Engineering Quality

In this episode of Engineering Quality, we sit down with Ali Feldman, a seasoned tech recruiter with experience across engineering, product, and leadership roles. Ali shares her insights on the evolving tech job market, how candidates can stand out, and practical strategies for navigating recruiting challenges in today’s competitive landscape.
We discuss:
Current trends shaping tech recruiting, including AI in applications and interviews

What makes a resume or LinkedIn profile stand out and what raises red flags

Strategies for reaching out to recruiters without overdoing it

How to navigate layoffs and pivot thoughtfully to your next role

The value of video screens, in-person interviews, and understanding company culture

Whether you’re actively looking for a job, considering a career change, or just curious about how tech recruiting works today, this episode is packed with actionable advice from someone who’s seen it all.

Connect with Ali:
🌐 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-feldman/ 

Follow us on social:
💼LinkedIn: Engineering Quality
🎥 YouTube: @EngineeringQuality
🌐 Website: https://www.engineeringqualitypodcast.com
Email: [email protected]

In this episode of Engineering Quality, we’re joined by Shaquanna Brown, an experienced Agile coach and BizOps leader, to explore the connection between Agile maturity, team alignment, and software quality. Shaquanna shares her insights from leading Agile transformations and helping organizations embed quality as a shared responsibility.
We discuss:
How Agile maturity correlates with sustainable, high-quality software

The importance of fully integrating testers and quality engineers into cross-functional teams

Common misconceptions about Agile, including “Agile means fast” and “Agile doesn’t require planning”

The value of a strong Definition of Done and Definition of Ready

How leaders’ actions impact Agile adoption and team effectiveness

Whether you’re a tester, developer, product manager, or engineering leader, this episode offers actionable strategies to improve collaboration, reduce rework, and ensure quality is baked into every stage of delivery.

Connect with Shaquanna: 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaquanna/ 

Follow us on social:
💼LinkedIn: Engineering Quality
🎥 YouTube: @EngineeringQuality
🌐 Website: https://www.engineeringqualitypodcast.com
Email: [email protected]

We’re kicking off Season 2 of Engineering Quality with a very special guest - Lisa Crispin, a true pioneer in agile testing and one of the most influential voices in the quality engineering community.
In this episode, Lisa joins Ale, Veronika, and Royalee to explore holistic testing - an approach that goes beyond “testing early” and looks at quality across the entire software development lifecycle.
We discuss:
What holistic testing really means (and why it’s more than shift-left)

Why quality is a shared responsibility across the whole team

How to build shared understanding before code is written

Practical techniques like risk storming, example mapping, and pipeline mapping

How testers can influence change without authority

The power of relationships in DevOps and modern teams

Whether you’re a tester, developer, product manager, or engineering leader, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration to help you build better software - together!
Connect with Lisa:
🌐 Website: https://www.lisacrispin.com 
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisacrispin 
🦋 BlueSky: @lisacrispin.bsky.social
Follow us on social:
💼LinkedIn: Engineering Quality

🎥 YouTube: @EngineeringQuality

🌐 Website: https://www.engineeringqualitypodcast.com

Email: [email protected]

References & People Mentioned in this Episode:
Risk Storming by Beren Van Daele
Mapping from Matt Wynne
Ashley Hunsberger
Abby Bangser
Practical Guide to Testing in DevOps - By Katrina Clokie
The Quality Coach's Handbook - Anne-Marie Charrett
The Paradox of Choice
XMind - Mind Mapping Tool

In this episode, we dive into the topic of tech layoffs and their wide-reaching impact on individuals, teams, and software quality. We explore why companies downsize, how layoffs are typically handled, and what the experience is like for those affected.
We also discuss the aftermath: shifting team dynamics, the toll on morale, and how leaders can respond with empathy. Finally, we share practical tips for navigating job loss, preparing for uncertainty, and maintaining a focus on quality through it all.

Follow us on social:
Website: ⁠⁠⁠engineeringqualitypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠

LinkedIn: Engineering Quality

Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we explore the concept of quality leadership and how it goes beyond traditional testing roles. Quality leadership impacts the entire product lifecycle by driving continuous improvement and ensuring that quality is embedded from the start. We discuss the essential traits of effective quality leaders, such as strong communication, empathy, and technical expertise, and how these qualities help shape a culture of excellence within teams.

Additionally, we dive into the core responsibilities of quality leaders, from setting quality standards and advocating for necessary resources to guiding teams toward delivering high-quality products. We also touch on how quality leadership fits within Agile environments. Finally, we offer practical advice for aspiring quality leaders who want to grow in their roles and impact their organizations meaningfully.

Follow us on social:
Website: ⁠⁠engineeringqualitypodcast.com⁠⁠
LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Engineering Quality⁠⁠
Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]