Shows
People Process ProgressFrom the GWOT to Giving Back: How Clay Surratt Builds Others Through Martial ArtsIn this episode of People, Process, Progress, From the GWOT to Giving Back: How Clay Surratt Builds Others Through Martial Arts, host Kevin Pannell sits down with Clay Surratt, the founder of Guerrilla ATX. Together, they explore the transition from military service to civilian life and how the "mission" doesn't end when the uniform comes off—it just changes shape.Clay opens up about his journey from joining the Army in the wake of 9/11 to finding a new calling in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). He shares how he uses martial arts as a restorative practice to...
2026-02-141h 30People Process ProgressWhen the Bagpipes Play: Owning the Moment, Moving through the Weight, Anchoring What Comes NextThis week’s episode, When the Bagpipes Play: Owning the Moment, Moving through the Weight, Anchoring What Comes Next, is about the weight of losing brothers and sisters in public safety, the responsibility of planning line of duty death services, and how to move through grief in a healthier way.I break it down using a simple framework:Own where you are.Move through the weight together.Anchor what comes next with connection and support.This one is for those who have carried the flag, stood watch, or covered a...
2026-02-0408 minPeople Process ProgressLet the Work Grow | Faith in Action FridayGrowth can’t be rushed.In this Faith in Action Friday episode, Kevin reflects on a lesson drawn from farming and from life experience: you can do the right work and still harm the outcome if you try to force progress.Using Psalm 126:5–6, this episode explores the difference between sowing well and harvesting too early, and what patience, consistency, and faith look like in 2025.
2025-12-1203 minPeople Process ProgressAI for Leaders: The Data Advantage in Healthcare StrategyAI is no longer just an operational tool. It’s becoming one of the most important strategic lenses healthcare leaders can use. In this episode, Kevin explains how AI can sharpen decision-making, strengthen business cases, highlight opportunities you can’t see from the boardroom, and help leaders measure progress with smarter, predictive metrics.You’ll hear how executives can use AI to guide portfolio decisions, forecast ROI, identify gaps across the system, and build KPIs that actually show future impact. Kevin also shares how governance and a focused analytics team can turn AI into a lead...
2025-12-0106 minPeople Process ProgressHow are YOU Mentoring Others? - Reset Friday | S7 Ep8In this Reset Friday road edition, Kevin reflects on the importance of sharing what we know instead of keeping it bottled up. Too often, knowledge, skills, and experience leave with us when we move on from a job, a team, or even life itself. Mentorship—formal or informal—is how we make sure others don’t have to start from scratch.Kevin shares examples from the workplace, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and fitness to illustrate how anyone can be a mentor, whether by giving pointers, offering structure, or simply encouraging someone to start. Whether you’re brand new or seasoned...
2025-09-2705 minPeople Process ProgressStop Fear, Rumors, and Pressure From Running Your Life - Reset Friday #2 | S7Ep6In this Reset Friday, Kevin Pannell shares how one jack rabbit can spook a herd of sheep and how the same happens to us when fear, rumors, or groupthink take over. Drawing from Deuteronomy 32:30 and Joyce Meyer’s 15 Minutes in the Word, Kevin shows how this plays out at work, in politics, in church, and at home, then offers three ways to stay steady: mindfulness, ownership, and connection.
2025-09-2007 minPeople Process ProgressWhy I’m Taking a Break and What You Can Do in the MeantimeKevin is taking a short break from the People, Process, Progress podcast until September. During this time, he's focused on publishing The Stability Equation audiobook, finishing his new project management book, and lining up future guests. Visit peopleprocessprogress.com for tools, resources, and ways to connect. Until then: own your mind, move your body, anchor your spirit.Godspeed y’allKevin
2025-07-2802 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Decide Between Remote, Hybrid, or In-Office WorkSince 2019, I’ve led major IT programs, including Workday ERP and the technology for a new children’s hospital, while mainly working remotely. In this episode, "Remote, Hybrid, or In-Office: What's the Right Fit?", I break down the pros and cons of remote, hybrid, and in-office work, drawing on real-world experience and leadership lessons.Links:Full article on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/remote-hybrid-in-office-whats-right-fit-your-work-life-kevin-pannell-kqvceRelated episode from 2020:https://blubrry.com/peopleprocessprogress/83155078/how-to-transition-to-effective-teleworking-in-2020-ppp-12/
2025-07-0110 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Run Your Event Like a Successful ProjectPlanning a public event without structure is a risk you can’t afford. In this episode, How to Treat How to Run Your Event Like a Successful Project, Kevin Pannell shares how to apply project management principles and ICS tools, like RACI matrices, project phases, SMART goals, and SitReps, to plan safer, smoother public safety events. Whether you're leading a 5K, a drill, or a community gathering, treat the event like a project—and lead with purpose.Topics Covered: event planning, project phases, stakeholder roles, ICS, SMART goals, emergency management, public safety leadership
2025-06-0216 min
Anchor Your SpiritGet Down, Get Back Up AgainPillar: Sleep (Recovery)Psalm: Psalm 37:23–24“The steps of a man are established by the Lord... though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.”
2025-05-2000 minAnchor Your SpiritConnection All Around UsPillar: ConnectionPsalm: Psalm 112:1–2“Blessed is the man who fears the Lord... His offspring will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.”
2025-05-2000 minAnchor Your SpiritGuardrails of TruthPillar: BoundariesPsalm: Psalm 119:9“How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.”
