Org Design Podcast

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Leaders share the stories behind real org design, organizational structure & managing change. We shine a light on the challenges and breakthroughs of optimizing, and building organizations that people love. This is for modern leaders who are building the organizations of the future. Join host Amy Springer and the co-founders of Functionly, Tim Brewer and Damian Bramanis, on their quest to make work, work better.

Amy Springer, Tim Brewer and Damian Bramanis

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    • May 8, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 24m AVG DURATION
    • 34 EPISODES
    • 1 SEASONS


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    Latest episodes from Org Design Podcast

    Why True Collaboration is Rare and How to Fix It with Abby Allen

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 19:26


    In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, hosts Tim Brewer and Amy Springer welcome Abby Allen, an organizational development practitioner with over 20 years of experience. Abby shares her insights on the evolving nature of organizational design, emphasizing the importance of understanding both people and systems in order to foster effective collaboration within organizations. The discussion covers the impact of artificial intelligence on organizational structures, the challenges of leading large organizations, and the necessity of having a systems-oriented approach to solve complex problems. Abby highlights the significance of asking the right questions to uncover underlying issues within organizations, rather than merely focusing on surface-level solutions. She encourages leaders to embrace collaboration, not just as a function, but as a culture within their teams. Throughout the conversation, Abby shares practical advice for those looking to build organizational design capabilities within their companies, stressing the need for an open-minded and generative approach to leadership. Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the challenges of organizational design in today's fast-paced environment and learn how to create healthier, more adaptable organizations.

    Strategy First, People Always: Balancing Tough Decisions and Empathy in Org Design with Nicole Gee

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2025 25:13


    In this insightful episode of the Org Design Podcast, Amy Springer and Rory Mustan from Functionly are joined by Nicole Gee from Geenius Consulting to explore the nuanced journey of organizational design. Nicole candidly shares her early struggles in org design, emphasizing the pivotal role of confidence and clarity. She highlights that successful organizational change requires leaders to deeply understand the strategic 'why' behind decisions and thoughtfully manage the emotional impacts on their teams. Listeners will gain valuable insights on: How Nicole overcame initial setbacks by embracing continuous learning and feedback. The critical balance between strategy and empathy, ensuring that people are always central to org design. Practical steps for leaders to confidently and transparently guide their teams through complex changes. The importance of clearly articulating challenges, required capabilities, and roles early in the process. Why active listening and informal conversations can be powerful tools for leaders anticipating organizational shifts. This episode emphasizes that effective org design goes beyond structural changes—it's about building confidence, clarity, and genuine engagement throughout the process. Connect with Nicole Gee on LinkedIn or at geeniusconsulting.co.uk.

    Honor the past while embracing the future in your org design with Ramona Elena-Cherciu

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2025 22:21


    Join us on the Org Design Podcast as we dive into a captivating conversation with Ramona Elena Curciu, Head of Coherence, live from the EODF conference in Milan. In this episode, we explore the essence of org design, the journey from personal challenges to professional triumphs, and the importance of approaching organizational change with humility and respect. Ramona shares her unique insights on balancing the heart and tools in org design, emphasizing the need to honor the past while fostering growth. As hosts, we delve into the mindset required for effective org design, drawing parallels with design research principles. Tune in to discover how compassion and curiosity can transform organizational landscapes. If you're curious about org design or seeking inspiration, this episode is a must-listen. Connect with Ramona on LinkedIn and share your thoughts with us.

    Inclusion in Org Design and creating conditions for EVERYBODY to thrive with Amri B. Johnson

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 29:35


    In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, hosts Tim Brewer and Amy Springer welcome Amri B. Johnson from Inclusion Wins. Amri shares his journey into organizational design, revealing how his background as an epidemiologist shaped his understanding of leadership and management. He discusses the importance of creating organizational structures that foster emergent strategies, emphasizing that "structure creates behavior." Amri highlights the common pitfalls organizations face when trying to implement diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, noting that many fail to align their strategies with their stated goals. He argues for a shift in perspective: DEI should not be seen as a separate initiative but as integral to the organization's fabric. Listeners will gain insights into the significance of including team members in the decision-making process and the need for leaders to develop robust listening skills to build adaptive organizations. This conversation aims to equip leaders with the tools to create inclusive environments that allow all individuals to thrive, ultimately driving better organizational outcomes. Tune in to learn how to design organizations that are not only effective but also resilient and inclusive, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.

