The Project Chatter Podcast

Epizode

• S10E220: Is Project Controls Behind on AI? | Yash Desai, Movar Reply 26.06.2026 1h 5min

  Most data scientists have never touched a project. Yash Desai looked at the project controls world through the data first, and what he found says a lot about why this industry lags behind others on AI.In Episode 220, Dale is joined by returning co-host Martin and first-time guest Yash Desai, Head of Data and AI at Movar Reply, for a practical conversation on where data, AI and robotics actually fit in project delivery.We cover why project controls sits behind other industries, what an orchestration layer really is, how to future-proof your role, the data scientist vs project controller debate, hiring for drive over a skills list, robotics on site today vs the hype, and the Fable situation. No buzzwords, just useful insight.Chapters:00:00 Welcome back01:38 Who is Yash Desai?04:09 Why project controls lags on AI09:44 What is an orchestration layer?14:23 Future-proofing your role22:48 Data scientist vs project controller33:26 Grads and the assurance layer36:17 Why robotics is getting interesting46:21 Robotics in one to two years52:10 Should governments regulate robotics?57:23 The Fable situation and 'Pragmatic'01:01:01 Final thoughtsConnect with Yash: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yash-desai-00847216b/Subscribe to Pragmatic: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/pragmaitic-7347631768201535488/A free-access podcast. Pay it forward and share it on.www.projectchatter.com
• S10E219: Why 88% of Schedules Fail, and What AI Still Can't Fix with Michael Pink 17.06.2026 55min

  88% of project schedules don't follow best practice. So why are we so keen to feed that data into AI and trust the output?In this episode, Dale and Val are joined by Michael Pink, Founder of SmartPM, for a sharp conversation on the forensic side of delay and the state of AI in project controls.Mike has analysed hundreds of thousands of schedules and built a career on working out who delayed what, and why nobody could ever agree. His core message: clean data is not the same as honest data. A technically tidy schedule can tell you a story that never happened, and if you point AI at it, you don't get insight, you get a confident wrong answer at scale.What we cover:Mike's route into construction, from a study-abroad debt to KPMG's construction consulting group25 years of change in the people and process side of schedulingThe shift from reactive forensic work to proactive project controlsData honesty vs data quality, and why integrity is the combination of both (framing credited to Isaac Dyer and Carlos Sanchez)The 88% problem: missing logic, inflated float and moving datesThe compression factor, and the exact point a schedule becomes infeasibleWhy a weekly update beats a monthly one, for almost no extra timeP6 vs Microsoft Project, and grading schedule quality across 35 metricsWhere LLMs genuinely help, and why quantitative AI is still the long gameThe future of the scheduler: less building and cleaning, more strategyA genuinely optimistic look at where the profession is heading, and why this might be the best time yet to be in project controls.This episode is proudly sponsored by nPlan.nPlan Summer AI Day 2026: Construction Superintelligence takes place in London on Thursday 25 June 2026, with a fireside featuring Peter Hancock, Project Director at National Grid, and Dima Pogorelsky, MD and Partner at BCG. February's event sold out with standing room only. Register here:https://www.nplan.io/events/nplan-summer-ai-day-2026-construction-superintelligenceConnect with Michael Pink at https://www.smartpm.com or on LinkedIn.If you enjoyed this episode, help us pay it forward and share it. Stay safe, be disruptive, and have fun doing it.
• S10E218: Breaking into the job market in the age of AI, with Nick Chizuka 11.06.2026 55min

