Best P31 Consulting Llc Podcasts (2025)

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Internal Advisor: Listener Q&A 33:00

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22d ago33:00

33:00

The episode opens up the 'listener mailbag', where the hosts respond to questions from both novice consultants and seasoned veterans. Listeners asked us about moving fast vs. slowing things down, handling politically sensitive findings, avoiding 'paralysis by diagnosis' and even the idealism of 'humanity in consulting' - what a notion!…

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Critical Thinking for Future Solutions 48:41

1M ago48:41

48:41

In this episode, Mike and Ian continue their Strategic Partner series, focusing on the indispensable skill of critical thinking as it pertains to developing viable solutions. They advocate for a methodical evaluation of problems, coupled with a creative exploration of potential solutions that account for the complexities of organizational dynamics.…

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Internal Advisor: Understanding Before Being Understood 51:15

2M ago51:15

51:15

This episode delves into the intricacies of strategic partnerships and the essential skill of problem diagnosis. Through a deliberate examination of the concept of 'Understanding before Being Understood,' Ian & Mike explore the significance of diagnosing issues prior to formulating solutions. They draw from established frameworks, such as Stephen C…

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Internal Advisors: Elevating Consulting Through Effective Questioning 50:36

2M ago50:36

50:36

This episode emphasizes the paramount importance of asking better questions as a foundational skill for consultants striving to become strategic partners within their organizations. We delve into the significance of transitioning from an answer-centric mindset to one that prioritizes inquiry, thereby fostering deeper understanding and enhancing pro…

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Elevating the Internal Advisor Mindset: From Reactive to Strategic 45:50

3M ago45:50

45:50

The principal focus of this podcast episode is the internal advisor mindset, which emphasizes the importance of recognizing and enhancing one's consultative capabilities within organizational contexts. As we delve deeper into our "Becoming a Strategic Partner" series, we explore how professionals can cultivate a more intentional approach to their r…

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Strategic Partner - Building Trust without Authority 47:04

3M ago47:04

47:04

The inaugural episode of our four-part series delves into the essential theme of building trust without authority, a crucial skill for internal advisors and consultants alike. Building trust is paramount for effective communication and ensuring that insights and recommendations have the desired impact. Throughout our discussion, we explore strategi…

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Solo Consultants: Managing Your Work 45:38

3M ago45:38

45:38

We talk about how solo consultants can mitigate the risks associated with erratic service quality and inconsistent project delivery. We examine the challenges posed by scope creep and the psychological burdens it places on consultants who feel compelled to overextend themselves in an effort to please clients. The metaphorical representation of 'swa…

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Solo Consultants: Managing Your Clients 42:08

4M ago42:08

42:08

Ian and Mikes solopreneur discussion progresses to the pivotal theme of client managment. We talk about qualification and the dangers of accepting poor-fit clients. We discuss how solo consultants possess the unique advantage of selectively choosing their clientele, which can lead to greater satisfaction and success in their endeavors. Throughout t…

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Solo Consultants: Managing Yourself 33:50

5M ago33:50

33:50

The latest installment of the Consulting for Humans podcast delves into the intricacies of managing oneself as a solo consultant. The hosts, Ian and Mike, initiate the discussion by addressing the myriad challenges that independent consultants face, emphasizing the importance of self-management in achieving success. They highlight the high failure …

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Strategic Escalation? Or just delegating upwards? 40:46

5M ago40:46

40:46

In this episode, we delve into upward delegation, a crucial yet often overlooked skill in the consulting realm. We explore the methodologies and rationale behind seeking guidance and support from senior colleagues or subject matter experts, emphasizing the necessity of this practice for effective project execution and successful outcomes. Along the…

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Delegation for Consultants (with a minute to spare) 39:26

6M ago39:26

39:26

This episode delves into the critical topic of delegation within the consulting profession. Ian & Mike examine the significance of delegation as a fundamental skill that not only enhances management efficacy but also contributes to the overall success of consulting teams. Through our discussion, we elucidate the complexities surrounding effective d…

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One-Minute Recommendations - and an announcement 22:24

6M ago22:24

22:24

Ian and Mike delve into the intricate art of crafting effective consulting recommendations, emphasizing the necessity for clarity and conciseness. We explore the concept of the "One-Minute Recommendation," based on the much-loved "One-Minute Manager" approach by Ken Blanchard. Our goal is to avoid consultants' natural tendency to overwhelm clients …

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Unlocking Consulting Skills in Non-Consultants: What We Discovered 20:22

