Chain of Learning: Empowering Continuous Improvement Change Leaders

Enter to win a copy of "Managing on Purpose" by Mark Reich, Chief Engineer of Strategy at the Lean Enterprise Institute (LEI). Giveaway open through June 20th.How effective is your organization's strategy in achieving results?If your team doesn't understand how their daily work connects to bigger organizational goals, you don't have a strategy—you have a gap. A gap in engagement. A gap in alignment. This gap leads to confusion, misaligned priorities, and wasted effort.I'm joined by Mark Reich, author of “Managing on Purpose”, to explore how hoshin kanri – often translated as strategy or policy deployment – can bridge this gap and transform your strategy development and deployment process.With 23+ years at Toyota and extensive experience guiding organizations through lean transformations, Mark reveals how hoshin kanri offers a different approach to strategy execution and management. It connects people to purpose, builds capability, and aligns cross-functional areas, turning vision into results.Turn your strategy into action by aligning and building a purpose-driven organization.YOU'LL LEARN:Differences between hoshin kanri and traditional strategy management Common misconceptions around strategy deployment and what sets hoshin kanri apartThe role of catchball in connecting top-down and bottom-up processesThe importance of building reflection (hansei) and PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) into the processReal-world examples of organizations successfully transitioning to hoshin kanri strategy development and deploymentABOUT MY GUEST:Mark Reich is the author of “Managing on Purpose.” He spent 23 years at Toyota, including six years in Japan, seven years at the Toyota Supplier Support Center (TSSC), and over a decade leading Toyota's North American hoshin kanri process. Today, he's the Senior Coach and Chief Engineer of Strategy at the Lean Enterprise Institute (LEI), where he guides organizations and their executives on lean transformation.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/45Connect with Mark Reich: linkedin.com/in/markareichMark Reich's book, “Managing on Purpose”: lean.org/store/book/managing-on-purposeResources and ways to work with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonDownload my FREE KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst Learn more about the history and application of hoshin kanri: Learning to Lead, Leading to LearnTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:2:05 Hoshin Kanri vs. traditional management approaches to strategy2:52 Mark defines hoshin kanri3:49 What people get around around strategy deployment4:26 Two key differences that sets hoshin kanri apart from traditional strategy5:16 The problem Mark aimed to solve in “Managing On Purpose”10:07 Why knowing your true north vision matters11:34 The complexity of the x-matrix in implementing strategy15:31 Why catchball is essential to hoshin kanri20:32 Leading effective catchball conversations23:07 Vertical vs. horizontal catchball24:31 Collaborative input in the A3 process26:17 How leaders can retain perspective for effective catchball conversations28:30 The PDCA cycle's critical role in hoshin kanri framework31:06 Importance of flexibility in leadership32:19 Distinguishing daily tasks vs. long term tasks for success34:31 Embedding reflection time in the hoshin process to make PDCA work37:31 Long-term learning in implementing effective systems39:48 Using hansei for reflection and prioritization Enter to win a copy of "Managing on Purpose" by Mark Reich, Chief Engineer of Strategy at the Lean Enterprise Institute (LEI). Giveaway open through June 20th.Apply today for my next Japan Leadership Experience — learn more and discover the power of this immersive learning experience.

How many questions is too many?You know that asking effective questions is key to helping others solve problems and unlocking improvement, but can you ask too many questions?Yes! And when you do so, you actually hinder progress, not enable it.In this episode, I share one of the most common mistakes leaders and coaches alike make when learning to Break the Telling Habit® and moving from “telling” to “asking”. It's a crucial shift to stop being the expert with all the answers, but when you overpivot to only asking, you can leave the person you're intending to support feeling frustrated and stuck. Coaching for improvement isn't just about inquiry—it's about navigating what I call the “Coaching Continuum”—knowing when to provide open support for problem-solving and when to step in with direction.And importantly, always keeping the problem-solving responsibility with the person you are coaching.YOU'LL LEARN:When and how to switch between directive coaching and open coachingThe Coaching Continuum and how to maintain the ownership of problem-solving with the actual problem ownerThree key steps to navigate the Coaching Continuum effectivelyA leader or coach's role in overseeing the problem-solving process, whether using an A3 report or another improvement methodThe importance of embracing struggle in the learning process and allowing time for responseTune in to learn how to navigate this continuum and become a more effective Transformational Improvement Coach!IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/44Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonDownload my FREE KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst Learn more about the role of leader as coach: Learning to Lead, Leading to LearnTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:02:59 Navigating the coaching continuum 03:59 A brief explanation of the coaching continuum to be a more helpful coach05:32 The 3 key steps to effectively navigate the coaching continuum05:43 Step 1: Understand their thinking to know whether open coaching or directive guidance is needed07:12 Step 2: Get comfortable with struggle08:26 When to pivot from open coaching to directive coaching8:37 How to label your actions to clarify your intention11:01 Step 3: Today's not the only day, follow up with a coaching process question to encourage learning11:27 Benefit of asking a process question to understand next steps13:32 A leader's role in developing an  A3 report and owning the thinking process not the thinking15:13 Why coaching and leadership is situational15:35 Steps to make a plan for effective coaching15:42 Step 1: Ask a question before immediately jumping in15:54 Step 2: Give an example how you might approach the problem16:15 Step 3: The next step to take and what to expect

What's the real purpose behind the Japanese practices integral to lean management —like kata, obeya, and A3 reports?These methods are often misunderstood as mere templates or formats, without recognizing the deeper meaning and intention that drive their impact.In this episode, we're picking up on my conversation with Tim Wolput, Japanologist, Toyota Way management expert, and former World Aikido Champion, in Part 2 of this masterclass on Japanese culture and management. Tim brings a unique perspective on the connection between martial arts and leadership—exploring how practices like kata, obeya, and omotenashi (the spirit of hospitality) can be applied to transformational leadership in your organization.YOU'LL LEARN:What it means to flip the pyramid, highlighting the difference between servant leadership and traditional top-down leadershipWhat the tea ceremony teaches us in looking beyond transactional thinkingThe essence of obeya in being more than a space to display information and manage initiatives, but process for people development and collaborationThe importance of holding precious what it means to be human in leadership The concept of “ichigo ichie” and embracing the uniqueness of the present momentIn episode 42, we explored how Samurai and rice farming shaped Japanese leadership and how it differs from Western management. If you missed it, hit pause and listen now before continuing this episode!ABOUT MY GUEST:Tim Wolput is a Japanologist and Toyota Way Management expert passionate about helping people transform themselves, their organizations, and the world for the better. Since 2023 Tim has been my in-country partner for my immersive Japan Leadership Experiences. Originally from Belgium, Tim has lived in Japan since 1999 where he attended Tokyo University Graduate School where he studied the history of traditional Japanese mathematics. He is also the 2005 World Champion in Aikido. Tim is a certified Toyota Way Management System instructor and consultant to global organizations on Lean, Agile, and Toyota Production System (TPS).IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/43Listen to Part 1 with Tim Wolput: ChainfOfLearning.com/42Connect with Tim Wolput: linkedin.com/in/timwolputCheck out my website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn about my Japan Leadership Experience program: kbjanderson.com/JapanTripTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:01:54 The meaning and practice of Aikido and lessons for leadership and lean management06:20 What it means to flip the organizational pyramid and how it relates to supportive and servant leadership09:37 Importance of kata in Japanese culture 17:24 The ritual of the tea ceremony and how it relates to business and customer service21:05 Disadvantages of replacing humans with machines to get things done22:40 The concept of obeya, visual management, and people development25:30 The importance of being people focused rather than tools and processes to reach goals

Apply for the Nov 2025 Japan Leadership Experience - early registration rate now through May 31st! https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/ How much of the Toyota Way is dependent on Japanese culture?And how much of it all comes down to… being human?There are questions I've explored with 130+ global leaders who've joined my Japan Leadership Experience programs. To help you answer this question, I've invited Tim Wolput – Japanologist and Toyota Way Management expert, to Chain of Learning.Together, we take a deep (and fun!) dive into the differences between classical Japanese and Western management and explore the cultural and historical roots of real lean leadership.In this episode, we travel through Japanese history—from Confucius' teachings to samurai and rice farming traditions, and Deming's influence on Japanese management. If you've ever wanted a masterclass on Japanese management and Toyota Way principles—and how you can apply these lessons to create a culture of excellence—these two episodes are a must-listen.YOU'LL LEARN:Misconceptions about the Toyota Way management practices and applying the principles across culturesDeming's influence on Japan and the development of the Toyota Production System and Toyota WayThe way of the samurai: Focus on the process, not just the outcomeShu-ha-ri: The process towards mastery and turning knowledge into wisdom by learning through doing The power of leading through influence and “doing the right thing”: true leadership inspires growth, not just resultsSubscribe so you don't miss Part 2, where we continue along this path of learning to explore the nuances of Japanese concepts like kata and obeya and their relationship to lean management practices today.ABOUT MY GUEST:Tim Wolput is a Japanologist and Toyota Way Management expert passionate about helping people transform themselves, their organizations, and the world for the better. Since 2023 Tim has been my in-country partner for my immersive Japan Leadership Experiences. Originally from Belgium, Tim has lived in Japan since 1999 where he attended Tokyo University Graduate School and studied traditional Japanese mathematics. Tim is a certified Toyota Way Management System instructor and consultant to global organizations on Lean, Agile, and Toyota Production System (TPS).IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/42Connect with Tim Wolput: linkedin.com/in/timwolputCheck out my website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson Learn about my Japan Leadership Experience program: kbjanderson.com/JapanTrip TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:03:53 Biggest misconceptions about Toyota Way management practices05:10 Katie's perspective Japan versus the west08:46 The meaning of Shu Ha Ri and the traditional way of learning10:23 Deming's influence on Japan and The Toyota Way13:05 Why Japan embraced PDCA15:45 Difference in mindset between Asia and the west17:28 The working culture in Japan and how work together in the community22:17 Power of the supplier relationship23:40 Japanese leadership style29:15 Concept of doing the right thing30:56 How to focus on processes as the way to get results34:13 Powerful words of wisdom about the way of the samurai Apply for the Nov 2025 Japan Leadership Experience - early registration rate now through May 31st! https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/ 

You're doing great work….yet you know you could have a greater influence.You have a vision for more. More strategic work. More influence.Only question—how do you get there?The issue isn't your talent or skills. It's how you are positioned—how your clients or organization see (and value) your role.In this episode, I'm joined by Betsy Jordyn—former Disney OD consultant turned brand positioning strategist—to help you reshape how others perceive your value and become the one leaders turn to when it comes to making significant changes to their leadership and culture.Besty shares actionable ways to communicate your value so you can land the roles and work you truly deserve. And we both share insights we've learned from evolving the framing of our own positioning over time.Whether you're an internal change leader tired of being stuck in execution mode or a consultant struggling to land strategic engagements, this conversation is your road map to stop playing small.YOU'LL LEARN:What positioning actually is—and why it mattersHow to spot the signs your positioning isn't landing the way you wantThe 3 levels of positioning every leader and consultant should masterReal examples from our own careers on how we've evolved our positioningA simple process to clearly articulate your value and stand out in your marketABOUT MY GUEST:Betsy Jordyn is a Brand Positioning Strategist who helps consultants and coaches clarify their message, amplify their influence, and monetize their strengths. Drawing on her experience as a former Disney OD consultant and leader of an external practice serving brands like Wyndham and AAA, she empowers clients to make a bigger impact through authentic thought leadership.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/41Watch the Bonus Video – Elevate Your Positioning to Lead Transformational Change: https://youtu.be/O0W9dq3jYnw Connect with Betsy Jordyn: linkedin.com/in/betsy-jordynBetsy's Meeting Discovery Script: betsyjordyn.comBetsy's Podcast, Consulting Matters: betsyjordyn.com/podcasts/consulting-mattersMy website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonMy Japan Leadership Experience program: kbjanderson.com/JapanTripFREE KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:03:26 What positioning is and why it matters06:48 Why your brand is your reputation07:54 Signs your brand positioning is off10:38 Betsy's personal story in understanding the importance of positioning18:28 How Betsy helped Katie improve her positioning25:37 Changing the name from Japan Study Trip to Japan Leadership Experience28:42 Clarity - the highest level of positioning32:25 Second level of positioning that happens a client approaches you with a request35:25 How to clarify the strategic frame and position yourself against that42:15 Third level of positioning in positioning yourself as a strategic partner46:12 How to position yourself when working with a new client48:44 The opportunity of stepping out of the box and become a thinking partner50:06 One key learning to reposition your own work54:07 The strategic framework to pivot your messaging