2025-05-2000 minAnchor Your SpiritOwn It and Renew ItPillar: OwnershipPsalm: Psalm 51:10“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”
2025-05-2000 minPeople Process ProgressAll-Hazards Project Management: Series Kickoff and What to ExpectWelcome to the 20-episode run of the All-Hazards Project Management: Series Kickoff and What to Expect of the People, Process, Progress podcast.Since I was seventeen, I’ve been involved in public safety, emergency medicine, and planning events or incident responses. Across all these roles, one truth has stood out: effective planning connects them all. In public safety, it’s about saving lives and protecting property—but that only works when teams share a process and operate efficiently. In emergency medicine, triage and crisis standards guide us to do the greatest good for the greates...
2025-05-1602 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Tackle Scope Creep with People, Process, and CourageIn this episode, How to Tackle Scope Creep with People, Process, and Courage we're diving into how to protect our projects, keep our sanity, and build stronger teams in the process.Episode outlineIntroCore conceptsThe People Side: Assertiveness and Stakeholder Boundaries The Process Side: Change Control Systems (Hard Skills/PM Tools)The Progress Side: Leading with Clarity Under Pressure Summary & ClosingGodspeed y'all,Kevin
2025-05-0615 minPeople Process ProgressThe 7 Pillars Field Guide Audiobook, how to build a more balanced lifeThis episode is an audiobook-like version of the The 7 Pillars Field Guide Audiobook, how to build a more balanced life distills the key, actionable tools and techniques from The Stability Equation into one-page summaries of each of the seven pillars: ownership, mindfulness, movement, boundaries, connection, sleep, and faith.Godspeed y'all,Kevin
2025-04-2418 minPeople Process ProgressProject handoffs that work, how to receive and deliver with clarityWelcome back to the People, Process, Progress podcast, the podcast dedicated to fostering pragmatic optimism in your professional world. Today, in Project handoffs that work, how to receive and deliver with clarity we're tackling a universal challenge: the art of the good project handoff. Whether you're a healthcare professional transitioning patient care, a software developer handing off a project, or simply passing the baton in any collaborative effort, a smooth handoff is crucial for success. So, let's dive in and explore some key elements for both providing and receiving a stellar handoff.
2025-04-2216 minPeople Process ProgressPortfolio management lessons from Skyrim for project leadersIn Portfolio management lessons from Skyrim for project leaders, I share how the choices made in the virtual fantasy world of Skyrim parallel the strategic decisions Portfolio Managers and leaders must make when planning, resourcing, and executing projects within their organizations' portfolios.Episode focus areas:Effective resource allocation and prioritizationEffective stakeholder managementEffective risk managementEffective progress tracking and benefit realizationGodspeed y'all,Kevin
2025-04-1416 minPeople Process ProgressHow to ask objective questions that improve decisionsRestarting the Fix It Friday series with the March 2024 episode from the Hope is NOT a Plan podcast. This episode delves into the crucial skill of asking objective questions to drive clarity and problem-solving. We explore how unbiased inquiries can empower teams and improve processes by drawing parallels to the host's diverse podcasting journey and the principles in his book The Stability Equation. Learn practical techniques to formulate effective objective questions and unlock better organizational outcomes.How to ask:Focus on "who," "what," "when," "where," and "how" questionsAvoid leading questions that suggest an a...
2025-04-1108 minPeople Process ProgressOfficial Launch: Get Your Copy of The Stability Equation Book on Amazon!Hey everyone!I'm excited to officially announce the launch of my book, The Stability Equation: 7 Pillars for a More Balanced Life! This subreddit was created to discuss the principles and practices outlined in the book, and I'm so grateful to have you all here.This book is deeply personal, born from my struggles with anxiety, trauma, and the journey to find lasting mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. It shares the roadmap I developed – the 7 Pillars – that helped me reclaim my balance.This book can serve as a pract...
2025-04-0713 minPeople Process ProgressThe Stability Equation: 7 Pillars for a More Balanced LifeToday's episode, The Stability Equation: 7 Pillars for a More Balanced Life, is all about building a balanced life, a life that honors the miracle you are while acknowledging the human imperfections that come along with the ride. We're talking about the seven pillars that, when stacked carefully, create a life that's not just planned – it's thriving.
2025-03-2327 minPeople Process ProgressFive Benefits of Family Time Off | S4 Ep20Welcome back to People, Process, Progress podcast. Today, on Five Benefits of Family Time Off, I'm diving into something I believe is essential for well-being and something that often gets pushed down the priority list amidst our busy schedules: family vacations.The benefits:Stress reductionFamily bonding and connectionEnhanced problem-solving skillsPositive impact on physical healthCreating memories togetherGodspeed.
2025-03-1810 minPeople Process ProgressA Historical Look at Information Manipulation in US Politics | S4Ep19Episode Objectives:Historical overview of political manipulation tactics used throughout America’s historyFive key examples of manipulation spanning different erasSix actionable strategies for navigating today's complex political landscapeGodspeed y'all.
2025-03-0418 minPeople Process ProgressThe People, Process, & Progress of Public Health | S4Ep18In this episode, The People, Process, & Progress of Public Health, I talk about what public health is, why it matters, and why it's crucial to protect it from political whiplash, ensuring that the critical work of keeping communities healthy continues regardless of who's in office.
2025-02-2312 minPeople Process ProgressHow Technical Should Project Managers Really Be? | S4Ep17Hello everyone and welcome back to The People, Process, & Progress Podcast, I’m your host Kevin Pannell. On today’s episode, How Technical Should Project Managers Really Be? | S4Ep17 I’m speaking to Project Managers, aspiring PMs, team leads, and anyone involved in software or technical projects. My goal is to talk through the optimal level of technical understanding for project managers, emphasizing the value of technical literacy without overstepping into solution design, and balancing tactical involvement with strategic oversight.
2025-02-0715 minPeople Process ProgressFive Focus Areas for Project Managers in 2025 | S4Ep16As a Project Manager I'm always seeking new knowledge, skills, and abilities to help me empower my team members and project partners. In Five Focus Areas for Project Managers in 2025, I'm sharing focus areas I will be diving deeper into and that I've gotten questions about from my teams and the internet.
