Best Christopher Acker Podcasts (2025)

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#151: What AI Is Really Delivering (and What It’s Not) with Evan Leybourn & Christopher Morales 42:15

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19h ago42:15

42:15

Is AI underdelivering? Or are we asking the wrong questions? This episode breaks down what actually leads to business ROI with AI (and no, it’s not more automation). Overview What if AI isn’t the silver bullet—yet—but the bottleneck is human, not technical? In this episode, Brian Milner chats with Evan Leybourn and Christopher Morales of the Busine…

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#150: What “1 Billion” Scrum Classes Taught Us About Team Culture (and Captain America) with Cort Sharp & Laura Kendrick 46:11

8d ago46:11

46:11

Laura Kendrick and Cort Sharp hijack the mic to share what it’s really like behind the scenes at Mountain Goat. From Zoom bloopers to unexpected team bonding, they unpack how a fully remote team built a thriving, human-centered workplace. Overview In this special takeover episode, Laura Kendrick and Cort Sharp pull back the curtain on what goes int…

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#149: How Agile Action Drives Strategy with Boris Gloger 32:30

15d ago32:30

32:30

What does it really mean to have a bias toward action and how do you build that into your culture without skipping strategy? Boris Gloger joins Brian Milner for a deep dive on experimentation, leadership, and the difference between tactical work and true strategic thinking. Overview In this conversation, Brian welcomes longtime Scrum pioneer, consu…

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#148: What It Really Takes to Lead Change That Sticks with Sherri Robbins 48:33

22d ago48:33

48:33

Can you lead meaningful change without burning people out—or yourself? Sherri Robbins thinks so, and she’s sharing how she’s done it in high-stakes, high-complexity environments (with her sanity intact). Overview In this episode, Sherri Robbins joins Scott Dunn to talk about what it actually takes to lead large-scale change across teams, department…

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#147: The Power of Quiet Influence with Casey Sinnema 37:23

29d ago37:23

37:23

How do you lead change when you’re not the boss? Casey Sinnema shares what it takes to build trust, influence outcomes, and make Monday feel a little less dreadful. Overview What happens when you give a self-proclaimed utility player the freedom to poke holes in broken systems and lead cross-functional change without official authority? In this epi…

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#146: Agile Leadership That Actually Works with Brendan Wovchko 50:29

1M ago50:29

50:29

What does it look like to lead a 300-person software org inside a 1,000-person company—and still stay focused on people first? Brendan Wovchko shares what he's learned about leadership, agility, and building a culture that actually works. Overview Brendan Wovchko, CTO at Ramsey Solutions, joins Scott Dunn to talk about what it really takes to lead …

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#145: How to Lead Without Burning Out (or Burning Bridges) with Ginger Boyll 41:30

1M ago41:30

41:30

How do you grow a remote-first team from 30 to over 100 while still being voted a "great place to work"? Ginger Boyll says it’s part Agile mindset, part trust, and part Dungeons & Dragons—and we’re not arguing. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, guest host Scott Dunn sits down with Ginger Boyll, Director of Client Experience at …

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#144: How Modern Agile Teams Predict the Unpredictable with Lance Dacy 1:00:08

2M ago1:00:08

1:00:08

Real Agile forecasting runs on math, not magic. Brian and Lance dive into Monte Carlo methods, DORA metrics, and how AI is shifting the future of project management. All with a human-first approach that builds better teams, not bigger spreadsheets. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner and Lance Dacy unpack why Agile t…

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#143: What Still Makes Teams Work (and Win) with Jim York 32:32

2M ago32:32

32:32

What does soccer, soda, and software have in common? According to Jim York—everything. In this episode, he and Brian Milner break down what great teamwork really means, why shared goals matter more than job titles, and how understanding your team’s unique contribution can unlock better flow and results. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors…

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#142: Communication Patterns Keeping Your Team Stuck with Marsha Acker 36:33

2M ago36:33

36:33

If your team keeps revisiting the same issues over and over again, Groundhog Day-style, this episode is for you. Leadership coach Marsha Acker shares why it happens, how to recognize hidden conversational patterns, and what to do when you feel stuck. Overview In this episode, Brian Milner sits down with executive team coach and author Marsha Acker …

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#141: Cooking Up a Killer Retrospective with Brian Milner 30:20

2M ago30:20

30:20

Tired of “What went well?” and “What didn’t”? Brian Milner is here to help you cook up retrospectives that actually get your team thinking, collaborating, and improving. From creative themes to actionable frameworks, this is your behind-the-scenes guide to better retros. Overview Do your retrospectives feel more “check-the-box” than game-changing? …

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Expert - Joel Iwashige of Common Thriving 24:51

