PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

You have been told to “execute the strategy”, But does your organization even has one? If strategy looks like a list of competing priorities, you are not the problem.

In this episode, I’m talking about how PMO leaders can support strategic planning. Strategy belongs to executive leadership. PMOs can facilitate the process that creates plans people can actually act on. That means addressing the elephant in the room: What matters most? What should we stop doing? What has to happen first?

What You’ll Learn:

• How to move the conversation from project lists to outcomes.

• Why PMOs are natural planning facilitators.

• How organizational visibility improves prioritization.

• The questions leaders must answer before strategy becomes execution.

This also ties directly to the strategy lifecycle I teach inside The IMPACT Engine Book. Strategy moves through definition, translation, execution, and realization. Today’s focus is the beginning, where clarity is built before delivery starts.

Press play to hear how PMO leaders can guide strategic planning conversations, help executives prioritize what matters most, and translate strategy into work the organization can actually deliver.

P.S. Celebrate and Elevate the PMO with International PMO Day. This special event celebrates PMO leaders who make an IMPACT and earn their seat at the table by solving real PMO challenges. I see you. This event is for you. Learn more about IPMO day here!

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights!

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

Mentioned in this episode:

355: The Strategy Gap Your PMO Must Close Now

PMI Talent Triangle: Ways of Working

Meetings aren’t the enemy. Dependency is.

In this episode, I address a problem many PMO and transformation leaders quietly create: operating models where nothing moves unless everyone gathers in a room. Meetings are part of leadership. Alignment, tradeoffs, escalation, and decisions often require conversation.

But when calendars become the operating model, execution suffers.

If your team spends all day in meetings and all night doing the real work, that’s not a productivity issue. It’s a system design issue.

Key Takeaways:

1. Why meeting saturation signals weak governance design.
2. How undefined decision rights create calendar dependency.
3. The difference between decision-driven meetings and status theater.
4. Why execution shifts to nights and weekends in over-scheduled cultures.
5. How to redesign your environment so meetings produce leverage

A portfolio review that makes no prioritization decisions isn’t governance. It’s performance.

👉 Press play to hear your next move. When meeting them changes nothing.

P.S. If your PMO is struggling to show strategic value, positioning may be the problem. Watch the free Rescue Your PMO webinar to diagnose what’s off track. Get the exact steps to turn things around fast. Learn more and register now.

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights!

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Ways of Working

Most PMOs acknowledge risk management. Very few actually practice it. There is a difference between logging risks and managing them, and that gap is quietly costing organizations the projects they cannot afford to lose.

In this episode of the PMO Strategies podcast, I am joined by Russ Parker, PMP®, PMI-RMP®, PMI-ACP®, owner of 44 Risk PM and a retired U.S. Marine Corps officer. Russ draws direct parallels between military planning discipline and how project organizations should embed real risk expertise to stop operating in perpetual crisis mode and start delivering the outcomes they were hired to produce.

Key Takeaways:

• Why risk registers get created once and never revisited, and the pattern behind it
• The three root causes that turn risk management into an organizational formality
• How project managers accidentally become fire starters instead of fire preventers
• What a Risk Management Professional actually does inside a PMO
• How AI accelerates risk identification, historical analysis, and risk workshop preparation
• One of the most underused tools in project management
• Why positive risks are being ignored and what that costs your project delivery
• Practical steps to build risk management discipline right now

Press play to discover how adding disciplined, specialized risk management to your PMO structure could be the most strategic decision you make for your project delivery outcomes this year.

Connect with Russ Parker:

Follow Russ on LinkedIn

Learn more about 44 Risk PM

Subscribe to The Bearded Risk PM on YouTube

P.S. Is your PMO seen as overhead instead of strategic? Most PMOs don't fail because of people or tools. They fail because of positioning. Watch the free Rescue Your PMO webinar to assess what's going wrong and fix it fast. Learn more and register now.

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights!

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Failure hits differently when you lead transformation.

When governance fails to stick. When prioritization gets ignored.

When a roadmap stalls. It feels personal.

But what if it's not failure? What if it's feedback?

In this episode, I challenge the belief that setbacks are verdicts.

We reframe them as data that sharpens strategy and design.

What You'll Learn:

• Why transformation setbacks feel personal for PMO leaders

• The difference between failure thinking and feedback thinking

• How governance breakdowns expose executive misalignment

• The early career lesson that led to The IMPACT Engine

• What failing forward looks like in disciplined PMO leadership

🎧 Press play to shift from protecting credibility to strengthening your system.

P.S. Is your PMO seen as overhead instead of strategic? Most PMOs don't fail because of people or tools. They fail because of positioning. Watch the free Rescue Your PMO webinar to assess what's going wrong and fix it fast. Learn more and register now.

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights!

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Ways of Working

Challenge a common belief: moving faster means accepting more risk. 

That tradeoff is outdated. 

My guest this week is Egil Østhus, Co-founder and CEO of Unleash, a leading open-source feature management platform helping enterprises reduce innovation risk and connect software delivery directly to measurable business outcomes. Egil brings experience from both engineering and PMO leadership roles, giving him a rare perspective that bridges strategy, delivery, and real-world execution. 

Together, we explore how PMO and transformation leaders can go fast and stay in control by shifting from celebrating releases to measuring real business outcomes. Traditional delivery metrics like on-time and on-budget are not enough. Senior leaders don’t care that software was deployed. They care whether it improved customer experience, reduced risk, or increased revenue. 

What You’ll Learn: 

• Why shipping to production is not the same as delivering business value 
• How controlled feature releases create faster learning cycles 
• Why small experiments outperform large scope commitments 
• How to measure success through stakeholder-defined outcomes 

If you are ready to accelerate strategy delivery without creating operational chaos, this episode will reshape how you think about speed, risk, and IMPACT. 

👉 Press play and start iterating your way to measurable business value. 

Connect with Egil: 

Follow him on LinkedIn 

Learn more about Unleash 

P.S. It’s time to look at the system behind your strategy execution. The IMPACT Engine System™ gives you the structured framework to align initiatives to real business outcomes and drive measurable IMPACT across your organization. Learn more and register now. Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

Industry benchmarking has become one of the most sophisticated ways leaders justify decisions they already want to make.  

“Top-performing organizations are doing this.”  

“Best-in-class companies operate at this maturity level.”  

Suddenly the direction feels obvious. Except it isn’t. 

In this episode, I examine how benchmarking quietly derails performance when context is mistaken for strategy. Maturity chasing feels disciplined. Governance expansion feels responsible. But when structure outpaces capability, execution slows instead of accelerates. 

You’ll hear why benchmarking is politically powerful, how maturity models create false signals of advancement, and where complexity without capability creates fragility inside your governance systems. 

What You’ll Learn 

1️⃣Why benchmarking reduces accountability instead of strengthening it 

2️⃣How maturity scores improve while performance stays flat 

3️⃣The structural law that complexity must match capability 

4️⃣The disciplined test leaders should apply before adopting any benchmark 

▶️Press play to learn how to design governance systems for measurable IMPACT instead of optics. 

P.S. Stop doing everything yourself and start driving transformation. The IMPACT Engine System™ is our self-paced, implementation framework designed for strategy delivery leaders. Show up with the clarity and confidence your organization needs. Learn more and get started today! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

If spreadsheets were the secret to PMO credibility, you’d already have a seat at the executive table. 

Instead, many PMO leaders are buried in trackers, refining templates, and chasing status updates… still not being seen as strategic partners. 

In this episode, I’m reflecting on why tools feel productive but often keep you stuck. I share how over-processing slows you down, how documentation gets mistaken for delivery, and what to focus on instead if you actually want traction and trust. 

What You’ll Learn: 

✅ Why tools feel safe but don’t build credibility 

✅ How over-governance turns you into the bottleneck 

✅ Why documentation is not the same as delivery 

✅ What happens when you stay buried in templates 

✅ How to pivot from tracking activity to driving real business value 

Spreadsheets are useful. Templates are helpful. But they are not the secret to successful leadership. 

👉 Press play and learn how to stop hiding in tools and start leading with strategy.  

P.S. If you’re tired of polishing dashboards and ready to build a true strategic operating system, the IMPACT Engine System™ gives you the framework to shift from tracking work to driving measurable IMPACT. Learn more and register today! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

If someone looked at your calendar for the last two weeks, would they see a business leader or a high-priced administrative assistant? 

You tell everyone you’re strategic. You say you’re focused on value. But if your day is packed wall to wall with status updates, meeting invites, and data chasing, your calendar is telling a different story. It’s telling your organization that you are in the weeds, you’re overwhelmed, and you aren’t available for the strategic conversations that actually move the needle. 

In this episode, we talk about the "Time Audit." I share a story about a colleague who mastered the "Power Hour" and why most PMO leaders are doing $15 an hour work while receiving a $50 an hour paycheck. It is time to stop proving you can do everything and start showing you know what to prioritize. 

What You’ll Learn: 

• How to conduct a real time audit to identify your leadership leaks 
• The math behind why "comfort work" is threatening your strategic value perception 
• Why no one ever got promoted for being excellent at Excel 
• How to reclaim your "Power Hour" to focus on strategy before execution 

▶ Press ️play to learn how to audit your time and shift your focus back to where it belongs: on strategy, alignment, and driving business IMPACT. 

P.S. Looking for more guidance on how to build your strategic value as a PMO, transformation, or strategy delivery leader? The IMPACT Engine System helps leadership teams shift from reactive oversight to outcome ownership with the strategic alignment and clarity they need. Learn more and get started today!   