Do you ever feel overwhelmed that you are responsible for doing too much?Maybe you're frustrated that your team relies on you for answers instead of developing their own solutions.Or you're disappointed that improvements fall apart as soon as you step away.The problem: You're likely stuck in the Doer Trap—and it's holding you (and your team) back from the results you want. The good news? There's a way out.In this episode, I dive into three simple shifts that will instantly help you break free from the Doer Trap and into true transformational leadership.Your power and influence doesn't come from doing it all.Whether you are an executive manager, internal change leader, or lean consultant, your ability to create lasting impact lies in knowing the outcomes you want and your role in getting there.Are you ready to break free from the Doer Trap and lead with real impact? YOU'LL LEARN:What the Doer Trap is—and why it's so easy to fall into5 Doer Trap roles (and which ones you might be stuck in)3 simple shifts to instantly break free of the Doer Trap and make immediate impactHow to gain clarity on your role and step into true leadership by modeling the wayA simple way to frame a contracting conversation to clarify roles and expectationsIMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/40Check out my website for resources and to learn more about my trusted advisor, coaching, and learning experiences KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonDownload my FREE KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst TIMSTAMPS:03:14 What the doer trap is—and why we fall into it04:55 Mode 1: The Hero – Not everything needs your rescue05:48 Mode 2: The Rescuer – Why you need to let others struggle06:52 Mode 3: The Magician – Doing it all behind the scenes07:43 Mode 4: Pair of Hands – When you default to doing09:53 3 simple shifts to break free from the trap10:06 Shift 1: Clarity – Know your role and who owns what14:14 Why so many operational leaders feel overwhelmed15:12 The power of a purposeful pause17:10 Shift 2: Contracting – Align on roles and expectations23:03 How to frame a clear contracting conversation27:58 Shift 3: Model the way and label your intent28:19 Two ways to reflect and invite real feedback31:49 A real-life example of how one leader found freedom33:42 Questions to reflect if you're falling into one of the doer traps

Enter to win a copy of Lisa Bodell's book "Why Simple Wins" ... and Apply for the Nov 2025 Japan Leadership Experience - super early registration rate now through March 31st! Ever feel like your to-do list never ends? Running from meeting to meeting with no time to think—let alone lead or create? You're not alone.The problem isn't you – that you're not working hard enough. You're probably stuck in the complexity trap—buried in endless demands, inefficiencies, and busywork that keep you (and your team) from doing what truly matters.To help you simplify and focus on meaningful work, I sat down with Lisa Bodell, CEO of FutureThink and bestselling author of Why Simple Wins and Kill the Company. Lisa has a clear message:

Apply for the Nov 2025 Japan Study Trip - super early registration rate now through March 31st! https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/ What have we really learned after four decades of lean? Is lean thinking still relevant today?And importantly — what needs to change to ensure its future success?In the previous episode, I sat down with James Womack, founder of the Lean Enterprise Institute, to look back on 40 years of lean thinking and management since the publication of The Machine That Changed the World. In this episode, we look ahead to the future of lean and dig into big questions, including those submitted by listeners:Is there a better term than “lean”? What would Jim do differently if he could reintroduce lean to the world?How do AI and new technologies fit with the application of lean principles?What's Jim's greatest surprise over the past 45 years?Jim doesn't hold back in this discussion  — and provides his advice as he passes the baton to the next generation of lean leaders. YOU'LL LEARN:Why lean principles still apply even as technology evolves and takes over tasks once done by peopleWhat's stopping organizations from fully embracing lean principles and practicesWhy lean must be leader-led—not outsourced to consultants or internal operational excellence teams How developing people's capabilities for problem-solving at all levels is critical to successThe true role and purpose of managementIf you are passionate about the potential of lean's impact now and in the future, this is an episode you won't want to miss. ABOUT MY GUEST:James P. Womack, PhD, is the former research director of MIT's International Motor Vehicle Program who led the team that coined the term “lean production” to describe the Toyota Production System. Along with Daniel Jones, he co-authored “The Machine That Changed the World”, “Lean Thinking”, and “Lean Solutions”. Jim is the founder of Lean Enterprise Institute where he continues to serve as a senior advisor. IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/38Listen to Part 1 where lean has failed and succeeded: ChainOfLearning.com/37Connect with James Womack: linkedin.com/in/womack-james-52763b212Check out my website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson Learn about my Japan Study Trip program: kbjanderson.com/JapanTrip TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:01:48 Two things Jim would do differently in introducing lean 03:92 Why consultant-driven Kaizen falls short05:29 The origin of the word “lean”08:29 The alternative label instead of the term "lean"10:26 How lean intersects with emerging and established technologies14:43 Analyzing AI's effectiveness through the value stream16:02 Jim's greatest surprise of the 40 + years of lean19:10 Changes at Toyota's Operations Management Development Division22:27 Why problem-solving skills matter at every level23:34 Jim's parting advice for the next generation of lean leaders Apply for the Nov 2025 Japan Study Trip - super early registration rate now through March 31st! https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/ 

Apply for the Nov 2025 Japan Study Trip - super early registration rate now through March 31st! “Lean has failed.”That's the bold statement James Womack—founder of the Lean Enterprise Institute and MIT researcher whose team introduced the term “lean” to the world—made at a conference where we both recently spoke.That really stuck with me.Has lean really failed? If so, what can we do to course correct?To explore this, I invited him to share his reflections and experiences over the past 40 years—where his vision for lean management has fallen short, where it's succeeded, and what we can learn for the future.In this episode, we take a hard look at lean's evolution, from James' original vision following the publication of “The Machine that Changed the World” nearly 4 decades ago to its real-world impact today.Tune in for powerful stories and insights from one of the founders of the lean movement, a chance to rethink what's next for lean leadership, and how you can adjust your approach towards organizational transformation.YOU'LL LEARN:The 5 critical interlocking elements of successful lean enterprise transformations — and what's missingHow to build systems and practices to sustain a lean culture that truly supports frontline teamsWhy most companies get their approach to operational excellence backwards and the challenge of getting leaders to see lean principles as the key to getting resultsWhy off-shoring and out-sourcing aren't long-term solutionsThe biggest challenges leaders face with lean transformationDon't miss Part 2 of this conversation where we explore lean's future, its relevance for today's global lean community, and James' advice for the next generation of leaders.ABOUT MY GUEST:James P. Womack, PhD, is the former research director of MIT's International Motor Vehicle Program who led the team that coined the term “lean production” to describe the Toyota Production System. Along with Daniel Jones, he co-authored “The Machine That Changed the World”, “Lean Thinking”, and “Lean Solutions”. James is the founder of Lean Enterprise Institute where he continues to serve as a senior advisor.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/37Connect with James Womack: linkedin.com/in/womack-james-52763b212Check out my website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 02:41 James' vision of what lean's impact would be today07:25 Five interlocking pieces of lean transformation and what's been missed07:49 Misconception of Kaizen14:27 Challenges in sustaining lean practices19:00 Lean leadership if implemented the right way21:58 Impact of offshoring and outsourcing24:29 Barriers to senior management buy-in26:42 Challenges in the frontline healthcare system30:27 The importance of daily management and Kaizen37:46 Contributions to GE Appliance's success39:28 The meaning of constancy of purpose41:04 Importance of knowing your north star41:55 The creation of Hoshin planning and why it fails the first year43:54 How we get out of the short-term approach Apply for the Nov 2025 Japan Study Trip - super early registration rate now through March 31st! https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/ 

How often do you pause to get a clearer view of your purpose and learn how your life experiences influence your leadership impact?Whether it's in the moment to reflect on a recent situation or zooming out at a major milestone to see the bigger picture, reflection can be incredibly powerful.I'm hitting pause myself this week as I turn the big 5-0! I share two concepts that have helped me understand what it means to live a life of intention and purpose.First, the metaphor of warp and weft—a powerful way to understand the interconnection of the known and discovered elements of your life and see the patterns that emerge in your life's fabric.Second, the deeper meaning of my guiding word—Intention. I explore how I've come to see that Intention = Heart + Direction® and the energetic vitality that uncovering your deeper purpose can have in both your personal life and leadership.If you are looking for ways to understand your purpose, reflect, to make more intentional choices, this episode is for you.Let's explore how you too can lead with intention and can weave purpose into everything you do.YOU'LL LEARN:The importance of reflection to learn and adjust and to understand your purposeHow the weaving metaphor of warp and weft enhances self-discoveryWhy Intention = Heart + Direction® and how to set powerful intentions to align your daily actions with your heartThe Japanese word Kokorozashi (志) and how its deep meaning can be applied to leadership impactIMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources referenced in today's show: ChainOfLearning.com/36Check out my website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonFor additional inspiration and guidance around understanding your own warp and weft, read my book "Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn," along with the companion workbook: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 00:40 Reflecting and celebrating turning 5002:50 The history of the warp and weft metaphor05:32 The difference between the warp and weft threads06:27 Questions to ask yourself to apply the warp and weft metaphor in your life09:32 The importance of “zooming out” to see to examine your own fabric of life11:01 Questions to ask yourself to reflect on your your past life experiences11:53 The relationship between the warp and weft metaphor with setting intention12:24 Discovering the richer meaning of Intention = Heart + Direction®13:36 The meaning of the two Japanese kanji symbols for intention14:58 How to apply the concept of Kokorozashi to find your inner purpose16:54 Questions to ask yourself to embody your Kokorozashi to make a bigger impact17:21 The importance of reflection at the micro level18:35 Leveraging Kokorozashi to help take actions that are aligned with your purpose

Enter to win a copy of Wendy Smith's book "Both/And Thinking"What do you do when you're stuck between two conflicting options? Deliver short-term results or take a long-term view?Focus on business outcomes or people development?Help by being the expert with the answer or a coach asking questions?For most of us, these competing choices are a source of conflict. We deal with uncertainty by asserting certainty that there are two distinct options to choose between.But what if there's a way to embrace both?That's why I invited Wendy Smith – award-winning psychologist and co-author of “Both/And Thinking” – to share her insights on how to make more creative, flexible, and impactful decisions in a world of competing demands.The most successful leaders and change agents have learned the power of navigating paradoxical tradeoffs and reframing problems to discover expansive solutions that didn't initially seem possible. Tune in to learn how to shift from that “either/or” mindset and embrace a “both/and” approach to tackle tough decisions, unlock new possibilities, and lead with greater impact.YOU'LL LEARN:Can you really have it all? – The difference between an and/and vs both/and mindsetA three step process to overcome dilemmas to create a more sustainable outcomeHow to reframe a problem when faced with a seemingly paradoxical choiceThree different patterns of risk when you're not able to shift from the either/or to the both/and thinkingThe benefits of being comfortable with the discomfort of learning something newABOUT MY GUEST:Wendy Smith is the co-author of “Both/And Thinking: Embracing Creative Tensions to Solve Your Toughest Problems,” an award-winning psychologist and professor at the Lerner College of Business and Economics at the University of Delaware. She's spent her career studying paradoxes in leadership and on a mission to help individuals and organizations turn problems into possibilities. Wendy's passion lies in helping leaders tackle the complex challenges of interpersonal dynamics, team performance, organizational change, and innovation to transform their organizations and the world.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/35Connect with Wendy Smith: linkedin.com/in/wendykimsmithWendy's book: bothandthinking.netCheck out my website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS: 02:12 Misconception of both/and meaning02:44 And/and vs. both/and06:49 Balancing the roles of expert and coach 07:03 Balancing long-term innovation with immediate business needs08:06 3-step process of dealing with dilemma09:50 Expanding on and/and vs both/and12:03 How to approach paradoxical choices15:23 3 patterns of risk when you don't shift to both/and thinking20:15 Getting comfortable with discomfort22:03 Embracing both/and mindset creates growth mindset24:36 Bringing both/and thinking to your personal life25:50 Both/and thinking at the organizational level27:44 Integrating technical process improvement with people development29:35 Enabling both/and thinking at the organizational level Enter to win a copy of Wendy Smith's book "Both/And Thinking" 

Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book: How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34Why do 70-90% of change initiatives fail?That's a staggering statistic. In many cases, new leadership comes in, economic pressures rise, or the next "flavor of the month" initiative takes over. What's happening and what can you do to counteract this trend?And if you are a change leader, lean practitioner, or continuous improvement coach, how do you avoid this becoming a career limiting move?To help us answer this, I invited Michael Bungay Stanier, leadership expert and bestselling author of six books, including The Coaching Habit and How to Work with (Almost) Anyone, to share his insights on leading personal and organizational change. Success in leading change comes not only from making structural shifts, but also from fostering curiosity and building strong human relationships.It's time to shift the failure rate to a success rate for your vision. Focus your energy on amplifying your influence and getting the buy-in needed from key people to create meaningful transformation.YOU'LL LEARN: How to reverse the trend of failed change initiativesWhat to do when others don't align with your vision for changeHow to create agency in the people you want to influenceTips on how to stay curious longer to make a strong impactThe importance of linking process improvement and people for lasting changeABOUT MY GUEST:Michael Bungay Stanier is at the forefront of shaping how organizations and leaders around the world succeed through focusing on curiosity and human relationships. He's the author of six books, which between them have sold more than a million copies, and is best known for The Coaching Habit, the best-selling coaching book of this century.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/34Connect with Michael Bungay Stanier: linkedin.com/in/michaelbungaystanier Check out my website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonSign up for Michael's newsletter and podcasts: MBS.worksDownload my FREE KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment : kbjanderson.com/katalyst TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 01:04 Reasons why change initiatives fail 04:56 Two foundational challenges for leading change07:38 The link between process improvement and integrating the people component13:23 Two strategies to stay curious longer and create lasting impact16:26 Tips to reverse the trend of failed change initiatives 20:20 Steps to embrace your influence and create the impact you want when leading change 22:31 Defining A and B list relationships24:04 Improving the quality of working relationships24:45 How to build BPR (best possible relationships) and keystone conversations to discuss how to best work together before diving into the work26:13 Addressing challenging conversations to clarify roles and expectations upfront29:55 One way to increase influence and build human connection for impactful conversations31:11 Michael's new project in launching a new podcast Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book:How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34

