engineering leadership Archives

210: The 3 Levels of Mentorship and Why Engineers Struggle to Find Mentors

by Max Ahumada | Mar 3, 2025 | Podcast

In this episode, I break down the #1 reason why most engineering leaders struggle to find great mentors—and how to fix it. If you’ve ever felt unsure about who to ask, how to build that relationship, or whether you even need a mentor, you’re not alone. I walk you through a simple, three-level framework that takes you from getting advice to securing a sponsor—someone who will actually go to bat for you when it matters most.

Plus, we take a page from Tony Robbins’ playbook on how he built a world-class network of mentors to fast-track his success. I’ll share practical strategies you can use right now to expand your circle, make the right asks, and unlock career-changing relationships.

If you’re tired of waiting for growth to happen and ready to take control of your future, this episode is for you.

So press play and let’s chat… about the mentors who will change your career.

209: How to Land Your Dream Job Without Blindly Applying Online

by Max Ahumada | Feb 24, 2025 | Podcast

Are you tired of job hunting and networking advice that isn’t even realistic?

“Go have coffee with someone every day for 40 days.”

Sure thing coach, and meanwhile you can do my job for me and come babysit my kids!

In this episode, you will meet Cassandra Thompson, a globally recognized speaker whose work casting contestants for Wheel of Fortune, strategizing on the recruitment team at Riot Games, and coaching ambitious professionals made her into a networking paragon.

She has helped over 100,000 subscribed job-seekers on YouTube, sharing her powerful insights and advice in free video coaching with MILLIONS of views.

Near the end of our chat, Cassandra shares two things you MUST NOT DO when preparing for a career move.

So press play and let’s chat… because your next role is right around the corner!

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208: Do You Make This Common Mistake in Engineering Management?

by Max Ahumada | Feb 17, 2025 | Podcast

In this episode, I share the story of Greg, who found himself trapped in a lose-lose leadership dilemma—step in and fix his team’s mistakes, or delegate and risk failure. Sound familiar?

Greg had been making great progress in his leadership journey, but when pressure hit, he fell back into old habits of doing instead of leading. The result? More hours, more stress, and creeping burnout.

Together, we unpacked the real issue—not just delegation, but the hidden cost of keeping underperformers on the team. I share the most important leadership question that will transform how you assess and develop your team, and we break down the two clear choices every leader must make: coach them up, or coach them out.

If you’ve ever struggled with letting go of work, managing underperformance, or balancing leadership with workload, this one’s for you.

So press play and let’s chat… Are you leading your team, or covering for them?

206: The Best Advice You Can Give Someone Looking for Success

by Max Ahumada | Feb 3, 2025 | Podcast

Do you ever feel like no matter how hard you push, your goals just aren’t happening fast enough?

A few episodes ago, I talked about the worst advice I’ve ever heard, and today, we’re flipping the script. I’ll take you back to a pivotal coaching session where I realized my frustration with “slow progress” was actually self-imposed. I’ll also share two experiences—one at an amusement park and another in my business—that taught me the power of patience, surrender, and presence.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re not moving fast enough toward your goals, this episode is for you. You’ll learn why chasing speed can actually slow you down and how shifting your mindset can make your vision a reality sooner than you think.

So press play and let’s chat…are you stuck in the waiting game or embracing the ride?

205: Mastering Energy Management in Leadership with Mary Guerdoux-Harries | Transformational Coach

by Max Ahumada | Jan 27, 2025 | Podcast

In this episode, we welcome Mary Guerdoux-Harries, a transformational coach and core energy leadership expert.

Her journey from being an engineering leader to discovering her true calling is a lighthouse for your life and career.

Mary shares insights into physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual energies and actionable tips on boosting your energy levels – essential for leadership and personal performance.

Learn practical steps to harness your inner energy, prioritize values, and make conscious choices in life and work.

So press play and let’s chat… about reclaiming focus and enhancing well-being in our “next and more” world!

204: The Ultimate Morning Routine for Managers

by Max Ahumada | Jan 20, 2025 | Podcast

In this episode, I explore the profound wisdom of Zig Ziglar and his philosophy that a great life is built one day at a time. Drawing inspiration from one of the great minds in personal development, I discuss how the quality of our days directly influences the quality of our lives.

I delve into practical strategies to enhance daily life, emphasizing the importance of starting each day with intention and vigor. We’ll examine how establishing a morning routine can set the tone for success in both personal and professional realms.

This episode is packed with actionable insights aimed at helping you create more fulfilling days, leading to a truly great life.

So press play and let’s chat about making every day count!

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