In this insightful episode of Unlocked, host Madelyn Blair sits down with James Shulgold to explore the continuum of leadership and management, drawing on their combined decades of experience. Together, they dive deep into the practical differences and overlaps between program management and project management, and what it truly means to "lead where you are." With engaging personal stories and actionable advice, James shares how sports, coaching, and even setbacks have shaped his leadership style. Whether you’re an aspiring leader or an established manager, this conversation will leave you with new perspectives and tools to unlock your own resilient leadership.
Overview: In this episode you will:
1. Learn the nuanced differences between leadership and management, and why they are best viewed as a continuum rather than separate silos.
2. Discover how formative childhood experiences, sports, and teamwork influence leadership styles and confidence.
3. Hear real-world strategies for motivating teams, navigating setbacks, and understanding the importance of scope in program vs. project management.
4. Gain actionable advice for young professionals starting their leadership journey—and learn how stepping back can sometimes be the key to moving forward.
Guest introduction: James Shulgold is a seasoned leader and program director with over three decades of experience managing teams from five to over a hundred people across diverse sectors. Beyond his impressive professional credentials, James is a devoted husband, father, and accomplished pickleball instructor, with a lifelong passion for racquet sports and coaching. His unique blend of blue-collar operational know-how and executive experience provides him with a grounded and refreshing approach to management and leadership. On today’s show, James shares memorable lessons from his career and personal life, illustrating how everyday experiences shape extraordinary leaders.
