Shows
Stellar Work#50 Sander Hoogendoorn on what it takes to run tech teams at iBoodSummaryIn this episode, Benjamin interviews Stuart Munton, CIO at AND Digital, discussing the transformative impact of AI on the consulting industry and software development. They explore how generative AI is reshaping business models, the importance of adapting to new technologies, and the challenges organizations face in integrating AI into their workflows. Stuart shares insights from his experience at AND Digital, including case studies and the evolving role of middle management in an AI-driven world. The conversation emphasizes the need for a shared context in AI integration and the future of agile methodologies in product development.
2026-01-2653 min
Stellar Work#49 Stuart Munton on the adoption of AIIn this episode, Benjamin interviews Stuart Munton, CIO at AND Digital, discussing the transformative impact of AI on the consulting industry and software development. They explore how generative AI is reshaping business models, the importance of adapting to new technologies, and the challenges organizations face in integrating AI into their workflows. Stuart shares insights from his experience at AND Digital, including case studies and the evolving role of middle management in an AI-driven world. The conversation emphasizes the need for a shared context in AI integration and the future of agile methodologies in product development.
2026-01-1250 min
Stellar Work#48 Darja Smite on the evolution of remote workIn this conversation, Benjamin and Darja Smite explore the evolution of remote and hybrid work over the past five years, particularly in light of the pandemic. They discuss cultural differences in work practices, the impact of remote work on team dynamics and productivity, and the challenges of onboarding in a fully remote environment. The conversation also touches on the importance of social connections, the changing nature of meetings, and strategies for effective collaboration in a hybrid work setting. Darja shares insights from her research, highlighting the need for companies to adapt their policies to fit their unique cultures and...
2025-12-2949 min
Stellar Work#47 Magnus Östberg on The Heartbeat of Automotive InnovationThis episode features Magnus Östberg, Chief Software Officer at Mercedes-Benz, discussing how the company is transforming its approach to software and innovation. Magnus explains the development of MB.OS, their custom software platform, and how Mercedes is syncing hardware and software teams with agile methods like the ‘heartbeat.’ The conversation covers balancing tradition with fast-paced delivery, embracing open source and standards, and what’s ahead for software-defined vehicles. Listeners get practical insights on leading digital transformation and the future of connected mobility.Magnus Östberg:Magnus assumes overall responsibility for the MB.OS vehicle...
2025-12-1533 min
Stellar Work#46 Dr. Karen Eilers and Christiaan Verwjis on researching team effectivenessThis episode dives into the substance behind “agile mindset,” stripping away jargon to uncover what really makes teams effective in complex, fast-moving environments. Karen and Christiaan share findings from their ongoing research, revealing four shared dimensions of agility within teams. Listeners gain insight into how mindsets shift — both individually and collectively — and why this matters for real-world performance and job satisfaction. The conversation highlights the need for psychological safety, real learning environments, and the limitations of relying solely on rituals or new tools. The research is ongoing, with opportunities for the community to take part and help create actionable, scientif...
2025-12-0137 min
Stellar Work#45 Marcelo Lopez on critical thinking in businessSummaryThis episode features a conversation between Marcelo Lopez and Benjamin, exploring themes of professional growth, the impact of AI, and the importance of critical thinking. Marcelo shares his journey as a Certified Scrum Trainer and his experiences in the tech industry, emphasizing the value of giving back and helping others. The discussion delves into the challenges of maintaining critical thinking in a fast-paced, technology-driven world, and the potential pitfalls of over-reliance on AI without human oversight. The episode concludes with a light-hearted exchange about personal hobbies and the importance of taking breaks to refresh one's mind.
2025-11-171h 14
Stellar Work#44 Philipp Guth - Transforming R&D at RittalIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews Philipp Guth, the CTO of Rittal, about the company's transformation journey. Rittal, a leader in electrical enclosures and cooling solutions, is evolving from a product-centric to a solution-oriented company. Philipp discusses the need for transformation in response to increasing complexity in customer requirements and competition. He outlines his approach to change, emphasizing the importance of awareness, pilot teams, and adapting agile methods in hardware development. The conversation also touches on managing resistance, learning from failures, and drawing inspiration from innovative companies like SpaceX.
