The Just-in-Time Cafe Podcast

It's Episode 111 highlight is Tracy & Elisabeth's interview with best-selling author John Guaspari–about his latest book, If Engagement the Why, then Respect Is the How. We quizzed John on how an aerospace engineer ended up writing what could be a how-to guide for the Lean tenet: “Respect for People.” For Hot Apps, we'll explore an offering from your local library that's free and worth thousands, and for today's Q&A, we ask, “Do traditional hierarchies make it harder to foster true respect between leaders and employees?” Let's explore why respect isn't just nice to have—it's how the world actually works—when it works. 00:00 - Intro 01:27 - What's on the Menu? 02:20 - Hot Apps Libby 11:39 - Q&A "Do traditional hierarchies make it harder to foster true respect between leaders and employees?" 20:11 - Featured Guest John Guaspari 48:30 - Upcoming Events Resources: New! Picture Yourself a Leader as an audiobook! Multiple-award-winning book, Picture Yourself A Leader 5S Baby!, Ms. Fix-a-Lot's latest Lean Rap Video Ready or not, here we come!   Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/wkibL5SHn34 - Apple Podcasts - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 110, and the highlight is our interview with April Thomas, who has drawn on her clinical healthcare background to incorporate the stages of grief into change management. We'll delve into how they intersect with and help drive Operational Excellence. For our Book Buzz, we're revisiting the classic book Switch by Chip and Dan Heath. The cover has the iconic light switch–and we've learned the hard way that change does not happen at the flip of a switch. For Q&A, we asked, what are the most common change management obstacles you see continuous improvement professionals running into? Change, grief, and progress! 00:00 - Intro 01:35 - What's on the Menu? 02:29 - Book Buzz Switch: How to Change Things When Change is Hard by Chip Heath & Dan Heath 15:26 - Q&A "What are the most common change management obstacles you see continuous improvement professionals running into?" 20:35 - Featured Guest April Thomas 45:53 - Upcoming Events Resources: New! Picture Yourself a Leader as an audiobook! Multiple-award-winning book, Picture Yourself A Leader 5S Baby!, Ms. Fix-a-Lot's latest Lean Rap Video Ready or not, here we come!   Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/wkibL5SHn34 - Apple Podcasts - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 109, and the highlight is Elisabeth & Tracy's interview with Dan Zigmond, ordained Buddhist Priest, tech professional, and author of The Buddha's Office. He's seen his share of offices, so he's in the best position to describe how mindfulness alleviates workplace suffering. For Book Buzz, we'll cover a guide that lays out the steps to designing fully transformative workshops. It shakes up the notion that experiential workshops are the pinnacle. And then for Q&A, we asked, when does describing a feeling mask blame, judgment, or criticism? We're taking a deep dive into the emotional underpinnings of modern work life. Although we may not discuss emotions in the workplace, we ignore them at our peril. Let's get mindful! 00:00 - Intro 01:28 - What's on the Menu? 02:27 - Book Buzz Designing & Leading Life-Changing Workshops 13:40 - Q&A "When does describing a feeling mask blame, judgment, or criticism?" 20:06 - Featured Guest Dan Zigmond 47:58 - Upcoming Events LinkedIn Live Event: "From Page to Sound: The Making of a Leadership Audiobook" with Katie Anderson, featuring Elisabeth Swan Resources: Multiple-award-winning book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" "5S Baby!" Ms. Fix-a-Lot's latest Lean Rap Video Ready or not, here we come!   Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/u628h_nLgN4 - Apple Podcasts - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 108, and the highlight is Tracy & Elisabeth's interview with Kate Parmelee. She's the Deputy City Manager for Strategic Initiatives & Innovation, and she's transforming the City of Port St. Lucie, Florida into a model for problem solving. Cities around the country are taking notes from her and her crackerjack team. For Hot Apps, we delve into a grade-school skillset paired with an automated teacher—get ready for A+ work. And for Q&A, we asked, do you have a habit of reflection, and if you do, how do you make use of it? Ready or not, here we come! 00:00 - Intro 01:22 - What's on the Menu? 02:05 - Hot Apps Grammarly 07:14 - Q&A Do you have a habit of reflection, and, if you do, how do you make use of it? 13:04 - Featured Guest Kate Parmelee 23:24 - Upcoming Events Resources: Multiple-award-winning book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" "5S Baby!" Ms. Fix-a-Lot's latest Lean Rap Video Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/qTFRqBi06D4 Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 107 and it's the first menu of the year! Today's highlight is an interview with Tracy and Elisabeth! Turns out they're the fascinating authors of the soon-to-be published second edition of the Problem-Solver's Toolkit. Can't wait to hear what they've got to say about that. For Book Buzz - You'll hear about the book, The Creative Act, by Rick Rubin and why it's good for coaches and problem solvers. And for Q&A, the question is, what unconscious rules do we make that hold us back? It's a new year! Let's get into the things that will make it a great year! 0:00 - Intro 1:26 - What's on the menu? 2:11 - Book Buzz The Creative Act by Rick Rubin 9:40 - Q&A "What do you do when leadership won't let go of the reins?" 17:42 -Featured Guest Elisabeth Swan and Tracy O'Rourke 27:50 - Upcoming Events Resources: Multiple-award-winning book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" "5S Baby!" Ms. Fix-a-Lot's latest Lean Rap Video Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/m2F_-DhdK1s Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

