The Mob Mentality Show

Latest Episodes:

The Discovery of Ignorance in Product Development: Time for a Smarter Way to Deliver Customer Value with Gary Cohen Oct 29, 2024

In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, join us as we delve into "The Discovery of Ignorance in Product Development: Time for a Smarter Way to Deliver Customer Value" with our special guest, Gary Cohen. Drawing on his rich experience across diverse sectors—from government agencies to startups—Gary brings a wealth of insight into optimizing product discovery and delivery for true customer impact.

### **Key Topics Explored: The Product Discovery and Delivery Intersection**
Even if a team is familiar with the 80/20 rule (e.g., where 80% of features go unused), how does it determine the right 20% to deliver? Gary shares strategies to tackle this challenge, advocating for a shift from traditional roadmap fixation to embracing dynamic, continuous discovery that keeps customer value at the forefront. Together, we examine the effectiveness of "strict" roadmap discipline (the practice of adhering to set timelines and objectives) and if it becomes a barrier to true innovation and customer value.

We also briefly touch on the FAST framework and its relevance to product discovery, emphasizing how collective discovery through mobbing allows teams to stay closer to evolving customer needs.

### **The Role of GenAI in Modern Product Development**
Is AI is reshaping product discovery? We explore how GenAI can be a collaborative asset for mobs, not only for code development but also for bringing value by uncovering insights into customer behavior and streamlining feature prioritization. We compare "introverted" AI and "extroverted" AI in mob environments and discusses how developing refined AI inquiry skills is key to leveraging AI’s full potential. From training mobs in nuanced prompt engineering to using AI to help drive a more lean delivery, we share ways to maximize AI's impact while maintaining expert human oversight.

### **Bootstrapping Pair and Mob Programming in Individualist Cultures**
Transitioning to collaborative programming environments such as pair or mob programming can be challenging, especially in workplaces with a culture of individuality. We offer quick tips on how to bootstrap these methods, from creating a safe space for experimentation to aligning incentives via a peer promotion process. By using context sensitive analogies, how can we influence others in the org to consider jumping into the highly effective world of mob programming?

### **Unpacking Behavioral Expectations: A Smarter Approach to Product Decisions**
Beyond the technical, we look at the behavioral side of product monitoring, asking, “What responses do we expect from our users?” Gary emphasizes the importance of behavioral prediction in discovery, cautioning against information bias and providing ways to gauge responses to feature experiments in real-time. We highlight the importance of monitoring usage data and what it reveals about customer engagement—whether a feature elicits a “wow” or a mere “meh.”

### **Takeaways for Product Managers, Engineers, and Innovators**
From continuous discovery to leveraging the art of AI prompting, Gary Cohen’s insights provide actionable advice for product managers, developers, and cross-functional teams who are ready to rethink their approach to product development and delivery. Whether you're looking to reduce waste, increase customer value, or integrate mob programming and GenAI into your workflow, this episode offers some experiments to try in your journey to achieve product success.

Don’t miss this engaging discussion filled with actionable strategies, insightful anecdotes, and forward-thinking approaches to innovation!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/od7E_M9B6gI

Goal-Centricity and Beyond Test First with Kyle Griffin Aretae Oct 22, 2024

In this exciting episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we are joined by Kyle Griffin Aretae to dive deep into the nuances of Test-Driven Development (TDD) and the crucial concept of "Goal-Centricity" in Agile practices. Kyle breaks down why TDD is so much more than just "test first" and challenges common misconceptions about this widely used development practice. If you're a software developer, Agile enthusiast, or just someone looking to refine your team's development processes, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

We explore why treating TDD as merely writing tests first misses the larger picture and how adopting a broader, more progressive approach can help your team build better, more maintainable software. Kyle shares his thoughts on the primary value proposition of TDD, focusing on **fast feedback loops** and the **refactor step** at least every 5 minutes. He explains how smaller, healthier TDD cycles allow developers to stay nimble and avoid the trap of feedback loops that last 30 minutes or more. Thus, when fast feedback loops with constant refactoring are in place as the foundation, then the "test first" aspect of TDD really shines.

Kyle also sheds light on common pitfalls, such as the misunderstanding of what it means to "do TDD" when developers claim they have 8 unit tests on 50,000 lines of code. We discusses the difference between **Cargo Cult XP (Extreme Programming)** and the real deal, as well as the critical role of **decoupling code** so tests can run in 5 seconds or less.

A key takeaway from this episode is the impact of **social programming**, TDD, and **CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery) pipelines**. We explain the importance of the "Pipeline First" principle when writing new code.

We then dive into Kyle's most controversial take on TDD: the idea that creating a **mini-plan** (a rough roadmap of what to do next) before writing tests might actually be more beneficial than strictly adhering to "test first." This, Kyle argues, leads to more robust code when integrated into strong social programming practices. We also touch on the application of **Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs** to TDD and the importance of satisfying basic development needs (like fast feedback and clean code) before tackling more complex issues.

The episode continues with a discussion on the intersection of **Goal-Centricity** and Agile. Kyle questions whether Agile methods are effective without first agreeing on a clear goal. We explore scenarios where goals are unclear or where methods are imposed without understanding the desired outcomes. Kyle shares a fascinating example of a code freeze during "Black Friday" and the unintended consequences of such decisions. We also reference a powerful quote by **Deming**, "A goal without method is cruel," explaining how the opposite can be just as problematic.

Throughout the conversation, we dive into the importance of aligning goals between management and development teams, avoiding the common trap of blindly delivering fixed requirements for bonuses, and how real Agile success comes from alignment on solving customer problems, not just ticking off tasks. Kyle emphasizes the need to start with a clear understanding of what you're trying to achieve before applying any method, whether it's Scrum or TDD.

Don't miss out on this thought-provoking episode filled with actionable insights on TDD, Agile, and effective software development. Subscribe today and tune in to hear Kyle Griffin Aretae's unique take on how to elevate your development practices!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/S7K8lSibmII

From Code to Culture: Chesterton’s Fence vs. Five Monkeys Experiment Oct 15, 2024

In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we explore the profound concept of "Chesterton’s Fence" and how it applies to software development and organizational culture. Chesterton’s Fence refers to the idea that before removing or changing a rule, tradition, or practice, one must first understand why it was put in place. We dive into this principle, discuss real-world coding examples, and contrast it with the famous "Five Monkeys Experiment," which explores how behavior and practices can irrationally persist even when the original purpose is forgotten.

🔑 **Key Topics Discussed**:

- **Chesterton's Fence**: Learn the origin and meaning behind Chesterton's classic quote: "The more modern type of reformer goes gaily up to it and says, 'I don't see the use of this; let us clear it away.' To which the more intelligent type of reformer will do well to answer: 'If you don't see the use of it, I certainly won't let you clear it away. Go away and think. Then, when you can come back and tell me that you do see the use of it, I may allow you to destroy it.'" Discover why this concept is critical in both software development and team culture.

- **Applying Chesterton’s Fence to Code**: We walk through a real-world example of legacy product code. Should you refactor, delete, or preserve existing code? Explore how understanding the original intent of code, especially in larger systems, can prevent costly mistakes.

- **When to Delete Unit Tests**: What happens when a unit test no longer seems relevant or helpful? We explore how the Chesterton's Fence principle applies to testing, discussing whether old tests should be removed or maintained, and how to balance thoroughness with agility.

- **Five Monkeys Experiment**: Chris Lucian shares insights from the famous psychological experiment that demonstrates how practices can become entrenched even when the original purpose is long forgotten. This complements the discussion of Chesterton’s Fence by examining how some habits and behaviors persist without rationale. We discuss strategies for assessing when it's time to dig deeper or when it's acceptable to move forward without full understanding. While it's important to understand why something exists, can too much time be spent analyzing before making changes?

- **Domain-Driven Design (DDD) and Behavior-Driven Development (BDD)**: We explore how principles from DDD and BDD can help teams bake the purpose and intent directly into code, making it easier to understand why a particular rule, function, or test exists in the first place.

By the end of the episode, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how Chesterton’s Fence and the Five Monkeys Experiment apply to your day-to-day decisions in software development, testing, and even team dynamics. Whether you’re dealing with legacy code, outdated tests, or long-standing team practices, this episode provides practical insights to help you make thoughtful, informed decisions.

🎥 **Subscribe and Stay Updated**: Don't miss this insightful episode! Be sure to subscribe to the Mob Mentality Show on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/a2bdNOsM_r0

Is All CD/CD Pipeline Code Instant Legacy Code? Oct 08, 2024

In this Mob Mentality Show episode, Chris Lucian and Austin Chadwick dive into the complexities of modern CI/CD (Continuous Integration / Continuous Delivery) pipeline code and IaC (Infrastructure as Code), exploring why these critical components of software delivery often exhibit the same problematic attributes as classic Legacy Code. Drawing inspiration from Michael Feathers' seminal book *Working Effectively with Legacy Code*, they analyze the paradox of cutting-edge DevOps practices turning into technical debt almost as soon as they're written.

### Episode Highlights:
- **CI/CD Pipeline Code and Legacy Code Parallels**: Why does so much CI/CD and IaC code resemble legacy code? Despite being crucial for continuous delivery and automation, CI/CD pipelines can become fragile, difficult to change, and filled with technical debt if not handled carefully. Austin and Chris discuss why this phenomenon is so common and what makes the codebases for CI/CD pipelines especially prone to these issues.
- **“Edit and Pray” vs. TDD Confidence**: Do your CI/CD changes feel like a roll of the dice? Chris and Austin compare how the lack of test-driven development (TDD) practices in CI/CD code leads to “edit and pray” scenarios. They discuss the confidence that TDD brings to traditional application development and how applying similar principles could reduce fragility in CI/CD code.

- **The Pitfalls of YAML in IaC**: Is the problem inherent to YAML? The hosts explore whether the complexity of YAML syntax and configurations is the root cause of the brittleness often found in IaC. They provide real-world examples of IaC configurations that suffer from high cyclomatic complexity—making them feel more like full-blown applications rather than simple configuration files.

- **Fear of Change in CI/CD and IaC**: Why are developers often afraid to modify CI/CD pipeline code or IaC? Chris and Austin highlight the psychological aspects of fragile infrastructure—where fear of unintended consequences and lack of fast feedback loops result in slower iterations and more bugs. They explore why these codebases are often re-written from scratch instead of extended and safely enhanced.

- **Reducing Fragility through Experiments**: The episode features a recent experiment where CI/CD pipeline code was developed in Python using TDD and separation of concerns. This case study reveals the pros and cons of less YAML and a shift towards more code-based "configurations." Could this approach be a solution to reducing brittleness in IaC and pipelines?

- **A World Without Brittle Pipelines?**: Imagine a world without fragile pipelines and brittle configuration files. Chris and Austin discuss strategies to move towards more resilient infrastructure and how teams can focus on improving feedback loops, reducing complexity, and enabling safer, faster CI/CD iterations.

Join Chris and Austin as they explore these and other crucial topics that are impacting DevOps teams around the world. Whether you're struggling with high bug rates in your pipelines, slow feedback loops, or simply want to better understand how to manage the complexity of modern infrastructure, this episode is for you!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/3Cs-j055b9g

The Dark Side of Metrics: Goodhart’s Law, Cobra Effect, and the Metrics That Damage Teams Oct 01, 2024

In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we explore the unintended consequences and pitfalls of relying too heavily on metrics with a dive into Goodhart’s Law. If you’ve ever wondered why well-intentioned measurements can backfire and cause harmful behaviors in software development, leadership, and beyond, then this episode is for you!

**What is Goodhart’s Law?**
Goodhart’s Law states that “When a measure becomes a target, it ceases to be a good measure.” This means that when metrics are used as goals, people tend to optimize for the metric itself rather than the underlying value or outcome it represents.

**How Can Metrics Destroy Collaboration?**
Chris shares an intriguing story about two teams set up to compete against each other, only to find that the focus on “winning” metrics led to a breakdown in communication and collaboration. Instead of fostering teamwork, the metrics created silos and a toxic environment.

**Examples of Bad Metrics in Software Development**
We go through specific metrics that have led to bad behaviors in software teams, such as:
- **Test Coverage Metrics**: How a narrow focus on test coverage can lead to tests that do nothing but improve the metric, without actually asserting anything or improving software quality.
- **Points-per-Person Metrics**: Why measuring productivity at an individual level (e.g., story points completed per person) damages team dynamics and led to cutting corners.

**Are There Any Good Metrics?**
Is it possible to use metrics without falling into the Goodhart’s Law trap? We discuss whether certain collective measures like **DORA Metrics** can provide value without the same issues.

**Metrics for Conversations, Not Evaluation**
One key takeaway is the distinction between metrics that trigger healthy conversations vs. those used to make evaluative judgments of a team from a distance. When metrics become evaluative rather than formative, they risk distorting behaviors and eroding psychological safety.

**Leading Measures vs. Lagging Measures**
We also touch on insights from *The 4 Disciplines of Execution* and its perspective on leading measures vs. lagging measures.

**Managing Teams and Incentives at Scale**
Finally, we tackle the challenge of managing people and teams at scale. Incentive structures that overemphasize metrics can lead to counterproductive behaviors, burnout, and loss of motivation. We emphasize the anti-pattern of metrics-driven management without side-by-side in-context coaching.

If you’ve ever experienced the pitfalls of metrics-driven environments or are seeking ways to improve measurement practices in your teams, this episode is packed with lessons learned, cautionary tales, and actionable advice. Don’t miss it!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/MiySzmDRYA8

How Mob Programming Dissolves the Ego to Boost Team Function: A Conversation with Michael K Sahota Sep 24, 2024

In this insightful episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we sit down with Michael K Sahota to dive deep into the transformative power of **Mob Programming** and **Pair Programming** in dissolving the ego and enhancing team dynamics. Michael shares his unique perspective on how mobbing/pairing can lead to profound psychological shifts, ultimately boosting team function, empathy, and humility.

### Key Highlights:
**Pair/Mob to Dissolve the Ego and Increase Team Function**
- Michael discusses the **primary goal** of a mob or pair session, revealing how it goes beyond just writing code or learning new techniques. It’s about dissolving the individual ego and fostering a collective, empathic mindset that benefits the entire team.
- We explore Michael’s **personal journey** with his ego, offering a candid look at how pairing/mobbing have helped him grow both personally and professionally.
- What is the most **significant outcome** of mobbing/pairing beyond the immediate code or learning? Michael explains how the real magic happens when team members listen to each other and take turns, creating a powerful forcing function for collaboration and psychological safety.
- We dive into the **psychological processes** that occur during mobbing, including the death of "fear-based clinging" and how healing the ego leads to deeper empathy and humility. Michael offers anecdotes on how mobbing helps resolve internal conflicts and improve relationships—both at work and beyond.
- How much time should be allocated for **production** versus focusing on **production capability**? Michael discusses how to strike the right balance between learning and output, avoiding over-indexing on either side.
- A unique **"learning theft"** example highlights why juniors should be prioritized during experiments, while senior developers are encouraged to go last—except when it comes to admitting mistakes, where the inverse applies.

**Pair/Mob for Production Capability and Beyond**
- Michael shares his thoughts on balancing the **development of production capability** with immediate production needs. He explains how overinvesting in production at the expense of capability can destroy long-term results.
- We explore how improving production capability with a solid **ROI** can often yield results within a quarter, but must be continually nurtured through retrospectives and lean thinking.
- Breaking the cycle of **overinvesting in production** under intense pressure is a major challenge for many teams. Michael shares stories of how transparency in communication, both within and outside the team, can help break this cycle.
- Michael introduces the concept of building **culture bubbles** and we share contrasting ideas on how much courage is needed for these bubbles.
- We also discuss the **HIPPO effect** and how mobbing can disrupt this dynamic by emphasizing experimentation and collective decision-making rather than deference to authority.
- Finally, Michael ties it all together by emphasizing the role of **humility**. No one is a flawless expert, and through mobbing/pairing, teams can build a habit of asking for help and embracing the idea that everyone, regardless of experience, has something to learn and improve.

### Why You Should Watch:
This episode is a must-watch for anyone involved in **software development**, team dynamics, or leadership. Whether you're interested in improving psychological safety, fostering team empathy, or enhancing production capability, Michael K Sahota's insights on mobbing and ego dissolution will help you rethink how teams work together. It’s about more than code—it’s about creating a culture of **trust, engagement**, and continuous improvement.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/Wj2hYGMei8s

The Nuances behind SRP, YAGNI, DRY, and #NoEstimates with Dave Copeland Sep 17, 2024

In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we are excited to have Dave Copeland share his experiences in the world of agile development, focusing on the critical nuances behind well-known principles such as SRP (Single Responsibility Principle), YAGNI (You Aren’t Gonna Need It), DRY (Don’t Repeat Yourself), and the often-debated #NoEstimates approach. Drawing from his journey transitioning from government waterfall projects to agile methodologies at a startup, Dave kicks off a discussion with invaluable lessons on how teams can avoid misunderstanding and misapplying agile aphorisms, or avoid the pitfalls of following agile aphorisms too woodenly.

### The Dangers of Following the Literal Words of Agile Aphorisms?
Have you ever seen a team stuck arguing over what SRP or SOLID (Single Responsibility, Open-Closed, Liskov Substitution, Interface Segregation, Dependency Inversion) truly means? Dave explains how teams can misinterpret these catchy phrases, leading to confusion, low cohesion, improper coupling, and poor decision-making. We dive into real-world examples from Dave’s experience, discussing when it's okay to duplicate code and when it's not, the delicate balance between over-engineering and under-engineering, and the importance of nuance in agile practices.

### "Just Sharing" vs. Universal Recommendations
Is it wise to blindly follow every "recommendation" from an agile coach, or is there room for discussion, experimentation, and adaptation? With Dave we tackle the common issue of semantic diffusion. We explore how teams can navigate complex situations and adapt agile and lean principles to their unique contexts.

### Organizational Change and Safe Learning Environments
We bring in the “Reading Rainbow” analogy and other examples to illustrate how organizational change needs to be gradual, allowing for nuanced learning. We also emphasize the importance of creating an environment where team members can safely fail while being guided by experienced developers in real-world contexts. Whether you’re scaling a team or trying to stack the deck with the right mix of skills, actionable strategies for fostering growth are discussed.

### Estimates, #NoEstimates, and Dealing with Uncertainty
The conversation gets even more interesting as we delve into the jarring #NoEstimates and its sometimes misunderstood implications. Dave brings up valid situations with real deadlines (e.g., seasonal deliveries, regulations) and we weigh-in on ways to handle them with or without estimates that are less likely to lead to self-sabotage. We also discuss the impact of automation on estimates, and what terms like "estimate" really mean.

Continuous Delivery (CD) also takes center stage as we discuss examples of how it and the practice of "don't sell what you don't already have built" fosters trust and reduces uncertainty. We touch on the various unknowns that can arise in development, how CD can help mitigate them, and whether teams can benefit from an "#OptionalEstimates" mindset. Throughout, Dave provides practical advice on aligning practices with business goals and managing risks effectively.

### Coaching, Coding, and Higher-Level Roles
Finally, we explore Dave’s thoughts on balancing hands-on coding with coaching responsibilities, especially in higher-level roles. How do you set expectations for coaches, and how can team composition shape the effectiveness of good practices? Whether you’re actively writing code or stepping back to guide others, Dave shares examples for making both approaches work.