    Mastering the Cube: A Deep Dive into Organizational Design with Dallin Whitfield

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2025 15:32


    In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, Tim Brewer and Amy Springer sit down with Dallin Whitfield, a volunteer at the Org Design Festival and an expert in organizational design. Dallin shares his unconventional journey from aspiring lawyer to becoming an organization design consultant, highlighting the importance of understanding systems and people in the workplace. They discuss the evolving nature of organizational design, emphasizing the need for adaptability in response to external pressures like technological advancements and market changes. Dallin explains how Align Org, his current consultancy, focuses on collaboration and leveraging existing organizational knowledge to drive effective design processes. Listeners will gain insights into the methodologies used in organizational design, including the "Mastering the Cube" framework, which Dallin uses to guide organizations through strategic alignment and structural changes. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by organizations in today's fast-paced environment and the importance of continuous design governance. Join us for an engaging discussion on how to navigate the complexities of organization design and build better workplaces.

    From Science to Strategy: Effective Org Design with Beth Gunderson

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2025 28:28


    Join us on the Org Design Podcast as we dive into the fascinating journey of Beth Gunderson in our episode, From Science to Strategy: Effective Org Design with Beth Gunderson. Beth, a key figure at the University of Southern California's Center for Effective Organizations, shares her unique path from material science to becoming an influential org design consultant. We explore her insights on the STAR framework, the importance of aligning org design with strategy, and the evolving role of operating models. Beth also discusses how leaders can effectively communicate change and foster collaboration across various organizational levels. With her extensive experience, Beth offers valuable advice for leaders and designers alike. Tune in as Amy, Damian, and I uncover the intricacies of effective org design and how it can transform organizations.

    Bringing Soul Back to Work: Designing for Dignity, Creativity, and Connection with Jardena London

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2025 18:38


    In this conversation, Jardena London—an Agile practitioner and author—discusses the concept of creating “soulful” organizations. Drawing on her background in software development, Jardena noticed that the real challenges weren't purely technical; instead, they stemmed from how people and teams work together. She highlights three core conditions for soulfulness in any organization: Dignity – Ensuring people are treated with respect, rather than being forced to earn basic self-worth through work. Creativity – Making space for genuine problem-solving and innovation, as opposed to purely transactional or process-driven work that drains energy. Human Connection – Fostering collaboration and openness instead of merely relying on rigid handoffs and “automated” communication. Jardena contrasts these elements with environments that “crush the soul,” where strict processes, ego-driven leadership, or lack of trust discourage creativity and honest dialogue. She believes leaders have a key role in setting conditions: by becoming more self-aware, staying curious (especially in high-stakes situations), and listening actively, they can reduce friction and remove obstacles for their teams. From an organization design perspective, Jardena advocates looking at formal structures, processes, and policies—like budgeting or performance reviews—and asking how they might be unintentionally stifling dignity, creativity, or connection. Then, leaders should revisit the original purpose of these processes and rebuild them in ways that restore or enhance soulfulness. Ultimately, Jardena's message is that while efficiency and outcomes matter, they are achieved more sustainably when leaders and teams operate with humanity at the forefront—creating organizations where people's energy and creativity can flourish.

    Bringing Soul Back to Work: Designing for Dignity, Creativity, and Connection with Jardena London

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2025 18:37 Transcription Available


    Send us a textIn this conversation, Jardena London—an Agile practitioner and author—discusses the concept of creating “soulful” organizations. Drawing on her background in software development, Jardena noticed that the real challenges weren't purely technical; instead, they stemmed from how people and teams work together.She highlights three core conditions for soulfulness in any organization:Dignity – Ensuring people are treated with respect, rather than being forced to earn basic self-worth through work.Creativity – Making space for genuine problem-solving and innovation, as opposed to purely transactional or process-driven work that drains energy.Human Connection – Fostering collaboration and openness instead of merely relying on rigid handoffs and “automated” communication.Jardena contrasts these elements with environments that “crush the soul,” where strict processes, ego-driven leadership, or lack of trust discourage creativity and honest dialogue. She believes leaders have a key role in setting conditions: by becoming more self-aware, staying curious (especially in high-stakes situations), and listening actively, they can reduce friction and remove obstacles for their teams.From an organization design perspective, Jardena advocates looking at formal structures, processes, and policies—like budgeting or performance reviews—and asking how they might be unintentionally stifling dignity, creativity, or connection. Then, leaders should revisit the original purpose of these processes and rebuild them in ways that restore or enhance soulfulness.Ultimately, Jardena's message is that while efficiency and outcomes matter, they are achieved more sustainably when leaders and teams operate with humanity at the forefront—creating organizations where people's energy and creativity can flourish.Support the show

