Inside Stories Podcast
With Dr. Leon Herszon
The Inside Stories video podcast features distinguished professionals, executives, consultants, speakers, and authors sharing practical tips, inspiring success stories, and valuable insights to inform and inspire today’s leaders and innovators. Join us biweekly for new episodes!
Current Episode
Discover the journey of Jeff Zircher, a seasoned project management leader with over 30 years at Caterpillar and insights into evolving PMO strategies. In this episode of “Inside Stories,” Jeff shares his experiences leading a global PMO, the challenges of scaling teams, and his team’s groundbreaking achievement—the PMI Project of the Year Award for a prototype electric mining truck. Explore his thoughts on servant leadership, AI’s future impact on project management, and the power of flexibility in tackling organizational challenges.
Upcoming Episodes
Inside Stories Podcast Episode 21
Susan Croft on Stress, Resilience, and Thriving in a Challenging World
Join this insightful conversation with Susan Croft, a resilience and stress management expert with over 30 years of experience in coaching and training. Susan shares practical strategies for improving well-being, insights into building resilience, and the profound impact of the pandemic on workplace stress. Discover how organizations can support employees’ mental health and explore her perspective on stressors in a rapidly changing world. Susan’s wisdom highlights the power of empathy, visualization techniques, and balanced living to enhance resilience and thrive amidst challenges.
Premieres Tuesday, April 1, 2025, 11:00 AM EDT
Susan Croft
Global Trainer, Coach and Public Speaker, IIL
Inside Stories Podcast Episode 22
Jean-Pierre Bergoend: Global Mobility Projects, Leadership, and Leveraging Technology
Explore the global career of Jean-Pierre Bergoend, Vice President of Project Delivery at Systra, in this captivating episode of “Inside Stories.” Jean-Pierre reflects on his journey from civil engineering to leading large-scale mobility projects worldwide. Discover his insights on adaptability, change management, and integrating cutting-edge technologies like AI into project delivery. With stories of both success and failure, Jean-Pierre highlights the importance of stakeholder collaboration, strategic planning, and embracing complexity in delivering impactful transportation solutions.
Premieres Tuesday, April 15, 2025, 11:00 AM EDT
Jean-Pierre Bergoend
Vice President Project Delivery at SYSTRA
Inside Stories Podcast Episode 23
Dr. Mario Trentim on AI, PMI's Future, Stakeholder Management, and Certifications
Join this insightful conversation with Dr. Leon Herszon and Dr. Mario Trentim, a PMI Board of Directors member, as they discuss the evolving landscape of project management. Mario shares his journey from engineering to project leadership, the impact of AI on project methodologies, and the future of PMI certifications. Discover key insights into stakeholder management, the rise of hybrid project approaches, and the importance of continuous learning. Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or just starting, this episode is packed with valuable knowledge.
Premieres Tuesday, April 29, 2025, 11:00 AM EDT
Dr. Mario Trentim
Speaker, Author, PMI Board of Directors
Past Episodes
Tune in to this enlightening episode of “Inside Stories” as Dr. Leon Herszon chats with Dr. André Barcaui, a renowned educator and AI expert with decades of experience. Together, they explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence in education, corporate training, project management, and beyond. André shares his journey from IT to AI, the importance of personalized learning, and strategies for overcoming resistance to technological change. Discover how AI can enhance productivity, foster creativity, and reshape industries. Don’t miss this insightful discussion!
Tune in to “Inside Stories” podcast with Dr. Leon Herszon as he delves into an insightful conversation with Dr. Diane Hamilton, a renowned curiosity expert and consultant. In this episode, Dr. Hamilton shares her journey from a diverse career in business to becoming a leading voice in curiosity research. Discover how curiosity drives innovation, personal fulfillment, and organizational success. Learn about the four key factors that diminish curiosity and explore strategies to reignite it in both individuals and businesses. Don’t miss this engaging discussion on the power of curiosity!
Join Dr. Leon Herszon on the “Inside Stories” podcast as he interviews Randy Pilling, the Center Director for Acquisition and Program Management at the Defense Acquisition University. Randy shares his extensive career journey, from his early days in the Air Force to leading multinational teams on critical defense projects like the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. Learn about the challenges of training thousands of defense professionals, the impact of AI, and the importance of lifelong learning and leveraging wisdom from experienced leaders. Don’t miss this insightful discussion!
Tune in to the “Inside Stories” podcast with Dr. Leon Herszon as he interviews Tameka Vasquez, a visionary social futurist and founder of The Future Quo. Tameka shares her journey from aspiring journalist to tech industry leader, emphasizing the importance of human-centered thinking in shaping the future. Discover how she helps organizations embrace change, foster creativity, and prepare for the evolving landscape of AI. This insightful conversation explores the intersection of technology, culture, and imagination. Don’t miss this inspiring episode!
Discover the journey of Jim Boland, leader of IBM’s Global Project Management Center of Excellence, on the “Inside Stories” podcast with Dr. Leon Herszon. Jim recounts his path from a startup in Ireland to spearheading IBM’s project management strategies across the globe. Gain insights into the challenges of global expansion, the critical need for staying relevant in today’s fast-paced world, and the game-changing role of generative AI in project management. This episode is a must-listen for lessons in leadership, innovation, and humility. Tune in!
