Episode 344

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Published on:

25th Jan 2026

344: 10 Things PMO Leaders Need to Know (But Probably Don’t)

Welcome to the PMO Strategies Podcast + Blog, where PMO leaders become IMPACT Drivers!

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

There’s a moment I see over and over again with PMO leaders. 


You’re working hard. 

You’re doing what you were taught. 

You’re tracking delivery, building governance, reporting status, and trying to “earn” credibility. 

And yet…you’re still stuck. 

Still being pulled into admin work. 

Still left out of strategy conversations. 

Still wondering why leadership doesn’t see you as a true partner. 

In this episode of the PMO Strategies podcast, I’m sharing 10 things PMO leaders need to know, but probably don’t. 


Not because you’re not capable. Not because you’re doing it wrong. But because most PMO leaders were never taught what actually builds credibility, trust, and influence at the leadership level. 


What you’ll learn: 

  • Why being busy doesn’t equal being strategic 
  • The difference between project delivery and strategy delivery 
  • Why confidence comes from structure, not having all the answers 
  • How reporting activity erodes credibility while outcomes build trust 
  • What PMO leaders must stop doing if they want a seat at the table 

🎧 Click play now to rethink what it really means to lead a PMO. 

Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

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About the Podcast

PMO Strategies
with Laura Barnard
In this podcast, PMO leaders and those wanting to capitalize on the best of project management to deliver the organization’s strategy will uncover the hidden secrets of the best PMOs, learn the game-changing techniques that transform any PMO into a value-driven IMPACT Engine, and explore the best ways for the PMO to become an integral part of the fabric and future of an organization. After spending two and a half decades helping organizations deliver change, with 15 of those years in the shoes of PMO leader inside organizations, Laura strongly believes that there is more to making an IMPACT than templates, tools, and process. She’ll show you how to make the shifts necessary to become a business-focused PMO that will become an invaluable organizational asset. With her guests and insights, we explore the sticky situations and tough challenges PMO leaders face, from sorting through all of the “noise” about what the PMO “should” do to finding the best ways for your PMO to make an IMPACT. Listen in, and you can discover how to shift your focus from outputs to outcomes, fundamentally changing the game for your PMO and personal success.

About your host

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Laura Barnard