2025-02-0516 minPeople Process ProgressHow we Should Reform the Federal Emergency Management Agency | S4Ep15On today’s episode, How we Should Reform the Federal Emergency Management Agency, I’ll examine the critical role of FEMA in disaster relief and explore strategies to improving its effectivenessHow we can improve FEMA:Thorough After-Action Report/Improvement Plans (AAR/IPs)Direct engagement with FEMA employees and the publicStreamline Local and State assistance processesEnhance pre-disaster collaboration at all levelsGodspeed y'al
2025-01-2717 minPeople Process ProgressFive Steps to Extreme Ownership for Project Managers | S4Ep14In this audio from my video, I share lessons learned from the book Extreme Ownership written by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin and from my completion of the Echelon Front course Extreme Ownership Framework and how Project Managers can apply them when leading teams.Find a course and sign up at https://academy.echelonfront.com/
2025-01-2410 minPeople Process ProgressSeven Powerful Quotes to Help You Balance Your Life in 2025 | S4Ep13Over the past few years, I’ve pulled together seven focus areas for my life that I call the “7 Pillars”, of ownership, mindfulness, movement, boundaries, connection, sleep, and faith. Today on Seven Powerful Quotes to Help You Balance Your Life in 2025, I’m sharing quotes from seven of the most influential people I’ve heard speak, read books from, and worked with and how I apply these concepts in my life.Quotes from:Jocko WillinkAndy PuddicombeEmma McAdamJackson BaynardJohan HarriMatthew WalkerThe HospitalerGodspeed y'all.
2025-01-1912 minPeople Process ProgressProject Risk Management Lessons from the Challenger Disaster | S4Ep12The Challenger disaster serves as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous risk assessment and the potential consequences of ignoring or downplaying warnings. In Risk Management Lessons from the Challenger Disaster, I'm paralleling takeaways from the Challenger disaster with how Project Managers can reduce project risk through effective risk management.Godspeed to the Challenger Astronauts Sharon Christa McAuliffe, Michael J. Smith, Judith A. Resnik, Ronald E. McNair, Ellison S. Onizuka, and Gregory B. Jarvis
2025-01-1706 minPeople Process ProgressRisk Management Lessons from the Challenger Disaster | S4Ep11The Challenger disaster serves as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous risk assessment and the potential consequences of ignoring or downplaying warnings. In Risk Management Lessons from the Challenger Disaster, I'm paralleling takeaways from the Challenger disaster with how Project Managers can reduce project risk through effective risk management.Godspeed to the Challenger Astronauts Sharon Christa McAuliffe, Michael J. Smith, Judith A. Resnik, Ronald E. McNair, Ellison S. Onizuka, and Gregory B. Jarvis
2025-01-1706 minPeople Process ProgressMoving Past Paralysis During Analysis | S4Ep10In Moving Past Paralysis During Analysis I'm sharing five considerations for leaders who need to move their teams to a decision point and out of an analysis rut whether planning a disaster response or a technology project.
2025-01-1411 minPeople Process ProgressEight Steps to Effective Strategic Communication | S4Ep9On today’s Framework Friday, Eight Steps to Effective Strategic Communication, I’m going to share the National Incident Management System (NIMS) 8-step process that many Public Information Officers (PIO) use to effectively communicate before, during, and after disasters.Reference: page 20 of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) Basic Guidance for Public Information Officers (PIOs)
2025-01-1109 minPeople Process ProgressHow NOT to Brief the Public After a Disaster | S4Ep8In this episode, How NOT to Brief the Public After a Disaster, I’ll share insight from my time on an All-Hazards Incident Management Team (AHIMT) on what not to do when briefing the public and press after a critical incident and proposed solutions to improve crisis communication in the future.Lessons learned:Not overcrowding the roomNot using basic mannersNot being honest with the publicNot letting Operations speakNot briefing leaders ahead of timeNot showing a Unified Command presenceGodspeed y'all,Kevin
2025-01-0515 minPeople Process ProgressBreathing, Framing, and Surviving in Jiu-Jitsu and in Life | S4Ep7In Breathing, Framing, and Surviving in Jiu-Jitsu and in Life, I’m speaking about the importance of breathing, placing physical and metaphorical frames in your life, and surviving. I’m speaking to you folks facing challenging times, Jiu-Jitsu practitioners, fitness enthusiasts, anyone interested in self-improvement, …in other words. All humans. In this episode:Breathing in BJJWim Hof and 2-to-1 breathing techniquesSetting mental and physical frames in BJJ and lifeSurviving by balancing your "7 pillars"Godspeed y'all,Kevin
2025-01-0313 minPeople Process ProgressLessons Learned from 2024 and Tools I'm Doubling Down On in 2025 | S4 Ep6In Lessons Learned from 2024 and Tools I'm Doubling Down On in 2025, I'm sharing a roundup of non-family and friend influential people, products, exercises, mindsets, and tools I found helpful in 2024 and that I'll build on going into 2025.
2024-12-3011 minPeople Process ProgressWhen You Miss Someone at Christmas | S4Ep5My Dad passed away in April of this year and this is my first Christmas without him. So I'm trying to find a way to honor my Father's memory, to acknowledge the pain, and perhaps, to find some peace. I wrote a poem, When You Miss Someone at Christmas, and I'd like to share it with you.Merry Christmas and Godspeed y'all,Kevin
2024-12-2501 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Craft Impactful User Stories for Improved Outcomes | S4Ep4Today, on Framework Friday episode one, How to Craft Impactful User Stories for Improved Outcomes, we're diving into a powerful tool for defining "what done looks like": user stories.People:Users, customers, and ourselvesProcess:Crafting user storiesUsing the MoSCoW prioritization methodProgress:Defining "what done looks like." more effectivelyGodspeed y'all,Kevin
2024-12-2007 minPeople Process ProgressFor Personal Fitness the Simple Answer is the Way | S4Ep2Getting out of shape doesn't happen overnight. Gaining weight isn't an instant occurrence. So, what's to be done? Hit play and let's improve together.