  Top of his MBA class at the University of Bath, technically sharp, and still firing out 20 to 30 applications a day with little to show for it. Nick Chizuka joins Dale and Val for an honest conversation about what it takes to land a role in project controls and consulting right now, and why the rise of AI has made the graduate market tougher than it was even a year ago.It is a candid look at the gap between what universities teach and what employers actually want, the false choice between technical and soft skills, and where the real jobs of the next decade might come from.In this episode:Why a top MBA no longer guarantees a job, and what changedTechnical skills vs soft skills, and why you need bothThe graduates' verdict on data, analytics and machine learningRobotics and physical AI as the next frontierThe energy and infrastructure bottleneck nobody talks aboutUsing the big firms as a springboard, not a destinationGrit, discipline, and hiring for attitude over CVNick's hard-won advice: don't get discouraged, get help, and network relentlesslyA reminder that people are not their behaviours. Set the environment for success and the right person will fly.This episode is sponsored by nPlan.nPlan AI Day, Summer 2026: Construction SuperintelligenceThursday 25 June 2026, from 3:00pmKachette, 347 Old St, London EC1V 9LP, and onlinenPlan's twice-yearly showcase returns with its biggest product moment of the year, including the launch of the nPlan Decision Intelligence Platform. The fireside brings together Peter Hancock, Project Director at National Grid on the Didcot substation, and Dima Pogorelsky, Managing Director and Partner at BCG, for a candid take on delivering the infrastructure behind the AI era. February sold out with standing room only, so book early.Register: https://www.nplan.io/events/nplan-summer-ai-day-2026-construction-superintelligenceListen, subscribe and follow Project Chatter wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoyed this one, pay it forward and share the link.Stay safe, be disruptive, and have fun doing it.
• S10E217: Lisa Silander on 30 Years in UK Project Controls 01.05.2026 55min

  Dale and Val are joined by Lisa Silander, Global Practice and UK Technical Lead for Project Controls at AtkinsRéalis.With 30 years leading planning and project controls teams across aviation, rail, water, manufacturing, and nuclear, Lisa has shaped delivery on some of the UK's most demanding capital programmes including Heathrow Terminal 5, Heathrow Q6, the Heathrow Expansion Project, Thames Water AMP5, and Yorkshire Water AMP7.In this episode we cover:Lisa's career journey into project controlsWhat attracted her to the discipline and kept her there for three decadesThe initiative she's leading to build UK project controls capability at AtkinsRéalisWhy humans will always be involved in projects, even as AI reshapes the workThe daily habits that have shaped her careerGrit, determination, and the human side of leading high-performing teamsPerspective as a woman building and leading teams in a complex industryA grounded, practical conversation with one of the most experienced voices in UK project controls.Connect with Lisa Silander on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-silander-fcasa-b078645/Follow the Project Chatter Podcast:Website: https://www.projectchatter.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/projectchatterpodcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoudjc2m0ttmAkyvBnf8EnQSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6m6J87LIOHVoY9FlaAXp53Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-project-chatter-podcast/id1869579042If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share with someone in your network.Keep listening, keep liking, and keep paying it forward.
• S10E216: CaSA Digital Community of Practice Fight Night 22.04.2026 42min

  We recently hosted the Controls and Skills Authority Digital Community of Practice Fight Night in Birmingham. This lively panel debate explores the impact of AI on project delivery, jobs, and industry practices. Experts challenge the notion that AI is just a tool or a threat, examining cultural, technical, and structural factors shaping AI adoption in construction and beyond.3 FightsCulture is the No.1 Enabler for AI Adoption - Ronald Dyer vs Andrew KnightAI is just a tool, it won't replace jobs - Lisa Silander vs Marco FrisendaAI Does Not Improve Project Delivery - Sarah Crawley vs Kashan Ratyalhttps://www.controlsandskills.co.uk/
• S10E215: AI Regulation - Navigating the Future of Responsible Innovation with Isabela Parisio 03.04.2026 1h 21min