    Empathy Meets Strategy: How Leaders Transform Organizations with Pallavi Srivistava

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2025 25:55 Transcription Available


    Send us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, host Amy Springer engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Pallavi Srivastava, an associate partner at The OrgSmith. They explore the often misunderstood concept of organizational design, emphasizing its importance beyond mere restructuring and cost-cutting measures. Pallavi shares insights on the need for leaders to adopt an agile and entrepreneurial mindset in today's rapidly changing business environment, particularly in light of recent global disruptions like COVID-19.The discussion covers the critical role of leaders in aligning organizational structures with dynamic strategies and the necessity for constant communication about these strategies. Pallavi highlights the significance of fostering a culture of innovation and psychological safety, enabling organizations to adapt quickly to change. She provides real-world examples of companies that successfully pivoted during the pandemic, demonstrating the qualities that empower resilient and agile organizations.Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of job design in the context of AI and digital transformation, and the essential leadership skills required to navigate these changes. Pallavi underscores the need for empathy in leadership while also advocating for the courage to make tough decisions as organizations adapt to new challenges.Join us for this enlightening episode as we uncover the complexities of organizational design and the pivotal role of leadership in fostering a responsive and resilient business environment.Support the show

    Cultivating Love-Driven Success in Business with David Henzel

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2025 17:52 Transcription Available


    Send us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, the hosts chat with David Henzel, the founder of Love Not Fear and an accomplished entrepreneur with a diverse portfolio of businesses. David shares his journey from being a recovering introvert to a successful leader, emphasizing the transformative power of making decisions out of love rather than fear. He discusses the importance of creating a company culture where employees feel empowered and motivated, leading to increased productivity and satisfaction.David dives into practical strategies for fostering alignment, trust, and motivation within teams, including innovative approaches to organizational design that break down silos and promote collaboration. He introduces exercises such as the lifeline and 3-2-1 to help team members connect on a deeper level, enhancing communication and cooperation.Listeners will gain insight into David's experience with various companies, including Upcoach and TaskDrive, and learn how his philosophy of "Love Not Fear" can be applied to cultivate a thriving organizational culture. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for leaders seeking to create meaningful and impactful work environments.Support the show

    Leading change with curiosity, clarity and human-centricity with Elizabeth Venter and Ross Libby

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2025 25:52 Transcription Available


    Send us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, we're joined by Elizabeth Venter and Ross Libby to explore the human side of organizational change. Our guests share invaluable insights on how to implement structural changes while keeping people at the heart of the transformation process.Key discussion points include:The importance of involving team members in organizational change rather than imposing decisions from aboveWhy continuous communication is crucial throughout the entire change processHow seeking clarity rather than certainty leads to better organizational outcomesThe value of experimentation and learning through pilot programsElizabeth emphasizes that successful organizational change requires supporting each team individually through their transformation journey, while Ross shares the powerful perspective that "the future punishes certainty but rewards clarity." Together, they provide practical advice for leaders navigating organizational change, whether they're org design experts or just beginning their journey.This conversation offers essential insights for anyone interested in creating more effective, human-centered organizations that can adapt and thrive in today's rapidly changing business environment.Support the show

    Beyond the Day-to-Day: Transforming Technical Experts into Strategic Leaders with Jodie Goulden

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2024 21:27 Transcription Available


    Send us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, organizational design expert Jodie Goulden shares valuable insights on leadership transitions and organizational effectiveness. She discusses the concept, shared by Beth Gunderson at the 2024 ODF conference, the challenges leaders face when moving from operational roles ("the dance floor") to strategic positions ("the balcony"), particularly in rapidly growing organizations.Key highlights include:The importance of balancing strategic oversight with operational understandingPractical techniques for facilitating organizational diagnosis without external consultantsStrategies for helping technically proficient leaders adapt to broader management rolesMethods for addressing organizational overwhelm and creating sustainable systemsJodie emphasizes the power of collaborative problem-solving and shares how leaders can create space for different perspectives when addressing organizational challenges. She provides practical advice for leaders who may feel uncomfortable stepping away from day-to-day operations to take a more strategic view.Whether you're a new leader adjusting to a larger scope of responsibility or an experienced executive looking to improve organizational effectiveness, this episode offers valuable insights into modern leadership challenges and organizational design principles.Support the show

