In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, sits down with a true pioneer of modern business-case development: Joe Flanagan, architect of the Five Case Model and author of internationally adopted guidance for programme and project business cases.

Across a remarkable 45-year career in public service - from HM Treasury to NHS Wales - Joe has helped shape how governments and organisations think, plan, appraise, and invest. Now retired (in theory at least), he continues to support the global Better Business Case community as joint Chief Examiner.

Richard and Joe explore the real purpose of a business case, why proportionality matters, and how the Five Case Model helps decision-makers think “slowly but quickly” by structuring complex choices. Joe shares stories from decades of experience, including surprising workshop outcomes, challenges in major national programmes like IT modernisation and HS2, and how strategic portfolios, options analysis, and the “five Ps” (procurement, project, program, portfolio, policy) create the essential “golden thread” for successful investment.

Joe proceeds to clarify when rigorous analysis is essential and when a lighter touch is more appropriate. He unpacks why organisations so often blur the lines between projects, programmes, and portfolios, and how early scoping, skilled facilitation, and having the right stakeholders in the room can prevent costly misalignment.

Whether you're a practitioner, senior leader, policymaker, or simply curious about how major decisions get made, this conversation offers deep insight into the methods, thinking, and discipline required for robust, defensible business cases.

LINKS:

🌐 Find out more about the Better Business Cases certification: https://apmg-international.com/product/better-business-cases

🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/certifications-solutions

In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, speaks with Peter Beven about why so many transformation efforts fail, and what leaders must do differently to keep their organisations competitive. Peter challenges conventional thinking, arguing that most organisations still treat people development as an afterthought, even though capability is the single biggest driver of value in any transformation.

Throughout the conversation, Peter unpacks why “digital transformation” is a misleading label, why traditional L&D approaches no longer work, and how organisations can avoid falling into the trap of change for change’s sake. He highlights the uncomfortable truth that nearly half of corporate training investment is wasted, and draws a clear line between poor capability planning and the high failure rate of major projects.

Peter also tackles the rapid rise of AI, explaining the shift from automation to augmentation and why leaders who are only now paying attention may already be behind the curve. He emphasises the growing importance of systems thinking, durable skills, and a culture that enables experimentation; while warning that some industries, including large consulting firms, may struggle to adapt fast enough.

Whether you’re leading a transformation, preparing your workforce for an AI-driven future, or rethinking how to build capability that truly contributes to strategic outcomes, this episode offers a refreshingly direct and thought-provoking perspective. Listen in to explore how to build organisations that are agile, innovative, and ready for what’s coming next.

🔗 Connect with Peter: linkedin.com/in/pbeven
🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/certifications-solutions

In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG, speaks with Agnieszka Bochacka, a global leader in digital transformation, academic director, consultant, and author of the world’s first certified digital transformation methodology.

With over a decade of international experience, Agnieszka shares her unique journey from project management to strategy and change leadership across sectors.

A passionate advocate for women in tech, Agnieszka also mentors future leaders, supports start-ups in Central and Eastern Europe, and contributes to communities like PMI and Singularity University. Her proprietary organisational transformation audit model — the subject of PhD research — blends human and technological perspectives for holistic change.

Agnieszka challenges common misconceptions around digital transformation, explaining why it's not just an IT project or one-off initiative, but a continuous, strategic process embedded in an organisation’s DNA. She offers actionable insights on integrating technology with culture, upskilling, and leadership, and highlights why empathy and lifelong learning are essential in today’s rapidly evolving landscape.

Whether you're a business leader, transformation professional, or simply curious about what makes real transformation succeed, this episode delivers practical wisdom and deep strategic insight.

🔗 Connect with Agnieszka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abochacka/
🌐 Find out more about the Digital Transformation certification: apmg-international.com/product/digital-transformation-certification
🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/certifications-solutions

In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, speaks with Jessica Crow, founder of Apogy, about the keys to making change stick.

Too often, organisations invest in change initiatives that fail to take root. Jessica shares her insights on why traditional approaches fall short and what leaders can do to drive real, lasting adoption.

Drawing from her extensive experience in change management, Jessica explains the psychology behind resistance, the role of leadership in fostering buy-in, and practical strategies to ensure that new ways of working become the norm. She emphasises the importance of engagement, communication, and aligning change with organisational culture to create meaningful impact.

Whether you’re leading a transformation, implementing a new system, or simply looking to influence positive change in your organization, this conversation will give you the tools to turn ideas into sustained action.

Listen in to discover how to move beyond implementation and make change that lasts.

LINKS:
🔗 Connect with Jessica: linkedin.com/in/jessicacrow
🌐 Find out more about the Change Management Certification: apmg-international.com/product/change-management
🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/services/certifications-solutions

In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, speaks with Stephen Jenner, a globally recognised expert in benefits and portfolio management. Dubbed the “Rottweiler of Benefits Management,” Steve has built a career transforming how organisations approach project portfolios.

From his time in the UK government—where his benefits-led approach won the prestigious Civil Service Finance Award—to his work as a consultant, keynote speaker, and author, Steve has seen it all.

Steve shares candid insights on the crucial role of portfolio management in today’s complex business environment. He explains the importance of "doing the right projects, at the right time, in the right way," and why organisations often fail to prioritise effectively.

