Episode 12: Short - EVMS Basic Components
Release: 03/27/26
Work in progress: a short where Barbara and Amber explain one section of the DOE EVMS Gold Card: EVMS Basic Components like BCWS, BCWP, and ACWP
Episode 11: The Case for Transformative Change with Dave Kester and Daniel Goldsmith
Release: 03/20/2026
In Episode 11 of Let’s Talk EVM, Amber Young and Barbara Phillips are joined by Dave Kester and returning guest Daniel Goldsmith for a discussion on the case for transformative change in Earned Value Management. Drawing on insights from the IP2M METRR study, the episode explores how environment, culture, and leadership behaviors shape the effectiveness of EVMS. A thought-provoking conversation about the future of the discipline.
Episode 10: Scheduling - Focus on Critical Path
Release: 03/13/2026
In Episode 10 of Let’s Talk EVM, Amber Young and Barbara Phillips are joined by Kenny Arnold of SSI to explore one of scheduling’s most important—and often misunderstood—concepts: the critical path. The conversation examines how critical path analysis works in practice, why clarity in schedule logic matters, and how teams can use schedules as real management tools rather than static reports. A practical discussion for schedulers, CAMs, and project leaders alike.
Episode 9: Portfolio Performance Management with John Driessnack
Release: 03/06/2026
In Episode 9 of Let’s Talk EVM, Amber Young and Barbara Phillips welcome John Driessnack for a conversation on managing performance at the portfolio level. Moving beyond individual projects, the discussion explores how organizations align programs to strategic outcomes, use data to guide leadership decisions, and build synergy across complex portfolios. A thoughtful look at how performance management evolves when the scale expands.
Episode 8: For the Love of Scheduling with Lisa Hastings
Release: 02/27/2026
In Episode 8 of Let’s Talk EVM, Amber Young and Barbara Phillips are joined by scheduling expert Lisa Hastings for a thoughtful conversation on why scheduling remains foundational to program performance. The discussion explores what makes a credible schedule, the evolving role of schedulers, and how industry guidance like the PASEG informs best practices. A reflective episode on the craft, discipline, and future of scheduling.
Episode 7: Tell Your Neighbor - What is IP2M METRR?
Release: 02/20/2026
In Episode 6 of Let’s Talk EVM, Amber Young and Barbara Phillips debut the short-form segment Tell Your Neighbor, joined by recurring guest Daniel Goldsmith. Stepping away from jargon, the episode reframes Earned Value Management as integrated project management — connecting scope, schedule, and budget to improve visibility and decision-making. A clear, foundational discussion for both newcomers and experienced practitioners.
Episode 6: Tell Your Neighbor - What is EVM?
Release: 02/13/2026
In Episode 6 of Let’s Talk EVM, Amber Young and Barbara Phillips debut the short-form segment Tell Your Neighbor, joined by recurring guest Daniel Goldsmith. Stepping away from jargon, the episode reframes Earned Value Management as integrated project management — connecting scope, schedule, and budget to improve visibility and decision-making. A clear, foundational discussion for both newcomers and experienced practitioners.
Episode 5: Love-Hate-Love about EVM with Luis Contreras
Release: 02/06/2026
In this Valentine’s-themed episode of Let’s Talk EVM, Amber Young and Barbara Phillips are joined by Luis Contreras, CEO of AzTech International, for a candid “love–hate–love” conversation on Earned Value Management. From gamifying forecasts and embracing uncertainty to the pitfalls of treating EVM as “just a report,” the discussion highlights the role of culture, credibility, and mindset. A practical and refreshing take on making EVM both rigorous and human.
Episode 4: CAM’s Corner with Briannah Smith
Release: 01/30/2026
In Episode 4 of Let’s Talk EVM, Amber Young and Barbara Phillips introduce CAM’s Corner with special guest Brie Smith, a former Control Account Manager turned consultant and EVM surveillance professional. Brie shares a candid, experience-driven look at the CAM role, offering practical insights on program rhythms, variance analysis, working relationships, and building credibility. A must-listen for anyone curious about life as a CAM or growing into the role.
Episode 3: Bidding Contracts with EVMS with Michael Breuker
Release: 01/23/2026
In Episode 3 of Let’s Talk EVM, Amber Young and Barbara Phillips are joined by Michael Breuker of Pinnacle Management Systems for a practical discussion on bidding contracts with an Earned Value Management System. The conversation unpacks common misconceptions about validation, proposal strategies, implementation planning, and why early EVMS decisions shape program outcomes. A valuable episode for proposal teams, project controls professionals, and leaders navigating EVMS requirements.
Episode 2: The Cost of EVM with Ivan Bembers
Release: 01/16/2026
Join us as we discuss the cost of EVM with esteemed guest Ivan Bembers, focusing on the Joint Space Cost Council (JSCC) EVM cost study that he co-authored.
Some related links:
Episode 1: Why EVM Matters with Daniel Goldsmith
Release: 01/09/2026
In the premiere episode of our new podcast, co-hosts Amber Young and Barbara Phillips sit down with esteemed guest Daniel Goldsmith for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation on why Earned Value Management (EVM) matters. This episode sets the foundation for the discussions to come, blending real-world insight with accessible conversation for listeners at every level.
Teaser: Introducing 'Let's Talk EVM': A New Earned Value Management Community
Release: 12/13/2026
Welcome to the very first episode (teaser!) of 'Let's Talk EVM'! Join hosts Amber Young and Barbara Phillips as we kick off our podcast dedicated to exploring the world of Earned Value Management (EVM). In this teaser, we introduce ourselves, share our vision for building a vibrant community, and give you a sneak peek at what's coming in future episodes. Get ready for insightful discussions, guest interviews, and a journey into the heart of EVM!
Our first episode will be out Friday morning (UTC-5), January 9, 2026!
Source: https://open.spotify.com/episode/21ICB5l0pwwEMf0bSiXiP3?si=19c0470e7d164cc3