Don’t miss this episode packed with deep dives into agile practices, team dynamics, and nuanced leadership. Be sure to subscribe to the Mob Mentality Show on your favorite platform to catch this episode and others like it!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/IPFYe_oOFtI

Impact of Teaming from a Management Perspective with Rickard Westman Sep 10, 2024

In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we explore the profound impact of mob programming from a management perspective with our special guest, Rickard Westman. With a diverse background in sports and news software products, Rickard transitioned from a traditional solo work environment to embracing mobbing—a journey that radically transformed how teams communicate, collaborate, and deliver value.

Rickard opens up about his early experiences in the industry, where he witnessed the drawbacks of isolated work patterns—particularly the delays and inefficiencies caused by waiting on pull requests. His initial encounter with mob programming was anything but smooth. The concept felt awkward and unnatural, but after Woody Zuill’s workshops and after experimenting with mobbing, Rickard and his teams discovered its potential to revolutionize their workflows.

In this episode, we dive into Rickard's journey from skepticism to advocacy for mob programming. He shares how mobbing helped increase production release frequency and enhance safety within his teams. By exposing communication breakdowns and dependency issues during scaling, mob programming brought to light the hidden challenges that were stalling progress. With the introduction of multiple mob teams, these issues began to dissipate as team members naturally shared knowledge and collaborated across different areas.

One of the key insights Rickard offers is the importance of slack in the system, generated through effective teaming. This slack led to greater autonomy, smoother flow, and quicker resolution of bottlenecks. Rickard recounts a compelling story where a bug fix, which would have taken six weeks in the traditional setup, was resolved in just one day through mobbing. This rapid turnaround is a testament to the power of collective problem-solving and the deep, holistic understanding of the product that mobbing fosters among team members.

Rickard also touches on the shift in management responsibilities as a result of mob programming. With teams becoming more self-organizing, managers found themselves spending less time overseeing individual tasks and more time empowering their teams to make decisions. This distributed decision-making model, contrasted with the traditional command-and-control approach, aligns with principles from the book *Turn The Ship Around.*

Throughout the episode, we discuss the benefits and potential pitfalls of mob programming from a management perspective. Rickard emphasizes the importance of coaching mob members to understand their contributions, especially when not working solo. He also explores how successful mob teams can serve as models for new teams, highlighting different interaction patterns for product owners, analysts, and even sports writers.

Finally, we examine the meta-level impact of mob programming at the C-suite level and how it influences broader organizational decision-making. Whether you're a manager, developer, or team member, this episode provides valuable insights into how mob programming can unlock potential, foster collaboration, and drive continuous improvement in your organization.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/hLN2iCBdYac

Building Trust and Mastery: Matthew Philip on XP, Agile, and Psychological Safety in Higher Education Sep 03, 2024

It's back to school, everyone! Dive into a transformative journey of education with Matthew Philip, an experienced Organizational Refactorer and educator, as he shares his innovative approach to integrating XP (Extreme Programming) and Agile methodologies into the classroom. In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we explore how Matthew's dynamic teaching methods are applied to software engineering education, fostering an environment where trust, mastery, and psychological safety are paramount.

**XP and Agile in the Classroom**

Matthew Philip's unique perspective as both an educator and coach provides a compelling narrative on how XP and Agile principles can be implemented in higher education. From his history of teaching Agile in orgs and universities to leading hands-on learning experiences that go beyond traditional lectures, Matthew's methods challenge the conventional constraints of the classroom.

Discover how Matthew creates a WAR room environment in the classroom, fostering high energy and positivity to encourage active participation. Learn about the use of information radiators, pairing, and mob programming to ensure students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also excel in real-world applications. Matthew also delves into the challenges of teaching Agile content as part of a master's program in software engineering, where students are exposed to the intricacies of refactoring to patterns and leading through facilitation.

In this episode, we discuss the critical differences between being a crafter versus just a coder, and how Matthew helps students navigate the transition from the academic world to the corporate environment. We explore the importance of understanding short-term school code versus long-term maintainability, and how working with real customers in a classroom setting can profoundly impact students' learning experiences and feedback loops.

**Mastery-Based Learning and Psychological Safety**

Matthew is a strong advocate for mastery-based learning, where the focus shifts from simply passing quizzes to deeply understanding and applying knowledge. We discuss how students can assess their own understanding, whether through techniques like Test-Driven Development (TDD) or experiencing the consequences of poor practices. Matthew emphasizes the significance of psychological safety in the classroom, where students learn how to fail safely and collaborate effectively.

Explore how the pressure of pacing in large classrooms can conflict with mastery learning, and how assessment strategies can be adapted to ensure that learning sticks and isn't lost over time. Matthew shares insights on fostering peer assessments and creating systems where even when students "game" the system, true mastery is still achieved.

**The Role of AI and Future of Education**

In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, Matthew addresses the impact of generative AI in the classroom. How can AI be leveraged to enhance learning, and what are the risks of its misuse? We discuss the importance of correct prompting, the authenticity of AI-generated content, and whether mob programming could be the solution to these challenges—while also questioning whether this approach could disrupt current educational and industry standards due to teacher-to-student ratios.

**Psychological Safety and Building Trust**

Finally, we delve into the role of psychological safety in the classroom, exploring how activities like group juggling can teach students to fail and learn together. Matthew shares strategies for establishing trust and the correlation between high energy, positivity, and psychological safety. We also consider whether in-person interactions are essential for fostering trust, or if remote environments can replicate these conditions.

Don't miss this episode as we uncover the future of education, one where trust, mastery, and psychological safety take center stage. To stay updated on this and other insightful episodes, subscribe to the Mob Mentality Show on your favorite platform.

Video and show Notes: https://youtu.be/IkqRI2GQ4MY

Automated Quality Gateways and Cross Discipline Firmware Mobs with Cyrus Metcalf Aug 27, 2024

In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we explore the intricate landscape of **Automated Quality Gateways and Cross-Discipline Firmware Mobs** with our guest, Cyrus Metcalf. This conversation is rich with practical insights and actionable strategies for anyone engaged in software, firmware, or hardware development, particularly those interested in enhancing team collaboration and continuous delivery (CD) practices through mobbing techniques.

**Automated Quality Gateways:**

Cyrus shares his experiences in setting up automated quality gateways for firmware and software that control sophisticated systems like boats. Learn how these gateways, including tests, formatting, and coverage, ensure robust code quality and seamless operations. We discuss the merits of running formatters locally versus within a pipeline. We also discuss the impact of these gateways on agility, depending on whether you’re in a startup or a more established organization.

The conversation includes the role of hardware abstraction layers and how automated quality gateways can supplement and even replace certain types of human feedback, thereby streamlining the development process. Cyrus also provides insights into achieving consistent formatting, the challenges of fine-tuning formatters, and the importance of custom config files. Discover how these practices create “highways” for development teams, enabling them to operate at peak efficiency within a fast red-green-refactor cycle.

**Leveling Up Through Mobbing:**

We also discuss how mobbing techniques can elevate the skills of every team member, regardless of their technical background. Cyrus explains how mobbing demystifies the development process, reducing their apprehension about software complexities. By fostering a collaborative environment where everyone learns a bit of everything, mobbing helps dismantle knowledge silos and promotes a culture of continuous improvement.

Cyrus shares his experiences as the sole software developer in a company, including strategies for using mobbing to educate and collaborate across hardware, firmware, and software teams. We explore the dynamics of cross-discipline mobs, where diverse teams work together on complex challenges, and how these mobs have evolved from training tools into essential parts of the production process.

**The Culture of Mobbing:**

The episode also delves into the cultural aspects of mobbing, including the pros and cons of different mob cultures across various companies, the importance of openness and inclusivity, and methods for resolving disagreements within a mob. Cyrus discusses the benefits and challenges of mobbing with juniors and interns, interacting with skeptics, and how a culture of openness—both within the mob and across the organization—can drive innovation and collaboration.

Lastly, Cyrus offers his perspective on how agile principles and practices have naturally integrated into his teams without the need for an official agile coach. This episode is essential listening for anyone looking to improve their team’s efficiency, collaboration, and overall quality through the integration of automated quality gateways and cross-discipline mobbing.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/vOxFEtX541A

The Behavior Framework with Doc Norton Aug 21, 2024

In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we explore the Behavior Framework with the insightful Doc Norton, traversing the foundational behaviors that drive successful software development teams. Drawing from years of experience and real-world examples, Doc shares the principles and practices that have consistently helped teams deliver software products that are not only desirable but also viable and feasible.

**Know the Problem You Are Solving**
We kick off the discussion by tackling one of the most critical aspects of software development: understanding the problem you're trying to solve. Doc explains why it's not enough to have a manager dictate tasks and why teams must be aligned on the domain or specific set of problems they're addressing. We explore the difference between developers who are "builders" versus those who are "problem solvers" and discuss real-life scenarios where solving the root business problem either succeeded brilliantly or failed miserably. This section also delves into the concept of "Hubris Driven Development" and ties it into the importance of continuous validation before, during, and after development.

**Make Your Work Visible**
Next, we examine the significance of making your work visible. But what does that really mean? Doc challenges the notion of simply having a manager observe the development process and instead advocates for meaningful visibility that enhances awareness of flow, cycle time, and throughput. We discuss how much visibility is necessary and how to reduce the friction in data gathering by automating the process, ensuring that "updating status" doesn’t become an additional burden on the team.

**Favor Automation Over Documentation**
Doc takes us through the benefits of favoring automation over documentation. From auto-generating status reports via code commits to AI, to using Behavior-Driven Development (BDD) to create historical Gantt Charts, we explore how automation can ease developer pain and streamline DevOps engineering. This approach not only saves time but also enhances accuracy and consistency in reporting.

**Work Together**
The conversation then shifts to the evolving meaning of "working together" in modern software development. Doc reflects on how teams used to function without strict roles or specialization and how the industry's shift towards hyper-specialization has created silos and Lean wastes. We share stories of Pair/Ensemble Programming, the impact of certificate mills on over-specialization, and the pros and cons of specialization in Agile teams. Doc also discusses the importance of credibility through collaboration rather than positional authority and shares examples of teams successfully filling roles collectively.

**Create Simple Things in Small Steps**
Finally, we emphasize the power of creating simple things in small steps. Doc highlights the importance of being aware of psychological WIP (Work in Progress) limits and shares a story of how reducing lead time by taking small, simple steps enabled early and accurate validation. We also discuss the dangers of overproduction and the challenges faced when big steps lead to troubleshooting nightmares, all while tying it back to being meticulous about composition.

Don't miss out on this deep dive into the Behavior Framework with Doc Norton—packed with practical insights and actionable advice for anyone involved in software development.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/MsMK0q_KUwU

Nothing in Tech Matters Except XP? A Hot Take Aug 13, 2024

In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show titled **"Nothing in Tech Matters Except XP? A Hot Take,"** We take on the controversial discussion of the ever-changing landscape of technology and the role of Extreme Programming (XP). Are industry "best practices" in languages, front-end frameworks, and meta-architecture mere trends destined to fade away? Come hear a provocative stance that challenges the importance of these things, arguing that they are volatile, trendy, and often miss the mark when it comes to delivering true software excellence.

We explore how many tech trends are built on the assumption that developers will inherently write unsafe code unless they are constrained by strong type systems, impenetrable boundaries (like microservices), and restrictive frameworks. But what if consistently following XP principles makes these safeguards superfluous? Can language, frameworks, tools, and even meta-architectures lose their high significance when XP is at the core of software development?

Throughout the episode, we draw on personal experiences, asserting that our developer satisfaction remains consistently high when XP values and principles are the guiding force, regardless of the technology stack. Without good XP practices, even the most advanced tools can't solve the deeper, underlying problems that plague software projects.

We delve into the ongoing debate of Majestic Monolith vs. Microservices, questioning whether the choice of meta-architecture matters as much if XP is practiced. How do these choices affect agility, and can agility be seen as a reward for technical excellence?

Another key topic is the influence of societal factors on willpower and habits, and how these meta-problems impact developers' ability to consistently follow XP practices. Can a focus on XP help overcome the challenges posed by trendy tech choices and shifting industry standards?

Chris poses a utopian question: If everyone adhered strictly to XP principles, would other factors like programming language, framework, or meta-architecture even matter? We explore this thought experiment, considering whether an XP-driven world could render other tech decisions less critical.

But it’s not all theory. Austin reaches out to Chris for "Apathy Counseling" for developers facing burnout or disillusionment with tech trends, and offers community analogies linking dev health to "Tech Dishes"—a metaphor for the routine maintenance needed to keep your codebase clean and healthy.

Finally, we tackle the nuances of infrastructure and database management, offering qualifications on the time and effort needed to support different setups. Whether you're grappling with microservices or maintaining a monolithic architecture, the focus remains on how XP can guide you through these challenges.

Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that pushes the boundaries of conventional wisdom in tech.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/MZUUemSJMjs

Generate Organization-Wide Understanding with Cross Discipline Causal Loop Diagramming Aug 06, 2024

Come dive into the transformative world of Cross Discipline Causal Loop Diagramming on this episode of the Mob Mentality Show! Unveil the principles and practices behind generating organization-wide understanding and breaking down cross-functional misunderstandings that often lead to missed opportunities.

**Key Highlights:**

**1. The Cost of Misunderstanding:** Discover how cross-functional misunderstandings can lead to missed opportunities and inefficiencies. We explore real-world examples and offer practical solutions to bridge these gaps.

**2. Insights from "The 5th Discipline":** Learn from the wisdom of Peter Senge's seminal book, "The 5th Discipline". Understand how systems thinking can revolutionize your organizational dynamics and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

**3. Causal Loop Diagramming 101:** Get a clear definition of causal loop diagramming and its critical role in understanding complex adaptive systems within organizations. See how quantities in a system impact each other through balancing and reinforcing loops.

**4. Breaking Down Knowledge Silos:** Address the dangers of over-reliance on specialists and knowledge silos. Learn how causal loop diagramming can facilitate better communication and collaboration across different functions and departments.

**5. Visualizing Complex Systems:** Grasp the importance of visualizing exponential effects and cause-and-effect patterns that enhance the performance of typically separately managed systems.

**6. Practical Examples and Tools:** Dive into examples from a Fifth Discipline book club and understand how to draw and use causal loop diagrams. Explore tools and techniques that make the process accessible and effective.

**7. Real-World Applications:** Hear about a causal loop diagram example related to bad code quality and how pairing with each part of the system can build a comprehensive system diagram. Understand the impact of psychological safety on system self-awareness.

**8. Interdepartmental Impact:** Discuss the importance of seeing the whole system to understand interdepartmental impacts. Compare the efficacy of having the whole system in the room with and without formal tools.

**9. Addressing Second-Order Effects:** Identify and address second-order effects and human shortcomings in seeing side effects of side effects. Learn how diagramming can help deal with the chunking problem of a large system.

**10. Feedback and Future Learning:** Hear feedback from Big Agile session participants and understand the learning path for drawing and using causal loop diagrams. Discover how mob/pair causal loop diagramming can enhance understanding and problem-solving.

Join us as we uncover the power of causal loop diagramming to aid decision making, improve communication, and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. Don't miss out on this edifying episode!

Ensure you stay engaged in the world of organizational development and systems thinking by tuning in to this episode. Your learning path for causal loop diagramming and breaking down knowledge silos starts here!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/Oe75SzPeCSs

Crafting Lean Software: Dave Adsit on Small Batches and Short Lead Times Jul 30, 2024

Join us in this thoughtful episode of the Mob Mentality Show as we explore the world of Lean Software Development with Dave Adsit. Titled "Crafting Lean Software: Dave Adsit on Small Batches and Short Lead Times," this episode provides valuable insights for those looking to enhance their software development values and practices. Dave Adsit shares his experiences on how to effectively implement lean principles to achieve small batches, short lead times, and frequent releases.

### Key Discussion Points:

#### **Lean Software Development**
- **Craft vs. Engineering**
- **Principles of Flow**
- **Waterfall vs. "Agile" vs. Lean**
- **Timeboxes vs. Scope-Boxes**
- **Resource vs. Flow Efficiency**
- **Prioritization, Prototyping, and Lean Investment Bets**
- **Single Piece Flow, Feature Flags, Continuous Delivery**
- **Maximal Learning through Experimentation and a 50% Product Bet Success Rate**

#### **Collaboration**
- **Integration with Lean**
- **"All Hands on Deck" Mindset**
- **Relation to WIP Limits**
- **Pair and Mob Programming**
- **Failures and Lessons**
- **Rules, Why, and Learning Paths**
- **Utilization and Person vs. Team vs. System Value**

#### **Continuous Improvement**
- **Core Value**
- **Innovative vs. Inert Practices**
- **Deep vs. Shallow Learning**
- **Leading Learning Opportunities**
- **Knowing Enough to Make Informed Decisions**
- **What If Some Do Not Want to Learn?**
- **Rock Star vs. Super-Star**

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/LgAMUGtdXGA

Artie Gold on scope is your friend. The less you need to know at any given moment, the better. Jul 23, 2024

Join us on the Mob Mentality Show as we sit down with the insightful Artie Gold to explore the pivotal role of scope and cognitive load in coding. In "Artie Gold on Scope is Your Friend: The Less You Need to Know at Any Given Moment, the Better," we delve into practical strategies for enhancing productivity and code quality through smart scope management.

### Scope and Cognitive Load

Artie Gold sheds light on the false pride developers often take in handling complex code and high cognitive demands. We discuss the advantages of understanding as needed versus knowing everything at once. Are developers truly like acrobats, balancing multiple logic threads simultaneously? Artie highlights the human mind's limitations and the significant benefits of encapsulation in reducing cognitive load.

Key topics include:
- The detrimental effects of high scope and cognitive load on development
- Encapsulation's role in making code easier to read, scan, and modify
- Comparing agile, nimble, and shallow approaches to manage cognitive overload
- Artie's amusing analogy of low-level code instructions to a simple task like buying milk
- Strategies for helping developers adapt to a new paradigm of encapsulated code reading

### Clarity of Value on Stories

We shift our focus to the critical importance of clarity in user stories and the benefits of direct client relationships. Artie discusses the drawbacks of indirect communication and the often humorous complications of serving as the middleman for another middleman.

Discussion points include:
- The irreplaceable value of direct conversations in understanding "the why" behind requests
- Whether good story conversations can be replaced with a template or checklist
- The impact of user feedback on delivered products versus theoretical future products
- The risks of over-refinement, illustrated by the rock versus ruby MVP delivery example
- Challenges in assuming everyone excels at written communication

### Code is Everything. Code is Nothing.

In our final segment, we explore the dual nature of code. Code is vital—it produces value, is easier to change than other components, and serves as a repository of knowledge. Yet, code alone is meaningless without context and purpose.

