The PMO Playbook

Socratic Method in Project Management: 3 Questions That Changed How I Run Every Project

What if the most powerful tool in your project management toolkit isn't a software, a template, or a certification — it's a question? In this 15-minute sprint episode, host Tiffany introduces the Socratic Method and breaks down exactly how to use it on your projects, in your stakeholder meetings, and with your team — starting today. If you've ever walked out of a meeting feeling like nobody listened, or watched a project spiral because stakeholders couldn't align, this episode is going to shift how you operate. In this episode, you'll learn: * What the Socratic Method actually is and why it works in high-stakes project environments * How to use strategic questioning to shut down scope creep without creating conflict * The exact question to ask a resistant stakeholder that gets them to buy in — on their own terms * How to separate fact from assumption when your team is stuck in problem-solving mode This isn't theory. Tiffany walks through a real client scenario where asking the right question changed the outcome of an entire project. If this episode resonated, share it with a PM in your network who needs to hear it — and follow @project43consulting on Instagram for more tools, frameworks, and real talk about what project management actually looks like in the field.

So You Want to Be a Project Manager? Here's What Nobody Tells You

Thinking about transitioning into project management? Before you enroll in another course or sign up for a certification exam, listen to this first. In this 15-minute sprint episode, host Tiffany breaks down the real truth about breaking into project management — the stuff that doesn't show up in study guides or job descriptions. Whether you're leaving corporate, pivoting from marketing, operations, education, or creative work, the experience you already have is more valuable than you think. You just need to know how to position it. In this episode, you'll learn: * Why the shift from "doer" to "orchestrator" is the hardest — and most important — mindset change in your PM journey * How to translate your existing experience into language that hiring managers actually respond to * The one tool you should know before you start applying * Why jumping straight to the PMP exam could slow you down instead of speed you up This episode is for the career pivoter who is tired of being told they're not qualified. You've been managing projects. It's time to get paid for it. Follow Tiffany on Instagram @project43consulting for PM tips, behind-the-scenes consulting content, and resources to help you make the pivot with confidence.

2026 Intentions: Future of PMO Playbook, A New Season and more

In this episode, Tiffany from Project 43 Consulting reflects on her journey through 2025 and sets her intentions for 2026. She shares her transition from contract work to becoming a full-time employee, highlighting the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way. Tiffany expresses her excitement about building a team and creating a staffing agency aimed at helping Black women find job opportunities across various industries. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and her desire to support others in their career journeys. As the conversation progresses, Tiffany discusses the evolving landscape of project management, particularly the increasing interest from individuals in different fields wanting to transition into this area. She warns against rushing into certifications like the PMP without adequate experience, stressing the importance of real-life project management skills. Tiffany also touches on the role of technology, particularly AI, in enhancing project management efficiency and her plans to further integrate these tools into her work. Overall, the episode serves as a motivational call to action for listeners to embrace new opportunities and prepare for the future. 00:00 Welcome Back and Setting Intentions 01:43 Transitioning to Full-Time Employment 03:21 Building a Staffing Agency 04:39 Managing Life and Projects 06:24 The Growing Interest in Project Management 08:31 Understanding the PMP Exam 11:05 Integrating AI in Project Management 12:52 Encouragement for the Laid Off and Creative Income Ideas 14:27 Hobbies and Future Plans for 2026

2025 Year Review: Overcoming Burnout, Contractor Life, & Finding Balance

In this reflective year-end episode, Tiffany shares behind the scenes of her 2025 — from navigating her first full year as a full-time contractor to exploring the realities of being capped at 40 hours versus charging for overtime. She dives into the lessons of working W2 versus C2C, holiday burnout, and her biggest challenge right now. Tiffany also shares what she’s currently reading (F**k Being Humble), how Start with Why shaped her mindset, and her recent discovery of “the Socratic method.” Plus, she highlights her favorite launches of the year, thoughts on Gunna, the WNBA’s glow-up, the Emma Grede x Tracee Ellis Ross podcast, and the brilliance of Ami Colé. To wrap it up, Tiffany gives a peek into her vision for the future of her podcast and what’s next in 2026.

Life Update, Summer Break, Project Management Case Studies

In today's episode, we discuss a well needed summer break and upcoming episodes. In Season 2 you can expect, expert guest appearances to exploring new topics like sports marketing and evergreen content creation, this podcast is your go-to resource for thriving in the PMO landscape. Whether you're a seasoned project manager or just starting out, tune in for authentic conversations, valuable takeaways, and a community that supports your growth. Stay tuned for more episodes that inspire and empower!