode 7: Clearly Communicating Ambiguity as a Healthcare Consultant with Nigisty Lulu
Host Alex Tuck welcomes healthcare project management consultant Nigisty Lulu to discuss her career at the intersection of public health, healthcare operations, and health technology, and the season’s increased focus on AI. Nigisty shares how she was “thrown into” project management after college at Emory University’s neurology department, supporting healthcare initiatives and a telehealth launch that helped scale what became the Marcus Stroke Network. Her Project Zero centered on heavy stakeholder coordination, aligning differing expectations, and overcoming adoption resistance by improving change management through training, on-site support, office hours, and 24/7 access. She emphasizes that top PM skills include creating structure in ambiguous environments and understanding the “why” behind tasks. Both discuss AI automating logistics while elevating human judgment, prioritization, negotiation, and real-time strategy; Nigisty highlights using AI to build roadmaps and timelines. 00:00 Season Two Kickoff 00:37 Meet Nigisty Lulu 02:22 How She Became a PM 03:51 From Pre Med to Public Health 05:45 Born Organizer Mindset 07:18 Defining Project Zero 07:53 Scaling Emory Telehealth 11:35 Mentors and Learning Fast 13:17 Change Management Resistance 16:58 PM Skills and AI Future 23:34 AI Roadmaps and Prompts 26:47 Career Advice and Wrap Up Connect with Nigisty Lulu LinkedIn: Nigisty Lulu Email: [email protected] Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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S2 Episode 6: From Nonprofit Coordination to CRM Innovation with Megan Newman
Megan Newman on Building Humanitru, High-Stakes Healthcare Projects, and AI-Driven Customer Support Insights Host Alex Tuck opens season two of Project Zero with Megan Newman, co-founder and COO of Humanitru, to discuss her career shift from healthcare to nonprofit SaaS, the importance of systems and organization, and the evolving impact of AI. Megan explains how fragmented data systems in both EMRs and nonprofit fundraising tools inspired Humanitru’s integrated CRM and shares two “Project Zero” moments: coordinating complex care for a newly quadriplegic patient and building a startup from scratch, including demos, onboarding, implementation, and scaling operations after rapid hiring. She highlights critical thinking as the key skill for product managers, translating customer needs into technical specs, and describes an AI initiative using Google Gemini to improve support, surface ticket-driven product insights, and strengthen customer interest. 00:00 Season Two Kickoff 00:32 Meet Megan Newman 01:20 From Healthcare to Nonprofit Tech 03:23 Born Organized Systems 06:36 Corporate to Startup Shift 09:46 Defining Project Zero 10:26 Care Management High Stakes 14:17 Building Humanitru Playbooks 18:44 Product Managers Critical Thinking 21:44 Fundraising Data Prioritization 24:24 AI Support and Customer Insights 30:17 Wrap Up and Contact Connect with Megan Newman LinkedIn: Megan NewmanConnect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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S2 Episode 5: Coding Digital Prototypes through AI with Dave Reinhold
In this episode of Season 2 Project Zero, host Alex Tuck welcomes Dave Reinhold, founder of Venture CPO, a product management consultancy that helps clients build digital products from zero to one. They discuss why product and project management are often conflated and how the functions complement each other, with Dave framing project management as building things right and product management as building the right things. Dave shares his path from studying MIS and working as a technology auditor at Deloitte to discovering product management and moving into startups, where product managers often must also handle project work. He describes a formative early-2000s reporting/BI implementation at the International Securities Exchange and highlights the importance of relationships, communication, and attention to detail. They explore how AI is accelerating product work—especially requirements and “vibe coding” prototyping—while stressing the need for human judgment, and Dave cites healthcare AI as a particularly exciting use case. Dave closes with advice to his younger self to take more career risks, to learn to be comfortable in the unknown,00:00 Season Two Kickoff 00:30 Meet Dave Reinhold 01:10 Product vs Project 02:18 Origins in Tech 03:30 Discovering Product 04:51 Why Roles Blur 06:31 Defining Both Jobs 07:32 Project Zero Story 08:30 Reporting Build Lessons 10:34 Relationships Matter 13:03 Skills That Win 14:32 AI in Product Work 15:35 Vibe Coding Prototypes 22:09 AI Beyond Business 26:07 Career Advice and Wrap Connect with Dave Reinhold LinkedIn: Dave Reinhold Email: [email protected] Website: venturecpo.com Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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S2 Episode 4: Bridging the Gap Between Project Management and Product Management with Stan Ponder
Host Alex Tuck kicks off season two of Project Zero with Stan Ponder, Director of Product Management at Safety National, to explore project leader journeys and AI’s impact on the industry. Stan shares his path from fifth-grade teacher and elementary principal into learning and development, where he unknowingly practiced project management before moving into product management and building a product organization. He recounts two “Project Zero” lessons: overcommitting a team with no buffer (“building a boat with a hole in it”) and taking on work outside the team’s expertise, underscoring the value of instincts and early course correction. Stan highlights communication and transparent status reporting as the top skill, and discusses using AI agents to automate admin work like analysis and status reports so leaders can focus on relationships and removing roadblocks. 00:00 Season Two Kickoff 00:31 Meet Stan Ponder 01:50 From Teacher to PM 04:04 Born Organized 05:45 Project Zero Setup 06:20 Capacity Planning Wakeup 09:26 Trust Your Instincts 11:34 Big Wins in Finance 16:21 Top Skill Communication 20:12 AI for PM Workflows 24:38 Cool AI in the Wild 27:53 Advice to Younger Stan 29:45 Connect and Wrap Up Connect with Stan Ponder LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanponder/ Email: [email protected] Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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S2 Episode 3: Guiding Healthcare Projects for the Underserved Populations with Jordyn Seri
