With Grow-Lean, you get six complete practice exams, four attempts at the actual exam, access to our community, one-on-one exam coaching, and a small class size (get the attention you deserve).
Manoj Vadakkan (also known as Man-OJ) is a seasoned Agile coach and trainer with over 15 years of experience practicing Scrum. A Certified Scrum Trainer (CST) with the Scrum Alliance and a Certified LeSS Practitioner, Manoj has spent nearly 25 years working with clients of all sizes, helping them adopt Agile methodologies effectively.
The trainer was highly engaging and used real-world examples to highlight the concepts throughout the course. Based on the practice exams, this course is very efficient at preparing you for the CSM exam.
The CSM training was very detailed. The class offered several ways to learn and understand SCRUM and AGILE foundation. The class is fast paste, but it allowed everyone time to understand each concept. The class targeted diverse organization. Allowing individuals to share their input and reasoning for decision making.
The course provided a good overview of the SCRUM team with a focus on the SCRUM Master. It also filled in some gaps that I had relating to how the SCRUM process is implemented in our company. The class was not perfect, we had some technical issues that while frustrating did provide an opportunity to work through issues.
The class provided insights about Scrum, Scrum Masters, roles involved in the process, and how each participates in SCRUM activities. Slides were instructive snd provided information that distinguished SCRUM as one of the Agile frameworks. Very helpful, informative, and preparatory for the CSM exam.
Working Grow-Lean was a very professional company to work with. Their materials were informative and all of their correspondence was thorough and helped with learning the material.
The practice sessions, lecture material all very informative and very detailed. It would be good idea to provide how to's on MIRO software, but not critical. Whole class was very well instructed
Grow-lean mentors are very welcoming and always check on their students to make sure they are receiving they knowledge being transferred. I will definitely recommend it who ever try to enroll with Grow-lean
Had an informative and engaging time over these last two days learning all things Scrum! Grow-Lean definitely prepared me and I feel confident proceeding both into this exam as well as into my career! Any and all should come and take this course!
Loved the course, really interactive and with lots of useful exercises and examples on how to apply the practices we have been taught during the class. Would totally recommend it!
The class was very engaging, lots of discussion and fun as well. Instructor had a unique ways of explaining the concept. Loved it. The Mural board was a bit annoying in start and eventually got used to it.
Very detailed and engaging class. I like how interactive the class is and we got to collaborate in the different break-out rooms. I highly recommend Grow-lean and I plan on taking additional courses with them to advance my knowledge and career.
Thank you for such a hands-on and applicable training! The real-world scenarios, anecdotes, and examples made the material more relevant and easier to apply.
One of the best Scrum training courses I've attended. Well planned, ran smoothly from start to finish. I was able to gather more useful information specific to my PO role than from other courses in the past. Highly recommend.
This is a great course. With the two days course I learn some skills that can use in the product in our organization. And also this is a 9pm to 5am course for me in Taiwan's timezone but still is a great learning journey for me.
The instructors at Grow Lean are second to none and have extensive/founding knowledge on all Scrum/Agile principles. The classes are taught in a dynamic and interactive way so to keep you engaged throughout. They make sure to apply all aspects to real life scenarios and can provide so much content it's a shame the classes are only 2 days.
Great medium on Mural. Excellent instructor. Exercises were very useful and did a great job at cementing knowledge.
Dan Patti was not only knowledge buy his background and history enriched the experience as he shared and gave insight to many of the attendees how to bridge gaps an better implement scrum at here own organizations
I love taking training courses at Grow-Lean, LLC. All of their trainers (i.e., David, Don, and Arlen) are excellent, which makes the training very informative. They also make it fun.
It was the first time I ever attended an online class. I wasn’t sure what to expect. It was a great experience. The instructor was down to earth which made a more comfortable learning environment. The instructor made the material very easy to follow by using real world examples and techniques. He made sure everyone understood the topic at hand and kept everyone engaged. The breakout rooms were the best. Everyone had the opportunity to practice what they learned. There were no wrong answers and the review of the answers helped us to grasp the concepts better.
For me what standout in my recent class was how thoughtfully content was created and explained by the instructor. It was explicit, unequivocal and knowledgeable. Really like the strategy or way of teaching of instructor which was engaging, collaborative/interactive in nature.