2M ago24:51

24:51

Join Executive Director Jackson Swearer as he sits down with Joel Iwashige, owner of Common Thriving. The discuss Joels own entrepreneurial journey, from working with a software business in Bangladesh to launching his own consulting business here in the united states.By Jackson Swearer

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#140: The Power of Emotional Delight in Product Design with Dr. Nesrine Changuel 36:15

3M ago36:15

36:15

What do Spotify, Google Meet, and your expense report tool have in common? They could all delight your users—if you design for more than just function. In this episode, Dr. Nesrine Changuel breaks down the emotional motivators that transform average products into unforgettable ones. Overview What separates a good product from a great one? According…

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#139: The Retrospective Reset with Cort Sharp 39:33

3M ago39:33

39:33

Retrospectives shouldn’t suck the energy out of your team—or get skipped entirely. In this episode, Brian and Cort share how to fix the most common retro fails and announce two brand-new tools to help you run retros that actually work. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner and Cort Sharp break down why retrospectives a…

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#138: The Bad Meeting Hangover with Julie Chickering 39:15

3M ago39:15

39:15

Ever left a meeting feeling more drained than before it started? That’s the dreaded meeting hangover. Brian Milner and Julie Chickering dive into why bad meetings have lasting effects—and what facilitators AND participants can do to make them better. Overview Bad meetings don’t just waste time, they drain energy, morale, and engagement long after t…

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#137: Stop Wasting Time with Guests Kate Megaw 36:08

3M ago36:08

36:08

In this episode, Kate Megaw joins Brian Milner to share simple but powerful techniques that can turn those soul-sucking meetings into dynamic, action-driven conversations. If you're ready to make meetings worth attending, this one’s for you! Overview Brian Milner and Kate Megaw uncover the secrets to running highly effective and engaging meetings. …

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#136: The Future of Agile Coaching with Andreas Schliep 32:00

4M ago32:00

32:00

What’s next for Agile coaching? Brian Milner and Andreas Schliep dive into the shifting landscape of Agile coaching, the differences between Scrum Masters and Agile Coaches, and how to carve out a sustainable career in a changing industry. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner and Andreas Schliep explore the evolving r…

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#135: Leading Without Authority with Pete Behrens 33:33

4M ago33:33

33:33

In this episode, Brian Milner and Pete Behrens explore the difference between managing and leading, the critical role of middle management in transformation, and how anyone—at any level—can drive real change in their organization. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner sits down with leadership expert Pete Behrens to un…

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#134: How Leaders Can Reduce Burnout and Boost Performance with Marcus Lagré 27:35

4M ago27:35

27:35

Is workplace stress just about long hours? Not quite. Brian and Marcus Lagré unpack the real equation behind stress—how pressure, complexity, and security interact—and why your team’s performance depends on getting the balance right. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner sits down with Marcus Lagré, product organizatio…

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#133: Trending Agile: Scrum Masters, AI, and the Future of Agile 37:09

4M ago37:09

37:09

The Agile Alliance partners with PMI—what does it mean for Agile’s future? Plus, how AI is reshaping Scrum Master roles and why honesty (even when it stings) is the key to career growth. Brian Milner and Cort Sharp tackle these hot topics in a no-holds-barred discussion. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner and Cort S…

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Expert - Kira Chereé Cobb of Entrepreneur Business Basics 26:15

5M ago26:15

26:15

Join Executive Director Jackson Swearer as he gets on a call with Kira Chereé Cobb of Entrepreneur Business Basics (EBB). Together they discuss programs EBB offers including the JUMP© cohorts as well as Kira's own entrepreneurial journey, and the importance of investing in yourself. Learn more about EBB and JUMP© at ebbkc.com Kira and Jackson also …

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#132: Can Nice Guys Finish First? with Scott Dunn 33:21

5M ago33:21

33:21

Can being "nice" at work actually hold you back? Join Brian and Scott Dunn as they unravel the myths around workplace "niceness," explore the balance between kindness and assertiveness, and reveal how honest communication can earn you respect—and maybe even that long-overdue promotion. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian an…

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#131: Lessons from Modern Agile with Joshua Kerievsky 32:09

5M ago32:09

32:09

Is Agile still relevant in today’s fast-paced world? Brian and Joshua Kerievsky reveal the four game-changing principles of Modern Agile that prioritize safety, empowerment, and continuous value delivery. Overview In this episode, Brian Milner sits down with Joshua Kerievsky, a pioneer in the Agile community and the creator of Modern Agile. They di…

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#130: Be the Change: How to Drive Impact Without Authority with April K. Mills 30:26

5M ago30:26

30:26

Ready to spark real change in your organization? In this episode, Brian Milner sits down with April K. Mills, founder of Engine for Change, to reveal how anyone can become a powerful change agent—without waiting for permission. Learn how to drive meaningful change, navigate resistance, and reignite Agile practices with strategies that actually work…