2025-11-0342 min
Stellar Work#43 Henrik Kniberg - Agentifying Software DevelopmentSummaryIn this episode Henrik shares his journey from software development to AI, discussing the evolution of coding practices and the impact of AI on the software industry. He delves into the Spotify model, the importance of Agile methodologies, and how AI is transforming coding and software development. Henrik also addresses hiring practices in the age of AI, the role of junior developers, and the significance of architectural decisions in software projects. He concludes with insights on future trends in AI-assisted coding and how developers can adapt to these changes.
2025-10-0645 min
Stellar Work#42 Philipp Raasch - The AutopreneurIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews Philipp Raasch, a prominent automotive newsletter podcaster. They discuss the current transformations in the automotive industry, including the shift from combustion engines to electric vehicles, the challenges faced by legacy automakers, and the dynamics of cost-cutting in a competitive market. Philipp shares insights on regional trends in the German automotive market and offers a future outlook on the industry's evolution.Philipp Raasch:The automotive industry is undergoing its biggest transformation in history – and Philipp Raasch is right at the center of it....
2025-09-2234 min
🧠 _#40 Timm Richter - Managing The Paradox Podcast: Stellar WorkEpisode: #40 Timm Richter - Managing The ParadoxPub date: 2025-08-24Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin and Timm delve into the complexities of systemic paradox management within organizations. Timm shares insights from his experiences and his book, discussing how paradoxes are inherent in decision-making processes and how organizations can better manage these challenges. The conversation explores the role of context, the impact of AI on decision-making, and practical strategies for leaders to na...
2025-09-1438 min
Stellar Work#41 Gitte Klitgaard - Beyond the spreadsheet- Humanizing Large OrganizationsIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Gitte Klitgaard, an agile coach, discusses the importance of human behavior in organizations, the role of emotional intelligence in professionalism, and the challenges managers face in creating safe and engaging work environments. She emphasizes the need for diversity in teams, the impact of leadership on company culture, and the significance of measuring performance beyond just numbers. Gitte also explores the balance between short-term and long-term business strategies and the necessity of building strong relationships and communication within teams.Gitte Klitgaard:Gitte Klitgaard is an...
2025-09-0848 min
Stellar Work#40 Timm Richter - Managing The ParadoxIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin and Timm delve into the complexities of systemic paradox management within organizations. Timm shares insights from his experiences and his book, discussing how paradoxes are inherent in decision-making processes and how organizations can better manage these challenges. The conversation explores the role of context, the impact of AI on decision-making, and practical strategies for leaders to navigate change and stability effectively. Timm emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing paradoxes to foster a more resilient organizational culture.Timm Richter:Timm Richter, graduate mathematician, MBA from the MIT Sloan School of...
2025-08-2538 min
Stellar Work#39 Eva PenzeyMoog on designing safe productsDescriptionIn this episode of the Stellar World Podcast, Benjamin interviews Eva PenzeyMoog, author of 'Design for Safety'. They discuss the various ways technology can be weaponized for interpersonal harm, particularly in the context of domestic violence and abuse. Eva shares insights on how tech can be misused in relationships, the importance of designing products with safety in mind, and the need for customization to empower users. They also touch on the challenges of raising tech-literate children in a digital age, the ethics of surveillance technology, and the role of activism in combating these issues....
2025-08-1141 min
Stellar Work#38 Stefan Roock - Scrum Guide Expansion PackDescriptionIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin and Stefan Roock discuss the recently published Scrum Guide Expansion Pack. They explore its key features, challenges, and the implications of AI in Scrum practices. The conversation delves into the complexity of the expansion pack, the evolving role of stakeholders, and the future of AI in agile methodologies. Stefan shares his insights on the need for a deeper understanding of Scrum and the importance of adapting practices to fit specific contexts.-> Scrum Guide Expansion Pack: https://scrumexpansion.org/Stefan Roock:...
2025-07-2837 min
Stellar Work#37 Alisa Stolze - 20 Habits for Leading TeamsIn this episode of the Stellarwork Podcast, Benjamin interviews Alisa Stolze, a Scrum at Scale trainer and author, discussing practical leadership tips, the importance of habits in team dynamics, and effective time management strategies. Alisa emphasizes the need for transparency in teams and how small changes can lead to significant improvements in productivity and team morale.Alisa Stolze:Alisa Stolze is the first German certified Scrum@Scale, Registered Scrum by Scrum Inc., and eduScrum trainer in Germany. She works within the trainer network Scrum Events, at Common Sense Team GmbH, and for Scrum Inc., the...