2024-12-0100 minPeople Process ProgressWelcome to the Re-launch of the People, Process, Progress Podcast | S4Ep1In Welcome to the Re-launch of the People, Process, Progress Podcast, Host Kevin Pannell reunites himself with listeners after a one-year detour. Kevin shares why he stepped away, why he's back, and what listeners can expect from him and his guests in the future.“Sooner or later, everything old is new again.” - Stephen KingFuture focus:Leadership and managementTeam building and collaborationPersonal development and growthInnovation and creativityand more!more at peopleprocessprogress.com
2024-11-3004 minPeople Process ProgressHow You Can Influence the Influencers John C. Maxwell Style | Foundations Friday #106Providing practical considerations to the John Maxwell Company, list 7 Factors that Influence Influence (or Influencers)Read the original list at https://www.johnmaxwell.com/blog/7-factors-that-influence-influence/Get John C. Maxwell's book Good Leaders Ask Great Questions at https://www.amazon.com/Good-Leaders-Ask-Great-Questions/dp/145554809X
2023-09-0805 minPeople Process ProgressHelping Fathers Live Legendary with The Dad Edge Founder Larry Hagner | KEV Talks Podcast #36In this episode of the KEV Talks Podcast, meet Larry Hagner, the visionary behind The Dad Edge – a platform that inspires men to create and sustain strong relationships with their spouses and children, while also achieving overall wellness in various aspects of their lives. During our conversation, Larry opened up about his personal journey of growing up without a reliable father figure, and how he drew valuable insights from his experiences to establish The Dad Edge. He also offered practical advice on how we can improve communication with our kids and nurture our marriages through pro...
2023-08-2957 minPeople Process ProgressThe Power of Proactivity | Foundations Friday #105Being proactive is a power. It enables us to prepare our minds for hardship better, and proactive Public Safety leaders and Project Managers can provide better contingency plans. In the realm of Public Safety, taking proactive planning action saves lives. For Project Managers, a proactive planning approach saves time, money, and resources, and keeps the quality of our team's work high.Join me for this episode inspired by my soon-to-be-released interview with Larry Hagner of The Dad Edge (https://thedadedge.com/) as I expand on my thoughts and share more advantages to the proactive...
2023-08-2503 minPeople Process ProgressThe Right Move at the Wrong Time is the Wrong Move | Foundations Friday #105In The Right Move at the Wrong Time is the Wrong Move | Foundations Friday #105, I share Rener Gracie's quote on episode #399 of the Jocko Podcast. I also share how Project Managers and Planning Section Chiefs should consider this sentiment when pulling together multi-disciplinary teams.Rener Gracie's book is available on Amazon (no affiliate)Listen to Jocko Podcast #399 with Rener GracieHope is NOT a plan - No egos - No silos - Godspeed
2023-08-1803 minPeople Process ProgressThe Importance of the Elevator Pitch | Foundations Friday #104Being able to describe our processes succinctly is critical. Summarizing our elevator pitch is also very important as well. Often we don't get a lot of time with our executive leaders, so we have to maximize the face time we do get. This is where we can deliver the "bottom line up front" approach to queuing up leadership decisions.In 2 minutes or less, be able to:Summarize the thing you need a decision onState the decision the team needs the leader to makeDescribe the impact on scope, schedule, cost, or qualityShare the team's...
2023-08-1103 minPeople Process ProgressHope is NOT a Plan | Foundations Friday #102Having hope is crucial. It helps us persevere when we're feeling stuck, motivates us when we're unwell, and pulls us out of the depths of despair during difficult times. However, while hope can be a powerful driving force, it's not enough on its own to get things done.Hope won’t build a fire, make a shelter or find a water source when you’re strandedHope will not get you out of bed; push your body to move through the trauma and begin to healHope alone will not help you succeed at work and advance in y...
2023-07-2801 minPeople Process ProgressWe are responsible for how we respond to our traumas | Foundations Friday #101In We are responsible for how we respond to our traumas I echo a sentiment shared by Andy Stumpf on his 'Cleared Hot' Podcast about how we are not responsible for traumas we experience, but that we are 100% responsible for how we react and respond to them.My suggestions:Ask for guidance, then take actionTake the first step. Literally by walking each morning.Don't wait for someone else to do it for youGodspeed y'all,Kevin
2023-07-2106 minPeople Process ProgressSomeone Else's Poor Planning IS Our Problem | Foundations Friday #100We did it. We put together 100 'Foundations Friday' episodes. On this week's #100 I elaborate on why the proverb, "Poor planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on mine" is well, nonsense.
2023-07-0803 minPeople Process ProgressThe Declaration for Project Managers | KEV Talks Podcast #34As a tribute to one of my favorite documents, The Declaration of Independence, I created The Declaration for Project Managers. Although the original is a timeless classic, I enjoyed putting my own spin on it by outlining the best practices that every Project Manager should adhere to from the start to the end of each project they undertake.
2023-07-0403 minPeople Process ProgressWhat You Allow in Your Presence You Promote | Foundations Friday #99Sharing the perspective that leaders that allow negative behaviors to go on imply support for that activity to continue.
2023-07-0102 minPeople Process Progress5 Ways to Reduce Level Zero Incidents in EMS and Improve EMS Employee Retention | KEV Talks #33In 5 Ways to Reduce Level Zero Incidents in EMS and Improve EMS Employee Retention, I elaborate on how Emergency Medical Services (EMS) leaders can improve EMS worker retention and reduce the risk of having "level zero" EMS systems.
