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Leadership

I write about my journey from technical person to a leader, covering following topic within category Leadership: leadership development, leadership skills, management techniques, team building, communication skills, decision-making, problem-solving, time management, strategic planning, employee engagement, conflict resolution and remote work.

How I became the IT guy thanks to green men and a hockey stick

From Linux Admin to People Engineer: My Professional Journey

From accidentally infuriating my brother by installing Linux on his computer to leading distributed teams across continents, my journey in technology has been anything but conventional. What began as curiosity about simple network pings evolved into a lifelong passion for connection—both digital and human. Through data centers in the UK, acquisitions by tech giants, and the global shift to remote work, I’ve transformed from a command-line Linux administrator to what I now call a “people engineer.” Join me as I share the pivotal moments, hard-earned lessons, and unexpected detours that shaped my path from technical enthusiast to leadership, including that one time when one of my colleagues dramatically dove across a Nando’s table to save me from volcano-level spicy chicken.

Read More »From Linux Admin to People Engineer: My Professional Journey
My First 90 Days - What I Learned the Hard Way

My First 90 Days – What I Learned the Hard Way

If you’ve ever transitioned into a leadership role, you know how tough those first few months can be. You step in full of ideas and excitement, but reality hits fast. Today, I want to share my personal story—what I expected, what actually happened, the struggles I faced, and the lessons I learned the hard way.

Before we get started, if you haven’t yet, I highly recommend checking out my previous episode, “The First 90 Days – Leadership Framework for Success.” In that episode, I covered the structured framework for navigating the first three months in leadership. Today’s episode will be much more personal—what I personally learned through trial and error.

Whether you’re about to take on your first leadership role or just want to reflect on your own journey, this episode is packed with real experiences, honest reflections, and some advice I wish I had when I started.

Grab your coffee, get comfortable, and let’s dive in!

Read More »My First 90 Days – What I Learned the Hard Way
Invisible Filters - Unmasking Unconscious Bias in Leadership

Invisible Filters – Unmasking Unconscious Bias in Leadership

Today, we’re talking about something that affects all of us, whether we realize it or not—unconscious bias. Now, I know what you’re thinking: ‘I’m not biased!’ But here’s the thing—unconscious bias isn’t about being a bad person. It’s about how our brains are wired to process the world around us. Think of it like making coffee. Just like a coffee filter lets some things through and holds others back, our brains filter information constantly—deciding who belongs in our ‘in-group’ and who doesn’t. And sometimes, those filters can lead us astray. In this episode, we’ll explore what unconscious bias is, how it affects our decisions—especially as leaders—and most importantly, what we can do about it. So grab your coffee, and let’s dive in to unmasking unconscious bias in leadership!

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What is the RACI Model: Clearer Roles, Better Collaboration in Team Projects

What is the RACI Model: Clearer Roles, Better Collaboration in Team Projects

Today, we’re diving into a simple yet incredibly powerful framework for improving team collaboration: the RACI model. Now, if you’ve ever worked on a team project – whether it’s building software, launching a product, or even planning an event – you’ve probably experienced moments of confusion around roles and responsibilities. You might have wondered, “Wait, who’s actually responsible for this task?” or “Who’s making the final decision here?” That’s exactly what the RACI model is all about.

Read More »What is the RACI Model: Clearer Roles, Better Collaboration in Team Projects
Technical and Management Debt

How Technical and Management Debt Sabotage Organizational Success

Today we’re exploring a topic that affects organizations of all sizes and industries: The Debt Dilemma. Now, when I say ‘debt,’ I’m not just talking about financial debt. In the world of business and technology, we encounter two other crucial forms: technical debt and management debt. These hidden liabilities can silently erode your organization’s efficiency, morale, and bottom line.

Read More »How Technical and Management Debt Sabotage Organizational Success
Introverts vs. Extroverts: Thriving in a Spectrum of Strengths

Introverts vs. Extroverts: Thriving in a Spectrum of Strengths

In the world of leadership and collaboration, understanding the nuances between introversion and extroversion is essential. These two personality types are often presented as opposites, but the reality is far more nuanced. Most people aren’t purely introverted or extroverted; rather, they fall somewhere along a spectrum, with characteristics of both. For leaders, knowing how to harness the strengths of both introverts and extroverts can lead to a more inclusive, balanced, and effective team.

In this post, we’ll explore practical tips for introverts to leverage their unique qualities, as well as insights for extroverts to help create an environment where introverts feel empowered. Plus, we’ll look at how to build an inclusive environment that celebrates the strengths of both personality types.

Read More »Introverts vs. Extroverts: Thriving in a Spectrum of Strengths
Stages of Engineering Leadership

The Three Stages of Engineering Leadership: How to Evolve as a Leader

Leadership in engineering isn’t static—it evolves as you grow, your teams expand, and the organizational stakes rise. Understanding the different stages of engineering leadership is crucial. What makes you successful as a leader in the beginning of your journey might hold you back as you progress. To truly thrive, you must adapt, learn, and let go of old habits to embrace new challenges.

In this post, we’ll explore the three stages of engineering leadership:

  1. Leading a Small, Autonomous Team
  2. Collaborating with Other Teams
  3. Leading an Organization

We’ll also dive into the skills required at each stage, the common pitfalls, and the mindset shifts needed to excel. Whether you’re just starting out or already leading at the organizational level, understanding these stages will help you navigate your leadership journey more effectively.

Read More »The Three Stages of Engineering Leadership: How to Evolve as a Leader
Digital Nomad Lifestyle

The Digital Nomad Lifestyle: Can Leaders Thrive on the Move?

Imagine this: You’re sipping coffee at a seaside café in Spain, laptop open, warm breeze in your hair, and your team is just a video call away. Or perhaps you’re typing away at a cozy café in the mountains of Switzerland, the smell of freshly ground coffee filling the air as you prepare for a presentation. Welcome to the digital nomad lifestyle.

The idea of working remotely while exploring the world has a magnetic appeal, especially if you’re a coffee connoisseurs with a thirst for adventure. For leaders and aspiring leaders, the digital nomad life offers a unique opportunity to blend travel, personal growth, and professional productivity. But before you start packing your bags, it’s essential to understand what this lifestyle truly entails.

In this guide, I’ll break down the steps and considerations for becoming a digital nomad, so you can make a confident, informed decision. Grab your coffee, and let’s dive in!

Read More »The Digital Nomad Lifestyle: Can Leaders Thrive on the Move?