2025-07-1446 min
Stellar Work#36 Nicolas Brown - Real World AgilityIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, host Benjamin and agility consultant Nick Brown discuss the practical application of agile methodologies in real-world contexts. They explore the importance of understanding organizational dynamics, the significance of context in agile practices, and the challenges faced by agile coaches. Nick shares insights from his experiences, emphasizing the need for effective measurement of success, the role of flow metrics, and the necessity of feedback loops in agile transformations. The conversation also touches on the future of agile coaching and offers advice for aspiring practitioners in the field.Nicolas Brown:
2025-06-3041 min
Stellar Work#35 Andrei Savine on agentifying Consulting and ManagementIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews Andrei Savine, a transformation leader with over 20 years of experience. They discuss the challenges of digital transformations, the importance of data in decision-making, and how AI can enhance management practices. Andrei shares insights on his platform, CapabiliSense, which aims to streamline transformation processes by analyzing organizational documents and providing evidence-based assessments. The conversation also touches on the cultural shifts needed for successful transformations and the future of AI in organizational settings.Andrei SavineWith over two decades of hands-on experience leading transformation...
2025-06-1650 min
Stellar Work#34 Christian Piechnick - Building Tech Companies in EuropeIn this episode, Christian Pichnick, co-founder and CEO of Wandelbots, discusses the future of robotics and automation, the challenges and opportunities for tech startups in Europe, and the impact of AI on manufacturing. He emphasizes the need for a shift in mindset towards innovation and the importance of having a clear vision for the future. The conversation also touches on the macroeconomic changes affecting the tech ecosystem and strategies for founding successful companies in Europe.Christian PiechnickChristian Piechnick is the CEO and co-founder of Wandelbots, a Dresden-based robotics startup revolutionizing industrial...
2025-06-0238 min
Stellar Work#33 Holger Heinze - The Drama Free WorkplaceIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews Holger Heinze, a management consultant and author of 'Drama Free Workplace.' They explore how to create a less stressful and more empowering work environment by understanding the drama triangle, the connection between mindset and drama, and practical strategies to avoid drama in the workplace. Holger shares insights on the importance of recognizing triggers, the roles people play in drama situations, and how to shift from a victim mindset to a creator mindset. The conversation also delves into the cultural implications of drama in organizations and the need for...
2025-05-1956 min
VeränderungsstabilEp. 85: Organizational Analytics - Jäger der verlorenen Wertschöpfung Forensik mit dem Ineffizienz Detektiv (Talk mit Benjamin Igna)In dieser neuen Folge von „Veränderungsstabil“ habe ich einen echten Spezialisten im Gespräch: Benjamin Igna, Organisationsdetektiv und Berater bei IT Agile.Benjamin unterstützt Unternehmen dabei, verborgene Ineffizienzen und versteckte Wertverluste aufzuspüren. Gemeinsam gehen wir auf Spurensuche: Wie Benjamin systematisch Wertströme verfolgt, Mitarbeitende interviewt, Prozessdaten analysiert und dabei Übergabepunkte identifiziert, an denen Arbeit versandet oder stockt.Wir reden darüber, warum Organisationen manchmal schneller werden, wenn sie bestimmte Abteilungen bewusst verlangsamen, und warum gut gemeinte Konzepte oft ungewollt zu Staus im System führen.Außerdem erfahrt ihr:Wie Benjamin...
2025-05-1249 min
Stellar Work#32 Solo - 1 Year Stellar Work PodcastIn this solo episode, Benjamin reflects on the past year of the Stellar Work podcast, discussing key insights and lessons learned about organizational transformation. He emphasizes the importance of leadership commitment, effective strategies, and understanding organizational dynamics to drive successful change. Benjamin also shares his journey of podcasting, highlighting the learning experiences and connections made along the way.Stellar Work:Check out www.stellarwork.com for more information about how evolutionary agile transformations workMake sure to follow us on your podcast player 🔔 as well as on LinkedIn to never miss out on more content: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stellarwork/...