    Humanizing Leadership: How Modern Organizations Can Build Trust and Drive Growth with Vinisha Rathod

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2024 25:28 Transcription Available


    Send us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, Vinisha Rathod, founder of P3 Studios (People, Partnerships, Purpose), shares her expertise on organizational scaling and leadership development. She introduces her framework of "Five Hindrances to Scaling" which includes focus, family, financials, feedback receptiveness, and funnel efficiency. Vinisha emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between people and positions, particularly as organizations grow and evolve.A key highlight is her discussion on creating healthy organizational cultures, drawing parallels between high-performing sports teams and effective workplace dynamics. She addresses crucial topics such as leadership transition, the challenges of title inflation, and the importance of having difficult conversations about organizational structure. Vinisha shares valuable insights from her experience working with companies across Australia and the Middle East.The conversation also explores innovative approaches to organizational design, referencing examples from "Reinventing Organizations" and discussing practical methods for improving workplace communication and decision-making. Vinisha offers fascinating perspectives on humanizing the workplace, including the impact of bringing children and pets into office spaces, and how COVID-19 has transformed our view of leadership.Support the show

    Why Leaders Need to Embrace Chaos (and Love It) with Carlos Valdes-Dapena

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2024 28:30 Transcription Available


    Send us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, we sit down with Carlos Valdes-Dapena, a seasoned expert in organizational design and development. Carlos shares his insights on the evolving nature of organizational structures, the importance of adaptability in leadership, and the human aspects of organizational change.Carlos discusses the shift from traditional hierarchical structures to more responsive and adaptive organizational models. He emphasizes the need for leaders to let go of outdated control paradigms and embrace a more flexible approach to management. The conversation touches on the challenges of change, both for organizations and individuals, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in today's rapidly evolving business landscape.Key points from the episode:The transition from control-based to responsive organizational structuresThe importance of adaptability and "letting go" for leaders in modern organizationsThe human challenges in organizational change and the need for continuous learningInsights into the Organization Design Forum (ODF) and its role in the field of organizational designThe broad scope of organizational design, encompassing various aspects of how human systems operate in workplacesThis episode offers valuable insights for leaders, managers, and anyone interested in improving organizational effectiveness and navigating the complexities of modern business environments.Support the show

    Clarity is at the Heart of Org Structure: Mastering Clarity Breaks with Lisa Cooper

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2024 23:19 Transcription Available


    Send us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, Lisa Cooper, an experienced organizational design consultant, shares valuable insights on building effective organizational structures. Key takeaways include:The importance of designing structures for the business rather than for specific individualsThe need to consider future goals when creating organizational structuresThe value of clarity in leadership and organizational designThe benefit of taking "clarity breaks" to think strategically about the businessLisa emphasizes the significance of putting the business and its mission first when designing organizational structures. She advises against creating roles for specific individuals, instead focusing on what the business needs to succeed. Lisa also highlights the importance of considering long-term goals, encouraging leaders to envision their organization 5-10 years in the future.A key theme throughout the discussion is the power of clarity. Lisa borrows from Brené Brown's quote, "Clear is kind," to illustrate how clarity in strategy, structure, and roles can lead to amazing outcomes. She recommends that leaders take regular "clarity breaks" to disconnect from daily operations and think strategically about their organization and team.The episode provides practical advice for leaders involved in organizational design, emphasizing the balance between strategic thinking and day-to-day operations. Lisa's insights offer valuable guidance for creating resilient, future-focused organizational structures.Listen to the full episode to gain deeper insights into effective organizational design and leadership strategies.Support the show

    Aligning Teams and Decoding Resistance: Brandon Curry's Guide to Leadership

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2024 17:16 Transcription Available


    In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, Brandon Curry shares insights on organizational design and leadership. Key points include:The importance of understanding roles and their interrelations in an organizationRecognizing resistance as a sign of engagement and progress in organizational changeThe value of specific questions and conversations in gauging organizational healthAnalogies between organizational dynamics and music or sports teamsRecommendations for resources on organizational design, including works by Kates Kesler and the Center for Effective OrganizationsThe significance of participative design and including more of the organization in the processThe application of continuous improvement methodologies like Lean and Kaizen in organizational designBrandon emphasizes the importance of clear communication, understanding current states, and involving team members in the design process. He also highlights the value of specific tools and methodologies in approaching organizational challenges.Support the show