Artie elaborates on:
- The necessity of keeping code in good shape for ease of future changes
- Why "pretty" code isn't the goal—functional, adaptable code is
- The inherent truthfulness of code as the ultimate source of software reality

**Don't miss this insightful discussion with Artie Gold that can transform your approach to coding, user stories, and the fundamental nature of software development.**
Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/0z2nQHT8Jvs

Sticky Mob Programming with Lennart Fridén Jul 16, 2024

In this compelling episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we dive deep into the art of Sticky Mob Programming with Lennart Fridén, who brings a wealth of knowledge from his decade-long journey coaching mob programming in Sweden. Whether you're a seasoned mob programmer or new to the concept, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world examples that can help you make mobbing a lasting fixture in your team's workflow.
### Key Discussion Points:
**Sticky Mob Programming:**
- Lennart’s insights on mob stickiness
- Beyond just trying mobbing
- Persistent mob habits even without the nudging of a coach
- Mob stickiness challenges and triumphs
- Roles: outsider, insider, first follower (AKA eager first dance partner),
- Lessons from "Power of Habit"
- Mob as keystone habit leading to a cascade of other beneficial practices
- Community and belonging
- Dealing with stagnation
- Vulnerability and growth

**Technical Coaching and Redundancy:**
- Embedding coaching and making the coach's role redundant (times two)
- Teaching for sustainability
- Gradual coach transition examples
- Handling eager vs. apathetic first follower (potential future coach)
**P.S.** Reach out to Lennart Fridén ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/lennartfriden/ ) for guidance on introducing mobbing and ensuring it sticks in your organization.
Tune in to discover how to make mob programming a sticky and sustainable practice in your organization!
Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/FSFyifwXbWo

Michele Sollecito on Systems Thinking: Seeing the Interactions Beyond the Parts Jul 08, 2024

Discover a transformative conversation on systems thinking with our special guest, Michele Sollecito, in this episode of the Mob Mentality Show. In "Michele Sollecito on Systems Thinking: Seeing the Interactions Beyond the Parts," Michele shares valuable insights and practical examples that will revolutionize your approach to system optimization and organizational management.
### Topics Covered:

**Systems Thinking:**
- **Seeing Systems Everywhere**
- **Focus on Interactions**
- **Person Issue vs. System Issue**
- **Animated Causal Loop Diagrams**
- **Sub-System Optimization**
- **System Fracturing from the Top**
- **Trunk Based Development (TBD)**
- **Benchmarking and "Copy-Paste" Pitfalls**
- **Defensive Posture vs. Experimentation**
- **Changing Core Beliefs**
- **Leadership and Fake Experiments**
- **Data vs. Emotion**
- **Comfortable Inefficiency**
- **Team Dynamics and Failure**
- **Culture of Continuous Improvement**
- **Managing Resistance to Improvement*
**Software Architecture:**
- **Specialists vs. Generalists**
- **Technology Obsession**
- **Distributed Systems**
- **Coordination Strategies**
- **Paired Product Ownership**
- **Autonomy vs. Consistency?**
**Ensemble Programming:**
- **Resistance**
- **Paradigm Shift to Fun**
- **Early Adopters**
- **Collaboration and Virtue**
- **Sustainable Development**
- **Avoid Echo Chambers**
- **System Level Relationships with Mob**
Don't miss this enlightening conversation that promises to transform your approach to systems thinking, software architecture, and ensemble programming. Listen and engage with Michele Sollecito's expert insights on the Mob Mentality Show!
Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/Ga0f2jGnGxI

Exploring Collaborative Programming with Tuple’s Eli Goodman Jul 02, 2024

Join us on this enlightening episode of the Mob Mentality Show as we dive deep into the world of collaborative programming with our special guest, Eli Goodman from Tuple. In this episode we explore the intricacies of mob programming, the innovative tools designed for enhanced teamwork, and the future of Tuple.

### Highlights from Our Discussion:

**Eli's Mobbing Questions for Austin and Chris:**
- **Last Time Mobbed?**
- **Duration and Techniques**
- **Team Dynamics**
- **Austin's Recent Mob Journey**
- **Chris' Leadership and Mob Hopping**
- **Visualizing Connections**
- **Continuous Improvement and Diffusion of Innovation**
- **When to Mob and When to Not**

**Tools for Mob Programming:**
- **Popular Tools**
- **Monitor Usage**
- **Tech Enhancements**
- **Chat and Note Integration**
- **Equal Navigation and Code Verbalization**

**Inside Tuple:**
- **Eli's Role**
- **Origin Story**
- **Tuple's Progress**
- **Technical Excellence**
- **Social Layer Integration**
- **Resource Efficiency**
- **Focused Functionality**
- **User Base**
- **Future Prospects**

This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in mob programming, team collaboration, and cutting-edge tools that facilitate efficient and effective coding practices. Whether you're a seasoned mob programmer or new to the concept, Eli Goodman’s insights will provide valuable knowledge and inspiration for your programming journey.

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes packed with valuable programming insights!

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/eiLz_9-a-I4

"The Mob Moves Too Slow for Me" Jun 25, 2024

In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we dive into a challenge faced by many mobbers: the varying speeds of team members. Inspired by an X conversation in the community, we explore various possible experiments to run when someone in the ensemble says "The Mob Moves Too Slow for Me."

🔗 Join the Discussion:

Link to Community Tweet: https://x.com/EnverBral/status/1789533801690825041

🔍 Key Topics Covered:

Speeding Up the Mob: Should the mob match the speed of the fastest member?
Constructive Feedback: Transforming into a feedback machine and coach to help the team grow and improve continuously.
Utilizing Excess Brain Cycles: How to use spare mental capacity to build tools, automate tasks, and support the team's efficiency.
Career Direction and North Star: Conversations on finding and aligning with your career goals and personal mission.
Diverse Mob Roles: Leveraging roles such as forward-looking research while others focus on production to enhance team learning and speed.
Effects of Working Alone: Understanding the side effects of working solo and how it impacts team dynamics.
Temporary Splits: Exploring the benefits and drawbacks of splitting from the mob temporarily for specialized tasks and re-integrating.
Impact of Decisions: The inevitability of being affected by others' decisions even when working independently.
Deepening Knowledge Gaps: The risks of creating solutions that no one else on the team understands and how to mitigate this.
High-Octane Collaboration: The advantages of co-locating with other fast-paced mobbers to enhance productivity.
Natural Splits: When different personal missions lead to a natural division within the mob.
System vs. Sub-System Optimization: Balancing the optimization of the whole system against focusing on sub-systems.
Mob Programming Benefits: Understanding the financial benefits and ROI of mob programming.
Voluntary Participation: The importance of not forcing team members to mob if they prefer other ways of working.

🔔 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to the Mob Mentality Show for more discussions on enhancing mob programming, team dynamics, and maximizing productivity.

📢 Engage with Us: Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Have you faced similar challenges in your mob programming journey? How did you address them? Let's learn from each other!

👍 Like, Share, and Comment: If you found this episode valuable, give it a thumbs up, share it with your network, and leave a comment. Your feedback helps us improve and brings more relevant content to you.

🔗 Connect with Us: https://www.mobmentalityshow.com/
Get ready for a deep dive into the intricacies of mob programming and discover how to harmonize varying speeds within your team while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration. Tune in now!

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/MnMHX5d_Mdc

Mobbing in the Midst of Waterfalls Jun 19, 2024

Welcome to the Mob Mentality Show! In this episode, "Mobbing in the Midst of Waterfalls," we explore how mobbing can survive and even thrive when surrounded by traditional waterfall teams. Full of practical insights, this episode is especially helpful for those navigating diverse workflows.

### Topics Covered:

**1. Mobbing in Lean/Agile vs. Waterfall**
Learn the key differences and challenges, and how mobbing can bridge the gap between these methodologies.

**2. Collective Automation**
Discover how mob teams collaborate on automation and pipelines with waterfall teams to aid tech integration. Understand how mob teams can drive automation initiatives that benefit the entire organization.

**3. WIP and Scope Negotiation**
Master the art of negotiating WIP and thin slice scopes with waterfall teams.

**4. Scheduling Mob Time**
Find practical strategies to mob with waterfall team members, overcoming scheduling conflicts.

**.5 Avoiding Bottlenecks**
Learn how to support others and ensure smooth progress that prevent workflow congestion.

**6. Rogue Lean Story**
Hear a concrete story about maintaining lean principles within a waterfall framework. Discover strategies to fight for optimal cycle times.

**7. Creative Solutions**
Unlock innovative solutions by thinking of third alternatives to achieve business goals. Gain a clear understanding of business problems, ensuring flexibility and adaptability in tech solutions.

### Why Listen?

This episode offers practical advice, real-world stories, and insights on maintaining mobbing techniques within waterfall environments. Tune in to balance agility and structure, foster continuous improvement, and drive successful automation across your organization.

Don’t miss this enlightening episode of the Mob Mentality Show – "Mobbing in the Midst of Waterfalls." Subscribe now!

**Subscribe to the Mob Mentality Show on YouTube and your favorite podcast platforms for more insightful discussions and advice.**

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/t9v0T6saH10

Leveling Up Teams with Mark Shead Jun 10, 2024

In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we dive into software development and team dynamics with Mark Shead. Discover how to revolutionize your team's productivity and create a more enjoyable work environment.

### **Leveling Up the Entire Team**
- **Maximizing Software Investment & Fun:** Learn how mob programming boosts software investment value and enjoyment.
- **Team Size Strategies:** Debate whether to tackle problems with large teams or start with just 5 people.
- **Real-Life Transformation:** Hear the story of five individuals transitioning from solo work to pair/mob programming and the positive outcomes including reduced cycle times, enhanced delivery rates, knowledge sharing, and collective code ownership.
- **Overcoming Silos:** Address the challenge of tying self-worth to personal knowledge silos and the sunk cost fallacy.
- **Bottleneck Resolution:** Compare R&D bottleneck resolution in solo, isolated pair/mob, and dynamic pair/mob setups.
- **Team Health:** Learn why the speed of asking questions and seeking help is crucial for team health.
- **Risk and Virtue:** Discuss taking risks from a firm foundation and acting virtuously in a team, regardless of consequences.
- **Sponsoring Risk Takers:** Discover the importance of sponsoring and encouraging team members who take risks and ask questions.
- **Learning Vulnerability:** Hear Austin's baseball coach story on vulnerability and its relevance to software teams.

### **Effective Remote Teams**
- **Solo Work vs. Collaboration:** Examine the norm of solo work and scheduled meetings leading to eight-hour days filled with meetings.
- **Booking Meetings:** Understand the inefficiency of booking meetings weeks in advance just to get necessary information.
- **Remote Team Room:** Learn about the remote team room approach that reduces cycle time for information sharing and fosters real-time collaboration.
- **Video Call Dynamics:** Address the fear of being on video and the impact of informal versus formal video styles on zoom fatigue.

### **BDD & TDD: The State of Software Development**
- **Roman Bridges Legend:** Reflect on the "hopefulness" in the software industry and the parallels with the legend of Roman bridges.
- **Known vs. Unknown:** Delve into what is known versus unknown in software development.
- **BDD/TDD Practices:** Discuss how much BDD/TDD should be integrated with the UI and the fear of creating test code that might need changes later.
- **Evolving Product Code:** Become comfortable with evolving both product and test code.
- **Coupling Tests to Design:** Debate whether to couple tests to design or not, comparing London versus Detroit approaches.
- **Unmatched Confidence:** Discover the confidence boost that comes with well-executed BDD/TDD.
- **Safe R&D Spaces:** Balance the need for a safe time-boxed R&D experimental code with the certainty of test-driven development.
- **Humoring the Coach:** Hear anecdotes about teams humoring their coaches with TDD, only to embrace it enthusiastically the next day.

Don't miss this insightful episode filled with practical tips, real-life stories, and advice on enhancing your team's performance and software development practices. Tune in now to level up your team with Mark Shead!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/8yJmuXWgVbU

Mobbing, Retrospectives, and Just-In-Time Team Learning with Diana Larsen Jun 04, 2024

In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we are thrilled to have Diana Larsen, a leader in agility and team dynamics, join us for an in-depth conversation. Together, we explore the transformative power of mobbing, micro-retrospectives, and just-in-time learning for agile teams.

**Micro-Retros:**
- Discover how mobbing enhances the effectiveness of retrospectives.
- Address common complaints about retrospectives, such as time consumption.
- Learn how to integrate retrospectives seamlessly into the workflow.
- Understand the benefits of starting small, learning frequently, and continuously improving.
- Find the right cadence for short retrospectives, like using Pomodoro techniques or end-of-session reviews.
- Debate the necessity of including all five steps of a retrospective in a mini-retro.
- Explore the compound benefits of consistently "turning up the good" and building team confidence.
- Compare immediate actions in mini-retros to the traditional retrospective action items.
- See how natural, on-the-fly mini-retros can respond effectively to events.
- Discuss the role and timing of scheduled umbrella retrospectives.
- Examine system-level umbrella retrospectives, such as using Wardley Mapping for IT teams.
- Explore the dynamics of inter-team umbrella retrospectives.

**Just-in-Time Learning:**
- Harness the power of just-in-time learning through mini-retros.
- Learn how to embed learning into the work process rather than treating it as a separate activity.
- Understand the importance of not delaying learning when it’s most needed.
- Build co-intelligence within your team.
- Discover the immediate value of applying new knowledge.
- Learn strategies for quickly scanning books to set the stage for later just-in-time application.
- Discuss the value of knowledge that always applies and different types of knowledge.
- Navigate known unknowns and unknown unknowns in learning.
- Embrace a growth mindset and turn "I don't know" into a starting point rather than a barrier.
- Contrast the roles of software journalists versus software engineers in team learning.

**New Ways of Working and the Future of Work:**
- Debate whether Agile is becoming fragile and outdated.
- Explore the diffusion of Agile innovation with its pioneers.
- Learn creative approaches to high-collaboration, creative work.
- Looking ahead to new methodologies like Beyond Budgeting, Systems Thinking, and Wardley Mapping.
- Discover the continuous improvement efforts of leading Agile practitioners.
- Revisit Agile principles and values to compare and contrast with new movements.
- Respond effectively to emerging movements in the Agile space.
- Accept the limits of learning everything and seek insights from thought leaders.
- Witness the birth of new movements and predict the next thought leaders in Agile.

**Diana's New Books:**
- Dive into the 2nd Edition of "The Agile Retrospectives Book" which has just been released.
- Understand how this book serves as a catalyst for team learning and improvements.
- Discover the significant changes and updates since the first edition, including a section on remote retrospectives.
- Explore the meticulous re-analysis and updates made to every sentence and word in the book.
- Learn about Diana’s personal epiphany in her book "Lead Without Blame" and its focus on leadership, environments, and team responsiveness.

**Diana's Upcoming Talks and Work:**
- Get a preview of Diana’s upcoming talks at the Agile World Conference and the XP Conference.
- Learn about her participation in LinkedIn Live Events and the Agile Coaching Network as a panelist.
- Gain insights into her ongoing efforts in coaching leaders and influencing the Agile community.

Join us for this insightful episode filled with practical tips, expert advice, and forward-thinking strategies to enhance your team’s Agile practices and continuous improvement journey. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay updated with the latest from the Mob Mentality Show!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/ONrfef1nkwc

The 7th Habit of a Highly Effective Mobber: Sharpen the Saw (7 Habits) May 28, 2024

Welcome to another episode of the Mob Mentality Show! In this episode, we dig into the essential 7th Habit of Highly Effective People: "Sharpen the Saw." Join us as we explore the concept's vital role in Mob Programming.

**In This Episode, We Discuss:**
- The significance of "Sharpen the Saw" in the Genesis of Mob Programming with Woody Zuill.
- The repercussions of neglecting to "Sharpen the Saw" and its impact on team efficiency and personal growth.
- Strategies for integrating "Sharpen the Saw" into your workday versus outside of work hours.
- The importance of dedicated learning time for continuous improvement.
- Comparing ad-hoc and scheduled approaches to sharpening the saw.
- Using learning sessions to enhance team skill diversity and foster a culture of growth.
- When to use kanban cards for "sharpen the saw" activities
- Creating a well-ordered life with scheduled habits for consistent personal and professional development.
- Insights from "The Power of Habit" and "Atomic Habits" on stacking habits for maximum impact.
- Transforming real knowledge and belief into action through proper identity and motivations.

Tune in to discover practical tips and strategies to keep your team sharp, focused, and continuously improving. Whether you're a seasoned mobber or new to the practice, this episode offers valuable takeaways to enhance your team's productivity and collaboration.

**Don't miss this dive into the 7th Habit!**

**Join the Conversation:**
Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments! How do you incorporate "Sharpen the Saw" in your daily routine? Let’s learn and grow together!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/_Uu0EXhV8oY

The 6th Habit of a Highly Effective Mobber: Synergize (7 Habits) May 21, 2024

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Mob Mentality Show! 🚀 In this episode, we dive deep into the 6th Habit of Highly Effective Mobbers: Synergize. Join us as we unravel the true essence of synergy and dispel common misconceptions portrayed in pop culture.

📚 **What We Discuss:**
- **Synergy Defined**: We explore the book definition of synergize and clear up misunderstandings surrounding the concept.
- **Power of Collaboration**: Discover how collaboration amplifies outcomes and why valuing people’s differences is crucial.
- **Combining Strengths**: Learn the art of leveraging diverse strengths to create powerful results.
- **Mathematical Analogies**: Understand when 1 + 1 equals 2.5, and why sometimes 1 + 1 can equal 1 or even -5.
- **Third Alternative Creation**: Find out how to create innovative solutions that go beyond compromise.
- **Listening to Understand**: Master the skill of active listening to foster better communication.
- **Openness to Feedback**: Embrace feedback with an open mind to enhance personal and team growth.
- **Trust and Respect**: See how a self-reinforcing feedback loop of trust and respect can elevate team dynamics.
- **Improv Techniques**: Utilize "yes, and" and perfect comedic timing to boost creativity and problem-solving.
- **Safe Experimentation**: Learn to make each person's experiment fast, safe, and a valuable learning experience.
- **Embracing Failure**: Cultivate an environment where being wrong and failing is part of the journey to success.

🔍 **Why Listen?**
- Enhance your teamwork skills by learning how to synergize effectively.
- Transform your approach to collaboration and problem-solving.
- Gain practical tips for building a culture of trust and continuous improvement.

Join us for a transformative discussion that will elevate your mobbing practices and help you become a more effective team player.

🔔 **Don't forget to subscribe** to The Mob Mentality Show for more episodes on mastering the habits of highly effective mobbers!

Tune in now and start synergizing like never before! 🎧

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/UmtHqZ7U-B8

Cultivating Trust and Influential Relationships with Leadership May 14, 2024

Welcome to another episode of the Mob Mentality Show, where we jump into the dynamics of teamwork, leadership, and trust in the ever-evolving landscape of software development. In this episode, titled "Cultivating Trust and Influential Relationships with Leadership," we embark on a journey to decode the intricate nuances of fostering trust and building influential relationships with leadership.

Join us as we explore a myriad of topics, including techniques for influencing leadership within mobbing environments and navigating the complexities of both positive and challenged relationships with leadership figures.

We delve into the importance of inviting criticism and feedback, advocating for self-organizing teams, and navigating instances where leaders' actions diverge from their words. Is the "Good cop, bad cop" relationship dynamic a pattern or an anti-pattern?

Throughout the episode, we emphasize the significance of relentless transparency, genuine curiosity, and vulnerability in fostering natural trust and rapport. From leveraging the natural side effects of Mob TDD/CD to addressing chasms in relationship maps, come join our quest to unravel the secrets of effective trust-building interactions with leadership.

Tune in now to discover with us how to navigate the delicate balance between being at peace with your efforts and continuously striving for improvement while embarking on a journey towards unlocking the true potential of influential relationships in leadership.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/PQpp7S82TLc

Agile Tales From Down Under ft Victor Agung and Jordan Ocokoljic May 07, 2024

Join us for a riveting episode of Mob Mentality Show as we delve into the dynamic world of cross-discipline "Aussie Agile" with Victor Agung and Jordan Ocokoljic. From their diverse experiences in Agile/XP, predominantly through pair programming, to insightful stories of mobbing, this episode promises to be an enlightening journey for Agile enthusiasts and novices alike.