2025-05-0519 min
Stellar Work#31 Tom Soderstrom II - Bringing NASA JPL up to speedIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews Tom Soderstrom, former CTO at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. They discuss the intricacies of working at NASA, the creative processes behind space missions, the search for extraterrestrial life, and the differences between government and commercial space industries. Tom shares insights on fostering a culture of innovation, the importance of data visualization, and the integration of cybersecurity in space missions. He also provides valuable advice for aspiring professionals in the space industry, emphasizing the importance of passion and hands-on experience.Tom Soderstrom Since June 2023, Tom Soderstrom s...
2025-04-2147 min
Stellar Work#30 Tom Soderstrom Tech Transformation Learnings from NASA JPL and AWSIn this episode, Tom Soderstrom shares insights from his extensive experience in technology transformation at NASA and AWS. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on the mission, making informed decisions, and fostering a culture of experimentation. Tom discusses the critical role of AI and data in driving business success and highlights the need for collaboration between IT and business units. He concludes with practical advice for leaders navigating organizational change, stressing the importance of speed and adaptability.Tom Soderstrom Since June 2023, Tom Soderstrom serves as an Enterprise Strategist helping and coaching executive customers with their t...
2025-04-0752 min
Stellar Work#29 Leah Tharin - Product Led Growth and SalesIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews Leah Tharin, an expert in product-led growth. They discuss the differences between product-led and sales-led growth, the importance of understanding customer needs, and the challenges of transitioning from one model to another. Leah shares insights on cultural differences in sales approaches, metrics for measuring growth, and valuable resources for learning more about product growth strategies.Leah TharinLeah Tharin is an experienced product leader and serial entrepreneur with over two decades in tech and four startups of her own. She currently serves as the interim...
2025-03-2451 min
Stellar Work#28 Markus Andrezak - Product -Management and -StrategyIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews Markus Andrezak, a product management expert, discussing the intricacies of product management and strategy. They explore Markus's career journey, the importance of a clear business model, the evolution of tech companies in Europe, and the challenges faced by product managers. The conversation delves into the role of product managers in different contexts, the significance of storytelling, and the strategic frameworks that guide product management. Markus emphasizes the need for education, experience, and effective communication in navigating the complexities of product management.Markus AndrezakMarkus Andrezak...
2025-03-1052 min
Stellar Work#27 Al Shalloway - Future of Agile Training and CoachingIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews Al Shalloway, a prominent figure in the Agile community. They discuss Al's extensive journey in Agile, the challenges of training and education in the field, and the importance of integrating coaching with Agile practices. Al emphasizes the need for a new type of training that is affordable and ongoing, addressing the capability gap in Agile. The conversation also touches on the flaws in Agile foundations, the impact of AI on Agile roles, and the necessity of systems thinking in the Agile framework. Al shares valuable insights on continuous learning...
2025-02-2452 min
Stellar Work#26 Anja Hendel - Transforming the Automotive IndustryIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews Anja Hendel, a seasoned expert in digital transformation within the automotive industry. Anja shares her journey from studying computer science to leading digital initiatives at major companies like Porsche and Volkswagen. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by hardware-focused organizations in adapting to software-driven models, the importance of organizational structure in successful transformations, and the future of mobility in an era of autonomous driving. Anja emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in how companies evaluate success and adapt to changing market demands.Anja Hendel
2025-02-1748 min🧠 _#25 Niels Pfläging - Organize for Complexity Podcast: Stellar WorkEpisode: #25 Niels Pfläging - Organize for ComplexityPub date: 2025-02-10Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationIn this episode, Benjamin engages with Niels Pfläging, a thought leader in management and organizational transformation. They discuss the challenges of conventional management practices, the importance of understanding complexity in organizational problems, and the role of consultants in facilitating change. Niels emphasizes the need for effective change management strategies and the significance of learning from successful organizations. The conversation highlights the importance of prin...