  In this episode, Isabela Parisio, a legal expert in AI regulation, shares insights on the challenges and opportunities of regulating artificial intelligence. Topics include regulatory sandboxes, definitions of AI, accountability, privacy, military applications, and the future of AI governance. Key TopicsRegulatory sandboxes for AI testingDefinitions and scope of AIAccountability and liability in AI systemsPrivacy concerns and data protectionMilitary applications and ethical considerationsLegal fictions and AI as a legal entityPolicy development and international cooperationChapters03:59 Isabela's Background and Transition to AI07:54 Intersection of Law and AI11:07 Understanding Regulatory Sandboxes14:44 Experimentation in AI Development21:00 Privacy Concerns in AI28:22 The Role of AI in Self-Regulation34:39 The Human Element in Technological Advancement39:30 AI in Military Applications: Accountability and Ethics46:07 Navigating Accountability in AI Usage56:40 Education and AI Literacy for Future Generations01:01:41 The Legal Status of AI: A New Frontier01:11:36 The Future of AI: Ethical Considerations and GovernanceResourcesResponsible AI UK - https://responsibleaiuk.org/European Union AI Act - https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52021PC0206Johns Hopkins University AI Policy - https://www.jhu.edu/King's College London AI Research - https://www.kcl.ac.uk/Bicentennial Man (Movie) - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0118571/UK Data Protection Laws - https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/guide-to-data-protection/guide-to-the-general-data-protection-regulation-gdpr/California AI Legislation - https://oag.ca.gov/privacy/ccpaAI Summit 2023 - https://aibusiness.com/events/ai-summit-2023/
• S10E214: Understanding the Complexity of Modern Data Centers with Dr Atif Ansar 20.03.2026 56min

  In this episode of the Project Chatter podcast, Val and Dale welcome Atif Ansar, co-founder of Foresight, to discuss the rapidly evolving world of data centers. Atif shares insights on the explosive growth and increasing complexity of data centers, highlighting the challenges related to energy supply, skilled labor, and technology redundancy. The conversation explores the role of AI in enhancing data center design and construction, the impact of edge computing, and the skills needed for future project professionals in this dynamic field. Atif also touches on innovative concepts like space-based data centers, emphasizing the exciting opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. In this conversation, the speakers explore the intersection of creativity and AI, discussing how technology influences project management and the future of jobs. They emphasize the importance of human essence in a technology-driven world and the evolving nature of data centers amidst global competition. The discussion also touches on the necessity of adapting to technological advancements and the potential for superintelligence in the future.Takeaways🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ Data centers are experiencing explosive growth, with construction volume increasing significantly.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ The complexity of data centers has evolved, making them more akin to industrial assets than simple warehouses.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ Data centers require substantial energy, land, and skilled labor, creating challenges in construction.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ The lifespan of data centers is long, but technology within them evolves rapidly, leading to potential obsolescence.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ AI can significantly enhance the design and construction processes of data centers.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ Edge computing complements data centers, creating a fractal-like relationship between different computing structures.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ Project professionals should focus on becoming subject matter experts while also being adaptable and open to using AI.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ The energy supply for data centers is a critical constraint, but innovation in self-supply and renewable energy is emerging.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ Understanding the components and costs associated with data centers is essential for project professionals.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ The future of data centers may include innovative concepts like space-based facilities. Creativity enhances the effectiveness of project management.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ AI allows generalists to be more valuable than specialists.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ Human jobs will evolve rather than disappear due to AI.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ The demand for human-specific jobs will be based on human preferences.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ Technological advancements can improve quality of life and efficiency.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ The luxuries of one generation become necessities for the next.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ We are transitioning from an analog to a digital world.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ Data centers are crucial in the global tech race.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ The construction of data centers will continue to grow exponentially.🏗️👷🏼‍♀️ Continuous learning is essential in a rapidly changing technological landscape.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:58 The Growth and Complexity of Data Centers05:23 Key Components of Data Centers08:01 The Future of Data Centers in Space11:24 Energy Supply Challenges for Data Centers15:30 Technology Redundancy and Lifespan of Data Centers20:43 Edge Computing and Its Impact23:58 AI's Role in Data Center Design and Construction27:29 Skills for Future Project Professionals in Data Centers30:44 The Intersection of Creativity and AI33:46 The Future of Jobs in an AI World36:18 Human Essence in the Age of Technology39:39 The Evolution of Technology and Human Experience43:42 Data Center Dynamics and Global Competition52:11 The Future of Project Management and Technology#ProjectManagement #PMO #ProjectControls #Leadership #Culture #ProjectCertifications
• S10E213: Unmasking Watermelon Projects: How to Achieve True Transparency in Projects with Dave Lockley 06.03.2026 45min