In our conversation, Jordan shares his journey through various XP/pair shops, while Victor recounts his initiation into pairing and XP methodologies during his time at Pivotal. They discuss the transformative power of pairing, making mistakes a comfortable part of the learning process, and the shift from traditional code reviews to more efficient collaboration models.

Delving deeper, we explore the nuances of true collaboration as co-creation versus post-creation review, the benefits of pairing with cross-functional teams, and the paradigm shift towards continuous PR. Victor and Jordan share anecdotes of pairing with designers, business stakeholders, and PMs, highlighting the synergy achieved through collective intelligence.

Transitioning to stories of mobbing, our guests unravel the impact of collaborative mob sessions on team dynamics, skill development, and product outcomes. From UI/UX designers joining pairs to create a collaborative ensemble, to the invaluable lessons learned from seeking diverse opinions within a mob, every narrative underscores the power of collective problem-solving and empathy-driven collaboration.

Throughout the episode, Victor and Jordan emphasize the importance of promoting outcomes over practices, seeking the minimum viable number of useful opinions, orienting collaboration towards customer delight, and fostering a culture of humility and courage within teams. Their insights into unlocking the full potential of every team member's brain, and the role of mob/pairing as a supportive sounding board, offer actionable strategies for building resilient and high-performing Agile teams.

Tune in to "Agile Tales From Down Under" for an excursion in agile collaboration, filled with practical wisdom, heartfelt anecdotes, and transformative insights from two passionate practitioners.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/8jdps1V9vZY

Navigating a Developer's Aversions to Learning, Change, and Influence Apr 30, 2024

In this engaging episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we delve into the intricate world of developer psychology and strategies for fostering a collaborative, innovative environment. Join us as we explore the challenges of influencing developers, from overcoming aversions to learning and change to embracing the skeptic within the team.

We address the pressing questions surrounding mobbing, including whether some changes, like transitioning to mobbing, are too monumental to tackle all at once. Join the conversation on whether starting with pair or mob programming is the easier path for your team's transformation.

Learn about the power of code reading clubs as a tool for continuous learning and improvement, and uncover techniques for fostering incremental learning to achieve the precise but powerful "fluent edge" in your development practices.

Throughout the discussion, we emphasize the importance of cultivating kind, warm discussions where objections are welcomed as opportunities for growth. We provide practical advice for creating a safe space for no-pressure experimentation, allowing your team to thrive and innovate without fear of failure.

Drawing from principles such as the 7 Habits and the pursuit of classical virtues of goodness, truth, and beauty, we offer some actionable strategies for focusing on what you can control and harnessing the full improvement potential of your developer team.

Tune in to gain invaluable insights and actionable tips for navigating the complex landscape of developer aversions and fostering a culture of learning, change, and influence within your organization.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/S1aAob44AzU

Building Bridges: The Art of Influencing Through Real Relationships and Excellent Environments Apr 23, 2024

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Mob Mentality Show! Join us as we delve into the nuanced art of influence in our dynamic discussion titled "Building Bridges: The Art of Influencing Through Real Relationships and Excellent Environments."

In this episode, we confront the age-old question: Does persuasion via logic lead to backfire? We dissect this notion while exploring the effectiveness of environment strategies in the realm of influence. But hold on, is influencing via environment inherently sneaky or malicious?

We uncover the peril of the status quo and interrogate whether any room exists in a system for any incremental change. Reflecting on impactful literature like "Switch," "Made to Change," and "Power of Habit," we draw parallels to real-world scenarios and discuss their implications.

Navigating the landscape of relationships, our conversation explores the essence of connection and team building. Drawing from the metaphor of building bridges, we dissect the concept of natural influence versus calculated scheming, revealing the power of authentic connections.

Lastly, is there any danger of "successful influence" for bad reasons or from bad causes? Our candid discussion sheds light on the dangers lurking beneath the surface.

Tune in to discover actionable insights, thought-provoking perspectives, and strategies for leveraging influence ethically and effectively. Don't miss out on this episode of the Mob Mentality Show!

Subscribe now to stay updated on our latest episodes and join the conversation on our social media platforms. Let's embark on this journey together as we unlock the insights to real and lasting influence and impact.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/J9h7mEUBRZU

From Thesis to Tool: The Story Behind The Automated Mob Programming Tutor with Yuki Tagawa and Christopher Martin Apr 16, 2024

Embark on a journey into the world of collaborative learning with Yuki Tagawa and Christopher Martin as they unveil the "Mob Programming Tutor." In this episode, we explore the genesis of this cutting-edge tool, born from their university master's thesis work. Discover how it integrates a Mob Pomodoro Timer with an intelligent tutoring system driven by machine learning, to help improve the way students collaborate.

Join us as we dissect the intricacies of the tool's development, its unique features like auto-shifting break times and feedback on mob roles, and its potential to transform both learning and teaching paradigms. Learn firsthand from the creators about the tool's impact on student collaboration and its future trajectory.

But that's not all – we delve into the broader landscape of Mob Programming in education. Uncover the challenges of teaching collaboration, strategies to enhance educational philosophy, and the technical nuances that make this tool a transformative educational experience.

Tune in for insights, actionable tips, and a glimpse into the future of collaborative learning. Whether you're a student, educator, or industry professional, this episode aims to leave you enlightened and inspired.

Don't miss out – join the conversation today!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/3Rhnj7jZWl0

What Mob Programming is NOT Apr 08, 2024

Dive deep into the realm of collaborative programming with a unique twist in this episode of Mob Mentality Show where in the spirit of "just sharing" Austin Chadwick unravels 20+ misconceptions and anti-patterns surrounding Mob Programming.

From debunking the myth of Mobbing as merely 3+ individuals watching one person type to exploring the misconception of Mobbing being inherently slow and tedious, we dissect various preconceived notions about this innovative approach to coding. At this recorded Agile Lunch and Learn event, explore with us as we challenge the belief that Mobbing is monotonous and that every session involves wooden inflexible navigation and team composition.

Moreover, we shed light on the diverse roles within a Mob, addressing the anti-patterns that can hinder effective collaboration. Meet the Anti-Driver, the Anti-Navigator, the Anti-Nose and other personas that disrupt the harmony of Mob Programming. Discover how collaboration can falter under the influence of Fight Club dynamics, lack of prioritization, and lack of pressure protection.

At the end of this episode, we invite you to engage in a thought-provoking Q&A session, where we tackle burning questions about Mob Programming. Don't miss out on this opportunity to redefine your understanding of Mob Programming and revolutionize your approach to collaborative coding.

Tune in now to Mob Mentality Show and embark on a journey towards a deeper comprehension of Mob Programming – what it truly is not.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/Z5x5nYXBpis

From Consultant to Classroom: Unveiling Mob Programming's Impact on CS Education with Kieran Murphy Apr 01, 2024

In this compelling episode of the Mob Mentality Show, prepare to be immersed into the dynamic world of Computer Science (CS) education with none other than Kieran Murphy, who is not only a seasoned tech consultant but also a university CS instructor. This episode offers an exclusive peek into Kieran's journey and the profound implications of mob programming in the undergraduate CS classroom.

Throughout the episode, Kieran shares invaluable insights gleaned from his experiences, including the pros and cons of live coding sessions, the rationale behind integrating mob programming into the curriculum, and the tangible effects witnessed on students and on course structure and assignments. Delve into the nitty-gritty as we explore strategies for kick-starting code projects, navigating the dynamics of class sizes, and fostering effective communication and collaboration within the course.

Moreover, gain firsthand knowledge on facilitating constructive feedback exchanges among students, managing remote participation, and anchoring engaging mob sessions in virtual environments. From mini-retrospectives to timer rotations, no stone is left unturned as Kieran elucidates many intricacies of mob programming implementation in a computer science class.

But that's not all—tune in to discover the candid feedback received from students, as well as the invaluable lessons learned from this innovative approach to teaching. Whether it's embracing diverse learning styles, navigating IDE strategies, or instilling a growth mindset in budding coders, Kieran's expertise offers actionable insights for educators and learners alike.

So, whether you're a seasoned educator, aspiring developer, or simply curious about the future of CS education, this episode promises to inform, inspire, and spark meaningful dialogue. Don't miss out on this illuminating exploration of mob programming's role in shaping the next generation of tech talent!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/jtQ-Yeyowg4

The Collaborative Architect and Tech Lifestyle Coaching with Allan Stewart Mar 18, 2024

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Mob Mentality Show! In this episode, we delve deep into the dynamic world of software architecture and the transformative power of collaborative programming with the insightful Allan Stewart.

As a seasoned architect, Allan brings a wealth of experience to the table, shedding light on how mob programming influences architectural decisions and vice versa. Join us as we explore the nuances of architecture consistency, the impact of clean architecture on adaptability, and the vital role of communication and systems thinking in driving business results.

But that's not all! Allan takes us on a journey beyond traditional architectural roles, discussing the emergence of the collaborative architect within mob programming environments. Discover how one version of this role navigates multiple mobs, fosters cross-pollination of ideas, and champions humility in architectural decision-making.

Transitioning into the realm of technical lifestyle changes, Allan shares invaluable insights on bridging the gap between tech goals and real-world implementation. Going beyond "the waving of the magic wand of transformation" and instead kick-starting actual continuous improvement initiatives, Allan offers practical strategies for cultivating a culture of excellence within tech teams.

We also delve into the fascinating intersection of sociotechnical patterns and the challenges of overcoming apathy and resistance to change. Allan's "go-to" techniques for lifestyle technical coaching provides experiments for teams seeking long-term wins noticed by the business.

Finally, we explore mobbing contexts, from its applicability in startup environments to its impact on uncertainty and interdependence. Allan's firsthand experiences and thought-provoking insights shed light on the true essence of mob programming, its potential to revolutionize software design, and discovering the contexts for when it is effective and the contexts for when it is not effective.

So, whether you're a seasoned architect seeking fresh perspectives or a tech enthusiast embarking on a journey of transformation, this episode is packed with actionable insights to elevate your game. Tune in now and join the conversation with Allan Stewart!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/C2a1qBF6jtE

Teaming for Faster Cycle Times in the Device Industry with Luca Ingianni & Jeff Gable Mar 11, 2024

Welcome to a groundbreaking episode of the Mob Mentality Show, where worlds collide in a crossover event with Luca Ingianni & Jeff Gable from The Agile Embedded Podcast. Joining us as they delve deep into the intricacies of the embedded systems industry from a teaming/mobbing perspective.

In the first part of the discussion, industry veterans Jeff and Luca share their insights into the "Pain Points and Practices of the Embedded Systems Industry." They explore the challenges of code coupled to hardware and discuss strategies for breaking down isolated silos. Can Electrical Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, and Firmware Engineers all work well together? How has the industry coped with post-COVID supply chain issues, and is the traditional yearly release cycle still viable?

Key Highlights:

Code decoupling strategies
Adapting to post-COVID challenges
Breaking down industry silos
Cross-discipline team formation

In the second part of the discussion, Chris and Austin provide an "Intro to Mob Programming from an Embedded Systems Perspective." Uncover the dynamics of collaboration with firmware engineers, the power of ad-hoc mobbing, and the benefits of problem-solving together in real-time. Learn about the growth of mobbing, from "destroying silos" to "just sharing" and "coalition of the willing." The hosts explore sizing mobs/teams for large cross-functional IOT teams, live code reviews, and the application of Conway's Law.

Key Highlights:

Collaborative problem-solving
Mobbing for less coupling
Sizing mobs for large teams
Applying Conway's Law and Inverse Conway Maneuver

Join us on this journey of exploration and transformation, covering topics from safety-critical processes to clean architecture. Unleash the potential of Mob Programming in the embedded systems domain and discover new avenues for collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Tune in for a paradigm-shifting episode that will inspire, inform, and propel your understanding of teamwork and agility in the embedded systems industry. Don't miss out on this unique collaboration between Mob Mentality Show and The Agile Embedded Podcast!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/3D8TBaVQup8

Continuous Global Mobbing and Refactoring to Services with Skylar Watson Mar 05, 2024

🎙️ In this episode of Mob Mentality Show, we dive deep into the realms of continuous global mobbing sessions and the art of refactoring to services with the dynamic Skylar Watson. Brace yourself for an eye-opening conversation that explores the unprecedented challenges and triumphs of leading teams across multiple continents, all while optimizing effectiveness and fostering a global culture of collaboration.

🚀 **Continuous Global Mobbing Sessions**

🌍 Skylar takes us on a journey through his experiences in helping to orchestrate global mobbing sessions, where teams seamlessly transitioned their operations to the cloud. From the initiation of pair/mob coaching to running 24x5 mob sessions across different time zones, Skylar unveils the intricacies of managing overlapping periods and passing the development story baton from one continent to the next.

🕰️ Discover the impact on cycle time and throughput, and unravel the team dynamics when faced with the challenge of context passing. What were the initial reactions? How did team ownership versus individual contribution play out? Find out the surprising results and the lessons learned from this groundbreaking experiment.

🔄 **Mobbing Full-Time and Chats with VPs: Revolutionizing Work Prioritization**

💡 Skylar shares insights on how full-time mobbing can be a stress-relief prescription for development teams, transforming the chaos of multiple priorities into a streamlined, focused approach. Learn how the shift from "everything is #1 priority" to a singular #1 priority improved efficiency and sparked collaboration. Delve into the challenges faced when handling objections to mobbing, and explore the transformative power of mobbing as a problem-solving mechanism.

📈 Skylar's fascinating journey includes encounters with VPs and questioning traditional productivity norms. Hear the thrilling account of a Twitter post leading to a VP discussion on mobbing, and how the Mob experiment unfolded in a transparent "glass house" setting.

📚 **Skylar's Book on Refactoring to Services: Unlocking the Secrets of Microservices**

🛠️ Transitioning from mobbing to Skylar's expertise in refactoring, we explore his book on refactoring to services. Skylar provides valuable insights into extracting microservices from a monolith, discussing the nuances of branching versus Trunk Based Development (TBD). Gain practical knowledge through concrete examples, and unravel the mysteries of keeping changes small with inside-out versus outside-in refactoring.

📖 Dive into Skylar's evening projects, where he hones his skills and tests hypotheses. Discover the impact of Trunk Based Development on git skills and the art of "forgetting well." Skylar also gives us a teaser on his upcoming book on data empowerment.

🚀 Don't miss out on this episode as Skylar Watson takes us through the highs and lows of continuous global mobbing and the intricate process of refactoring to services. Tune in now for an immersive experience in the world of mob transformation!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/KUp6xE5Hy7c

Reducing Cost of Change Through Design with John Gallagher Feb 27, 2024

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Mob Mentality Show! In this edition, our guest, the remarkable John Gallagher, takes us on a journey through the intricate world of software design, focusing on the compelling theme - "Reducing Cost of Change Through Design."

🛠️ **Episode Highlights:**
- **John's Code Mentoring Journey:** Gain insights into John's remarkable journey of being mentored through the realms of code encapsulation, TDD, and the ripple effects from code changes.

- **Abstraction and Coupling:** Explore John's insights into the nuanced interplay of coupling and abstraction in software design. Discover how these principles contribute to the ultimate goal - Reducing the Cost of Change.

- **Software Design Simplified:** Delve into John's book, "Software Design Simplified," as he shares its origin story and how it addresses what is missing in many software design books.

- **Domain Modeling in Rails + Mobbing/Pairing:** Shift gears to the fascinating world of domain modeling in Rails with stakeholders from the business present daily. Understand the art of mapping domain to code using whiteboards, index cards, and magnets. Learn the secrets of better design through the powerful combination of tools, focus, and collaborative efforts within pair/mob programming scenarios. Experience the joy of kneading code like dough as John reveals his dream way of working - Domain-Driven Design paired with pair/mob programming.

- **Joyful Programming Inspired by Unison:** Embark on a visionary exploration of joyful programming inspired by Unison. Discover a truly unique programming language that re-invents everything including code with no builds and no files on disk.

🚀 ** Tune in now for an episode packed with wisdom, humor, and a wealth of practical knowledge for software enthusiasts!**

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/33rOocC2yBs

Game-Changing Creativity: Mob Worldbuilding and Analog Design with Emily Earhart and William Munn Feb 20, 2024

In this new episode come join the conversation that includes a fascinating blend of collaborative techniques and creative processes utilized in the development of games and fiction, highlighting the use of tools like Lean Coffee, Trello, Asana, and Notion to facilitate world building, mobbing, and game design. Chris Lucian, along with emergency co-host Luis Martinez, discusses with guests Emily Earhart and William Munn their unique approach to creating immersive game experiences and the seamless integration of agile/mob methodologies into creative endeavors.

Emily and William share insights into their tarot card RPG project, illustrating how collaborative analog design processes can yield innovative and engaging content. They emphasize the use of Lean Coffee to generate ideas and build consensus among team members, creating worlds that are diverse, unique, and compelling. The conversation also delves into the importance of making work visible, the joy of seeing progress through completed tasks, and the psychological benefits of organizing and visualizing work, whether in a professional setting or personal projects.

The discussion further explores how these collaborative and organizational strategies not only enhance productivity and creativity but also foster a supportive and inclusive environment for team members to contribute and refine ideas. The guests also touch upon the challenges and rewards of working collaboratively, the process of resolving conflicts, and the adaptability of these methodologies across different contexts, from game design to personal organization and beyond.

Emily and William's experiences underscore the fluidity between work and play, demonstrating that the principles of lean management and agile methodologies can be effectively applied to creative processes, enhancing both efficiency and enjoyment. Tune in to be inspired by their models of collaboration, communication, and organization and how it can transform the way we approach creative endeavors, making them more engaging, inclusive, and effective.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/94DeuBfwxDk

Mobbing Magic: Startups, Burnout, and Building Antifragile Teams with Jesse Riley Feb 06, 2024

Dive into the world of startups, burnout, and the alchemy of building antifragile teams with Jesse Riley on this episode of the Mob Mentality Show! Unpack mobbing/pairing in startups and small companies, where knowledge spreading and the bus factor is a game-changer. Discover how avoiding the knowledge bottleneck of one person can help your startup thrive undue pressure.

Explore the critical role of vacations in startups, the impact of stressed-out devs, and the art of hiring developer zero. Learn the significance of errors/bugs in a startup and why startups are somewhat analogous to safety-critical systems. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of feedback loops, integration needs, and unit testing in the startup ecosystem.

Discover how Lean/XP developers provide a competitive advantage for an org, seamlessly sliding into any team like a well-trained Navy Seal. Unearth the insightful Kanban/no-estimates story where "all stories are 1s" and weigh-in on the solution to the inverse semantic diffusion problem.

As we reflect on nearly two decades of Agile, question its future, and ponder if it's over, we explore the Agile Industrial Complex and distinguish between the marketing term and the true philosophy. Is "Agile" in need of improvement, or are we entering a new era of iterative practices?

Cap off the episode by delving into the art of mentoring new devs and CTOs alike. Gain insights into guiding the next generation in the ever-evolving landscape of software development.

Tune in for a riveting conversation that unveils the magic of mobbing, the resilience of antifragile teams, and the secrets to sustaining success in the startup ecosystem. Subscribe now for your weekly dose of wisdom and actionable insights.

