How do you measure the impact of one small, industry-focused podcast? In this co-hosts-only episode, Riccardo and Evgenia step back from the usual format to consider what it means to be showrunners, why the conversations they’re leading matter, and how Navigating Major Programmes has evolved as a platform for public discussion in the infrastructure industry. Evgenia reflects on her journey from listener, to guest, to co-host and the anxieties and adjustments that come with sharing ideas publicly, engaging with knowledgeable guests, and gaining confidence in the perspectives she has developed over 15 years in the industry.

The conversation explores the role of independent, not-for-profit platforms in a sector where large-scale sponsored events can limit the range of viewpoints being shared. Riccardo and Evgenia discuss whether the podcast has a large enough platform to make a difference and the impact of guest selection and frequency on audience growth. They also reflect on the challenge of scaling the podcast without compromising its independence.


The hosts also make time to tackle the broader development of major project leadership in Canada. Riccardo shares the original impetus behind the podcast, which has since evolved into the Canadian Major Projects Leadership Academy at the University of Toronto. The industry experts acknowledge and break down the gap between technical infrastructure expertise and the demands of leading major and mega projects, where so-called “soft” skills become increasingly critical. Riccardo and Evgenia’s final consensus won’t surprise loyal listeners: Navigating Major Programmes is a forum for practical ideas, meaningful connections, and ongoing conversations that help shape the future of infrastructure delivery.


Key Takeaways

  • How hosting a podcast builds confidence in and validation for industry perspectives;
  • The opportunity for independent platforms to create space for more diverse, real-world conversations about infrastructure;
  • The potential of the new Canadian Infrastructure Leadership Academy to fill a sector-wide leadership and business operations gap;
  • How organizations like the Future of Infrastructure Group (FIG) help turn conversations into action;
  • The reasons behind the unique skill set required for major project management.

Quote

  • “FIG really turbocharged the amount of ground that can be covered by the initiative.” - Riccardo Cosentino

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Podden och tillhörande omslagsbild på den här sidan tillhör Riccardo Cosentino, Shormila Chatterjee, and Evgenia Jilina. Innehållet i podden är skapat av Riccardo Cosentino, Shormila Chatterjee, and Evgenia Jilina och inte av, eller tillsammans med, Poddtoppen.