Great professor, very enthusiastic and charismatic
Excellent structure to the training, forward-looking, real type scenarios, very professional and knowledgeable. The class is very engaging, especially now with Covid, with all being remote. The knowledge will stay with you, I was able to apply concepts that I’ve to learn during the training the next day, and it has already improved in my way of approaching Agile.
I highly recommend Grow-Lean for all your Agile certification needs. The instructors are friendly, accessible, and very knowledgeable. You will be adequately prepared to pass the exams. They have weekend classes, and the prices are very reasonable, especially if you take advantage of the early bird and alumni discounts.
Very informative course which not only explained the Scrum process but also delved into other Aglie Frameworks to show the difference between Scrum and other methodologies. The in-class activities were fun and engaging while giving students a more thorough understanding of the benefits of Scrum.
The class was fascinating and fun; the activities and interactions between participants in the call were really nice and always keeping the ides of Scrum in practice. The use of visuals and images to support the ideas and concepts is great to help to retain the information. I had so much fun and I will recommend it to my friends and colleagues.
Exercise samples shown throughout this page are representative. Visual materials vary by trainer.
Live workshop with no slides and no PowerPoint. Master the Scrum Master role through hands-on exercises, real-world scenarios, and practical facilitation techniques.
Exercises drive the session so you learn concepts in an engaging manner. Exercises are done in small breakout rooms and then the entire class reviews to ensure practical learning and skill development.
Give your team tools and techniques to execute better.
Take Bill Wake's INVEST model (shown here). You leave with a concrete checklist to evaluate and shape user stories. Move from describing good practices to actually enabling them.
You will build a toolkit of models, frameworks, and facilitation techniques you can use to integrate AI, coach Developers, guide a PO, or remove impediments.
Our session has 30+ exercises and deep discussion leaving no time for fluff, fillers, long videos and other non-value added content.
We avoid oversimplified answers and common myths. For example...
At Grow-Lean, we understand that job loss and financial hardships can be overwhelming. Many of our customers and community members have shared their challenges, and we want to help.
For a limited time, we are providing even deeper discounts, making it easier for you to continue learning and advance your career. This program applies courses taking place between now and 15 March 2026 and includes early bird (automatically applied), alumni, groups (3+ at one or many events), hardship, out of pocket, student, teacher and military. Apply for a discount on the session date you are interested in.
Use your mouse wheel, or finger to choose a discount, then click on it.
Master the material with six comprehensive 50-question practice exams that mirror the real test.
Build confidence speaking the language of Scrum through realistic scenario-based questions.
Prepare beyond the exam with questions more challenging than what you'll face on exam day.
Learn from every answer with instant feedback and detailed explanations for each question.
A deep dive into the 4 values and 12 principles of the Agile Manifesto gives you the philosophical foundation you need to understand why Scrum works the way it does. You will explore what each value and principle means in practice, not just on paper.
Understanding the Manifesto deeply allows you to answer the toughest questions from your team with confidence and help your organization make better decisions grounded in agile thinking.
Go beyond memorizing the Scrum Guide. You will learn how to run Scrum effectively through hands-on exercises covering all three pillars of the framework:
A great Scrum Master is a servant leader who empowers the team rather than directing them. You will learn how to coach Developers toward self-management, support the Product Owner in maximizing product value, and help the broader organization understand and adopt Scrum.
Through hands-on exercises, you will practice removing impediments, facilitating productive conversations, and creating an environment where your team can do their best work consistently.
We have heard from many students about their challenges with job loss and the fear of it.
We have expanded our discounts from now through March 15, 2026, to help you keep moving forward.
Deep discounts are available for:
Browse our upcoming sessions, pick a session, and select the “Discounts” link to apply.
Let’s navigate this journey together.
Want more value from the session we will work with you to make it happen with options including a free retake and/or one-on-one support.
Get the best quality training from a provider you can trust.
Grow-Lean goes beyond just delivering content. We help you succeed after class with realistic practice exams that simulate the real test, helping you find gaps and build confidence.
Unsure about a topic or not feeling ready? We’re here to help with personalized guidance from experienced trainers who want to see you pass.
