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This Is NOT What I Signed Up For

This Is NOT What I Signed Up For

Written by: Ross Saunders
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About this listen

A survival-guide podcast for the new or first-time manager, having been promoted from technical specialist to leading people. Teaching you how to swim, so you don't sink!

© 2026 Ross G Saunders
Economics Management Management & Leadership Science Self-Help Social Sciences Success
Episodes
  • Trust and Influence from Your Voice
    Feb 11 2026

    In this episode, Ross Saunders interviews David Goldberg, CEO of Edge Studio, discussing the critical role of voice in establishing trust and influence in the workplace. David emphasizes that many individuals lack training in effective communication, which can hinder their professional growth. He shares insights on how voice affects performance, the importance of understanding one's speaking habits, and practical tips for improving public speaking skills. The conversation highlights the need for tailored techniques to enhance communication and build trust with audiences.

    Takeaways:

    • Voice is the most direct connection we have to our listener.
    • Many people are not taught how to use their voices effectively.
    • Understanding your speaking habits can lead to better communication.
    • Voice can significantly impact performance in the workplace.
    • There is no one right way to communicate; it depends on the audience and situation.
    • Tailored techniques are essential for effective speaking.
    • Attention to detail in speaking can enhance trust and credibility.
    • The audience is often unaware of what you planned to say.
    • Practicing public speaking can help reduce anxiety.
    • Building trust is crucial for leadership and influence.

    About David:

    David Goldberg helps people build trust with strategic words, speaking patterns, and presence.

    His one-of-a-kind techniques are used by over 10,000 CEOs, politicians, entrepreneurs, podcasters, and job seekers—whether on stage, on camera, on mic, online, & in person.

    He's also CEO of EdgeStudio.com, an international voiceover recording & training company based in Times Square, New York City, that’s recorded over 13,000 projects for brands including AT&T, Google, & Microsoft.

    https://edgestudio.com/about-david-goldberg

    About your host, Ross:

    Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries.

    Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat

    License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW

    Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat

    License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW

    Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released.

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    29 mins
  • Remote Working like a Boss
    Jan 28 2026

    In this episode, Ross Saunders interviews Dan Snow about the intricacies of remote work, exploring personal insights, the evolution of remote work pre and post-COVID, effective management strategies for remote teams, and the importance of building relationships in a virtual environment. They discuss the challenges of hiring and firing remotely, managing client expectations, and the essential tools that facilitate remote work. The conversation emphasizes the need for structured communication, peer support, and the balance between personal and professional life in a remote setting.

    Takeaways:

    • Remote work can lead to unexpected creative solutions.
    • Taking breaks can enhance productivity and idea generation.
    • Structured communication is key for remote team management.
    • Peer support fosters relationships and trust among team members.
    • Difficult conversations can be easier in a virtual setting.
    • Hiring remotely lacks the nuanced understanding of candidates.
    • Tools like Calendly streamline client communication across time zones.
    • Google Drive provides essential access to files from anywhere.
    • Building personal connections is crucial in remote work environments.
    • Flexibility in work location can enhance job satisfaction.

    About Dan:

    Dan created motion sensitive mini-boards for Five Alive, engineered a 20-foot foosball table for FIFA Street Activation, and grew Hyundai Auto Canada's page from zero to 54,000 in less than a month. He has internally restructured a $3M advertising agency, and built process, strategic frameworks, and teams from scratch.

    Now he works with sales team-led B2B companies to help them grow, tell their story, all while looking smart and beautiful. He has a full-service agency comprised of consultants, small businesses, and subject matter experts to help clients shine.

    https://www.snowcollective.ca

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielsnow/

    About your host, Ross:

    Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries.

    Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat

    License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW

    Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat

    License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW

    Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released.

    Follow me on LinkedIn
    Follow me on Instagram

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    31 mins
  • Lessons from a Business Coach
    Jan 14 2026

    In this episode, Ross interviews Brent Spilkin, a seasoned business coach with a rich background in various industries. They discuss Brent's journey from running a food manufacturing business to becoming a successful coach, emphasizing the importance of communication, managing upwards, and balancing feedback in management. Brent shares valuable insights on how new managers can navigate their roles effectively, manage relationships, and foster a positive work environment while addressing challenges.

    Takeaways:

    • Good managers adapt their communication style based on their audience.
    • Understanding the motivations of team members is crucial for effective management.
    • New managers should frame their communication to align with business goals.
    • Balancing positive and negative feedback is essential for team morale.
    • Managing upwards involves understanding what your boss needs to succeed.
    • Providing solutions rather than just problems is key for new managers.
    • Recognizing successes is as important as addressing challenges.
    • The 'Cobra and Puppies' principle highlights the need for balanced communication.
    • Creating a culture of problem-solving empowers team members.

    About Brent:

    Brent Spilkin, affectionately called “Spillly with 3 Ls” has spent the last 25-odd years discovering what makes him happy besides architecture, driving ambulances, pickling mango achaar, distribution and redeveloping the inner city. He now gets his kicks from growing talented creative individuals and entrepreneurs in their businesses around the world by putting them through his business coaching methodology.

    https://spillly.com

    About your host, Ross:

    Ross started his management career by being promoted from technical specialist to manager of a global team. This was not an easy transition at first but it blossomed into an exciting management career spanning over a decade in corporate and enterprise software environments. Ross has managed development teams, technical teams, call centres, and entire software divisions across several countries.

    Intro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat

    License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW

    Outro music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

    https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/vacation-beat

    License code: WM2CBDQ0C2W0JGBW

    Enjoyed the episode? Sign up for my newsletter on www.thisisnotwhatisignedupfor.com to get blog posts, new episodes, eCourses, and other content as it's released.

    Follow me on LinkedIn
    Follow me on Instagram

    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
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