Episode 22: Top Leadership Takeaways for Project Managers with Alec Jacobson 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 22: Top Leadership Takeaways for Project Managers with Alec Jacobson

October 30, 2025 • Alex Tuck • Season 1 • Episode 22

In this episode of Project Zero, host Alex Tuck interviews Alec Jacobson, an ESG consultant and co-founder of AB Power. Alec shares his unique career journey from a freelance journalist and nonprofit founder to his current roles at TetraTech and AB Power. He discusses the skills he developed along the way, including project management as a journalist and leadership lessons learned at Booz Allen. Alec also elaborates on his Project Zero experience, founding a nonprofit news group, and the crucial lessons he learned about communication, giving feedback, and team leadership. They also touch on how AI could impact project management tasks and the importance of junior roles in the professional pipeline.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:42 Alec's Background and Career Journey

02:22 First Encounters with Project Management

03:46 Lessons from Booz Allen

06:31 Project Zero: Founding a Nonprofit News Group

09:05 Key Lessons Learned

15:45 Advice for Aspiring Project Managers

17:46 The Future of AI in Project Management

24:10 Career Reflections and Final Thoughts

27:11 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with Alec Jacobson