From Care Coordination to Health Tech: Jordyn Seri on Project Zero, Process Automation, and AI in Healthcare PM In this episode of Project Zero. Jordyn Seri, PMP is a healthcare Project Manager who turns operational friction into streamlined systems. With a background in public health and a process optimization mindset, Jordyn specializes in bridging the gap between technical developers and frontline clinicians. Known for her successes in improving operational efficiencies and database development, she is a firm believer in servant leadership and the power of asking "why." In this episode, Jordyn shares her path from studying psychology and public health at Brandeis to working across multiple levels of healthcare, including nonprofit Medicaid programs, health plan network management, and contracting with a health tech startup serving stakeholders like pharma companies, clinical researchers, and clinicians. 00:00 Welcome to Project Zero Season Two 00:27 Jordyn Seri: Background in Healthcare and Product/Project Management 02:40 How Jordyn Transitioned Into an Official Project Manager Role 04:35 Early Career in Care Coordination and Building Excel Dashboards to Track Medicaid Deadlines 07:10 College Experience: Public Health Fellowship Project and Event Planning 09:20 Personal Organization Style and “Spreadsheet Friend” Habits 10:45 Project Zero (Success): Automating Medicaid Claims Documentation to Eliminate 3,500 Manual Claims Annually 13:10 Driving Adoption: End-User Collaboration Group, Communication Plan, and Training Rollout 15:20 Project Zero (Challenge): Attempted Integration into Existing Software That Couldn’t Meet Program Complexities 18:05 Key Lesson: Be Wary of Easy “Yes” Answers and Validate Technical Feasibility; Escalation and Project Pause 20:25 Core PM Skills: Embrace Non-Expert Status, Ask Relentless Questions, and Stay Curious 22:05 Career Advice: Don’t Wait for Permission to Fix Broken Processes; Earn a Seat at the Table 23:25 AI in Jordyn’s Work: Staying Current via Superhuman Zane Newsletter and AI Daily Brief Podcast; Building a Prompt Library 25:10 Favorite AI Prompts: Finding Blind Spots and Risks, Translating Technical Documents into Plain English 26:40 AI Use Case in Medicaid: Consolidating Fragmented State Reporting Data into Dashboards for Operational Decision-Making 29:00 Advice for Early-Career PMs: Talk to Experienced PMs and Map Transferable Skills 30:35 Contact: How to Connect with Jordyn! AI Resources Mentioned: Superhuman Zain Newsletter: https://www.superhuman.ai/subscribe Jeff Su’s Website: https://www.jeffsu.org/ai/ AI Daily Brief Podcast Website: https://aidailybrief.ai/ Connect with Jordyn Seri, PMPLinkedIn: Jordyn SeriEmail: [email protected] Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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S2 Episode 2: Developing the Next Generation of Project Managers with Russ Parker
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Russ Parker, founder of Forty-Four Risk PM. Russ shares his unique journey from the Marine Corps to becoming a project manager and risk management expert. He delves into his accidental entry into project management, the influence of his wife’s PMP certification, and his transition to the financial sector. Russ emphasizes the importance of risk management in project planning and the evolving role of AI in simplifying administrative tasks for PMs. This episode offers valuable insights into leveraging lessons learned and the critical role of risk management in successful project execution. Russ also shares anecdotes about his early project experiences in Iraq and the impact of thorough planning. 00:00 Welcome to Project Zero Season Two 00:40 Meet Russ Parker: From Marine to Project Manager 02:09 The Accidental Journey into Project Management 09:42 Project Zero: A Defining Moment in Iraq 16:50 The Importance of Risk Management 22:50 AI in Project Management: The Future is Here 28:50 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts Connect with Russ Parker LinkedIn: Russ Parker Website: 44RiskPM.comYouTube: 44RiskPMEmail: [email protected] with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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S2 Episode 1: Navigating Complex Projects and Embracing Challenges in Project Management with Vidura Stich
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck welcomes Vidura Stich, a healthcare management consultant from Freed Associates. Vidura shares his journey into project management, starting from his early career and the pivotal moments that led him to where he is today. He discusses the importance of structure and people skills in project management, as well as the impact of mentorship on his career. Vidura also provides insights into how AI is transforming the project management landscape, emphasizing the need to adapt and leverage AI tools for greater efficiency. The episode wraps up with advice for aspiring project managers and a look at the future of AI in the industry. 00:00 Welcome to Season Two of Project Zero 00:16 Meet Vidura Stitch: Healthcare Management Consultant 01:27 Vidura's Journey into Project Management 09:35 The Impact of Mentorship 10:56 Project Zero: A Defining Moment 16:58 Reflecting on Early Projects 17:29 The Thrill of Big Projects 19:14 Key Skills for Project Managers 21:46 The Impact of AI on Project Management 27:05 Innovative Uses of AI in Projects 32:17 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Connect with Vidura Stich LinkedIn: Vidura Stich Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 25: Season One Finale Featuring Project Management Institute (PMI) Global Attendees