What questions are on your mind? That's the question I posed to you last month when I asked you to “Ask me anything!”I received many great questions and, as promised, I've picked five to dive into during this episode. Asking the right questions is a fundamental part of leading transformational change. It's not just about finding answers—it's about understanding why we ask our questions and how we react when others ask us.It's just as important to know the reasons behind why we're asking. What's the intention behind the question? What are we hoping to learn or uncover? This is where true understanding happens—both for the person asking and the one being asked.So the next time someone asks you a question, take a moment to ask a follow-up question. You both might be surprised with the answer!Now, it's time to dive into your questions!YOU'LL LEARN:How to shift from a “command and control” leadership style to a culture focused on continuous improvementCommon obstacles organizations face when implementing transformational change and how to overcome themHow you can effectively balance the need for short-term results with the pursuit of long-term strategic goals while developing peopleInsights on transitioning from a lean leader in an organization to starting a consultancy businessHow continuous improvement teams can amplify their impact and link leadership coaching to driving real business outcomes What additional questions are on your mind? Head over to ChainOfLearning.com/ASK and ask me your questions so we can continue to explore them in future episodes of Chain of Learning.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/33Check out my website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonDownload the KATALYST™ self-assessment to fast-track your leadership impact: kbjanderson.com/Katalyst Download the free guide "3 Tips to Break The Telling Habit®” and discover how you can start asking better questions: kbjanderson.com/telling-habitBe the first to know about new episodes and other resources: kbjanderson.com/newsletterAsk your questions for future episodes: ChainOfLearning.com/Ask TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 0:39 How asking questions can spark a culture of continuous learning and improvement2:04 The impact of leaders defaulting to immediately answering questions4:28 QUESTION 1 : Moving from command and control to continuous improvement09:06 QUESTION 2 overcoming obstacles to transformational change16:14 QUESTION 3: How to balance short-term results with long-term goals while developing people19:00 QUESTION 4: Insights on transitioning from a corporate leader to starting a consultancy business30:35 QUESTION 5: How a continuous improvement team within an organization increase and demonstrate impact

Is your organization stuck in a constant state of crisis, where everything feels like an urgent, must-fix-now situation?As a leader, cutting through that noise is key to prioritizing and aligning your team's efforts to focus on what really matters.In this episode, Isaac Mitchell, VP of Operational Excellence at Ballad Health System, shares his experience leading through Hurricane Helene and how he's fostering an organizational culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.Isaac shares how his leadership journey—from engineer at Toyota to executive in healthcare—shaped his approach to real crises. He discusses how understanding purpose—his own, his team's, and the organization's—helps him distinguish between what's urgent and what's truly important.By focusing on what matters, you can create the impact you're striving for. To me, that's what living with intention is—knowing your purpose and aligning your actions to make it happen.YOU'LL LEARN:How to distinguish between true crises and perceived urgencyThe importance of aligning organizational and personal purpose to drive strategic successA framework for where to spend your time as a leader to build a high-performing organizationHow to demonstrate respect for people by encouraging a personal understanding of purpose and owning the thinking process, not the answersPractical tips for building a people-centered culture that drives sustainable growthIn our conversation about intention and goals, Isaac asks about my next big goal—listen for the big reveal, never shared publicly until now! I'd love to hear your thoughts.ABOUT MY GUEST:Isaac Mitchell is an experienced strategy deployment executive and is currently a Vice President at Ballad Health and a guest lecturer at the University of Tennessee's Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/32Connect with Isaac Mitchell: linkedin.com/in/isaacmitchellJoin Isaac's Book Clubs: Lean Book Club and Lean Coffee Club Check out my website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonJoin me on my Japan Study Trip leadership program: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripLearn about the warp and weft metaphor in my book: Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn and companion workbookTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 3:08 Navigating crises during Hurricane Helene through community and shared purpose9:00 True crises vs. perceived urgency 10:58 Avoid falling into the "expert trap" during crises14:10 Respecting people's development and using Gemba16:19 How to use daruma dolls in goal setting20:57 Katie's BIG new goal reveal22:25 Using a hanko when coaching for  problem solving30:36 Isaac's North Star for the year and Japan Study Trip lessons32:11 How Gemba helps leaders prioritize what's essential36:23 Setting big goals and using them to push for growth 41:34 Value of cultural and business learning45:54 The warp and weft metaphor for goal settingSpaces still available for the May 2025 Japan Study Trip - apply now!

Apply for the MAY2025 Japan Study Trip here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/Upcoming 'Ask Katie Anything' EpisodeSubmit your question here: https://kbjanderson.com/askIt's Chain of Learning's first anniversary this month! And it's the time of year for gratitude and thanks – and for reflection. Thank you for listening and for being part of this Chain of Learning that we are growing together. To mark this podcast milestone, I want to practice what I talk about on nearly every episode – reflection – as I believe it IS the foundation of learning and impact.In this episode, I share my reflections from the Chain of Learning's first year and walk  you through the process I use and teach for reflection – so you can apply this same reflection process to whatever you are working on, both professionally and personally. Whether you're leading teams, fostering innovation, or driving continuous improvement – or simply looking to take the next step forward in your life – purposeful reflection is the foundation for your ultimate success.YOU'LL LEARN:The meaning of the Japanese word Hansei – self-reflection – and the risk if you get caught more in doing and don't take time to reflect How you can use the Plan-Do-Study-Adjust (PDSA) cycle to improve and why I suggest we call it the Study-Adjust-Plan-Do (SAPD) cycleThe 3 ways to reflect with intention even while short on timeThe backstory to how this podcast started and personal reflections of what I've learned and adjusted over producing 31 episodesThe questions to ask yourself for meaningful reflectionI invite you to embed reflection into your practice — not just as a one-time exercise but as a regular habit – that guides you toward excellence. Thanks for the opportunity to grow and strengthen our Chain of Learning together. Here's to the journey of growth and another year of reflections ahead!IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes and links: ChainOfLearning.com/31Comment and share your process for reflection on LinkedIn hereCheck out my website: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonGet my book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” – LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 2:37 The meaning of the Japanese word Hansei 4:11 The 5 steps to applying Hansei and using the (SAPD) cycle5:28 Reflection Process 1: immediate self reflection after an event, even if you're short on time6:27 Reflection Process 2: reflect with others or in a group setting to get feedback and share ideas8:05 Reflection Process 3: reflect over time by looking back9:38 Backstory of how the Chain of Learning podcast started12:37 Process launching the podcast and the challenges and lessons learned18:53 Personal growth and what I have learned over time since starting the podcast31:47 Questions to ask yourself to add reflection in your daily, monthly and yearly process31:35 Share your process for reflection on LinkedIn or via email Apply for the MAY2025 Japan Study Trip here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/Upcoming 'Ask Katie Anything' EpisodeSubmit your question here: https://kbjanderson.com/ask

Apply to May 2025 Japan Study Trip:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/Upcoming 'Ask Me Anything' EpisodeSubmit your questions: https://chainoflearning.com/askHas your organization been making progress on its continuous improvement journey, only to find things starting to stall?Is your team hesitant to share ideas, or are your lean or process improvement initiatives viewed mainly as cost-cutting measures rather than a comprehensive strategy for long-term success?Perhaps you've been focusing on just one side of the path of excellence—improvement processes and tools—while overlooking a critical component: respect for people.In this episode, Stephanie Bursek, Director of Human Resources at TrippNT, shares how her company's made a leap forward in their lean transformation by leading with the heart to focus on people and joy.By going beyond process improvement tools to deeply focusing on people first, Stephanie and her executive team have fostered greater collaboration, trust, and growth, resulting in a thriving, engaged workplace with more problem-solving and innovation.Tune in to learn how embedding respect for people into your organization's foundation can drive sustainable cultural transformation and elevate both business results and employee engagement.YOU'LL LEARN:How to create balance in your organization between the pillars of continuous improvement and respect for peopleThe importance of navigating tension between getting results and allowing time for your team to grow on the path towards achieving themWhy performance management should be a two-way street that includes upward feedback for continuous learning and alignmentHow embedding respect for people and psychological safety into your organization can lead to improved results and enhance employee experiencesThe benefits of a people-centered culture for elevating both fulfillment and performanceABOUT MY GUEST:Stephanie is a seasoned Human Resources executive with a passion for how to create a thriving organizational culture. As the Director for Human Resources at TrippNT, a family-owned manufacturing company based in the U.S., she's focused on building a unique organizational culture by uniting the pillars of continuous improvement and respect for people.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/30Connect with Stephanie Bursek: www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-bursek-sphr-0a7b801Check out my website: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonMy Japan Study Trip leadership program: KBJAnderson.com/japantripTIMESTAMPS: 04:35 Stephanie's realization of the missing element in her organization08:10 The importance of a people-first approach to achieve results & improvements12:11 The impact of the Collaborative Model for increasing productivity14:15 The benefits of a psychologically safe environment that fosters respect & leads to better business results19:03 The provocative quote from “Tree Ring Management” that always get jaw drops20:27 How the leadership team at TrippNT models behavior that creates an engaging environment24:10 Examples of a people-entered environment created through humility & resilience Apply for the May 2025 Japan Study Trip here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/Upcoming 'Ask Me Anything' EpisodeSubmit your questions here: https://chainoflearning.com/ask

What hot topics and burning questions are on your mind?Asking better questions is one of the core subjects I talk about on the podcast – and in my work, and I want to hear from you!“Ask me anything” is going to be the focus of the last Chain of Learning episode for 2024. So go ahead and send me your questions through the month of November: ChainOfLearning.com/ASK What challenges are you facing in your leadership journey as you strive to make a greater impact?Are you looking to secure buy-in from your team or upper management? Perhaps you're aiming to break the “telling” habit and foster a more collaborative environment? Or maybe you're feeling overwhelmed and need strategies to transition from a doer to a change Katalyst™?Anything is on the table. So go ahead and ask me anything!Submit your questions by November 30th here: ChainOfLearning.com/ASK and I'll be selecting a few of YOUR questions to feature and respond to for the last episode of the year.IMPORTANT LINKS:Submit your questions: ChainOfLearning.com/ask Check out my website: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonRELATED PODCAST EPISODES:Do you have a question in mind from something mentioned in a previous episode and how to apply it? Here are a few top questions from recent episodes:How to coach executives?: 20 | How to Coach Executives and Influence Change with Brad ToussaintHow to leverage politics effectively to get buy-in?: 14 | Becoming an Astute Political Navigator with Betsy JordynWhat is the connection between a growth mindset and continuous improvement culture?: 3 | A Growth Mindset is the Foundation of a Continuous Improvement Culture with Carol Dweck

Enter for a chance to win a signed copy of Atif Raqiq's book "Decision Sprint:" ChainOfLearning.com/29Do you ever feel like you're stuck between chaos and bureaucracy, unable to break free from the status quo?You are probably facing a common challenge that other leaders and change practitioners experience: how to navigate uncertainty while trying to drive innovation and agility in your organization.In this episode, Atif Rafiq, seasoned C-suite executive and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of “Decision Sprint” shares what he's learned about leading through ambiguity to drive digital and cultural transformations at global companies like Amazon, McDonald's, and MGM Resorts.Atif breaks down the Decision Sprint framework to help you bring clarity into the unknown by moving problem-solving upstream, enabling you and your teams to make faster, smarter decisions that drive meaningful change and innovation.Uncertainty IS what most organizations are facing today. Relying on outdated leadership models and approaches to problem-solving keeps you trapped facing the same issues year after year without real progress. Tune into this episode and gain insights how you can break free from this cycle and embrace new approaches to navigate ambiguity and empower you to innovate and lead by making decisions faster, smarter, and better.YOU'LL LEARN:The difference between boring problems vs. creative problems and how to bring authentic interest to solving the “boring problems” in your organizationThe risk in relying solely on “known” solutions instead of exploring innovative ways to solve problemsWhy organizations need to start thinking more upstream rather than focusing on what's in front of themWhat the Decision Sprint Model is and how you can use it to get ahead of problems and move problem-solving upstreamThe difference between bureaucracy and chaos and how to avoid being stuck between the twoABOUT MY GUEST:Atif Rafiq has reshaped industries and generated billions in revenue for some of the world's leading companies. He's CEO of Ritual and has held leadership roles in tech companies like Amazon, Yahoo!, and AOL and has held C-suite roles at multinational corporations including McDonald's, Volvo, and MGM Resorts. He is also the Wall Street bestselling author of "Decision Sprint: The new way to Innovate into the Unknown and move from Strategy into Action." Atif is passionate about helping companies push boldly into the future.  He accomplishes this through Ritual, a software app revolutionizing how teams innovate and problem-solve, and through his work as keynote speaker, board member, and CEO advisor.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/29Connect with Atif Rafiq: www.linkedin.com/in/atif1/ Order your copy of “Decision Sprint” by Atif Rafiq: www.decisionsprint.com/book  Check out my website: KBJAnderson.com/Follow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: [2:24] Atif's massive career shift and the challenge of changing the culture of a large established organization[5:51] The risk of staying in a safe zone rather than navigating through ambiguity[7:52] Boring problems versus creative problems and an example of the importance of taking interest in a “boring” problem[14:14] The Decision Sprint Model and how it helps move thinking and problem solving upstream[16:21] The role of experimentation in problem solving and the benefits of collaboration to gain insights[20:10] Concept of alignment and how it connects exploration and decision making[25:57] Difference between bureaucracy and chaos [29:11] Upstream and downstream work and creating different systems for managing both  Enter for a chance to win a signed copy of Atif Raqiq's book "Decision Sprint:" ChainOfLearning.com/29