2025-02-1059 min
Stellar Work#25 Niels Pfläging - Organize for ComplexityIn this episode, Benjamin engages with Niels Pfläging, a thought leader in management and organizational transformation. They discuss the challenges of conventional management practices, the importance of understanding complexity in organizational problems, and the role of consultants in facilitating change. Niels emphasizes the need for effective change management strategies and the significance of learning from successful organizations. The conversation highlights the importance of principles over practices in achieving meaningful transformation.Niels PflägingNiels Pflaeging is founder of the BetaCodex Network, and partner/associate at Red42, based in Wiesbaden (Germany). He is an acclaimed in...
2025-02-1059 min
Stellar Work#24 Adriana & Eduardo - Helping Law Firms through KanbanIn this episode, Benjamin interviews Adriana and Eduardo, experts in Kanban and agile methodologies, focusing on their application in the legal industry in Brazil. They discuss the challenges faced by law firms, the need for agile practices, and how Kanban can transform traditional legal workflows. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the legal context, the cultural barriers to change, and practical steps for implementation. Adriana and Eduardo also share insights on measuring success and provide actionable tips for law firms looking to adopt agile methodologies.Adriana da Costa Salibahttps://www.linkedin.com/in...
2025-02-0340 min
Stellar Work#23 Damian Boeselager - Fixing the EU!In this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews Damian Boeselager, a member of the European Parliament and co-founder of Volt, a pan-European political party. They discuss the importance of progressive politics in Europe, the challenges posed by right-wing populism, and the need for a unified European approach to economic competitiveness and innovation. Damian emphasizes the role of regulation in fostering innovation, the cultural differences in investment perspectives, and the necessity for political engagement among citizens to shape the future of Europe.Damian BoeselagerDamian Boeselager is best known for his pioneering political career...
2025-01-2046 min
Stellar Work#18 Luke Hohmann - Software Profit Streams™In this episode, Benjamin interviews Luke Hohmann, a prominent figure in the Agile product development community and author of 'Software Profit Streams™'. They discuss the critical link between value and profit, emphasizing the importance of understanding profitability within Agile practices. Luke shares insights on how Agile coaches and practitioners can contribute to a company's profitability and the necessity of defining value in order to create sustainable business models. The conversation also touches on the concept of Profit Streams™, the role of cost centers, and the significance of pricing strategies in the software industry.Luke HohmannLu...
2025-01-0657 min
Stellar Work#22 Santa and Rudolph at the Kata ConferenceIn this festive episode of the Stellar wWork Podcast, recorded live from Sweden, Benjamin and his guests discuss the future of organizational structures, the impact of AI, and the importance of visualization in decision-making. They explore the balance between autonomy and direction in the workplace, customer-centric approaches in the automotive industry, and the cultural shifts in management. The conversation emphasizes the need for feedback loops and the role of AI in enhancing human ingenuity, concluding with a call to embrace change and innovation.
Our guests:
Joe Justice:
Joe Justice is an entrepreneur and...
2024-12-2355 min
Stellar Work#17 Jurgen Appelo - The Unfix ModelIn this episode, Jurgen Appelo discusses his journey from software engineer to agile management expert, emphasizing the importance of pattern libraries over rigid frameworks in organizational development. He explains how organizations can benefit from adopting flexible patterns that allow for adaptability and innovation. Through case studies, he illustrates the successful implementation of these patterns in various companies. The conversation also explores the future of agile management in the context of AI advancements and the evolving job market for software developers.Jurgen Appelo:Jurgen helps organizations survive and thrive in the 21st century. He offers the u...
2024-12-0944 min
Stellar Work#16 Marc Sniukas - The better Strategy OSIn this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews strategy advisor Marc Sniukas, who shares insights on modern strategic planning and the Better Strategy OS framework. They discuss the challenges of traditional strategy, the importance of defining strategy in terms of challenges and ambitions, and the need for a structured approach to strategy that includes testing options and stakeholder value. Marc also provides a case study on Netflix's strategic evolution and offers advice for those new to the field of strategy.Marc Sniukas:Marc Sniukas is a leading strategy advisor helping CEOs and business...
2024-11-2542 min
Stellar Work#19 Klaus Leopold - Flight Levels Case StudyIn this episode of the Stellarwork Podcast, Klaus Leopold discusses the concept of Flight Levels, a framework designed to optimize agility across multiple teams and levels of an organization. He explains the three levels of Flight Levels—operational, coordination, and strategy—and emphasizes the importance of visualizing work and creating focus. The conversation also covers practical steps for starting small with Flight Levels, measuring success through metrics, and the importance of stakeholder engagement.Klaus Leopold:Klaus Leopold is a well-known expert in the field of Kanban, Agile, and Lean methodologies. He has made significant contributions to i...