We dive deep into challenges like managing resource constraints, competing priorities, and the phenomenon of "ghost" and "zombie" projects that refuse to end.

Steve also introduces the concept of "strategic buckets" to compare seemingly incomparable projects, from IT systems to new buildings.

This conversation is packed with practical advice for anyone looking to optimise their project portfolios and align them with broader organisational strategies.

Tune in to this exciting episode for valuable insights from one of the field’s leading authorities.

LINKS:
🔗 Connect with Steve: linkedin.com/in/stephen-jenner
🌐 Find out more about the Managing Portfolios Certification: apmg-international.com/product/managing-portfolios-certification
🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/services/certifications-solutions

In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, speaks with Mike Battistella, President and CTO of Solutions3, an award-winning consulting and training organisation.

They discuss the critical misconceptions organisations have about cybersecurity, particularly the belief that passing a compliance audit equates to long-term security. Mike emphasises that compliance is merely the baseline, not the end goal. He highlights the importance of continuous improvement in cybersecurity practices, noting that organisations often neglect ongoing security measures once they pass an audit, leaving them vulnerable to breaches.

Richard asks Mike about the challenges of integrating cybersecurity in a fast-paced business environment driven by innovation and agility. Mike acknowledges the tension between speed and security, stressing the need for leadership to view cybersecurity as essential for business survival rather than just another cost. He also discusses the CPD (Create, Protect, and Deliver) model developed by the DVMS Institute, which aims to embed security into the entire lifecycle of digital business value.

The conversation touches on the need for executive sponsorship to ensure the success of cybersecurity initiatives. Mike advocates for a cultural shift within organisations, where cybersecurity is seen as integral to their operations, not just a technical requirement. This shift, he argues, is essential for protecting digital assets and maintaining customer trust in an increasingly risky digital landscape.

Listen in to discover why cybersecurity is more than just compliance.

LINKS:
🔗 Connect with Mike: linkedin.com/in/mikebattistella
🌐 Sollutions3 LLC: solutions3llc.com
🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/our-services/certifications-solutions

In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, engages in a comprehensive discussion with Terry Neal, distinguished expert in AI and cybersecurity training.

Richard opens the conversation by asking Terry for a simple definition of AI; Terry responds by explaining AI is a machine’s ability to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence.

Richard and Terry delve into the AI Practitioner Program, with Richard inquiring about its structure and objectives. Terry elaborates on how the program combines courses for AI prompt engineers and AI marketeers, culminating in a professional qualification. This program, rapidly adopted worldwide, aims to fill a critical gap in AI training and certification.

Richard also probes the societal implications of AI, questioning whether AI will replace human jobs. Terry asserts that AI will reshape rather than replace the workforce, enhancing productivity and creating new job opportunities. He underscores the importance of acquiring new skills in an AI-augmented world, including prompt engineering, data analysis, and human-AI collaboration.

The conversation further explores the potential risks of generative AI, with Richard asking about concerns like cybercrime and deep fakes. Terry acknowledges these risks, and stresses the need for governance and standards to manage AI’s impact responsibly.

This episode provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of AI and its profound implications for the future of work and society.

Tune in to learn about the transformative power of AI and how individuals and organisations can navigate this evolving industry.

LINKS:
🔗 Connect with Terry: linkedin.com/in/terryneal
📝 Find out more about how the AI Practitioner training and certification can help you advance your career: apmg-international.com/product/artificial-intelligence-practitioner-certification-aip
🌐 Cyber skills: cyberskills.com
🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/our-services/certifications

In this episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG International, is joined by Robert den Broeder, managing director of OBM Dynamics B.V. and a seasoned coach and trainer.

Robert shares his journey from teaching service management to exploring the critical role of human behaviour in achieving management excellence. Through his extensive research and practical experience, Robert unveils how Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) can address common business challenges such as improving safety, compliance, quality, and productivity.

In our conversation, Robert discusses the significance of understanding and influencing behaviour to foster a positive organisational culture. He emphasises the importance of leaders recognising behavioural motivations and implementing simple yet effective interventions to drive desired outcomes. We explore the concepts of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Service Level Agreements (SLAs), and the emerging Experience Level Agreements (XLAs), and their impact on performance and customer satisfaction.

Robert demonstrates how OBM principles can transform leadership practices, enhance employee engagement, and ultimately lead to better customer experiences; he shares practical insights on developing leadership skills, setting precise behavioural expectations, and reinforcing positive actions to create a more motivated and productive workforce.

Tune in to learn how understanding and managing human behaviour can unlock the full potential of your organisation, making a significant difference in both employee and customer satisfaction.

LINKS:
🔗 Connect with Robert: linkedin.com/in/robertdenbroeder
📝 Find out more about how the Organizational Behaviour Management (OBM) training and certification can help you advance your career: apmg-international.com/obm
📝 Find out more about how the Experience Collab Certification and Training can help you advance your career: www.apmg-international.com/product/experience-collab-certification-and-training
🌐 OBM Dynamics: obmdynamics.nl/
🌐 Find out more about APMG certifications: apmg-international.com/our-services/certifications