Episode 20: The Project Manager’s Balancing Act with Pete Walker Artwork

Project Zero

From first steps to best practices — stories that shaped project leaders.

Project Zero is a podcast for project managers — and the PM-curious — who want more than frameworks and certifications. Each episode features a project leader, highlighting first projects and the pivotal lessons that shaped their approach to leadership, collaboration, and delivery.

From unexpected missteps to breakthrough moments, these conversations reveal what it really takes to grow into a confident, competent project manager. It’s honest, insightful, and designed to help you lead better — whether you're managing your first task or your hundredth milestone.

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Project Zero

Episode 20: The Project Manager’s Balancing Act with Pete Walker

October 16, 2025 • Alex Tuck • Season 1 • Episode 20

In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Pete Walker, a co-founder of Navigate, about his extensive experience in project management. Pete shares his journey from being an industrial engineer and psychologist to a project manager working on transformation projects and process re-engineering. Highlighting his 'Project Zero'—an ERP transformation at General Dynamics—Pete recounts the challenges and lessons learned, emphasizing the importance of communication and adaptability. The discussion covers the evolving role of project managers, the significance of organization skills, and actionable advice for aspiring project managers.

00:00 Introduction to Project Zero

00:08 Meet Pete Walker: Co-founder of Navigate

00:30 Pete's Journey into Project Management

01:45 The Role of Engineering and Psychology

03:04 First Major Project: ERP Transformation

10:33 Lessons from Project Zero

15:41 The Importance of Communication

18:31 Future of Project Management

23:01 Advice for Aspiring Project Managers

26:51 Conclusion and Contact Information

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