Coffee Journeys Show

Hosted by Piotr Zagorowski

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Apr 2025

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About the show

The Coffee Journeys Show is a podcast hosted by Piotr Zagorowski, author of the Coffee Journeys blog. In this show, Piotr will be sharing his journey from being a technical person to a leader, and will be discussing topics such as leadership, technology, and intentional life. Join Piotr as he shares his unique perspective and insights, and offers guidance on how to develop the skills and mindset needed to succeed in today's world. Whether you're an aspiring leader, a technology enthusiast, or simply looking to learn more about the world around you, this podcast is for you.

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51 recent

April 11, 2025Episode 509 min

#050 A Letter to Myself (and Maybe to You Too) - Season Finale

Welcome to episode nr 50 of The Coffee Journeys Show: A Letter to Myself (and Maybe to You Too) - Season Finale In this special season finale of The Coffee Journeys Show , I’m doing something different. Instead of a deep dive into tools, models, or frameworks, I’m taking a moment to pause and reflect—by writing a letter to myself. Think of it as a quiet coffee catch-up, a way to look back at everything this season has taught me about leadership, growth, relationships, and the shifts in mindset that come with experience. This episode is more personal, more relaxed, but still grounded in the idea that great leadership often starts within. I hope this reflection resonates with you too—wherever you are in your own journey. Take a break, grab a coffee, and join me for a thoughtful sendoff before we pause for a little Easter break. Chapters 00:01:05 - Intro 00:02:24 - Letter 00:06:20 - Thank You! Links 🗞️ Newsletter 🎙️ Podcast URL Your host 🧙‍♂️ Piotr Zagorowski @PiotrZagorowski 🔗 All my projects and links Stay tuned 🟣 Apple Podcasts 🟢 Spotify 🔵 Google Podcasts 🟠 Overcast.fm ☕️ RSS 🪄 Magic link Have a great day!

April 4, 2025Episode 4934 min

#049 From Linux Admin to People Engineer: My Professional Journey

Welcome to episode nr 49 of The Coffee Journeys Show: From Linux Admin to People Engineer: My Professional Journey Today’s episode is a little different—what you’re about to hear is a recording from Cisco’s Share IT Solutions Huddle back in 2020. I had the privilege of talking about techniques to help those working from home and the importance of creating habits—something that’s still just as relevant today. The format of these meetings allows to the broad range of topics and you will hear about me accidentally infuriating my brother by installing Linux on his computer to leading distributed teams across continents, because my journey in technology has been anything but conventional. What began as curiosity about simple network pings evolved into a lifelong passion for connection--both digital and human. Through data centers in the UK, acquisitions by tech giants, and the global shift to remote work, I've transformed from a command-line Linux administrator to what I now call a _people engineer._ Along the way, I've had my fair share of pivotal moments, hard-earned lessons, and unexpected detours--including that one time when a colleague dramatically dove across a Nando's table to save me from volcano-level spicy chicken. All of that shaped my approach to leadership and remote work, and today, I'm excited to share some of those insights with you. So grab your coffee, get comfortable, and let's jump into the recording. Chapters 00:02:47 - Journey into Networking 00:04:19 - Transition to Management 00:07:24 - Embracing Remote Work 00:12:32 - The Importance of Routines 00:19:15 - Challenges of Distributed Teams 00:27:37 - Reflections on Remote Work 00:31:46 - Final Thoughts and Takeaways Links 🗞️ Newsletter 🎙️ Podcast URL Your host 🧙‍♂️ Piotr Zagorowski @PiotrZagorowski 🔗 All my projects and links Stay tuned 🟣 Apple Podcasts 🟢 Spotify 🔵 Google Podcasts 🟠 Overcast.fm ☕️ RSS 🪄 Magic link Have a great day!