Do you ever feel stuck as a leader? It may seem like no matter how many problems you solve or tools you implement, you're still not seeing progress toward a sustainable organizational culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.Maybe you have been leading change the wrong way.In this episode, Cindy Hinds shares what she's learned from 25 years of experience about how to lead organizational change the right way. She highlights what she has learned from her journey from being a technical expert to becoming a transformational change leader within a global organization who is equipping leaders at all levels to solve problems and innovating to drive business performance.Transformational leadership isn't about knowing all the answers. Connect with your purpose, step away from being the "doer," and empower others so that you – and they – can see better results.YOU'LL LEARN:How to implement transformational leadership practices that create lasting organizational change, not just short-term resultsThe importance of using simple terms instead of technical jargon to help get buy-in and help others understand the problems they need to solveStrategies to manage burnout by surrounding yourself with a supportive community and focusing on what truly mattersHow to bring your whole self to the workplace to fulfill your complete purpose and build trust within the organizationThe benefits of the maturity model to help leaders close the gap between their current condition and the results they want to achieveABOUT MY GUEST:Cindy Hinds is the Global Director of Enterprise Excellence at A.O. Smith, manufacturing company with sites based across North America, Asia and Europe, where she is responsible for architecting A.O. Smith's journey to create a culture of highly engaged people who are aligned in solving problems and innovating to continuously improve.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/28Connect with Cindy Hinds: www.linkedin.com/in/cindyhindsMy website: KBJAnderson.com/Download the Change KATALYST™  Self–Assessment to discover the 8 competencies you must master to become a transformational change leader: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: [5:13] Leading the right way and asking questions for a continuous improvement culture[8:12] Finding gaps through Gemba to transform your approach as a leader[11:18] Franklin Covey's Speed of Trust Curriculum to connect behaviors to business outcomes[15:06] Using “Nemawashi” to prepare for future actions or business decisions[18:30] Focusing on a people-centric culture to avoid conflicting values[21:16] Real-life examples of implementing sustainable practices for continuous improvement[24:31] The maturity model to understand your current condition and ideal state

Ever felt like your meetings or workshops aren't moving the needle? How would you like to facilitate your next work session with confidence and ensure that your leaders are leaving motivated, aligned, and action-oriented?Whether you're a continuous improvement practitioner, consultant, manager, or executive—facilitation is a crucial skill to master to become a transformational change leader. It's the key to how you influence teams to shift behaviors, make impactful decisions, and drive meaningful results for the organization. But great facilitation doesn't happen by accident.In this episode, we dive in behind the scenes to uncover the three key facilitation practices you must master to become a skillful facilitator, and some mistakes that you can avoid, so that you can ensure greater impact and make it easy for the team to get the results they need.Whether you're working with senior leaders or your own teams, becoming a skillful facilitator is key to becoming the go-to person for driving success. It's not just a valuable skill—it's the foundation for establishing your credibility and ensuring that your team is engaged, aligned, and empowered to make informed decisions that move the organization forward.YOU'LL LEARN:Your role as a facilitator to create the process your group needs to meet the end goalHow to work with your stakeholders to define the goal of the session so that you can design an agenda to get to the right outcomes The importance of creating a structured plan while maintaining flexibility to respond to what the group needs in the momentHow to to leverage  reflection for yourself and the group before, during and after the session to create a bigger impactMistakes to avoid to become a master facilitatorIMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/27 Work with me: KBJAnderson.com Change KATALYST™  Self–Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson RELATED PODCAST EPISODES:Episode 9: The 8 Essential Skills to Become a Transformational Change Katalyst™TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: [3:40] Understand your role as a facilitator  [6:23] The importance of knowing the goal of the session before starting, whether it's a workshop, leadership retreat, or a team meeting[13:06] Learn how to create structure with flexibility by making real-time decisions to adjust based on the group's needs[18:01] Three ways to build reflection before, during, and after each session to ensure the impact of your session[22:09] How to reflect with key stakeholders and yourself to grow your skills as a facilitator

Register now to take advantage of the Japan Study Trip early registration special. Ends September 30th! KBJAnderson.com/JapanTrip/Want to inspire action in your presentations and transform your message from boring to unforgettable?The secret: it's not data and facts that create impact — it's your stories.As humans, we're wired to remember and respond to stories because they connect with our emotions and drive our decisions.Storytelling is more than just a trending term; it's the fundamental way to connect with your audience on a deeper level and how you actually ignite change.In this episode, Carol Cox and I explore how to harness storytelling to not just share information, but to truly resonate. Regardless if you're a keynote speaker presenting to a large audience or a leader speaking to your team, discover frameworks and insights on how you can turn simple anecdotes into powerful narratives that captivate, motivate, and inspire.YOU'LL LEARN:Why our brains are more tuned to stories than factsThe difference between just sharing information and truly motivating actionHow to avoid the “expert trap” and connect on a human levelTwo practical frameworks to craft compelling storiesReal–life examples of powerful storytelling in actionIf you are a change leader looking to do more than just share information and genuinely drive action, you won't want to miss this episode.ABOUT MY GUEST:Carol Cox is the founder and CEO of Speaking Your Brand®, a coaching and training company that works with purpose–driven professionals to enhance their thought leadership so they can tell the stories that need to be told and activate ideas for change.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/26Connect with Carol Cox: www.linkedin.com/in/carolcox Carol Cox's Website: www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Work with me: KBJAnderson.com Change KATALYST™  Self–Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson TIMESTAMPS: 00:44 The importance of storytelling in making a lasting impact for both business and individual leaders04:48 How to avoid "expert trap" where leaders rely too heavily on data and information10:55 The difference between sharing an anecdote and creating an emotionally compelling story12:30 How the  “Challenge, Choice, Outcome” framework can help you identify and shape your experiences into stories12:38 IDEAL framework to enhance your storytelling and applying it effectively in various settings30:12 Categories that can help you identify impactful stories to create your story bank35:58 Practical tips to make your presentations more engaging and memorable Register now to take advantage of the Japan Study Trip early registration special. Ends September 30th! KBJAnderson.com/JapanTrip/

Register now to take advantage of the Japan Study Trip early registration special. Ends September 30th! KBJAnderson.com/JapanTrip/Do you and your leadership team feel burdened by solving all the problems that get in the way of achieving the results your organization needs?You're not alone. This is the crux of the leadership challenge: transitioning from being the primary problem-solver to a transformational leader who creates the conditions for their people to achieve results. This requires a shift in mindset and a shift in behavior, and leaders must be serious about both.So, what does it take—especially as a senior leader—to truly create a culture of continuous improvement?To explore the journey to becoming a more serious leader, one striving to create a high performing organization in today's complex work environments, I invited two senior healthcare executives to the podcast. Drs. Kecia Kelly, SVP & Chief Nursing Officer, and Amy Chaumeton, Associate Chief Medical Officer at Legacy Health share the changes they're making in their leadership approach, including how they're creating alignment around mission and purpose, nurturing their teams' problem-solving capabilities, and fostering joy and human connection in the workplace. (Plus, you'll hear how my Japan Study Trip leadership program has accelerated their leadership growth through a shared learning experience and purposeful reflection, and the positive effects these shifts are having on their teams and organizational outcomes.)Whether you're an executive, operational leader, or coach guiding leaders to success, you won't want to miss this episode. Tune in to discover how to transform your leadership and empower your teams to create a culture of excellence.YOU'LL LEARN:What it means to be a “serious” leaderWhy developing yourself goes beyond education and certifications to putting into practice the actions to understand and support the work of your teamHow to overcome burnout in the workplace by creating a more joyful people-centered work environmentThe leadership impact of unburdening yourself from solving all your organizations' problems by developing your teams' capabilities for getting results and sustainable improvements.The value of collective reflection among senior leaders to achieve alignment and clarity in organizational goalsIMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/25My book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” - LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comConnect with Amy Chaumeton: linkedin.com/in/amy-chaumetonConnect with Kecia Kelly: linkedin.com/in/kecia-kelly-facheFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about my Japan Study Trip leadership program: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripTIMESTAMPS:05:01 Challenges Amy & Kecia's faced at Legacy Health and healthcare08:51 Kecia & Amy's approach to leading differently at Legacy Health 12:54 Amy's “aha” moment on the Japan study trip and how it's impacted her leadership16:04 How Kecia now supports problem-solving within her team16:40 How to create sustained improvement22:49 How to be a “serious leader”26:09 The significance of alignment and having a clear mission across the organization28:14 The importance of leading with intention and respect for people35:09 Behavior shifts in becoming a serious leader44:58 The value of going on the Japan Study Trip as an executive leadership cohort Register now to take advantage of the Japan Study Trip early registration special. Ends September 30th! KBJAnderson.com/JapanTrip/

For more info and to apply for the Japan Study Trip: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTrip/To enter for a chance to win John Willis' book "Deming's Journey to Profound Knowledge:" ChainOfLearning.com/24If you're passionate about continuous improvement, quality, or operational excellence, chances are Dr. W. Edwards Deming has shaped your journey—even if you haven't realized it yet.But do you know how this influence came about and the profound impact Deming's management theories have had on shaping quality and improvement approaches such as Lean, Agile, and DevOps?I've invited John Willis, author of "Deming's Journey to Profound Knowledge," to today's episode to explore Deming's learning journey to become the father of the quality movement and how he influenced the development of the Toyota Production System and Japan's rebirth following World War II.We discuss Deming's pioneering management teachings and how you can apply his System of Profound Knowledge to solve problems in today's complex work environments.We also explore the four lenses of the System of Profound Knowledge—appreciation for a system, understanding variation, theory of knowledge, and psychology—and how integrating these concepts can elevate your approach to leadership and improvement.Tune in to discover how you can apply these management theories to solve the complex problems within your organization today.YOU'LL LEARN: The fundamental essence of leadership and how connecting people with purpose can drive organizational success.The significance of Deming's System of Profound Knowledge and the integration of its four components.How experiencing lean principles in action differs from theoretical knowledge and why it's critical for effective change leadership.The role of psychological safety in fostering an environment where everyone's input is valued.Insights on how Deming's principles apply to contemporary challenges, such as generative AI, emphasizing the importance of operational definitions and probability in managing complex systems.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/24John's book “Deming's Journey to Profound Knowledge” - hereGet thebook “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn”  LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comConnect with John Willis: linkedin.com/in/johnwillisatlantaFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about the Japan Study Trip leadership program: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripTIMESTAMPS:[00:00] An introduction to today's guest and author of "Deming's Journey to Profound Knowledge," John Willis[05:04] Dr. Deming's concept of profound knowledge[05:43] The four elements to understand complexity [12:23] How the Toyota Way pillar of Continuous Improvement = Wisdom and Kaizen [20:13] The impact of a collaborative culture [24:03] Deming's people-centered leadership approach [28:56] John's key takeaways a year after joining my executive Japan Study Trip leadership program[41:39] John's advice on applying Deming's principles today and the development of GenAI For more info and to apply for the Japan Study Trip: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTrip/To enter for a chance to win John Willis' book "Deming's Journey to Profound Knowledge:" ChainOfLearning.com/24

For your 40% discount to the Lean Solutions Summit use code #KatieAnderson at checkout: LeanSolutionsSummit.comTo enter for a chance to win Billy Ray Taylor's book "The Winning Link:" ChainOfLearning.com/23What does “winning” mean to you as a leader? And what is your leadership role  in creating a winning strategy and organizational culture?According to Billy Ray Taylor, CEO and President at LinkedXL and former Goodyear Tire executive, winning is not only about setting a clear strategy and aligning on the goals and metrics, but engaging your team members and defining the actions to get there.  Billy and I recorded this episode back in 2022, just as his book “The Winning Link: A Proven Process to Define, Align, and Execute Strategy at Every Level” was about to be released – and I wanted to bring the conversation here for you to learn from Billy's wisdom and insights about the humanity of leadership and how to win.  In this conversation you'll hear stories from Billy's leadership at Goodyear, highlights from his book, the importance of DEI in building a winning culture, and Billy's greatest challenge – and greatest learning – as a leader.Remember, the winning link in your organization is your people, and it's the connection of links of people together that creates and grows our Chain of Learning.YOU'LL LEARN: How to define and align your strategy and goals to ensure organizational success by focusing on clear standards and processes.The importance of not just making metrics visible – but “making people visible” –  by acknowledging their contributions is crucial for fostering a culture of psychological safety and engagement.The significance of servant leadership in valuing individuals' thoughts and experiences, regardless of their position within the organization.The difference between key performance actions (KPAs) and key performance indicators (KPIs) and how to leverage them to achieve significant performance improvements.Actionable advice on creating common meaning through language and connecting with your team, based on real-life examples and practices.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/23Get Billy's book “The Winning Link” - hereGet the book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” – available in paperback, hardbound, audiobook, and ebook - LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonFollow Billy on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billyrtaylorDownload the KATALYST Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystTIMESTAMPS:[00:00] The importance of value and respect in leadership [03:07] Helpful practices that have shaped Billy's leadership approach [06:59] The power of embracing who you are as a leader[09:38] How to connect an entire organization (“LinkedXL”)[11:25] What “winning” really means according to Billy[13:54] The link between KPAs and KPIs[18:02] The importance of DEI and inclusion[23:45] The power of trust within large organizations [26:44] Billy's learnings from his book[31:22] Billy's greatest challenge as a leader For your 40% discount to the Lean Solutions Summit use code #KatieAnderson at checkout: LeanSolutionsSummit.comTo enter for a chance to win Billy Ray Taylor's book "The Winning Link:" ChainOfLearning.com/23

