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

The Mob Mentality Show

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- Debate whether Agile is becoming fragile and outdated.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