Podcast
Team Amplifier
Hosted by Byron Sommardahl · EN
Team Amplifier is the podcast that inspires tech leaders to build stronger, healthier software teams. We explore the intersection of leadership, team well-being, and project success—offering real stories, expert insights, and practical tools to help you amplify both human flourishing and performance in your team. Because when people thrive, great software follows.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Giving Them Clear Priorities with Charles Zivko
Mar 2500:32:29Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we interview Charles Zivko, a seasoned tech leader with over 25 years of experience. Currently a fractional CTO with a successful background as a technical co-founder, Charles shares his expertise on setting clear priorities for teams to enhance productivity and morale. The discussion covers the importance of defining success metrics, how to navigate potential pitfalls, and the impact of clear priorities on human flourishing within teams. Charles also talks about his unexpected journey to becoming a DJ and recommends the book 'Gap and the Gain' by Dan Sullivan as an influential read. * Charles Zivko on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-zivko * "The Gap and the Gain" by Dan Sullivan - https://www.amazon.com/Gap-Gain-Achievers-Happiness-Confidence/dp/B09HN6GKNY?tag=sommardahl-20\ * Website - https://samo.ventures/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 00:49 Charles Zivko's Background and Career 03:49 Embarrassing Moments in Tech Leadership 07:55 The Importance of Clear Priorities 15:57 Challenges in Setting Clear Priorities 23:20 Practical Tips for Tech Leaders 32:22 Conclusion and How to Connect with Charles
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Staying Out of the Details with Garrett Vargas
Mar 400:24:35Tap to summarizeIn this episode, the host speaks with Garrett Vargas, a tech and startup executive, currently a fractional CTO and skincare franchise owner. They explore the concept of 'staying out of the details' and its benefits for building flourishing teams. Garrett shares his extensive experience from Microsoft and Expedia, his journey into the startup world, and insights on business strategy from the book 'Your Next Five Moves.' He discusses personal anecdotes emphasizing the importance of trust in leadership, the pitfalls new leaders should avoid, and how staying out of the details can foster better team dynamics and individual growth. * Garrett Vargas on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrettvargas * "Your Next Five Moves" by Patrick Bet-David - https://www.amazon.com/Your-Next-Five-Moves-Business/dp/1982154810?tag=sommardahl-20 * Website - https://garrettvargas.com/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 00:56 Garrett's Career Journey 02:39 Book Recommendations and Insights 04:59 Embarrassing Mistakes as a Tech Leader 07:02 Staying Out of the Details: Management Philosophy 08:21 Benefits of Staying Out of the Details 15:20 Challenges and Pitfalls of Delegation 20:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Follow up call for discovery on using context switch cost to speed up software teams with Siddharth Dalal
Feb 1800:27:40Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we speak with Siddharth Dalal, an accomplished fractional CTO and avid reader, about the concept of task switch costs and how understanding and harnessing them can significantly improve team productivity and happiness. Siddharth Dalal shares his journey, from working at startups to founding his own with his son, and delves into why dividing tasks based on individual preferences can enhance team efficiency. He provides actionable insights on how tech leaders can pay closer attention to their teams' working habits, effectively assign tasks, and improve overall team collaboration and morale. Siddharth Dalal also discusses some common pitfalls and unexpected results when managing task switch costs, alongside sharing personal stories and practical advice for fostering human flourishing in teams. * Siddharth Dalal on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/s1dddotcom/ * "The Germans Have a Word for It" by T. R. Thorsen - https://www.amazon.com/Germans-Have-Word-T-Thorsen/dp/B0DRYHMLXD?tag=sommardahl-20 * Website - https://fraccel.com/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:08 Siddharth Dalal's Background and Current Work 01:38 Book Recommendations and Personal Anecdotes 02:50 Embarrassing Mistakes as a Tech Leader 05:04 Understanding Task Switch Costs 06:16 Harnessing Task Switch Costs for Team Efficiency 11:29 Challenges and Pitfalls in Managing Task Switch Costs 23:27 Unexpected Benefits of Task Switch Cost Management 27:33 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
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Taking Their Pulse Often with Annyce Davis
Feb 400:31:51Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Annyce Davis, the Senior Director of Engineering at Ford, shares her experiences and strategies on effectively leading tech teams. She emphasizes the importance of regularly checking the team's pulse to ensure their engagement and well-being. Davis discusses her journey at Ford, her passion for AI, and how she integrates technology to enhance her team's productivity and morale. She also delves into how she maintains constant communication with her team through simple yet effective methods like 15-minute check-ins and utilizing Slack for feedback. This conversation provides valuable insights for tech leaders aiming to cultivate a thriving, adaptive, and happy team. * Annyce Davis on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annycedavis/ * "Your AI Survival Guide" by Sol Rashidi - https://www.amazon.com/Your-Survival-Guide-Real-World-Deployments/dp/1394272634?tag=sommardahl-20 00:00 Introduction and Recording Instructions 01:43 Meet Annyce Davis: Tech Executive 02:45 The Impact of AI on Technology 06:57 Embarrassing Mistakes and Lessons Learned 09:24 The Importance of Taking Your Team's Pulse 13:16 Practical Tips for Checking Team Pulse 30:25 Unexpected Outcomes from Pulse Checks 33:18 Implementing Pulse Checks: Actionable Steps 34:36 Conclusion and Farewell