Last one of the year! And Today's highlight is our interview with Tracy Defoe the Kata Coach and Adult learning specialist about how changing a label could make the difference between resistance and acceptance of change. For our Book Buzz segment We'll dig into a book that breaks down what your brain is up against when you try to create. And creativity is something every one of us is engaged in every day. And then for Q&A, we asked, how do you influence leadership to let go and invite others to build their skills? It's December–so whether your eggnog is spiked or not—and let's get into this! 0:00 - Intro 1:23 - What's on the menu? 2:24 - Book Buzz The War of Art 13:37 - Q&A "What do you do when leadership won't let go of the reins?" 21:55 -Featured Guest Tracy Defoe 50:54 - Upcoming Events December Webinar: "Lean into AI: Using Artificial Intelligence to Transform Your Work" with Jessica Blake Video Link to Last Month's Webinar: "How to Bring PDCA to Any Industry and Win Converts!", with Jen Tankanow Resources: Multiple-award-winning book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!" "5S Baby!" Ms. Fix-a-Lot's latest Lean Rap Video Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/_KgkSC00pd8 Find us on: Apple Podcasts Podbean Spotify RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 105 and the highlight Tracy & Elisabeth's interview with Meg Brown, Vice President of Human Resources at Cambridge Air Solution, where they've built an amazingly successful Lean culture by combining sheet metal with unconditional love–you know you need to know more about that. For Hot Apps we've got a mobile diary that helps you form a practice of reflection and adjustment. And then for Q&A, we asked, what is it that makes us constantly try to fit 10 pounds of…STUFF… in a 5 pound bag? Come hang at the cafe while we discuss! 0:00 - Intro 1:29 - What's on the menu? 2:18 - Hot Apps Grid Diary 10:34 - Q&A "Do you make plans that are over-optimistic?” 17:33 - Featured Guest Meg Brown - Cambridge Air Solutions 46:14 - Upcoming Events September Webinar: "Stop the Insanity! Unplug Your Materials Resource Planning (MRP)" with Jerry Wright Global Lean Summit Video Link to Last Month's Webinar: "Personal Hoshin Planning: Why Leave Your Future to Luck" Resources: Multiple-award-winning book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!" "5S Baby!" Ms. Fix-a-Lot's latest Lean Rap Video  Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/Hdx0W8LOd64 Find us on: Apple Podcasts Podbean Spotify RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml 

It's Episode 104 and the highlight is our interview with Paul Critchley, the President of New England Lean Consulting where we find out what's in store at the first ever New England Lean Summit this September–there's rumors of a DJ... For Hot Apps, we sampled a platform that could inject a stealth bit of productivity into your family's day-to-day activities. And for Q&A, we asked, “Is there an optimal intersection of fun and productivity?” Is there ever enough fun? Can you have too much? We'll settle that question AND have fun doing it.

It's Episode 103 and the highlight is our interview with Ahren Crickard, the Director of the Center for Operational Excellence at UC San Diego and she'll be sharing all things Process Palooza–the yearly problem-solving festival with the highest octane MC available–a certain Tracy O'Rourke. For Hot Apps, we'll give you our take on a conference app how good it is at networking. And then for Q&A, we pose the question, "How do you feel about getting lost. Is it a failure or an opportunity?" Sit back and enjoy! 0:00 - Intro 1:22 - What's on the menu? 2:02 - Hot Apps Whova 8:45 - Q&A Lost or on an Adventure? 14:49 -Featured Guest Ahren Crickard 38:17 - Upcoming Events August Webinar:  "5S Baby" Spoof Lean Rap Video Reveal Party Resources: Multiple-award-winning book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!"  Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/dnlWoRFetLg Find us on: Apple Podcasts Podbean Spotify RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml 

It's Episode 102 and the highlight is our interview with Maribel Topf the Division Manager of Continuous Improvement at Snap-on Tools author of the new book Process Alchemy–she put all her insights into print and we're going to get a few gems from her. For Hot Apps, we'll cover an app that might help you find space for yourself in your day. And then we'll dig into the question of timing–what happens when we wait for just the right moment?   0:00 - Intro 1:07 - What's on the menu? 1:49 - Hot Apps Headspace 8:39 - Q&A Do It Scared!   12:58 -Featured Guest Maribel Topf Process Alchemy 40:54 - Upcoming Events June Webinar: Rich Data, Poor Data: Elevating Your Data Quality "5S Baby" Spoof Lean Rap Video Reveal Party Resources: Multiple-award-winning book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!"   Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/_0iHbvY9I2o   Find us on: Apple Podcasts Podbean Spotify RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 101 and the highlight is Tracy an Elisabeth's interview with Tracy Minutolo—Head of Operational Excellence at the technology health company Hologic. We'll find out how Tracey morphed from a microbiologist into a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. For Hot Apps, we'll give you our take on a serious rival for ChatGPT—or a perfect companion for Google—or both. And then we'll dig into a question that came up recently about our negativity bias—is it a force for good or evil? In the meantime, fill that mug and get comfy! 0:00 - Intro 1:37 - What's on the menu? 2:23 - Hot Apps Perplexity 9:42 - Q&A Negative bias - a force for Good? 16:00 -Featured Guest Tracey Minutolo 38:48 - Upcoming Events Webinar: Good Data, Poor Data: Elevating Your Data Quality "5S Baby" Spoof Lean Rap Video Reveal Party Resources: Multiple-award-winning book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!"  Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/vIUn3Sa2qTo Find us on: Apple Podcasts Podbean Spotify RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml 