  In this episode, project delivery expert Dave Lockley shares insights on transforming complex change portfolios into measurable business value, the pitfalls of watermelon projects, and how technology can improve project transparency and decision-making.Key TopicsWatermelon projects and transparencyThe role of technology and AI in project managementLeadership and decision-making in projectsChapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions03:51 Dave Lockley's Journey into Project Management06:30 Understanding the Motivation Behind Projects08:14 The Concept of Watermelon Projects11:45 The Role of Technology in Project Management15:32 Decision-Making in Project Management20:51 The Need for a Chief Projects Officer22:37 The Impact of Technology on Decision-Making26:54 Understanding Decision-Making in Project Management28:19 Identifying Project Risks and Metrics30:06 The Importance of Transparency in Reporting31:15 Leadership and Accountability in Projects33:22 The Need for Qualified Decision-Makers36:11 Exploring Governance and Control in Projects38:56 The Role of Human Behavior in Project Management40:37 Final Thoughts and Reflections on Project Management
• S10E212: Building a Project Control-Friendly Culture with Rod Whiting 02.02.2026 54min

  In this episode of the Project Chatter podcast, Dale engages with Rod Whiting, a seasoned expert in project controls, who shares his extensive journey in the field since 1983. Rod discusses the evolution of project controls, emphasizing the importance of a project control-friendly culture within organizations. He highlights how understanding and valuing project controls can significantly impact project success, illustrating his points with anecdotes from his career. Rod also addresses the challenges of demonstrating the value of project controls to stakeholders, offering practical strategies to communicate its importance effectively.As the conversation progresses, Rod delves into the human aspects of project management, including stakeholder management and team dynamics. He shares insights on building relationships within teams, the significance of effective communication, and the role of technology in enhancing project controls. The discussion culminates in reflections on the highs and lows of Rod's career, emphasizing the importance of kindness and compassion in the workplace, and the need for a supportive culture that fosters collaboration and success in project delivery.TakeawaysProject controls is about understanding and valuing the process.A project control-friendly culture is essential for success.Demonstrating the value of project controls requires effective communication.Building relationships within teams is crucial for project success.Kindness and compassion in the workplace lead to better outcomes.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Project Chatter Podcast00:49 Rod Whiting's Journey in Project Controls03:39 Understanding Project Control-Friendly Culture06:52 Demonstrating the Value of Project Controls11:12 Building Strong Team Relationships19:43 Navigating the Post-COVID Work Landscape30:37 The Future of Work and Automation32:12 Creating a Project Controls-Friendly Culture35:29 Leadership and Compassion in Tough Times39:00 Common Mistakes in Project Management42:25 Capturing Knowledge and Experience45:19 The Role of Technology in Project Controls49:54 Highs and Lows of a Project Management Career55:34 Final Thoughts on Kindness and Purpose
• S10E211: AI and Change Management - A New Era with Vincent Marsicano 17.01.2026 59min

  In this episode of Project Chatter, hosts Dale and Val welcome Vincent Marsicano, CEO of Adopt It, to discuss the intersection of change management and technology. Vincent shares his unique background, which includes a PhD in physics and extensive experience in change management, emphasizing the importance of human-centered leadership in navigating organizational change. The conversation delves into the challenges of technology adoption, the role of AI in change management, and the necessity of understanding the human side of projects. Vincent argues that while technology can enhance efficiency, the core of successful change management lies in empathy and effective communication.As the discussion unfolds, Vincent highlights the significance of identifying key influencers within organizations to facilitate change. He also addresses the complexities of human behavior in project management, suggesting that understanding individual differences and fostering a culture of trust can lead to more successful outcomes. The episode concludes with reflections on the evolving landscape of change management, emphasizing the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for practitioners in this field.TakeawaysChange management is fundamentally about the people side of projects.Technology is driving change, but it also creates challenges in adoption.Identifying key influencers within organizations can facilitate smoother change processes.Empathy and effective communication are crucial for successful change management.AI has the potential to revolutionize change management practices.
• S9E210: Healthy Habits for Busy Project Professionals with Becky Holliday 17.12.2025 58min