Have you ever paused to reflect on the critical moments of your life and realized their impact on your own trajectory and others' lives?In this special episode of Chain of Learning, I welcome back Isao Yoshino as we celebrate our decade-long partnership and the anniversary of our book "Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn." Together, we discuss the power of hansei—reflection—as the cornerstone of learning and wisdom.We reflect on the journey of writing the book, the strength of our partnership, and the importance of asking the right questions. Mr. Yoshino shares how he continues to learn and grow from the book's lessons while uncovering the profound impact of reflection on his personal and professional development.Join us as we explore practical ways to develop the habit of reflection, empowering you to gain new perspectives and insights.Because remember, reflection is the crucial link in your chain of learning, guiding you toward continuous improvement and deeper wisdom.YOU'LL LEARN: How reflection (hansei) is crucial for effective leadership and continuous improvement. Reflecting on both good and bad experiences leads to new insights and better decision-making.How failures can serve as powerful learning opportunities, and the significance of fostering a culture that embraces mistakes for deeper understanding and innovation.Mr. Yoshino emphasizes that true learning happens through continuous reflection. How "Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn" is not meant to be read just once; it is a resource for ongoing reflection and deep learning.The importance of a personal reflection process and how it can significantly contribute to one's leadership and personal growth journey.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/22Get the book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” – available in paperback, hardbound, audiobook, and ebook - LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about my Japan Study Trip leadership program: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripTIMESTAMPS:[00:00] Introduction to the power of reflection, or hansei, with guest Isao Yoshino[03:12] Overview of the concept of hansei – reflection – why it's important and how it influenced the writing of Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn[09:24] The importance of having an attitude toward learning [14:06] Mr. Yoshino's definition of powerful and hat makes Learning to Lead Leading to Learn powerful [23:46] Mr. Yoshino's learnings based on his new perspective [28:59] The importance of asking open questions and hearing other people's challenges and struggles [30:00] A framework to help you practice reflection[34:51] How one plus one equals more than two

Today's guest, Isao Yoshino, a 40-year Toyota leader, has influenced thousands of leaders worldwide and inspired my book, "Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn."Join us as we celebrate two anniversaries: our first meeting in July 2014 and the four-year anniversary of our book. In Part 1 of our conversation, Mr. Yoshino shares his insights on leadership, learning, and the Chain of Learning® concept.We'll discuss lessons from successes and failures, the strength of connections, and people-oriented leadership. Whether you're looking to implement these practices with your team or find inspiration for your leadership journey, this episode is full of actionable insights from one of the wisest and most caring leaders I know.YOU'LL LEARN: The importance of seriousness in demonstrating your commitment to your people, developing a strong organizational culture, and modeling the way.How establishing patience as a foundational attitude is essential to your leadership effectiveness and organizational success.Strategies for fostering personal and professional growth by learning from both successes and failures.Practical advice on translating Toyota's practices into your leadership approach, emphasizing commitment, patience, and continuous learning.Insights into Toyota's people-centered learning culture and how you can foster this culture in your organization.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/21Get the book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” – available in paperback, hardbound, audiobook, and ebook - LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about my Japan Study Trip leadership development program: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripTIMESTAMPS:[00:00] Introduction to Chain of Learning with guest Isao Yoshino[05:17] What ‘Chain of Learning' means to Mr. Yoshino [11:25] The importance of leaders asking questions [15:37] What Mr. Yoshino has learned about leadership[17:51] Why ‘seriousness' is so vital [21:46] Combining seriousness with patience [27:24] The power of working at Toyota [33:25] Mr. Yoshino's advice to himself and you[35:45] Katie's key takeaways from the conversation

Have you ever received blank stares from leaders when you've advocated that they adopt an improvement method or tool you know will help them? Perhaps the problem is not your idea but rather that you aren't communicating in a way that connects these concepts with the business outcomes they need or in language that they understand.One hurdle that can hinder your effectiveness in influencing executives is the very thing that makes you valuable in your position and as a passionate continuous improvement leader  –  your technical expertise and problem-solving ability.That's why, in this episode, Brad Toussaint and I explore the importance of communicating in ways that resonate with senior leaders about the outcomes and business results they need. We then discussed how to coach leaders to develop the behaviors, practices, and systems that will lead to those results.   We also discuss the critical shift you need to make from being the doer of improvements to becoming a coach to executives to enable them to be serious about what it takes to lead change and their essential role in setting direction and creating the conditions for people to be successful.   Being an effective change leader and coach isn't just about having technical know-how—it's about explaining all the methods, tools, and behaviors in a way that business leaders and executives can understand and then apply.YOU'LL LEARN: How transitioning from a 'doer' of improvements to a coach and enabler of managers and executives can drive sustainable changeDifferent strategies for simplifying complex principles, making them accessible and actionable for leadersThree important things to include when communicating to leaders: the reason for change, expected results, and methods The importance of observation and reflection in driving learning forward and the challenge of integrating them into practiceHow to help leaders demonstrate they are serious about leading change Tune in now to learn more about leadership, change management, and the importance of speaking in a language that resonates to align, influence, and coach leaders – so that you can propel sustainable change and get needed results. IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/20Connect with Brad Toussaint on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/brad-toussaintWork with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™  Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about my Japan Study Trip leadership development program: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripTIMESTAMPS:[00:00] How to improve as a change leader[03:38] How Brad coaches executives and leads change [09:42] How to speak in a way that connects you to your leaders[10:34] Using language as a force for leadership[13:52] Simplifying terms and topics [23:27] Management should focus on process and people[28:20] Reflection time is valuable for busy leaders[33:35] Why leaders should deeply understand their role and their people[39:00] Why leaders must pull, not just push change[40:35] Three important characteristics you need to lead change

To enter for a chance to win 1 of 5 copies of Derek Robert's Book "Listen to Sell" click here: http://chainoflearning.com/19Are you struggling to get your senior team on board with your vision for change, to get buy-in for a new initiative, or to get leaders to sign on to your services as a coach or consultant?Good news.Leading through influence and persuasion can make this happen.In this episode, Derek Roberts and I explore the art and science of persuasion in the context of leadership. We discuss his new book, “Listen to Sell: How Your Mindset, Skillset, and Human Connections Unlock Sales Performance,” and the essential skills of selling ideas and gaining buy-in, which are crucial for any continuous improvement leader.If we work with other humans, we are all in sales and lead change. That's why mastering the power of persuasion to help others adopt new ways of thinking and working is essential to your success, career growth, and impact.Derek's expertise highlights how to navigate these interactions effectively, ensuring you're heard, understood, and able to inspire action.If you want to become a more influential change leader who identifies and bridges gaps through strategic communication, this episode is for you.YOU'LL LEARN: How asking  compelling questions and listening helps you  influence decisions and lead change effectivelyStrategies for coaching executives to engage actively in change initiatives, highlighting the difference between persuasion and manipulationThe importance of preparation in getting buy-in includes understanding your audience, conducting thorough research, and developing situational awareness Techniques to adapt your communication style to match different behavioral types—talkers, controllers, doers, and supporters—to enhance your effectiveness in selling ideas and facilitating organizational changeHow to employ Integrity Solution's Congruence Model to ensure personal and professional alignment with one's purpose, abilities, values, commitments, and beliefs Tune in now to enhance your leadership and get buy-in by mastering the power of persuasion.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/19Connect with Derek on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/derekroberts1/Book: “Listen to Sell”:amazon.com/Listen-Sell-Skillset-Connections-Performance/dp/1774583763Work with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™  Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS:[00:00] An introduction to Derek Roberts [04:09] Sharing a vision and getting buy-in[08:40]Discussion about Derek's book and the training programs he offers through Integrity Solutions[11:18] The distinction between asking logical vs. emotional questions[17:19] The tension between being persuasive and avoiding manipulation[20:12] The power of truly listening[23:01] Different behavioral styles and their influence on the buying experience[32:15] The five areas of the congruence model relevant to sales and leadership roles[37:50] Derek's journey in being more engaged and curious [42:41] The impact of concentrating your energy on preparation  To enter for a chance to win 1 of 5 copies of Derek Robert's Book "Listen to Sell" click here: http://chainoflearning.com/19

For more info and to register for Katie's Japan Study - Click here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/What do you think of when you hear the word “kaizen”? An event? A process that you are working on improving? Something else? The Japanese word “kaizen” is usually translated to mean “continuous improvement.” But there is a deeper meaning. It's actually the lynchpin to creating a real culture of continuous improvement. In this episode, I unpack the essence of kaizen, not only as a method for process improvement but also as a personal and organizational mindset for pursuing excellence.Inspired by my recent keynote at the Shingo Institute conference and insights from studying Japanese and leading my Japan Study Trips, I explore how “kaizen” goes deeper than mere process improvement. It's about cultivating an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute to change.You'll also hear the connection between Devo's song “Whip It” and the word “kaizen” – and how you can both “whip it bad” and “whip it good” when it comes to continuous improvement. YOU'LL LEARN: How kaizen represents the discipline to continuously pursue positive change within yourself and in your organizationKey strategies for identifying and correcting misalignments between your intentions and actions so that you can create a culture where continuous improvement is practiced by everyoneHow you can shift from being the primary problem-solver to an enabler who cultivates the skills necessary for overcoming challengesEffective ways to embed the principles of kaizen into personal leadership habits, enhancing your impact as a leader or coach and setting an example for others to followInsights into how you can use a scientific problem-solving method for personal improvement as well as problem-solving Tune into this episode to discover how – “when a problem comes along”  – you and your team can all “whip it” to solve problems at all levels and create an enduring culture of improvement. And I bet you'll be singing this song for weeks! IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/18Learn more about my executive Japan Study Trips: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripRead the “paint story” in my Shingo-award-winning book LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comTake the Change KATALYST™  Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS:[00:00] Understanding the true meaning of Kaizen[03:44] Psychological safety and leaders' responses to mistakes are key for an operational excellence culture[08:54] The real meaning of Kaizen is about self-discipline, continuous improvement, and making change for the greater good[11:21] Creating an organization filled with problem solvers with Larry Culp[17:46] How intention is about aligning behavior with impact and purpose[19:33] How to use Plan-Do-Study-Adjust (PDCA) or Study-Adjust-Plan-Do (SAPD) cycles for personal improvement For more info and to register for Katie's Japan Study - Click here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/

For more info and to register for Katie's Japan Study - Click here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/Does successful change always have to start from the top? How can you stop pushing change on your leaders and instead create pull from them for the organizational culture you envision?If you're leading continuous improvement internally, these questions are crucial because they address the challenge of how to cultivate a workforce of capable, engaged problem-solvers across all levels.That's why, in this episode, I welcome Pennie Saum, a Process Improvement Program Manager at the Port of Seattle, to discuss how to lead organizational transformation from the middle by engaging people's minds and hearts and bringing them along on the journey. You'll hear Pennie share how the Port's Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) program has been pivotal in creating an engine of change by developing employees across the organization. From basic foundations to a selective Lean Specialist program, leaders at all levels are being empowered to lead improvement as part of their daily work. ,Tune in to learn more about community building, inclusion, and effectively involving people in improving processes to create a vibrant culture of continuous improvement. YOU'LL LEARN: How successful change initiatives can, and sometimes should, be led from the middle of an organization rather than from the top downHow leaders and internal process improvement consultants shifting from doers to coaches allows for broader ownership of improvement initiatives across an organizationWhy belonging and community must exist within the workplace to foster an environment that nurtures  continuous improvement and engagementThe benefits of immersive learning experiences, such as study trips to Japan, which provide hands-on learning, enhance team-building, and boost collaborative skills The importance of meeting people where they are at to increase engagement and ownership of process improvement and change leadershipYou'll also hear why the Port of Seattle has invested in sending cohorts of leaders on my Japan Study Trips as a key part of its strategy to create a culture of leader-led continuous improvement and why Pennie is looking forward to joining me in Japan this November.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/17Learn more about my executive Japan Study Trip: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripWork with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™  Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonConnect with Pennie on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/penniesaum/TIMESTAMPS:[00:00] Leadership and learning unite for continuous improvement[04:32] Pennie's transition to lead lean process improvement across  different industries, from trucking to government [11:16] Methods for sharing wins and addressing frustrations[16:06] The importance of adaptability and flexibility in organizational leadership[23:16] Encouraging workplace learning and its personal impact[27:38] Leveraging middle managers to drive change[32:43] What it looks like to create a culture of bravery and transformation For more info and to register for Katie's Japan Study - Click here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/

