In this episode, we sit down with Jessica Wilson, a seasoned expert in scheduling and project management within the aerospace and defense industry. With extensive experience at leading companies like Northrop Grumman and Honeywell, Jessica specializes in Department of Defense contracts, earned value management, and integrated master schedules. Over the course of her career, she’s tackled complex scheduling issues, compliance demands, and reporting challenges in the aerospace and defense space. Jessica shares how she got started in the industry and offers her perspective on how technology is transforming scheduling and earned value management. She also discusses why IPMDAR is such a hot topic and how tools and processes have changed over the past decade. Tune in to hear valuable lessons she’s learned and gain insights into overcoming the unique challenges faced in this highly regulated and demanding industry. Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn Thanks for listening to the Project Management Paradise Podcast. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. Stay tuned for more episodes where we bring you the latest insights from industry leaders. Bonus Learn how software can combat 8 headaches keeping PMOs in the aerospace & defense sector awake at night by accessing a complimentary copy at corasystems.com/defensesoft

In this episode, we sit down with Carol Cone, a trailblazer in the purpose movement with over 35 years of experience. Carol currently leads Carol Cone ON PURPOSE (CCOP), dedicated to advancing purpose strategies for corporations, brands, nonprofits, and professionals worldwide. She shares insights from her journey, starting with the founding of Cone Inc., the first and largest social impact agency, through her leadership roles at Omnicom and Edelman, to establishing CCOP and the Purpose Collaborative, a global network of purpose-driven firms. Carol discusses how she became an expert in corporate culture and leadership, emphasizing the importance of a company’s purpose and how to approach it effectively. Join us as Carol reveals the secrets of good corporate leadership, traits to be wary of in leaders, and how transparency afforded by the internet has transformed the work environment. She also explains the importance of viewing suppliers as partners and shares the most valuable piece of advice she has received in her career, offering listeners actionable insights to apply in their own professional journeys. Connect with Carol on LinkedIn Listen to the Purpose 360 podcast  Thanks for listening to the Project Management Paradise Podcast. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. Stay tuned for more episodes where we bring you the latest insights from industry leaders. Bonus Learn the keys to effective change management by accessing a complimentary copy at corasystems.com/changeguide

In this episode, we explore the fascinating career of Steve Kershaw, the Global Government Defense Leader for PwC. Steve shares his unique journey from serving as a submariner in the Royal Navy for 21 years to leading global defence strategies at PwC. He provides captivating insights into life in a submarine, including how submariners maintain physical fitness and the critical importance of controlling noise. These experiences have significantly influenced his meticulous approach to program management in the aerospace and defense (A&D) sector. Steve discusses the substantial changes in programme management over the past 15-20 years, emphasizing the impact of digitization. He addresses the challenges of digitizing program development and the strategies to overcome them, highlighting the importance of ROI in transformation programs and how benefits are measured. Steve also explains the tangible advantages PwC has gained through using Cora’s platform for program management. Looking ahead, he predicts significant technological advancements and transformative changes in the A&D sector. Additionally, Steve reflects on the most valuable career advice he has received, offering practical wisdom that has guided his professional journey. This episode is packed with expert insights and thought-provoking reflections on the past, present, and future of program management and digitization in the defense sector. Connect with Steve Kershaw on LinkedIn Thanks for listening to the Project Management Paradise Podcast. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. Stay tuned for more episodes where we bring you the latest insights from industry leaders. Bonus Learn how software can combat 8 headaches keeping PMOs in the aerospace & defense sector awake at night by accessing a complimentary copy at corasystems.com/defensesoft

Today, we are thrilled to have Rebecca Zung, a renowned conflict resolution specialist and bestselling author, as our guest. Rebecca has written extensively on corporate and social themes, including her latest USA Today bestseller, "SLAY the Bully: How to Negotiate with a Narcissist and Win." In this episode, we dive into "How to Outsmart a Narcissist in a High-Conflict Situation." Join us as Rebecca shares her journey to becoming an expert in conflict resolution. She defines what a narcissist is and reveals the keys to negotiating effectively with them. Learn how to handle narcissists who don’t respond to logic and discover practical strategies to prevent and minimize bullying in the workplace. Rebecca also discusses the most important piece of advice she has received in her career and how it has shaped her approach to conflict resolution. Whether you're managing complex projects or navigating personal relationships, Rebecca’s insights will equip you with the tools to succeed. Tune in to Project Management Paradise and gain valuable knowledge from Rebecca Zung on outsmarting narcissists and mastering high-conflict negotiations. Follow Rebecca on: YouTube  Instagram  Rebecca's new book "SLAY the Bully: How to Negotiate with a Narcissist and Win" can be found here   BONUS! Access a complimentary guidebook, Empowering Strategy Realization Using OKRs, at https://corasystems.com/guidebooks/free-okr-guide-empowering-strategy-realization-using-okrs/