March 28, 2025Episode 4817 min

#048 Ten Mindset Shifts When You Become a Manager

Welcome to episode nr 48 of The Coffee Journeys Show: Ten Mindset Shifts When You Become a Manager Stepping into a management role for the first time is exciting—but also full of unexpected challenges. What got you here won’t necessarily make you successful in this new role. In this episode, I break down 10 essential mindset shifts every new manager must make to lead effectively. Inspired by Daniel Idaszak’s insightful thread on X, I share my own experiences and hard-learned lessons on: ✅ Why your team’s success is now your success ✅ The balance between being friendly vs. being respected ✅ How to shift from problem-solving to problem-preventing ✅ The art of managing up and positioning your team for success ✅ Why embracing a generalist mindset is key to thriving in leadership If you're stepping into leadership—or want to refine your approach—this episode will give you the perspective shift you need to lead with confidence. 🎧 Grab your coffee, tune in, and let’s navigate leadership together! Chapters 00:01:04 - Leadership Mindset 00:02:46 - Team's Success = Your Success 00:03:51 - Friendly Not Friends 00:05:25 - Respect Over Likability 00:06:36 - Lead By Example 00:07:51 - Anticipate Problems 00:09:34 - Remove Barriers 00:10:19 - Focus On The Big Picture 00:11:42 - Promote Your Team 00:13:03 - Understand Your Role 00:14:00 - Embrace Being Generalist 00:15:34 - Lessons Learned Links 🗞️ Newsletter 🎙️ Podcast URL 🎯 The First 90 Days – Leadership Framework for Success 🎓 My First 90 Days – What I Learned the Hard Way 👉 Tech Lead Toolkit | Daniel Idaszak Your host 🧙‍♂️ Piotr Zagorowski @PiotrZagorowski 🔗 All my projects and links Stay tuned 🟣 Apple Podcasts 🟢 Spotify 🔵 Google Podcasts 🟠 Overcast.fm ☕️ RSS 🪄 Magic link Have a great day!

March 21, 2025Episode 4714 min

#047 My First 90 Days What I Learned the Hard Way

Welcome to episode nr 47 of The Coffee Journeys Show: My First 90 Days What I Learned the Hard Way Stepping into leadership is exciting—but it’s also a reality check . In this episode, I’m sharing the hard lessons I learned in my first 90 days as a leader. From letting go of the “expert” mindset to navigating team dynamics, dealing with leadership loneliness, and redefining what success looks like—this episode is packed with real experiences, honest reflections, and practical advice for anyone transitioning into leadership. Tune in to hear: ✅ What I expected vs. what really happened ✅ The biggest challenges I faced (and how I overcame them) ✅ What I wish I had done differently ✅ Key takeaways for new leaders stepping into their first role And if you’re looking for a structured framework for success, don’t miss my previous episode: The First 90 Days – Leadership Framework for Success . Chapters 00:01:04 - My First 90 Days 00:02:27 - Expectations Vs Reality 00:03:10 - Expert Hat 00:04:43 - Different Rythm 00:06:00 - Different Role Different Skills 00:06:53 - Politics And Bureaucracy 00:07:59 - What Team Is Your Team 00:09:05 - Leadership Loneliness 00:10:01 - How Success Looks Like 00:10:58 - What Would I Do Different 00:12:10 - Conclusions Links 🗞️ Newsletter 🎙️ Podcast URL Your host 🧙‍♂️ Piotr Zagorowski @PiotrZagorowski 🔗 All my projects and links Stay tuned 🟣 Apple Podcasts 🟢 Spotify 🔵 Google Podcasts 🟠 Overcast.fm ☕️ RSS 🪄 Magic link Have a great day!

March 14, 2025Episode 4612 min

#046 The First 90 Days – Leadership Framework for Success

Welcome to episode nr 46 of The Coffee Journeys Show: The First 90 Days – Leadership Framework for Success The transition into leadership is one of the most exciting yet challenging career moves. The habits that made you a great individual contributor won’t necessarily make you a successful leader. So, how do you navigate this shift effectively? In this episode, I break down key strategies to help you thrive in your first 90 days , drawing from both proven leadership frameworks and my own personal experiences transitioning into leadership. ☕ What you’ll learn in this episode: ✔️ Why promoting yourself mentally into your new role is essential ✔️ How to accelerate your learning and avoid common pitfalls ✔️ The STARS model and why every new leadership role isn’t the same ✔️ The importance of securing early wins and building trust ✔️ My personal challenges and lessons learned from stepping into leadership Whether you’re stepping into leadership for the first time or transitioning into a bigger role, this episode will equip you with the mindset and strategies to lead with confidence from day one . 🎧 Grab your coffee, tune in, and let’s make those first 90 days count! Chapters 00:01:04 - The First 90 Days 00:02:39 - Mental Transition 00:04:00 - Accelerate Learning 00:05:32 - Different Strategy For Different Transition 00:07:18 - Secure Early Wins 00:08:44 - Find Ways To Collaborate 00:10:06 - Conclusions Links 🗞️ Newsletter 🎙️ Podcast URL Your host 🧙‍♂️ Piotr Zagorowski @PiotrZagorowski 🔗 All my projects and links Stay tuned 🟣 Apple Podcasts 🟢 Spotify 🔵 Google Podcasts 🟠 Overcast.fm ☕️ RSS 🪄 Magic link Have a great day!