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/LCXbrmwbTX4

Mobbing as the Keystone of Evolved XP with Philip Markgraf Jan 30, 2024

Join us for an insightful conversation with Philip Markgraf on how Mobbing serves as the keystone of the third generation of XP, pushing the boundaries of innovation, evolution, and continuous improvement.

In this episode, we explore:

1. The Evolution of XP Practices in Phil's Mobs

Dive into the nuances of "full mob" adoption and its implications for team dynamics.
Discover simple definitions that unveil the deeper richness of mobbing.
Is mobbing synonymous with "all the good things," or, is it simply "all the brilliant minds working on the same thing, at the same time, in the same space, on the same computer"?
Explore the importance of a good player/coach in fostering effective mobbing.
Contrast building a mob team from scratch with introducing mob Test-Driven Development (TDD) to existing teams.
Is good mobbing the cornerstone to all else? Or, is it TDD? Or, is it The Virtuous Loop?

2. Mobbing in Safety-Critical and High-Reliability Software

Understand the rationale behind TDD mobbing in safety-critical systems.
Delve into the challenges of achieving zero bugs in medical and safety-critical environments.
Uncover ways to address the issue of flakey end-to-end tests in critical systems.

3. Lightweight Methodologies for Regulated Industries

Follow Phil's journey from embedded systems to mob programming.
Gain insights into applying XP in Embedded and IoT development.
Explore mobbing experiments in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, firmware, and software.

4. Solo Programming After 20 Years of Mobbing

Navigate the challenges of solo programming after years of pairing and mobbing.
Tackle loneliness and loss of motivation in the absence of collaborative programming.
Discover strategies for playing the Mob RPG alone and staying motivated.

Tune in for a captivating discussion that transcends traditional programming methodologies!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/Y4aHoiKh2XA

Elevating CD to Zero Bugs via Lean Mobbing with David Batten Jan 22, 2024

Dive into the world of zero bugs and lean mobbing with David Batten on this episode of Mob Mentality Show. Discover the distinction between the scary and healthy versions of zero bugs, and explore how David and his teams achieved a bug-free environment. Uncover insights on when to shift focus away from zero bugs, anti-patterns to avoid, and the art of baking quality into your code.

Explore the synergy of Lean principles, Continuous Delivery (CD), and Test Driven Development (TDD) as David shares how they got to zero bugs as a natural side effect. Learn about the application of the prime directive to foster continuous improvement and the joy of being in a bug-free system.

Explore the facet of Lean where we draw systems and seek ways to shorten feedback loops. Gain insights into the business perspective on Lean and the power of tiny commits. Understand the role of Lean in risk conversion, frequency, and Domain Driven Design (DDD) for organizational simplicity.

Join us in exploring the art of mobbing as David recounts his first mobbing experience to meet a deadline and shares his 9 years of mobbing wisdom. Learn how having the entire system in the room ensures that when it's done, it's truly done. David also discusses the impact of mobbing on CD, the benefits of bringing the best of everyone into the code, and a sneak peek into the April 2024 Teaming Conference.

If you're passionate about #mobprogramming, #bugszero, #continuousdelivery, #tdd, #leanthinking, #xp, this episode is a must-listen. Elevate your coding mindset and join the conversation on achieving zero bugs naturally through lean mobbing!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/8-EL9x89Ag0

Mobbing Impact: Opening New Doors and Sharing the Joy with Robin van den Bogaard Jan 15, 2024

Come hear the story of a thriving team dynamic in this episode of Mob Mentality Show with special guest Robin van den Bogaard! Join us as we delve into the journey of Robin's team experimenting with mobbing, transforming their approach from Scrum to pair to mob collaboration.

In discussion, we explore the pros and cons of the mobbing experiment, from the initial skepticism of Product Owners to management's response. Discover what it is like to be in a system where no need to ask to mob... just do it!

Gain insights into the organizational and Product Owner perspective shift on the teams' ability to deliver and the remarkable impact of mobbing on domain knowledge sharing. Learn about the likelihood of painting yourself into a corner in a mob versus going solo, and the integration of Kanban, flow, and Scrum, along with the intricacies of working with Jira and estimates while mobbing.

Explore the transformative effects of mobbing on team communication, sensitivity to tension, and addressing the elephant in the room. Uncover the strategies for mining for conflict early in the mob and creating an environment where teams can "say anything" to each other.

Also join us as we discuss how mobbing led to the opening of new doors, enabling team members to give talks internally and externally. Revel in the fun experiences of being the first person to introduce mobbing to someone.

Whether you're interested in mini-daily retrospectives, improving design and scouting in micro-services with ports and adapters, or navigating the challenges of too much low-level navigation in a mob, this episode covers it all. In addition, hear about the horror story of an old repo becoming unbuildable, the new pattern of staying radically up to date every day, and the impact to security.

Tune in to Mob Mentality Show today and discover the transformative power of mobbing with Robin van den Bogaard, where joy, collaboration, and innovation intersected in his ensemble to create a dynamic and effective team culture!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/9vUyLOLQtzQ

Frequent Rotations, Maximum Impact: Elevating Pair Programming with Gabriel Robaina and Kieran Murphy Jan 08, 2024

🚀 Dive deep into the world of Pair Programming with Gabriel Robaina and Kieran Murphy as they unravel how to tune this "Sensible Default Practice" into even more of a game-changer! 💻✨

In this episode, our discussion covers crucial aspects of pair programming that go beyond the basics. Are your pairing sessions dragging on for too long? Do you notice anti-patterns similar to solo programming? Learn how to identify and address these issues with Gabriel and Kieran's insights.

Explore the journey that led their team to embrace pair rotations and the valuable lessons learned along the way. Is pairing valuable but challenging? Uncover strategies to make it work for your team and turn challenges into opportunities.

🔍 Key Highlights:
- Observing and responding to low engagement during planning
- Breaking down knowledge silos within a pair
- The "hurt so do it more" philosophy: Does it really work?
- Implementing the Pairing Pomodoro technique
- Pair switching logistics: within a team vs. between teams
- Overcoming resistance to pair switching
- Ensuring bug fixes by anyone on the team through collaborative efforts
- Maintaining context with pair rotations via minimum viable anchoring
- Distinguishing between anchor role and champion role in pair swapping
- Logistics of pair rotations: open-ended self-organized vs. planned in detail
- Mob swaps: dice rolls and "wheels of doom" 😅
- Story slicing techniques conducive to pair rotations
- Using Mural boards for pair and work context
- Long-running retro boards: What's hard vs. easy with pairing
- Building strong team connections through pair swaps
- Incorporating feedback practices within pairs

Also, stay tuned for an exciting teaser on "Mob Programming in a Computer Science Classroom Setting" that will leave you eager for more collaborative insights!

Watch now for a dose of practical wisdom that will impact your approach to collaborative coding. 🎙️✨

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/aurVZM6ZTUw

Healthy vs. Destructive Speed in the Diffusion of Innovation Jan 01, 2024

Dive into the intricate world of innovation diffusion on this episode of the Mob Mentality Show. Join us as we dissect the dynamics between healthy and destructive speeds in team switching, exploring the nuances that shape team cultures and impact the quality of outcomes.

🚀 **Episode Highlights:**

**Navigating the Pace of Innovation:** Engage in a thought-provoking discussion on the healthy and destructive facets of innovation diffusion. Explore the repercussions of fast and slow diffusion, addressing critical questions like whether innovation can happen too swiftly, causing semantic diffusion, or if it can be hindered by insulated innovators.

**Balancing Act: Culture and Quality:** Delve into the delicate balance between preserving organizational culture and ensuring the quality of innovations. Uncover strategies for fostering a culture that encourages experimentation while upholding high standards.

**Coaching Dynamics:** Explore the dynamics of short-term versus long-term coaching, dissecting how coaching durations impact team growth. Learn actionable insights on how to effectively nurture and grow collaborative mobs.

**Team Switching Strategies:** Unpack the challenges of dynamic reteaming and team switching, investigating whether excessive switching can lead to problems or if inadequate switching stifles the spread of positive changes. Discover the intricacies of promiscuous pairing/mobbing and the Two Team Linking Navigator Pattern.

**Preserving Lofty Goals:** Join the debate on preserving the outcomes of ambitious goals amidst the dynamic landscape of team growth and innovation. Gain valuable insights into strategies that allow teams to maintain focus on their lofty aspirations.

Tune in for an exploration of the healthy and destructive speeds in the diffusion of innovation. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious learner, this episode helps you navigate the complexities of team dynamics and systems thinking. Don't miss the chance to enhance your understanding of effective collaboration and growth strategies in the ever-evolving world of software development! 🌐

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/nDieux1ZqGs

The Impact of Programmer Professionalism: A Historical Perspective with Uncle Bob Martin Dec 17, 2023

Venture into the rich tapestry of professional programmer history with the prolific Uncle Bob Martin on this episode of the Mob Mentality Show.

🕰️ **Episode Highlights:**

**Unveiling Programmer History:** Join Uncle Bob as he unfolds the history of programmers, emphasizing their humanity beyond mere coding. Explore fascinating anecdotes about pioneers like Grace Hopper and Edsger Dijkstra, discovering the roots of code as it evolved from the manual computation era to the present.

**Code Collaboration Through the Ages:** Delve into collaboration patterns, uncovering the early instances of social programming.

**The Quest for the Perfect Language:** Journey through the landscape of programming languages, paradigm shifts, and the impact of TDD. Uncle Bob shares insights on the nuances of runtime vs. compile-time type checking and his personal odyssey into functional programming via Lisp and Clojure.

**Impactful Professionalism:** Explore the profound impact of programmer professionalism on society. Uncle Bob discusses the unprecedented world dependence on such a young software industry, emphasizing the importance of learning in safe spaces.

Tune in for an enlightening exploration of programmer history, language evolution, and the pivotal role of professionalism in shaping the technological landscape. Whether you're a seasoned developer or an aspiring programmer, this episode promises valuable insights into the roots and future of our coding journey. 🚀

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/Pv_bzO95qqs

An Introvert’s Reflections on Remote Mob Programming with Chris Stone Dec 10, 2023

Dive into the intricacies of remote mob programming from the perspective of an introvert on this episode of the Mob Mentality Show with our guest, Chris Stone. Join us for a fascinating exploration of the benefits and challenges, seasoned with 2.5 years of Chris's mobbing experience.

🌟 **Episode Highlights:**

**Unlocking the Introvert's Tale:** Delve into the unique insights of an introvert's journey in collaborative coding. Chris Stone unravels the energy dynamics of mob programming, addressing the complexities of social coordination versus solo work and the nuances of giving feedback in a mob versus pull requests.

**Remote Work: Beyond the Office Walls:** Challenge the common notion that collaboration thrives only within office walls. Explore how remote mob programming becomes the key to maintaining programming jobs remotely and whether this strategy could be the cornerstone of the future of work.

**Litmus Test for Collaboration:** Is the willingness to mob a litmus test for qualities like empathy, humility, and honesty? Unpack the semantics of "Remote Work" and discover the contrasting experiences of team meetings versus the engaging world of mobbing.

**Retrospectives and the Art of Experimentation:** Chris Stone provides insights into using retrospectives as a powerful tool to foster authentic engagement and experimentation with skeptics within mob programming. Gain practical tips on structuring retros, facilitating them, and leveraging constraints for creative breakthroughs.

Tune in to gain a fresh perspective on remote mob programming, tailored for introverts. Whether you're an avid mob programmer or exploring collaborative coding, this episode offers valuable insights for all. Don't miss the chance to enhance your understanding of effective remote work and team collaboration! 🚀

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/zDd6HnP9uUk

Mob Learning: 2 Practices to Improve Teams and Coaches Simultaneously with Michael Wolf Dec 03, 2023

From an RV at a national park in the woods to the beaches of an ocean reef resort on the coast, Michael Wolf can be found finding joy in remote work and remote mob learning. Join us today on the Mob Mentality Show as he shares his unique experiences and insights.

🌐 **Episode Highlights:**

**Foundation of New Teams with Mob Learning:** Explore how Mob Learning serves as a robust foundation for the formation of new teams. Michael delves into the power of joining a mob to code, emphasizing the importance of embracing discomfort and learning through hands-on experiences.

**Agile Coaching and Scrum Mastery:** Discover the transformative impact of Mob Learning on agile coaching and scrum master skills where Michael advocates both being a coach and being coached.

**Navigating Remote Mob Patterns:** Uncover the nuances of remote mob patterns, breaking down barriers between "us" and "them." Michael explores the pros and cons of Mob Learning, offering practical tips to enhance the learning experience for participants.

**Effective Collaboration Practices:** From avoiding "stupid gas" to maintaining focus on bright spots, learn the keys to effective collaboration in a mob. Michael shares insights on creating a safe space for all levels of experience.

**Michael's Weekly World Mobbing Tour:** From the Mob RPG Ensemble to the ApprovalTests.Python Ensemble to Code Craft Saturday/Sunday, Michael shares his weekly experiences in the vibrant public mob community.

Tune in to discover the essence of Mob Learning and its transformative influence on teams, coaches, and individuals. This episode is a great listen for anyone seeking to harness the power of collaborative learning in the dynamic world of software development. 🚀

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/XDOiV2J1pVo

Remote Cross Continent Mob Programming with Jeff Langr, Nick Goede, Merlijn Tishauser Nov 26, 2023

Set out on a journey across continents in this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, where we explore the dynamic realm of remote cross-continent mob programming. Join our guests Jeff Langr, Nick Goede, and Merlijn Tishauser as they share stories and insights from their year-long collaboration on a front-end project.

🌐 **Episode Highlights:**

**Navigating Time Zones:** Explore the intricacies of establishing core working hours in a cross-continent ensemble. Uncover how the team managed flexibility and handled work outside of these core hours, featuring insights into maintaining a relaxed yet productive schedule.

**Fluid Team Dynamics:** Learn how the mob coped with the dynamic flow of people coming and going. Understand strategies for a more flexible and adaptable team/mob schedule, fostering a collaborative environment that thrives on change.

**Optimal Mob Size:** Join the discussion on the optimal mob size for maximum engagement and productivity. Delve into the impact of day-to-day variance in mob size, and discover how automation and various roles can contribute to efficient mobbing, especially when mobbing on "pixels."

**Outsourced Mob Challenges:** Understand the client collaboration patterns in an outsourced mob setting. Navigate the challenges of being a team without access to internal people/resources.

**Remote vs. In-Person Collaboration:** Compare the experiences of remote and in-person collaboration, examining the unique dynamics of XP mobs interacting with potentially non-agile stakeholders. Explore the joy of mobbing and building trust through seamless delivery despite system challenges.

Tune in for a compelling exploration of remote cross-continent mob programming and discover the delight that emerges amidst the complexities of global collaboration. Don't miss this episode packed with real-world experiences and insights from seasoned technical coaches! 🌍🚀

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/6jI-VI8-TLU

Mob Programming in Summer of Nix 2023 with Lorenz, Dawn, Valentin, Albert, and Auguste Nov 19, 2023

Embark on an immersive exploration of Mob Programming in the Summer of Nix 2023 in this episode of the Mob Mentality Show. Joining us are participants Lorenz, Dawn, Valentin, Albert, and Auguste as they unravel the intricacies of this unique collaborative experience.

🚀 **Episode Highlights:**

**Understanding Nix and the Summer of Nix Program**
- Gain insights into the fundamentals of Nix and an introduction to the Summer of Nix program. Explore how ensemble programming is utilized to learn, collaborate, and tackle issues across a spectrum of technologies.

**Mobbing to Learn: Navigating the Nix Community and NixOS Project**
- Dive into the fascinating world of mob programming as a tool to efficiently onboard less experienced programmers. Discover how the Summer of Nix acts as a gateway to the Nix community and the expansive NixOS project.

**Open Source Collaboration Challenges: From Visibility to Accessibility**
- Uncover the general challenges faced in a program like Summer of Nix, focusing on making open source work more visible and accessible. Explore the redundancy and social commitment benefits of mobs when collectively working on impactful open-source projects.

**A Ride through Summer of Nix: Past Editions vs. 2023**
- Take a comparative journey through the previous editions of Summer of Nix and the unique aspects defining the 2023 edition. Learn about the dynamics of helping project authors get their work "taken for a ride" through collaborative efforts.

Tune in to this illuminating episode for an insider's perspective on the Summer of Nix 2023, where mob programming becomes a catalyst for knowledge-sharing, problem-solving, and fostering a vibrant open-source community. Don't miss out on the camaraderie and insights shared by our awesome panel. 🌟

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/VnT5VxMFGAI

A Dispassionate Tour of Complexity, Imprecision, and Unprofessionalism with Seb Rose Nov 12, 2023

Dive into a thought-provoking episode of the Mob Mentality Show as we embark on a dispassionate tour of complexity, imprecision, and unprofessionalism with the insightful Seb Rose.

🎙️ Episode Highlights:

**Beyond "Best Practices"**: Challenge the fallacy of "best practices" as Seb Rose unveils a pragmatic perspective on navigating the intricate world of software development. Explore the implications of the Cynefin Framework and learn the art of offering advice in a pattern format, promoting a culture of learning over dogmatic adherence.

**Dispassionate Professionalism**: Discover the difference between passion, professionalism, enthusiasm, and grit. Explore the realms of dispassionate professionalism, the allure of fast universal answers, and the power of vulnerability.

**Sustainability & Agility**: Join us as we reflect on the relation between sustainability, agile conferences, lean, computing, and remote mob programming.

Tune in for an enriching conversation that explores navigating complexity with a dispassionate yet engaged mindset. 🚀

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/VfZfBDidNXE

Collaborating with AI: Insights from David Bernstein’s New Book Nov 05, 2023

Join us for an enlightening episode of the Mob Mentality Show as we delve into the fascinating realm of collaborating with AI. Our guest, David Bernstein, is the co-author of a new book on prompt engineering, and he's here to provide key insights into mastering the art of working with AI.

📚 Episode Highlights:

**Prompt Engineering for Everyone**: David introduces the concept of prompt engineering and highlights the universal applicability of this skill.

**A Glimpse into David's New Book**: Get a sneak peek into David's latest book, co-authored with AI 🤖. Learn how it can empower you to become a proficient collaborator with AI systems.

**Unlocking AI Collaboration for All**: Explore the scope of the book, covering prompt engineering from beginner to intermediate and advanced levels, making AI collaboration accessible to all.

**Treating AI as a Human**: David discusses the importance of approaching AI as if it were a human, enabling effective collaboration and communication.

**Common Pitfalls and Challenges**: David sheds light on common pitfalls to avoid when engaging with AI/LLM systems.

**Exploring Prompt Nuances**: Delve into the subtleties of prompt engineering techniques, encompassing both open-ended and close-ended prompts.

**AI Collaboration Beyond Coding**: David shares fascinating insights into using prompt engineering for diverse domains.

**Thriving with AI**: Discover how AI can be a valuable asset for software developers, aiding in prototyping and problem-solving.

Tune in for an illuminating discussion on the power of prompt engineering and effective collaboration with AI. Whether you're a coding enthusiast or simply curious about the future of AI, this episode will provide valuable insights into the AI landscape. Don't miss it! 🤖🎙️

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/tYGRT4clt88

A Less Technical Coach’s Guide to Effective Mobbing with Nazee Hajebi Oct 29, 2023

Join us for an expansive episode of the Mob Mentality Show as we jump into effective mob programming with a twist: facilitating as a less technical coach. We are joined by Nazee Hajebi as she brings this fresh perspective into the world of ensemble programming.