Join us as we explore digital transformation in aerospace and defense with Nils Herzberg, a seasoned business leader with over 35 years of experience, primarily at SAP. Key Points: Defining Digital Transformation: Nils explains what digital transformation means for aerospace and defense, highlighting its importance for modernization and efficiency. The Why Behind It: Discover the strategic reasons driving organizations to embark on digital transformation programs, as explained by Nils. Avoiding Pitfalls: Nils shares common pitfalls to watch out for during a digital transformation journey and offers practical advice to navigate them successfully. Tips for Success: Learn three actionable tips for planning and executing a digital transformation program, based on Nils's extensive experience. Sectoral Differences: Understand how digital transformation varies across industries and gain insights into its unique challenges in aerospace and defense compared to other sectors. PPM & ERP Systems: Nils explains the importance of Project Portfolio Management (PPM) alongside Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, especially for CEOs unfamiliar with PPM. Real-Time Data in A&D: Explore the significance of near real-time data for progress tracking in aerospace and defense, and how it enhances decision-making. Career Advice: Nils shares the most valuable advice he's received and how it shaped his career, offering insights for professionals at all levels.

In this episode of the Project Management Paradise podcast, special guest host Pamela Sinclair talks with the Associate Director of Digital Portfolio Management Office for Queensland University of Technology (QUT) about the implementation of Cora Systems' project and portfolio management solution at QUT. The guest details the benefits of Cora's portfolio management capabilities, reporting functionality, and user-friendly interface. They highlight the significant time and resource savings achieved since implementing Cora, with streamlined reporting processes and increased user adoption. Key Highlights: • Accidental project management career path.  • Tech careers and project management at Queensland University of Technology. • Digital transformation and project management at a university. • Digital transformation and PPM tool challenges at a university. • Selecting a project management tool and its benefits. • Using a PPM tool to streamline project management processes. • Implementing a project management tool. • Implementing a new product at a university. • Core Project Management tool implementation.   Learn how to achieve best practice SPM in the delivery of public projects by accessing a complimentary copy at https://www.corasystems.com/publicspm

In this episode of Project Management Paradise, host Aaron Murphy engages in a deep dive with Dr. Randy Ross, CEO of Remarkable and bestselling author, exploring the essence of corporate culture, employee engagement, and navigating challenging times in the workplace. Dr. Ross shares invaluable insights on fostering positive work environments, enhancing employee happiness, and addressing toxic elements within organizations.   Key Highlights: ●      00:23 - Introduction and background to the guest Dr. Randy Ross ●      04:52 - The Silent Killer ●      07:17 - Navigating VUCA ●      12:48 - Investing in People ●      15:28 - Building Relationally Rich Environments ●      16:12 - Creating a Relationally Rich Environment ●      16:30 - Embracing Feedback ●      21:59 - Axiology in Practice ●      23:01 - Passion, Strengths, and Problem-Solving ●      30:13 - Purpose-Driven Business   This episode serves as an engaging discussion on the importance of renewable energy and how it can positively impact individuals, communities, and the environment.    Learn More About Dr. Randy Ross here Explore Dr. Randy Ross' authored works here