2023-06-2716 minPeople Process ProgressDiscover the Reality of the American Nuclear Energy Sector with George Pannell (Part 2) | KEV Talks #32In Discover the Reality of the American Nuclear Energy Sector with George Pannell (Part 2) | KEV Talks #32, George Pannell, an expert in American Nuclear Energy, expertly explains the mechanics of nuclear power plants and the contributing factors to America's nuclear power stagnation and proposes measures to mitigate our dependence on foreign nations for energy.
2023-06-201h 45People Process ProgressFour Reasons Why Hierarchy Matters | Foundations Friday #98In Four Reasons Why Hierarchy Matters | Foundations Friday #98 I share why I believe and have seen the benefits of having a hierarchy in organizations and on program and project teams.Basic Points:Shows who's whoTells who is accountableProvides protective umbrellaClarifies Unity of Command
2023-06-1607 minPeople Process ProgressFrom the Steel Mill to the Submarine Service with George Pannell (Part 1) | KEV Talks #31In From the Steel Mill to the Submarine Service with George Pannell (Part 1) | KEV Talks 31, I talk to U.S. Navy Veteran and Nuclear Power pioneer George Pannell about his journey from the steel mills of Pennsylvania to the Silent Service of the U.S. Navy.Stay tuned for Part 2 of our discussion coming next week as Dad and I talk through changes in the Nuclear Power world from the 1970s through today.Thank you all for watching here and for listening to the podcast.
2023-06-1346 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Support the Otto on Your Project Team | Foundations Friday #97I recently watched A Man Called Otto starring Tom Hanks, Mariana Treviño, and Rachel Keller. I cried. A lot. In addition to the emotional story, A Man Called Otto reminded me that we've all had "Ottos" on our project teams.In How to Support the Otto on Your Project Teams | Foundations Friday #97, I share 5 traits Ottos shares and how we as team leaders can leverage them and support the human behind the gruff and direct personality that Otto displays.
2023-06-0909 minPeople Process ProgressOne Action Can Change Someone's Life | Foundations Friday #96In One Action Can Change Someone's Life | Foundations Friday #96, remind us how Rob from McDojoLife's friend's one act of giving him a card to call a martial arts school after he was beaten by other students changed the course of Rob's life. I also talk about how a single question to Rob during a Jiu-Jitsu class led him to create the McDojoLife movement that now has thousands of followers around the world and will soon put out a documentary supported by leaders from the Martial Arts industry.
2023-06-0205 minPeople Process ProgressKeeping the Martial Arts Legit with Rob from McDojoLife | KEV Talks #30Rob's life trajectory was changed by one act from a friend. In our almost two hours discussion, Rob and I talk about:How his friend's suggestion changed his lifeRob's martial arts pathThe question that prompted him to start McDojoLifeBalancing tradition with being an adult martial artistInsight into the McDojoLife documentaryLife-changing surgeries Operation Smile facilitates correcting smile and cleft conditionsRob's vision of a martial arts convention for alland more!Thank you for subscribing, listening, and sharing the show.
2023-05-301h 55People Process ProgressKeep Your Elbows Tight with Travis Motl of the Elbows Tight Podcast | KEV Talks #29Travis Motl (Moat+L), is a Husband, Father, U.S. Navy Veteran, BJJ Blue Belt, and fellow podcaster. Travis hosts the Elbows Tight podcast where he talks "...to everyone from brand new white belts to well-established black belts to discuss their experiences, challenges, and successes.". In this episode, Travis and I talk about where he's from, and share our U.S. Navy lessons learned, and challenges with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), provide tips for starting a podcast, and discuss the future of the Elbows Tight show.Key discussion points from this episode:Travis...
2023-05-231h 02People Process Progress5 Lessons from American Revolutionary Leaders to Build a Project Team of Giants | KEV Talks #28In 5 Lessons from American Revolutionary Leaders to Build a Project Team of Giants | KEV Talks #28 I share 5 lessons I learned from reading Jack Kelly's amazing book, "Band of Giants: The Amateur Soldiers Who Won America's Independence". More specifically, how these lessons can be implemented by Program and Project Managers to establish their own team of giants to increase program and project success.The 5 lessons:Review lessons learned ahead of timeAccept the messy beginningSet the tone, but allow for free thinkingUnderstand that logistics are criticalManage the mutinies
2023-05-1821 minPeople Process Progress5 Morning Challenges to Make the Rest of Your Day Easier | Foundations Friday #94I share 5 things I do daily that have improved my mental, spiritual, and physical health and that I recommend to each of you.Get up earlyGet exerciseTake a cold showerFast or eat good foodPractice mindfulness
2023-05-1210 minPeople Process ProgressThe Incident Command System Works for All Things | Foundations Friday #93Sharing how both the principles and documents from the Incident Command System work when planning projects, programs, or other events.
2023-05-0508 minPeople Process ProgressThe Value of Training BJJ when Traveling to New Cities | You-Jitsu #27I've been traveling lately, and I took my BJJ gear this past trip. It was great to visit the BJJ gym I started at and train with a different group of people. In this episode, I expand on the value of training at other gyms and provide perspective on the diversity of the BJJ community.
2023-05-0105 minPeople Process ProgressBalance Optics versus Outcomes in Programs and Projects | Foundations Friday #92I recorded this one in the hotel gym this morning as I reflected on some recent work balancing how our team efforts look with what we're accomplishing. I submit to the listener to consider how many calories to put into the appearance of solid planning and support with providing results-driven outcomes for program and project go-lives and milestones.