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#129: 2025: The Year Agile Meets AI and Hyper-Personalization with Lance Dacy 43:15

5M ago43:15

43:15

Curious about the future of Agile in 2025? Join Brian and Lance Dacy as they dive into the rise of AI, hyper-personalization, and how teams can balance innovation with customer focus. Plus, discover actionable insights to navigate a rapidly evolving landscape—don’t miss this forward-looking discussion! Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors …

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Success - Pippin Williamson of Sandhills Brewing 53:39

6M ago53:39

53:39

Join Executive Director Jackson Swearer as he sits down with Pippin Williamson, owner of Sandhills Brewing and former owner of Sandhills Development as they discuss Pippin's entrepreneurial journey.By Jackson Swearer

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#128: Top Lessons from 2024’s Most Inspiring Episodes with Brian Miner 23:31

6M ago23:31

23:31

Missed some episodes this year? Don’t worry—Brian’s got you covered with a highlight reel of 2024’s most memorable moments, featuring game-changing insights from Agile thought leaders and innovators. Tune in to catch up, reflect, and set your sights on a stellar 2025! Overview In this special year-end episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian tak…

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#127: Agile Strategies for Job Market Uncertainty with Mark Kilby 31:06

6M ago31:06

31:06

How do you navigate a bumpy job market with an agile mindset? Join Brian and leadership coach Mark Kilby as they explore practical strategies for staying prepared, leveraging your network, and taking ownership of your career during uncertain times. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors podcast, Brian Milner and Mark Kilby explore how to app…

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#126: Mastering the Scrum Master Role with Gary K. Evans 34:30

7M ago34:30

34:30

What does it take to be an effective Scrum Master? In this episode, Brian Milner and Gary K. Evans, author of The Effective Scrum Master, explore the nuanced role of Scrum Masters, the importance of people skills, and the shift from efficiency to effectiveness. Overview Join Brian Milner as he chats with Agile coach and author Gary K. Evans about t…

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Start Up - Mark Keeton of ReadyLink 22:56

7M ago22:56

22:56

Join Executive Director Jackson Swearer as he sits down with Mark Keeton, the winner of the Entrepreneur Business Basics JUMP Pitch Contest as he shares his entrepreneurial journey, what he got out of the EBB JUMP class, and what's next for ReadyLink!By Jackson Swearer

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#125: Embracing Gratitude in Challenging Times with Brian Milner 9:26

7M ago9:26

9:26

Get ready for a special Thanksgiving episode where Brian Milner shares what he’s most grateful for this year and why a little reflection on gratitude can go a long way. It’s time to embrace the positives and celebrate the connections that keep us growing. Overview In this special Thanksgiving episode, Brian Milner takes a heartfelt pause to reflect…

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#124: How to Avoid Common Product Team Pitfalls with David Pereira 29:28

7M ago29:28

29:28

Curious if your product team is caught in common traps that limit success? Join Brian and David Pereira as they explore how to simplify workflows, make smarter bets with prioritization, and shift from output-driven thinking to delivering real value. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, host Brian Milner chats with David Pereira, a…

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#123: Unlocking Team Intelligence with Linda Rising 44:35

8M ago44:35

44:35

What makes a team intelligent? Brian and Linda Rising explore the surprising factors that foster group intelligence, from psychological safety to diversity, backed by groundbreaking research from MIT and Google. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner sits down with Agile thought leader Linda Rising to explore the concep…

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Start Up - Cody Ruebke of XP League 21:38

8M ago21:38

21:38

Join Executive Director Jackson Swearer as he sits down with Cody Ruebke, Owner and League Commissioner of XP League NW Wichita. They discuss youth e-sports, the games students play, how students compete, and their experience at nationals.By Jackson Swearer

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#122: Empowering Diversity with Nosa Oyegun & Louria Lindauer 37:15

8M ago37:15

37:15

Join us as we explore how Agile in Color is breaking down barriers in the Agile community and empowering people of color through mentorship, support, and leadership. Learn how you can be an ally and foster a more inclusive environment in your own Agile journey. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner is joined by Nosa Oy…

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#121: Busting the Biggest Myths About Agile Tools with Steve Spearman 38:29

8M ago38:29

38:29

Can Agile tools really teach you Agile practices, or are they just supporting players? Join Brian and Steve Spearman as they unpack the myths surrounding tools like Jira and discover why the process should always come before the tool. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner and Steve Spearman debunk common myths about Ag…

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#120: Agile in Gaming with Clinton Keith 32:15

8M ago32:15

32:15

How does Agile fit into the fast-paced, high-stakes world of game development? Clinton Keith, author of Agile Game Development, spills the secrets from his time working with some of the top studios in the industry and explains why adapting Agile to gaming is both a challenge and a game-changer. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast,…