For more info and to register for Katie's Japan Study - Click here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/Are you focusing on the right problems in your organization? More importantly, are you creating the conditions and processes to solve them effectively?In this episode, Mark Graban and I explore the importance of developing the skills of an Analytical Systems Thinker—one of the eight core competencies in my Change KATALYST™ model—to catalyze truly meaningful change.You'll gain a better understanding of how to make informed decisions and drive improvement by applying the right kind of analytics instead of reacting to your metrics' ups and downs. Mark also shares ways to think more systemically about processes across your organization.We explore why fostering an experimental culture and responding kindly to mistakes is crucial for driving organizational innovation and improvement.  If you're looking to advance as a continuous improvement change leader who leads change and creates real improvement, this is an episode you'll want to tune into now. YOU'LL LEARN: The difference between leading change and leading actual improvement How monitoring metrics and experimenting move the needle in a statistically meaningful way How to react less and lead more effectively by mastering the art of interpreting data to discern statistical signals and genuine performance shiftsWhat it takes to create psychological safety and encourage continuous organizational improvementThe importance of how leaders respond to mistakes to create a culture of learning, problem-solving, and innovationThe importance of modeling, encouraging, and rewarding candor to create a culture where mistakes and learning are embraced You'll also hear why Mark is thrilled to join Katie's Japan Study Trip this November. This is a high-value opportunity to observe lean principles in action and understand the heart and soul behind creating a culture of continuous improvement. Submit your application today to join Mark, Toyota leader Isao Yoshino, and other global change leaders on Katie's November program. Spaces are limited!IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/16Learn more about my executive Japan Study Trip: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripWork with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™  Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS:[00:00] Driving change vs. leading actual improvement[03:11] Defining characteristics of effective Analytical Systems Thinkers [05:29] The process of value stream mapping and system dynamics[07:26] The Measure of Success & advice for leaders looking to use data to inform better decision-making[14:47] The risk of wasting time & resources if you remain in a reactive state[20:14] The importance of mistakes for a culture of learning, problem-solving, and innovation[32:43]  Key takeaways from Mark's and Katie's experiences in Japan and the value of going on a Japan Study Trip[41:36] Mark's best piece of advice for other continuous improvement change leaders For more info and to register for Katie's Japan Study - Click here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/

Want to know the secret to success?It's about embracing lifelong learning, being willing to try new things and seek out information, setting intentions to get better, and embracing the failures that come with learning your way forward.I believe when we stay in learning – a learning attitude, mindset, and practice – anything is possible. Being a “learning enthusiast” is a foundational part of who I am. It's given me the courage to step out into the unknown and, ultimately, has catapulted my personal growth and leadership impact.  In this week's episode, you'll discover the 5 core attributes I believe are the heart of becoming a Lifelong Learning Enthusiast, one of the competencies in my Change KATALYST™ model, and how you can leverage them to drive your success too. So, if you're ready to revitalize your commitment to learning and enhance your personal, team, and organizational impact, you're in the right place. YOU'LL LEARN: The importance of embracing new challenges and knowledge with a learning mindsetThe power of actively seeking feedback for transformative growthHow to be intentional with what you're trying to improve and the necessary role of reflection in the learning processA framework for becoming more adaptable, adjusting what you're doing based on new knowledge and insights How to lead by example with vulnerability and clarity in purpose to create a learning culture and grow your Chain of Learning®IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode shownotes: ChainOfLearning.com/15Work with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™  Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson TIMESTAMPS:[00:00] An introduction to being a lifelong learner[1:15] Some of Katie's personal experiences as a lifelong learner[9:26] What's at risk if you don't make regular learning a priority [12:32] Step #1 - Actively embracing new experiences and knowledge[14:50 ] Step #2 - Being receptive to and proactively seeking out feedback and suggestions[17:40] Step #3 - Setting time for intentional practice and reflection[19:44] Step #4 - Adapting and addressing your approach based on new knowledge and insights [21:42] Step #5 - Modeling the way as a lifelong learning enthusiast[26:19] Katie's recommendation for the best way to stay in learning

For more info and to register for Katie's Japan Study - Click here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/What's your reaction when you hear the phrase “corporate politics”? Does it make you cringe and want to run away, or do you get curious about how to leverage them to influence outcomes?In this episode, Betsy Jordyn joins me to discuss the essential skill of how to successfully navigate organizational politics. As a long-time organizational development consultant for companies like Disney, Wyndham, and AAA, Betsy's expertise on the subject is enlightening. Throughout our conversation, you'll learn the difference between good politics and toxic environments and what's at risk if leaders don't prioritize a focus on astutely navigating those dynamics. Betsy also shares valuable details about some of the more complex organizational transformations she has led, and how she successfully maneuvered within those political landscapes. If you're looking to gain influence and effectively leverage corporate politics so that you can lead change and  step into your full leadership potential, then you won't want to miss this episode. YOU'LL LEARN:Steps to help you master the critical skill of being an Astute Political Navigator — one of the eight core Change KATALYST™ competencies to further develop your expertise as an organizational change leader A transformational framework to help executives and change leaders like you articulate your vision, integrate individual leadership voices, and align organizational goals How to effectively leverage political dynamics, avoid the trap of becoming another pair of hands, and increase your influenceThe power in politics — how to balance diverse perspectives within an organization and  differentiate between good politics and a toxic environmentThe essential roles of empathy, respect, deep listening, and function-specific language to effectively lead and manage changeIMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode shownotes: ChainOfLearning.com/14Betsy's website: www.betsyjordan.comBetsy's ‘Enough Already' podcast: https://www.betsyjordyn.com/podcasts/enough-alreadyWork with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™  Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS:[00:00] Introduction to the episode [03:43] Navigating good politics as an organizational change leader[06:16] Lessons in navigating both formal and informal political structures [11:26] How to help leaders and consultants articulate goals and bring executives on board [17:48] How to avoid the trap of being a pair of hands: influencing vs. executing [20:34] Differentiating good politics from toxic environments[26:59] The connection between Betsy's current and past roles in leading organizational change and coaching consultants for growth and impact For more info and to register for Katie's Japan Study - Click here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/

For more info and to register for Katie's Japan Study - Click here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/Have you ever had a team member look at you with frustration when you share your great ideas and suggestions with them? Or, have you ever felt like—with all the things you need to solve and do—you don't have time to ask questions? Like you're stuck putting out fires rather than nurturing, growing, and developing the people you lead?If this resonates, it's likely you have a “telling habit.” But, the good news is, you can break it—or rather—you can work at creating better habits. Because you can never actually break a habit. You just replace it with stronger ones.In this episode, you'll learn what the “telling habit” is and what you can do to not only recognize it but how you can make three simple shifts that will dramatically increase your effectiveness.Throughout my life and career, I've struggled with a “telling habit”—though at times I didn't even realize how strong it was or the negative impact it had. Breaking the Telling Habit is THE most powerful shift you can make as a leader, coach, or human being.  If you're ready to transform into a leader who can navigate the continuums between asking and telling, advocating and inquiring, being an expert and coach, this is one episode you don't want to miss. YOU'LL LEARN:What the telling habit is, how to identify it in yourself, and where it might be derailing you from your purpose and impact as a leaderSteps to ensure your enthusiasm to contribute ideas and desire to solve problems don't impede your ultimate objectives to create capability in others and get resultsHow to find—and maintain—the ideal balance between providing solutions and facilitating others' growthThe role of humble (and patient) inquiry, the power of holding space, and techniques to help you master these essential practices Three simple shifts to Break the Telling Habit® and unlock the true capabilities of your team IMPORTANT LINKS:Download the KATALYST Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystMy book: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comBreak The Telling Habit E-course/Workshop: katieanderson.podia.com/breaking-the-telling-habit-on-demandWork with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS:[3:05] - What is the “telling habit”? [5:50] - The moment that changed everything for Katie [15:05] - Holding up the mirror: understanding the impact of your telling habit[18:20] - Addressing fear, giving space, fostering capability [21:55] - How to navigate the leadership continuums between telling and asking and being an expert and coach[26:30] - 3 simple shifts to Break the Telling Habit®  For more info and to register for Katie's Japan Study - Click here:https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/

What is the difference between authentic cultures of continuous improvement versus superficial displays? In this episode, Patrick Adams shares his insights on the heart of organizational culture and transformational leadership and highlights the essential elements of a real culture of continuous improvement -- so that you can ensure that you and your organization get it right.The truth is, there are no quick fixes, “silver bullets,” or prescribed roadmaps to achieve a high-performing organization. Patrick shares how a long-term commitment and leadership behaviors are necessary to sustain cultures that foster growth, innovation, and people engagement.If you want to know how to create a real culture of continuous improvement, one where leaders embody the humility to roll up their sleeves, demonstrate respect for their people and customers, and connect everyone to a long-term vision built on purpose, this episode is for you.ABOUT MY GUEST: Patrick Adams the founder of Lean Solutions and is the best-selling author of "Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap". He's a sought-after leadership coach, consultant, and professional speaker. Patrick's insights, drawn from extensive experience working with companies of diverse industries and sizes, are driven by a philosophy of constant learning and leadership commitment—essential for building organizational excellence.YOU'LL LEARN:The key elements of an authentic continuous improvement culture, including respect for people, stable processes, leadership behaviors, and more.How quick fixes and pre-packaged roadmaps do not achieve real continuous improvement.The warning signs of a "continuous appearance" culture, including KPI instability, silos, and not understanding employee and customer value. About Patrick's experience on my Japan Study Trip and why he believes it's a pivotal experience for any lean practitioner or executive seeking to build a real culture of kaizen and lasting continuous improvement in their organization.How long-term success is built on creating value for customers, fostering a stable environment, and ensuring that improvement initiatives are aligned with the company's overarching vision and goals.Tune in now for insights and strategies to empower you with knowledge of how to lead your company toward a real, lasting culture of continuous improvement.    IMPORTANT LINKS: Follow Patrick Adams on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/patrickadamsiiLean Solutions Summit: findleansolutions.com/summit-2024 (use special discount code: #KatieAnderson)Patrick's Book: Avoiding the Continuous Appearance TrapEpisode Website: ChainOfLearning.com/12Download the KATALYST Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystJoin Katie's next Japan Study Trip: KBJanderson.com/japantripWork with Katie: KBJAnderson.comFollow Katie on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonKatie's book: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comAre you enjoying the Chain of Learning podcast? Be sure to subscribe or follow –  and to share this podcast with your friends and colleagues so we can all strengthen our Chain of Learning® – together. TIMESTAMPS:[04:18] What an authentic culture of improvement looks like[13:06] How people development, critical thinking skills, and leadership behaviors lead to company-specific results[14:52] Why committing to a long-term vision, not quick fixes, is key to building a continuous improvement culture[20:20] What makes a culture of continuous appearance[25:21] Practical tips for internal CI and lean leaders to create positive change immediately[31:18] Patrick's highlights from Katie's May 2023 Japan Study Trip 

What's your purpose as a continuous improvement leader? And how can you fulfill your potential as a transformational change leader?Tune in to my conversation with master operational excellence change leader Karen Martin to find out! Becoming a transformational change leader means balancing your technical skills to deliver results while cultivating the influence, coaching, and facilitation skills to lead change and develop people to create a high-performing organizational culture.Whether you are an operational excellence professional or a leader that has a passion for continuous improvement, this episode will inspire you to excel in both the formal role that you were hired to do and the greater potential of the role that you want to lead transformational change. From learning how to more effectively navigate the complexities of business language to influence leaders, cultivating effective coaching and facilitation skills, and becoming aware of the limiting pitfalls that can hinder your impact – this episode is a must listen. About My Guest:Karen Martin is the President and Founder of TKMG Academy and Founder of TKMG, Inc., and is an award-winning author of several books, including Clarity First and The Outstanding Organization. Her clients include Fortune 500 companies and government agencies from local to federal levels. With a master's degree in education, Karen is a mentor at heart and committed to fostering growth and nurturing potential in others to achieve lasting results and lead organizational change.You'll Learn:The difference between the purpose of your role as a continuous improvement leader and your potential to become a transformational change leaderHow to effectively transfer knowledge, tailoring approaches between reflective and directive coachingThe importance of speaking the language of the business by influencing decisions that align with your organization's goals and growthThe risk of short-term improvement events without follow-up to sustain improvement by building skill sets among the teamThe importance of having a coach or mentor to support your growthTune in now for actionable strategies and insights to equip you to step into your greater transformational leadership potential and position you to lead lasting impact in your organization.Timestamps:03:09 The purpose and potential of a transformational change leader11:53 Practical advice for accelerated discoveries16:41 Learning through facilitating, overcoming fear, organizational observations27:16 Gaps in continuous improvement cultures35:56 Internal-capability challenges among change leaders, managers, and executives37:03 Karen's example about valuing the people-development side of businessImportant Links:TKMG Academy Website: tkmgacademy.comKaren Martin's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/karenmartinopexDownload my KATALYST Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystListen to Episode 9: ChainOfLearning.com/9My book: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson

