Ever wondered how to transform overloaded agile teams into efficient, autonomous units? Get ready to uncover the secrets of fast workflow in our conversation with Paul Vanderslot from Rotterdam. As a seasoned software architect for an energy network operator, Paul faced the daunting challenge of a bottleneck team buried under a massive backlog. He shares his personal journey and the emotional toll that team dependencies created, revealing the magic formula for fostering empowered, product-minded teams that see developers as creative problem solvers and value creators.

Discover the transformative power of domain-driven design as Paul explains how aligning teams with specific business domains can lead to independent architecture and smoother collaboration. With practical examples and insights, Paul illustrates how recognizing domain shifts in language—like transitioning from "candidate" to "employee"—can significantly enhance team autonomy and efficiency. Learn how event-based integration and stable contracts between domains minimize frustrating dependencies and context switching, resulting in happier and more innovative developers. This episode is packed with invaluable strategies to supercharge your agile teams and revolutionize your development process.

Connect with Paul on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-van-der-slot-03545b37/

Read "Architecture Modernization" by Nick Tune:
https://manning.com/books/architecture-modernization

Read "Escaping the Build Trap" by Melissa Perri:
https://www.amazon.com/Escaping-Build-Trap-Effective-Management/dp/149197379X

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Ever wondered how to transform feedback into a powerful tool for personal and professional growth? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Sat Kaur, an Agile coach and Scrum Master, as she shares her unique philosophy of "Share, Care, and Be Rare." Sat brings her wealth of experience to the table, drawing fascinating parallels between choosing the right dish from a menu and navigating personalized feedback. She underscores the importance of self-awareness and alignment when receiving feedback, ensuring it's both valuable and actionable.

We delve deep into the complexities of feedback and self-awareness in leadership, discussing how to balance uplifting and challenging feedback to achieve a richer understanding of oneself. Trust and specificity emerge as key elements in making feedback truly constructive. Sat also highlights the unique challenges faced by Scrum Masters in quantifying their contributions and the importance of identifying tangible outcomes to demonstrate value. Our discussion touches on the nuances of giving feedback to those close to us, emphasizing the need for specificity and situational awareness. This episode promises valuable insights for anyone aiming to enhance their growth through mindful feedback practices.

Connect with Sat on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/satvinder-kaur-52494042/

Listen to Sat's podcast- We Are Not Lost:
https://pod.link/1621708175

When travelling to Texas, visit The Fort Worth Stockyards:
https://www.fortworthstockyards.org/

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Unlock the secrets to landing your dream Agile role with expert insights from career coach Stephanie Cully! Join us as Stephanie shares her extensive knowledge on navigating the challenging job market and transitioning into Agile positions, even from non-tech backgrounds. Learn practical strategies like freelancing on Upwork and Fiverr, and effective networking at local Chamber of Commerce events to gain the experience and visibility needed to stand out.

Discover the art of optimizing your resume and LinkedIn profile to boost your job search success. Hear a compelling story about a client who transformed their lengthy resume into a winning one-page document that led to an interview from a pool of 700 applicants. We emphasize the critical importance of consistency between your resume and LinkedIn profile, and offer tips on how to maximize your resume space by leveraging LinkedIn for detailed information like certifications.

Build genuine relationships and stand out in the competitive job market with our thoughtful advice on authentic job search strategies. Stephanie and I explore the frustration of feeling used by acquaintances and how to foster genuine connections through casual conversations and showing interest in others' careers. Learn how to differentiate yourself through unique experiences and showcase your expertise via blogs or LinkedIn posts. We also provide targeted job search tips, including identifying top companies and using LinkedIn filters to find the perfect fit. Tune in for an engaging discussion on agile methodologies, team dynamics, and creating a culture of continuous improvement. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable strategies to enhance your Agile journey!

Connect with Stephanie:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-cully/
https://www.instagram.com/cullyandco_careers/
www.stephaniecully.com

Resources from Stephanie:

FREE "Discover your Purpose" (Ikigai guide)
https://www.cullyandco.com/ikigai

FREE "LinkedIn Strategies to Land the Job" (outreach guide) https://www.cullyandco.com/OutreachGuide

Get 20% off the "Get Hired" ebook
FREE for a very limited time, afterward use code: TheAgileWithin
https://www.cullyandco.com/offers/U4vSNWsz

Get 20% off career coaching
Mntion TheAgileWithin in the "other" section for discount https://calendly.com/d/3pm-jp4-7n4/discovery-call-with-steph

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Unlock the secrets to leading with purpose and fulfillment as Sarah Gruneisen, a seasoned leadership coach and former software engineer, joins us to break down the ancient Japanese concept of Ikigai. Discover how aligning what you love, what you’re good at, what you can be paid for, and what the world needs can transform your approach to leadership and team dynamics. Learn how these intersections—passion, mission, vocation, and profession—can help you create a more meaningful professional and personal life. We discuss actionable insights on empowering diverse teams, including introverts and those focused on technical tasks, by fostering environments that encourage understanding and creative problem-solving.