March 7, 2025Episode 4513 min

#045 The Pancake DELEGATE principle - Flipping Delegation Into Empowerment

Welcome to episode nr 45 of The Coffee Journeys Show: The Pancake DELEGATE principle: Flipping Delegation Into Empowerment Can making pancakes really teach you about leadership? 🤔 Absolutely! In this episode, we explore how to delegate effectively and build trust with your team. Learn how to provide guidance, celebrate growth, and create a safe environment for experimentation. Plus, we'll introduce the ' DELEGATE ' framework: D emonstrate, E mpower, L aunch small, E valuate, G uide, A cknowledge, T ransfer, and E xplode with celebration! It's time to stop doing everything yourself and start empowering others. Let's get flipping! Chapters 00:01:04 - Culinary Intro 🥞 00:01:40 - Sometimes You Need to Break Some Eggs 🍳 00:03:57 - Show Them How It’s Done 🙌 00:05:44 - Do It With Them 🤜🤛 00:07:19 - Let Them Do It Themselves & Normalize Mistakes 🌱 00:09:17 - Celebrate the Wins 🎉 00:10:42 - D.E.L.E.G.A.T.E. Links 🗞️ Newsletter 🎙️ Podcast URL Your host 🧙‍♂️ Piotr Zagorowski @PiotrZagorowski 🔗 All my projects and links Stay tuned 🟣 Apple Podcasts 🟢 Spotify 🔵 Google Podcasts 🟠 Overcast.fm ☕️ RSS 🪄 Magic link Have a great day!

February 28, 2025Episode 449 min

#044 Invisible Filters - Unmasking Unconscious Bias in Leadership

Welcome to episode nr 44 of The Coffee Journeys Show: #044 Invisible Filters - Unmasking Unconscious Bias in Leadership Just as coffee filters separate grounds from water, our brains filter information—sometimes leading us astray. Explore the world of unconscious bias in leadership, understand its impact, and learn to recalibrate your mental filters for fairer, more inclusive decision-making. Brew a cup and join us for this enlightening journey! Chapters 00:01:04 - Intro 00:02:32 - What Is Unconscious Bias 00:04:22 - Real Life Impact 00:05:58 - What Can We Do 00:07:30 - Lessons Learned Links 🗞️ Newsletter 🎙️ Podcast URL A short mental exercise that will help you how to think big Elevate Your Leadership Through Journaling The Responsibility Process: How to Overcome Challenges and Take Personal Responsibility Your host 🧙‍♂️ Piotr Zagorowski @PiotrZagorowski 🔗 All my projects and links Stay tuned 🟣 Apple Podcasts 🟢 Spotify 🔵 Google Podcasts 🟠 Overcast.fm ☕️ RSS 🪄 Magic link Have a great day!

February 21, 2025Episode 4311 min

#043 The Energy Audit: How to Beat Burnout and Thrive

Welcome to episode nr 43 of The Coffee Journeys Show: The Energy Audit: How to Beat Burnout and Thrive Feeling the weight of burnout? You're not alone! Following up on the popular episode 028, "Recognizing Burnout Before It's Too Late", we’re now providing a concrete solution. Learn how to reclaim your energy and thrive with our simple 5-step framework for energy management. Discover how to audit your tasks, classify them as energy drainers or gainers, and strategically prioritize your day for optimal performance. We'll explore the "eat the frog" technique, the importance of self-care, and practical tips for creating a sustainable work-life balance. If you're ready to ditch the overwhelm and unlock your full potential, this episode is a must-listen! Chapters 00:01:04 - Burn downs are real 00:02:27 - Task Inventory And Energy Classification 00:03:54 - Prioritise Energy Drainers 00:05:25 - Optimize for Energy Gainers 00:06:46 - Weekly Planning and Additional Strategies 00:08:33 - Conclusions Links 🗞️ Newsletter 🎙️ Podcast URL 🪫 Recognising Burnout Before It’s Too Late Your host 🧙‍♂️ Piotr Zagorowski @PiotrZagorowski 🔗 All my projects and links Stay tuned 🟣 Apple Podcasts 🟢 Spotify 🔵 Google Podcasts 🟠 Overcast.fm ☕️ RSS 🪄 Magic link Have a great day!