In this season one finale of Project Zero, Alex celebrates the show's success and shares memorable moments and favorite highlights from past episodes. The episode features insightful interviews with project leaders whom Alex met at PMI (Project Management Institute) Global. Guests include Marc Verbist discussing the intersection of music and project management, Tanya Boyd on her gumbo recipe metaphor for business success, Shawn Harris on AI integration in project management, and Alex Monroe on agile transformations in a marketing agency. We've brought you an extended episode, packed with valuable insights, practical takeaways, and reflections on the PMI Global conference. Enjoy the final episode and the diverse perspectives from PMI Global attendees. 00:00 Season One Finale Kickoff 00:14 Highlighting Top Episodes and Insights 01:57 Special Guests from PMI Global 04:03 Interview with Mark Verbist 16:52 Interview with Tanya Boyd 32:11 Interview with Shawn Harris 33:45 Exciting Developments in Remote Work and AI Integration 35:21 Insights from PMI Global Conference 36:05 The Role of AI in Project Management 37:53 Practical Applications of AI and Project Management 40:33 Shawn's Project Zero Experience 44:55 Alex Monroe's Journey in Project Management 59:50 Reflections and Future Directions Connect with Marc Verbist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcverbist/ Connect with Tanya Boyd: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanya-boyd-pmp-project-personality/ Listen to Tanya’s Full Project Zero Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2504123/episodes/17516816 Connect with Shawn Harris: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnharris/ Connect with Alex Monroe: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-monroe-pmp-a3131224/ Gorilla76: https://www.gorilla76.com/ Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alextuck/ Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tuckconsultinggroup/ Email: [email protected]
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Episode 24: The Importance of Process Implementation for Nonprofits
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck speaks with Galanda Brooker, Alex Morgan, and Martin Quatt about business process mapping. The discussion kicks off with introductions and highlights the importance of this method in improving organizational efficiencies. Martin explains the basics of business process mapping, starting from leadership acknowledgment of the need for change to gathering stakeholder input and creating iterative drafts. The guests share their favorite mapping tools and practical examples of successful implementations, detailing projects for organizations like CCL and St. Michael's College. The conversation also touches on adoption strategies and the value of thorough planning. Tune in for actionable insights on streamlining your company's processes and achieving substantial time and cost savings. 00:00 Introduction to Project Zero 00:09 Meet the Guests: Galanda, Alex, and Martin 02:08 Understanding Business Process Mapping 04:30 Favorite Mapping Tools 07:04 Real-World Examples of Process Mapping 07:43 Client Success Stories: CCL and St. Michael's College 13:36 Implementing Process Maps with Clickup 17:26 Project Timelines and Stakeholder Involvement 25:03 Ensuring Adoption of New Processes 27:37 Conclusion and Wrap-Up Connect with Galanda Brooker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrooker/ Connect with Martin Quatt LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-quatt/ Connect with Alex Morgan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderdmorgan/ Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 23: Prioritizing People in Project Management with Cathy Matosky
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Cathy Matosky, a strategic program manager for a digital advertising company and a consultant in operational excellence. Cathy shares her journey into project management, starting from her initial career in medical technology to her current roles. She discusses the importance of focusing on both technical execution and people management, the value of certifications like PMP and Prosci, and how AI is reshaping project management. Cathy emphasizes active listening and curiosity as crucial skills for project managers and advises continuous learning and mentorship for career growth. 00:00 Welcome to Project Zero 00:20 Meet Cathy Matosky: Strategic Program Manager 00:49 Cathy's Journey into Project Management 02:04 The Importance of Certifications 02:57 Embracing Change Management 05:51 The Cyclical Nature of Projects 07:44 Project Zero: Cathy's First Major Project 13:00 The Impact of AI on Project Management 16:02 Essential Skills for Project Managers 18:29 Advice for Aspiring Project Managers 22:22 Defining Project Success 25:07 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with Cathy LinkedIn: Cathy Matosky Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 22: Top Leadership Takeaways for Project Managers with Alec Jacobson
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Alec Jacobson, an ESG consultant and co-founder of AB Power. Alec shares his unique career journey from a freelance journalist and nonprofit founder to his current roles at TetraTech and AB Power. He discusses the skills he developed along the way, including project management as a journalist and leadership lessons learned at Booz Allen. Alec also elaborates on his Project Zero experience, founding a nonprofit news group, and the crucial lessons he learned about communication, giving feedback, and team leadership. They also touch on how AI could impact project management tasks and the importance of junior roles in the professional pipeline. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:42 Alec's Background and Career Journey 02:22 First Encounters with Project Management 03:46 Lessons from Booz Allen 06:31 Project Zero: Founding a Nonprofit News Group 09:05 Key Lessons Learned 15:45 Advice for Aspiring Project Managers 17:46 The Future of AI in Project Management 24:10 Career Reflections and Final Thoughts 27:11 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with Alec Jacobson LinkedIn: Alec Jacobson Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 21: Key Priorities for Project Managers to Achieve Effective Service Delivery
