#1 Project Controls Podcast Globally

Where ProjectLeaders Think Out Loud

Unfiltered conversations with global experts.No scripts. Just insights.

211+
Episodes
10
Seasons
6+
Years
Your Hosts

The Faces for Radio

A South African and an Australian starting a podcast sounds like a bad joke, right? Well, that's exactly how this began...

Dale Foong

Dale Foong

🇿🇦 The South African

Co-Founder & Co-Host

Most people build podcasts to showcase their expertise. Dale built one to steal everyone else's. 🎙️

Starting out in project controls, Dale got lucky—great mentors, solid opportunities, and a front-row seat to how the industry really works. But here's the thing: he knew most people didn't get that same lucky break. So instead of gatekeeping what he learned, he grabbed a microphone and started asking the best in the business to share their secrets for free.

200+ episodes later, Dale's turned casual conversations into a global knowledge-sharing movement. Oh, and co-founded Project Connect Group along the way—because apparently running a podcast wasn't ambitious enough.

#PayItForward 🚀

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Val Matthews

Val Matthews

🇦🇺 The Australian

Co-Founder & Co-Host

Val's superpower? Spotting BS from a mile away and calling it out with a smile. Perfect skill for a podcaster, really. 💼

After watching too many talented people hit invisible barriers just because they didn't have the "right connections," Val decided the whole system was broken. The solution? Build a platform where the best minds in the industry actually want to share their knowledge—for free, with anyone who's hungry enough to listen.

From podcast to community builder, Val co-founded Project Connect Group to take things offline too—hosting free events across the UK and Australia where people can actually meet the experts, not just listen to them. 200+ episodes later, Val continues championing accessible knowledge in an industry that still loves its gatekeepers.

#PayItForward 🌏

Support the podcast and keep the knowledge flowing

Why We Started This Thing

Back when we worked together, we realized we were always the youngest in the room—and not by a little. We'd look around the boardroom and think, "How did we get here? And why doesn't everyone have access to these opportunities?"

We had great mentors, amazing opportunities, and—let's be honest—perfect faces for radio. So we started this podcast to make expert insights freely available to anyone who wants to learn, grow, and level up their project careers. No paywalls. No gatekeeping. Just raw, real conversations.

That #PayItForward mindset led us to co-found Project Connect Group—free community events in the UK and Australia where people can connect, find mentors, and keep the cycle going.

Trusted by Project Professionals Globally

200+ industry leaders share their unfiltered insights—from Fortune 500 executives to startup founders

211+
Episodes Published
Since 2018
200+
Expert Guests
Across 30+ countries
10
Seasons
Of insights
6+
Years Running
#1 in Project Controls

Past Guests Include Leaders From:

🏢 Fortune 500 Companies
🏗️ Major Infrastructure Projects
🎓 Leading Universities
🚀 Tech Startups

Latest Episodes

Fresh insights from project experts worldwide

S10E211

S10E211: AI and Change Management - A New Era with Vincent Marsicano

In this episode of Project Chatter, hosts Dale and Val welcome Vincent Marsicano, CEO of Adopt It, to discuss the intersection of change management and technology. Vincent shares his unique background, which includes a PhD in physics and extensive experience in change management, emphasizing the importance of human-centered leadership in navigating organizational change. The conversation delves into the challenges of technology adoption, the role of AI in change management, and the necessity of understanding the human side of projects. Vincent argues that while technology can enhance efficiency, the core of successful change management lies in empathy and effective communication. As the discussion unfolds, Vincent highlights the significance of identifying key influencers within organizations to facilitate change. He also addresses the complexities of human behavior in project management, suggesting that understanding individual differences and fostering a culture of trust can lead to more successful outcomes. The episode concludes with reflections on the evolving landscape of change management, emphasizing the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for practitioners in this field. Takeaways Change management is fundamentally about the people side of projects. Technology is driving change, but it also creates challenges in adoption. Identifying key influencers within organizations can facilitate smoother change processes. Empathy and effective communication are crucial for successful change management. AI has the potential to revolutionize change management practices.