Today's highlight is whisky cocktails! Or the reason behind our whiskey cocktails. In a crossover celebration of 100 Cafe episodes, Tracy and Elisabeth invited their good friends Mark Graban and Jamie Flinchbaugh of the Lean Whiskey podcast to mark this cafe milestone. They're primed to talk all things podcasting. And for a special Hot Apps segment, these four will let you in on their current favorites, so stay tuned for some solid work tips …but with a twist, or possibly a garnish! 0:00 - Intro 1:52 - What's on the menu? 21:06 - Hot Apps Trello Kainexus Asana Evernote Credly 14:49 - Featured Guest My Favorite Mistakes podcast Lean Blog podcast People Solve Problems podcast Picture Yourself a Leader book The Mistakes That Make Us book People Solve Problems book Podcast feed at LeanWhiskey.com or leanblog.org/leanwhiskey or jflinch.com/leanwhiskey 52:25 - Upcoming Events Resources: New Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!" Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/dK24EpHuc_M Find us on: Apple Podcasts Podbean Spotify RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 99 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with Allison Kestenbaum, the Supervisor of Spiritual Care and Clinical Pastoral Education at UC San Diego Health. She just got her Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification so we dig into the intersection of continuous improvement and Spiritual care–that's a new one for everyone out there. For Hot Apps, we'll cover an app that gives you credit—and we all need credit and recognition. Then we'll cover a book that recently got some credit and the author just happens to be one of the hosts of this podcast—so stay tuned for gold-medal reveal! In the meantime, make yourself some Just-in-time coffee and let's roll! 0:00 - Intro 1:15 - What's on the menu? 2:06 - Hot Apps Credly   TKMG Academy   UC San Diego Extended Studies Lean Six Sigma Portfolio 8:52 - Q&A Gold Award Winner for Best Business Book of 2023 14:49 - Featured Guest Allison Kestenbaum 41:25 - Upcoming Events March Webinar: Game On: Unlocking Lean Innovation through Deliberate Play Resources: "Picture Yourself A Leader"—Winner of the International Impact Book Award for Best Leadership Book New Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!" Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/jkk9XjdxzA0 Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 98 and the highlight is Tracy & Elisabeth's interview with Lifesharing's Executive Team—Jeff Trageser and Mike Vazquez. Lifesharing is a nonprofit arm of UC San Diego Health dedicated to organ procurement and—lucky for everyone—they're steeped in continuous improvement. For Hot Apps, we'll cover a networking app you're probably aware of, you might even be using, but are you making the most of it? And for Q&A, we'll discuss the topic of work relationships. Are you a “just-the-facts ma'am” Joe Friday type? If asking people about themselves feels like “fluff” —are you hamstringing your own progress? Tracy and Elisabeth get to the bottom of that and more! 0:00 - Intro 1:18 - What's on the menu? 2:10 - Hot Apps LinkedIn 17:19 - Q&A Doing FLUFF Join the conversation! 25:35 - Featured Guest Intro Jeffry Trageser & Michael Vazquez of LifeSharing 56:45 - Upcoming Events February Webinar 2/28: "Public Relations for a Problem-Solving Culture: Storytelling at Work" Resources: "Picture Yourself A Leader"—Winner of the International Impact Book Award for Best Leadership Book New Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!" Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://www.jitcafe.com/post/lean-life-sharing-making-organ-donation-work-with-jeff-trageser-and-mike-vazquez Find us on: Apple Podcasts Podbean Spotify RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 97 and the  highlight is Tracy & Elisabeth's interview with Cheryl Jekiel, the Founder of Lean Leadership Center, get the scoop on her latest book, Let Go To Lead. Cheryl has a deep background in helping managers go from overpowering to empowering.  For Hot Apps, we're going to delve into an app that's been referred to as your "adjunct brain.” It's a way to hold onto all that stuff you learn and access it when you need it it.  For Q&A, we'll discuss how to take advantage of an age-old truism–”Necessity is the mother of invention”—If that's true, how do we conjure "necessity" when we want to jumpstart innovation? Let's kick this year off! 0:00 - Intro 01:24 - What's on the Menu? 02:30 - Hot Apps Evernote 12:03 - Q&A "Necessity is the Mother of Invention" 20:55 - Featured Guest Cheryl Jekiel 51:34 - Upcoming Events Webinar: "Public Relations for a Problem-Solving Culture: Storytelling at Work" Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://www.jitcafe.com/post/let-go-to-lead-with-cheryl-jekiel Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml 