This discussion focuses on key areas project managers should prioritize for effective service delivery in small businesses or departments. Emphasis is placed on the importance of comprehensive communication plans, the cadence of communication methods, and ensuring stakeholders are well-informed and engaged throughout the project. The conversation also addresses practical approaches to organizing project documentation, transitioning projects into operations, creating project plans using methodologies like waterfall and agile, and managing risks and issues. The panel also discusses negotiation and escalation tactics to foster better teamwork and adherence to project goals. 00:00 Introduction to Project Management Focus Areas 00:20 Importance of Communication in Project Management 01:14 Effective Communication Strategies 03:43 Live Meetings vs. Asynchronous Communication 06:17 Organizing Project Artifacts 11:56 Building a Project Plan 21:41 Risk and Issue Management 28:38 Assessing Project Risks and Their Impact 29:45 Documenting and Tracking Decisions 30:58 Simplifying Risk Management Processes 31:45 Leveraging AI for Decision Tracking 32:09 Client Communication and Conflict Resolution 33:08 Learning from Past Projects 34:48 Fear Setting and Risk Management 37:14 Negotiation and Escalation Tactics 39:01 Building Strong Relationships for Project Success 43:36 Aligning Projects with Company Mission 51:39 Final Thoughts and Next Steps Connect with Galanda Brooker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrooker/ Connect with Jessica CaresseLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-caresse/ Connect with Alex Morgan LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderdmorgan/ Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 20: The Project Manager’s Balancing Act with Pete Walker
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Peter Walker, a co-founder of Navigate, about his extensive experience in project management. Pete shares his journey from being an industrial engineer and psychologist to a project manager working on transformation projects and process re-engineering. Highlighting his 'Project Zero'—an ERP transformation at General Dynamics—Pete recounts the challenges and lessons learned, emphasizing the importance of communication and adaptability. The discussion covers the evolving role of project managers, the significance of organization skills, and actionable advice for aspiring project managers.00:00 Introduction to Project Zero00:08 Meet Pete Walker: Co-founder of Navigate00:30 Pete's Journey into Project Management01:45 The Role of Engineering and Psychology03:04 First Major Project: ERP Transformation10:33 Lessons from Project Zero15:41 The Importance of Communication18:31 Future of Project Management23:01 Advice for Aspiring Project Managers26:51 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with Pete Walker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walkerbusinessconsulting/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/navigate-and-company/ Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 19: Breaking Through Your Comfort Zone as a Project Manager with Saby Waraich
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck welcomes keynote speaker and upcoming author, Saby Waraich. Saby shares his extensive experience spanning 30 years in technology, currently serving as Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at Clackamas Community College. He discusses his journey from software development in India to becoming a PMO manager in the U.S., highlighting key projects, especially a challenging transformation at the City of Portland. Saby introduces his framework ‘SCARE to CARES’ for managing complex transformations, touching on key topics such as leadership and communication. He emphasizes the importance of influence as a fundamental skill for project leaders and shares advice for aspiring project managers on achieving career growth. The episode closes with Saby's insights on the practical applications and ethical considerations of AI in project management. 00:00 Introduction to Project Zero Podcast 00:34 Meet Saby: A Journey in Technology and Leadership 02:35 From Software Developer to Project Manager 04:00 The PMP Certification: A Turning Point 06:59 Project Zero: The High-Stakes Challenge 08:28 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Challenges 12:26 Delivering Success Against All Odds 14:16 From Scare to CARES: Leadership Lessons 15:26 Building Trust and Empowering Teams 15:50 Scare to Cares Framework 16:00 Handling Media and Public Perception 18:26 Project Success Amidst COVID-19 19:14 Internal Team Dynamics and Challenges 22:59 Advice for Aspiring Project Managers 27:10 The Role of AI in Project Management 31:36 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Connect with Saby Waraich LinkedIn: @Saby Waraich Website: sabywaraich.com YouTube: @SabyWaraich Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 18: Developing a Custom Onboarding Plan from Scratch with Matt Mayabb
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Matt Mayabb, Senior Director of Program Management at NeuroFlow. Matt discusses his journey from working at Humana to being part of NeuroFlow through its acquisition of Quartet Health. He details his nonlinear path in project management, sharing experiences from his early career in a call center to leading complex healthcare projects. Matt highlights key skills for project managers, the importance of listening and empathy, and the potential impacts of AI on the field. He also shares insights into his first major project, onboarding a new executive at Humana, and offers advice for aspiring project managers. 00:00 Introduction to Project Zero 00:18 Meet Matt Mayabb: Senior Director at NeuroFlow 01:20 Journey from Quartet Health to NeuroFlow 01:52 Matt's Pathway into Project Management 04:56 Implementing Innovative Programs at Quartet 15:54 Advice for Aspiring Project Managers 17:53 The Impact of AI on Project Management 21:28 Defining Success in Project Management 23:26 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Connect with Matt Mayabb LinkedIn: Matt Mayabb Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 17: Building a PM Career With Senior Project Manager Walt Sparling