Train with confidence, practice with purpose, and pass with Grow-Lean by your side.
Other providers often pack 50+ students into a class. At Grow-Lean, we keep class sizes small, so you can get more personalized attention, deeper engagement, and direct access to your trainer.
With fewer distractions and more chances to ask questions, you'll leave the course better prepared to apply your learning in real-world situations.
Secure your spot and experience the Grow-Lean difference.
The Scrum Master helps Developers and Product Owners grow as individuals and as a team, improving outcomes for everyone - the team members, the Scrum Team as a whole, and the entire organization.
Here's how a Scrum Master creates value:
Not at all. While agile originated in software development, it has expanded dramatically across industries and roles.
Our CSM classes welcome:
You don't need a technical background to become an effective Scrum Master.
Our sessions are 100% live and interactive.
The only pre-recorded content is a handful of short video clips (less than 5 minutes total) used to enhance specific learning points. Everything else is real-time interaction with your trainer and fellow students.
All CSM sessions use Zoom as the primary platform. Depending on your trainer, you may also use collaborative tools like Mural, Miro, or Google Drive.
Everything you need to get started:
Don't stress about perfection! We understand that kids, pets, family members, or roommates may make appearances. It's all part of remote learning.
Need help with setup? Contact us before class and we'll walk you through it.
You'll receive comprehensive materials throughout your learning journey:
Before class:
During class:
After class:
Here's what sets Grow-Lean apart:
Our CSM trainers are among the most experienced in the industry:
Pioneers in Agile:
Proven Track Record:
You're learning from instructors who helped shape modern Scrum practices.
Yes, absolutely. Grow-Lean holds the highest levels of Scrum Alliance approval:
Path to CSP Educator:
Registered Education Provider (REP):
Trainer Credentials:
Yes! Grow-Lean offers buy-now-pay-later via Splitit:
Note: Splitit is available when your registration total meets the minimum threshold. Some deeply discounted registrations may fall below this amount and won't qualify for installment payments.
Yes! Grow-Lean offers an industry-leading array of discounts. Availability varies by location, trainer, and session capacity.
Available discounts:
Many discounts can be combined as shown below:
Note: Discounted seats are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Request your discount today!
Yes, we understand that plans change.
Rescheduling details:
We'll work with you to find a session that fits your schedule.
Absolutely! We're here to help you make the right decision.
Visit our contact page and select "Call me" from the dropdown. Let us know:
We'll reach out to discuss your goals and help you choose the right path forward.
The CSM exam is straightforward and designed for success:
With Grow-Lean, you receive six comprehensive practice exams at no additional cost. Students who pass our practice exams consistently pass the official exam on their first attempt with high scores.
Need personal coaching? We're here to help, just reach out.
No. The exam is designed to validate your learning, not trip you up.
Yes! With proper preparation, you should pass on your first attempt.
Our approach to your success:
Students who pass our practice exams consistently pass the official CSM exam on their first try with high scores.
Need extra help? Personal coaching is available, just reach out.
CST, CSM, A-CSM, CSP-SM, CSPO, A-CSPO, CSP-PO
Manoj Vadakkan (also known as Man-OJ) is a seasoned Agile coach and trainer with over 15 years of experience practicing Scrum. A Certified Scrum Trainer (CST) with the Scrum Alliance and a Certified LeSS Practitioner, Manoj has spent nearly 25 years working with clients of all sizes, helping them adopt Agile methodologies effectively.
Manoj's diverse work experience spans various industries, including Telecommunications, Insurance, Banking, and Media. Additionally, he has collaborated with numerous government agencies such as the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Census Bureau, the U.S. Navy, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the U.S. Postal Service.
In addition to his Scrum certifications, Manoj is also a Project Management Professional (PMP) and an Agile Certified Professional (ACP) through the Project Management Institute (PMI). Before transitioning to Scrum, he amassed over a decade of experience as a Project Manager. His Certified Scrum Master (CSM) workshops help project managers and those used to plan-driven approaches embrace Scrum methodologies, offering practical tips and strategies for organizational transformation.
His training sessions are known for their experiential learning approach, where participants engage in meaningful activities and discussions rather than traditional lectures and PowerPoint presentations.