What if you had a new superpower that would unlock your leadership potential?One so simple yet will amplify your impact, open doors to the C-suite, and accelerate engagement across your organization so that you deliver more business results while realizing your vision for a people-focused learning culture?This episode unveils your superhero cape so you can unleash your leadership superpowers today to lead organizational change.Tune in to go beyond leadership theory to actual practice of how to pair your technical expertise with the power, influence, and relational skills to become a transformational change leader.My guest, Shawn Carner, describes how he moved from an operational excellence practitioner to a senior transformation leader at a global biotechnology company – and gives you real examples of how you can too. You'll Learn:The importance of a leader's purpose in Leading to Learn®: set direction, provide support, and develop yourselfThe power of daily intention setting, reflection, and journaling to unlock your leadership superpowersHow to Break the Telling Habit® and the impact of asking coaching questionsWhat Shawn learned with me on the Japan Study Trip and how he's applied lean concepts at GenentechThe value of intentional leadership behaviors to positively influence organizational cultureDive into this episode now to discover the transformative superpowers that will amplify your impact and drive success in your organization!Looking for more inspiration and actionable tips to step into your leadership impact? Be sure to subscribe and follow Chain of Learning so you never miss an episode.About my Guest:Shawn Carner, MBA, is the Director of Operational Excellence at Genentech, part of the Roche Group. An accomplished change agent with a proven ability to develop and implement business process transformations, lead people and deliver business results, Shawn has worked with Genentech since 2005. Shawn is also a talented visual communication expert, a certified ASQ Six Sigma Black Belt, and Master Scuba Instructor.  Important Links:Shawn Carner's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/carnerShawn's Website: visualgemba.com Download my KATALYST Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst My Japan Study Trips: KBJAnderson.com/japantripMy book: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTimestamps:2:40: Shawn's evolution from technical, tool-based operational excellence expert to transformational change leader5:56: Coaching “kata” and its challenges 9:28: The power of reflection and journaling15:26: Breaking the Telling Habit and the power of asking questions21:16: Shawn's leadership superpower22:54:The impact of Shawn's superpower on his team and organization33:30: The power of attending Katie's Japan Study Trip and the importance of aligning lean principles with organizational culture40:33: Shifting from operational excellence doer to transformational change leader41:55: The need for leaders to show up differently to impact culture positively43:16: The importance of intentionally building capabilities, growing people, and getting them to think

Move from Technical Expert to Influential LeaderDo you want to move beyond being a tools or process improvement project “doer” or technical expert to a transformational change leader?  Have you wanted to step into greater influence and impact in your organization?Or perhaps you're a leader seeking to create broader organizational change but don't quite know how?Leading transformational change to create a high-performing culture requires you to pair your technical expertise with social and relational skills that will enable you to catalyze change and accelerate the rate of learning in your organization.In this episode we'll explore the importance of your role as a transformational change agent and how you can step into greater impact by growing your leadership skills with my framework – the KATALYST™ model.“Katalyst” is a mix of the words “catalyst” and "kata" – it is someone who accelerates the rate of learning for organizational progress.Hit play to discover how you can step into your impact as a transformational leader and bridge the gap between where you are today and becoming an influential change Katalyst ™ in your organization. You'll Learn:The 8 leadership competencies in the KATALYST™ model  The difference between Catalyst versus “Katalyst”™The definition of “kata” as routines that support problem-solving and coaching for improvementHow to move from technical expert to influential leaderHow to get your senior team to buy into the vision for a people-centered learning organization and invest the time and effort to get thereIf you want to increase your influence and realize your vision of a thriving people-centered learning organization, you won't want to miss this episode. Tune in now!Looking for more inspiration and actionable tips to step into your leadership impact? Be sure to subscribe and follow Chain of Learning so you never miss an episode.Important Links:Episode webpage with additional resources: ChainOfLearning.com/9Download the Change KATALYST™ Self-Assessment: https://kbjanderson.com/katalyst/ My book: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson/ Timestamps:2:05: The Change KATALYST™ model3:12: Transition from a Practitioner to a Change Leader6:28: The Inspiration of “kata”7:11: The impact of implementing KATALYST™ model9:38:  K – Knowledgeable Business Expert 13:39: A – Analytical Systems Thinker18:19: T – Tactical Strategic Aligner22:11: A – Astute Political Navigator25:03: L – Lifelong Learning Enthusiast 27:42: Y – Yes-Minded Persuader 31:29: S – Skillful Facilitator 34:48: T – Transformational Coaching Leader

Have you ever wondered why some organizations consistently outperform others? And why, even when using the same tools and methodologies, some companies are able to leverage them to achieve success whereas at others they just become the flavor of the month?If you are curious about the answers, you won't want to miss this episode with Steve Spear and Gene Kim where we unpack what makes companies “great” and explore key concepts in their new book, “Wiring the Winning Organization: Liberating our Collective Greatness through Slowification, Simplification, and Amplification”. Together, we peel back the layers of organizational innovation and problem-solving to focus on the critical – and often missing elements – for high performance.Tune in to discover the role that management systems and leadership play in shaping an organization's success, and the mechanisms that enable innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration across large, complex organizations.It makes no difference what you call it  – lean, agile, DevOps –  wiring your organization to win always comes back to the principles of good leadership.If you are a leader, an operational excellence practitioner, or simply someone aspiring to create and thrive in a winning organization, this is an episode you can't afford to miss.In this episode you'll learn:What defines a winning organization and separates great organizations from “not great” onesHow to navigate from the “danger zone” to the “winning zone” The three layers of organizational problem-solving and continuous improvement The critical role of leadership and management systems in creating conditions for successThe sociotechnical mechanisms of winning organizations: slowification, simplification, and amplificationThree questions leaders should ask daily to enable a profound organizational transformationLeadership behavior shifts to be more effective in wiring your organization – and team –  to winHit play now to discover how you can build a high-performing organization and wire your organization for greatness.BONUS: Register by January 17th to win one of 15 signed copies of Wiring the Winning Organization. Details here:  http://chainoflearning.com/8About my guests:Steve Spear is a senior lecturer at the MIT Sloan School of Management and is a renowned thought leader in the field of organizational excellence and high-performance organizations. Gene Kim is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author and former CTO of TripWire, specializing in improving software development and IT management for high-performing technology organizations.Links:Episode webpage and book giveaway registration: https://chainoflearning.com/8Book “Wiring the Winning Organization”: https://itrevolution.com/product/wiring-the-winning-organization/Connect with Steve on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevespear/ Connect with Gene on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realgenekim/ My Book: Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn: https://kbjanderson.com/learning-to-lead/ Connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson/Work with me: https://kbjanderson.com/Timestamps 01:30 Introduction of Steve Spear and Gene Kim03:41 Definition of a winning organization04:02 Understanding what high-performance is06:10 Disparities in organizational performance and the role of management systems07:53 Common mechanisms of performance 09:55 The three layers10:06 Social circuitry11:13 Capability and competency13:50  The socio part of the sociotechnical system14:05 Mr. Yoshino's paint mistake story15:49 Paul O'Neill's three critical questions for leaders18:50 The role of leaders in creating conditions that enable individuals to succeed19:07 How to move from the danger zone to the winning zone19:17 Slowification, simplification, and amplification21:29  Culture of learning and improvement through social circuitry25:30 How slowfication helps winning organizations30:24 The performance paradox and learning zones31:17 The importance of simulating disasters 33:03 Misuse of terminology and principles i.e., “lean”35:12 Interrelationship between management practices37:18 Lessons learned from the writing and collaboration process43:09 Steve and Gene's behaviors to be more effective in wiring winning organizations47:17 Breaking the telling habit

What if HOW you go about setting your goals can change the impact you have – even more than the goals themselves? It's that time of year for setting goals, to reflect on what you achieved – or didn't achieve – in the past year and make resolutions and big goals for the coming year. Yet most of us have it backwards when we go about setting goals. We start with our minds before we connect with our hearts.In this episode of Chain of Learning, you'll discover what's missing for most people in our goal-setting culture. If you really want to create a meaningful impact and be more likely to achieve your goals, you need to start first with your intentions.Tune into this episode to learn how to make a shift in your thinking – and your goal-setting process – that will leave you more connected with purpose, fulfilled, and equipped to achieve your goals. You'll understand how to connect who you want to be so that you are set up for what you want to achieve.In this episode you'll learn: The difference between goals and intentions  The importance of aligning actions in the direction of purpose  How a focus only on achieving goals is problematic The importance of reflection  A reflection exercise that will set you up for greater impact Why you must align with your intentions before setting goals Hit play now – and be sure to grab a pen and paper to capture your reflections – to make plans on how you will take aligned action that will propel you towards the impact that you want in the coming year!Important Links: Full show notes: http://chainoflearning.com/7  Episode 4 Leading for Impact: The Power of Being Over Doing: http://chainoflearning.com/4  Episode 5 Achieve More by Performing Less with Eduardo Briceño: http://chainoflearning.com/5  Reflections on Intentions And Goals blog post: https://kbjanderson.com/reflections-on-intentions-and-goals/ Timestamps 00:31: Intention for this episode  02:55: Typical New Year goal setting 03:27: Concept of intentions versus goals 04:27: Importance of intention in leadership 06:48: The difference and connection between goals and intentions 08:24: Discovery of Intention = Heart + Direction ® 09:52: Japanese concept of 'kokorozashi' 12:00: The impact of focusing on goals only 14:21: The power of intention in navigating setbacks 15:09: The importance of connecting with your purpose 17:05: Reflection process for   determining intentions and  goals 19:27: Reflection exercise with questions  21:11: Steps for aligning actions with purpose 23:35: Identifying and aligning actions for the next year 26:06: Dealing with challenges, staying focused and moving forward 27:09: Balancing professional and personal goals 28:04: Legacy and the concept of intention 31:04: Importance of focusing on intentions before goals 31:38: Reflection on leadership with intention for the coming year and conclusion

Quick question, have you ever wondered what it would be like to listen in to these “hallway” conversations to discover what leaders say and reflect on with each other?If you're curious, you're in the right spot. In this episode, I take you behind-the-scenes with exclusive conversations I had with transformational change leaders and executives in attendance at GE's The Lean Mindset. This exciting event, hosted by Larry Culp, Chairman and CEO of GE and GE Aerospace, brought together executives from some of the world's top companies, professional athletes, and thought leaders all focused on pursuing excellence through continuous learning. Thanks to GE's generosity, I was invited to both share my knowledge and to collect knowledge, by bringing my microphone to glean insights from the leaders in attendance during the spaces between the mainstage events. I can't wait to share them with you! You'll hear highlights from my conversations with leaders including:  Chef Eric Klein – Culinary Vice President and Partner at Wolfgang Puck Catering  Dr. Lisa Yerian – Chief Improvement Officer at The Cleveland Clinic Betsy Bingham – Vice President of Lean Operations at GE Aerospace  Phil Wickler – Chief Transformation Officer for GE Aerospace Pat Byrne – Senior Vice President for Operational Transformation at GE What you'll learn: The importance of embracing and learning from failure The power of humility, empathy, and making daily connections with your team Strategies to empower problem-solving and teamwork, including going to gemba, leveraging meaningful metrics, and created structured approaches to improvement The mindset and behavior shifts leaders need to make to build effective leadership habits and lead by example Being an effective leader doesn't mean you have all the answers; it means you're willing to ask questions, go see, and always keep learning. If you are trying to create a high-performing learning organization, you won't want to miss these invaluable insights. Hit play now to be inspired about how you can embed a lean mindset in your organization and accelerate your impact as a change leader.Important Links: Full show notes and links on: http://chainoflearning.com/6 GE's The Lean Mindset Event: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zP2WkL0W-BA  Katie's key takeaways from The Lean Mindset event  https://kbjanderson.com/highlights-the-lean-mindset-event/ Katie's Book: “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn”: https://kbjanderson.com/learning-to-lead/  Follow Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson/ Timestamps  00:55 – Delving into the Insights from GE's The Lean Mindset Event 01:27 – Reflecting on Personal Interactions at the Event 01:40 – A Deep Dive into the Principles of Lean Management 02:38 – Presenting the Esteemed Lineup of Leaders 03:10 – Overview of Themes Covered at The Lean Mindset 04:14 – Excerpt from Chef Eric Klein: Exploring the Lean Mindset in a Kitchen 05:14 – Emphasizing the Importance of Humility and the Willingness to Embrace Failure to Evolve as a Learner 05:59 – Dr. Lisa Yerian Discusses Balancing Humility and Hunger in Leadership 07:16 – Betsy Bingham on Problem-Solving and the Human Element 08:04 – Phil Wickler Shares Insight on the Significance of Gemba 08:55 – Pat Byrne Explores the Importance of Gemba for Both Employees and Customers 09:35 – Betsy Bingham on Problem-Solving Efficiency 10:57 – Recognizing the Value of Repetition to Build Lean Mindset Skills 11:42 – Dr. Yerian Reinforces the Importance of Quality Repetition 12:35 – Leveraging Metrics to Drive Operational Improvements 15:35 – Embracing Challenges and How to Approach to Problem Resolution 16:35 – Benefits of Breaking the Telling Habit for Effective Leadership 17:35 – Insights on Cultivating a Lean Mindset within Your Organizational Culture 22:30 – Larry Culp's Three Key Takeaways 23:50 – Closing Thoughts on the Event and Inspiring Team Dynamics