🎙️ Episode Highlights:

**Starting the Mob Journey**: Nazee shares her real-life experiences and insights into helping teams kickstart their mob programming journey.

**Obstacles and Overcoming**: Discover the common obstacles Nazee faced as a non-technical coach and learn her valuable tips for overcoming these challenges. Find out how to tackle the fear of other developers and the art of establishing an experimental mindset that encourages trying twice before saying "no forever."

**Setting the Stage**: Learn the crucial steps to set the stage effectively before diving into a mob programming session. Identify common anti-patterns and pitfalls of the first mob session and how to steer clear of them.

**Why Non-Tech Coaches Mob**: Understand the compelling reasons why non-technical scrum masters or coaches should try facilitating mobbing sessions. Explore the value of mobbing and whether it's a waste of time from a non-tech perspective. Compare a 2-week pull request process to all tasks completed in the same day with mobbing.

**Domain First**: Uncover the importance of helping the mob speak in plain language, demystifying complex technical jargon.

**Vulnerability and Growth**: Learn the power of demonstrating vulnerability and fostering a growth mindset within the mob. Delve into coaching anxiety in a mob and the deliberate purpose of each mob session. Discover the art of coaching not just on code but also on effective communication and collaboration.

**Mentoring the Mentors**: Nazee's insights into mentoring other non-tech coaches to facilitate mobs and lower the bar for what it takes to be a great mob coach.

**Tech Allies and Tech Learning**: The role of having a tech ally within the mob session and the when, why, and how of starting with simple problems like "fizz buzz." Learn the process of non-technical coaches learning tech as they facilitate mobs.

Tune in to gain unique insights into effective mob programming from a non-technical angle. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in fostering collaborative and productive teams, regardless of their technical background. Don't miss it! 🌟
Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/9OHBV9GSJJQ

Mastering the High Stakes Arena: A Story of Mobbing Under Pressure with Giovanni Asproni Oct 22, 2023

Welcome to an adrenaline-pumping episode of The Mob Mentality Show! In this captivating installment, titled "Mastering the High Stakes Arena: A Story of Mobbing Under Pressure with Giovanni Asproni," we dive into the thrilling world of Mob Programming in high-pressure environments.

Join us as we embark on an exploration of high stakes work, dissecting the very definition of what "high stakes" truly means. Giovanni Asproni takes us on a roller-coaster ride through his enthralling story of Mob Programming under the intense pressure of a high-stakes scenario.

Discover the challenges and triumphs faced during those critical first moments with a new team amidst a high-stakes project. Giovanni provides insights into the diverse skill sets and experience levels within and outside the mob, shedding light on whether the decision to mob was driven by the high stakes or not.

Uncover the significance of bugs in high-stakes products, and the accessibility and security constraints in this specific situation. In the midst of high-stakes work, Giovanni emphasizes the unwavering commitment to quality, exemplified by full Test-Driven Development (TDD) and the art of story slicing.

Delve into the world of unorthodox design for observability and the dynamics of decision-making in high-pressure mob settings. Explore the rapid shift to radical candor while the pressure mounts and learn strategies for managing stress within the ensemble.

Giovanni shares his experiences of mobbing under pressure with unfamiliar team members, touching upon the role of a team/mob firewall/gatekeeper and the value of pairing during meetings. Gain insights into overcoming major challenges when mobbing versus working solo and the critical importance of the bus factor and resilience in high-stakes endeavors.

Unearth the secrets behind maintaining high automation levels and Giovanni's epic 16-hour mobbing marathon learning Terraform. Discover the nuanced approach to TDD within the mob while having manual testing support outside of it.

And yes, we even explore the surreal scenario of having a prime minister as a major stakeholder - you won't want to miss that story! Join us as we discuss their race against time to deliver and authentically demonstrate lean principles within the mob.

Uncover the concept of "Productive Paranoia," and understand the impact of real vs. artificial crisis modes on work dynamics. Is it possible to channel the benefits of crisis-mode work into non-crisis projects without causing destruction? Giovanni shares his thoughts not only on this but also on coaching in a crisis and whether non-XP ways of working naturally lead to crises.

Don't miss this high-energy, high-insight episode as we unravel the secrets of how a team mastered a high-stakes arena through Mob Programming. Tune in and immerse yourself in the world of ensemble teaming like never before!

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/-tgjrd8sL2U

Revolutionizing Education: Agile@School® Methodology Unveiled with André De Sousa Oct 15, 2023

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Mob Mentality Show! In this episode with André De Sousa we dive deep into the innovative approach of Agile@School® methodology and its transformative impact on education.

Join us as we explore various facets of this groundbreaking methodology, including pairing and mobbing within the school environment, the criteria for selecting pairs/mobs and granting autonomy to students. André De Sousa sheds light on how work is allocated and curated, alongside discussions on eduScrum, curriculum, excellence, and code quality.

Discover student reactions to newfound autonomy, the significance of reflection and retro cadence, and the broader scope of the methodology across different educational settings. André shares insights into the integration of Agile@School® in coding schools, emphasizing its unique aspects compared to traditional educational experiences.

We unravel the remarkable journey of a school story, evolving from a modest start to educating 450 students within six years, some of whom began with no prior coding experience. Listen as we explore the pivotal roles of mentors, their inspiring influence on students, and how former students contribute by teaching current peers.

Intrigued by the logistics of "20% Google Time," apprenticeships during degree programs, and subsequent job offers post-degree? André discusses experimentation, failure, Kanban Gemba Walk, and constructive feedback mechanisms among students.

Learn about the impressive results achieved by the school by the third and fifth year, the emotional responses and feedback from students, and the ambitious scaling to two classrooms. This episode is a treasure trove of insights into a methodology reshaping the educational landscape.

Tune in for an inspiring and informative discussion that could revolutionize the way we perceive and approach education. Don't miss this episode of The Mob Mentality Show!

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/c0tRUTQkPV0

MicroObjects with Quinn Gil Oct 08, 2023

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Mob Mentality Show! Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of MicroObjects with the creator himself, Quinn Gil. Prepare to unravel the intricacies of object-oriented programming practices taken to the next level.

In this episode, we embark on an exploratory journey covering a multitude of key aspects:

Mastering MicroObjects & OOP: Quinn guides us through the world of MicroObjects and how they dial up traditional object-oriented programming practices.
SRP to the Extreme!: Quinn explains how MicroObjects takes the Single Responsibility Principle (SRP) to new heights, making emergent design and evolutionary architecture unavoidable.
Ruthless Refactoring: Discover the art of ruthless refactoring - a key practice that MicroObjects emphasizes for keeping code highly resistant to code rot.
Knowledge Transfer to Code: Learn effective methods for having a representation for every concept exist in the code.
MicroObjects Principles Debated: Join us as we discuss many of the key MicroObjects principles including no 'new' inline, no primitives, composition over inheritance, no enums, no constructor logic, wrapping 3rd party code, and preventing yourself from doing bad things.
Persuading Others to Try MicroObjects: Quinn shares insights into effectively persuading your team to try MicroObjects, highlighting its benefits and advantages including stuff getting done faster.

Defeating the Sunk Cost Fallacy: Understand to overcome the sunk cost fallacy with code, leading to better decision-making in development.
TDD and Design Discovery: Explore the powerful synergy between Test-Driven Development (TDD) and design discovery, and how it can enhance your development process.

Join us for an engaging conversation packed with wisdom and expertise, as we unravel the secrets of MicroObjects and its impact on software development. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights into optimizing your coding practices and elevating your projects to the next level.

Tune in now to unlock the potential of MicroObjects!
Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/W6C1C9i78Ec

The 5th Habit of a Highly Effective Mobber: Empathetic Listening (7 Habits) Oct 01, 2023

Join us in this episode of the Mob Mentality Show where we venture into the realm of fostering deep listening and understanding within mob programming. In this discussion, we unveil the profound 5th Habit of a Highly Effective Mobber: Empathetic Listening, drawing inspiration from Stephen R. Covey's timeless "7 Habits" book.

🎧 Episode Highlights:

Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood: Exploring Covey's fundamental principle and its profound impact on effective communication.
Empathy Pathways through Patterns and Diagrams: From "Everyone Draws" Patterns to Causal Loop Diagrams and Decision Trees - navigating empathy for enhanced understanding.
Literary Wisdom on Empathy: Delving into a powerful empathy quote from "To Kill a Mockingbird" and its timeless relevance.
Empathy Mocked: Uncovering humor and lessons in fake "Reflective Listening" from The Office sitcom 😅.
Autobiographical Listening: Understanding its pitfalls and the path to true empathy in our listening approach.
Mob Programming and Empathetic Driver/Navigator Pattern: How this naturally embeds reflective listening, promoting empathy in the team.
Philosophical Musings: Reflecting on the epistemological empathy question, "What Is It Like to Be a Bat?"
Benefits Beyond Perfection: Acknowledging the gains of empathy, even in imperfect attempts, and its positive impact on team building.

Tune in and enrich your understanding of the 5th Habit - an essential pillar for every highly effective mobber. 🌟
Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/RqazNQKZ0bM

Journey to Joy: Tracking Happiness and The Satir Change Model Sep 24, 2023

Join us in this episode of the Mob Mentality Show as we embark on a journey to unravel the intricacies of happiness tracking and its correlation with the Satir Change Model. Delve into the world of team dynamics, psychology, and the power of tracking in both in-person and remote mob settings.

Episode Highlights:
- 🌟 Uncover the origin story and the overview of happiness tracking within mobs.
- 🌍 Explore the differences between tracking in-person versus remote.
- 📊 Analyze the comparison of tracking data for individuals versus a visual representation encompassing an entire organizational spectrum.
- 🔄 Understand how tracking acts as a catalyst for experimentation and continuous improvement within mob environments.
- 🗓️ Gain insights into the contrasting approaches of tracking recent versus long-term happiness trends and their implications on team dynamics.
- 💬 Explore the need for Radical Candor and Psychological Safety while tracking happiness.
- 🎯 Delve into the intriguing question: Is tracking happiness synonymous with tracking the Satir Change Model?
- 🧩 Unlock the potential of pattern thinking for happiness tracking.
- 🚨 Discover how tracking serves as an indicator for identifying mobs in need of support and intervention.
- 🤔 Tracking necessary in a healthy mob with frequent mini-retros?
- 🗣️ Learn about the crucial role tracking plays in unearthing silent dissatisfaction and fostering open communication within mobs.
- 🌟 Gain valuable insights through real-life examples of coaching based on varying levels of happiness, from low to high.

Tune in to this episode that explores the intersection of happiness tracking and the Satir Change Model. Equip yourself with practical knowledge and actionable strategies to foster joy and well-being within your team or organization. Don't miss this opportunity to embark on a transformative journey toward a happier, more effective mob environment!

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/yBuwU-QwBSc

The Unprecedented Virtual Tour: Inside the World of Code Crafting Remote Mobs Sep 17, 2023

Are you ready for an unprecedented glimpse into the dynamic world of remote mob programming? Join us in this exclusive episode of the Mob Mentality Show, where we provide an inside look into the innovative realm of code crafting and ensemble programming.

Episode Highlights:

🔍 Behind the Scenes - Mobbing Environments: Take a tour of our in-person and remote mobbing environments, witnessing the transformation brought about by the advent of remote work. Explore the intricacies of our morning learning hour and delve into the specifics of 5 diverse mobs, from tech stack to team switching frequency.

🚀 Synergy of Code Craft and Ensemble Programming: Discover how ensemble programming fuels the creation of well-crafted, high-quality software. Uncover the various elements, from defect prevention to sustainable pace, that constitute the core of successful code crafting.

🎙️ Lean Coffee Discussion: Engage in a stimulating Lean Coffee discussion covering critical topics such as hiring practices for crafters, the nuances of the Inverse Conway Maneuver, the importance of working agreements, and the unique challenges and advantages of remote mob tools.

Embark on this eye-opening journey into the heart of collaborative software development. Witness the power of collective intelligence and the art of crafting software that truly stands the test of time. Watch now and immerse yourself in the future of code crafting!

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/GCfUrNCxbgc

Fundamentals, Not Silver Bullets with Bryan Finster Sep 10, 2023

Are you ready to dive deep into the essence of software development? Join us in this enlightening episode of the Mob Mentality Show as we explore the core principles and fundamentals that underpin successful software development with the exceptional Bryan Finster.

Episode Highlights:

🛠️ Mastering the Basics: Discover the timeless importance of software development fundamentals. We break down the essential elements that lay the foundation for excellence.

📝 Agile Story Slicing: Learn the art of breaking down complex tasks into manageable chunks, a fundamental skill that empowers developers to deliver quickly and iteratively.

🛡️ Refactoring and Testing: Explore the vital roles of refactoring and testing in the pursuit of software greatness. Understand why they are indispensable components of the development process.

💎 Shiny Garbage Dilemma: Bryan unveils the common pitfall of delivering "shiny garbage" and shares insights on how to avoid this trap.

🤝 Coaching Conflict: Navigate the nuances of coaching conflict within development teams. Discover effective strategies for fostering healthy debate and growth.

🤔 Vendor Tools Demystified: Bryan delves into the world of vendor tools, offering guidance on distinguishing between the valuable and the overhyped.

📚 Learning Fundamentals: We explore the balance between learning vendor tools and mastering the fundamentals of software development.

📈 CD Fundamentals: Bryan addresses the learning curve associated with Continuous Delivery (CD) fundamentals and whether they are attainable for everyone.

🔍 Real-time Feedback: Understand why real-time feedback is the lifeblood of agility. Explore the critical role it plays in maintaining a responsive development process.

🛠️ Rock vs. Nail Gun Analogy

👁️ Demonstrating Good CD: Learn how to demonstrate effective Continuous Delivery practices in a non-prescriptive manner.

🏗️ Microservices Wisdom: Delve into the world of good design and testing to prevent catastrophic microservices failures.

🥒 True BDD and Microservices: Explore the true meaning of Behavior-Driven Development (BDD) in the context of microservices.

📜 Contract Driven Development: Uncover the principles of Contract-Driven Development and why it is crucial for scalable, maintainable designs and teams.

🤖 "No Frameworks" Philosophy: Bryan shares insights on adopting a "No Frameworks" approach and the value of problem-solving with a Minimum Viable Continuous Delivery mindset.

💬 Messaging CD: Learn how to effectively communicate Continuous Delivery concepts with kindness, honesty, and respect.

📊 Destructive Dashboards: Explore the dangers of relying on individual metrics and the pitfalls of poorly designed dashboards.

Tune in to this episode filled with wisdom, insights, and a fresh perspective on software development. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of software development fundamentals. Watch now to embark on a journey toward software excellence!

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/-jBx1LCsZrY

The Intern Mob Chronicles: Eduardo Lopez and Jeric Baga’s Journey Sep 03, 2023

Join us on an enlightening journey into the world of software development internships in this episode of the Mob Mentality Show titled "The Intern Mob Chronicles." We sit down with Eduardo Lopez and Jeric Baga, who share their notable experiences and insights from their unique mob programming internship journey.

Episode Highlights:

🚀 Mob Programming Internship: Eduardo and Jeric take us through their adventurous journey as interns in a dynamic mob programming environment.

🔍 The Application Process: Discover how they learned about the internship opportunity and successfully applied to be part of this rare experience.

🤝 Mob-Style Interviews: Get a behind-the-scenes look at what it's like to be interviewed in a mob programming style, alongside 20 other candidates, all at the same time.

🌄 The Beginning: Explore the initial stages of their internship and how they embarked on this adventure.

🏢 Hybrid Work: Understand the challenges and advantages of working in a hybrid setting, combining remote and in-person collaboration.

💻 First Katas: Dive into their first coding challenges, working alongside fellow intern co-workers.

🤔 Code Project Selection: Discover how they chose a code project to work on as part of their mob programming journey.

🌐 Mob Tour: Join them on a tour of various full-time engineer mobs and gain insights into their diverse experiences.

⏳ The Midpoint: Navigate through the middle phase of their internship, including how they handled disagreements among interns.

🚀 Innovation and Discovery: Explore the innovative and collective discoveries made during their time in the intern ensemble.

🧠 Learning from Experts: Understand what it's like to mob with and learn from full-time software engineers, including mastering different Test-Driven Development (TDD) styles.

🎉 End of Internship: Hear about the exciting events that marked the conclusion of their internship, including mob demos and presentations.

😄 Humor as a Tool: Learn how humor played a role in their intern mob experience.

🏆 Biggest Wins and Struggles: Eduardo and Jeric share their most significant achievements and challenges while ensemble programming in an intern mob.

🔄 Role Reversal: Explore the unique perspective of Eduardo and Jeric as they transitioned from interns to coaches, guiding the most recent intern mob.

🎥 Behind the Scenes: Get an insider's view of the inner workings of the internship program as seen from the perspective of coaches.

📈 Program Improvements: Discover the recent improvements made to the mob internship program, ensuring an even better experience for future interns.

Don't miss this captivating episode filled with firsthand stories, lessons learned, and valuable insights from Eduardo Lopez and Jeric Baga's remarkable journey as mob programming interns. Subscribe now to the Mob Mentality Show and embark on an exciting exploration of the world of software development internships!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/Rf2thKoUbpo

Turning the Tables: A Special Episode with Dustin Interviewing Chris and Austin Aug 27, 2023

Experience a unique twist in this episode of the Mob Mentality Show! Instead of Chris and Austin interviewing a special guest, the very special guest Dustin Thostenson takes up the mantle of hosting and interviews Chris and Austin.
Dustin leads a discussion that delves into the unique journey of the Mob Mentality Show. Explore the evolution of the podcast through its inception, guiding principles, and the impactful connections to the world of software development.
Episode Highlights:
🎙️ Journey back to the origins with the inception story of the Mob Mentality Show.
🏆 Uncover the bedrock principles that propel the podcast and the synergy with software development.
🚀 Gain insights into the inspirations and hurdles that marked the monumental release of the first episode.
🔍 Reflect alongside Chris and Austin on the lessons learned after 205+ episodes.
🔑 Dive into Chris and Austin's go-to product development principles and practices
🤝 Navigate the art of constructive discourse as we uncover the strategies for handling disagreements.
🌟 Explore aspirations for future Mob Mentality Show guests
💡 Look ahead at exciting ideas for upcoming Mob Mentality Show episodes
Join us for an engaging episode where the creators become the subjects. This special episode unveils the essence of the Mob Mentality Show and its deep connection to the world of software development. Tune in now and embark on this journey with Dustin, Chris, and Austin.
Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/kQKxn4jhsi0

The Inverse Conway Maneuver: Balancing Communication for Lean Flow Aug 20, 2023

Join us as we seek to unlock the secrets of optimizing communication for lean flow in this illuminating episode of the Mob Mentality Show: "The Inverse Conway Maneuver." Come along with us as we navigate the intricate landscape of software development dynamics, exploring the deep connection between effective communication and software architecture.

Episode Highlights:
🔑 Gain an understanding of Conway's Law, a cornerstone of software development dynamics.
🏢 Delve into the intriguing interplay between organizational structure, communication effectiveness, and software boundary design.
🌐 Explore the Bonker's World's org charts for tech giants like Amazon, Google, Facebook, Microsoft, Apple, and Oracle.
💡 Discover the hidden implications of Conway's Law on mob programming and collaborative software development.
🚀 Unveil the power of building significant software achievements through the synergy of small, autonomous, agile teams.
⚙️ Introducing the Inverse Conway Maneuver: A strategic approach to balancing communication for lean flow.
📈 Dive into the thought-provoking debate: When does increasing or decreasing communication enhance lean flow?
⏰ Address the pain points of stand-up meetings and uncover effective strategies for streamlining them.
👥 Navigate the challenges posed by expansive teams and explore the dynamics of full-stack teams versus specialized ones.
🔁 Responses to Conway's Law: The crucial choice between ignoring, accepting, or employing the Inverse Conway Maneuver.