2023-04-2802 minPeople Process ProgressBe a Good Project Manager to be an Effective Program Manager | Foundations Friday #91As a Program Manager, we need to be ready to jump into any Project level work on behalf of our people or our organization. In Be a Good Project Manager to be an Effective Program Manager | Foundations Friday #91, I share my journey from Status Check-In Recorder to Planning Section Chief and the parallels to becoming a Senior Project Manager and Program Manager in the Healthcare IT space.
2023-04-2103 minPeople Process ProgressBalance Helping Others with Just Rolling | You-Jitsu #26As a salty, 49-year-old Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) Blue Belt practicing BJJ for 4.5 years, I like to help folks just starting their BJJ training. When I sweep a white belt, then move to Mount, I often see the "deer in the headlights" look on their face. So, I have often walked them through the arm and leg trap and then bridge escape. Long this theme when a white belt tries a submission, but it's not..umm...good at all; I'll talk them through what I think they were trying to do. But sometimes, I want to roll, and that's...
2023-04-1503 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Deal with Anxiety Like Ted Lasso | Foundations Friday #90Ted Lasso is one of my favorite streaming shows. It is a show starring Jason Sudeikis as Ted. Ted is an American Football coach who goes to England to coach and lead a Soccer team there. In addition to the humor and lessons in leadership I get from the show, I am also glad the writers highlight how stress and anxiety can negatively affect those who seemingly have no issues.In How to Deal with Anxiety Like Ted Lasso | Foundations Friday #90, I talk about anxiety and re-share interviews I've had on the KEV Talks...
2023-04-1404 minPeople Process Progress5 Doses of Reality We Can All Use in 2023 | KEV Talks #27Five positive life-impacting statements that inspired and encouraged me and continue to give me a kick in the pants I need sometimes.“Those who have a 'why' to live, can bear with almost any 'how.'” – Viktor E. Frankl quoting Friedrich Nietzsche in Man’s Search for Meaning“There is no shortcut. There is no hack. There’s only one way. So, get after it.” – Jocko Willink, Discipline Equals Freedom Field Manual.“Well, why don’t you just do it afraid?” – Joyce Meyer quoting a friend of hers.“We have an opportunity to make health so central that we have am...
2023-04-1217 minPeople Process ProgressThere's Always Opportunity for Rebirth | Foundations Friday 89In There's Always Opportunity for Rebirth | Foundations Friday 89, I share how the study of Passover and Easter has reminded me that we always have the opportunity to make changes in our personal and professional lives.
2023-04-0704 minPeople Process Progress6 Considerations When Leading a Program of Programs | KEV Talks #26Leading projects is a challenge. Leading programs, and a group of projects, is even more challenging. So, what do we do when we're asked to lead a program of programs? In this week's episode, 6 Considerations When Leading a Program of Programs, I share six things to consider when you're asked to lead at an even higher level than a program.Things to Consider:Take it up a notch (in view altitude)Support your Project Managers to become Program ManagersThink even more holisticallyEmbrace dynamic standardsBe objective, but provide directionNourish the different personalities
2023-04-0515 minPeople Process ProgressSome People Will Surpass You and That's Ok | Foundations Friday 88There are people that started training Jiu Jitsu that are now better than me. There are people in my professional life that have surpassed me in position and knowledge. As Jocko Willink says, "Good.".Why is this "Good"? In Jiu Jitsu, it's good because, through hardship, we celebrate each other's success. We sharpen each other with each roll because we learn to supplant the ego and celebrate others' wins.In business, this can be a little harder. But when someone advances, and we don't, we can ask ourselves, "How...
2023-03-3103 minPeople Process ProgressSlow Down to See the Path More Clearly | You-Jitsu #26Carrying over some Jiu-Jitsu tips for newer BJJ players, focusing on slowing down and making the moves correctly. This is also true in life. Sometimes we must slow down and take time with family, decisions, or more things.BreatheFrameSurvive
2023-03-2902 minPeople Process ProgressDon't Just Rinse and Repeat Your Projects | Foundations Friday 87Sharing lessons I learned while reading Jack Kelly's book Band of Giants. More specifically, George Washington learned NOT to fight by watching the rigid British Military and then went on to adapt and stay dynamic as a leader while fighting for America's independence.Check out Kelly's book at your local library or purchase it at https://www.amazon.com/Band-Giants-Soldiers-Americas-Independence/dp/1466893281
2023-03-2404 minPeople Process ProgressDefinitive Guide to Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) - Part 2 | KEVTalks25I'm importing episodes 8-25 of the You-Jitsu Podcast, which was discontinued last week. In this Part 2 of 2 this episode compilation, I walk the listener further into the Jiu-Jitsu journey.In this episode:Importance of practicing stand upGiving White Belts some winsHow BJJ will call your bluffWhat makes a Blue Belt?Listener feedback - Focus on FundamentalsDifferences between Wrestling, Submission Grappling, and BJJWhat if you miss the BJJ class?That there are levels to BJJBeing anxious in BJJ is OKExercises to improve your BJJImportance of a solid base in BJJTop 3 escapes White Belts should kn...
2023-03-1556 minPeople Process Progress5 Ways to Embrace the Concept of Extreme Ownership | Foundations Friday 86I talk about how "Extreme Ownership" has become very popular over the past eight years thanks to the incredible book by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin of the same name and the outstanding teachings from the Echelon Front organization. In the episode, I also share how extreme ownership has existed for over 1,000 years and was practiced by Marcus Aurelius, according to Ryan Holiday of "The Daily Stoic." the five barriers we have to accept ownership and the five ways to embrace owning up to mistakes.