Have you ever felt burned out and exhausted from the constant pressure to perform, to achieve, or to get it “right”? Or is your organization putting a lot of effort into improvement projects and strategic initiatives, but you are finding that you aren't making much improvement and you are working on the same problems year after year?If so, you might be stuck in what growth mindset and learning organization expert Eduardo Briceño calls the “Performance Paradox”. This is the counterintuitive reality that a constant focus on performing actually leads to lower performance. The secret to high performance is not actually working harder, but learning better. You won't want to miss this episode of Chain of Learning with Eduardo Briceño where we talk about his book “The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action” and how you can master the Learning Zone to achieve better performance.In this episode of Chain of Learning you will learn: How you can turn a growth mindset into action by balancing the “Performance Zone” and the “Learning Zone” The risk for you and your organization if you get stuck in chronic performance  The impact of seeking and receiving feedback on performance and improvement 5 tips to embed growth and learning micro-habits for yourself and within your organization   How you can create the organizational conditions that result in a high-performing learning culture Tune in to discover the impact that overcoming the Performance Paradox – and mastering the Learning Zone – can have on you, your team, and your organization. About My Guest: Eduardo BriceñoEduardo Briceño is a global keynote speaker, facilitator, and bestselling author of “The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset Into Action.” He works with many of the world's leading companies in developing cultures of learning and high performance. Eduardo co-founded Mindset Works – the pioneer in bringing growth mindset strategies into organizations – with Stanford Professor Carol Dweck (my guest on Chain of Learning Episode 3). His TED talks, “How to Get Better at Things You Care About” & “The Power of Belief”  have been viewed over nine million times, and he has been featured in publications such as Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Fast Company.Important links Full show notes and links on: http://chainoflearning.com/5 Eduardo's website:  https://briceno.com/   Connect with Eduardo on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/eduardo-briceno/  Follow Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson/  Work with Katie- KBJAnderson.com Register for “The Performance Paradox” book giveaway: kbjanderson.com/book-giveaway-the-performance-paradox     Timestamps00:39: Understanding the Performance Paradox01:14: The secret to high performance03:03: What is the performance paradox?04:20: Connection between growth mindset and performance paradox05:24: The impact of learning how to change07:19: Discussion on performance and learning culture13:04: Understanding the dangers of staying in chronic performance17:22: Overcoming challenges of limited time for learning19:58: Micro intention and reflection during learning21:32: Leadership learning and challenges26:56: Advice for leading change & building a learning culture32:51: Upcoming chain of learning episodes and book giveaway

Leading for Impact: The Power of Being Over DoingA simple phrase can change your perspective on you as a person and as a leader. “Don't focus on how to DO, but rather on how to BE.”   In this episode, I explore this meaningful and powerful phrase and the impact it has had on me.  This quote reaffirmed my belief about the essence of leadership, and became the rallying cry and motto for the group of global leaders who joined me for my recent Japan Study Trip.It highlights what we often get wrong in our approach to leading organizational cultural transformation or how we actually get results in organizations. We focus more on the DOING than the BEING.In this episode of Chain of Learning you will learn: The story  behind this quote How to significantly shift your – your team's – productivity and happiness by “being” rather than just “doing”. How completing an initiative and applying the technical side of problem-solving isn't always the desired outcome Why it is so hard for us to focus on being rather than doing Three tips I have for you to stay more focused on BEING Take some time and listen to this episode of Chain of Learning podcast. It'll help you hone in on your priorities and find new ways to lead your team from a new perspective. Learn how to be and the results will follow.  Have you subscribed to Chain of Learning? Make sure you subscribe and follow so you don't miss an episode. Important Links: Katie's Book: Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn Japan Study Trip  Visit the episode webpage to see my drawing: http://chainoflearning.com/4 Work with Katie – KBJAnderson.com Follow Katie on LinkedIn  In this episode, you can expect to learn:01:10: Discussion on 'how to be' versus 'how to do'04:28: Key takeaway "Don't focus on how to do but rather on how to be."07:05: Case study - Operational Excellence Practitioners10:16: Learnings from Toyota Leader Esau Yoshino12:13: Being vs Doing in Leadership16:12: Achieving Balance between Being and Doing17:03: Drawing Exercise for Self-introspection22:42: Taking an Intention Pause24:31: Importance of Intentional Pauses26:38: Relation of Being with Organizational Learning28:04: Invitation to Learning Experience in Japan

What is a growth mindset and how is it a critical foundation if you want to develop a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence?Helping people in your organization feel comfortable with learning something new can sometimes be a challenge. This can be especially true with more senior leaders who have had success in their careers and might feel uncomfortable struggling with new skills while being out in front.Cultivating organizational growth, learning, and innovation  In this episode, I speak with Carol Dweck about how to develop a growth mindset – personally and in your organization – and her tips to overcome a fixed mindset organizational culture of “genius” where leaders are enforcers of rules rather than enablers of improvement and innovation.About My Guest: Carol DweckCarol Dweck is a Professor of Psychology at Stanford University and is the bestselling author of “Mindset”, which has sold over 2 million copies globally. Professor Dweck's work has influenced me personally as a parent, and professionally as a coach, consultant and leader. She is an important link in my own Chain of Learning®.In this episode of Chain of Learning you will learn: The difference between growth mindset and a fixed mindset How a growth mindset is the foundation for continuous improvement mindset – a “Lean mindset” – and organizational culture Carol's recommendations for how leaders can create an organizational environment that embraces growth, experimentation, and learning from both failures and successes  How sharing your struggles creating space for a supportive environment for others to share theirs will foster a culture of growth and achievement The next steps you can take to encourage a growth mindset in your organization and team – and make progress towards being the person you want to become. Hit play to unlock this powerful continuous improvement and growth mindset strategy for yourself, your team, and your organization. Are you enjoying the Chain of Learning podcast? Be sure to subscribe or follow –  and to share this podcast with your friends and colleagues so we can all strengthen our Chain of Learning – together. Important Links: Carol Dweck's bestselling book “Mindset”  Carol Dweck's discussion with Larry Culp at GE Event Check out Mark Graban's podcast episode from the GE Event: Discussing the GE Lean Mindset Event with Jim Womack, Katie Anderson, and Jamie V Parker   Watch Katie and Carol's full discussion on YouTube Work with Katie – KBJAnderson.com Follow Katie on LinkedIn  Watch the GE Lean Mindset videos here Full Episode Show Notes, Timestamps and Transcript here:http://chainoflearning.com/3In this episode, you can expect to learn:00:00: Introduction to the Podcast00:46: Discussion on Growth Mindset02:00: Reflections on the Lean Mindset event08:52: Reflections from the GE Event10:04: Importance of Continual Improvement14:02: Leadership approach discussed with Larry Culp16:06: Challenges faced by leaders, overcoming the fear of imperfection19:05: Defining a Growth Mindset Culture23:17: The role of Growth Mindset in progressing within an organization24:10: Challenges of implementing a Growth Mindset within an organization25:40: Discussing supportive company culture26:37: Discussing styles of teaching and management30:34: Discussing stepping into the unknown and taking up challenges32:38: Conclusion, reflections and invitation to listeners.

Encouraging a Growth Mindset and Human Connection in High-Performance Organizations What does it really take to create a thriving organization  – one that is not just focused on delivering results, but doing so by engaging people's minds AND hearts to collaborate, innovate, and solve problems as the way to get to those results?If you're trying to create a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement, What's love got to do with it?As Jamie Parker and I explore on this episode of Chain of Learning  – a lot! Love, empathy, and human connection is our focus – and you just might walk away singing a little Tina Turner too.Tune in to this episode to learn how you can leverage human connection, empathy, and – yes – love – to more effectively lead, coach, and create a high performing organization.About My Guest: Jamie ParkerJamie Parker is the trusted partner for operational leaders and manufacturing executives seeking to create a high-performance culture and transformational growth, and has been a friend of mine since we met a half-decade ago. This conversation is the second half of a two part-conversation that she and I had about GE's recent event, The Lean Mindset: The Pursuit of Progress. You can catch the first part on Jamie's podcast “Lean Leadership for Ops Managers”.This conversation is truly a “chain of learning” linked between our two podcasts!Jamie's Website: Process + ResultsConnect with Jamie on Process + ResultsFollow Jamie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamievparker/ What you can expect to take away from this episode: The value of sharing struggles and challenges to foster a culture of learning Our key takeaways from GE's The Lean Mindset event, including hearing from leaders like GE CEO Larry Culp, PG&E CEO Patti Poppe, Ford CEO Jim Farley, Chef Wolfgang Puck, basketball superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, Professor Carol Dweck, and many more How leading from the heart, with love and empathy, makes us more effective leaders How to more effectively listen and Break the Telling Habit® That a focus on people is the way to achieve results. Tune in now to discover how you can bring more love, empathy, and human connection into your leadership approach to engage your people, get better results, and build a culture of continuous learning.Important Links: Listen to the first part of Katie and Jamie's discussion on Lead Leadership for Ops Managers podcast episode 125: Developing a Growth Mindset as a Leader with Katie Anderson  Watch GE's The Lean Mindset Event videos Watch the full discussion between Jamie and Katie on YouTube  Follow Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson/ Read Katie's book: Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn Full Episode Show Notes, Timestamps and Transcript here:http://chainoflearning.com/2 In this episode, you can expect to learn 00:00:00: Introduction and Overview of the Podcast00:01:35: Introduction of Jamie Parker00:01:52: Discussion about GE Lean Mindset event00:04:23: Tips on fostering Growth and Continuous Improvement Mindset00:08:52: Leading with Love and Empathy00:11:03: Challenge for the Listeners00:14:05: Leading with Intention00:18:05: The Role of Emotion and Love in the Workplace00:20:29: Reflection on the Conversation and Event00:20:59: Launch of the Chain of Learning Podcast00:21:41: Introduction to Jamie's podcasts and the importance of subscribing00:22:02: Post-event discussion with Mark Graben and Jin Womack00:22:41: Reflecting on empathy and human connection in leadership00:22:57: Subscribe to Chain of Learning podcast00:23:09: Preview of episode three with Professor Carol Dweck

The pressure to get results and outcomes, to deliver value for customers, and to stay ahead of the competition remains paramount for organizations to survive into the future. But what if the way to not just survive –  but also to thrive – is not through a singular focus on the outcomes themselves, but rather the learning process to get there?If you're a leader who believes that people are at the center of exceptional organizational culture – and that a commitment to continuous learning is the way to create that culture – where everyone is capable, confident and empowered to solve problems and innovate at all levels – this podcast is for you!Welcome to Chain of Learning!Your Leadership Connection to Create a Culture of Continuous ImprovementThis is your trusted resource for actionable strategies and practices to empower you to build a people-centred learning culture, get results and expand your impact, so that you AND your team, can leave a lasting legacy.This new podcast is hosted by me, Katie Anderson. I'm an internationally recognized leadership consultant, keynote speaker, author of the award-winning book Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn – and learning enthusiast.If you are like me, you believe in learning and continuous improvement. You know the impact this can have on people, teams, and organizations. You have a passion for solving important problems, improving processes, and achieving goals. You thrive on the challenge of figuring out how to make something better. And you love learning and improving. But more importantly, you too are inspired by creating connections between people and ideas, and what it means to help others learn, grow, and achieve more than they thought was possible. This is what you can expect from Chain of Learning: Learn from me and other thought leaders and professionals about how to achieve your goal of creating a thriving people-centered culture of continuous improvement and achieve business results Walk away with tangible practices and strategies that you can apply immediately  Discover how you can become a highly influential change leader who accelerates the rate of learning and impact in your organization. What is a “Chain of Learning”?Chain of Learning® is one of my core principles. We are all leaders and learners – connected together by the bond between us. There is no strength in isolated links. We learn and improve better – together – and it's why I started this podcast.A Chain of Learning is a metaphor for what a successful people-centered learning organization is all about – the connection and support between people to learn through success and failure alike,  grow, and achieve more than they could have on their own. This is the power of our Chain of Learning. At my core I believe: When we stay in learning, anything is possible.In this introductory episode, I explore this and more. I invite you to hit play. Be sure to subscribe or follow and share it with your friends and colleagues so we can all strengthen our Chain of Learning® – together. Important Links: Episode webpage: http://chainoflearning.com/1 Katie's website: KBJAnderson.com Katie's book, Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn Follow Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson/ Subscribe to Katie's newsletter In this episode you can expect to learn:00:00: Introduction to this podcast Chain of Learning02:07: Challenges in developing a people-centred learning culture03:26: Goals for the Chain of Learning podcast04:16: Upcoming discussions with global thought leaders06:43: Concept behind Chain of Learning08:17: Request to subscribe and share the podcast.

Coming Soon!Chain of Learning: Empowering Continuous Improvement Change LeadersIf you're a leader who believes people are at the center of exceptional organizational culture – and that a commitment to continuous learning is the way to create that culture – stay tuned!Subscribe and follow now so you never miss an episode.