Join us in this episode as we unravel the intricate threads of communication, collaboration, and organizational dynamics in the realm of software development. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of the Inverse Conway Maneuver and its potential to revolutionize your approach to lean flow. Watch now to embark on this journey with us!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/kELmcC-vOgs

Top Gun Leadership Styles: Lessons from Maverick, Iceman, and Warlock Aug 13, 2023

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Mob Mentality Show! In this installment, we jump into the enthralling world of leadership as inspired by the iconic movie "Top Gun: Maverick." Get ready to soar as we explore the distinct leadership styles of Maverick, Iceman, and Warlock, and reveal how these styles can be harnessed to elevate your team dynamics, product development, and coding endeavors.

Join us as we dissect the multifaceted leadership approaches showcased in the film, and unlock the secrets to their applicability in the fast-paced realms of software development, mobbing, and code collaboration. From conflict resolution to prioritization, we'll unveil the pearls of wisdom you can integrate into your own professional toolkit.

First, we delve into Iceman's leadership ethos, a journey marked by the support and guidance he offers from high up in the org. Discover how "stacking the deck" can strategically shape your team's path to triumph, and learn the art of standing up for your team's principles even when faced with daunting pressures.

Then, we shift our focus to Warlock's method, exploring his penchant for leading through classroom training and deliberate practice. Tune in to understand the power of teaching from the back of the room, and gain insights into leading with impactful feedback that spans before, during, and after work sessions.

Last but not least, we unravel Maverick's captivating leadership style, defined by his immersive presence within his team's trenches. Witness the magic of guiding from the frontline, seamlessly blending work and coaching. Learn how to exemplify excellence through demonstrations of quality code practices and superior teaming virtues. Plus, discover the transformative potential of proving what's achievable by rolling up your sleeves and accomplishing goals alongside your team, while distinguishing the difference between learning theft and the strategic "I do, we do, you do" approach.

Tune in to this riveting episode of Mob Mentality and glean insights that transcend cinematic narratives. Uncover leadership approaches that could revolutionize your team's dynamics, and gain a fresh perspective on how to harness the remarkable qualities of Maverick, Iceman, and Warlock in your leadership journey. Don't miss out—hit that play button now and let's embark on this exhilarating leadership expedition together!
Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/nmq7iNdHNsM

Accidentally FaST: Dynamic Reteaming and Self-Selection with Paige Watson Aug 06, 2023

Dive into the realm of dynamic reteaming and self-selection with the insightful Paige Watson in this episode of the Mob Mentality Show. Join us as we explore the exciting evolutions of becoming accidentally FaST and discover how to harness its power for enhanced team collaboration and innovation.

Episode Highlights:
🚀 Explore a quick intro to FaST (Fluid Scaling Technology) and its transformative impact.
🌟 Gain insights from Paige's personal experiences with FaST.
🌀 Uncover the gradual transition to FAST methodology through a series of small, impactful decisions.
🔬 Delve into the advantages of discovering together through experimentation over traditional top-down directives.
🏘️ Discover how FaST enhances team ownership and fosters a sense of collective responsibility.
⏱️ Is FaST truly faster?
💡 Choose work based on passion and expertise, aligning with the core principles of FaST.
🤝 Unleash the potential of FaST mobs, revolutionizing collaborative productivity.
🏢 Explore the leadership and system-level needs for successful FaST experimentation.
📊 Examine metrics for evaluating the effectiveness of FaST teams, focusing on both individual and collective success.
📈 Measuring individuals vs. measuring teams: How FaST redefines performance evaluation.
🌐 Is FaST universally for all?
🔥 Navigate healthy conflict within teams.
📜 Dive into Agile Manifesto principles "self-organizing teams" and "motivated individuals" in the context of FaST.
👥 Should the deck be stacked for healthy team composition?
🔍 Experiment with the dynamic reteaming and self-selection.
❓ Address the question: Can self-selected teams ever lead to ineffective outcomes within the FaST framework?
📛 Tackle the challenge: What happens when self-selection leads to tasks nobody wants to undertake?
🛠 Explore the viability of a self-selected FaST team without prior XP skills and its potential for success.
🤹‍♀️ Dive into the potential repercussions of excessive team switching within a FaST team and the loss of context.
🤼 Reflect on the significance of interpersonal and facilitation skills in a self-selected FaST team.
🛡️ Uncover the mechanisms of team self-regulation within the FaST framework and its implications.

Embark on this enlightening journey of Accidentally FaST, dynamic reteaming and self-selection. Tune in now and gain valuable insights from Paige Watson on harnessing the power of FaST for team agility!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/9mJzLofKMKo

Leadership Wayfinding: The Organic Art of Pathmaking in the Unknown with Kevin Callahan Jul 30, 2023

In this exciting episode of Mob Mentality, we are joined by the excellent Kevin Callahan, a master in Leadership Wayfinding. Join us as we explore the organic art of pathmaking in uncharted territories, and discover how to lead with confidence and adaptability in the face of unpredictability.

Episode Highlights:
🧭 Learn the art of guiding your team through unfamiliar landscapes with skill and finesse.
🔍 Uncover the fascinating history and metaphor behind the term "Wayfinding" and its relevance in leadership.
📈 Why Wayfinding vs. Taylorist Style Big Upfront Plans: Delve into the contrast between and how the former thrives in complexity.
🌌 Explore the interplay between complexity theory and the challenge of predictability in leadership.
🔧 Equip yourself with strategies to navigate and adapt to unexpected changes with confidence.
✅ Discover the power of checklists as tools for managing uncertainty and ambiguity in leadership.
⚙️ Learn from real-world examples when managing changes that were too big and their consequences.
📋 Utilize Kanban visualization and batch size experimentation for enhanced efficiency.
💡 When Enterprise Coaching Goes Well and Goes Wrong
🔄 Learn how to embrace and recover from failed experiments, fostering a culture of growth and learning.
🤝 Understand the importance of humility and radical candor in building strong leadership and consultant connections.
🏢 Team vs. Enterprise Level Complexity
🛣️ Master the art of making a rapid series of small decisions to maintain safety and stability.
🎯 Enterprise Kanban and Visualization
🔎 Leverage the Cynefin framework for informed decision-making in complex environments.
🗣️ Enhance your coaching skills with effective probing, sensing, and responsive techniques.
📏 Gain insights from queuing theory for optimizing workflow and productivity.
🏭 Unravel the applicability of successful team-level practices at the enterprise level.
🧪 Learn how to align with natural laws governing industries and systems for sustainable success.
💼 Define and recognize value within the broader context of enterprise operations.
⌛ Identify and minimize organizational wastes for streamlined efficiency.
🤝 Examine enterprise collaboration practices between departments, groups, and workflows.
🎼 Enterprise Ensembles?
🏢 Embrace holistic perspectives by bringing the entire system together for meaningful dialogue and decision-making.

Join us for this insightful episode filled with strategies and practical wisdom on Leadership Wayfinding in an ever-changing world. Watch now and embark on your journey towards becoming a more agile and adaptable leader with Kevin Callahan as your guide.

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/qhbmDFpZ9Bk

Crafting Agility: How to Assemble a Lightweight XP Team with Jim Speaker Jul 23, 2023

Are you eager to assemble a lean and effective XP team? In this action-packed episode of Mob Mentality, we sit down with Jim Speaker to unravel the secrets of crafting agility within your organization. Join us as we delve into the art of creating a small XP team that's agile, proficient, and ready to craft code.

Episode Highlights:
📝 Learn about job descriptions crafted to align with the agile XP principles and practices.
🚀 Discover strategies to build a nimble and dynamic XP team, capable of navigating any challenge.
📚 Gain valuable insights into the journey from crafting job descriptions to successfully hiring the right candidates.
🤝 Unlock the potential of pair and mob programming during interviews to bring out the best in candidates.
🎓 Create an environment where both candidates and interviewers can learn from each other.
🛠️ Explore Jim's passion for craftsmanship, XP principles, and the art of dealing with legacy code.
🧩 Unravel the dilemma of choosing between specific tech stacks and XP principles when hiring.
🔥 Learn from Jim's experiences of dealing with challenges when hiring senior developers.
🗣️ Decode the art of discerning authentic candidates from those who merely play buzzword games.
🌟 Explore the advantages of hiring entry-level developers with a thirst for learning and growth.
🧠 Embrace the essence of tacit expert knowledge and its impact on craftsmanship.
🤼 Discover Jim's personal journey of overcoming pairing challenges and reaching new heights.
🔄 Understand the journey of experimentation from Scrum to Kanban to No Estimates, and the insights gained along the way.
⛓️ Grasp the concept of flow in an XP team using the conveyor belt analogy.
🎣 A shoutout to Jim's Hatchpedia App built on the Uno Platform.

Tune in to this extraordinary episode filled with practical insights and actionable tips on building a lightweight XP team that thrives in a dynamic, ever-changing environment. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from the passionate XP enthusiast, Jim Speaker. Subscribe now and embark on your journey towards crafting true agility within your team!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/NColnIZjqSs

From Illusions to Competence: Insights from Neuroscience on Learning Alone and Together with Barbara Oakley Jul 16, 2023

Welcome to a fascinating episode of Mob Mentality, where we jump into the world of learning, cognition, and neuroscience with the brilliant Barbara Oakley. Join us as we explore the secrets behind learning how to learn, which is essential in product development, tech, agile, engineering, and beyond.

In this mind-expanding conversation, Barbara Oakley will share valuable insights from her expertise in cognitive psychology and neuroscience. Discover the science of learning as we unravel the illusions of competence that hinder cognitive growth. Learn how dopamine influences our motivation to learn and the role of retrieval in diagnosing intellectual development.

For all the tech enthusiasts out there, we'll explore the significance of code katas, computer programming, and practice enrichment in becoming a master of your craft. Understand the importance of mastering habits, learning facts, and utilizing cognitive psychology to enhance your learning process.

But that's not all – we'll delve into the world of group learning and mob skill development, where neuroscience plays a pivotal role in optimizing team performance. Uncover the power of interleaving techniques and how they contribute to accelerated learning.

Ever wondered about the impact of brain fatigue on learning and working? We've got you covered. With the lens of neuroscience, discover how efficiency is lost via task switching and learn about the fascinating concept of "supertaskers" in comparison to the rest of us.

Join us as we explore various methods of acquiring knowledge, including speaking, hearing, and typing, and uncover the science behind spaced repetition and Pomodoro.

Not forgetting the significance of sleep in the consolidation of knowledge and the refactoring of grey matter. We'll also discuss the responsible use of AI tools without negatively affecting human learning and problem-solving abilities.

Intrigued by why IQ may decline over time? Tune in to find out the reasons behind this phenomenon and how person formation during memorization and learning plays a significant role.

Are you ready to explore the "Map Habit" and its impact on knowledge retention? We'll also touch upon the surprising benefits of action video games on the elderly and their brains.

Prepare yourself for a knowledge-packed episode that will transform your understanding of learning, cognition, and the human brain. Join us for an unforgettable discussion with Barbara Oakley on Mob Mentality!

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to support our channel and stay updated on more thought-provoking content.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/0kLX80LjaPQ

The Improvement Paradox: Why Don’t We Improve and How to Overcome It with Eddie Bush Jul 09, 2023

Welcome to the latest Mob Mentality Show episode, where we dive deep into the world of improvement and overcoming obstacles. In this episode we are joined by special guest Eddie Bush to explore "The Improvement Paradox: Why Don't We Improve and How to Overcome It."

Join us as we uncover the reasons behind our struggles with improvement, including the delays between cause and effect, the psychology of quality flip flops, and the fear of change. We'll also discuss the false shortcuts to improvement and the chain of pressure cookers that hinder progress.

Delve into the concept of Lean Flow Thinking and the importance of focusing on the whole system rather than what is easy to measure. We'll also explore the diametric opposition between leadership goals and improvement, as well as the empathy required for leadership transformation.

Discover the joy of an XP (Extreme Programming) shop and the apparently necessary non-XP experiences to become an XP person. We'll also touch upon the foundation of solid product quality and the correlation between speed, quality, and customer retention.

Uncover the benefits of measuring improvement via DORA metrics and unlocking product experimentation. Learn about the prerequisites for transformation and the vital role of coaching in improvement, including the player/coach dynamic and the economy of trust.

Explore the challenges of coaching impostor syndrome and setting improvement work-in-progress limits. We'll also tackle the importance of buy-in at the top for successful change and the impact of Westrum culture on improvement efforts.

Join us as we discuss the necessity of creating space for improvement, the relationship between safety and improvement, and the role of delivery in enabling improvement. We'll even touch upon Code Craft Saturdays and Sundays, highlighting the significance of continuous learning and practice.

Tune in to this enlightening episode filled with valuable insights and strategies to overcome the improvement paradox. Don't miss out on the opportunity to boost your own improvement journey!
Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/oP-v_FwNCFg

The Magic of FizzBuzz: Why It Reigns as the King of Code Katas with Steve Kuo Jul 02, 2023

Join Chris and Austin in this episode of The Mob Mentality show as they explore the captivating world of code katas with special guest Steve Kuo. Uncover the secret behind the reigning king of them all: FizzBuzz. Delve into a conversation about deliberate practice, motivation, grit, and feedback. Discover the art of becoming a master in any field and unravel the immense value of repetition and focus.
Explore the concept of how much repetition is necessary for mastery and whether it can have a negative impact on team motivation. Brace yourself for tales of katas gone wrong and the common misunderstandings surrounding code katas.

Gain insight into the key mindset required for successful katas and learn the importance of starting with the question, "What am I going to practice today?" Dive into the world of pair, mob, and collaborative katas, and understand their significance in honing your skills.

But why is FizzBuzz hailed as the best code kata around? Unearth its remarkable versatility as a tool not only for learning programming languages but also for grasping design patterns and daily warmups. Discover how FizzBuzz can even teach you the art of ensemble and serve as a psychological safety tool.

Explore the connection between grit and craftsmanship, and contemplate the question: "Are you what you do when no one is watching?" Uncover the intriguing phenomenon of semantic diffusion within the world of craftsmanship and how it influences our perception of skill.

Lastly, Steve ends with a teaser on the six-minute interview. Tune in to this episode and immerse yourself in the magic of FizzBuzz and the transformative power of deliberate practice.
Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/tCXwUJTvo6I

Mob Programming with AI on Test Automation with Parker Barrett and Aaron Griffith Jun 25, 2023

In this exciting episode with Parker Barrett and Aaron Griffith, we dive into the world of Mob Programming with AI on Test Automation. After a quick intro on Mob Programming, we explore the benefits of testing with both human friends and robot friends. We'll share our fascinating origin story of Mobbing with a Robot and explore how AI can drive test development in an ensemble. Discover how testing with robots can help us uncover ZOMBIES and learn about the limitations and warnings of this approach. Watch an AI Mobbing Demo where ChatGPT generates a Flutter app with unit tests, and witness the power of AI-generated test ZOMBIES using Copilot. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the intersection of AI, Mob Programming, and Test Automation!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/EGySAVY2atE

Joy of Agility with Joshua Kerievsky Jun 18, 2023

Welcome to a transformative episode featuring the remarkable Joshua Kerievsky, where we unlock the secrets to finding joy in agility. Join us as we embark on a journey through life, business, and tech, discovering the Wooden Way to balance, resilience, and rapid adaptation.

Prepare to hear about the power of combining short stories and principles as Joshua shares insights on selling the invisible. Explore the art of being poised to adapt in the face of unexpected events, as illustrated by a Richard Branson story.

Say goodbye to heroics as we dive into the world of agility and ensembles, witnessing the incredible learning and interpersonal wins that arise from embracing collaboration and diversity of opinion. Discover the importance of taking responsibility for your own learning, accompanied by an intriguing "It Was All Greek to Me" story.

Uncover the perils of learned helplessness and the liberating potential of rapid experimentation. But the journey doesn't end there. Join us as we explore the wisdom of Benjamin Franklin, feedback, and the art of naming, all while reflecting on the timeless significance of great books, ensembles, classical education, and "Classic Agile."

Don't miss this episode where passion, agility, and wisdom collide.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/A-tGM6BQilc

The 4th Habit of a Highly Effective Mobber: Think Win-Win (7 Habits) Jun 11, 2023

Join us as we explore unlocking true collaboration with the win-win mindset in the fourth habit of a highly effective mobber. We share experiences on the pitfalls of win-lose and lose-win scenarios within a mob and uncover the spirit of abundance versus scarcity mentality. After walking through the principles of "win-win or no deal" and the benefits of high consideration and high courage within a mob, we cover the challenges of low courage or low consideration. In response we share strategies for coaching and helping ensembles overcome these hurdles. Lastly, come discover the nuances of win-win internally within a mob vs. inter-team collaboration.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/_1aFo2Ti42I

Supercharge Your Internship Program with Mob Programming: From Interview to Full-Time Hire Jun 04, 2023

Join us as we explore the transformative benefits of mob programming in a software dev internship program, taking you on a journey from interviews to potential full-time hires.

Discover how we interview 10-20 intern candidates at once using mob programming, revolutionizing the way we assess their skills and potential. Explore the pros and cons of interns joining existing mobs versus having an independent intern-only mob, and learn the key steps to prepare for the intern mob experience.

We deep-dive into the essential aspects of intern mob onboarding, project selection, and the crucial roles of intern mob coaches. We share how we witnessed the incredible growth as interns present their end-of-project demonstrations and gain valuable "agile" training at the culmination of their internship. But the journey doesn't end there – we delve into the exciting possibilities that follow the internship.

Don't miss this episode that combines the power of mob programming, internships, and agile practices.
Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/5B7xaAEV3GI

Unleashing the Power of Living Documentation and FOSS with Steven Baker May 28, 2023

Get ready to explore the dynamic world of living documentation and open source software in this episode with Steven Baker. Join us as we uncover the benefits and challenges of executable documentation and how it helps to keep your team's knowledge in sync. Discover the origins of the "describe/it" pattern and RSpec, and learn how to infuse domain into your tests for enhanced understanding.

Next we turn our attention to the implications of GPL and "Copy Left" licenses, and gain valuable tips on understanding your responsibilities within the FOSS licensing landscape. We also touch on the fascinating intersection of AI and open source software, avoiding open source developer burnout, and seeking help within the FOSS community. But that's not all – are you curious about remote work from remote places? We briefly discuss the joys of remote work. Don't miss out on this eye-opening conversation filled with practical advice, experiences, and valuable insights.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/2UPXM8B3BnQ

Crossing the TDD Chasm and Ensemble Traps with Khaled Souf May 21, 2023

Have you ever wondered why some teams struggle to adopt Test-Driven Development (TDD) while others excel at it? Join us in this thought-provoking episode as we delve into the challenges of crossing the TDD chasm and explore testing strategies with the insightful Khaled Souf.

Are you tired of "freestyling" with no tests? Do you find TDD too hard? We address these questions and more as we discuss the human side of trying to adopt TDD and respond to resistance along the way. Discover the power of supportive guidance and learn how to create an environment where teams can thrive and contribute.