2023-03-1207 minPeople Process ProgressDefinitive Guide to Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) - Part 1| KEVTalks24I'm importing episodes 1-7 of the You-Jitsu Podcast, which will be discontinued next week. In this Part 1 of 2 episode compilation, I walk the curious through signing up for and attending a trial BJJ class and then share tips for when you sign up and start training regularly.Time Stamps:00:02:02 - Do the Intro Class00:03:27 - BJJ Intro Class Prep00:05:00- So, You Signed Up for BJJ?00:10:31 - Breathe00:13:19 - Frame00:15:00 - Survive00:15:56 - No Free Grips
2023-03-0717 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Produce Powerful Product Solutions in Fintech with Canopy's Technical Product Manager Jillian Funes | KEV Talks #20In How to Produce Powerful Product Solutions with Jillian Funes, I was fortunate to speak with Jillian Funes, Technical Product Manager at Canopy Servicing. During our fun discussion, Jillian shared how she started in the Tech sector after transitioning from Psychology. We also learn how Jillian didn't enjoy Project Management very much, but that led her to a career field she enjoys, Product Management.Essential Product Management Tips:Use the R.I.C.E. +D methodology when working with clientsDetermine if you can solve one or many customer's problemsUse the "5 Whys, 5 Times" approachDiscuss...
2023-02-071h 04People Process ProgressHow to Break Into Comedy and Avoid Student Debt with Comedian Chase O'Donnell | KEV Talks #19Chase O'Donnell is hilarious, and her Instagram series of reels "If Musicals Were Real" is amazingly entertaining. Chase has been in "the biz" for quite some time. Chase grew up in a suburb of Los Angeles, started dancing at a young age, and made appearances on hit shows, including "Judging Amy."As Chase grew, she knew she wanted to make people laugh and pursued a career in standup comedy. Along the way, Chase wrote a play called "Too Blondes," in which she and Savannah Brown starred and received rave reviews. Feeling the call for...
2023-01-3150 minPeople Process ProgressUncover the Civil War's Hidden Leadership Secrets with JD Baker of OMNA International | KEV Talks #17In November 2014, I was fortunate to meet JD Baker on the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg National Military Park. JD walked my fellow Public Safety and Incident Management Team (IMT) members and me through leadership decisions made on the same grounds 151 years earlier. This event was called a "staff ride" and was part of the L-580 Leadership is Action course. L-580 is designed to teach senior IMT leaders historical leadership lessons that can be applied in the modern era. This staff ride has had a lasting impact on me personally and professionally ever since.I'm...
2023-01-171h 15People Process ProgressHow Rhonda Kelley and the All Clear Foundation are Building More Resilient Emergency Responders | KEV Talks #13On this episode of the KEV Talks Podcast ( @kevtalks ), Host Kevin Pannell and Rhonda Kelly, Executive Director of the All Clear Foundation ( @allclearfdn ), talk about how Emergency Responders can succeed, thrive, and matter using tools provided by the All Clear Foundation. Viewers and listeners will also learn about Rhonda's transition from providing emergency medicine aboard an icebreaker ship through her time on shift as a Firefighter and becoming the Executive Director of the All Clear Foundation.- Connect with Rhonda on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonda-kelly-99244610b/- Follow the...
2022-12-2059 minPeople Process ProgressHow a Public Safety Leader Beat Addiction with CAPT Henry "Hank" Smith | KEV Talks #8In How a Public Safety Leader Beat Addiction with CAPT Henry "Hank" Smith | KEV Talks #8, my good friend Henry “Hank” Smith and I catch up a bit, share his background in the U.S. Military and Public Safety, then get into the well known but often overlooked issued - substance abuse in Public Safety.Key timestamps:0:00 Reunited…and it feels so good01:48 Hank’s story begins12:26 First cardiac arrest call19:50 Hanks struggles with alcohol28:35 Where there’s smoke38:37 Putting the article together50:00 Looking inward01:05:00 Public Safety Progress01:11:55 Know you’re not alone...
2022-11-141h 14People Process ProgressImplementing the Power of "I will" and "I will not" statements | | Foundations Friday 71For 'Words Matter (The Power of "I will" and "I will not" statements)' I recorded in my garage gym this morning. On today's episode I'm sharing a mindset that I’ve worked to adopt recently from listening to ‘s ‘Unfu*k Yourself’- I will…(insert forward looking /positive actions)- I will not…(insert what actions and behaviors you will not accept)It really is up to each of us to determine what kind of life we have while we’re in this world. We can either mov...
2022-10-2802 minPeople Process ProgressHow You Can Use the DARE Response to Conquer Your Fears | KEV Talks #5Anxiety sucks. Heart palpitations, weak legs, upset stomach and on and on. But, anxiety also presents an opportunity for us to unfu*k ourselves. To not let anxiety win. To change our mindset. To live.In Face Anxiety: Using the DARE Response to Conquer Your Fears I share 5 tips, tools and techniques that my wife, me and many others have used to face our fears head on. It's not easy by any means, but it can be done.The 5 Tips, tools and techniques:The DARE ResponseCreating your own...
2022-10-2420 minPeople Process ProgressFrom Tactics to Strategy - Stepping Up from Project to Program Manager | Foundations Friday 70In From Tactics to Strategy: Stepping Up as a Program Manager I share advice I gave someone in the r/Project Management to a Project Manager moving up to doing Program Manager level work."Sooo, you're now going to do more strategic work and your focus should be at the 30k ft. level, not the 100ft level. Make sense?My $.02 for free:Do you have PMs for each project?If so, ask them to help shore up the information you needIf not, KISSGather what I call the "Foundational 5"...
2022-10-2103 minPeople Process ProgressPoems from a Young U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman | KEV Talks #4A bit of a program change this week on Podcast Poetry: Reading Poems I wrote as a Young Hospital Corpsman as I share three poems I wrote in September of 1996. At the time I was a U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman working in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Bethesda Naval Hospital and aboard the USNS Comfort. I found poetry to be a release from the sickness and pain I saw on a weekly basis.The Poems:Give a HootHooyah!Circle of LifeThank you all for listening, subscribing...