Guest

Dr. Vincent Marsicano

Dr. Vincent Marsicano

Adopt-It

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S9E210

S9E210: Healthy Habits for Busy Project Professionals with Becky Holliday

Dale flies solo (briefly!) to close out 2025 and welcomes first-time podcast guest Becky Holliday - a project manager turned health coach. Becky shares how redundancy in October 2023 became the catalyst for a career pivot, and why she now helps busy professionals (especially women) build sustainable health habits. Val drops in mid-episode and the conversation expands into discipline vs motivation, managing workload pressure, eating well without weekend meal-prep marathons, and why small wins beat heroic last-minute sprints. In this episode, you’ll learn Why Becky left project management and what she brought with her into health coaching How to start improving health when you “don’t have time” Why trying to change everything on Monday usually backfires A simple way to reduce stress and decision fatigue: the “3-item to-do list” Practical approaches to healthier eating that don’t require your Sunday afternoon How movement can support mental resilience when work pressure spikes Discipline vs motivation—and why habit size matters The role of identity, purpose, and values (and a thoughtful detour into spirituality)

Guest

Becky Holliday

Becky Holliday

Founder of BeckyHolliday.com

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S9E209

S9E209: Unlocking the Power of Reality Capture with Derek Lawrence

In this episode, Dale Foong discusses the fascinating world of reality capture with expert Derek Lawrence. They explore Derek's journey into the field, the various applications of reality capture in project management, and the integration of AI in this technology. The conversation also delves into the barriers to adoption, real-world use cases, and the future of reality capture, including its potential in creating digital twins. Derek emphasizes the importance of understanding existing structures and the value of capturing accurate data for decision-making in construction and beyond. Takeaways Reality capture is a digital copy of what is for decision making. Derek Lawrence transitioned from traditional engineering to reality capture due to frustrations with conventional methods. Laser scanning technology is becoming more accessible and easier to use. Reality capture can integrate with cost modeling and project management. There are significant barriers to the adoption of reality capture in the industry. Real-world applications of reality capture include construction monitoring and historical preservation. AI is enhancing reality capture capabilities, making it easier to create 3D models. The future of reality capture includes potential uses in various industries beyond construction. Derek encourages a fail-fast approach to testing new technologies. Digital twins require accurate data, and reality capture can help achieve that. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Reality Capture 05:42 Derek's Journey into Reality Capture 11:59 Understanding Reality Capture 18:52 Integrating Reality Capture with Project Management 22:43 Barriers to Adoption of Reality Capture 30:47 Real-World Applications of Reality Capture 42:46 The Future of Reality Capture and AI 57:39 Final Thoughts on Digital Twins and Reality Capture Links The Furze Underground Complex - https://youtu.be/QKTnx6F-XMo?si=oSfyOTvXwfkv2-gj Ian Jenkins talking about Gaussian Splats in the Meta Quest 3 - https://youtu.be/s6ZYbBsbAas?si=NVVz7mHMckj9p5-J Derek's YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@twindltd Derek's LinkedIn page - www.linkedin.com/in/twindlderek

Guest

Derek Lawrence

Derek Lawrence

Twindl Ltd

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S9E208

S9E208: Blockchain and Carbon: The Future of Project Management with Kevin O'Grady