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Walt Sparling, an author, podcaster, and senior project manager with an international real estate company. Walt shares his journey from working in mechanical, electrical, and architectural design to becoming a project manager. He discusses his transition into project management, the challenges and learning experiences during his career, and his first significant ground-up project. Walt emphasizes the importance of communication, organizational skills, and mentorship in project management. He also touches on his use of AI tools for personal projects and the evolving role of AI in the industry. Walt's story highlights the value of adaptability, continuous learning, and the impact of effective communication in successful project management. 00:00 Welcome to Project Zero 00:29 Meet Walt Sparling: From Design to Project Management 02:14 Walt's First Official PM Role 04:12 The Transition from Design to PM 05:36 The Importance of Organization 10:55 Project Zero: Walt's First Ground-Up Project 13:25 Challenges and Mentorship in Project Management 20:41 The Role of Communication in PM Success 24:00 AI's Impact on Project Management 28:42 Reflecting on Success and Sharing Wisdom Connect with Walt Sparling LinkedIn: Walt Sparling Website: pm-mastery.com Podcast: PM-Mastery Connect with Alex: Personal LinkedIn: Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 16: The Art of Organized Chaos in Project Management and AI with Eduardo Rios
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Ed Rios, CEO of Tech Ed Productions, about his journey from being a technical manager at Citibank to a project and program management expert. Ed recounts his initiation into project management during the Y2K readiness projects at Citibank, his transition to ERP management with a focus on SAP and Microsoft Dynamics, and his eventual founding of Tech Ed Productions. He discusses the challenges and lessons learned from managing large-scale projects, the importance of organization and leadership, and the role of AI in future project management. Ed also shares advice on the value of listening and understanding the work involved in projects. Listeners can connect with Ed via LinkedIn for further insights and networking opportunities. 00:00 Introduction to Project Zero 00:18 Ed Rios' Early Career and Y2K Project 00:57 Transition to Program Management and Microsoft 02:29 Founding Tech Ed Productions 04:17 Challenges and Lessons in Project Management 18:06 The Role of AI in Project Management 23:40 Defining Success and Final Advice 26:56 Conclusion and How to Connect with Ed Rios Connect with Ed: LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/eduardorriosEmail: [email protected]: techedproductions.comConnect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 15: Psychological Safety in Project Management with Amervis López Cobb
In this episode, host Alex Tuck interviews Amervis López Cobb, a transformation architect and expert in psychological safety. Amervis shares her journey from at-risk youth to building and rescuing project management offices, and discusses why psychological safety is the foundation for successful teams. The conversation covers her "I'M Power" framework, the importance of communication, the role of AI in project management, and how leaders can create environments where people feel safe to speak up and contribute. Amervis also opens up about her neurodivergence and advocates for inclusive, bias-free workplaces. 00:00 Introduction to Project Zero and guest Amervis López Cobb 00:24 Amervis’s background: founder, author, and transformation architect 01:18 Lessons from rescuing failing enterprise initiatives 01:48 The real root of organizational problems: psychological safety 02:07 Creating frameworks for project management and psychological safety 02:47 The "I'M Power" framework: building systems where safety doesn’t require courage 03:50 Amervis’s career journey: breaking into tech and project management 07:14 Building project management offices and learning from mentors 08:43 The “aha” project: managing a major casino system opening 10:22 Adapting to constraints, integrating agile practices, and team buy-in 12:16 The importance of psychological safety and supportive leadership 14:04 Communication as the #1 project management skill 17:00 Using AI to improve communication and reduce bias 18:49 The future of project management: AI, bias, and human connection 21:00 Neurodivergence, inclusion, and not coding old biases into new systems 27:06 How to connect with Amervis (website, email, YouTube, LinkedIn) 30:39 Closing remarks Connect with Amervis López Cobb Website: ascend-transcend.com Email: [email protected] YouTube: @AmervisAuthor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amervis/Connect with Alex: Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 14: Navigating Role Transitions and AI in Project Management with David Morris
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews David Morris, the head of the PMO at Kinetics Technology (one of Tuck Consulting Group’s clients in the IT Professional Services space). David shares his journey from a business analyst and project manager to overseeing the entire projects department at Kinetics. He discusses his early career at Hertz and Smucker's, the importance of communication skills, recent advancements in AI at Kinetics, and his latest certification as a Portfolio Manager Professional. David also reflects on the importance of mentorship, work-life balance, and the evolving role of AI in project management. 00:00 Welcome to Project Zero 00:27 David Morris: Career Journey and Role at Kinetics 02:13 Early Career and Education 07:59 First Major Project: Smucker's Data Transition 10:24 The Importance of Mentorship 12:48 Balancing Work and Family 17:26 AI in Project Management 21:05 Innovations at Kinetics and New Charter 25:08 Contact and Closing Remarks Connect with David: - Email: [email protected] - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-morris-50496b21/Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 13: Building Executive Presence in Project Management with John Connolly