  Dale flies solo (briefly!) to close out 2025 and welcomes first-time podcast guest Becky Holliday - a project manager turned health coach. Becky shares how redundancy in October 2023 became the catalyst for a career pivot, and why she now helps busy professionals (especially women) build sustainable health habits. Val drops in mid-episode and the conversation expands into discipline vs motivation, managing workload pressure, eating well without weekend meal-prep marathons, and why small wins beat heroic last-minute sprints.In this episode, you’ll learnWhy Becky left project management and what she brought with her into health coachingHow to start improving health when you “don’t have time”Why trying to change everything on Monday usually backfiresA simple way to reduce stress and decision fatigue: the “3-item to-do list”Practical approaches to healthier eating that don’t require your Sunday afternoonHow movement can support mental resilience when work pressure spikesDiscipline vs motivation—and why habit size mattersThe role of identity, purpose, and values (and a thoughtful detour into spirituality)To get your FREE 5-Step Guide to Creating Healthy Habits that Stick, click here: beckyholliday.com/free-guideJoin 400+ women getting free health tools and advice every Wednesday by signing up for Becky's FREE newsletter here: beckyholliday.com/free-newsletter
• S9E209: Unlocking the Power of Reality Capture with Derek Lawrence 05.12.2025 57min

  In this episode, Dale Foong discusses the fascinating world of reality capture with expert Derek Lawrence. They explore Derek's journey into the field, the various applications of reality capture in project management, and the integration of AI in this technology. The conversation also delves into the barriers to adoption, real-world use cases, and the future of reality capture, including its potential in creating digital twins. Derek emphasizes the importance of understanding existing structures and the value of capturing accurate data for decision-making in construction and beyond.TakeawaysReality capture is a digital copy of what is for decision making.Derek Lawrence transitioned from traditional engineering to reality capture due to frustrations with conventional methods.Laser scanning technology is becoming more accessible and easier to use.Reality capture can integrate with cost modeling and project management.There are significant barriers to the adoption of reality capture in the industry.Real-world applications of reality capture include construction monitoring and historical preservation.AI is enhancing reality capture capabilities, making it easier to create 3D models.The future of reality capture includes potential uses in various industries beyond construction.Derek encourages a fail-fast approach to testing new technologies.Digital twins require accurate data, and reality capture can help achieve that. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Reality Capture05:42 Derek's Journey into Reality Capture11:59 Understanding Reality Capture18:52 Integrating Reality Capture with Project Management22:43 Barriers to Adoption of Reality Capture30:47 Real-World Applications of Reality Capture42:46 The Future of Reality Capture and AI57:39 Final Thoughts on Digital Twins and Reality CaptureLinksThe Furze Underground Complex - https://youtu.be/QKTnx6F-XMo?si=oSfyOTvXwfkv2-gjIan Jenkins talking about Gaussian Splats in the Meta Quest 3 - https://youtu.be/s6ZYbBsbAas?si=NVVz7mHMckj9p5-JDerek's YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@twindltdDerek's LinkedIn page - www.linkedin.com/in/twindlderek
• S9E208: Blockchain and Carbon: The Future of Project Management with Kevin O'Grady 03.11.2025 59min

  In this episode of the Project Chatter podcast, Val and Dale welcome Kevin O'Grady, a director at Cognitive, who shares his extensive experience in project management, particularly in the built environment. The conversation delves into the practical applications of blockchain technology in construction, the importance of carbon tracking, and the emerging role of sustainable aviation fuel. Kevin provides insights into how these technologies can enhance project delivery and efficiency, while also discussing the challenges and opportunities they present. The episode emphasizes the need for transparency and collaboration in the industry, as well as the importance of measuring and improving carbon emissions.TakeawaysKevin O'Grady has a diverse background in project management and engineering.Blockchain can enhance transparency and trust in project delivery.Carbon tracking is essential for sustainable project management.Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is gaining traction but faces infrastructure challenges.AI can play a significant role in tracking project progress and carbon emissions.Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for successful project outcomes.The construction industry needs to adapt to new technologies for better efficiency.Measuring carbon emissions is vital for improving sustainability in projects.Project wallets could revolutionize payment transparency in construction.Innovation in the industry is driven by the need for better practices and technologies.Chapters04:24 Kevin O'Grady's Journey in Project Management07:33 Transitioning from Engineering to Commercial Management09:21 Technological Innovations in Project Management13:12 The Role of Digital Twins in Project Delivery17:20 Understanding Blockchain Technology20:58 Blockchain Applications in Construction27:43 Exploring Real-World Use Cases for Blockchain30:23 Tokenization in Construction Payments32:03 Linking Progress and Blockchain34:54 Smart Contracts and Payment Automation36:51 Challenges in Implementing Blockchain39:42 The Role of Profit Margins in Construction43:03 Carbon Measurement and Blockchain43:32 Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Its Challenges
• S9E207: Insourcing - Bringing Capability In-House with Jo Lucas 08.10.2025 59min