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Ways of Working

Is your PMO measured by how tightly it controls process and compliance, or by how much it actually contributes to the bottom line? 

Old school PMOs were built for predictability, documentation, and control. In a business landscape that moves this fast, that model has a shelf life. The real divide today is control versus contribution. The PMOs that adapt faster deliver outcomes sooner, earn stakeholder trust, and prove their value with data. 

In this episode, I have an incredible conversation with Youssef Mouzahem, Senior Associate Director of Commercial and Contracts at Jacobs. We dig into how you can evolve your PMO from enforcing processes to driving real business value.

What You’ll Learn: 

• Why traditional PMOs are losing relevance and exactly what is replacing them 
• How to balance structure with speed through adaptive governance 
• The critical role of predictive analytics in proving business value to executives 
• How to move your PMO from compliance driven to results driven 
• The first steps to diagnose your PMO’s maturity and start building your roadmap 

▶ Press ️play to learn how to shift your PMO from process-heavy control to an agile, data-driven engine of measurable business value. 

Connect with Youssef Mouzahem: 

Follow Youssef on LinkedIn 

Learn More About Jacobs

P.S. The IMPACT Engine System helps leadership teams shift from reactive oversight to outcome ownership with the strategic alignment and clarity they need. Learn more and get started today!  

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

85% of managers are accidental managers; promoted without preparation. So how do you uncover blind spots, strengthen psychological safety, and lead with clarity? 

Ben Perreau, CEO of Parafoil, combines AI and behavioral science to help managers become stronger leaders. Discover why traditional leadership development fails PMO leaders and how leadership intelligence offers a practical approach to continuous growth through real-time feedback. 

What You’ll Learn: 

• Why 85% of managers feel unprepared for leadership 
• Blind spots AI helps you spot in real time 
• How AI-powered feedback differs from traditional coaching 
• The single most important feedback ritual every leader needs to put in place 
• Why your superpower isn't in fixing weaknesses; it's in building on your strengths 

Press ▶️ play above to discover how leadership intelligence can transform the way you lead your team. 

Connect with Ben 

Email the Parafoil team 

Connect on LinkedIn 

P.S. Want to move from accidental manager to strategic leader? The IMPACT Engine System gives you the framework to uncover your blind spots, build team trust, and lead with confidence. Learn more and register here. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

You know that feeling when you're working incredibly hard, but executives still ask, "What is the PMO actually doing?" 

It's frustrating. You're drowning in meetings, status reports, dashboards, and escalations. So much motion, yet stakeholders still don't see your value. 

The problem isn't your effort. It's clarity. 

In this episode, I'm sharing three deceptively simple questions that change everything about how you're perceived as a PMO or transformation leader. These questions are the difference between being seen as someone who tracks work and being seen as someone who drives business outcomes. 

When you consistently ask these questions, you stop sounding like an order taker and start sounding like a strategist. You move from execution to intent. From activity to IMPACT. 

What you'll learn: 

• How to reframe your work in business terms that resonate with executives  
• Why "because leadership asked for it" is a red flag for misalignment 
• The fastest way to build credibility by reporting IMPACT instead of progress  
• How these three questions anchor directly into the IMPACT Engine System  
• How to transform your PMO from a reporting function to a support partner 

👉 Press play to discover how three simple questions can elevate your entire approach to PMO leadership. 

P.S. If you're ready to become the strategy navigator your business needs, the IMPACT Engine Practitioner Certification gives you the coaching, tools, and step-by-step framework to make it happen. This live online workshop runs for four half-day sessions: February 11-12 and 18-19, 2026. Learn more and register now! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

There’s a moment I see over and over again with PMO leaders. 

You’re working hard. 

You’re doing what you were taught. 

You’re tracking delivery, building governance, reporting status, and trying to “earn” credibility. 

And yet…you’re still stuck. 

Still being pulled into admin work. 

Still left out of strategy conversations. 

Still wondering why leadership doesn’t see you as a true partner. 

In this episode of the PMO Strategies podcast, I’m sharing 10 things PMO leaders need to know, but probably don’t. 

Not because you’re not capable. Not because you’re doing it wrong. But because most PMO leaders were never taught what actually builds credibility, trust, and influence at the leadership level. 

What you’ll learn: 

• Why being busy doesn’t equal being strategic 
• The difference between project delivery and strategy delivery 
• Why confidence comes from structure, not having all the answers 
• How reporting activity erodes credibility while outcomes build trust 
• What PMO leaders must stop doing if they want a seat at the table 

🎧 Click play now to rethink what it really means to lead a PMO. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

Have you ever spent weeks crafting the "perfect" PMO charter, got executive sign-off, and then watched it collect dust while stakeholders still questioned your value? 

Here's what nobody tells you: You don't need a charter. Not first. Not yet. And maybe not at all. 

In this episode, I'm calling out the biggest myth in PMO establishment—that you need a formal charter to be legitimate. 

Spoiler alert: Projects need charters. But if you're building a strategic function? You need something completely different. 

Here's what you'll discover: 

• Why charters are strategy in a vacuum (and how that backfires) 
• The six stages of the IMPACT Engine System™ that successful PMOs follow 
• How to build trust and credibility BEFORE you define your structure 
• Why you need a business plan, not a charter 
• The exact process for co-creating services that stakeholders actually want 

Bottom line: Does the sales department have a charter? Does IT? Does Finance? No. They have business plans. Because they're built to deliver ongoing value, not temporary results. 

Your PMO is no different. 

Ready to stop defending promises you made too early and start building a PMO the business actually wants? 

Click play to listen now and learn why the traditional charter approach sets you up for failure (it's basically strategy in a vacuum), and what successful PMOs do instead. 

P.S. If you're ready to become the strategy navigator your business needs, the IMPACT Engine Practitioner Certification gives you the coaching, tools, and step-by-step framework to make it happen. This live online workshop runs for four half-day sessions: February 11-12 and 18-19, 2026. Learn more and register now! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Confidence as a PMO leader doesn’t come from having the loudest voice in the room, the most templates, or the perfect dashboard. Real confidence comes from clarity—knowing what matters, why it matters, and how the work you’re leading actually creates impact. 

In this episode of the PMO Strategies podcast, I describe what confidence really looks like for PMO leaders, why so many capable leaders struggle with self-doubt, and how a trusted framework changes everything. We talk about the hidden cost of operating in reactive mode and how clarity—not hustle—is what builds confidence that lasts. 

Through real-world examples and a powerful leadership story, I share how PMO leaders can stop second-guessing themselves and start leading with intention, credibility, and IMPACT. 

What you’ll learn 

• Why confidence is rooted in clarity, not charisma 
• How operating without structure erodes leadership confidence 
• Where confident PMO leaders actually get their confidence 
• How a trusted framework eliminates second-guessing 
• Why clarity fuels credibility and influence 

🎧 Listen now to learn how to become a confident PMO leader with a roadmap you can trust. 

🎯 Learn more: 

If you’re ready to stop winging it and start leading with confidence, the IMPACT Engine Practitioner Certification gives you a proven framework to design, deliver, and communicate PMO value with clarity. This live online workshop runs for four half-day sessions February 11-12 and 18-19. Learn more and register today! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Hello January! New year, new PMO goals!  

By now, I’m guessing you’re already dealing with a full inbox and back-to-back meetings. And just like that...the excitement you had about improving your PMO is starting to fade as the noise takes over again.  

This is the point where most PMO leaders start losing the year. Not in March. Not in Q2. Right here, when urgency returns faster than intention does. 

In this episode, I’m not talking about resolutions. I’m talking about structure. The kind that changes what you say yes to, what you say no to, and how you set focus before the calendar fills up. 

You’ll learn: 

✅ Why resolutions fail leaders and what strategic leaders do instead. 

✅ How to define one leadership decision that changes how you show up. 

✅ How to choose a 30-day outcome that creates visible momentum. 

✅ How to align with executives and stakeholders before you deliver. 

✅ A practical weekly playbook to protect focus and show progress fast. 

👉 Press play to avoid starting January on autopilot. And don’t forget to download the Start Stronger worksheet so you can lock your leadership decision, set your January outcome, and build a 30-day plan that holds once the pressure ramps up. 

P.S. If you missed the first session, this is your opportunity to catch it live. I’m hosting another FREE live workshop, Building a Case for a Strategy-Driven PMO, on January 15 from 11:00–12:30 pm Eastern. We’ll focus on how to diagnose what’s getting in the way, align stakeholders, and build delivery plans that create visible results. This is your chance to work through it with me in real time. 👉 Learn more and register today! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

As the year comes to a close, most PMO and transformation leaders are scrambling to finish projects, finalize reports, or jump straight into planning for next year. But here’s the question I want you to stop and ask yourself: are you reviewing what you did this year, or the IMPACT you already created? That difference lies between ending the year exhausted and starting the next one positioned as a strategic leader.

In this episode, I walk you through a different way to close the year. Instead of treating your year-end review as a status report, I show you how to turn it into a strategy conversation. Focus instead on reflecting with purpose, eliminating work that drains your credibility, and clearly articulating the business value you created, so leaders actually pay attention.

You’ll learn:

✅ How to reframe your year-end review around outcomes, not activity.

✅ What to stop doing so you can focus on higher-IMPACT work.

✅ How to position elimination as strategic leadership, not laziness.

✅ How to turn your year-end review into a forward-looking strategy conversation.

👉 Press play to close the year strong, reclaim your focus, and position yourself as a leader who drives real IMPACT. And don’t forget to download your Year-End Leadership Reset workbook to ensure you’re all set for what’s to come in 2026.

