Max Ahumada, Author at OACO

160: Build a Legacy You Can Be Proud Of with Shawn Dalcour & Keshia Robinson

by Max Ahumada | Mar 18, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, meet an amazing father-daughter duo, Shawn Dalcour and Keshia Robinson.

If you have ever felt stuck, stagnant, uncertain, or afraid to take that next step in your career, you must hear what Shawn and Keshia brought to our conversation today.

Shawn went from the projects of Chicago, growing up in a neighborhood where the life expectancy was only 30 years old… to arguably the most successful project leader I’ve had on this podcast!

He earned an engineering degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and built his engineering career on elite teams at places like IBM, Oracle, Adobe, and Verizon, where he is currently responsible for $1.3 billion in revenue as Global Technology Alliance Manager, Partner Business Development & Innovation Leader.

His daughter Keshia has her own amazing journey, currently serving as Director of Operations for the National Society of Black Engineers. She has witnessed first hand the power of her father going from tragedy to triumph, and is giving back to the community of engineering leaders as part of that legacy.

So press play and let’s chat…because nothing was impossible for Shawn, and nothing is impossible for you!

159: Who Else Wants More Energy at Work?

by Max Ahumada | Mar 11, 2024 | Podcast

Are you ready to unlock your full potential by prioritizing health and fitness?

In this episode, I share a surprising revelation from my time at the gym that transformed my perspective on career success. From casual encounters with gym buddies to discovering they were top executives, I realized a common thread: the correlation between physical fitness and professional achievement.

I delve into why a strong body is crucial for a strong mind and how prioritizing health can elevate performance in all areas of life.

Join me as I challenge engineering leaders to become subject matter experts not only in their technical fields but also in sleep, movement, and nutrition. Discover simple yet powerful ways to optimize energy levels and unlock your full potential.

So press play and let’s chat about maximizing performance through holistic well-being.

158: How to Minimize Regret and Maximize Success with Omar Halabieh | Tech Director at Amazon Payment Services

by Max Ahumada | Mar 4, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, meet a global technology executive with over 20 years of experience on some of the most demanding teams and technologies in the world, Omar Halabieh.

If you want to make it Director level and beyond, this episode is essential. Omar is passionate about developing people and building high performing organizations.

Omar is currently Director of Technology at Amazon Payment Services, based in Dubai, UAE. It was a few weeks before Christmas when we recorded this one, and only God knows how many payments were being processed by Amazon.

Prior to this, he led technology teams within Amazon’s Supply Chain Optimization Technologies organization based in Seattle. These engineering teams revolutionized what we consider “normal” in supply chain technology today.

Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his active and inquisitive 4-year old son. You can have that time and balance with your family too.

Omar looked fear in the face many times… and discovered that regret minimization was more important than playing it safe. Discover the frameworks he used to make huge decisions and drive his success without regret.

So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to make courageous decisions that minimize regret and maximize success!

157: Learn to Say More with Less Words | Executive Communication

by Max Ahumada | Feb 26, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, I reflect on a recent coaching session with an engineering leader named David, who struggled to articulate his career challenges concisely.

I share how, despite his impressive background, David’s long-winded communication hindered his progress. From experiences like this, I’ve learned the critical importance of clear and concise communication in career advancement.

I delve into how engineers, like myself, often fall into the trap of verbosity, but mastering concise communication is essential for success. Whether it’s in emails or conversations, brevity saves time and fosters clarity. By adopting this habit, engineers can project authority, autonomy, and decisiveness, crucial qualities for effective leadership.

Join me as I discuss the power of concise communication and its transformative impact on career growth.

So press play and let’s chat about leveling up your communication game!

156: Why Some Engineers Should Definitely Start a Consulting Business with Jay Aigner

by Max Ahumada | Feb 19, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, you’ll get to meet Jay Aigner. He is a consulting evangelist.

You may relate with Jay, who had his first kid at age 19, in college, 1000 miles from home. He graduated, got a job in his dream industry and worked the 9-5 grind for years.

Eventually a new challenge presented itself … get his wife out of working as an overnight long-term pediatric nurse.

What is your challenge? Why is your current life no longer acceptable? Most importantly, what’s the solution?

For Jay, it was consulting.

Fast-forward a few years later, he grew JDAQA, his company, from a one man software testing consultancy based on his 9-5 experience to a 7-figure testing agency powerhouse with 60+ employees. Jay is a father of 5, amateur astrophotographer, student pilot, hockey player, and podcast host as well.

His unique 5 for 5 morning routine is his foundation for crushing results, and we cover that and more in this powerful conversation.

So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to get off the fence and get clear on your consulting business!

155: Get Rid of Sleazy Networking Once and For All

by Max Ahumada | Feb 12, 2024 | Podcast

In this episode, I dive into the misconceptions and pitfalls surrounding networking in the professional world.

Join me as I unpack the flawed mindset behind traditional networking strategies and propose a paradigm shift towards authentic connection and giving without expectation.

Discover why leading with generosity and genuine intent can not only transform your networking experiences but also propel your career forward with fulfillment and purpose.

So press play and let’s chat about redefining networking for success without the sleaze.

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