6M ago20:22

20:22

This episode delves into the transformative experience of imparting consulting skills to individuals within a corporate setting. We, Mike and Ian, recount our recent workshops designed to elevate the consulting capabilities of functional and technical experts who may not identify as consultants. Our discourse highlights the intrinsic motivation of …

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One Minute Scope: Scoping Strategies for Consultants 31:49

7M ago31:49

31:49

The podcast delves into the intricate dynamics of consulting by focusing on the concept of 'scope' within project management, utilizing the framework established by Ken Blanchard in his seminal work, 'The One Minute Manager.' The discussion is anchored on the premise that consultants often grapple with the challenge of articulating project objectiv…

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Questions and Answers 33:35

7M ago33:35

33:35

In this podcast episode, we listener questions, covering themes such as: establishing trust in consulting relationships practical strategies for new consultants to effectively build connections understanding a client's organizational culture changes in diversity in the consulting workplace ambition and career growth in consulting ... and more! You …

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Navigating Consulting in the Digital Age: A Gen Z Perspective 34:59

7M ago34:59

34:59

The discussion presented in this podcast episode revolves around the perspectives and experiences of Amanee, a Gen Z consultant, as she shares insights into her journey within the consulting industry. Amanee articulates the challenges and opportunities she encountered while commencing her career during the tumultuous period of COVID-19, emphasizing…

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Millenials: Talking About My Consulting Generation 35:08

7M ago35:08

35:08

The central theme of this episode revolves around the distinctive values and perspectives of Generation Y, colloquially known as Millennials, within the consulting profession. We engage in an illuminating dialogue with our esteemed guest, Mafe Escobar, who shares her unique insights as a millennial consultant. Throughout our discussion, we explore …

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Generation X: Consulting Gurus? 29:00

8M ago29:00

29:00

This episode delves into the complexities of Generation X within the consulting industry, exploring their unique attitudes toward work, technology, and professional development. Ian and Mike illuminate how this generation, born between 1965 and 1980, has significantly benefitted from the growth of the consulting sector since the 1990s. The discussi…

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A Baby Boomer and a Gen X walk into a bar ... 27:09

8M ago27:09

27:09

This podcast episode delves into the generational shifts within the consulting profession, specifically focusing on the Baby Boomer generation. We explore the motivations that drew them to consulting, examining the societal and intellectual awakenings that shaped their perspectives during a tumultuous era. The conversation encompasses their experie…

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Navigating the Nuances of Business Casual: Insights for Modern Consultants 25:39

8M ago25:39

25:39

Exploring the intricate relationship between attire and professional identity within the consulting industry, this episode delves into the evolution of dress codes in the wake of significant societal shifts, particularly the transition from formality to casualness. The discussion navigates through historical contexts, emphasizing how earlier conven…

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Unlocking Consulting Superpowers: What Would You Choose? 30:02

8M ago30:02

30:02

Consultants often dream of possessing extraordinary abilities to enhance their effectiveness in the field, and this episode explores the superpowers they wish they had. From superhuman knowledge and mind reading to time travel and mind control, Ian and Mike delve into the whimsical yet insightful nature of these desires. They discuss how these powe…

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Ancient Wisdom for Modern Consultants: Discovering Jerry Weinberg's Secrets 25:43

8M ago25:43

25:43

We dive into the intriguing world of consulting wisdom inspired by Gerald M. Weinberg's classic book, "Secrets of Consulting." The main takeaway is Weinberg's "third time charm law," which suggests that consultants are most effective on the third project with a client, as trust and understanding build over time. We also explore the importance of se…

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You're On Mute: The Art of Knowing When to Speak Up 42:59

9M ago42:59

42:59

Navigating the delicate balance of when to speak and when to remain silent is a common challenge faced by consultants, especially those at the beginning of their careers. This episode delves into the pressures and complexities of contributing effectively in meetings, highlighting how clarity of purpose can empower individuals to find their voice. M…

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Consultants and Language: The Good, the Bad, and the Impenetrable 22:59

9M ago22:59

22:59

Consultants often fall into the trap of using jargon and complex language that can alienate clients and colleagues alike. This episode explores the peculiarities of consulting language, highlighting the overuse of acronyms, convoluted phrases, and military metaphors that clutter communication. Ian and Mike discuss the importance of clarity and simp…

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Jingle Bells and Consulting Tales: The Holiday Episode You Didn't Know You Needed 27:39

9M ago27:39

27:39

Mike and Ian share personal anecdotes that highlight the challenges of balancing work commitments with holiday celebrations, including a memorable New Year's Eve spent in a hotel room rather than with family. They also discuss the importance of camaraderie during firm holiday parties, and finally the hosts review some quirky last-minute holiday gif…

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Networking: Three Things You Need to Know 19:48