P.S. If you're ready to move beyond task tracking and prove your PMO's strategic value, it’s time to claim your seat in the IMPACT Engine Practitioner Certification program. This isn't about collecting another credential for your resume; it's about mastering a proven system that gets you a seat at the leadership table.

👉 Learn more and register today!

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights!

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

How many certifications do you need before you’re “ready”? One more? Two?

Here’s the truth: you’ll never feel ready by studying more. Because credibility doesn’t come from the letters after your name. It comes from the battles you’ve won, the chaos you’ve managed, and the decisions you’ve made when there was no textbook answer.

In this episode, I am sharing the credential trap I hear constantly from PMO leaders and project professionals: “I’m not ready yet.” “I need to know more.” “Once I have my [insert acronym], then I’ll be taken seriously.”

This mindset isn’t protecting you; it’s paralyzing you. Chasing certifications can feel like progress while keeping you stuck in “polished procrastination,” especially when it’s the typical cram, exam, and forget cycle.

You’ll learn:

✅ Why certifications can give you frameworks and language, but not credibility.

✅ How “one more certification” often becomes polished procrastination.

✅ Why executives don’t care what you know, but what you can do with that knowledge.

✅ How your real-world experience becomes proof that earns a seat at the table.

✅ What to look for in a certification if you want real application, not memorization.

👉 Press play to stop waiting to feel “qualified enough,” own the credibility you’ve already earned, and lead with the confidence that comes from doing the work and delivering IMPACT.

P.S. If you're ready to move beyond task tracking and prove your PMO's strategic value, it’s time to claim your seat in the IMPACT Engine Practitioner Certification program. This isn't about collecting another credential for your resume; it's about mastering a proven system that gets you a seat at the leadership table. Learn more and register today!

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights!

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

If you’ve spent any time in project delivery, you’ve probably heard the phrase “delivering value” more times than you can count. Leaders talk about driving outcomes, creating value streams, and measuring benefits. Yet right when you think everyone’s aligned on what that means, it becomes clear that no one’s talking about the same thing. 

In this episode, I’m joined by Trevor Nelson, a seasoned project leader who’s helped organizations across industries redefine how they see and deliver value. Together, we explore what value truly is, where it lives across the project lifecycle, and the critical role the PMO plays in protecting that intent from idea to outcome. 

You’ll Learn: 

✅ Why “value” isn’t a fixed metric and changes based on intent and perception. 

✅ How to identify where value really lives across the project continuum. 

✅ The difference between producing deliverables and delivering outcomes. 

✅ Why PMOs must be involved early to guide alignment and sustain intent. 

✅ How focusing on intent turns the PMO into a trusted business partner. 

👉 Press play to learn how redefining value can transform your PMO from a process office into a true strategic navigator that protects intent, accelerates outcomes, and drives measurable IMPACT. 

Connect with Trevor: 

Follow him on LinkedIn 

Visit NelsonProject.com 

P.S. Ready to transform your PMO into a strategic powerhouse? Our IMPACT Engine System can help you elevate your PMO’s role and drive organizational success. Register today to explore how we can support your journey towards strategic alignment and influence. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Every great project tells a story, and the best ones play out like blockbuster movies. 

In this episode, I'm joined by Dawn Mahan, co-editor of Projectland Goes to the Movies and author of Meet the Players in Projectland. We're talking about how more than 20 experts used their favorite films to share timeless lessons on vision, leadership, and collaboration. 

If you've ever wished project management felt more like directing a hit film and less like fighting through endless plot twists, this one's for you. 

I'll show you how the same principles that drive movie success—clarity of vision, confident direction, and authentic teamwork—also define the projects that deliver real IMPACT. Plus, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at my own chapter inspired by Moneyball and Dawn's by The Italian Job. 

What You'll Learn: 

• How movie storytelling mirrors every stage of project success 
• The leadership lessons hidden in popular films 
• Why every PMO leader needs to think like a director 
• How to turn chaos, change, and conflict into collaboration that wins 

👉 Press play to discover how the art of great filmmaking can help you set the vision, direct the action, and create your own story of IMPACT in Projectland. 

Connect with Dawn: 

Follow Dawn on LinkedIn 

Visit PMOtraining.com 

Access Meet the Players in Projectland 

🎧 Companion Episode: Don't miss Episode 250—How to Build a PMO That Drives Results for deeper insights on this topic. 

Receive a confidential sample of Meet the Players in Projectland: Decide the Right Project Roles & Get People on Board 

P.S. Ready to lead where strategy happens? The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you the coaching, tools, and community you need to stop operating like a support function and start driving the business outcomes your executives are counting on. Click here to learn more! 🚀

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Your words either build trust or break it. And when you talk like you're overwhelmed, you train your leaders to doubt your capacity—even if you're actually capable of more. 

In this episode, I'm sharing the unintended cost of sounding stressed and how high-performing leaders can protect their credibility by changing how they communicate under pressure. 

I walk you through how language shapes perception, why leaders often send the wrong signals without realizing it, and how to shift from overwhelm to ownership without pretending everything's fine. 

If you've ever said "I'm slammed" or "We're swamped" in a status meeting, when what you meant was "We've got it under control," this episode is for you. 

What You'll Learn: 

• Why saying "we're overwhelmed" chips away at leadership trust 
• How to frame pressure with structure instead of stress 
• What executives actually hear when you vent 
• Real-world leadership language that builds confidence 
• How to communicate risk and ask for support without spiraling 

👉 Press play to learn how to lead through pressure and talk like the leader they trust with more. 

P.S. Ready to transform your PMO into a strategic powerhouse? Our IMPACT Engine System can help you elevate your PMO’s role and drive organizational success. Register today to explore how we can support your journey towards strategic alignment and influence. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

PMO leaders are great at execution. They know how to plan, deliver, and measure. But when change accelerates, those same strengths can become constraints. What’s missing isn’t discipline or process—it’s imagination. 

A failure of imagination is what causes teams to drift, leaders to burn out, and organizations to lose alignment. We picture success differently, chase separate goals, and end up working harder without getting closer to what really matters. Imagination isn’t fluff—it’s a serious strategic tool that helps you see around corners, prepare for what’s next, and create shared clarity before execution begins. 

In this episode, you’ll learn how to use imagination as a competitive advantage. Dr. Rebecca Sutherns shares how PMO and transformation leaders can stretch their thinking with her ELASTIC leadership framework—and how imagination, when practiced collectively, can align stakeholders, energize teams, and turn your PMO into a true strategic IMPACT engine. 

You'll Learn:  

• Why a failure of imagination leads to misalignment and drift. 
• How to build a shared, vivid vision that aligns people. 
• How to use imagination to strengthen strategy, not replace it. 
• What the ELASTIC leadership framework teaches about leadership. 
• A simple way to bring imagination into your next planning conversation. 

👉 Press play to see how imagination can move your PMO from order-taker to strategy-shaper—and help you lead the future, not just respond to it. 

P.S. Ready to lead where strategy happens? The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you the coaching, tools, and community you need to stop operating like a support function and start driving the business outcomes your executives are counting on. Click here to learn more! 🚀

Connect with Dr. Rebecca Sutherns: 

Follow her on LinkedIn 

Listen to her podcast interviews

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Being useful is fine. But being indispensable? That’s a whole other level. 

This is what it means to be the ride-or-die right hand. The person leaders don’t have to chase, double-check, or worry about. The one who delivers relief and results when the pressure is on. 

So if leaders are looking for someone they can truly count on, how do you make sure that’s you? 

In this week’s episode of the PMO Strategies podcast, I share why being the “I’ve got your back” leader changes everything, how to shift from optional to essential, and what it takes to earn the kind of loyalty that executives reward with trust, opportunity, and investment. 

What You'll Learn:  

• Why executives don’t need more reports. 
• How to become the “ride-or-die” right hand to your leaders. 
• Why being indispensable goes beyond doing your job well. 
• How to anticipate problems and protect your leader’s credibility. 
• What loyalty looks like when you show up as the calm in the storm. 
• How to ask the right questions to shift from staff to essential. 

👉 Press play to learn how to become the one your leaders can’t lead without, and build the trust, loyalty, and presence that drive IMPACT. 

P.S. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book—it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free—grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Do you ever feel like your week is one long emergency response drill? 

Most PMO and transformation leaders have spent their careers being rewarded for saving the day. But what if the very skills that got you here are now the reason you’re stuck in firefighting mode? 

In this episode, I’m joined by Jimmy Burroughes, high-performance leadership expert, host of The High Performance Leader Podcast, and author of Beat Burnout, Ignite Performance and Escape the Multitasking Trap. Together, we explore how to break free from reactive leadership and shift into the kind of strategic confidence that creates measurable IMPACT. 

Jimmy’s “village fisherman” and “icebreaker leader” analogy reveals the real mindset shift that separates busy managers from true leaders. He explains how those leaders create space, clarity, and trust so their teams can deliver results without constant oversight. 

If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything right yet still burning out, this episode will show you how to reclaim time, empower your team, and build a sustainable rhythm of leadership that doesn’t depend on chaos to prove your value. 

What You'll Learn: 

• The biggest trap keeping leaders stuck in firefighting mode and how to escape it. 
• How to reclaim 6+ hours weekly to focus on what drives business value. 
• The “village fisherman vs. icebreaker leader” framework to change how you lead. 
• Why confidence, clarity, and coaching are the secret to self-sufficient teams. 
• How managing energy helps you lead with clarity and long-term IMPACT. 