Engineers at various career stages face unique challenges, from midlife crises to imposter syndrome. Sarah and I tackle these issues head-on, offering strategies to help leaders understand and support their teams' unique motivations and backgrounds. Learn how meaningful conversations and trust-building can unlock true passions, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction. We delve into overcoming fear and taking risks, with practical tips for managing failure and encouraging team members to pursue authentic goals. If you’re looking to inspire your team and yourself, this episode is packed with the wisdom you need to make a real impact.

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgruneisen/

Check out Sarah's Coaching Offerings:
https://www.avagasso.com/

What is Ikigai?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ikigai

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Join us in this episode as Suruchi Patke, an experienced Agile practitioner and Scrum team coach, shares her wisdom on mastering the nuanced skill of saying "no". Discover how protecting your team’s autonomy and keeping focus can prevent scope creep and enhance self-management. Suruchi offers practical tips and compelling examples on how to say "no "in a way that builds trust and nurtures a healthy team dynamic.

Ever faced the dilemma of balancing urgent tasks with essential team retrospectives? We have the perfect solution for you. Suruchi recounts a real-life scenario where a developer wanted to skip the retrospective to meet pressing deadlines. Instead of simply dismissing the idea, she facilitated a productive 35-minute session by proposing alternative solutions. This segment highlights the importance of flexibility and open communication in maintaining team agility and delivering quality outcomes without sacrificing opportunities for improvement.

Managing stakeholder expectations can be tricky, especially when new tasks emerge mid-sprint. In this episode, we explore a scenario where additional data migration tasks threatened to overload the sprint backlog. Suruchi emphasizes the necessity of setting boundaries and conducting technical feasibility analyses to negotiate realistic sprint goals. Learn strategies to protect your team’s capacity while ensuring stakeholder satisfaction. Join us as we empower Scrum Masters to lead their teams with clarity, confidence, and assertiveness.

Connect with Suruchi on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/suruchi-patki-b0710b195

Visit the Great American Ballpark and Purple People Bridge in Cincinnati, Ohio:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_American_Ball_Park
https://purplepeoplebridge.com/

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What if the key to unlocking your team's full potential lies in understanding the unique ways our brains function? Join us in this fascinating episode of The Agile Within, where we sit down with Anita Kalmane-Boot, a Scrum Master from Eastern Netherlands, who sheds light on the critical importance of neurodiversity in Agile teams. Anita breaks down the differences between neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing why these distinctions are essential for creating inclusive and high-performing Scrum teams. Discover how fostering an environment of psychological safety and crafting inclusive team agreements can empower neurodivergent team members to thrive.

Unemployment is a significant challenge for neurodivergent individuals, not due to their lack of willingness to work, but because of systemic barriers. Anita and I explore the necessity for companies to embrace diverse working arrangements and create inclusive environments that cater to various needs. We discuss the growing acceptance within industries like technology, where flexible work hours and environments are becoming the norm. Learn about the initiatives and advocacy efforts in Western Europe that are paving the way for a more inclusive workforce, and how companies can benefit from tapping into this often-overlooked talent pool.

Unlock the unique strengths that neurodivergent individuals bring to Agile teams, from creativity to out-of-the-box thinking. Anita shares practical strategies for improving team dynamics, including the creation of personal manuals to understand each team member’s work preferences and needs. 

Connect with Anita on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitakalmane/

Book Suggestions:

Neurotribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity

"Dirty Laundry: Why Adults with ADHD Are So Ashamed and What We Can Do to Help"

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Unlock the secrets to a happier, more cohesive work environment with Antoni Tzavelas, keynote speaker and Chief Happiness Officer at Smiling Bowtie. We kick things off with Antoni sharing his love for Toronto's vibrant coffee culture, and then he dives into his revolutionary Happiness Blueprint through the IMPACT model—Inspiration, Mindset, Power (empowerment), Alliance (relationships), Care (psychological safety), and Transformation. Antoni's personal story from his time as a DevOps engineer vividly illustrates how this model can foster growth and cultivate a supportive and motivating environment. By committing to continuous upskilling and inspiring his peers, Antoni created a blueprint that transformed not only individual careers but entire team dynamics.