10M ago19:48

19:48

Networking is a crucial yet often challenging aspect of consulting that many professionals struggle with. Ian and Mike dive into the mindset surrounding networking, emphasizing that it doesn't have to be a sleazy or pushy activity but can instead be a natural and enjoyable way to connect with others. They discuss three essential levels of networkin…

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From Data to Decisions: Embracing Imperfection for Better Outcomes 30:51

10M ago30:51

30:51

Consultants often find themselves overly focused on achieving perfect numbers, but this Luminaries episode emphasizes the importance of accepting good enough data to make informed decisions. Ian, Mike, and special guest Anne Fraser discuss the challenges junior consultants face when dealing with ambiguity and imperfect information, highlighting tha…

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Consultants and Numbers 22:58

10M ago22:58

22:58

Mike and Ian tackle the complex dynamics of consulting through the lens of numerical analysis, raising critical questions about the utility and implications of quantifying consulting work. They share their thoughts into how the obsession with numbers can sometimes obscure the bigger picture, leading to detrimental outcomes such as miscommunication …

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Consulting News Higlights 21:32

10M ago21:32

21:32

Ian and Mike take a look at recent news items from around the consulting industry, reviewing both economic trends and the human factors that shape workplace dynamics. Mike and Ian unpack the recent fluctuations in consulting revenue and client spending, drawing attention to the broader implications of these changes for consultants. They discuss how…

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Luminaries: More hard work, or less? 34:15

10M ago34:15

34:15

The latest discussion among the Luminaries delves into a provocative inquiry: is the ideal consultant characterized by hard work or laziness? The episode explores the dichotomy between these two traits, questioning the conventional wisdom that associates diligence with success. The hosts, Mike and Ian, reflect on their experiences in consulting, po…

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Luminaries: From Chaos to Clarity 32:39

11M ago32:39

32:39

Consultants often find themselves navigating the delicate balance between the need for certainty and the ability to cope with ambiguity. This episode explores the intriguing question of whether the best consultants are those who embrace uncertainty and explore multiple perspectives or those who adhere strictly to established methodologies. As we de…

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The Perfect Consultant, Part 4 - Hard work vs. Laziness 15:40

11M ago15:40

15:40

This episode of Consulting for Humans tackles the intriguing dichotomy between hard work and laziness in the consulting profession. The hosts, Ian and Mike, explore whether being a hardworking consultant is truly a virtue or if there’s merit in a more judicious, "lazy" approach. They discuss how the culture of long hours and constant busyness can l…

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Luminaries: From Imposter to Advisor 31:37

11M ago31:37

31:37

This podcast for our Luminaries looks at the essential balance between confidence and humility for consultants, highlighting how these qualities can significantly impact their effectiveness. Along the way they touch on self-help books, imposter syndrome, mindsets for growth and a nerdy Roman emperor. Mike and Ian explore the rarity of consultants w…

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The Perfect Consultant, Part 3 - Certainty or Ambiguity? 21:05

11M ago21:05

21:05

Mike and Ian explore interplay of certainty and ambiguity , as they dissect what it truly means to be an effective consultant. We introduce the concept of 'swagging,' where the ability to make 'scientific wild ass guesses' becomes a vital skill in the consultant's toolkit. Next we dig into the practical implications of managing ambiguity in client …

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Luminaries: Brainwaves and Breakthroughs 33:23

11M ago33:23

33:23

This podcast for our Luminaries delves into the intriguing balance between analytical thinking and creativity in consulting. Mike and Ian explore various aspects such as recruitment strategies, intuition, and the importance of thinking fast versus thinking slow. They also examine how analytical skills and creativity can be developed through practic…

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The Perfect Consultant, Part 2 - Humility or Confidence? 22:53

11M ago22:53

22:53

Confidence and humility often stand at odds in the world of consulting, yet they are both essential traits for success. Confidence can inspire clients, while humility allows for genuine connections and collaboration, right? Ian and Mike explore the delicate balance between projecting confidence and maintaining humility, questioning whether the over…

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Consulting for Humans - Trailer 2:18

11M ago2:18

2:18

Ian Bradley and Mike Shank introduce their podcast, Consulting for Humans - all about the trials, tribulations and triumphs of life in consulting. Join us!By P31 Consulting LLC

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The Perfect Consultant, Part 1 - Analytics or Creativity? 22:54

11M ago22:54

22:54

Discover what it takes to be the perfect consultant as Mike and Ian explore the intriguing balance between analytical skills and creativity. They delve into the dichotomies that define successful consultants, such as being both analytical and creative, confident yet humble, certain while embracing ambiguity, and hardworking without crossing into la…