It's Episode 96 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with Dannette Nelson, the Owner of Stone Soup Diversity. Dannette brings her startup experience and a little Lean Six Sigma sauce to the diversity conversation which has given her tactical insights on ensuring growth. For Hot Apps, we'll end the year with a little Artificial Intelligence duel between two rivals that offer online meeting summaries. And for Q&A, we'll tackle the untapped. People all around us know stuff—stuff we probably want to know. Stuff we need to know. But we often miss what's in front of us. How do we counteract that? 2023 signing off—See you next year at the cafe! 0:00 - Intro 01:23 - What's on the Menu? 02:08 - Hot Apps OtterPilot 09:13 - Q&A "I Know Stuff" 15:18 - Featured Guest Dannette Nelson 44:50 - Upcoming Events "Picture Yourself A Leader"—Winner of the International Impact Book Award for Best Leadership Book New Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!" Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://www.jitcafe.com/post/lean-stone-soup-diversity-with-dannette-nelson   Find us on: Apple Podcasts Podbean Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's episode 95 and the highlight is Tracy & Elisabeth's interview with Rich Sheridan, the CEO and Chief Storyteller at Menlo Innovations. Rich's ingeniously Lean-incognito workplace sparks joy in all who enter. Menlo recovered from Covid with their best year to date, and Rich explains why. For Hot Apps, the AI exploration continues. This time it's some free help with project presentations. And for Q&A it's the Praise Paradox. We all want to be acknowledged, but we don't often see ourselves as the source of praise for others. Why is that, and what can we do about it?   0:00 - Intro 01:23 - What's on the Menu? 02:32 - Hot Apps SlidesAI.io (Chrome Extension) 10:09 - Q&A "How do you handle the Praise Paradox?" 19:58 - Featured Guest Rich Sheridan 46:46 - Upcoming Events New Workshop 10/24: "Value Stream Mapping Unleashed" October Webinar 10/19: "Causal Reasoning: Lean Special Sauce for Root Cause Analysis" New Bestselling Book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" New Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!"   Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://www.jitcafe.com/post/running-the-experiments-at-menlo-innovations-with-rich-sheridan   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 94 and the highlight is Tracy & Elisabeth's interview with Krista Schulte, the Assistant Director of Operational Excellence for the University of Michigan. Krista gave us a glimpse into how Lean gains traction in higher education. For Hot Apps, we'll delve into Artificial Intelligence again–and the results are real–and really useful. We'll tell you how to use it for problem-solving change management. And for Q&A, we touch on the temptation to do things ourselves even when we sacrifice collaboration.   0:00 - Intro 01:33 - What's on the Menu? 02:21 - Hot Apps Writesonic 12:33 - Q&A "What is the cost of working in isolation?" 17:59 - Featured Guest Krista Schulte 41:50 - Upcoming Events September Webinar: "Value Stream Mapping: Charting the Course & Unveiling the Power" New Bestselling Book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" New Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!"   Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://www.jitcafe.com/post/when-strategy-vision-and-queens-convene-with-deondra-wardelle   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's episode 93 and the highlight is Tracy & Elisabeth's interview with the internet doyenne, Deondra Wardelle. We explore the intersection she's created between Vision, Strategy, and Continuous Improvement—and maybe tiaras For Hot Apps, Deondra is sitting in as our guest reviewer to showcase an app that helps you with the elusive goal of staying on top of everything and get stuff done with other people. And for Q&A, we touch on an issue that came up during our recent livestream session–how do leaders form bonds with workers when workloads seem to get in the way? It's an iced coffee day at the Cafe!   0:00 - Intro 01:11 - What's on the Menu? 02:11 - Hot Apps Basecamp 16:25 - Q&A "How can leaders form relationships with their staff when workloads seem to get in the way?" 22:05 - Featured Guest Deondra Wardelle 50:10 - Upcoming Events August Webinar: "The Triple Win: Designing Work that Delivers for Everyone" Lean Leadership Workshop at UC San Diego in August New Bestselling Book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" New Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!"   Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/Vno832Cs5Rs   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 92 and the highlight is Tracy & Elisabeth's interview with powerhouse author Mark Graban. They dig into his latest book that just hit the bookshelves—The Mistakes that Make Us. They delve into how he turned an innovative podcast into a bestselling workplace culture guide. For Hot Apps we highlight a way to use your phone and friends to build your habits of excellence. And for Q&A we address the challenge of showcasing the return on investment, ROI, of continuous improvement. Each improvement effort is an asset, and yet when budgets get tight, dispensing with Lean Six Sigma can be seen as a cost-saving maneuver. We'll discuss why that happens, and what you can do about it.   0:00 - Intro 01:20 - What's on the Menu? 02:11 - Hot Apps HabitShare 09:20 - Q&A "How to connect finance with problem solvers" 17:27 - Featured Guest Mark Graban Buy the book, The Mistakes That Make Us 51:39 - Upcoming Events July Webinar: "Strategic Innovation: Empowering Changemakers" Lean Leadership Workshop at UC San Diego in August New Bestselling Book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" New Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!"   Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/N4x8KhntGxM   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 91 and the highlight is Tracy's interview with Rachel and Christian Ahlmann. They own a winery that answers the question, what if you combined Six Sigma with fermentation? The most efficient venue for growing, bottling, and tasting in Northern California! For Hot Apps we're highlighting the e-gathering spot for the gig economy—named after the idea that $5 is an excellent place to start. And for Q&A we address the issue of myths and misinformation—do you know the source of the facts you're citing?   0:00 - Intro 01:29 - What's on the Menu? 02:11 - Hot Apps Fiverr 08:55 - Q&A "Do you know the source of the facts you're citing?" 16:13 - Featured Guest Christian & Rachel Ahlmann Six Sigma Ranch & Winery 48:27 - Upcoming Events June 22 Webinar: "Creativity: Gift, Necessary Skill, or Superpower?" Lean Leadership Workshop at UC San Diego in August New Bestselling Book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" New Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!"   Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/x_eSbW7ZY64   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 90 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with a kindred Lean spirit and author, Katie Labedz! She's written a couple of very accessible books and they uncover her secrets to helping ordinary people apply Lean to places you wouldn't expect. And for Q&A we tackle the paradoxical reality of leaders who don't see themselves…as leaders. Why does that happen and how do you address it?   0:00 - Intro 01:26 - What's on the Menu? 02:04 - Q&A Do you see yourself as a leader? 09:22 - Featured Guest Katie Labedz 34:50 - Upcoming Events May 25 Webinar: How to Use Knowledge Management for Organizational Good with Cindy Young Lean Leadership Workshop at UC San Diego in August New Bestselling Book, "Picture Yourself A Leader" New Lean Parody Video, "Baby Got Tools!"   Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/v2EVg6BJU7A   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 89 and the highlight is Elisabeth and Tracy! They were so excited that they completely hijacked the podcast, so this month's episode is dedicated to the cafe founders. Elisabeth discovers what led to Tracy's internet-busting lean parody music video, and Tracy grills Elisabeth about her brand new Lean leadership book! Listen in for the behind-the-scenes stories and get the scoop on upcoming events for these two. It's all happening at the cafe! 0:00 - Intro 00:38 - What's on the Menu? 01:15 - Featured Guests Elisabeth Swan Tracy O'Rourke 28:20 - Upcoming Events April 19 Book Launch: Invitation to the Book Launch Party for Picture Yourself a Leader by Elisabeth Swan April 21 Webinar: "Stay 'Flowcused': Use Lean Thinking to Go from Overwhelm to Flow" with Stefany Oliver Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/df23qLXJ4ko   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 88 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with Miguel Rodriguez. Miguel is the Educational Technology Analyst in charge of Communication for this year's Process Palooza—UC San Diego's signature live, Lean Six Sigma Competition. He's also been a contestant so we'll hear his take on this crazy improvement festival. For Hot Apps we're highlighting red-hot Artificial Intelligence—Depending on who you talk to it's either a godsend of information, or the reason college students will never learn to write. And for Q&A we address the issue of expectations with improvement. Is it okay to improve things a little bit, or do you need to push for big dollar savings? What's the right approach?   It's another great day at the cafe! 0:00 - Intro 01:25 - What's on the Menu? 02:23 - Hot Apps ChatGPT 07:04 - Q&A Is it okay for improvements to be small? Should there be a minimum threshold for dollar savings? 13:21 - Featured Guest Miguel Rodriguez 41:08 - Upcoming Events March 16 Webinar: Five Ways to Build a Healthy Workplace with Kim Crowder March 30 Webinar: Salsa and Standard Work: : Why You Need Recipes, and How to Write Them with Hugh Alley   Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/P90h-74ZEPM   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's episode 87, and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with Dr. Eric Cunningham, the dynamic Superintendent for Halifax County, North Carolina. He's got some inspiring insights on how to build problem solvers in education. He knows what it means to meet people where they are. For Hot Apps we're highlighting one that's right under your nose—and you might not be using it to your advantage. And for Q&A we address the issue of culture—It's a contact sport, so why are people afraid to engage? It's another great day at the cafe! It's another great day at the cafe! 0:00 - Intro 01:38 - What's on the Menu? 02:18 - Hot Apps Your calendar! 07:05 - Q&A How do we remind people that culture is a contact sport? 13:15 - Featured Guest Dr. Eric Cunningham 43:30 - Upcoming Events Webinar: Five Ways to Build a Healthy Workplace   Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/ACpzNRi4VHQ Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 86 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with power consultant Karen Martin. A prolific author and longtime Lean Six Sigma juggernaut—Karen opens up about principles and educational science that form the backbone of her TKMG Academy. For Hot Apps we suss out a diagnostic toolset that uses data to helps you build stronger teams. And for Q&A we address the issue of one-and-done problem solvers. Once they've been through a workshop–and maybe received a coveted certificate–how do you leverage Lean-Six-Sigma trained employees into consistent contributors? Happy New Year to the Just-in-Time Cafe Community! 