In this episode of the Project Management Paradise podcast, host Aaron Murphy is joined by Neal Frick, a leadership guru and author, to explore the topic of empathetic leadership. Neil shares insights into the definition of empathetic leadership, common misconceptions, and the keys to successful implementation. He emphasizes transparency, trust, active listening, and logical decision-making as crucial elements. Neil also discusses the return on investment (ROI) of empathetic leadership, highlighting its impact on effort, productivity, and customer relations. Key Highlights: ●      00:23 - Introduction to Neal Frick and Empathy in leadership ●      00:57 - Neal’s Background and Journey to Empathy to Leadership ●      02:33 - Empathetic Leadership ●      07:50 - Trust and Listening in Empathetic Leadership ●      08:14 - Empathy and Sympathy, Underlining the Need for Setting Boundaries ●      09:23 - Emotional Connections Affected Decision-Making ●      10:13 - Explores Return on Investment (ROI) in Empathetic Leadership ●      11:10 - Empathetic Leadership Boosts Effort and Productivity ●      11:50 - Empathetic Leadership on Customer Satisfaction, Marketing, and Sales ●      12:47 - ROI to the Keys of Success: Trust and Listening ●      15:22 - Field of Empathetic Leadership   Learn More About Neal Frick here   Bonus Learn the keys to effective “change management” by accessing a complimentary copy at corasystems.com/changeguide

In this episode, we're joined by Paul Gill, who has spent over eight years at PayPal as a program manager.   Paul shares his experiences and tips for successfully developing cross-functional teams and managing company strategy.  Key Highlights:  Introduction to Paul Gill and program management within business operations  Why good ideas require good execution  Definition of cross-functional teams Definition of Agile and adaptability in project management  How effective diverse, cross-functional teams can be a competitive advantage  Why is corporate culture and collaboration important to successful project execution Connect with Paul on LinkedIn here Bonus Access a complimentary guidebook, Empowering Strategy Realization Using OKRs, at corasystems.com/okrguide

In this episode, we're joined by Lauren C. Ayers, former director of program analysis and business transformation for the deputy assistant secretary of the U.S. Navy.   Lauren shares her experiences and learnings for successful change transformation, in particular in the area of acquisition and procurement.      Key Highlights:  Introduction to Lauren C. Ayers and business transformation in mega projects Strategic advice for efficient procurement and maintenance of military hardware  How best to work in a team environment  Skills for negotiating, contract management and future planning How to navigate DCMA and GovCon processes  Tips for how to effectively communicate with multiple stakeholders    Bonus Learn how software can combat 8 headaches keeping PMOs in the aerospace & defense sector awake at night by accessing a complimentary copy at corasystems.com/defensesoft

This episode of The Project Management Paradise Podcast is the part of a unique limited series called "Unlocking Project Success with Professor John McGrath”. In this episode, we're joined by Hardeep Kaur, a Global Director – Operational Excellence, Strategy, Transformation, Change Management and Communications, at Merck, with over 25 years’ experience in Pharmaceutical Operations and General Management.  Hardeep shares her experience and advice for successful change and transformation, in particular in the area of strategy execution.   Key Highlights:  Introduction to Hardeep Kaur and change management The difference between change and transformation Misconceptions about the role of the project sponsor and their importance to project success  Tips for improving stakeholder communication 3 lessons learned for successful execution of change Agility and how to make your organization change ready  Connect with Hardeep on LinkedIn here Bonus Learn the keys to effective “digital transformation” by accessing a complimentary guidebook at corasystems.com/transformationguide

This episode of The Project Management Paradise Podcast is the part of a unique limited series called "Unlocking Project Success with Professor John McGrath”. In this episode, we're joined by Carl Bernie, an Operations Director with DPS Group with extensive KAM, project management and commercial experience on global semi-conductor mega construction projects.    Carl shares his experience in dealing with project fatigue in complex projects. He discusses his journey into the world of project management, which began in the 1990s, and today entails managing multi-year projects with budgets of billions of euro.     Carl explores how large, complex projects differ from more traditional projects, including initiation, execution, delivery and project close-out.      Key Highlights:  ●      Introduction to Carl Bernie and mega projects  ●      Agile, iterative approaches to project execution  ●      Diversity in project teams and creating a team dynamic   ●      Traits for a good project manager  ●      Essence, experience and pitfalls of project fatigue   ●      Effects of global events – including supply chain stresses, Brexit, Covid, remote working – on project management capabilities     Connect with Carl on LinkedIn here