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews John Connolly, a Project Management Trainer at Scaling Strategies. John shares his unique journey from a librarian to a project management leader. He discusses his first major project, the transformation of a small art museum library, and the lessons he learned along the way. Key topics include the importance of communication, critical thinking, and building trust with stakeholders. John also offers insights into the evolving role of project managers in the age of AI and the need for strategic leadership within project management. The conversation emphasizes the human aspects of project management and provides valuable advice for aspiring project leaders. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:36 John Connolly's Background 01:59 First Steps in Project Management 03:32 Challenges and Growth 08:08 Building Trust and Communication 19:20 Key Skills for Project Managers 23:23 The Future of Project Management and AI 30:08 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with John: Email: [email protected]. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnconnolly058/ Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 12: Elevating Project Management for a New Era with Galanda A Brooker
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Galanda Brooker, a seasoned project manager with over 20 years of experience in tech, education, and wellness consultation. Galanda shares her career journey from a tech professional to a project manager and wellness consultant. She discusses her initial roles, the transition to project management, and her first major project at the Department of State. The conversation explores the evolution of project management skills, the impact of AI, and the importance of communication and patience. Practical advice for new project managers and insights into the diverse career pathways within project management are also highlighted. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:22 Galanda's Career Journey 01:48 Transition to Project Management 04:06 First Major Project Management Role 05:38 Family Project Management 07:00 Project Zero: The First Big Challenge 16:13 The Importance of Communication in PM 17:01 AI's Impact on Project Management 21:01 Defining Project Success 25:15 Speed Round and Final Advice 28:33 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with Galanda:Website: www.galandab.com Email: [email protected] Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 11: The Impact of AI on Project Management with Alex Morgan
In this episode, Alex Morgan shares a unique and unexpected journey into the field of project management. Moving to New York without a concrete career plan, Alex initially took up various temporary jobs. A chance encounter at Moody's Analytics shortly after the financial crisis led to a suggestion that he explore project management, a concept he was previously unfamiliar with. Starting with administrative work, he rapidly transitioned into managing projects out of necessity within a small plumbing and engineering business. Alex highlights his liberal arts background in film and television studies, which honed his critical thinking and communication skills. These soft skills proved invaluable in coordinating and translating technical and business requirements across diverse teams and clients. The episode underscores the significance of adaptability and interpersonal skills in project management. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:30 Meet Alex Morgan: Professional Journey 01:46 How Alex Got into Project Management 06:00 College Days and Early Career 10:23 Project Zero: Chelsea Market Case Study 18:38 The Importance of Communication in Project Management 23:10 AI's Impact on Project Management 34:30 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Connect with Alex Morgan: Email: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderdmorgan/Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 10: AGILE2025 Edition - Stories from Attendees
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck introduces a new format featuring live interviews with top Agile project leaders from the Agile 2025 conference. The episode highlights key conference takeaways, including Tricia Broderick's keynote on resilience, a session by Digital Project Manager co-founder Galen Lowe on the future of Agile, and an interactive workshop on removing unnecessary bureaucracy. Special guests Emma from Flagstone and Emma Jacobson from Werfen share their experiences and lessons learned from their first major project management endeavors, known as 'Project Zero.'00:00 Introduction to Project Zero00:22 Conference Highlights and Keynotes00:45 Insights from Agile Leaders01:07 Exciting Workshops and Exercises01:32 Format and Future Episodes01:48 Interview with Emma from Flagstone02:57 Emma's Project Management Journey04:44 Challenges and Learnings09:55 Advice for Junior Project Managers11:00 Contact Information and Conclusion11:22 Interview with Emma from Werfen12:23 Werfen's Agile Transformation14:09 Project Zero: Next Generation SoftwareConnect with Emma Jacobson:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-jacobson/Connect with Emma Cannon: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmamariecannon/Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 09: Mastering Project Dynamics with Tim Kephart