0:00 - Intro 01:15 - What's on the Menu? 02:08 - Hot Apps Valence 07:15 - Q&A How do you leverage Lean Six Sigma-trained employees into consistent contributors? 18:51 - Featured Guest Karen Martin 46:26 - Upcoming Events Lean Communication Systems that Build Engagement & Trust   Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/wirJOjgq0fk Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 85 and the highlight is our interview with the effervescent Billy Ray Taylor where we discuss his new book The Winning Link. Billy is charismatic, plain-spoken, his retirement got short-circuited by his amazing ability to help build high-performing cultures. For Hot Apps we're highlighting a Daily Standup Meeting bot that synchronizes remote teams. And for Q&A we tapped into a leadership discussion about overcoming the biggest barriers to Lean Transformation.   Don't miss this last episode of the year! 0:06 - Intro 1:19 - What's On the Menu 1:58 - Hot Apps Geekbot 7:22 - Q&A - "Where does the Organization need the most help?" 14:02 - Featured Guest - Billy Taylor The Winning Link by Billy Ray Taylor on Amazon Billy Ray Taylor on LinkedIn 45:50 - Upcoming Events December 1st Webinar: "Map Your Processes to Unite Silos and Drive Success”   Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/J1-tsF4lJx8   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 84 and the highlight is Tracy & Elisabeth's interview with Lean practitioner Arnout Orelio who's latest book, Lean Thinking for Emerging Healthcare Leaders, is coming out this fall. Great insights on what makes improvements "stick" in healthcare. For Hot Apps we spotlight a super-basic digital whiteboard that adds simple sparks to collaboration. And for Q&A we asked our community about giving credit—it's often what people care most about –so why doesn't it happen enough?   Tune in and Tracy and Elisabeth will give you the credit you deserve! 0:06 - Intro 1:24 - What's On the Menu 2:10 - Hot Apps Google Jamboard 6:52 - Q&A - "Give People Ctedit - it's Free!" Join the conversation on LinkedIn (click the link)! 15:37 - Featured Guest - Arnout Orelio Lean Thinking In Healthcare 43:44 - Upcoming Events September 15th Webinar: "Idea Boards - Costco's Key To Lean Employee Engagement”   Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/kiceLshXwLg   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 83 and the highlight is Tracy's interview with AME President Kimberlee Humphrey. We'll get an inside look at the Association for Manufacturing Excellence, what's in store for the Dallas conference, and how Kimberlee is changing the status quo. For Hot Apps we'll review a remote technique for supporting teams in their quest for reflection and growth. And for Q&A we asked our community how they resist giving advice when it might rob others of the chance to learn and grow. It's post labor day at the cafe, are you still wearing white?!   Timeline 0:06 - Intro 1:22 - What's On the Menu 2:05 - Hot Apps Starfish Retrospective 7:31 - Q&A - How Do You Resist Offering Advice? Join the conversation on LinkedIn (click the link)! 13:24 - Featured Guest - Kimberlee Humphrey President of AME 33:30 - Upcoming Events September 15th Webinar: "Zero In on Improvement Opportunities with 'Heat Maps'” Fall Semester of "Lean Six Sigma Leadership" at UC San Diego: Lean Six Sigma Leadership   Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/vLG-MToG2zk   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 82 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with the host of the Lean Leadership for Ops Managers Podcast, Jamie Parker. She calls herself a "Recovering Command & Control" manager and we'll find out how she uses that experience to help other leaders. Next up we've invited a power user to tell us about an app that helps you gather onsite data in an instant. And for Q&A we asked our community if they ever realized the best thing to do was to get out of the way.   It's a good day to be at the cafe!   Timeline 0:06 - Intro 01:51 - What's On The Menu 02:33 - Hot Apps iAuditor by SafetyCulture 17:02 - Q&A - Are You In The Way? Join the conversation on LinkedIn (click the link)! 24:37 - Featured Guest - Jamie V. Parker 51:33 - Upcoming Events August 25 Webinar with Denver Peak Academy: "Building a Strategic Plan for Lean Transformation" Lean Six Sigma Leadership Course at UC San Diego: Lean Six Sigma Leadership   Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/94MxitVyZ70   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's episode 81 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with Visionary Leader Deondra Wardelle. They uncover how this Toyota Kata practitioner has put her considerable problem-solving skills to work supporting the #RootCauseRacism movement. Next up we'll review an app that lets you collect, share, evaluate, experiment, incubate, & develop the best ideas in your organization. And for Q&A we asked our community if they ever got their customers “wrong.” Apparently that happens a lot more than you might think.   There's a lot going on at the cafe!   Timeline 0:06 - Intro 01:30 - What's On The Menu 02:10 - Hot Apps BrightIdea.com 07:36 - Q&A - Getting the Customer Wrong Join the conversation on LinkedIn (click the link)! 