But that's not all – we also dive into the world of ensemble programming and the traps that teams often encounter. From the "No Safe Space Trap" to the "Big Steps Trap," we uncover the obstacles that can hinder progress. Find out how to establish lean flow and minimize waste within an ensemble, and explore the balance between strict equality of navigation and minimum viable silence.

We also explore the synergy of legacy code and Domain-Driven Design (DDD), showcasing how DDD can be applied while fixing bugs.

Don't miss this engaging conversation packed with insights, practical advice, and real-world examples. Subscribe now to our podcast and YouTube channel to be notified when episodes are released.
Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/XFHzZMlckzU

The 3rd Habit of a Highly Effective Mobber: First Things First (7 Habits) May 14, 2023

Join us for the latest episode of Mob Mentality, where we dive deep into "The 3rd Habit of a Highly Effective Mobber: First Things First (7 Habits)." Our conversation explores the importance of scheduling your priorities instead of prioritizing what's on your schedule. We discuss the Eisenhower Matrix and how it can be used in mob programming, and we also examine the urgent and important trap. Additionally, we explore how to prevent stress, burnout, and constant fire fighting, as well as how to build deep and meaningful relationships. Throughout the episode, we provide practical tips for improving productivity and preventing crises and fires. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/-9Kl5L9anOg

The 2nd Habit of a Highly Effective Mobber: Begin with the End in Mind (7 Habits) May 07, 2023

What is your team's center? What is the north star?
What side-effects do you observe when they are off-center?
What outcomes do you witness when the team's center is on point?

Join us for the latest episode of Mob Mentality where we delve into "Begin with the End in Mind," which is the 2nd Habit of a Highly Effective Mobber (7 Habits). Our discussion includes topics such as finding your team's north star, being people-centered vs. principle-centered, and how to help a mob find their center through storytelling and coaching.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/Tah6_0F4jbE

Mobbing on the Open Source Mob RPG with Gregor Riegler Apr 30, 2023

What is it like to continuously collaborate on a web app that helps people learn to continuously collaborate?
How does this free new web app automate, streamline, and add more fun to the Mob Programming RPG?
What remote tech stacks and onboarding practices keep public ensemble sessions flowing, welcoming, and enjoyable?

In this episode of the Mob Mentality Show, we talk with Gregor Riegler about "Mobbing on the Open Source Mob RPG" and demonstrate the new Mob Programming RPG Web App. We start by discussing the origin story of the app and the weekly public mob session to work on it. We also cover examples of fun, surprising, and innovative remote mob sessions, as well as a walkthrough of the app page by page. We then dive into the tech stack, tools, and collaboration methodology used in the app's development.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/V7wmLLrsIRA

Certifiably Extreme with Paul Moore Apr 23, 2023

The Mob Mentality Show is back with another informative episode titled "Certifiably Extreme with Paul Moore." In this episode, Chris Lucian and Austin Chadwick sit down with Paul Moore to talk about certifications and Mob Programming in the Certified Scrum Developer Course. They cover a range of topics, including the potential benefits and drawbacks of certifications, mob makeup in the CSD course, story splitting value and techniques, and the hole in the Scrum framework. Join the conversation as they explore the world of agile development and learn how to become "Certifiably Extreme." Don't miss out on this insightful episode! Subscribe to the Mob Mentality Show and stay tuned for more.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/96llOG03z08

Copilot: Mobbing with a Robot Apr 16, 2023

Get ready for a stimulating new episode of the Mob Mentality Show! In "Copilot: Mobbing with a Robot," we delve into the exciting world of extreme programming with Copilot.

How does Copilot stack up against ChatGPT in the mob?
Is Copilot a verbose extrovert mob navigator while ChatGPT is a reserved introvert?
What happens when you teach Copilot humor and memes?
And how can we "jailbreak" AI for good versus evil?

Join us as we explore all this and more, including using AI in interviews, setting context for Copilot with comments, and letting robots and humans each do what they do best. Don't miss out on this fascinating discussion!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/ChfZ9KW8qKc

ChatGPT: Mobbing with a Robot Apr 09, 2023

What is it like to onboard a new robot to your team?
How well does the generative AI navigate code on day one in an ensemble?
What are effective ways the mob can interact well with ChatGPT? What ways are not so effective?

Join us as we share our experiences with ChatGPT and Mobbing with a Robot. We first tell the story of ChatGPT joining a mob team for a month to work on a greenfield mobile app. Next we explore the times when the robot helped to produce great code with the ensemble vs. more problematic code. We then dive into the legal implications of having generative AI in the team. Lastly, we talk about setting the context for ChatGPT to be an extreme programmer, how this changes the researcher role in the mob, and how to capitalize on a robot's sense of humor while teaming.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/EpfYAsLl6c8

Code Whispering with Brett Schuchert Apr 02, 2023

How do you listen to code?
What elicits the most accurate and helpful information from the software?
After you feel you understand the code, what is the most effective way to tame and change it?

Join us as we explore The Art of Code Whispering with Brett Schuchert. We kick it off by talking about how "Not Alone-ing" helps with code whispering. Then we discuss executing code to listen to it , TDD, and truly understand code before changing it. Lastly, we get Brett's take on lean product development flow and things he looks for when joining a team.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/liV5N7CUzS8

Predictability and Flow with Daniel Vacanti Mar 26, 2023

What is predicting software development like?
For example, is it more like forecasting a hurricane? Or, more like forecasting the repeat manufacturing of a physical widget?
What is the appropriate level of certainty? What effect should that have on our product thinking and practices?

Join us as we explore predictability and flow with Daniel Vacanti. We not only discuss forecasting hurricanes vs. forecasting product development, but we also dive into thinking in bets like a poker player, continuous forecasting, and bankroll management. We talk through the marketability of rational uncertainty vs. overconfidence. We round it out with planning, kanban, flow, and foundational flow metrics like work item aging.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/dy2KQtlDaQ4

Managing Mob Teams with Vitaly Sharovatov Mar 19, 2023

Do you have any experience managing individuals on a team? How did it go?
Alternatively, have you ever resisted the urge to manage and incentive individuals and instead focused on the system, mob/ensemble, or team? What would that be like?
What are the pros and cons of either approach?

Join us as we have a fantastic time discussing with Vitaly Sharovatov where he passionately shares about managing mob teams. First, we dive into The Candle Problem. Second, that leads us into conversationally exploring individual incentives, motivation, systems thinking, and managing mobs. Third, after connecting that to solo vs. ensemble hiring, we jump to mob onboarding, knowledge management, and knowledge systems. Lastly, Vitaly enthusiastically shares about the importance of ethics to everyday tasks in development, engineering, and management.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/fVfx2_yfzxQ

The 1st Habit of a Highly Effective Mobber: Response-ability (7 Habits) Mar 12, 2023

Ever heard someone say "there's nothing we can do" in a team or mob? Or, how about "that's just the way it is"?
What effect did it have on the team?
What was your response?

Join Chris and Austin as they discuss The 1st Habit of a Highly Effective Mobber: "Response-ability." They start with setting the stage regarding this topic's inspiration from the books Turn The Ship Around and The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Then they talk about what "response-ability" means and its significance especially in an ensemble programming context. After they clarify the distinction between proactive vs. reactive, they dive into the impact of focusing on your circle of concern vs. focusing on your circle of influence. Lastly, they connect this habit to coaching, retrospectives, learning time, kaizen, and systems thinking.

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/IFvjTQTLPak

The Dunning-Kruger Effect Mar 05, 2023

What is the relation between confidence vs. competence?
What does that relation have to do with mob programming?

Join Chris and Austin as they discuss The Dunning-Kruger Effect. They talk about what they have discovered about The Dunning-Kruger Effect and the many different versions of the phases in the model (e.g., "Child's Hill" => "Insecure Canyon" => "Grown-Up Mountain" vs. "Ignorant" => "Cultured" => "Expert"). Then they discuss the relationship between the Dunning-Kruger Effect and mob programming, learning, experimentation, humility, and refactoring.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/kqHgUKMdms8

Why Are Things Not Getting Done? with Andy Kwong, Rei Pamintuan, and Aaron Griffith Feb 26, 2023

Why do things not get done in tech?
What gets in the way?
What causes waiting?
What causes re-work?

Join Andy Kwong, Rei Pamintuan, Aaron Griffith, and Austin Chadwick as they not only share horror stories of things not getting done, but they also share joyous stories of things actually getting done. They discuss the wastes that cause all the madness with flow. Lastly, they explain and demonstrate how mob programming has eliminated these wastes in their context.

FYI: The advertised lean coffee portion of this tech talk is not in this episode since there is a pending approval to share it publicly on The Mob Mentality Show.

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/mLHf9XcuCwU

Agile Satori, Meatloaf Industrialism, and Ensemble Training with Jon Fazzaro Feb 19, 2023

Ever witnessed someone experience sudden agile enlightenment? What was it like? Is there a method to the magic that can be replicated?
Ever seen a new idea face resistance against "the way we have always done it"? How did you handle it?

Join Chris and Austin as they discuss "Agile Satori, Meatloaf Industrialism, and Ensemble Training" with Jon Fazzaro. First, they discuss flipping the classroom, "Nerd Lunch," and ensemble training in light of "the speed of work as the speed of idea sharing." Second, they dive into Meatloaf Industrialism and our unquestioned cultural habits. Lastly, Jon shares about agile satori vs. slow gradual transformation and they discuss the relation between immersion and the paradox of paradigm shifts.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/_MDgfsWZjOU

Adapting the Mob RPG for the Classroom with Paul Gestwicki Feb 12, 2023

Imagine you get to design a college class that teaches mob programming, craftsmanship, and agility.
What would it look like? How would you do it?

Imagine no more and join Chris and Austin as they discuss with professor Paul Gestwicki his agility focused college courses and how he adapted the Mob RPG for the classroom. Paul talks about how he heard about Mob Programming via a Joe Justice video and shares about his first experiments with using Willem Larsen's Mob RPG Game in the college classroom. Come hear what Paul learned from those experiments and what changes he made to the game to tailor it for his students' levels and context. They all discuss scaffolding for learning navigation skills and Paul tells a TDD and clean code game design success story. Come celebrate awesome educators like Paul Gestwicki in this episode of the Mob Mentality Show!

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/nqVUe7ezHhQ

What’s a Second Brain and Why You Should Have One with Vince Carpino and Jason Storey Feb 05, 2023

How do you compile knowledge?
How do you capture ideas, inspirations, insights, and connections?
How do you keep it all organized?
What would it look like to do this for a team or mob?

Join Chris as he explores with Vince Carpino and Jason Storey the intriguing world of second brains. First, Vince defines a second brain and shares about his productivity journey with second brains. Second, they dive into the many different implementations of a second brain ranging from Zettelkasten to Bullet Journaling to Commonplace Books. Throughout they not only talk about benefits of having a second brain but they also share their own personal experiences with them. Lastly, they give some tips for a team or mob who may want to experiment with implementing a collective second brain.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/oN8TXOR8sMk

Onboarding Graduates via Ensemble Bootcamps with Sean Cowan and Andy Graham Jan 29, 2023

After graduating, what was your onboarding experience like for your first job?
What was lacking? What was good?
What would it look like to turn up the good all the way for onboarding?

Join Chris and Austin as they discuss with Sean Cowan and Andy Graham their exciting ensemble bootcamp for onboarding new graduates. First, they discuss the origin story for this internal bootcamp. Second, they not only share what it is like to be a new grad in this program but they also share what it is like to be a mentor to these new grads. Lastly, Sean and Andy talk about many of the goals and principles behind the bootcamp. Come join us to find out how many new grads discover XP and craftsmanship in this onboarding process to later become positive disrupters in their first production team.

Video and show notes: https://youtu.be/WU360h8MnJo

Software Teaming Book with Woody Zuill and Kevin Meadows Jan 22, 2023

Ever been in a software group that was so effective that it truly lived up to the word "team"? If so, what was it like?
What was the differentiator that took it beyond the infamous office posters of so-called "teams" into the realm of actual teaming?

Join Chris and Austin as they celebrate and discuss with Woody Zuill and Kevin Meadows the second edition of the Software Teaming Book that Woody and Kevin just published. Woody and Kevin not only explore the inspiring software teaming concept from Amy Edmondson's Teaming book but also they dive into the genesis of the first and second editions of their Software Teaming book. Woody and Kevin talk about what changes were made in the second edition and why. They share about how they collaborated to write the book and why Kent Beck was asked to write the foreword. Lastly, they riff on different analogies for teaming (e.g., Orchestra, Jazz Band, Improv Comedy Group) and on the unity and diversity they have experienced in mob/ensemble programming.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/ri-35oHWIU8

Mob Station Hardware Jan 15, 2023

While the lean wastes of task switching, defects, handoffs, and relearning are certainty inhibitors of flow for a team, ever seen the waste of waiting on slow hardware muck up the works?
What hardware setups for teams, ensembles, and mobs have you seen help keep things flowing?

Join Chris and Austin as they share experiences with Mob Station Hardware. Chris kicks it off with the end of Moore's Law and the implications for processor architecture. Then they both share on the impact of hardware on test speed (e.g., approval tests) and mob lean flow. After talking about pet vs. cattle hardware, they touch on hardware resilience to failure and mob resiliency to hardware failure.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/rbrKWObgEbM

London vs. Detroit Mob TDD Jan 15, 2023

You may have heard of London style Test Driven Development (TDD).
You also may have heard of Detroit or Chicago style TDD.
However, what do these two styles look like "out in the wild" in real production code? How about on teams collaborating via Ensemble Programming?

Come join Chris and Austin as they share about their mob programming experiences of London TDD and Detroit/Chicago TDD. They not only talk about the pros and cons of each style in practice but they also talk about when they have seen each style done well and each style done poorly. Then they get practical about when to "shift gears" to experiment with a different style to fit the situation of the code and the team/mob.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/n3thEwckXIs

Fast Feedback and Fun in iOS Development with Jon Reid Jan 01, 2023

When planning iOS work and writing iOS code, how fast are your feedback loops?
How much fun are you having in your work?
Are the two things related?

Join Chris and Austin as they discuss with Jon Reid how fast feedback and fun in iOS development was greatly amplified for him. They first dive into discovery trees for visualizing work. Then after some "hot takes" on the state of architecture and design in iOS development, they jump into the impact of technical practices and Extreme Programming (XP) in that iOS world. Lastly, Jon shares on the joys of finally being on a full XP team.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/ndxjPNDWUjs

Optimizing for Personal Fulfillment in Mob Programming with Kelly Rankin Dec 11, 2022

What are things conducive to personal fulfillment at work?
Specifically with mob programming, what would it look like to optimize for personal fulfillment?
For example, how do you find joy even in the midst of disagreement?

Join Chris and Austin as they discuss with Kelly Rankin "Optimizing for Personal Fulfillment in Mob Programming." Starting with autonomy and fulfillment, they share what that looks like in an ensemble including things that make it harder and things that make it easier. Then they jump into kick starting and maintaining continuous learning. Lastly, they focus on keeping a holistic perspective in the work and the impact of full-stack development, which ultimately goes full circle and ties back into continuous learning and personal fulfillment.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/cLY6mCjz1UM

Joining a Mob Not Doing XP Dec 04, 2022

Extreme Programming and Mob Programming go together like peanut butter and jelly. However, have you ever joined an ensemble that was not doing extreme programming?
How did you handle it?
What reactions were helpful? What reactions were not so helpful?

Join Chris and Austin as they discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly for tactics in regards to joining a mob not doing XP. They share experiences on transparency with non-utopia ensembles including emotional shock and recovery in the midst of the coaching chaos. Then with a "center, enter, turn" mindset, they talk about specific things that have been helpful such as "getting therapy," limiting coaching WIP, "long game" mindset, encouragement, and emphasizing without patronizing.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/gDdxTl1KFlQ

Demo of the Mob Programming RPG (Part 2) with Lisa Crispin, Joe Justice, and Willem Larsen Nov 27, 2022

After having a good time mob programming with introductory roles like driver/navigator, what are some examples of "turning up the good" even more?
What are unique ways to help people in the ensemble grow?
What mobbing tactics can you employ to improve the product in very particular ways?

Picking up from where they left off last time, come join Chris and Austin having another fantastic time playing the Mob Programming Role Playing Game with Lisa Crispin, Joe Justice, and Willem Larsen. This time, they focus on embodying level 2+ roles like Sponsor, Archivist, Rear Admiral, Nose, Traffic Cop, Automationist, Anthropologist, and Dr. Feel Good. Not only do you get to see how things like "graphic kanban" can be used along side ensemble programming but you also get the feel of some of the many unique ways to contribute in a mob.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/V1ZgaX99UJ4

Demo of the Mob Programming RPG (Part 1) with Lisa Crispin, Joe Justice, and Willem Larsen Nov 20, 2022

Is mob programming a group of people watching one person type? Just a driver and a bunch of watchers?
If not, what are some examples of things to do in the ensemble? What roles amplify learning, contribution, continuous improvement, and flow efficiency for all?
How can people learn in a safe environment how to take on these mob roles?

Come see the Mob Programming Role Playing Game in action with Chris, Austin, Lisa Crispin, Joe Justice, and Willem Larsen as they focus on role levels 1 and 2. After Willem, creator of the RPG game, introduces the game, they have a fantastic time embodying several roles including Driver, Navigator, Mobber, Researcher, and Sponsor. Not only do they seek to help each other take on the different mob roles, but they also seek to do it with kindness, consideration, and respect. We hope this episode inspires you to play the game with some colleagues and friends and "join the annals of the great mobs of history."

P.S. Stay tuned next week for round 2 of the RPG in action for role levels 3+

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/ixV8YG5vwyM

Taking Risks... Safely Nov 13, 2022

Ever been on a team that pulled off a big jump in innovation?
What things made the quantum leap possible?
What helped the team overcome any perceived risk in going for it?

Join Chris and Austin as they share stories and thoughts on "Taking Risks... Safely." First, they talk about following the Scout Rule for 1% gains vs. large improvement leaps. Second, they explore mob psychology in regards to risk and safety nets. Then they discuss making learning and experimentation easy with a limited blast radius including "Yes, and..." techniques vs. a flat "no." Lastly, they cover the impact of leadership, chaos, and "extreme" suggestions.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/gf56ES2ZTUE

The Coaching Paradox Nov 07, 2022

When coaching, when to make it easy? When to let it be hard?
How can these two seemingly diametrically opposed objectives work together?

Come join the conversation with Chris and Austin as they brainstorm to try to figure out the "The Coaching Paradox." First, they share about the benefits of making a great environment where it is easy to do good things (e.g., systems thinking, classical culture shaping, etc.). Second, they talk about the pros of developing the ability to do good things even if they are hard (e.g., grit, classical courage and diligence). Then, they hypothesize on how to solve the paradox and bring the two good goals together as a coach.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/GexsVYQ4tYo

Influencing Organizational Change Oct 30, 2022

Imagine you are put in a leadership position at a new organization. You immediately see many problems and areas for improvement in the system.
What are some of the first things that you do?
What are some things that you resist doing?

Join Chris and Austin as they discuss influencing organizational change from the top/middle vs. the bottom. After Chris talks about avoiding the corporate antibody response, he shares his experiences on applying the "Center, Enter, Turn" principles. Next they discuss "unhelpful forgetting" and finish with how habits apply at the org and system level.

Video and Show Notes: https://youtu.be/gKBOxwhj2iM

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