February 14, 2025Episode 4216 min

#042 Leadership begins at home - strengthening relationships that matter the most

Welcome to episode nr 42 of The Coffee Journeys Show: Leadership begins at home - strengthening relationships that matter the most Leadership isn’t just about work—it starts at home. In this special Valentine’s Day episode of the show, we take a different look at leadership: how it applies to our relationships, our families, and the people who matter most. We often focus on leading teams, making strategic decisions, and achieving career goals, but the most important leadership role we play is in our personal lives. In this episode, I share 10 simple yet powerful ways to strengthen your relationships —whether it’s with your spouse, partner, family, or close friends. From clear communication to setting shared goals , supporting each other in small ways , and investing in experiences rather than things , we explore how leadership principles can help create deeper, more meaningful connections. So grab your coffee, take a moment to reflect, and join me as we discuss how to lead with intention—not just in the office, but in life. Because true leadership is about helping others grow—and that starts at home. 🎧 Tune in now and start leading where it matters most! Chapters 00:01:04 - Intro 00:02:40 - Communication Is Everything 00:03:39 - Keep Evolving As A Team 00:04:48 - Respect Individuality 00:05:48 - Sky-High Goals 00:07:01 - Small Things That Matter The Most 00:08:34 - Show Affection 00:09:48 - Collect Memories 00:10:55 - Connection Not Perfection 00:12:10 - Extreme Ownership 00:13:29 - Bigger Picture 00:14:50 - Leadership Begins At Home Links 🗞️ Newsletter 🎙️ Podcast URL ☕️ Why coffee should be important in your relationship? 🙏 Uncovering Your Purpose: The Power of Self-Awareness and Close Connections Your host 🧙‍♂️ Piotr Zagorowski @PiotrZagorowski 🔗 All my projects and links Stay tuned 🟣 Apple Podcasts 🟢 Spotify 🔵 Google Podcasts 🟠 Overcast.fm ☕️ RSS 🪄 Magic link Have a great day!

February 7, 2025Episode 4113 min

#041 RACI Model: Clearer Roles, Better Collaboration in Team Projects

Welcome to episode nr 41 of The Coffee Journeys Show: RACI Model: Clearer Roles, Better Collaboration in Team Projects Confusion and inefficiency can derail even the best teams. In this episode we dive into the RACI model - a simple yet powerful framework for defining roles and responsibilities. Whether you're juggling multiple projects, managing cross-functional teams, or navigating blurred boundaries, the RACI model helps create clarity, reduce misunderstandings, and improve collaboration. We break down what RACI stands for (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed) and provide practical examples to show how it works in real-world scenarios. Plus, we explore common pitfalls to avoid and why mastering the distinction between "R" and "A" is critical for effective leadership. Tune in to learn how this leadership tool can transform your team's productivity and help you lead with intention. Key Topics Covered: What the RACI model is and how it works Practical examples for applying it to projects and teams Common mistakes to avoid when using the RACI framework Why clarity in roles is a leadership superpower Grab your coffee and join me for this actionable episode! Chapters 00:01:04 - Intro 00:02:34 - The Basics Of RACI Model 00:03:47 - Breaking Down "R" And "A" 00:05:19 - Practical Applications 00:07:00 - Tips For Implementations 00:08:44 - Pitfalls To Avoid 00:10:36 - RACI As Leadership Tool 00:11:17 - Where To Start Links 🗞️ Newsletter 🎙️ Podcast URL ☕️ The Responsibility Process: How to Overcome Challenges and Take Personal Responsibility 🎯 How to Prioritize: The Six Horizons of Focus from David Allen Your host 🧙‍♂️ Piotr Zagorowski @PiotrZagorowski 🔗 All my projects and links Stay tuned 🟣 Apple Podcasts 🟢 Spotify 🔵 Google Podcasts 🟠 Overcast.fm ☕️ RSS 🪄 Magic link Have a great day!