18:01 - Featured Guest - Deondra Wardelle 50:14 - Upcoming Events July 21 Webinar - "Building Teams: Be Intentional & Get Better Results" This September: Lean Six Sigma Leader course at UC San Diego   Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/n3TvJ6EhngA   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's episode 80 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with Business Consultant Thomas Bertals. As the host of the "Work Matters" Podcast, he's developed a way to address the "Big Quit" with a novel problem-solving approach. For "Hot Apps" we review a bare-bones, no frills "post-it" app that lets you brainstorm across oceans. And for Q&A we asked our community how they helped people navigate the “messy middle” of process improvement.   More crowd-sourced wisdom for the cafe community.   Timeline 0:06 - Intro 01:28 - What's On The Menu 02:13 - Hot Apps The Ideazboardz.com 07:45 - Q&A - The Messy Middle Join the conversation on LinkedIn (click the link)! 15:54 - Featured Guest - Thomas Bertels 41:56 - Upcoming Events June 16 Interactive Session - "The 9th 'Invisible' Waste—How You Show Up Matters" This September: Lean Six Sigma Leader course at UC San Diego Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/n3TvJ6EhngA   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 79 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with Executive Leadership Coach Rebecca Snelling. As a board member of the Lean Construction Institute, she's seen what makes the Lean path work in the building industry. Next up it's an app that provides an antidote to corporate silos. And on the same crucial topic, we asked our problem-solving community, “What have you seen that helps break down organizational silos?”   Come tap into the inspiring reflections, and crowd-sourced countermeasures at the cafe!   Timeline 0:06 - Intro 01:28 - What's On The Menu 02:10 - Hot Apps Monday.com 07:18 - Q&A - Silos Happen Join the conversation on LinkedIn (click the link)! 12:53 - Featured Guest - Rebecca Snelling 41:56 - Upcoming Events May 19 Interactive Session - "Standard Work: Defining the Missing Lean Link" Lean Six Sigma Leader course at UC San Diego Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/tlqpwJ46MIw   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 78 and today's highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with author Brion Hurley—host of the Lean Six Sigma for Good podcast. Brion is a Master Black Belt by day, but in his spare time he has dedicated himself to a book series documenting stories of Lean Six Sigma success in the nonprofit world—and that's good news for everybody! Next up we review an app that helps you dot your “i”s and cross your “t”s. And for Q&A, we asked our problem-solving community, “How do you make sure you make improvements “with” people instead of “to” them?” And our community responded!   Enjoy another great day at the cafe.   Timeline 0:06 - Intro 01:39 - What's On The Menu 02:19 - Hot Apps Todoist 09:26 - Q&A - Should you base an improvement effort on survey results? Join the conversation on LinkedIn (click the link)! 17:23 - Featured Guest - Brion Hurley 49:50 - Upcoming Events April 21 Webinar - "Hot Tips and Activities for Lean Facilitators to Increase Team Engagement" Lean Six Sigma Leader course at UC San Diego Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/2nRNdtzCKkg   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 77 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with Pilar Zimmerman, Operational Excellence Senior Manager at Illumina. Pilar helps drive strategy deployment and Continuous Improvement at Illumina's San Diego site. Next up it's an app that enhances any media with intuitive visuals that champion diversity. And for Q&A, we asked our problem-solving community if there were any downsides to using survey data to measure process improvement. The community weighed in on data, bias and going to the Gemba.   It's an enlightening day at the cafe!   Timeline 0:06 - Intro 01:27 - What's On The Menu 02:12 - Hot Apps The Noun Project 08:27 - Q&A - Should you base an improvement effort on survey results? Join the conversation on LinkedIn (click the link)! 15:32 - Featured Guest - Pilar Zimmerman 47:15 - Upcoming Events March 17th Interactive Session - "A Financial Services Lean Six Sigma Interactive Story - Guess the Solution!" Lean Six Sigma Leader course at UC San Diego Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/KXziSZd6uVY   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 76 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with Gemma Jones, one of the founders of the Kata Girl Geeks. Gemma has developed a way to mobilize continuous improvement practitioners to help underserved and at-risk members of society, and she shares it for the first time ever at the cafe. Next up it's an app that helps you do more...by doing nothing. And for Q&A, we asked our problem-solving community how they escape the impulse to compare themselves to others. They all told us they were better than us—kidding! They gave us some great techniques to avoid the trap of “compare & despair” …and how to stay focused on their own crucial work.   Life-changing tips a the cafe!   Timeline 0:06 - Intro 01:29 - What's On The Menu 02:22 - Hot Apps Calm 08:02 - Q&A - How do you escape the impulse to compare yourself to others? Join the conversation on LinkedIn (click the link)! 15:36 - Featured Guest - Gemma Jones 42:38 - Upcoming Events February 24th Webinar - "How to Make It Easy for People to Master Continuous Improvement" with guest host Amanda Zimmerman Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/hp-yD3HIne4   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 75, and Tracy and Elisabeth got to talk money with Nick Katko and Mike DeLuca, co-authors of the new book, “Practicing Lean Accounting”. Mike and Nick are a seasoned duo, and they offered insights into the biggest source of waste in accounting processes—no, it's not money. Next up it's an app that sets you up to be a rockstar team builder. And for Q&A, our problem-solving community weighed in on how to deal with the classic “solution masquerading as a problem” known as “lack of training.”   