2024-11-1151 min
Stellar Work#21 Martin Wanitschke - Wandelbots NOVAIn this conversation, Martin Wanitschke discusses his role at Wandelbots and the company's mission to democratize robotics. He explains the evolution of robot programming, the introduction of the TracePen, and the challenges faced in product development. The discussion highlights the shift towards a software-focused approach with the upcoming launch of Wandelbots Nova, a hardware-agnostic operating system for robots that aims to make robotics accessible to a wider audience. In this conversation, Martin Wanitschke discusses the innovative programming methods for robotics, the transformation of company structure at Vandalbots, and the integration of simulation technologies in automation. He emphasizes the empowerment...
2024-11-0555 min
e-movotionEin Troll namens Elon MuskWie Elon irgendwo falsch abgebogen ist
Donald Trump größter Fanboy nennt sich Elon Musk. Der ist eigentlich Unternehmer aber scheint für sich die Politik entdeckt zu haben. Mit seinen Verschwörungstheorien überschwemmt er seinen Dienst X, beschimpft anders denkende, regt seine Follower an doch mal die Vizepräsidentin umzubringen oder verhält sich auf der Bühne einfach nur peinlich. Für viele, die ihn bisher als Visionär und Ausnahmeunternehmer gefeiert haben ist das ein ernsthaftes Problem. Wie soll man mit diesen beiden Seiten von Elon Musk umgehen und was halten wir davon? Christoph Krachten kennt Elon Musk...
2024-11-0542 min
Stellar Work#20 Steffen Stammel - Dynamic Shared Ownership at BayerDisclaimer: The views and opinions shared by Steffen are based on his personal reflections and experiences. He is not representing the company's stance or policies.In this episode of the Stellar Work Podcast, Benjamin interviews Steffen Stammel, Global IT Strategy Director at Bayer, who shares his personal reflections on the company’s ongoing transformation amidst various challenges. They explore the impact of leadership changes, the introduction of a dynamic shared ownership model, and the importance of employee well-being during this transition. Steffen offers insights into the strategies being implemented to foster innovation and agility within the organization, wh...
2024-11-0450 mine-movotionDer Absturz: Lilium ist insolventKeine Unterstützung vom Staat!
Lilium wollte buchstäblich hoch hinaus und ist jetzt gnadenlos abgestürzt. Tja, so ist das leider manchmal, wenn man sich mit der Schwerkraft anlegt. Benjamin Igna ist Unternehmensberater und sieht die Bruchlandung, sprich Insolvenz , mit einem lachenden und einem weinenden Auge. Schon seit Jahren beschäftigt er sich mit der Firma und ihn wundert es nicht, dass der Bund die Unterstützung für das Unternehmen verweigert hat. Jérôme hadert unterdessen mit der Entscheidung. Können wir nicht einmal ein bisschen Risiko gehen und solch ein Unternehmen stützen, dass bereits viele Inte...
2024-10-2933 min
Stellar Work#15 Rijon Erickson - Riffing with RijonIn this conversation, Benjamin and Rijon "Ryan" Erickson explore a variety of themes ranging from personal experiences and reflections on life to discussions about vacations, childhood memories, and aspirations for the future. They delve into the influence of parents on their lives and the importance of work-life balance, while also touching on the significance of giving back to the community.Rijon Erickson:Rijon “Ryan” Erickson is a musician, innovator, and corporate leader with a unique approach to work and leadership. With a background in jazz improvisation, Ryan blends his musical philosophy with corporate experience, advocating for...
2024-10-281h 00
Stellar Work#14 Dimitar Bakardzhiev - Measuring the Knowledge GapIn this conversation, Dimitar Bakardzhiev discusses his extensive experience in software development and the concept of knowledge work. He introduces KEDEHub, a tool designed to bridge knowledge gaps in software development teams. The discussion covers the importance of understanding knowledge work, the state of flow, and how to measure and manage knowledge gaps within organizations. Dimitar emphasizes the balance between routine tasks and innovation, and the need for a knowledge-centric perspective in improving efficiency and productivity in the workplace.Dimitar Bakardzhiev:Dimitar Bakardzhiev has led teams and companies, developed software products and managed numerous successful...