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#119: Conferences, Connections, and Community with Chris Murman 34:21

8M ago34:21

34:21

In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner chats with Murman about the value of attending Agile conferences, the importance of networking, and the impact of volunteering in the Agile community. They share personal stories, advice on making the most of conference experiences, and insights into how volunteering can open up new opportu…

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Expert - Jenny Doty of The Heartland Regional Food Business Center 25:57

9M ago25:57

25:57

The Heartland Regional Food Business Center helps farm and food enterprises start up, grow, and make supply chain connections needed to serve growing demand for local and regionally produced food. The Heartland Regional Food Business Center is one of 12 across the nation established in 2023 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to support the devel…

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#118: The Secrets to Agile Success with Mike Cohn 33:33

9M ago33:33

33:33

In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner and Mike Cohn reveal the keys to achieving lasting success with Agile methodologies. From embracing experimentation and fostering a culture of continuous improvement to improving communication with consistent vocabulary, they offer practical, relatable insights for Agile practitioners at al…

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#117: How AI and Automation Are Redefining Success for Developers with Lance Dacy 36:20

9M ago36:20

36:20

In this episode, Brian Milner and Lance Dacy dive into the evolving world of software development, exploring how AI and automation are reshaping the landscape. They discuss the essential skills developers need in this new era, from embracing AI as a tool to mastering emotional intelligence and continuous learning. Overview Brian and Lance discuss t…

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Start Up - Chief The Barber of Diamond Cutz 25:25

9M ago25:25

25:25

Join Executive Director Jackson Swearer as he sits down with Chief the Barber, owner of Diamond Cutz. Chiefs story is one of perseverance, second chances, and the entrepreneurial spirit.By Jackson Swearer

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#116: Turning Weird User Actions into Big Wins with Gojko Adzic 33:14

9M ago33:14

33:14

What do lizards have to do with product growth? In this episode, Gojko Adzic reveals how unusual user behaviors can unlock massive opportunities for product innovation. Discover the four steps to mastering "Lizard Optimization" and learn how you can turn strange user actions into game-changing insights. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors…

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#115: Aligning Leadership for Success with Dr. Tess Thompson 29:15

9M ago29:15

29:15

Join Brian and Dr. Tess Thompson as they delve into the complexities of scaling Agile, highlighting the challenges of aligning leadership priorities, fostering transparency, and applying system-level thinking for successful organizational transformations. Overview In this insightful episode, Dr. Tess Thompson tackles the pressing challenges organiz…

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#114: Is Agile Dead? with Scott Dunn 40:07

10M ago40:07

40:07

Is Agile really dead, or are we just doing it wrong? Tune in as Brian and Scott dive deep into the controversies and misconceptions surrounding Agile practices and what it really takes to make Agile work in today’s organizations. Overview In this episode, Brian and Agile Mentors Podcast regular, Scott Dunn, tackle the provocative question: "Is Agil…

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#113: Influence Without Authority with Christopher DiBella 31:06

10M ago31:06

31:06

Join Brian Milner as he talks with leadership expert Christopher DiBella about mastering the art of influencing without authority. Learn how to lead with respect, empathy, and compassion to inspire your team, even when you don’t hold the official title. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian interviews Christopher DiBella, an …

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#112: Exploring Collaboration Styles with Jessica Guistolise 32:36

10M ago32:36

32:36

Discover how recognizing and accommodating different collaboration styles can transform your Agile team dynamics. Join Brian Milner and Jessica Guistolise as they delve into the key to effective and inclusive collaboration. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian interviews Jessica Guistolise about the diverse collaboration sty…

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#111: Adapting to the Future of Work with Heather McGowan 32:01

10M ago32:01

32:01

Explore the dynamic future of work with Brian Milner and Heather McGowan as they discuss the essential shifts in mindset and culture needed to thrive in the augmented era. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner interviews Heather McGowan, a renowned future of work strategist, about the rapidly changing landscape of work…

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Expert - Christopher Acker of StartUp Hutch 21:21

10M ago21:21

21:21

Join Executive Director Jackson Swearer as he sits down StartUp Hutch's own Program Administrator, Christopher Acker. They discuss the many programs offered by StartUp Hutch as well as Christopher's own business, Salt City Sound, and why he loves Hutchinson.By Jackson Swearer

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#110: Overcoming Organizational Dysfunctions with Lucy O’Keefe 28:02

11M ago28:02

28:02

Explore the hidden barriers to successful Scrum adoption as Brian Milner and Lucy O'Keefe dive into organizational dysfunctions and cultural impediments in this insightful episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast. Overview In this episode of the Agile Mentors Podcast, Brian Milner sits down with Lucy O’Keefe to unpack the organizational dysfunctions hi…