Based in Denver, Colorado, Manoj actively participates in the local Agile community. He frequently attends Agile events in Colorado and previously, until 2014, was deeply involved in the Washington, D.C. Metro Agile community. Notably, he co-founded Agile DC, the premier Agile conference in the D.C. area, which attracts over 500 attendees annually.
Attending this class qualifies you to take the CSM certification exam. When you pass, you'll be recognized as a Certified ScrumMaster.
We're committed to your success. You get ongoing support until you pass:
All we ask is that you use the practice exams to prepare. Students who do consistently pass on their first attempt.
Not satisfied? No problem. Take the class again for free including the option to switch to a different Grow-Lean trainer.
You also get free one-on-one coaching sessions if you're struggling with concepts or need help preparing for the exam.
Your learning success is completely risk-free.
Theory + Real-World Experience
Your Grow-Lean trainer deeply understands agile theory and has successfully applied it across diverse situations. They know what works, when it works, and how to adapt approaches to your context. You'll be prepared to interview confidently and execute with excellence.
Imbalanced Expertise
Theory without practice: Trainers with limited real-world experience deliver vague content lacking depth. You won't find practical application in the workplace.
Practice without understanding: Trainers who emphasize experience without grasping underlying theory can't help you adapt approaches to your specific situation.
100% live, interactive sessions Small class sizes (your voice is heard) Hands-on exercises throughout Expert trainers with 15+ years experience Real student testimonials No surprise fees or hidden costs
Passive learning (sit and watch) Massive class sizes (50+ students) One-way lectures with minimal interaction Inexperienced trainers with limited real-world practice Suspicious testimonials Hidden fees and surprise costs
The CSM is the de facto training to checkpoint or start an agile journey to build practical agile skills. Although it is titled "ScrumMaster," it is applicable regardless of your role or planned role. As such, attendees come from a wide variety of backgrounds:
After completing the Grow-Lean CSM, you'll be prepared to pass the CSM exam and continue your journey. If you want to perform better at work or expand your career opportunities, the Grow-Lean CSM course is an excellent choice!
By taking the session you earn the right to take the certification exam. Once you pass the exam, you are a Certified ScrumMaster.
The certification will help differentiate you , but more importantly, the learning will allow you to interview with more confidence and apply core agile product development techniques in the workplace. The session, plus actual work experience, will allow you to pursue the Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM) and Certified Scrum Professional ScrumMaster (CSP-SM) certifications.
Appropriate use of agile requires a mindset and approach that may differ from your current approach. Read the points below to see if the session is right for you.
Our Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) course is designed for those who are ready to embark on a continuous learning journey across any field or discipline. Agile and Scrum are deep topics, and excelling in an agile role requires dedication and effort beyond the classroom. Our course provides a solid foundation from which to grow, not a final destination, so you will need continued hard work outside the classroom.
Agility is about adapting as the context changes. If you thrive in environments where flexibility and critical thinking are valued over following rigid, detailed instructions, our session will be a good fit for you.
The principles of agile are universal, yet their application can vary across different industries. This session is ideal for those who can embrace nuance and apply agile thinking to their unique situations.
We build our sessions on constructive feedback. Our trainers are committed to guiding you toward deeper understanding, helping you learn and grow. This requires that you be open to feedback that may challenge your current mental models.
If you are someone who is always learning, and you are willing to apply critical thinking, work through ambiguity, embrace nuance, and question your own mental models, our CSM will likely benefit you . If not, you may want to consider a different certification or training provider.
Everything you need is included.
No extra fees to register or take exam!
Choose your training company wisely.
With Grow-Lean everything is covered including the exam certification fees, six full practice exams
three free exam retake, free exam study support, and free class retake (within 120 days). There are no surprise costs when you
register or accept your license.
You receive additional discounts off of your next session, including the Advanced ScrumMaster (A-CSM).
Fair price, exceptional training, best value.
Everything you need to be certified is included. No hidden fees!
Take again for free*.
*Within 120 days as long as Grow-Lean delivers the session.
Concepts are reviewed in a meaningful way by an expert with actual experience.
Small class size so that your voice is heard.
Interactive class experience.
Custom created training material and approach.
Training team support seven days a week.