2024-10-1447 min
Stellar Work#13 Simon Wardley - Wardley MappingIn this episode, host Benjamin welcomes Simon Wardley, the creator of Wardley Mapping, to discuss his innovative framework for understanding competitive landscapes. Simon shares the story behind Wardley Mapping, explaining how it started as a personal tool and evolved into a widely used method for strategy development. He also touches on his background in building companies, working in open source, and even his personal life.Simon Wardley:Explorer of uncharted spaces. Twice voted in the UKTech50, Judge in Nesta's Open Banking and Netflix's Open Source competitions, Co-Chair of OSCON Europe, Cloud Camp and Map Camp...
2024-09-3044 min
Stellar Work#12 Mark Poppenborg - Future LeadershipBenjamin Igna and Mark Poppenborg, founder of Intrinsify, discuss the need for a better world of work and the challenges faced in achieving it. Mark highlights the importance of understanding the root cause of problems within companies and the need for external references to drive change. He also emphasizes the value of theories over frameworks and the need to focus on adapting to a changing environment. Mark also discusses the importance of understanding the backstage of a company and the informal structures that drive value creation. The solutions to problems are often found within the company and its employees...
2024-09-161h 05
Stellar Work#11 Ivett Ördog - Lean PokerIn this episode, Ivett shared her journey of bringing continuous deployment practices to engineering teams and how she developed Lean Poker as a workshop to practice CD. Lean Poker is a game where participants develop poker-playing bots and deploy them continuously to compete against each other. Ivett emphasized the importance of immediate feedback and the mindset of continuous learning in software development. She also discussed the challenges of implementing continuous deployment in organizations and the need for proper testing, monitoring, and release processes. Ivett highlighted that Lean Poker can be applied in various agile frameworks and that continuous delivery...
2024-09-0244 min
Stellar Work#10 David Anderson - The Future is KanbanIn this conversation, Benjamin and David Anderson discuss the evolution of agile and the principles of Kanban. David shares his background and how he got involved in the Agile movement. He explains that Kanban is an evolutionary approach to achieving agility, focusing on operational and management practices. He emphasizes the importance of starting with the basics and evolving from there, rather than implementing prescriptive frameworks. David also discusses the challenges of scaling agile practices in organizations and the need for an explicit approach to dealing with resistance.David Anderson:Anderson studied electronics and computer science...
2024-08-191h 13
Stellar Work#9 Mike Lyons - Fixing the Scrum Master CrisisIn this conversation, Benjamin and Mike discuss the current state of the agile community, particularly the layoffs and job market for Scrum Masters and Agile Coaches. They emphasize the importance of understanding project management and how it relates to agile ways of working. Mike suggests that Scrum Masters should focus on showing value by increasing top-line revenue and decreasing bottom-line costs. They also discuss the need for context-specific approaches to agile, depending on the size and industry of the organization.Mike Lyons:With three decades of hands-on experience, Mike completed 16 agile certifications, and having trained...
2024-08-0545 min
Stellar Work#8 Sophie Seiwald Hojer & Matthias Patzak - All Hands on TechThe conversation Sophie, Matthias and Benjamin discuss the the need for a pragmatic approach to evolve, and the importance of understanding the specific pain points in an organization. They also discuss the role of methodologies and frameworks in driving change and the need to focus on value creation rather than just process execution. They highlight the importance of understanding the purpose behind rituals and meetings and the need to adapt them to the organization's context. The conversation explores the concepts of agile software development, domain-driven design, and Wardley mapping. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the why...
2024-07-2258 min
Stellar Work#7 Alex Smith - StrategyIn this conversation, Benjamin interviews strategy expert Alex Smith. They discuss the concept of strategy and its importance in business. Alex emphasizes the need for businesses to focus on delivering unique value rather than competing for market share. They also touch on the strategic approaches of companies like Apple and Tesla. Alex provides insights into his book and shares resources for further learning.Guest:Alex is an award winning strategist known for his work with his company, Basic Arts where he aims to make companies without competitors. Alex is a responsible for the direction of...