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Tim Kephart, VP of Strategic Programs at M2 Orthopedics and Founder of KCPM Health. Tim shares his journey into project management, detailing his experiences managing complex healthcare projects, including launching new clinics and implementing electronic medical records. He discusses his first major project in Austin, Texas, the challenges faced, and key takeaways on stakeholder management, communication, and balancing speed with quality. Tim emphasizes the importance of being adaptable, learning from experienced professionals, and effectively communicating with stakeholders to navigate the complexities of large-scale projects. 00:00 Welcome to Project Zero 00:27 Meet Tim Kephart: Career and Roles 02:12 First Steps in Project Management 04:19 Graduate School and Early Career 06:47 Project Zero: The Big Challenge 16:50 Lessons Learned and Advice 25:26 Speed Round and PM Tools 30:43 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with Tim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timkephart3/Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 08: How Hurricane Katrina Launched a PM Career with Tanya Boyd
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Tanya Boyd, the Director of Creative Collaboration at Project Success Academy. Tanya shares her non-traditional journey into project management, which began with her work on the Road Home Program created after Hurricane Katrina. She discusses how she transitioned from a background in English and journalism to a peer reviewer and eventually recognized her role as a project manager. Tanya also reflects on the importance of communication, adaptability, and learning from failures. The episode delves into her experience with PMI certifications, working in disaster recovery, and the evolving landscape of project management methodologies. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:24 Tanya's Background and Role 01:26 Journey into Project Management 03:31 The Accidental Project Manager 04:57 Project Zero Experience 08:15 Lessons Learned and Overcoming Challenges 22:30 Importance of Communication 26:19 Speed Round and Final Reflections 29:42 Conclusion and Farewell Connect with Tanya:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanya-boyd-pmp-project-personality/Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 07: From Process Engineer to Expert PM with Amy Marshall-Carney
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Amy Marshall-Carney, co-founder of Sage Echelon Consulting, about her journey from being a youthful 'natural project manager' in her personal life and early career to becoming a prominent figure in the project management world. Amy shares insights on transitioning from engineering to project management, the importance of continuous process improvement, and the role of communication and understanding in successful project management. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring project managers and discusses the significance of stakeholder engagement, problem-solving, and maintaining a calm, solution-focused attitude. The conversation delves into Amy's early experiences at IBM, her progression to portfolio management, and her current role in strategic program management and change management at Sage Echelon Consulting. 00:00 Introduction to Project Zero 00:12 Meet Amy Marshall-Carney 01:30 Amy's Early Experiences with Project Management 03:40 Transitioning from Engineering to Project Management 06:21 Amy's First Major Project at IBM 08:31 Lessons Learned from Early Projects 12:25 Advice for Aspiring Project Managers 16:21 Career Progression to Program Management 24:12 Speed Round and Fun Questions 28:22 Amy's Ultimate Project Dream 29:52 Conclusion and Contact Information Connect with Amy: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amymarshallcarney/Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 06: Accidental Project Manager to Productivity Nerd with Jacqui Myslinski
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck introduces guest Jacqui Myslinski, founder of Productivity Nerd, a consulting firm. Jacqui shares her journey from sales and marketing to becoming an 'accidental' project manager. The conversation covers her experiences managing a brewery with her father, the challenges she faced, and the skills she developed along the way. Jacqui emphasizes the importance of clear communication, admitting mistakes, and setting clear expectations in project management. She also talks about transitioning from operations to project management and offers advice for aspiring project managers. The episode wraps up with a discussion on balancing perfectionism and speed, favorite project management tools, and incorporating project management into family activities like Minecraft and summer plans. 00:00 Introduction to Project Zero 00:07 Meet Jacqui Myslinski: The Productivity Nerd 00:47 Jacqui's Journey into Project Management 01:45 Starting a Brewery: The Accidental Project Manager 06:28 From Operations to Project Management 13:53 The Importance of Clear Communication 18:45 Defining Success in Project Management 21:03 Advice for Aspiring Project Managers 21:20 Volunteering and Showcasing Skills 22:24 Exploring Personal Interests 23:12 Speed Round: Quick Preferences 26:20 Reflections and Advice for Younger Self 29:31 Project Management for Kids 33:41 Connecting and Wrapping Up Connect with Jacqui:LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquimyslinski/Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 05: From Master Scheduler to Fractional CIO: Dr. Sheila Volante's Journey
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Expert Project Manager and Fractional CIO, Dr. Sheila Valante. Dr. Sheila shares her journey from a master scheduler at Ronald Reagan Hospital to rescuing organizations from project failures across multiple industries. She emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, trust, and relationship-building in project management. Dr. Sheila also discusses the evolution of her career into change management and strategy, offering advice for aspiring project managers and highlighting the significance of stakeholder satisfaction and adaptability in the success of projects.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:26 Dr. Sheila's Background and Career Beginnings01:21 Discovering Project Management02:13 Early Career Challenges and Lessons03:54 Project Zero: The Aha Moment06:24 Building Relationships and Overcoming Obstacles07:07 Transition to Change Management10:36 Critical Skills for Project Managers14:05 Defining Success in Projects15:35 Career Progression and Advice16:07 A New Beginning: Embracing Change Management17:08 The Evolution of Industry 4.018:14 Advice for Aspiring Project Managers19:49 The Value of Certifications and Frameworks22:52 Speed Round: Quickfire Questions24:57 Reflecting on Career and Personal Growth26:23 Dream Projects and Future Aspirations27:48 Connecting and Wrapping UpConnect with Dr. Sheila: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilavolante/Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 04: From Business Analyst to Project Leader with ClickUp's AJ Castellucci
