KatAnu Connect Podcast

Agile teams don't usually plan to return to waterfall ways of working — it happens slowly and subtly. In this episode, Kate Megaw and Ryan Smith unpack the signs that a team is sliding back toward waterfall, why it happens, and most importantly, what leaders and teams can do to course-correct. Learn how to stay true to Agile principles even when organizational pressure, leadership turnover, and old habits start pulling you backward.

In this episode of the Arclight Agile podcast, hosts Kate Megaw and Ryan Smith join special guest Anu Smalley to explore the strategic leadership domain of the Leadership Growth Wheel. They discuss how effective leaders align organizational vision and values with daily operations, implement human-centered change management, and develop consistent decision-making frameworks—all while keeping team engagement at the forefront.

In this candid and experience-rich conversation, Kate and Ryan unpack the most common reasons Agile transformations fail. From lack of purpose and misunderstood roles to cultural resistance and tool obsession, this blog distills their insights into a practical top ten list. Whether you're beginning your Agile journey or mid-transformation, this podcast is a must listen to!

Agility is an organizational mindset that can be applied on various scales, from individual teams to entire systems. In this episode, we explore how to embody the principles of Agile in the context of today's evolving landscape of AI and market shifts. We also discuss how to measure value and success effectively. Agile is not limited to technology teams - it represents the ability to pivot, adapt, and approach challenges with innovation. Unfortunately, the core principles of Agile are sometimes lost or muddied. It is crucial to revisit and emphasize the fundamentals, such as valuing individuals and interactions over processes and tools. Whenever we introduce change, we start by understanding the 'why' behind it. While processes, guidelines, and coaching are important, organizations should empower teams to determine the 'what' and the 'how.' Embracing this approach means letting go of rigidity and control, and allowing creative solutions to flow.

Kate & Ryan talk about good and bad Tech Debt, how it differs from Bugs, and how teams can manage it