👉 Press play to learn how to stop saving the day and start leading it by building the systems, confidence, and capacity that turn firefighting into focused, strategic leadership. 

Connect with Jimmy: 

Follow Jimmy on LinkedIn 

Access The High Performance Leader Podcast 

P.S. Ready to lead where strategy happens? The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you the coaching, tools, and community you need to stop operating like a support function and start driving the business outcomes your executives are counting on. Click here to learn more! 🚀

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Ways of Working

We glorify being busy. The meetings, the projects, the dashboards, the endless updates. It feels like progress, but it’s not. What it really shows is how easily complexity takes over and steals focus. 

When that happens, teams stall, stakeholders disengage, and leaders confuse activity with real momentum. The result is frustration on every side. 

In this episode, I share how to recognize the complexity that slows you down, how to shift your perspective so simplicity becomes a leadership decision, and why the ability to say “no” is what creates clarity, trust, and measurable IMPACT. 

What You’ll Learn: 

• Why complexity becomes the default in most organizations 
• How simplicity creates clarity, momentum, and stakeholder confidence 
• What changed when I simplified my own business 
• The false belief that doing more proves leadership value 
• How PMO leaders can build trust for stakeholders 

👉 Press play to learn why simplicity is not about doing less. It is about doing the right things, really well. 

P.S. Ready to transform your PMO into a strategic powerhouse? Our IMPACT Engine System can help you elevate your PMO’s role and drive organizational success. Register today to explore how we can support your journey towards strategic alignment and influence. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Every organization talks about leadership and agility, but few know how to make them real when disruption hits. 

When the pace of change never slows, how do you lead with clarity instead of reacting in chaos? 

In this episode, I’m joined by Ken Banta, founder and CEO of The Vanguard Network and author of Seeing Around Corners: Leadership in an Era of Disruption. Together, we explore what it really takes to lead with clarity and confidence when the pace of change never slows down. 

Ken and I discuss how self-awareness, adaptability, and influence are redefining leadership for the next decade— and how PMO and transformation leaders can move from simply managing change to anticipating it. 

You’ll learn how to shift from task-focused management to outcome-driven leadership that builds executive trust and drives measurable business value. 

The best leaders aren’t just delivering projects. They’re strategy navigators who connect the C-suite vision with on-the-ground execution. When PMO and transformation leaders build that bridge, they become the early-warning system executives rely on to see around corners and deliver lasting IMPACT. 

What You'll Learn:  

✅ What “seeing around corners” really means in practice 

✅ How to use self-awareness to lead with credibility and purpose 

✅ The difference between management and adaptive leadership 

✅ Why PMO leaders are the translation link between the C-suite and delivery teams 

✅ How adaptability and agility turn disruption into measurable IMPACT  

It’s time to get clear on what true leadership looks like in an era of disruption and how to evolve fast enough to stay ahead of it. 

👉 Press play to discover how leadership built on awareness, agility, and trust helps PMO and transformation leaders turn uncertainty into IMPACT. 

Connect with Ken: 

Follow him on LinkedIn 

Visit www.thevanguardnetwork.com 

P.S. Ready to lead where strategy happens? The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you the coaching, tools, and community you need to stop operating like a support function and start driving the business outcomes your executives are counting on. Click here to learn more! 🚀

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

We’ve all been told that the safest hire is the one with the most experience. 

But here’s the truth: experience doesn’t guarantee IMPACT. 

In this episode, I challenge the old belief that more experience automatically makes a better hire. I share a story from a PMO leader who kept meeting senior candidates with impressive résumés—people who loved their methodology but couldn’t flex with modern, collaborative ways of working. Some wouldn’t move forward without every document perfectly approved. Others resisted iterative planning altogether. 

Sound familiar? Experience is valuable, but mindset wins every time. 

What You'll Learn:  

✅ Why the “more experience, better hire” belief breaks down 

✅ The real pros and cons of hiring experienced PMs 

✅ The strengths and gaps of junior and mid-level PMs 

✅ The traits to hire for, including the IMPACT Driver mindset and outcome focus 

✅ Interview questions that reveal adaptability, judgment, and value-driven thinking 

👉 Press play to learn how to hire for the future, not the past. 

P.S. Ready to lead where strategy happens? The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you the coaching, tools, and community you need to stop operating like a support function and start driving the business outcomes your executives are counting on. Click here to learn more! 🚀

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

Time. Scope. Budget. They're the scoreboard most teams are told to play by. 

But what if meeting those marks isn’t what earns you a win—at least not in the eyes of your stakeholders? 

In this episode, I’m joined by Dave Garrett, Senior Advisor to the CEO at PMI (Project Management Institute) and the architect behind PMI’s largest-ever global research study on Maximizing Project Success. Together, we discuss how the definition of project success is changing and what it means for project and PMO leaders who want to stay relevant. 

Dave and I address why success is no longer about project management metrics. It's about value. Specifically, value that was worth the effort and expense in the eyes of the customer. 

You’ll also hear how this shift is sparking a new era of leadership thinking, capability building, and organizational alignment. There’s so much more to project success than the triple constraint. 

What You'll Learn:  

• Why project success and project management success are not the same 
• The real definition of success, based on global research 
• How customer perception is now the most powerful success metric 
• The role of the MORE mindset and how to lead beyond project close 
• How to build trust, measure value, and drive outcomes that matter 

Get clear on what success really means and what it takes to deliver it. 

👉 Press play to learn how the future of project success belongs to those who lead with value, not just metrics. 

Connect with Dave: 

Follow him on LinkedIn 

Read PMI’s Maximizing Project Success report 

P.S. The IMPACT Driver Intensive helps leadership teams shift from reactive oversight to outcome ownership—with the strategy alignment, clarity, and business value focus they need to deliver what actually matters. Click here to learn how you can lead strategy execution with confidence and clarity. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Ways of Working

Growth in a PMO career often gets measured by titles or the size of the portfolio you manage. But in reality, leadership growth is about making the right shifts at the right time. 

If you’ve been delivering results but still feel stuck, it’s not because you lack talent. It’s because every stage of your career calls for a different focus. Without making those shifts, you can stall out before you reach your full potential. The constant activity, the heavy processes, the endless reporting—that’s the friction. And friction keeps you from leading at the level you’re capable of. 

In this episode, I’ll walk you through the three stages of PMO leadership growth, what to focus on in each one, and how to make each transition without burning out. You’ll see where you are now, what to stop doing, and what to lean into so you can lead with clarity and create lasting IMPACT.  

You'll Learn:  

• The three key stages most PMO leaders move through. 
• How to shift from order taker to IMPACT Driver. 
• Why centering your PMO on business value changes your visibility. 
• The leadership moves that turn ownership into true influence. 
• How to focus on what matters most right now so you can transition smoothly. 

👉 Press play to find out where you are in your leadership journey and what to focus on next to move from projects to power. 

P.S. Ready to lead where strategy happens? The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you the coaching, tools, and community you need to stop operating like a support function and start driving the business outcomes your executives are counting on. Click here to learn more! 🚀

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

Luxury isn’t about cost. It’s about how people feel when they interact with you. 

This is what it means to adopt a luxury mindset. Leaders who stop acting like task-driven order takers and start thinking like concierges create experiences that build trust, influence, and lasting IMPACT. 

So if stakeholders are craving more connection and executives are looking for advocates they can count on, how do you rise to that level? 

In this week’s episode of the PMO Strategies Podcast, I’m joined by Neen James, a luxury experience expert and leadership strategist who helps C-suite leaders create exceptional experiences that drive results and deepen relationships. With clients including Four Seasons, Comcast, and the FBI, and recognition as a Top 30 Leadership Speaker by Global Gurus, Neen brings sharp insights on how leaders can use thoughtful touches to build trust and influence at the highest levels. 

Together, we talk about how the five “luxury levers” help you elevate stakeholder engagement, shift from transactional to transformational, systemize thoughtfulness, and design champagne moments that make people feel valued. 

What You'll Learn:  

• Why luxury is about connection, not cost 
• How to think like a concierge instead of a bellhop 
• The five “luxury levers” that elevate every interaction 
• How systemized thoughtfulness builds authentic loyalty 
• What champagne moments look like inside projects and transformations 
• How personalization, customization, and anticipation win executive buy-in 

👉 Press play to learn how to build experiences that turn executives into champions, strengthen stakeholder trust, and drive lasting IMPACT. 

Connect with Neen: 

Follow her on LinkedIn 

Visit her website “Exceptional Experiences” 

Check out her Youtube channel 

Watch her “Exceptional Experiences" book trailer 

SPONSOR LINK:  

P.S. Ready to make your value visible? Inside the IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind, you'll learn how to lead with strategy, earn executive trust, and position your team as essential to business success. Get the coaching, tools, and support to drive real outcomes. Click here to learn more. 🚀 

P.P.S. There's Still Time to Celebrate The IMPACT Engine Book One-Year Anniversary! Visit The IMPACT Engine book anniversary page to check out the book specials, freebies, enter the giveaway, and see what makes the IMPACT Engine System unlike anything else. Whether you’ve been with us from the very beginning or are just discovering the movement, today’s the perfect time to celebrate with us. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Strategy is just planning for IMPACT. This is what PMO leaders do night in and night out: plan, prioritize, and align across the portfolio. That alone is influencing strategy.  

So if PMO leaders are experts in strategy, why are they still left out of strategic conversations? 

In this week’s episode of the PMO Strategies Podcast, I break down why the word “strategy” feels intimidating, why that belief holds teams back, and how to translate your daily work into the language executives expect. 