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Letting Them Opt Out of Meetings with Ben Shichman
Jan 2100:32:39Tap to summarizeIn this episode, tech leaders dive into the concept of allowing team members to opt out of meetings to boost productivity and enhance engagement. Ben Shiman, an experienced B2B and e-commerce leader, shares his insights on balancing meeting attendance with focused work time, touching on his own professional journey and some practical strategies for implementation. Learn about the potential pitfalls, the importance of context and communication, and the overall positive impact of granting team members more agency over their schedules. * Ben Shichman on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benshichman/ * "A World Without Email" by Cal Newport - https://www.amazon.com/World-Without-Email-Reimagining-Communication/dp/0525536558?tag=sommardahl-20 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:07 Ben's Background and Current Focus 02:56 The Importance of Reading and Recommended Books 04:28 Confession Time: Embarrassing Mistakes 07:01 Opting Out of Meetings: Concept and Implementation 10:52 Challenges and Benefits of Opting Out 16:28 Practical Tips for Leaders 23:34 Concluding Thoughts and Final Advice
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Helping Them to Fail Better with Ken Deegan
Jan 700:33:38Tap to summarizeIn this episode, host Byron chats with Ken Deegan, a fractional CTO and former software engineer, about the importance of helping teams to 'fail better'. Ken shares insights from his experience transitioning from software development to tech leadership, highlighting the value of creating an environment where team members feel safe to take risks and learn from their mistakes. The conversation touches on the significance of empathy, resilience, and open communication. They also discuss practical tips for fostering a culture of innovation and support within tech teams, as well as the benefits of human flourishing that come from handling failures constructively. * Ken Deegan on LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-deegan-330a5327 * "Glyph" by Ali Smith - https://www.amazon.com/Glyph-Novel-Ali-Smith-ebook/dp/B0FN3NWHH5?tag=sommardahl-20 00:00 Introduction and Episode Teaser 00:31 Meet Ken Deegan: Background and Interests 01:52 Ken's Journey in Tech Leadership 04:46 The Importance of Failing Better 07:26 Creating a Safe Space for Innovation 12:08 Characteristics of a Good Fail 14:42 Human Flourishing Through Failure 18:31 Challenges and Pitfalls in Promoting Failure 23:09 Practical Steps to Help Teams Fail Better 33:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Giving Them a API for Their Brain with Michael Turner
Dec 1000:40:26Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Michael Turner shares his inspiring journey from a children's home to becoming a fractional CTO and Marine Corps veteran. He discusses how he met his wife during a mission trip in Honduras, and the unique life they lead, splitting their time between Tennessee and Honduras. The conversation delves into the importance of leadership and mentoring, with a specific focus on building systems like API for the brain to promote clarity, reduce stress, and enhance team communication. Turner introduces frameworks like the Five Voices and the Health Index to help employees grow both personally and professionally, emphasizing the power of genuine care in leadership. The episode also includes anecdotal experiences, including Turner's humorous kickball mishap, and offers actionable advice for tech leaders to foster human flourishing within their teams. * Michael Turner on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-turner-11615515 * "Can't Hurt Me" by David Goggins - https://www.amazon.com/Cant-Hurt-Me-David-Goggins-audiobook/dp/B07KKP62FW?tag=sommardahl-20 * Website: https://www.miketurner.us/ 00:00 Introduction and Personal Background 01:18 Technical Setup and Initial Challenges 01:56 Meet Mike Turner: Leadership Journey 06:33 Impact of Marine Corps on Leadership 08:27 Books that Shape Leadership 10:51 Confession Time: Embarrassing Mistakes 12:16 The Kickball Incident 17:46 API for the Brain: Concept Introduction 20:27 Implementing the API Framework 22:04 Setting Professional Growth Plans 23:01 Using Trello Boards for Skill Improvement 25:38 The Five Voices Framework 26:42 Understanding Team Dynamics 31:26 Promoting Human Flourishing 36:20 Challenges in Implementing Frameworks 45:40 The Importance of Caring Leadership 47:52 Conclusion and Contact Information
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Getting Them to Talk with Rachel Bland
