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

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FAQs about Project Zero:

How many episodes does Project Zero have?

The podcast currently has 26 episodes available.

Project Zero episodes:

September 11, 2025Episode 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/eduardorrios
Email: [email protected]
Web: techedproductions.com
Connect with Alex Tuck
Personal LinkedIn: @Alex Tuck
Website: www.tuckconsultinggroup.com
Company LinkedIn: @Tuck Consulting Group
Email: [email protected]
...more
28min
September 04, 2025Episode 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]
...more
31min
August 28, 2025Episode 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]
...more
27min
August 21, 2025Episode 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]
...more
31min
August 13, 2025Episode 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]
...more
30min
August 07, 2025Episode 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]
...more
35min
July 31, 2025Episode 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 Zero
00:22 Conference Highlights and Keynotes
00:45 Insights from Agile Leaders
01:07 Exciting Workshops and Exercises
01:32 Format and Future Episodes
01:48 Interview with Emma from Flagstone
02:57 Emma's Project Management Journey
04:44 Challenges and Learnings
09:55 Advice for Junior Project Managers
11:00 Contact Information and Conclusion
11:22 Interview with Emma from Werfen
12:23 Werfen's Agile Transformation
14:09 Project Zero: Next Generation Software

Connect 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]
...more
30min
July 24, 2025Episode 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]
...more
32min
July 17, 2025Episode 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]
...more
30min
July 10, 2025Episode 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]
...more
31min

FAQs about Project Zero:

How many episodes does Project Zero have?

The podcast currently has 26 episodes available.