This episode is a practical guide for PMO and strategy leaders who want to lead the conversation with clarity and make the plan deliver real business value. 

What You'll Learn:  

• Why “strategy” always comes back to a plan, and how to say that in plain language 
• How to explain strategy as planning for IMPACT in terms your executives respect 
• The role strategy plays in cutting projects, surfacing bottlenecks, and aligning capacity 
• How to walk in prepared with two questions that change the room 
• What to change in planning sessions so you shift from status to choices 
• The simple language to claim your seat at the table and drive the conversation 

👉 Press play to learn how to recognize your planning as strategy, claim your seat at the table, and lead decisions that drive IMPACT. 

P.S. Ready to lead where strategy happens? The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you the coaching, tools, and community you need to stop operating like a support function and start driving the business outcomes your executives are counting on. Click here to learn more! 🚀

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills



Public sector projects rarely fail because of bad process. They fail because of behaviors no one is willing to confront. 

In this episode, I’m joined by Matthew Oleniuk, senior public sector delivery advisor, oversight leader, and founder of TheRiskInsider.com. With 15+ years managing politically sensitive, billion-dollar projects, Matthew brings a refreshingly blunt perspective on what it really takes to lead under pressure. 

We break down how project failure in the public sector often has nothing to do with method and everything to do with misaligned culture, disengaged leadership, and risks buried under “green” dashboards. 

This episode is a candid roadmap for project professionals working in highly structured, politically charged environments who are tired of pretending the system is enough and ready to start delivering anyway. 

What You'll Learn:  

• Why green dashboards can hide red-flag behaviors that derail delivery. 
• How to stop mistaking oversight for progress. 
• Why real risks don’t show up on a register and how to name them anyway. 
• How courageous delivery leaders create “mini-cultures” of performance. 
• What to do when the culture rewards compliance over outcomes. 
• The one question every PMO should ask before creating a new tool or report. 

Press play to learn how real delivery happens when you confront what the process alone can’t fix. 

Connect with Matthew: 

Follow him on LinkedIn 

Visit his website 

Get early access on his course 

Download the Public Sector Project Health Check 

P.S. If your PMO is still chasing tasks instead of driving strategy, it’s time for a reset. Join me October 15–16 for the IMPACT Engine Practitioner Course—a live, virtual two-day certification program designed to help you deliver real business value, not just reports. Seats are limited, so reserve yours now. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Many leaders think their job when stepping into an existing PMO is to keep things running smoothly. 

But most of the time? That’s exactly how you miss the chance to make it matter. 

In this episode, I walk you through how to take charge of a PMO you’ve inherited, using the IMPACT Engine framework to understand why it exists, reset its purpose, and realign it with today’s business needs so it delivers real IMPACT in its first 90 to 180 days. 

I'll share why momentum without direction is just motion and the exact steps to diagnose how your PMO is seen, reset its purpose, and make early changes that earn trust without resistance. 

This episode will give you a clear plan to reset alignment, build credibility, and create the PMO that’s needed now, not just the one you were handed. 

What You'll Learn:  

• The first shift you must make in week one (hint: it’s not templates). 
• How to assess reality fast without a months-long audit. 
• Which 2–3 high-IMPACT services to (re)launch first. 
• Building a 90–180 day plan that earns buy-in and trust. 
• How to prove the model with early wins leaders can feel. 
• The rhythm to keep relevance as strategy changes. 

👉 Press play to learn how to step into an existing PMO, earn trust fast, and set the stage for real IMPACT. 

P.S. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book — it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free — grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next. 

P.P.S. On September 10, we’re celebrating the one-year anniversary of The IMPACT Engine! Whether you already own the book or have been waiting to grab a copy, now’s your chance. Not on the newsletter yet? Join today so you don’t miss the exclusive September 9 sneak peek at special offers and giveaways—my way of saying thanks for an incredibly IMPACTful year! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Everyone thinks strategy fails because of poor execution. 

But most of the time? It’s poor communication. 

In this episode, I’m joined by Dori Gilbert—an executive coach, transformation strategist, and certified PMO leader who’s helped delivery teams and executives close the gap between strategy and execution by developing what she calls “communication agility.” It’s a framework built on three essential traits: courage, context, and conflict fluency. 

We get into why executives hesitate to delegate, why middle managers struggle to advocate, and why project leaders often avoid the very conversations that could change everything. This episode gives you practical tools to build trust, shift perception, and communicate with strategic presence—even when the stakes are high. 

This episode will give you a clear path to elevating your visibility, earning stakeholder buy-in, and leading through change with confidence and clarity. 

What You'll Learn:  

• Why leaders don’t trust handoffs (and how to fix it) 
• The 3Cs of Communication Agility 
• How to develop strategic presence (without faking confidence) 
• What “empathetic action” looks like in real conversations 
• How to lead up, out, and across with clarity and influence 

👉 Press play to learn how to build real traction with your words, not just your workload. 

Connect with Dori: 

Follow her on LinkedIn 

Check out her website 

Visit KiteAgility.com 

Download Your Internal Conflict Messaging System Guide 

P.S. If you’re ready to lead with clarity instead of noise, The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you the tools, coaching, and support to communicate with confidence and influence at the highest level. Click here to learn more 🚀 

P.P.S. On September 10, we’re celebrating the one-year anniversary of The IMPACT Engine! Whether you already own the book or have been waiting to grab a copy, now’s your chance. Not on the newsletter yet? Join today so you don’t miss the exclusive September 9 sneak peek at special offers and giveaways—my way of saying thanks for an incredibly IMPACTful year! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

PMOs were never meant to be just about tracking outputs. The real reason executive teams approve the creation of a PMO is to drive better business outcomes. 

In this episode, I’m talking about how the original purpose of the PMO has been buried under layers of process, compliance, and bureaucracy—and what it takes to bring it back to driving meaningful results. 

I break down why purpose must come before process, how too many PMOs have slipped into measuring activity instead of outcomes, and the three commitments I’ve seen high-IMPACT PMOs make that set them apart from the rest. 

This episode is your blueprint for shifting the conversation from project volume to business velocity—especially if your PMO is being recognized more for producing status reports than for delivering strategic IMPACT. 

What You'll Learn:  

• Why PMOs that focus on outcomes over process always win 
• How to set strategy up for success before execution even begins 
• Ways to optimize delivery systems to accelerate results, not slow them down 
• How to hold your PMO accountable to real-world business outcomes 
• Practical steps to reframe your value without waiting for permission 

👉 Press play to learn how to build real traction with your words—not just your workload. 

P.S. Looking to shift your PMO from execution to true strategic influence? The IMPACT Engine System gives you a clear, step-by-step path to deliver measurable outcomes, build executive trust, and elevate your role across the organization—without the chaos and overwhelm.   

P.P.S. On September 10, we’re celebrating the one-year anniversary of The IMPACT Engine! Whether you already own the book or have been waiting to grab a copy, now’s your chance. Not on the newsletter yet? Join today so you don’t miss the exclusive September 9 sneak peek at special offers and giveaways—my way of saying thanks for an incredibly IMPACTful year! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

PMOs were never meant to be just support teams. They’re strategic engines—and it’s time the world caught up. 

If you’ve been delivering projects without influence, you’re missing the opportunity to lead your company’s strategy from the inside out. 

In this episode, I’m joined by Aina Alive, Founder and CEO at Bee Agile and CEO and VP of Marketing at The PMO Community, and the lead editor of the Amazon bestseller The Evolution of the PMO: Rise of the Chief Project Officer, a global collaboration from 40 thought leaders across 6 continents challenging everything we thought we knew about project leadership. 

Together, we discuss why execution is no longer a back-office function and how a new kind of leader is emerging: the Chief Project Officer (CPO). 

This isn’t about renaming the PMO. It’s about reclaiming execution as a strategic capability, and building the mindset, skills, and partnerships that turn PMO leaders into strategy navigators and trusted business advisors. 

What You'll Learn:  

• Why project execution is becoming a strategic differentiator 
• What separates the Chief Project Officer (CPO) from traditional PMO leaders 
• How to evolve from execution support to executive business partner 
• What AI is changing (and not changing) about the role of human leadership 
• Why emotional intelligence is now a core competency for PMO leaders 
• First steps to reposition your PMO as a trusted strategic arm of the business 

👉 Press play to learn how the future of execution belongs to those bold enough to lead it. 

Connect with Aina: 

Follow her on LinkedIn 

Grab the book The Evolution of the PMO & Rise of the Chief Project Officer 

Visit BeeAgile’s website 

Check out The PMO Strategy and Execution Hub 

P.S. Lead where strategy happens. The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you the coaching, tools, and support to stop operating like a support function and start delivering the business outcomes your executives are counting on. Click here to learn more! 🚀 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills



You’re delivering results. You’re solving problems. But if no one knows about it, it’s like it never happened. 

In this episode, I’m sharing why it’s not enough to simply do great work—you also need to make that work visible. I’ll walk you through how to market your IMPACT with intention, earn executive buy-in, and make sure your results actually get the recognition they deserve. 

Learn how to build credibility, boost morale, and position your PMO as an indispensable part of the business—all by making your value clear, consistent, and impossible to ignore. 

If your work is driving real outcomes behind the scenes, this episode will help you bring those wins to the forefront.  

What You'll Learn:  

• Why “doing the work” isn’t enough to earn support 
• How to build a real-time win file to track your team’s results 
• Ways to translate project activity into business outcomes 
• How to set up visibility rhythms that make your IMPACT stick 
• Why executive buy-in starts with strategic communication 
• How celebration drives morale, momentum, and recognition 

👉 Press play to learn how to make your results visible, your value clear, and your team truly unforgettable. 

