The Curious Strategist and The Overwhelmed Task Manager, Two Contrasting Product Owner Patterns | Sara Caldwell

Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast: Agile storytelling from the trenches

Sara Caldwell: The Curious Strategist and The Overwhelmed Task Manager, Two Contrasting Product Owner Patterns The Great Product Owner: The Curious Strategist, A Model Product Owner

Sara describes an exemplary Product Owner who blended curiosity, strategic thinking, and empathy. By understanding team concerns and fostering connection, this PO became a trusted collaborator. Whether strategizing or engaging in team bonding, this PO consistently demonstrated entrepreneurial thinking and alignment with team goals.

The Bad Product Owner: The Overwhelmed Task Manager

A contrasting example involves a PO unable to perform beyond task management due to divided focus and limited availability. Sara reflects on systemic issues and offers tips for collaboration, like defining key moments for engagement and modeling desired behaviors to build alignment between PO and team.

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About Sara Caldwell

Sara is an organizational anthropologist passionate about human-centered change. She helps organizations tackle tough problems, all while keeping things fun and engaging. Sara blends strategic thinking with empathy, turning challenges into opportunities. Agile values guide her—whether helping teams flow, wrangling her rescue pets, or navigating the complexities of everyday life.

You can link with Sara Caldwell on LinkedIn.