    Scaling with Intention: How to Address Growing Pains in Your Organization with Alix Prassas

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2024 26:53 Transcription Available


    In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, host Tim Brewer interviews Alix Prassis, an organizational design expert and founder of Culture Elevation Consulting. Alix shares her unique journey into org design, from growing up in a family business to her diverse experiences in HR, learning and engagement, and DEI roles. She discusses the importance of proactive organizational design, addressing growing pains in scaling companies, and the common symptoms of structural issues in organizations. Alix emphasizes the need for leaders to look beyond quick fixes and consider broader systemic solutions, highlighting the value of strategic workforce planning and designing with culture in mind. The conversation also touches on Alix's role as an adjunct professor and her approach to helping leaders navigate organizational challenges.Support the show

    Moving Beyond Budget Cuts: Aligning Org Design with Strategy with Cynthia Escamilla

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2024 16:51 Transcription Available


    In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, Cynthia Escamilla, an experienced organizational design consultant, shares insights on effective org design practices. She emphasizes the importance of looking at the bigger picture when addressing organizational issues, rather than just changing roles or people. Cynthia advises leaders to focus on strategic goals and align organizational structure accordingly. She discusses common pitfalls in org design, such as mislabeling budget cuts as reorganization. Cynthia also highlights the iterative nature of org design, suggesting that leaders should plan for continuous adaptation. She explains her consulting approach, which includes diagnostics, co-creation of future designs, and implementation support. The conversation touches on the impact of AI and technology on workforce roles, emphasizing the need for organizations to consider how jobs may be augmented by new technologies in the future.Support the show

    Future-Proofing Organizations: Joemmy Ramirez & Mary Selden on Internal Organizational Design Team Success

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2024 27:02 Transcription Available


    Unlocking the Future of Organizational Design: In this episode from the Org Design Festival, experts Joemmy Ramirez and Mary Selden, join Podcast hosts Tim Brewer and Amy Springer, explore the art and science of developing effective organizational design functions within large organizations. They discuss unconventional career paths and innovative approaches to modern organizational challenges, along with the crucial elements for reshaping and future-proofing organizational structures. Joemmy and Mary provide invaluable advice for leaders, highlighting the importance of adaptability, strategic foresight, and the evolving role of technology in organizational design.Support the show

    Building Resilient Organizations: Steve Garcia on Navigating Effectiveness in Today's Rapidly Changing World

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2024 24:02 Transcription Available


    In this podcast, Tim Brewer, Amy Springer, and Steve Garcia explore the evolving landscape of organizational design. Steve, who began consulting in 2005, emphasizes that org design encompasses more than just structure, including processes, culture, and informal networks.Steve highlights how rapid technological changes, particularly AI, are making traditional leadership approaches obsolete. His company, Contemporary Leadership Advisors (CLA), assists leaders in navigating these changes, often when they feel overwhelmed by ineffective traditional practices.The discussion touches on AI's impact on productivity and organizational connections. Steve advises leaders to start with a listening phase to understand challenges broadly before implementing solutions. He advocates for agile, iterative approaches to strategy and execution, moving away from rigid planning cycles.The conversation concludes with insights on the necessity of continuous organizational adjustments to remain competitive in today's fast-paced business environment.Support the Show.

    Impact-Driven Businesses and the power of Org Design with Kiersten Rippeteau

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2024 20:10 Transcription Available


    Kiersten Rippeteau discusses her journey into organizational design, starting from internal consulting in healthcare to external consulting in the construction industry. She emphasizes the importance of understanding organizational systems and human behaviors. Rippeteau highlights the need for clear strategy, values, and effective communication within organizations. She also touches on the impact of AI in consulting and construction, stressing the importance of maintaining a human lens. Rippeteau's firm, New Commodity, focuses on practical, impact-driven business models to improve organizational effectiveness and positive societal impact.Support the Show.

    Designing product orgs of the future with Gary Cohen of Practical Agility

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2024 21:17 Transcription Available


    Gary Cohen, owner of Practical Agility, discusses his journey from software development to organizational design, emphasizing the importance of aligning incentives, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and focusing on customer outcomes. He highlights the need for continuous product discovery and learning to improve efficiency and effectiveness in product teams. Cohen also addresses the increasing demand for rapid organizational changes and the potential impact of AI on product development. He advises leaders to create group goals, provide autonomy to product teams, and maintain strong customer relationships to drive better outcomes.Support the Show.