P.S. Ready to make your value visible? Inside the IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind, you'll learn how to lead with strategy, earn executive trust, and position your team as essential to business success. Get the coaching, tools, and support to drive real outcomes. Click here to learn more. 🚀 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills



Everyone talks about PMO frameworks. We’re talking about the humans behind them. 

If your playbook starts with process instead of people, you're skipping the most important part of the work: understanding how your organization really functions—politically, emotionally, and psychologically. 

In this episode, I’m joined by Brandy Brown, one of our incredible IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind students, an enterprise PMO leader and organizational strategist with a background in industrial/organizational psychology. Brandy brings a human-centered approach to strategy and change, with a strong track record of driving sustainable results across complex organizations. 

We explore what actually creates traction when you're standing up or evolving a PMO. It’s not flashy launches or heavyweight governance. It’s sponsorship that challenges you, credibility built on quick wins, and a strategic approach to human behavior inside complex organizations. 

Whether you’re starting from scratch or working within an established EPMO, this episode gives you the perspective, tools, and mindset to lead real transformation.  

What You'll Learn:  

• Why understanding human behavior is a PMO essential, not a bonus 
• How Brandy used sponsorship to create traction and accountability 
• The psychology behind quick wins and credibility loops 
• How to design collaboration that builds pull (not push) 
• What it means to lead with empathy inside political organizations 

👉 Press play to learn how to build a trust-first PMO that actually sticks. 

Connect with Brandy: 

Follow her on LinkedIn 

P.S. If you're ready to master leadership mindset like Brandy, join her and other industry leaders inside the IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind! With expert coaching, deep-dive workshops, and hands-on support, you’ll get the structure and guidance to lead with clarity, deliver with purpose, and create real, lasting IMPACT. 🚀 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills



You don’t prove your leadership by taking on everything yourself. You prove it by creating space, enabling others, and delivering results that last. 

In this episode, I’m calling out the hidden cost of wearing “busy” like a badge—and why so many high-performing leaders quietly hold themselves back by refusing to ask for help. 

We’ll talk about how the lone hero mindset sabotages your growth, what real executive-level leadership looks like, and how to shift from doing the work…to leading the work. 

If you’ve been telling yourself “I’ve got it,” when what you really need is a team beside you—this conversation is for you.  

What You'll Learn:  

• Why doing it all yourself isn’t sustainable—or strategic 
• How the lone hero mindset blocks your growth 
• A real-world story of shared ownership that changed everything 
• What top executives understand about asking for help 
• How to build trust, increase clarity, and lead through others 

👉 Press play to learn how to stop doing it all alone—and start leading like an executive. 

P.S. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book—it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free—grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Ways of Working

If your projects are hitting deadlines but missing the point—this episode is for you.  

Kevin Torf isn’t interested in checking boxes. After four decades leading large-scale IT and infrastructure projects across major health systems and Fortune 500s, he’s built a reputation on one thing: getting the job done—in full, at scale, and with measurable business value.  

In this episode, Kevin breaks down the PROJECTS framework—a hybrid-Agile model designed to help PMOs lead complex initiatives with clear structure, empowered teams, and outcomes that actually matter.  

You’ll hear how high-performing organizations juggle moving targets without burning out their people, how they define governance without creating gridlock, and how they stop chasing status and start delivering strategic traction.  

Plans don’t drive value. Execution does—especially when it’s adaptive, team-driven, and outcome-focused.  

What You'll Learn:  

• Why the triple constraint won’t earn executive trust  
• How to apply Kevin’s PROJECTS framework to real-world complexity  
• What true team empowerment looks like (hint: it’s not micromanagement)  
• How to set up decision structures that accelerate, not stall  
• What to measure when “on time and on budget” isn’t enough   

👉 Press play to learn how having the right structure, teams, and rhythms moves strategy across the finish line. 

Connect with Kevin: 

Follow Kevin on LinkedIn 

Access Getting the Job Done book 

Visit T2Group 

P.S. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book—it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free—grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Resistance gets blamed on people. But in reality, it’s almost always the process. 

If your team stalls, misses deadlines, or avoids your intake forms, it's not because they don't care. It's because they’re stuck in a system full of blockers. The approvals, the checklists, the uncertainty, the silence. That’s the friction. And friction kills flow. 

In this episode, I’ll show you how to spot the systems that create resistance, how to reduce the barriers that get in your team's way, and what it really means to design for performance. 

What You’ll Learn: 

• Why resistance is usually created by the process, not the people 
• What quiet resistance actually looks like in high-performing teams 
• How to remove blockers without sacrificing accountability 
• The difference between flow and pressure 
• Why "good enough" beats perfect when you’re building momentum 

👉 Press play to find out what’s driving resistance and what to do when your system is the problem.  

P.S. Looking to shift your PMO from execution to true strategic influence? The IMPACT Engine System gives you a clear, step-by-step path to deliver measurable outcomes, build executive trust, and elevate your role across the organization—without the chaos and overwhelm.   

P.P.S. If you’ve already bought any version of The IMPACT Engine book previously, don’t forget to sign up for our Book Club. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book — it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free — grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next.

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills



This episode is personal, and it’s tactical. 

For my birthday this year, I’m sharing the 10 lessons I wish someone had handed me when I was starting out. These are the truths I had to learn the hard way: through friction, burnout, and wasted time trying to prove my value instead of designing for it. 

If you've ever spent more time defending your role than doing your job, this one's for you. 

What You’ll Learn: 

• Why “on time, on scope, on budget” is a trap 
• How to lead without waiting for permission 
• The real reason no one sees the value you’re adding 
• What friction in your process is actually costing you 
• How to build a system that speaks for itself 

👉 Press play to hear the 10 lessons that will save you years of frustration and show you how to lead with clarity, credibility, and momentum. 

P.S. It’s my birthday week, and I’m celebrating with something special just for you. 🎉 The full reveal drops publicly on my birthday—Thursday, July 10th—but newsletter subscribers get early access on Wednesday, July 9th. This exclusive offer will be available 24 hours before the release date, and quantities are limited, so be sure to subscribe and watch your inbox closely! 🎁

P.P.S. If you’ve already bought any version of The IMPACT Engine book previously, don’t forget to sign up for our Book Club. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book — it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free — grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Ways of Working

In this episode, Laura Barnard is joined by longtime friend and productivity powerhouse Elise Stevens to explore how AI is revolutionizing project delivery. Together, they break down the myths about AI taking over jobs and instead show how smart use of AI can elevate the role of delivery leaders. From email communication to risk management, Elise and Laura offer real-world, tactical advice on how to integrate AI to reduce admin burden and boost strategic IMPACT.  

What You’ll Learn: 

•  Why AI won’t replace delivery leaders but will elevate them instead 
• How to use AI tactically to simplify daily project tasks 
•  How to reduce admin work and create more space for strategic engagement 
• Which AI tools and strategies can accelerate delivery while lowering stress 
• Why the best starting point is low-stakes, high-frustration work 

👉 Press play to explore how AI is revolutionizing project delivery. 

Connect with Elise: 

Follow on LinkedIn 

Check out her website 

P.S. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book — it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free — grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills



You don’t earn confidence by reading about it. 

You earn it by doing the reps – when things get messy, when plans fall apart, when you show up anyway. 

This episode will shift how you think about confidence and what it actually takes to build it. We’re unpacking the real reason so many capable leaders hold back. It’s not that they’re unprepared. It’s that they believe confidence should come before the leap. 

Inside this episode, I’m sharing what truly builds confidence for high-IMPACT leaders. Not theory. Practice. These are the same principles we use inside the IMPACT Engine System to help transformation professionals build capability they can count on. 

You’ll hear: 

• Why confidence doesn’t lead. It follows. 
• How a keynote gone wrong became one of my most grounded moments. 
• The shift that changed how I approach fear, stage time, and risk. 
• Why building competence is the only way to create lasting confidence. 
• How we create safe, supportive practice spaces in our IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind. 

If you’ve been waiting for permission, clarity, or courage, this episode will give you something better: A starting point.  

The confidence you’re looking for lives on the other side of the work. And that work is what drives real IMPACT. 

👉 Press play and start building the confidence that shows up after you make your move. 

P.S. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book — it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free — grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next. 

P.P.S. Stop the chaos—start leading with confidence! The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you expert coaching, hands-on support, and the blueprint to deliver real business value. Ready to accelerate your success? Join us here!   

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Everyone says PMOs manage projects. We say they build leaders. 

If you’re only focused on timelines and templates, you're missing your biggest opportunity: using real work to grow real leadership. 

In this episode, I’m joined by Dawn Mahan, founder of PMOtraining.com, international speaker, and creator of the award-winning ProjectFlo® Process Learning System. Dawn coined the term Projectland® and is the bestselling author of Meet the Players in Projectland, a game-changing guide to aligning roles and driving project success. 

Together, we show exactly how your PMO can become a leadership engine by turning everyday project roles into development opportunities. This isn’t about adding more to your plate — it’s about seeing the work already in motion as a platform for growth. 

Whether you're leading a small team or managing a full portfolio, you’ll walk away with clear strategies to build talent while delivering results. 

What You'll Learn: 

• Why every role in “Projectland” is a chance to lead 
• How to spot and support hidden talent across your organization 
• Creative ways to build leadership skills in fast-paced environments 
• How to frame the PMO as a leadership development partner for executives 
• Why rotational roles, peer learning, and project-based growth can outperform traditional training 

👉 Press play to discover how your PMO can shape the leaders your organization needs most. 

