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325: Why Public Sector Projects Really Fail with Matthew Oleniuk
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Welcome to the PMO Strategies Podcast + Blog, where PMO leaders become IMPACT Drivers!
PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills
Public sector projects rarely fail because of bad process. They fail because of behaviors no one is willing to confront.
In this episode, I’m joined by Matthew Oleniuk, senior public sector delivery advisor, oversight leader, and founder of TheRiskInsider.com. With 15+ years managing politically sensitive, billion-dollar projects, Matthew brings a refreshingly blunt perspective on what it really takes to lead under pressure.
We break down how project failure in the public sector often has nothing to do with method and everything to do with misaligned culture, disengaged leadership, and risks buried under “green” dashboards.
This episode is a candid roadmap for project professionals working in highly structured, politically charged environments who are tired of pretending the system is enough and ready to start delivering anyway.
What You'll Learn:
- Why green dashboards can hide red-flag behaviors that derail delivery.
- How to stop mistaking oversight for progress.
- Why real risks don’t show up on a register and how to name them anyway.
- How courageous delivery leaders create “mini-cultures” of performance.
- What to do when the culture rewards compliance over outcomes.
- The one question every PMO should ask before creating a new tool or report.
Press play to learn how real delivery happens when you confront what the process alone can’t fix.
Connect with Matthew:
Get early access on his course
Download the Public Sector Project Health Check
P.S. If your PMO is still chasing tasks instead of driving strategy, it’s time for a reset. Join me October 15–16 for the IMPACT Engine Practitioner Course—a live, virtual two-day certification program designed to help you deliver real business value, not just reports. Seats are limited, so reserve yours now.
Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!
I welcome your feedback and insights!
I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!
Warmly,
Laura Barnard
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Mentioned in this episode:
325: MATTHEW OLENIUK - Beyond Process: Why Public Sector Projects Fail
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