Join Dr. Leon Herszon on the “Inside Stories” podcast as he interviews Max Langosco, a seasoned project management expert with a fascinating global career. From building the first digital network in Peru to navigating AI adoption, Max shares his insights on the evolving challenges organizations face today. He emphasizes the importance of strategy over tactics, the cultural shift needed for AI integration, and the power of stakeholder management. This episode is packed with practical wisdom and stories of real impact.
Tune in to the “Inside Stories” podcast with Dr. Leon Herszon as he engages with Dr. Elissa Farrow, a renowned futurist and strategic consultant. Discover Dr. Farrow’s journey from social science to becoming a leader in organizational adaptation and AI. She shares insights on fostering positive futures, effective governance, and the importance of diversity in project management. Dr. Farrow also discusses the critical challenges organizations face today and offers her foresight on the future impacts of AI and sustainability. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation!
In this episode of “Inside Stories,” Leon Herszon interviews Americo Pinto, a seasoned consultant and managing director of PMO Global Alliance at the Project Management Institute (PMI). Americo shares his journey from founding a successful consulting firm to establishing PMOGA, which was later acquired by PMI. He emphasizes the importance of a customer-centric approach in PMOs, discussing the evolution of PMO Global Awards and the impact of AI on project management. Americo also highlights the significance of trust and collaboration in building successful professional communities. Tune in for insights on leadership, innovation, and the future of PMOs.
Join the “Inside Stories” podcast with Dr. Leon Herszon as he interviews Mathieu Maggi, a strategic program manager at a leading global automotive company. Mathieu shares his journey in managing complex projects and the company’s recent agile transformation. Discover how they overcame challenges, achieved faster time-to-market, and the critical role of mindset and stakeholder engagement in driving success. Mathieu also touches on the evolving impact of AI and the future of the automotive industry. This episode offers valuable insights into effective leadership and innovation during an agile transformation. Don’t miss it!
Join Dr. Leon Herszon as he interviews Judy Umlas, a pioneer in Grateful Leadership and the Power of Acknowledgment. In this episode, Judy shares her inspiring journey, from the motivations that led her to her unique focus to her most significant achievements. She delves into the profound impact of genuine appreciation and recognition in the workplace, offering practical advice on how to implement these practices. Judy also discusses the challenges of embracing heartfelt acknowledgment and how to overcome them, sharing stories that highlight the transformative power of gratitude. Looking forward, she explores the influence of emerging trends and technologies, including AI, on her field. This episode is a must-watch for leaders and professionals seeking to create a more engaged and appreciative organizational culture in today’s evolving environment!
Join Dr. Leon Herszon as he sits down with Rodolfo de Acutis, the leader of the Global PMO, Strategic Programs, and Sustainability at one of the largest fast-moving consumer goods organizations in the world. Rodolfo shares his personal journey, background, and challenges. He shares stories about his role leading a global Project Management Office and key success factors for a PMO that truly adds value. Looking ahead, he explores the impact of AI in today’s environment and it can shape the future of his field. This episode is crucial listening for leaders and project managers determined to navigate today’s complex challenges and drive their teams toward success!
Join this conversation with John Petriano, the Global Head of CPMC PM Oversight Function at Citigroup. In this episode, John shares his career journey, from his motivations to his most significant achievements. He discusses the main challenges facing organizations today, particularly in the financial sector, and offers insights into overcoming these obstacles. John also highlights best practices for project management governance and the importance of staying updated on relevant skills. Additionally, he explores the impact of emerging trends and technologies, including AI, on the future of project management. Highly recommended for leaders and project managers aiming to thrive in today’s fast-evolving landscape!
Join Dr. Leon Herszon as he interviews Cyndi Dionisio, a renowned expert in Project, Program, and Portfolio Management. Gain insights into the common challenges faced by organizations, the key success factors for managing projects, and the less effective strategies to avoid. Cyndi also shares her passion for Hybrid Project Management and discusses the impact of emerging technologies and AI on the field. A valuable episode for leaders and project managers aiming to navigate today’s complexities successfully!
Join Dr. Leon Herszon as he interviews Roy Schilling, an expert in agile transformations and a seasoned consultant. Explore the challenges organizations face during agile transitions, the key elements for success, and the potential pitfalls. Roy also discusses the future of AI in project management and shares success stories from his extensive experience. A must-listen for those interested in modernizing project management practices and embracing innovation!
Join Dr. Leon Herszon on “Inside Stories” as he interviews Kevin Smithwick, Director Global PMO for a large multi-national medical devices company. Explore Kevin’s journey in project management, the challenges of implementing new methodologies, and the key success factors for transformation. Gain valuable insights and practical advice for today’s leaders!
Tune in to “Inside Stories” with Jane Morgan, senior consultant and executive coach. Discover Jane’s journey, her expertise in one of the most crucial skills in today’s world – managing organizational change. An insightful episode filled with practical tips and inspiring success stories!
Join Dr. Leon Herszon as he interviews Dr. Al Zeitoun, Global Leader and author in Strategy Execution, Operational Excellence, Organizational Development, Sustainable Transformations, and Program Management. Explore insights on organizational strategy, innovation, Artificial Intelligence, and effective program management in one of the largest global multi-industry companies. A must-listen for aspiring leaders and innovators!
Discover the journey of Dr. Ed Hoffman, former NASA Chief Knowledge Officer, Columbia professor, and author as he shares his insights on leadership, managing knowledge, people and projects, and the future of work. He also shares the key findings from his most recent book. Tune in for an inspiring and enlightening episode on “Inside Stories.”