Connect with Dawn: 

Follow Dawn on LinkedIn 

Visit PMOtraining.com 

Access Meet the Players in Projectland

🎧 Companion Episode: Don't miss Episode 250 – How to Build a PMO That Drives Results for deeper insights on this topic. 

Receive a confidential sample of Meet the Players in Projectland:  Decide the Right Project Roles & Get People on Board 

P.S. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book — it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free — grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

It’s time to end the turf war between product and project teams — and start building a system where both can win. 

In this episode, I’m outlining the exact steps to design a shared operating model that aligns product vision with delivery excellence. No more choosing sides. No more reorgs without results. Just a clear, practical path to accelerated strategy delivery. 

Learn to identify the key differences that make each role valuable — and show you how to turn tension into momentum, mismatched cadences into flow, and disconnected outputs into measurable outcomes. 

If your organization is serious about driving strategy forward, this episode is your blueprint. 

What You'll Learn: 

• Why role confusion is wrecking your delivery speed 
• How to co-create a delivery system — not just a plan 
• The mindset shift from activity tracking to outcome delivery 
• Ways to synchronize cadences and unify communication 
• Why product–project tension isn’t a problem — it’s rocket fuel 
• How shared wins create lasting IMPACT across the business 

👉 Press play to learn how to align product and project teams around one system, one voice, and one mission. 

P.S. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book — it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free — grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

In this episode, I’m calling out one of the most misleading narratives in modern strategy delivery: the false choice between project-based and product-based delivery models. 

If your organization is stuck in a never-ending transformation loop — chasing Agile, shifting structures, debating delivery frameworks — this episode is your wake-up call. 

It’s not about projects vs. products. 

It’s about dysfunction vs. alignment. 

You’ll learn how the highest-performing organizations are breaking free from siloed thinking and aligning product managers, project managers, and delivery teams to drive outcomes, not just activity. If your teams are moving fast but going nowhere, it’s time to rethink your operating model — and I’ll show you how. 

What You'll Learn: 

• Why the "project vs. product" debate is stalling progress 
• How flawed operating models—not frameworks—are holding you back 
• The critical role clarity executives keep overlooking 
• How to align product vision with delivery excellence 
• Why Agile alone won’t fix broken systems 
• The model top-performing organizations use to accelerate results 

👉 Press play to dismantle the false narrative and learn what really drives strategy delivery. 

P.S. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book — it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free — grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next. 

P.P.S. ONLY TWO SEATS LEFT!! Something Big is Coming to London! On June 13, I’m hosting a small-group, full-day workshop: IMPACT Engine Fundamentals. If you’re tired of being stuck in the task trap and ready to drive measurable business value, this is your chance. We’ll walk through the Strategy Lifecycle, explore the IMPACT Driver mindset, and give you the foundation to transform your PMO or delivery team into a strategic powerhouse. Reserve your seat now. Space running out, so don't wait! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Are your projects stalling despite seemingly clear communication?

In this episode, Laura Barnard reveals five deceptively simple questions that will transform your team’s clarity, accountability, and follow-through. These questions target the root causes of missed expectations and poor execution—often hidden in vague requests, assumptions, and unspoken blockers.

Tune in to learn how to eliminate confusion, foster honest conversations, and accelerate momentum across your team. 

What You'll Learn: 

• Why clarity in communication is often overestimated
• 5 targeted questions to diagnose accountability breakdowns 
• A framework to uncover hidden blockers
• Ways to fast-track decision-making and eliminate delays 

👉 Press play to start asking the questions that drive results. 

P.S. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book — it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free — grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next. 

P.P.S. I’m bringing the IMPACT Engine to London on June 13 for an exclusive, full-day workshop. If you're ready to move from tactical to truly strategic, this is your moment. There are only a few seats left — reserve yours here. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Saying "no" can be one of the most IMPACTful leadership tools you can use.  

Setting strategic boundaries is an often-overlooked professional skill. This practice can help you protect focus, drive real results, and model prioritization excellence for your team and stakeholders. 

Learn how mastering "yes," "yes, and," and "no" can accelerate your strategy delivery and boost your organizational value. 

Key Discussion Points: 

• Why leadership isn't just about what you agree to do. 
• How to use language to avoid overcommitting. 
• The cost of not publishing a "Not Doing List." 
• Three-step framework to organize priorities. 
• Real-world examples of strategic prioritization in action. 

👉 Press play to start learning when and how to say no. 

P.S. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club is so much more than reading a book — it's a movement. Join us for live calls, deep conversations, and a behind-the-scenes look at how to create real change with The IMPACT Engine. It’s completely free — grab your seat now and don’t miss what’s next. 

P.P.S. I’m bringing the IMPACT Engine to London on June 13 for an exclusive, full-day workshop. If you're ready to move from tactical to truly strategic, this is your moment. Seats are limited and going fast — reserve yours here. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

In this episode, I'm revealing the fatal mistake many PMO and transformation leaders make: pitching big changes before earning stakeholder trust. Together, let’s climb the "know, like, trust" ladder and guide your stakeholders through credibility, connection, and consistency to win lasting buy-in.

Learn how to avoid fueling resistance and instead create powerful pull toward your ideas.

What You'll Learn:

• Why big proposals often fail without trust
• How to build credibility with quick wins
• The "value ladder" approach for PMO success
• How to move from "know, like, trust" to "try, buy, repeat, refer"

👉 Press play to start building stakeholder trust for real transformation.

P.S. 🎉 International PMO Day is almost here — this Tuesday, May 13! 🎉

That’s right… it’s time to celebrate YOU and all the hard work PMOs do to drive IMPACT.

Start planning your PMO party now! Whether it’s a team lunch, a virtual toast, or just a moment to treat yourself (hello, coffee break!), take time to recognize the powerhouse that is your PMO. Or better yet, team up with other PMOs in your organization and turn it into a full-on celebration!

We're cooking up something special behind the scenes, so keep an eye on the newsletter—details coming soon!

Let the countdown to PMO greatness begin... 🥳

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Ways of Working

When deadlines slip, you need more than a replan—you need a playbook. In this episode, Laura Barnard and project recovery expert Mark Woeppel share practical strategies to stop losing time, identify bottlenecks, rebuild stakeholder trust, and accelerate results using Visual Project Management techniques.

Key Takeaways:

• Early warning signs your project is in trouble
• How to use Visual Project Management for faster recovery
• Breaking bottlenecks and regaining momentum
• Rebuilding credibility with stakeholders

👉 Press play to learn how you can turn late projects into big wins.

Connect with Mark:

Follow Mark on LinkedIn

Check out his website

P.S. 🎉 International PMO Day is almost here — Tuesday, May 13! 🎉

That’s right… it’s time to celebrate YOU and all the hard work PMOs do to drive IMPACT.

Start planning your PMO party now! Whether it’s a team lunch, a virtual toast, or just a moment to treat yourself (hello, coffee break!), take time to recognize the powerhouse that is your PMO. Or better yet, team up with other PMOs in your organization and turn it into a full-on celebration!

We're cooking up something special behind the scenes, so keep an eye on the newsletter—details coming soon!

Let the countdown to PMO greatness begin... 🥳

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills



Are your training programs truly moving the needle? 

In this episode, I’m revealing why traditional training fails and how you can build lasting capability instead. If you’re leading a PMO, driving business transformation, or building project delivery excellence, this episode is your blueprint for real, measurable IMPACT. 

We’ll explore: 

• Why knowledge alone isn’t enough 
• The dangers of cram-and-exam bootcamps 
• How to break bad habits and instill new ones 
• What makes immersive learning experiences effective 
• How to build a culture of measuring what truly matters 

Stop settling for passive training that doesn’t deliver results. 

👉 Press play to start building real capability that drives transformation. 

P.S. 🎉 International PMO Day is almost here — Tuesday, May 13! 🎉 

That’s right… it’s time to celebrate YOU and all the hard work PMOs do to drive IMPACT. 

Start planning your PMO party now! Whether it’s a team lunch, a virtual toast, or just a moment to treat yourself (hello, coffee break!), take time to recognize the powerhouse that is your PMO. Or better yet, team up with other PMOs in your organization and turn it into a full-on celebration! 

We're cooking up something special behind the scenes, so keep an eye on the newsletter—details coming soon! 

Let the countdown to PMO greatness begin... 🥳

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen



Are you carrying the burden of every project challenge and organizational misstep? 

This episode challenges project leaders and PMO professionals to stop owning all the pain—and start translating it into executive priorities. Learn how to shift from outputs to outcomes and use our five-step IMPACT Communication Framework to finally get leadership buy-in, accelerate decision-making, and unlock real business value. 

Key Topics Covered: 

• Why outputs ≠ outcomes—and how to stop confusing the two 
• How to make your pain their pain using strategic language 
• Five-step IMPACT Communication Framework in action 
• The danger of wearing project chaos as a badge of honor 
• Moving from being blamed to being a business partner 

👉 Press play to stop solving the wrong problems and start making a strategic IMPACT today. 

P.S. 🚨 You’re Invited to Something Bigger Than Just a Book Club… 

The IMPACT Insiders Book Club launches April 22 — and it’s not just about reading a book. It’s about stepping into a movement. 

Together, we’re unpacking The IMPACT Engine and activating what it means to be a true changemaker. This isn’t surface-level stuff — this is about real transformation, real connection, and real IMPACT. 

