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Project Management Beyond Work with Bridget Davis (Part 2)

Description:
Project management isn’t just for boardrooms or classrooms—it shows up in art studios, Renaissance fairs, and even around the gaming table. In part two of our conversation with Bridget Davis, PMP, CSM, DASM, we dive into how project management skills translate beyond formal work.

Bridget shares her entrepreneurial journey with Heathen Works, her woodburning art business, where planning, budgeting, and production all rely on project management principles. She also reveals the uncanny parallels between Agile project management and Dungeons & Dragons. From Dungeon Masters acting like Scrum Masters to players learning trust, teamwork, and risk-taking, the lessons are as practical as they are fun.

We also reflect on how risks—whether in a game or in higher education leadership—can be reframed as opportunities. From critical dice rolls gone wrong to institutional enrollment declines, Bridget and the hosts share stories of turning setbacks into innovations.

What You’ll Learn:

  • How project management supports entrepreneurship and creative businesses.

  • Why Dungeons & Dragons provides a surprising but effective model for team leadership.

  • The power of games in executive training and experiential learning.

  • How to reframe risks and failures into opportunities for growth.

  • Why curiosity is the key to engaging learners and building trust.

Mentioned in This Episode:

  • Heathen Works: Heathen Works 

  • Ravenwood Renaissance Festival, Winchester, VA

  • How to Be More D&D: Face Your Dragons, Be More Adventurous, and Live Your Best Geeky Life: https://amzn.to/4gBMM8q 

  • Dungeons & Dragons Starter Sets:  https://amzn.to/4pAYcO9 

  • Rio Salado College “Rio Way” experiential training and team games

Reflection Question:
How can you apply your professional skills to the most important passions in your life?

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