2022-10-1609 minPeople Process ProgressExploring the Power of Religion, Spirituality and Faith | KEV Talks #3For episode 3.Gotta Have Faith I dig into the differences between faith, religion and spirituality and we’ll review 4 ways the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) says faith can help our mental health.In this episode:What is religion?What is spirituality?What is faith?How are the three intertwined?Mental Health benefits of faith (of any kind)Prayer as mindfulness or meditationFaith based or other interest groups foster a feeling of togethernessFaith, addiction and other groups provide a sense of common understandingA focus on helping others helps us...
2022-10-1027 minPeople Process ProgressFor Coaches and Parents in Youth Sports | Foundations Friday 68I've been a parent for almost 16 years and spent ~10 of those on the sidelines or on the field as a Coach for Youth Soccer, Flag and Tackle Football and a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) kid's class. These are my tips for Parents and for Coaches to help build up the kids participating.Parents:Let kids be coachedKids carry their own equipmentIf you want to help, sign upYelling at kids, coaches and referees doesn't helpCoaches:Set the example"What you allow in your presence you promote"Building kids...
2022-10-0707 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Optimize Your Sleep | KEV Talks #2Sleep is critical for the mind, body and some say spirit to heal and maintain function. In this episode I'll help the listener understand the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) and share what worked for me when I had a bout of insomnia.Key Components Discussed:CBT-I vs. MedicationHow much sleep do we need?Multi-Component elements of CBT-ICognitiveBehavioralPsychoeducationalKey CBT-I ElementsStimulus ControlSleep Restriction & CompressionRelaxation TrainingReferences:https://www.sleepfoundation.org/insomnia/treatment/cognitive-behavioral-therapy-insomniahttps://health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships/get-enough-sleephttps://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/how...
2022-10-0422 minPeople Process ProgressMiracle of Human Life | Foundations Friday 67Sharing a quote and my $.02 from a great write up by Dr. Ali Binazir."So what's the probability of your being born? It's the probability of 2.5 million people getting together -- about the population of San Diego -- each to play a game of dice with trillion-sided dice. They each roll the dice -- and they all come up the exact same number -- say, 550,343,279,001." - Dr. Ali BinazirRead the full article at https://www.huffpost.com/entry/probability-being-born_b_877853Thank you for listening, subscribing an...
2022-09-2904 minPeople Process ProgressLife Changing Perspectives from Dr. Besel Van Der Kolk's book "The Body Keeps the Score" | PPP #109“The Body Keeps the Score” was a suggestion from the first Therapist I spoke to after my panic attack. This episode is my way of sharing Dr. Van Der Kolk’s fantastic work and how I think others like me can benefit from his research and the shared stories within the book.
2022-09-0638 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Plan for and Execute Effective Communication Plans | PPP #85Finishing out the 'Foundational 5' series with a definition of 'communication', importance of vertical and horizontal comms, the C.U.D.C. concept, active listening tips and guidance for IMTs and Project Teams.
2021-08-2926 minPeople Process ProgressBest Practices to Request and Coordinate Resources | PPP #84Sharing tips on how to effectively request, coordinate, care for and release resources for Incident Management Teams (IMT), Project Teams and more!
2021-08-2319 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Create an Effective Team Organizational Structure | PPP#83Whether functional, geographic based or a combination of both, pulling together a working organizational structure is key to meet program objectives and ensure alignment with leader's intent.
2021-08-1623 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Create SMART Objectives | FF30Providing SMART Objectives is critical for teams to be able to plan tactics to achieve them.
2021-08-1301 minPeople Process ProgressLearn to Create S.M.A.R.T. Objectives for Safer and More Effective Projects and Responses | PPP #82Sharing background, guidance and tips to create S.M.A.R.T. objectives for response, special events or projects
2021-08-0821 minPeople Process ProgressHere's How to Give and Receive Leader's Intent | PPP #81From Commander's Intent in the U.S. Military to Leader's Intent applied by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group and Lean teams, this first of the 'Foundational Five' is the key to setting teams in the right direction to accomplish the mission.
2021-08-0127 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Survive as a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) White Belt | PPP78Using the 'Foundational Five' structure to share intent, objectives, organization, resources and communications to help brand new Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) intro students through BJJ White Belts on the cusp of earning their Blue Belt to survive.The principles:INTENT: Help White Belts from intro class to those on the cusp of Blue Belt to survive the initial BJJ stormOBJECTIVE: Try an intro class, arrive ahead of time, accept…ORGANIZATION: Professor, Instructors, BJJ belts of…RESOURCES: Athletic tape, mouthpiece…COMMUNICATION: Tap early and often, Let folks know…Get up. Go train...
2021-06-2728 minPeople Process ProgressRequest Resources Early and Often | FF05I share my $.02 on how to ask for help before risks become issues. In other words, "Request resources early and often."
2021-02-1201 minPeople Process ProgressLessons from the January 2021 Capitol Chaos | PPP BonusIn this bonus episode I’ll share my observations as a former Planning Section Chief on the January 2021 U.S. Capitol Chaos.
2021-01-1010 minPeople Process ProgressHow to Transition from another Profession into Project ManagementIn How to Transition from another Profession into Project Management | PPP #53 I share how I mapped my skills as a Local Health Emergency Coordinator, EMS Planning Captain and Planning Section Chief to the traditional Project Management Institute (PMI) Project Management Knowledge.
2020-10-0430 minPeople Process ProgressJocko Willink and Leif Babin's 4 Laws of Combat for Project Managers | PPP #51How Jocko Willink and Leif Babin's 4 laws of combat apply to Project Managers
2020-09-1716 min