✅ Live sessions + recordings 

✅ Behind-the-scenes insights I’ve never shared publicly 

✅ A community of driven, purpose-fueled leaders just like you 

It’s 100% free to join — but the movement kicks off soon. 

➡️ Reserve your spot now and don’t miss the very first call. 

This is your calling. Are you in? 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

One of the most frustrating realities of organizational life: delayed decision-making. Whether it's analysis paralysis, decision fatigue, or simply poor communication, I’m revealing the common reasons why executive decisions stall—and what YOU can do to drive clarity, urgency, and results.

Learn how to communicate with purpose, frame decisions around business IMPACT, and reduce cognitive load for your leaders. If you're tired of waiting weeks for a simple yes or no, this one’s for you.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why information overload creates decision paralysis
• How to present the right information in the right way
• How to align every communication to strategy and business outcomes
• Tips to reduce decision fatigue and accelerate outcomes
• How to coach your stakeholders to make better decisions, faster

👉 Press play to start turning indecision into IMPACT.

P.S. The IMPACT Insiders Book Club kicks off on April 22, and we’re diving into The IMPACT Engine together—turning powerful ideas into practical action to help you accelerate strategy delivery now. It’s free to join, and you’ll get live access plus recordings, exclusive insights I’m only sharing with Insiders, and a community of changemakers. Don’t miss the first session—sign up for FREE now!

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

Most PMOs fail—not because they aren’t doing enough, but because they aren’t doing the right things. In this episode, Stephen Jenner shares why traditional PMO approaches fall short and how to shift from process obsession to real business outcomes. 

Key Takeaways: 

✔️ Why most PMOs shut down within 18-24 months 

✔️ How to engage executives in better decision-making 

✔️ The importance of transparency in Portfolio Management 

✔️ Why project benefits must align with strategic objectives 

👉 Press play to learn how you can stop managing process and start driving IMPACT. 

Connect with Stephen: 

Follow on LinkedIn 

Connect via email 

P.S. Too many organizations deliver projects without driving real business value. On April 8th at 12 PM EST, I’ll be teaming up with Sciforma to uncover the hidden gaps that derail strategy execution—and show you how to bridge the divide between leadership vision and real results. 🔥 Save your spot for free now! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

AI is the shiny new thing that has everyone buzzing. But are we actually solving real problems—or just chasing the hype? Too many companies are diving into AI without considering data readiness, decision-making processes, and real business IMPACT. 

In this episode, Tim Goodman from Sciforma joins me to explore how AI is transforming portfolio and project management, and what organizations need to do to prepare for AI-driven decision-making. 

💡 Key Takeaways: 

🔍 The AI Adoption Problem – What happens when companies are implementing AI without fixing their data first 

📊 AI’s Role in Decision-Making – How AI can support but not replace human leadership 

🚀 How PMO Leaders Can Prepare – Steps to ensure your organization is data-ready before adopting AI 

⚡ Why Strategy & AI Must Align – How AI-driven insights can accelerate business IMPACT 

👉 Press play to learn how you can adopt AI-driven project management into your own practices.

Connect with Tim:

Follow on LinkedIn 

Learn more about Sciforma

P.S. Too many organizations deliver projects without driving real business value. On April 8th at 12 PM EST, I’ll be teaming up with Sciforma to uncover the hidden gaps that derail strategy execution—and show you how to bridge the divide between leadership vision and real results. 🔥 Save your spot for free now!  

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Ways of Working

Reading The IMPACT Engine is just the first step—real IMPACT happens when you apply what you’ve learned. That’s why we’re launching the IMPACT Insiders Book Club, a free, interactive experience where we’ll break down key takeaways, explore real-world applications, and engage in discussions designed to help you implement these strategies effectively. 

Each session will guide you through key concepts, provide real-world insights, and help you put these lessons into action. 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 

✔️ How the IMPACT Insiders Book Club can help you apply The IMPACT Engine strategies 

✔️ The key benefits of structured discussions, actionable insights, and guided learning 

✔️ Why reading isn’t enough—engagement and implementation create real IMPACT 

👉 Press play and let’s make an IMPACT together! 

🔗 Join the IMPACT Insiders Book Club for FREE! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Ways of Working

For decades, project management has relied on structured methodologies like Agile and Waterfall. But as business evolves, are these methods keeping up? In this episode, I’m working with Jasmine O'Reilly to challenge the status quo and explore whether rigid processes are limiting innovation rather than enabling success. 

We discuss: 

✅ Why our industry resists innovation and what needs to change 

✅ How structure and flexibility can coexist in modern project management 

✅ The shift from process-driven to people-driven approaches 

✅ How project managers can become IMPACT-driven investment managers 

🚀 Are your projects delivering real business value? Tune in to learn how to modernize your approach and drive meaningful IMPACT. 

Connect with Jasmine: 

Follow on YouTube 

Connect on LinkedIn 

P.S. Stop the chaos—start leading with confidence! The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you expert coaching, hands-on support, and the blueprint to deliver real business value. Ready to accelerate your success? Join us here! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills



Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back—it’s about leading with confidence, even under pressure. In this episode, I’m joined by Annmarie Curley to learn about the science of stress, the heart-brain connection, and practical strategies to help you stay calm, focused, and in control. 

What You’ll Learn: 

✅ How emotional intelligence fuels leadership success 

✅ A simple yet powerful breathing technique to reset stress 

✅ Why resilience is a game-changer for high-IMPACT leaders 

Join us as Annmarie Curley shares actionable insights to help you lead with clarity, energy, and purpose—no matter what challenges come your way. 

Connect with Annmarie: 

Follow on LinkedIn 

Learn more about Newgrange IT Consulting 

P.S. Stop the chaos—start leading with confidence! The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you expert coaching, hands-on support, and the blueprint to deliver real business value. Ready to accelerate your success? Join us here! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Ways of Working

Agile and PMOs—two worlds that many believe can’t coexist. But the truth is, they must. In this episode, Fatimah Abbouchi joins us to break down the biggest mistakes PMOs make when trying to integrate Agile and governance, and what to do instead. 

We’ll uncover: 

✅ Why aligning your PMO too closely with project delivery methods leads to instability 

✅ How rigid processes slow down decision-making instead of enabling it 

✅ The real role of governance in creating agility at scale 

This conversation is for you if your PMO is struggling to stay relevant in an Agile-driven organization or you need to know how to not only coexist, but accelerate IMPACT together.  

Get in touch with Fatimah: 

Connect on LinkedIn   

Follow Fatimah on YouTube 

Check out her website 

P.S. Stop the chaos—start leading with confidence! The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you expert coaching, hands-on support, and the blueprint to deliver real business value. Ready to accelerate your success? Join us here! 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

Executives don’t manage projects day-to-day, but they live with the results. What if the key to successful strategy execution isn’t just delivery—but how projects are set up from the start? 

Most project failures don’t happen during execution—they happen before projects even start. If executives don’t define outcomes, benefits, and value upfront, even the most well-managed project can miss the mark. 

In this episode, Alexandra Chapman joins us to share how PMOs can shift from order-takers to Strategy Navigators and ensure projects are set up for success from day one. 

Key Takeaways: 

✅ Why most projects fail before they even start 

✅ The critical questions executives must ask before approving a project 

✅ Why “on time, on budget” isn’t enough to define success 

👉 Press play to transform your PMO into a true strategy driver. 

Connect with Alexandra Chapman

Follow Alexandra on LinkedIn

Visit Totally Optimized Projects

P.S. Stop the chaos—start leading with confidence! The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you expert coaching, hands-on support, and the blueprint to deliver real business value. Ready to accelerate your success? Join us here!

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES

TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN

PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

AI is no longer a distant future—it’s here, and it’s reshaping how organizations deliver strategy. Some leaders are resisting the change, while others are using AI to gain a competitive edge. The question is: Which side will you be on?

In this week’s episode, Scott Ambler and I explore:

🎯 The real IMPACT of AI on white-collar jobs

💡 The hidden risks of AI adoption most leaders overlook

🚀 How PMO leaders can stay ahead and lead AI-driven transformation

Don’t wait for AI to reshape your role—take charge now.

P.S. Stop the chaos—start leading with confidence! The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you expert coaching, hands-on support, and the blueprint to deliver real business value. Ready to accelerate your success? Join us here!

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

Your technical skills got you here—but your mindset will determine your success. 🚀  

This week on the PMO Strategies Podcast, I welcome Susanne Madsen, an executive coach and leadership expert, to uncover how project leaders can strengthen resilience, manage emotions, and thrive under pressure.  

Key Takeaways:  

✅ How above the line vs. below the line thinking IMPACTs leadership  

✅ Proven breathwork techniques to regulate emotions and reduce stress  

✅ The role of psychological safety in fostering high-performing teams  

Great leaders don’t avoid challenges—they master their mindset to navigate them with confidence.  

👉 Listen to the full episode now to discover how to strengthen your resilience and lead with confidence. 

P.S. Stop the chaos—start leading with confidence! The IMPACT Accelerator Mastermind gives you expert coaching, hands-on support, and the blueprint to deliver real business value. Ready to accelerate your success? Join us here!

Connect with Susanne: 

Follow Susanne on LinkedIn 

Get How to Do the Inner Work on Amazon 

Grab The Power of Project Leadership on Amazon 

Visit Susanne’s Website 

Download Free Leadership Resources 

Subscribe to Susanne’s YouTube Channel 

Connect on LinkedIn 

Follow on TikTok 

Follow on X / Twitter 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

GET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS