In today’s AI-infused environment, technical teams are being pushed harder and faster than ever—and it’s team leads and mid-level managers who bear the brunt. This hands-on workshop equips participants with practical tools to boost team performance without burning people out. Using a diagnostic framework developed with over a decade of coaching tech leaders, we'll cover techniques for improving team clarity, psychological safety, and accountability—especially in times of rapid change. You’ll walk away with actionable leadership tools you can use immediately to reduce friction, improve execution, and keep your team aligned and energized.
Key Takeaways
1 Apply a simple diagnostic framework to quickly identify friction points on their teams.
2 Strengthen psychological safety and trust to unlock creativity and problem-solving.
3 Build clarity and accountability systems that improve execution without adding bureaucracy.
4 Use mindful leadership practices to reduce burnout while maintaining high performance.
5 Adapt leadership approaches to balance human needs with the demands of AI-driven change.
Speaker
Sam McAfee
Founder & Managing Director @Startup Patterns
Sam McAfee is a Silicon Valley veteran with over 25 years of experience leading technology organizations. He has worked with global companies including Adobe, Unilever, P&G, GE, Teach for America, Credit Karma, and Anthem, as well as dozens of startups. Sam is the author of Startup Patterns and founder of Startup Patterns, a leadership and strategy firm helping founders and executives build resilient, high-performing organizations. He is also the co-founder of Humanize, an AI-powered leadership platform. Sam’s expertise blends modern product development, mindful leadership, and organizational transformation.
intermediate to advanced