In our second segment, Antoni takes us on a journey through the origins of his Happiness Blueprint, drawing inspiration from positive psychology and the lifestyles of centenarians in blue zones. He underscores the vital role of workplace happiness in driving engagement, fulfillment, and productivity, while also addressing common skepticism among leaders. Antoni shares practical strategies for re-engaging disengaged employees and discusses the shift from classical project management to Agile methodologies. To wrap up, we delve into the essentials of Agile practices, where Antoni offers invaluable tips and insights for both newcomers and seasoned practitioners.

Connect with Antoni on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonit/

Check out Antoni's Training Offerings:
https://www.smilingbowtie.com/

Visit one of the many coffee shops in Toronto!
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g155019-c8-Toronto_Ontario.html

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Ever wondered how agile methodologies can intersect with sustainability to address some of the planet's most pressing challenges? Join us in this episode of The Agile Within with guest Maryse Meinen, Chief Philosopher, Sustainability and Product Development Enabler at Practical Agile.

We explore the vital role agilists can play in mitigating environmental impacts, particularly within the fast-growing IT sector. Maryse and I tackle the concept of climate anxiety, discussing how breaking down overwhelming issues into manageable tasks can make a significant difference, much like in software development. Through personal stories and reflections, we illustrate the power of persistence and the importance of making impactful, incremental changes. We also delve into the principle of YAGNI and its relevance to both software development and sustainability, advocating for a mindset of "enoughness".

By drawing on Stoic philosophy, we highlight the timeless wisdom of figures like Marcus Aurelius and the practical applications of their teachings for today’s leaders. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that bridges the realms of agility, sustainability, and the enduring insights of Stoicism.

Follow Maryse on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmeinen/

The United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals:
https://sdgs.un.org/goals

The Story of Enoughness by Anjali Leon:
https://www.ppl-coach.com/post/the-story-of-enoughness

Discover Leiden, Netherlands and the American Pilgrim Museum:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leiden
https://leidenamericanpilgrimmuseum.org

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Strap in for a riveting exploration of the unspoken tensions that ripple through Agile teams, as I, Mark Metze, converse with our esteemed guest Lakshmi Ramaseshan. We're peeling back the layers of conflict avoidance, a topic many shy away from, yet one that seeps into the crevices of teamwork, threatening to undermine our collective efforts. Lakshmi doesn't just share her experiences; she dives into the deep end, revealing her personal transformation in the realm of conflict resolution. A masterclass in self-awareness and taking ownership as a leader awaits, with tangible strategies for building trust and fostering an environment where honest, productive dialogue can flourish.

Then, prepare to be both challenged and inspired as we navigate the tricky terrain of values and systemic change within the corporate sphere. Through the compelling tale of Joe, a leader caught in the crosshairs of team dynamics and personal ethics, we'll dissect how values are put to the test when culture and results clash. This isn't just about the rigors of management; it's an intimate look at the inner resolve needed to champion change and remain true to one's purpose. Discover the fine line between capitulation and embracing challenges head-on, and how this balance can galvanize teams to new heights of performance while preserving the heart of empathetic leadership.

Connect with Lakshmi on LinkedIn and X:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lakshmiramaseshan/
https://x.com/LakshmiRamases2

Join HitRefresh on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday at 12 PM ET:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/midweek-hitrefresh/

Some of Lakshmi's favorite trails in Lake Forest, CA:
Whiting Ranch Wilderness Trail, Portola pkwy
https://g.co/kgs/SYk89tC
https://g.co/kgs/ckeqHTz
https://g.co/kgs/CyKMJNi

Red Rock Canyon Park Trail
https://g.co/kgs/QFYHk5J
https://g.co/kgs/SLsCa2T
https://g.co/kgs/wJtae1c

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Embark on a transformative journey with Dave Westgarth, a former psychology graduate who charted an unexpected course into the heart of Agile methodologies. Our latest episode takes you through Dave's compelling shift from academia to the front lines of the tech industry, where he learned to harness his adaptability and thirst for continuous learning as a catalyst for success. From navigating his first post-university job hurdles to evolving into a seasoned project manager, Dave's story is a beacon for anyone seeking to reinvent their career path in technology. His insights into the value of transferable skills and the strategic decision to transition from hands-on development to overseeing projects are not just inspiring—they're actionable strategies for growth in our fast-paced digital world.

We also dissect the nuts and bolts of how Agile certifications—like CAPM, PSM-1, and PSK—can be more than resume embellishments; they're pivotal for influencing project outcomes and team dynamics. Dave brings to light the power of Kanban in enhancing project flow and improving communication with stakeholders, showcasing a practical approach to applying new skills. Plus, he stresses the importance of foundational cloud certifications in bridging the gap between technical prowess and business strategy, a balance crucial for meaningful dialogues with senior management. Connect with us and Dave on LinkedIn to continue the conversation on Agile practices and to become part of a community that's reshaping the tech landscape one Agile step at a time.

Connect with Dave on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-westgarth/

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