    Professor and Practitioner: Strategy, Power and Politics, and Curiosity in Org Design with Chris Worley

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2024 30:36 Transcription Available


    In this Org Design Podcast episode from the Organizational Design Festival 2024, Chris Worley shares his fascinating journey in organizational design. We explore the common signs of org design issues, the importance of strategy in effective org design, and the challenges of power and politics in implementation. Chris emphasizes the significance of curiosity, trust-building, and the role of leaders in fostering psychological safety during organizational change. Tune in for insightful stories, practical advice, and a deep dive into the art and science of creating well-structured, adaptive organizations.00:00:00 - Introduction and Welcome00:00:36 - Chris Worley's Background and Journey00:03:33 - Importance of Organizational Design00:04:56 - Challenges in Implementing Change00:06:42 - Incremental vs. Radical Change00:10:23 - The Future of Continuous Transformation00:13:15 - Psychological Safety in Change00:14:32 - Overcoming Resistance to Change00:19:46 - The Need for Strategic Agility00:22:45 - Building an Agile Organization00:24:53 - The Role of AI in Organizational Design00:27:48 - Future Scenarios and Prompt Engineering00:30:02 - Closing Remarks and Contact InformationSupport the Show.

    Insights on Org Design from Shubha Narayanan on AI, Collaboration, and the UNSPEND Model

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2024 21:51 Transcription Available


    In the latest episode of the Org Design Podcast, hosts Tim Brewer and Amy Springer welcome Shubha Narayanan, a partner at OrgSmith, to discuss all things organization design and workforce transformation. Shubha shares her insights on the evolving role of org design, emphasizing the importance of solving problems through people and processes rather than mere structures. She delves into her journey from working at KPMG to leading OrgSmith, highlighting the importance of aligning organizational structures with business strategies. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on org design, the need for horizontal organizations, and the crucial role of leaders in fostering collaboration and innovation. Shubha's UNSPEND model for org design is explained, providing listeners with a comprehensive approach to tackling organizational challenges. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in creating agile, efficient, and scalable organizations.Support the Show.

    Unlocking Org Success: from Paul Tolchinsky, a founding father of modern org design

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2024 17:30 Transcription Available


    Paul Tolchinsky discusses his journey into organizational design, emphasizing the importance of human interaction and systemic thinking over traditional hierarchical structures. He highlights the need for leaders to embrace resistance, engage with employees at all levels, and create adaptive, responsive systems. Tolchinsky advocates for leaders to ask good questions, listen, and integrate diverse perspectives to foster a more inclusive and effective organizational environment. He also mentions his new venture, Change Accelerators, aimed at leveraging experienced professionals to drive meaningful change.Support the Show.

    Leading with Empathy: CEO Drew Sechrist on key org design decisions and navigating a down-size

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2024 37:39 Transcription Available


    Drew Sechrist, CEO of Connect the Dots, discusses the challenges of organizational design and the importance of empathy in leadership. He shares his experience of having to lay off 20% of his company, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and support for affected team members. Sechrist also highlights the benefits of having a geographically diverse team, with operations in both the United States and Serbia, and how the company has adapted to remote work.Support the Show.

    Role, goal and decision clarity, and why you should never design around a person with Ron Schwartz

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2024 33:42 Transcription Available


    In the podcast interview, Ron Schwartz discusses the importance of organizational design, emphasizing the need to identify roles, goals, and decision rights. He advises against designing an organization around individuals, instead suggesting to design around what is needed to execute strategy and plans. Schwartz also highlights the importance of open conversations in the organization, particularly when dealing with changes. He suggests that leaders should have the ability to deliberately design a conversation, considering the outcome and impact they want to have on the other person.Support the show

    Growing a company from 6 to 120+ and getting thrown into Org Design with CEO Tom Douglas

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2023 26:53 Transcription Available


    Discover the secrets to creating adaptable organizations and accelerating business growth with Tom Douglas, the CEO of JMARK. In this engaging podcast episode, Tom shares his valuable insights on the importance of org design, clear responsibilities, and aligning with customer and employee needs. Learn from his experiences and gain practical tips for building a successful business in today's dynamic landscape.Listen now and unlock the potential of effective org design! #Podcast #OrgDesign #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipLessonsSupport the show

    Unleashing the Power of Org Design: Insights from Kattie Capozza on Patterns, Connectivity, and Strategic Decision-Making

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2023 28:04 Transcription Available


    In this podcast episode, Kattie Capozza discusses her approach to org design based on her lived experience. She emphasizes the importance of understanding cause and effect, identifying patterns, and connecting different aspects of an organization. Starting with the operating model and considering factors such as workflow, structure, talent, and business cycles can lead to more thoughtful and strategic org design decisions. Capozza also highlights the need for patience, involving employees in the design process, and providing them with choices and transparency to minimize resistance to change.Support the show

    Why Kumbaya and trust falls won't work and what's needed to avoid toxic cultures ft. Glenn Bergsma (Evolve Leadership)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2023 28:25 Transcription Available


    In this conversation, Glenn Bergsma, an organizational and leadership development consultant from Evolve Leadership, shares his insights into organizational design. Bergsma notes that his consulting engagements often involve organizational design, which is one of the many areas of expertise that his firm specializes in.Bergsma emphasizes the importance of deep listening when identifying organizational issues. According to him, leaders need to play the video, or think ahead to future growth and scalability, to identify potential problems and areas for improvement. This approach requires leaders to be proactive and forward-thinking, which is essential in today's fast-paced and constantly changing business environment.Another key point that Bergsma stresses is the need for organizations to develop a culture of change. He believes that companies should not rely on external consulting firms to redesign their structures, as change is happening too fast and organizations need to respond quickly. Instead, he suggests that leaders develop org design skills in-house to respond quickly to change.Bergsma also highlights the importance of clarity in roles and responsibilities to avoid toxic cultures. He emphasizes the need for deep listening and understanding the underlying issues within an organization to identify areas for improvement. Leaders must be flexible, adaptable, and forward-thinking to ensure that their organizations remain effective and successful in the long term.Overall, Bergsma's insights highlight the importance of deep listening, foresight, and adaptability in organizational design. By fostering a culture of change and developing org design skills internally, leaders can ensure that their organizations remain agile and responsive to change, which is critical in today's rapidly changing business environment.Support the show

    Healthy Org Design Culture ft. Don McKenzie (Tribe Ventures)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2023 37:39


    Tim Brewer (Functionly) chats with Don McKenzie (Tribe Ventures) about his experience growing organizations across Australia and the US. Then how he still prioritises org design conversations with the teams he speaks to as a venture-based investor and advisor for growing organizations. Don covers the PAEI principles and making sure you have a "christmas tree" style org. Then most importantly, the need to create a positive and healthy org design culture that results in the team being excited about org design projects and not fearful.Support the show

    Growing (Startup) Pains and why this 100+ head CEO still interviews new hires. ft Dr. Marcus Tan (HealthEngine)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2020 28:54


    Join us are we chat with Dr. Marcus Tan, co-founder & CEO of HealthEngine: A venture backed darling of the Australian startup scene, now with over 100+ team that started in his lounge room. Settle in for an inspiring episode as Tim & Damian explore HealthEngine's  story as Marcus shares some of the lessons (and scars) he's gained along the way. Find out more about what Marcus and his team are up to at: https://healthengine.com.au/ • Twitter: @drmarcustan • LinkedIn: drmarcustan

    Digital Transformation, Dunbar limits and Designing effective teams ft Giles Anderton (ex-Guardian)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2020 23:37


    ex-Head of Digital Transformation at the Guardian, and Principal Consultant at Cantor & Ball, Giles Anderton knows what it takes to ‘break it before you make it'. In this podcast Tim & Damian explore Giles' story, the effect of Dunbar's no. on organisations and how he design teams at produce results. Listen in as they gain valuable insights on their quest to make work, work better.     Find out more about what Giles is up to now: http://cantorandball.com/  • Twitter: @gilesa74 • LinkedIn: gilesanderton

    Building a Unicorn Culture ft. Clayton Moulynox

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2020 30:45 Transcription Available


    Unicorn Auth0's former Head of Culture & Head of Customer Success, and on deck with Microsoft during their cloud transition, Clayton Moulynox has a wealth of experience and expertise manage the pain of designing work and teams in fast growing companies. In this podcast Tim & Damian explore Clayton's story, how he approaches conflict, structures he's found useful, hiring sprees, and along the way gain valuable insights on their quest to make work, work better.   Find out more about what Clayton is up to now: https://www.moulynox.com/ • Twitter: @claytonhm • LinkedIn: claytonmoulynox

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