2024-07-0839 min
Stellar Work#6 Jose Casal - Kanban and future of AgileIn this conversation, Benjamin and Jose discuss the future of agility and the challenges it faces. They touch on the role of certifications in the Agile space and the potential impact of AI on Agile practices. They caution against overreliance on AI and emphasize the importance of independent thinking and creativity in the knowledge work domain. In this conversation, Benjamin and Jose discuss the different approaches to transforming companies and agile methodologies. They emphasize the importance of understanding the unique context of each organization and not blindly copying the practices of successful companies like Spotify or Tesla. G...
2024-07-0149 min
Stellar Work#5 Joe Justice - Operating like a Musk CompanyIn this conversation, Benjamin and Joe Justice discuss the importance of having a clear goal and key performance indicators (KPIs) for companies to drive innovation. They emphasize the need for a thousand-year goal that motivates employees and creates a mission-driven workforce. They also highlight the concept of the Justice Board, which helps identify bottlenecks and child KPIs to drive innovation. The conversation touches on the modularity and simplicity of architecture, the role of teams in innovation, and the future of electric cars.Guest:Joe Justice is a prominent figure in the fields of agile management...
2024-06-2438 min
Stellar Work#4 Sonya Siderova - Flow Kanban Dashboards (getNave)Benjamin Igna and Sonya Siderova, the founder and CEO of NAVE, discuss the importance of data-driven decision making in improving workflows and delivering better products faster. She emphasizes the need for solutions tailored to each team's specific problems, rather than blindly following processes. Sonja explains how NAVE's Kanban Analytics suite helps teams optimize their processes and make reliable decisions based on objective flow metrics. They also highlight the value of maintaining stability in the system and the mindset shift required to prioritize finishing work over starting new work.Sponsors:😅 Well, making a podcast ain't cheap, so...
2024-06-1754 min
Stellar Work#3 Peter Stevens - Working like Tesla with AIIn this conversation, Benjamin and Peter discuss the principles and practices that companies like Tesla and SpaceX use to achieve speed and innovation. They explore the challenges faced by traditional automobile manufacturers in adapting to the fast-paced innovation of companies like Tesla. They also touch on the challenges of applying these principles to legacy companies. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities of implementing agile methodologies in hardware development.Sponsors:😅 Well, making a podcast ain't cheap, so this could be you.Guest:Peter B. Stevens is an Executive, Coach, Author, and Cer...
2024-06-1058 min
Stellar Work#2 Chris Jones - Product Operating ModelChris Jones, partner at Silicon Valley Product Group, discusses the concept of a product operating model and how it helps companies align with modern product practices. He explains that being product-driven or product-led is more than just a power structure within the company, and it involves principles, competencies, and roles beyond product management. Chris highlights the importance of empowering teams to solve problems rather than just building features, and the need for a coherent product strategy. He also shares an example of Trainline, a company that successfully transitioned to a product-centered organization. In this conversation, Chris Jones and Benjamin...
2024-06-0351 min
Stellar Work#1 Paolo Sammichelli - Agile HardwarePaolo Sammicheli, a Scrum trainer, discusses the application of Scrum in hardware development projects. He highlights the importance of visualizing and challenging the decisions made during the development process. He emphasizes that every project, regardless of the domain, involves making and embedding decisions. Paolo shares examples of hardware projects he has worked on, including IoT platforms, industrial machinery, and civil engineering projects. He also addresses the challenges of implementing Scrum in construction and production environments. Paolo emphasizes the need for effective coaching and rapport-building to encourage teams to embrace retrospectives and continuous improvement. He explains that Scrum helps mitigate...
2024-05-2058 min
Stellar WorkTrailerHey everyone, welcome to Stellar Work. The podcast that explores the art of creating exceptional products and services that not only inspire their customers but also ignite the passion of the developers behind them. Each episode, we shine a spotlight on incredible individuals who are pushing the boundaries and reshaping the landscape of product development. From groundbreaking strategies to innovative solutions, our guests share their experiences and insights on what it takes to make a mark in these dynamic fields. I'm your host, Ben, and I invite you to join us as we explore these fascinating topics and learn...
2024-05-1300 min