  In this episode, Val and Dale engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Jo Lucas, exploring the evolving dynamics of insourcing versus outsourcing in organizations. Jo shares insights from her extensive experience, discussing the importance of human connection, decision-making, and the role of AI in modern workplaces. The discussion delves into the challenges and opportunities of insourcing, the impact of generational shifts, and the future of work in a rapidly changing world.Key Takeaways:Jo Lucas emphasizes the importance of human connection in organizational success.The conversation explores the shift from outsourcing to insourcing in modern workplaces.AI is seen as a tool for abstraction, while humans provide connection.Generational shifts impact workplace dynamics and decision-making.Insourcing offers opportunities for stability and purpose in jobs.The role of consultants is evolving with the trend towards insourcing.Decision-making is a key responsibility for clients in organizations.The future of work involves balancing technology and human relationships.AI can assist but not replace human decision-making and connection.Organizations must adapt to changing contexts and embrace flexibility.
• S9E206: Fast Forward to the Past – Dodging the bullets of tech trends like AI to deliver perfect projects with Prof. Eddie Obeng 24.09.2025 1h 3min

  In this episode, Val and Dale engage with Professor Eddie Obeng to explore the multifaceted implications of AI in today's world. They discuss the hype surrounding AI, its potential benefits and challenges in various sectors, particularly healthcare and governance. The conversation emphasizes the importance of human elements in technology, the need for a balanced perspective on AI's role in society, and the necessity of dreaming a better future rather than getting swept up in the gold rush mentality.📖 All Change! [Project Chatter Edition]TakeawaysAI is both a potential savior and a threat.The hype around AI often overshadows its practical applications.Understanding the human element is crucial in technology adoption.Persuasion plays a significant role in the AI gold rush.AI can enhance healthcare but must be approached cautiously.The future of work will be shaped by how we integrate AI.Governance can benefit from AI, but ethical considerations are paramount.Community values should guide the implementation of AI.AI's limitations must be acknowledged to avoid over-reliance.Dreaming a better future is essential for meaningful progress.Chapters00:00 The AI Gold Rush: Promise or Peril?13:19 Understanding AI: Tools vs. Jobs22:40 The Human Element in Technology31:49 Leadership in the Age of AI33:09 Evolve, Dominate or Die: The New Business Paradigm34:32 Harnessing AI: A Practical Approach38:49 The Human Element in AI and Technology41:07 AI in Healthcare: Opportunities and Challenges44:47 Reimagining Community and Governance with AI56:32 The Future of AI in Administration and Decision Making
• S9E205: Replicability of the Montreal REM Model with Riccardo Cosentino 08.09.2025 42min