In this episode of the Project Chatter podcast, Val and Dale welcome Kevin O'Grady, a director at Cognitive, who shares his extensive experience in project management, particularly in the built environment. The conversation delves into the practical applications of blockchain technology in construction, the importance of carbon tracking, and the emerging role of sustainable aviation fuel. Kevin provides insights into how these technologies can enhance project delivery and efficiency, while also discussing the challenges and opportunities they present. The episode emphasizes the need for transparency and collaboration in the industry, as well as the importance of measuring and improving carbon emissions. Takeaways Kevin O'Grady has a diverse background in project management and engineering. Blockchain can enhance transparency and trust in project delivery. Carbon tracking is essential for sustainable project management. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is gaining traction but faces infrastructure challenges. AI can play a significant role in tracking project progress and carbon emissions. Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for successful project outcomes. The construction industry needs to adapt to new technologies for better efficiency. Measuring carbon emissions is vital for improving sustainability in projects. Project wallets could revolutionize payment transparency in construction. Innovation in the industry is driven by the need for better practices and technologies. Chapters 04:24 Kevin O'Grady's Journey in Project Management 07:33 Transitioning from Engineering to Commercial Management 09:21 Technological Innovations in Project Management 13:12 The Role of Digital Twins in Project Delivery 17:20 Understanding Blockchain Technology 20:58 Blockchain Applications in Construction 27:43 Exploring Real-World Use Cases for Blockchain 30:23 Tokenization in Construction Payments 32:03 Linking Progress and Blockchain 34:54 Smart Contracts and Payment Automation 36:51 Challenges in Implementing Blockchain 39:42 The Role of Profit Margins in Construction 43:03 Carbon Measurement and Blockchain 43:32 Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Its Challenges

Guest

Kevin O'Grady

Kevin O'Grady

Kognitive

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S9E207

S9E207: Insourcing - Bringing Capability In-House with Jo Lucas

In this episode, Val and Dale engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Jo Lucas, exploring the evolving dynamics of insourcing versus outsourcing in organizations. Jo shares insights from her extensive experience, discussing the importance of human connection, decision-making, and the role of AI in modern workplaces. The discussion delves into the challenges and opportunities of insourcing, the impact of generational shifts, and the future of work in a rapidly changing world. Key Takeaways: Jo Lucas emphasizes the importance of human connection in organizational success. The conversation explores the shift from outsourcing to insourcing in modern workplaces. AI is seen as a tool for abstraction, while humans provide connection. Generational shifts impact workplace dynamics and decision-making. Insourcing offers opportunities for stability and purpose in jobs. The role of consultants is evolving with the trend towards insourcing. Decision-making is a key responsibility for clients in organizations. The future of work involves balancing technology and human relationships. AI can assist but not replace human decision-making and connection. Organizations must adapt to changing contexts and embrace flexibility.

Guest

Jo Lucas

Jo Lucas

Co.Cre8 Ltd

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S9E206

S9E206: Fast Forward to the Past – Dodging the bullets of tech trends like AI to deliver perfect projects with Prof. Eddie Obeng

In this episode, Val and Dale engage with Professor Eddie Obeng to explore the multifaceted implications of AI in today's world. They discuss the hype surrounding AI, its potential benefits and challenges in various sectors, particularly healthcare and governance. The conversation emphasizes the importance of human elements in technology, the need for a balanced perspective on AI's role in society, and the necessity of dreaming a better future rather than getting swept up in the gold rush mentality. 📖 All Change! [Project Chatter Edition] Takeaways AI is both a potential savior and a threat. The hype around AI often overshadows its practical applications. Understanding the human element is crucial in technology adoption. Persuasion plays a significant role in the AI gold rush. AI can enhance healthcare but must be approached cautiously. The future of work will be shaped by how we integrate AI. Governance can benefit from AI, but ethical considerations are paramount. Community values should guide the implementation of AI. AI's limitations must be acknowledged to avoid over-reliance. Dreaming a better future is essential for meaningful progress. Chapters 00:00 The AI Gold Rush: Promise or Peril? 13:19 Understanding AI: Tools vs. Jobs 22:40 The Human Element in Technology 31:49 Leadership in the Age of AI 33:09 Evolve, Dominate or Die: The New Business Paradigm 34:32 Harnessing AI: A Practical Approach 38:49 The Human Element in AI and Technology 41:07 AI in Healthcare: Opportunities and Challenges 44:47 Reimagining Community and Governance with AI 56:32 The Future of AI in Administration and Decision Making

Guest

Prof Eddie Obeng

Prof Eddie Obeng

Pentacle Ltd

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