My Communication Path Visualizer: https://mediaventuresllc.gumroad.com/l/communicationpathvisualizer

Project Failure video:

https://youtu.be/TzNaNtGpWsM

Resources mentioned in this episode:

· Mendelow's Power-Interest Grid (Stakeholder Mapping)

· PMI PMBOK Guide — Communication Channels Formula: N(N-1)/2

· The Mythical Man-Month by Frederick P. Brooks Jr. (1975)

· RACI Matrix framework

· Microsoft Work Trend Index (2023)

Episode Description:

Communication is the invisible backbone of every successful project — and one of the first places early-career PMs quietly struggle.

In this episode, we break down the practical side of project communication: how to identify the right stakeholders and understand their influence, why adding more people to a project can actually make communication harder (the math will surprise you), and how to run meetings that create real momentum instead of just consuming time.

We also cover how to deliver honest, credible status updates, keep your team and stakeholders aligned on the project vision long after kickoff, and a handful of communication best practices that don't get talked about enough.

Whether you're stepping into your first PM role or looking to sharpen skills you already have, this episode gives you frameworks and habits you can put to work immediately.

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Being a Project Manager | © 2026 | All rights reserved

Episode 1 | CAPM vs. PMP: Which Certification Should You Get First in 2026?

With the PMP exam changing in July 2026, the CAPM vs. PMP question has a new wrinkle — and the answer depends entirely on where you are in your career right now.

In this episode, Mike breaks down both certifications, what's actually changing with the 2026 PMP exam update, and gives you a clear framework for deciding which path makes the most sense for you.

What's covered:

• What CAPM and PMP are, and what each one actually proves to an employer

• The 2026 PMP exam changes and why the Business Environment domain now matters more than ever

• Who should get CAPM first — and who's wasting time and money by doing so

• Why your support role experience may already qualify you for PMP

• The salary difference between CAPM and PMP holders

• A simple decision framework based on where you are in your career today

Key dates:

• Last day to sit for the current PMP exam format: July 8, 2026

• New PMP exam launches: July 9, 2026

If this episode was helpful, subscribe and share it with one person who needs to hear it.

Connect with Mike: Questions? Message me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpfesko/