Fixing Management

When metrics backfire, and how well-intentioned goals create cheating, corner-cutting, fake success, and cultural decay. Learn how to watch out from measurements that drive dashboard illusions instead of real outcomes. Check out: How to lie with statistics - Darrell Huff Spurious Correlations This is how easy it is to lie with statistics - Zach Star (Video) Thinking, Fast and Slow - Kahneman

In this episode, we explore common leadership mistakes many managers unknowingly repeat,  from ridiculing ideas and micromanaging estimation, to neglecting feedback and promoting via unclear criteria. Learn why these patterns kill trust and motivation, and discover how to lead with clarity, respect and real leadership.

In this episode, I challenges the ritual of estimating work in software teams. I break down why estimations are usually wasted effort, how they create an illusion of control without adding clarity, and explain how a #NoEstimates approach combined with small work units, value-focused planning and honesty can make teams faster, more agile, and truly outcome-driven.

In this episode, we explore pair-programming as a powerful practice for delivering quality, speeding up development, and building resilient, knowledgeable engineering teams. Learn how pairing works, and how to introduce it effectively to transform your team into excellence.

Learn the gradual steps to effectively identify and manage underperformance in individuals and teams, turning difficult conversations into growth and stronger results.

Learn the difference between helpful concern and harmful worry, why many common stress strategies fail, and practical techniques to take control of stress and improve your well-being and performance.

Familiar with UX and CX? Learn what Management Experience - MX™ is, how your team actually experiences you as a manager, and how improving MX boosts both results and retention. Managing deserves the same respect as any professional craft. Learn what practicing good management really means and how leaders can build sustainable, long-lasting impact through intentional growth and reflection.

In this episode, we dig into what really makes a workplace toxic, from micromanagement and favoritism to disrespect, burnout, and systemic dysfunction. Learn the warning signs, the human and business cost, and what you can do as a manager or employee to protect yourself or build a healthy team culture instead.

In this episode, we dive into the popular idea that organizations can eliminate managers  and explain why it rarely works. Learn what good managers actually do, why they matter, and how you can step up as a manager who adds real value instead of just holding a title.

In this episode, we break down how managers can treat leadership as a skill that requires deliberate practice. Learn how to pick the right focus, structure meaningful repetitions, gather real-world feedback outside work, in low risk and pressure environments.

In this episode, learn why workplace cynicism quietly destroys trust and performance, how to recognize it in your team, and practical steps managers can take to stop it and build a healthier, more honest culture. Turn sarcasm into straight talk and stronger relationships.

In this episode, we break down exactly how to build a resume and cover letter that consistently get recruiters’ attention. Learn how to structure your resume, write compelling accomplishments, avoid common mistakes, and craft cover letters that differentiate you. A must-listen for any professional navigating a competitive job market.

In this episode, we dive into one of the most practical frameworks for improving communication: DiSC . You will learn: Why some people drive you crazy What to do about it You’ll learn how to recognize different styles, adapt your message so it actually lands, and prevent the misunderstandings.  We break down each DiSC type, how they prefer to receive information, and how to tailor feedback, decisi...

In this episode, we dive into the core insights from The First 90 Days: the ultimate playbook for leaders stepping into a new role. You’ll learn the transition traps to avoid, the mindsets that accelerate success, and the practical strategies to quickly build credibility, diagnose your new environment, secure early wins, and align your team with the broader mission. Whether you’re moving into a ne...

Many companies use OKRs, but few use them well. In this episode, which is part two on the topic, we go through additional 20 mistakes that kill OKRs or reduce their effectiveness. No need to be perfect, but to be aware to be more effectiveness. Check out: High Output Management Measure What Matters Radical Focus How to Measure Anything

Many companies use OKRs, but few use them well. In this episode, which is part one on the topic, we go through 20 mistakes that kill OKRs or reduce their effectiveness. No need to be perfect, but to be aware to be more effectiveness. Check out: ⁠ High Output Management ⁠ ⁠ Measure What Matters ⁠ ⁠ Radical Focus ⁠ ⁠ How to Measure Anything ⁠

OKRs are easy to misunderstand and powerful to master. In this episode, we unpack what makes Objectives and Key Results so beneficial: how to define them, measure progress, and avoid common traps. You’ll learn the difference between outputs and outcomes, how to write inspiring and measurable goals, and how to use OKRs to build alignment and engagement across your team. Perfect for managers and lea...

The way your team uses calendars reveals more about your culture than you think. In this episode, we share why poor calendar habits damage trust and waste time, and naturally how to fix them. Learn how to set clear working hours, promote transparency, and build a respectful culture around time.

Most meetings drain energy instead of creating value, but they don’t have to. In this episode, we break down what goes wrong in typical meetings and share simple, powerful habits to fix them to make every minute count. If you lead meetings, this one’s for you.

Most managers think onboarding is HR’s job, only that it’s not. In this episode, we break down how great managers turn new hires into productive, engaged team members through structure, communication, and care. Learn how to design onboarding that builds trust, accelerates effectiveness, and keeps your people longer.

Many managers treat hiring as a chore, or worse, outsource it to HR. In this episode we explain why that’s a dangerous mistake and walk you through a practical approach to hiring. Learn how to design a process that tests what truly matters, and avoids costly mis-hires. Packed with actionable insights you can use in your next interview.

Ever wondered why some people are so easy to talk to and why others drive you crazy? In this episode, we break down the DiSC communication model and shows how understanding behavior preferences can transform effectiveness. You’ll learn how to identify your team members’ communication preferences, adapt your approach to each style, and build stronger, clearer, and more productive relationships. Che...

In this episode, discover how to transform performance reviews from dreaded formalities into powerful tools for growth and team success. Learn why ongoing feedback, real-time journaling, and thoughtful preparation are key to effective reviews. Get actionable tips on conducting review meetings that build trust, clarify expectations, and empower your direct reports to excel.  Related episodes:  2. F...

In this episode I share the personal story behind Fixing Management: why I decided to write a book and start this podcast and what it’s all about. You’ll hear how Fixing Management aims to make leadership clear, practical, and even enjoyable. I also offer a reflection framework for every episode. Whether you’re a new manager or a seasoned one, this episode invites you to start your journey toward...

Managers are often told to “motivate their teams” — as if motivation is something you can sprinkle like fairy dust or buy with a bonus. But it doesn’t work that way. In this episode, we break down why traditional motivation tactics fail — and what truly drives people to do great work. Through a story about a well-meaning manager whose bonus plan backfires, you’ll learn about intrinsic motivation,...