Nov 2600:48:25Tap to summarizeIn this podcast episode, tech leader Rachel Bland shares insights into fostering effective team communication and collaboration. Described as a 'Coordinator of Chaos,' Rachel emphasizes the importance of clear communication and teamwork in achieving results in software development. She explores the nuances between bugs and features and advocates for creating a culture where team members are encouraged to ask questions and engage in open dialogue. Rachel shares personal experiences and highlights the value of iterative problem-solving, vulnerability, and maintaining a balance between collaboration and focused work. Additionally, the episode delves into strategies for promoting human flourishing within tech teams, emphasizing the significance of transparency and empowering team members. * Rachel Bland on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rkmbland/ * Dare to Lead by Brené Brown - https://www.amazon.com/Dare-Lead-Brave-Conversations-Hearts/dp/0399592520?tag=sommardahl-20 00:00 Introduction to Rachel Bland 00:20 Rachel's Journey into Tech 01:19 The Bug vs. Feature Debate 03:33 The Art of Team Communication 04:26 Impactful Reads and Personal Growth 06:03 Confession Time: Embarrassing Mistakes 08:50 Encouraging Team Conversations 18:32 Building a Culture of Open Communication 22:29 The Importance of Team Collaboration 24:53 Balancing Introversion and Teamwork 25:30 The Value of Iterative Development 26:39 Embracing Estimates and Communication 36:44 The Power of Feedback and Vulnerability 44:04 Innovative Problem Solving 47:47 Encouraging Creativity and Collaboration 50:46 Final Thoughts on Team Dynamics
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Leading Through Consent with Jessica L Katz
Nov 1200:31:08Tap to summarizeIn this episode, organizational development and executive coaching expert Jessica Katz delves into the concept of leading through consent. She explains this management style, which focuses on shifting from power over to power among, fostering a culture of autonomy, and ensuring psychological safety. Jessica shares her journey from IT to agile methodologies and the valuable lessons learned along the way, including the importance of effective communication, listening, and creating a non-retributive environment. The discussion also highlights practical steps for leaders to start building a consent-driven culture and the challenges they may face. Throughout the conversation, various books and methodologies are referenced, providing listeners with additional resources for further exploration. * Jessica L Katz on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeskatz/ * "Cultures and Organizations: Software of the Mind" by Geert HOFSTEDE - https://www.amazon.com/Cultures-Organizations-Software-Mind-Third/dp/0071664181?tag=sommardahl-20 * "Psychological Safety" by Dan Radecki and Leone Hall - https://www.amazon.com/Psychological-Safety-happy-high-performing-people/dp/1732159505?tag=sommardahl-20 * "Nonviolent Communication" by Marshall B. Rosenberg PhD - https://www.amazon.com/Nonviolent-Communication-Language-Life-Changing-Relationships/dp/189200528X?tag=sommardahl-20 * Website - https://www.poly-labor.com/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:33 Jessica's Background and Interests 01:41 Book Recommendations and Insights 03:58 Confession Time: Embarrassing Mistakes 07:15 Leading Through Consent: An Overview 13:52 The Importance of Psychological Safety 15:40 Struggling with Fairness and Esteem 16:25 The Importance of Trust and Belonging 17:15 Psychological Safety and Human Flourishing 18:09 Challenges Leaders Face in Consent-Based Cultures 23:24 Common Pitfalls and Practical Tips for Leaders 26:41 Real-Life Examples of Leading Through Consent 29:47 Practical Advice for Promoting Human Flourishing 32:51 Connecting with Jessica Kaz
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Keeping Purpose Top-of-Mind with Monica Swanson
Oct 2900:50:42Tap to summarizeIn this episode, the host interviews Monica Swanson, a seasoned IT leader with 30 years of global experience. They discuss the importance of keeping the purpose and vision of a business at the forefront for team members to foster flourishing and productivity. Monica shares her career journey, the impact of purpose on team motivation, and actionable strategies for maintaining this focus within teams. She also provides personal anecdotes, industry insights, and practical advice for tech leaders to improve team effectiveness and engagement. The discussion touches on the balance between technical excellence and fulfilling business objectives, highlighting the profound impact of purpose-driven work. * Monica Swanson on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicaroeswanson/ * "The Let Them Theory" by Mel Robbins - https://www.amazon.com/Let-Them-Theory-Life-Changing-Millions/dp/B0DFMZMKFJ?tag=sommardahl-20 * "In On It" by Elisabeth O'Toole - https://www.amazon.com/Adoptive-Parents-Adoption-Relatives-Friends/dp/0982876505?tag=sommardahl-20 * "The Introvert's Edge" by Matthew Pollard - https://www.amazon.com/The-Introverts-Edge-audiobook/dp/B074XKXNQZ?tag=sommardahl-20 * Website: monroebusinesssolutions.com * Email: monica@monroebusinesssolutions.com 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Business 00:31 Meet Monica Swanson 01:22 Monica's Professional Background 02:46 Personal Interests and Hobbies 06:32 Confession Time: Embracing Mistakes 09:21 Keeping Purpose Top of Mind 17:30 The Impact of Purpose on Teams 27:04 The Importance of Grounding Meetings in Purpose 27:26 Interactive Communication and the Power of Stories 29:35 Understanding Customer and Employee Experiences 31:18 Trust and Transparency in Leadership 35:08 The Pitfalls of Micromanagement 44:33 Aligning IT and Business Goals 46:30 Unexpected Career Paths Through Purpose-Driven Work 48:41 Practical Tips for Tech Leaders
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