Put Value at the Forefront of What You Do
The Tech Less Podcast • April Rust
Charles Ackerman joins April Rust on The Tech Less Podcast to discuss consulting challenges, work identity, and the importance of putting value first.
Summary
I joined April Rust on The Tech Less Podcast (Episode 13) for a deep dive into the consulting world and how to stay centered on value. We explored challenges that many consultants face — from client-partner misalignment to navigating identity when your sense of self is tied to work.
We also unpacked how to design working modalities that protect time for deep work, enabling creativity, problem-solving, and strategic clarity in high-pressure environments.
Main Takeaways
- Misalignment is the hidden risk. Many consulting projects fail not from bad intent, but from unclear expectations between client and partner.
- Deep work matters. Protecting time for focus and creativity makes leaders more effective — and teams more fulfilled.
- Identity and resilience. Consulting is high-velocity; anchoring in purpose and clarity prevents burnout.
- Value is the compass. No matter the role or project, putting value at the forefront keeps efforts aligned with outcomes that matter.
Resources / Links
- Full episode: Listen on RSS.com
- Connect with me: LinkedIn
- Books mentioned in the episode: Radical Candor, How to Win Friends and Influence People, Crucial Conversations, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Deep Work, Catching Fire / Stealing Fire
Reflection
This conversation was a chance to step outside the mechanics of delivery and talk about the why behind the work. For me, clarity and value are inseparable: clarity ensures we see the landscape honestly, and value ensures we’re moving toward something that matters. That’s the throughline in my career, and why I believe value-first consulting isn’t just a practice — it’s a philosophy.