In this episode, we're joined by Pamela Ann Sinclair, a training specialist for Cora Systems and change management expert, who shares her expertise in change management preparation. Pamela discusses her journey into the world of change management, highlighting its increasing relevance in project management over the past decade. She emphasizes the pivotal role of change management in successful project execution and provides a practical checklist of industry best-practices to ensure smooth transitions. Pamela also explores common pitfalls in change management based on her extensive experience, offering insights on how to avoid them. Key Highlights: ●      00:58 - Introduction to Pam Sinclair and Change Management ●      02:30 - Change Management: A Marketing Buzzword ●      05:36 - Pam on the Basics of Change Management ●      08:13 - The Two Biggest Pitfalls ●      14:58 - Pam’s Key Learning Experience ●      17:38 - Importance of Change on People Connect with Pamela on LinkedIn here Bonus Learn the keys to effective change management by accessing a complimentary copy at www.corasystems.com/changeguide

In this episode, Aaron Murphy hosts Jeremiah Broz, the CEO and founder of Energy Advantage Roof and Solar, to delve into how renewable energy is reshaping our world. Jeremiah's commitment to sustainability and renewable energy is transforming both the industry and the communities he serves.   Key Highlights: ●      00:54 - Introduction to Jeremiah Broz and Renewable Energy ●      01:07 - Jeremiah's Background and Journey to Renewable Energy ●      02:00 - The Birth of Energy Advantage ●      05:30 - The Long-Term Worth of Switching to Solar ●      09:57 - Metrics for Comparing Energy Sources ●      12:08 - The Transition from Fossil Fuels to Renewables ●      13:52 - Addressing Fears and Concerns about Solar Adoption ●      16:29 - Monetary Benefits and Incentives of Solar Energy ●      17:00 - Controlling Energy Costs and Time-of-Use Rates ●      18:58 - Empowerment and Core Values ●      19:23 - Navigating Energy Banking and Net Metering ●      20:39 - Connecting with Energy Advantage This episode serves as an engaging discussion on the importance of renewable energy and how it can positively impact individuals, communities, and the environment. Learn More About Jeremiah Broz here or visit his website:https://www.yourenergyadvantage.com/ Bonus Find out how grid modernization can facilitate decarbonizing of the energy sector by accessing a complimentary copy at corasystems.com/gridmodernization

In this episode, Aaron Murphy discusses leadership skills with guest Pat D'Amico, a leadership expert and CEO of About-Face Development. Pat's military background informs his insights on leadership. He talks about how important it is for leaders to deal with their own stress, become more self-aware, and learn how to coach. They also talk about how important mentorship is, what the most common reasons are for people to quit their jobs, and why leaders need to keep learning. The conversation touches on the effects of tools for learning from a distance, and it ends by pointing out that coaching and hiring skills are important leadership skills. Pat's contact information is given so that you can get in touch with him. Listen to the episode to learn more! Important Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:23 - Who Is Our Guest For Today? 05:12 - Being Aware Of Your Emotion 06:09 - Having A Mentor Is Important 07:06 - Why Are People Leaving Their Jobs? 07:56 - Manager's Role in Job Losses 08:30 - Lack Of Development 08:53 - How To Retain People 13:01 - The Importance Of Keeping Good Managers 16:35 - The Adaption Of Asynchronous E-Learning   18:26 - Top Three Leadership Skills Most People And Organizations Lack    Learn More About Pat D'Amico https://aboutfacedevelopment.com/about-1 https://www.linkedin.com/in/patjdamico/   Bonus Learn the keys to effective “digital transformation” by accessing a complimentary guidebook at corasystems.com/transformationguide

In this episode, Brian Jackson, Director of Project Management and Third Party Governance at Centennial Bank, shares his 47-year journey in the banking industry, witnessing the incredible transformation from manual operations to today's digital marvels. He discusses the importance of contractual compliance in the banking sector and how Centennial Bank adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling remote work. They explore the impact of digital transformation on modern banks, including real-time payments like FedNow. Tune in for valuable insights and inspiring stories. Important Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:23 – Brian’s background 02:30 - Banking Through the Decades 06:15 - Banking's Unstoppable Technological Journey 08:20 - Time-Saving, Compliance Crucial, Pandemic Impact 11:10 - Revolutionizing the Post-COVID Workplace 15:01 - Reach Out To Brian!   Connect with Brian on LinkedIn here Or email Brian at BJackson@my100bank.com   Bonus Learn the keys to effective “digital transformation” by accessing a complimentary guidebook at corasystems.com/transformationguide