  In this episode of the Project Chatter podcast, hosts Val and Dale engage with Riccardo Cosentino to explore the unique aspects of the REM project in Canada, a public-private partnership (PPP) model that has garnered attention for its innovative funding and governance structure. Riccardo shares insights into the project's background, the role of the Quebec pension fund as a project sponsor, and the implications of risk management and return calculations. The conversation delves into the importance of early stakeholder involvement, the challenges of public opinion, and the potential for replicating this model in other sectors. Throughout the discussion, the significance of governance, long-term perspectives, and the necessary skill sets for project professionals are emphasized, providing valuable takeaways for listeners interested in infrastructure projects and PPPs.TakeawaysThe REM project is a unique public-private partnership model.Risk management is crucial in financing infrastructure projects.The obligation to repay investments can shift from taxpayers to private entities.Calculating returns involves considering ridership and land value capture.Contingency planning is integrated into the rate of return.Early involvement of stakeholders leads to better project outcomes.Governance structures can significantly impact project success.Long-term perspectives are essential for managing infrastructure investments.Curiosity and risk-taking are important traits for project professionals.The REM model could be applied to other sectors beyond transportation.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Background03:24 Understanding Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)06:11 The REM Project Overview08:56 Funding and Risk Management in the REM Project11:55 Calculating Returns and Land Value Capture14:33 Governance and Project Delivery17:21 Long-Term Perspectives and Lifecycle Management22:47 Changing Dynamics in Project Management24:35 Governance and Change Management in Projects26:38 Replicating Successful Project Models29:08 Applying the Model Beyond Rail Projects31:07 Reporting Mechanisms and Governance Structures33:55 Skill Sets for Successful Project Delivery35:39 Advice for Aspiring Project Professionals37:27 Resilience in Today's Project Challenges39:40 Future of the CDPQ Model and Its Replicability
• S9E204: AI Revolution in Project Management with Lawrence Rowland 25.08.2025 1h 42min

  In this episode, the hosts delve into the transformative role of AI in project management, discussing its evolution, practical applications, and the challenges of adoption. They explore the emergence of AI agents, their impact on consulting, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI integration in the workplace. The conversation also touches on the future of work, organisational changes, and the potential breakthroughs that AI may bring to the industry. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the interplay between knowledge, AI, and human experience. They discuss the importance of sharing knowledge, the balance between technology and human interaction, and the potential for AI to enhance project management. The dialogue also delves into philosophical perspectives on AI, the future of work, and the role of education in bridging the gap between technology and human understanding. The speakers emphasise the need for experimentation, collaboration, and a human-centric approach to technology, ultimately advocating for a fun and exploratory mindset in navigating the evolving landscape of AI.Key Takeaways People often feel stiffed by societal advances.Experimentation is key in understanding AI's capabilities.Building in public fosters confidence and knowledge sharing.AI should give us more time for human interaction.The transition to AI will be challenging for many.Humans often get in the way of technological progress.Education systems are struggling to adapt to AI.Generative models in AI mirror human intelligence.The meaning of life is not limited to intelligence.Chapters03:32 The Evolution of AI in Project Management06:16 Exploring AI Agents and Their Applications09:12 Practical Experiences with AI Agents11:54 The Future of Consulting and AI Integration14:31 The Role of AI in Organizational Structures17:32 Futurescaping: The Future of AI in Projects20:13 Overcoming Resistance to AI Adoption23:09 The Ethical Considerations of AI in Projects36:30 Creating Value in the Age of AI40:04 The Disappearance of Intermediaries44:05 The Future of Work and AI48:39 AI in Project Management53:55 Knowledge Transfer and AI01:06:22 Balancing Technology and Human Interaction01:09:52 The Future of AI and Human Interaction01:14:11 Ethics and Rights of AI01:17:24 Understanding AI's Role in Society01:24:30 Education and AI: Bridging the Gap01:33:53 Generative Intelligence: Human vs AI
• S9E203: Delivering Projects with a Product Lifecycle Management lens with John Ryan 11.08.2025 47min