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews AJ Castucci, the Senior Manager of Services at Clickup. AJ discusses his career trajectory, starting as a business analyst and consulting in healthcare IT to his roles at Smartsheet and Clickup. They delve into AJ's project management experiences, his views on the evolution of project management tools from Excel to sophisticated platforms like Smartsheet and Clickup, and the differences between these tools. The conversation also covers essential project management skills, the impact of data-driven insights, the value of MBA education, and AJ's perspective on industry certifications.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:27 AJ's Role at Clickup01:40 Early Career and First Job Experience04:37 Project Management Challenges07:29 Transition to Smartsheet11:54 Smartsheet vs Clickup15:33 Key Skills for Project Managers17:46 Defining Success Criteria18:26 Career Journey and MBA Experience21:26 Transition to Clickup23:17 Speed Round: Preferences and Tools26:45 Certifications in Project Management28:45 Advice for Young Professionals30:29 Dream Project with Unlimited Resources31:55 Conclusion and Contact InformationConnect with AJ Castellucci: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajcastellucci/Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 03: From Pre-Med to Project Management Consultant with Jessica Caresse White
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Jessica Caresse White, founder of J Caresse Consulting. Jessica shares her unexpected journey into project management, moving from studying pre-med to a career in consulting and project management. She discusses her experiences at McKinsey and Hitachi Solutions, highlighting key projects, challenges, and her eventual decision to start her own consulting firm. Jessica emphasizes the importance of curiosity, empathy, and maintaining authority in the field. The episode concludes with advice for new project managers and a discussion on the ideal project management tools and methodologies.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:25 Journey into Project Management01:39 Early Career and Education04:12 Jessica's Project Zero 13:13 Key Skill for Project Managers13:43 Defining Project Success14:40 Empathy and Vulnerability in Leadership16:08 Career Journey from McKinsey to Consulting Firm19:00 Speed Round: Project Management Preferences21:08 Advice for Early Career PMs21:51 Dream Project with Unlimited Funding24:05 Conclusion and Contact InformationConnect with Jessica Caresse White:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-caresse/Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 02: From Engineer to Project Management Consultant with Brutus Segun
In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Brutus Segun, the founder of Innovation SGP and a seasoned project manager. Brutus shares his journey from working with technical ecosystems to formally entering the project management field as a titleholder in 2018 with the state of Kansas. He discusses how his background in engineering, software development, and political science has informed his project management approach, particularly in handling complex state government projects like HCBS compliance in Kansas. Brutus emphasizes the importance of humility, technical skills, and delivering sustainable value in project management. He also provides advice for new project managers and highlights the significance of understanding domain-specific knowledge. The episode concludes with a speed round and Brutus sharing his vision of fixing world hunger if given unlimited resources.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:23 Journey into Project Management01:54 Transition from Engineering to Project Management05:43 Brutus' Project Zero13:18 Lessons Learned and Career Growth19:24 Advice for Aspiring Project Managers22:08 Speed Round and Final Reflections26:55 Conclusion and Contact InformationConnect with Brutus SegunLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brutus-segun/Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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Episode 01: Introducing Project Zero
Project Zero, hosted by Alex Tuck, Founder and Principal of Tuck Consulting Group, delves into the real-life experiences of project managers as they navigate their first significant projects. In this episode, Alex shares insights from his own initial endeavor working on Obamacare in Vermont, emphasizing the challenges and hard-earned lessons that shaped his career. The podcast will focus on real talk from seasoned project leaders, offering practical advice and honest insights for both novice and experienced project managers. With new episodes each week, listeners can expect to gain confidence and knowledge to enhance their project management skills.Connect with Alex Tuck Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group Email: [email protected]
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
From first steps to best practices — stories that shaped project leaders.Project Zero is a podcast for project managers — and the PM-curious — who want more than frameworks and certifications. Each episode features a project leader, highlighting first projects and the pivotal lessons that shaped their approach to leadership, collaboration, and delivery. From unexpected missteps to breakthrough moments, these conversations reveal what it really takes to grow into a confident, competent project manager. It’s honest, insightful, and designed to help you lead better — whether you're managing your first task or your hundredth milestone.
HOSTED BY
Alex Tuck
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