In this episode of the Project Management Paradise podcast, Aaron Murphy interviews Dr. Barry Devereux, an expert in artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics. Dr. Devereux discusses his background in cognitive science and his research on natural language processing. He explains that AI has become a hot topic due to the development of chatbots like ChatGPT, which are intuitive and easy to use. Deep learning, a type of machine learning that uses neural network models, has greatly contributed to the success of AI systems. Dr. Devereux predicts that AI will become increasingly integrated into everyday life and professional work, with applications in areas like synthetic media generation. He also highlights the advantages of AI, including increased productivity and economic efficiency. Learn more by listening to this episode! Important Timestamps: ●      00:00 - Introduction ●      00:27 - Who Is Dr. Barry Devereux? ●      03:23 - Why Is AI Such A Hot Topic Nowadays? ●      08:18 - What Is Natural Language Processing? ●      12:26 - AI In The Next Five Years ●      15:00 - The Advantages Of AI ●      18:30 - The Disadvantages Of AI   Learn More About Dr. Barry Devereaux https://pure.qub.ac.uk/en/persons/barry-devereux Bonus Learn about the magic of digital twins by accessing a complimentary guidebook at corasystems.com/digitaltwins

Today, we are talking with Jessica Rivard, a senior business analyst at Cora Systems, and previously she worked at Fincantieri Marine Group, where she spent over 15 years working in the defense sector in a range of roles, including senior corporate applications manager and both as a business and systems analyst. We discuss the increasing concern over cybersecurity threats from actors like China and North Korea, the importance of competitiveness and innovation in the defense space, and the use of AI in areas such as virtual reality simulations and data analysis. Jessica also highlights the significance of adhering to earned value management techniques and the challenges faced by the industry, including the longer product life cycles caused by factors like knowledge loss and resource demand. Overall, the podcast emphasizes the need for organizations to stay updated, comply with regulations, and leverage technological advancements to address industry challenges effectively. Important Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 03:28 - The critical trend in the aerospace and defense industry 05:47 - The process on Cybersecurity 07:17 - Strengthening Cybersecurity 07:59 - AI in Aerospace 11:29 - Importance of getting more information 11:51 - Earned Value Management 15:01 - The product life cycle analysis 21:29 - Management is key Connect with Jessica Rivard Email: jrivard@corasystems.com Bonus Jessica explores this topic in more detail in her guide at https://corasystems.com/guidebook/aerospace-defense-projects-8-headaches-keeping-your-pmo-awake-at-night/

Today, we are talking with LaRae Quy, an undercover counterintelligence agent for the FBI for 24 years, and now she’s an author. In this episode, we will discuss mental toughness and how it can be developed over time. We will also look at some examples of mental toughness. We will get to know LaRae’s thoughts on resilience and how to gain good values. Is it truly necessary to have a good understanding of oneself? This and more questions will be answered as we go along with the episode! 00:00 - Introduction00:21 - Who is LaRae Quy? 03:54 - Mental toughness is something you develop 05:18 - Tips on developing mental toughness 08:08 - What is resilience? 10:39 - Values in mental toughness13:39 - Source of good values 15:32 - Responding to failure 20:56 - Mental toughness is the same for men and women 22:40 - The importance of self-awareness25:15 - How to be self-aware?   Connect with LaRae Quy LinkedIn: LaRae Quy Website: https://laraequy.com/ Twitter: @LaRaeQuy   Bonus Access a complimentary guidebook, Empowering Strategy Realization Using OKRs, at corasystems.com/okrguide

In this episode, we speak with Patti Viri-Cruz, the Director of PT Portfolio, Design, and Construction at Genentech. Patti is a project management professional who has built processes and programs from the ground up, putting the business's needs first. In this episode, we'll talk about diversity and how it's important for running a group or team. How does Patti get the most out of what each team member's strength? Is it through inspiration? We'll also find out what is project management's role in the biotech sector and how the Cora software solution has helped to streamline a global corporation like Genentech and its sister companies around the world. Important Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction01:01 - Who is Patti Viri-Cruz? 01:38 - Diversity in a nutshell 02:48 - Patti’s fun experiment with Aaron 06:56 - Maximizing team performance10:11 - The importance of leading by example 12:15 - Pandemic and post-pandemic comparison 15:57 - Project management in biotech24:00 - How did Cora Systems help Genentech?  Connect with Patti Viri-Cruz here Bonus Learn how to accelerate your product development by downloading a complimentary guidebook at corasystems.com/pharmaspeed