  In this episode of the Project Chatter Podcast, Dale and Martin are joined by John Ryan, a seasoned project director and construction technology leader, to discuss the intricacies of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM). John shares his extensive background in engineering and project management, emphasising the importance of understanding both capital expenditure (CapEx) and operational expenditure (OpEx) in project delivery. The conversation delves into the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in PLM, the challenges faced by UK infrastructure projects, and the need for incentivisation in project delivery. John also highlights the lessons that can be learned from manufacturing industries, the significance of maintenance in project planning, and the role of circular economies in promoting sustainability. The episode concludes with a discussion on the impact of software and data ownership in lifecycle management, encouraging listeners to take small steps towards sustainability in their own practices.Takeaways📍 Product Lifecycle Management is essential for project success.📍 Understanding CapEx and OpEx is crucial for effective project management.📍 Incentivising maintenance can lead to long-term cost savings.📍 UK infrastructure projects face significant challenges that need addressing.📍 Manufacturing industries provide valuable lessons for construction and project management.📍 Maintenance should be integrated into project planning from the outset.📍 Circular economies can enhance sustainability in project delivery.📍 Environmental impacts must be considered in lifecycle cost assessments.📍 Software obsolescence is a growing concern in product lifecycle management.📍 Everyone can contribute to sustainability efforts in their own way.Chapters04:15 John Ryan's Engineering Journey06:06 Understanding Product Lifecycle Management14:53 Roles and Responsibilities in Product Management17:44 Challenges in UK Infrastructure Projects20:28 Incentivizing Better Design and Maintenance23:01 Future of Maintenance in Project Management24:23 Cost-Cutting and Operational Efficiency31:47 Understanding Circular Economies35:30 The Role of Government in Sustainability39:09 Environmental Impact and Lifecycle Management43:54 The Future of Data and Software in Product LifecycleLinkshttps://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-83571-1_14https://www.symterra.co.uk/
• S9E202: How to be a World Class Scheduler without opening the Schedule with Micah Piippo 28.07.2025 45min

  In this episode of the Project Chatter podcast, Dale speaks with Micah Piippo, a leading voice in construction planning and scheduling. They discuss the evolving role of AI in project management, the importance of understanding the fundamentals of scheduling, and how to effectively review and validate schedules without getting lost in the details. Micah shares insights on common mistakes in project meetings, the significance of critical path and float, and the necessity of resource loading. The conversation also touches on contractual considerations and the importance of commissioning plans in project delivery.Takeaways💥 AI is revolutionizing project planning and scheduling.💥 Understanding the role of a scheduler is crucial for project success.💥 Common mistakes in project meetings can derail progress.💥 The schedule is fundamentally a mathematical calculation.💥 Critical path and float are essential concepts in scheduling.💥 Resource loading should be tailored to project needs.💥 Contractual specifications guide scheduling processes.💥 Effective communication between owners and contractors is vital.💥 Commissioning plans should be established early in the project.💥 Project leaders should focus on forecasting and data-driven decisions.Links Beyond Deadlines: https://youtube.com/@beyonddeadlines?si=HfE1Mosc2oL9o2v1
• S9E201: The Healing Power of Laughter with Barry Hilton 11.07.2025 52min

  In this episode, Barry Hilton, a renowned South African comedian, shares his journey through comedy and mental health. He discusses the importance of vulnerability, humor, and resilience in addressing mental health issues. Barry emphasizes the need for open conversations about mental health, recognizing signs of distress, and the cultural differences in how mental health is perceived. He also highlights the importance of teaching resilience to the younger generation and the role of community and connection in overcoming struggles.TakeawaysBarry Hilton is a celebrated comedian with a career spanning over four decades.He emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in discussing mental health.Humor serves as a powerful tool for resilience and coping with life's challenges.Recognizing signs of mental health issues is crucial for seeking help.Cultural perceptions of mental health can vary significantly.Connection and community play vital roles in mental health support.Teaching resilience to children is essential for their development.Barry's personal experiences highlight the struggles many face with mental health.Open conversations about mental health can help reduce stigma.It's important to own your struggles and seek professional help when needed.Chapters05:24 Barry's Journey to Comedy and Mental Health Awareness09:05 The Impact of Mental Health on Performers15:15 Using Humor to Address Serious Topics20:21 The Role of ADHD and Dyslexia in Creativity25:33 Owning Your Struggles and Vulnerability26:57 The Autobiography of Comedy28:18 Recognizing Mental Health Signs30:43 The Spiral of Loneliness32:58 Conversations About Mental Health34:22 The Importance of Directness36:57 Understanding Stress and Resilience39:11 Cultural Differences in Communication45:18 Teaching Resilience to the Next Generation49:01 The Power of Ownership in Mental HealthGet in touch with Barry:https://barryhilton.com/sandybarryhilton@gmail.com