Don't miss this New Year's treat!   Timeline 0:06 - Intro 01:50 - What's On The Menu 02:30 - Hot Apps Confetti: https://www.withconfetti.com/ 07:02 - Q&A - How do you deal with "lean thinking" mentality? Join the conversation on LinkedIn (click the link)! 16:29 - Featured Guest - Nick Katko & Mike De Luca Get Nick and Mike's Book on Amazon. 45:44 - Upcoming Events January 20th Webinar (click to register) - Sunitha Narayanan UC San Diego Leadership Course Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/nD7RW4lZOwM   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 74 and Tracy and Elisabeth got to interview Dr. Sabiha Mumtaz from the University of Wollongong in Dubai. She's got an innovative strategy for lifting women into leadership positions in the United Arab Emirates. Next up it's a cool tool that lets you load videos, animation and an unlimited supply of presentation goodies into your PowerPoints. And for Q&A, they asked our problem-solving community if anyone had attempted to bring Lean into their homes—and what happened if they did.   It's a great day at the cafe! 0:00 - Intro 1:32 - What's On The Menu 2:13 - Hot Apps Presenter Media: https://www.presentermedia.com/ 5:09 - Q&A - Have you used Lean at home? 17:17 - Featured Guest - Sabiha Mumtaz 46:17 - Upcoming Events December Webinar - https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0pc-yqqDorE9Bfxw8VBYUsch8BZNJ9zw-8 UC San Diego Leadership Course: https://extension.ucsd.edu/courses-and-programs/lean-six-sigma-leadership Thanks for Listening!   Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com.   Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/-z5pLfKWT0c   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's episode 73 and today's highlight is our interview with Karyn Ross, author of her latest book, The Kind Leader. During the writing of her book, Karyn asked people to define “kindness”—she did not expect what she heard, so Tracy and Elisabeth get to the bottom of that. Next up it's an app that provides you with professional presentation graphics to edit, refine and build on. And for Q&A, we asked our problem-solving community how they deal with the new work-from-home culture—and the rise of people being "on" 24-7. The joint is jumpin' so get in on the conversation at the cafe! 0:00 - Intro 01:55 - What's On The Menu? 02:42 - Hot Apps SlideModel: https://slidemodel.com/ 08:10 - Station ID - Swan 08:20 - Q&A - How do you handle work-from-home culture? Join the conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/elisabethswan_workfromhome-culturematters-activity-6851167078334947328-0R-k 18:16 - Station ID - O'Rourke 19:59 - Featured Guest - Karyn Ross Karyn's book: https://www.amazon.com/Kind-Leader-Practical-Eliminating-Creating-ebook/dp/B09977BVVT/ 50:59 - Upcoming Events Register for our December Webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_b3Tcmfk6QIWQwzn9at0Ebw UC San Diego Leadership Course: https://extension.ucsd.edu/courses-and-programs/lean-six-sigma-leadership Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/-z5pLfKWT0c   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 72, and today's highlight is our interview with Jamie Flinchbaugh, author of the new book, People Solve Problems. He's got a different take on the crux of problem solving, it's not PDCA, it's not tools, and it's not methods. Jamie's an engaging raconteur so Tracy and Elisabeth enjoyed a spirited discussion about his book, Lean Whisky, and the nature of success. Next up it's an app that can turn the average presenter into a super trainer with the ability to detect what's of value to participants. And for Q&A, we reached out to our community for advice on dealing with tough issues—how to address problems without stepping on people.   There is a colorful fall turning all things orange at the Cafe!   Timeline 0:06 - Intro: What's in store 2:40 - Hot Apps SLIDO helps trainers draw students into their lessons Try it here: https://www.sli.do/ 7:42 - Q&A Question: How do you address problems without stepping on people? 17:03 - Featured Guest Interview with Jamie Flinchbaugh - Author, People Solve Problems Click here to pre-order Jamie's book 47:58 - Upcoming Events Webinar September 9th with Dorsey Sherman: Click here to register Podcast November: Interview with Karyn Ross Register: Lean Six Sigma Leadership Workshop at UC San Diego Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/b4hf-83PRjw   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 71 and Tracy & Elisabeth get some time with Hugh Alley, author of “Becoming the Supervisor: Achieving Your Company's Mission and Building Your Team.” They get insights on how organizations can better tap people's innate love of doing worthwhile work. For "Hot Apps" it's an app that turns even hopeless scribblers into artists. And for Q&A, we asked our community how they avoid crushing the spirits of others when what they want to say is, "are you kidding me?!"   Don't miss the last episode of the summer!   Timeline 0:06 - Intro: What's in store 2:00 - Hot Apps Canva turns anyone into an artist 6:12 - Q&A Question: How do you respond when you're frustrated? 15:09 - Featured Guest Interview with Hugh Alley - Author, Becoming The Supervisor 50:42 - Upcoming Events Webinar September 9th: Activate the Leader Within: Master Your Influence Podcast October: Interview with Dr. Sabiha Mumtaz Register: Lean Six Sigma Leadership Workshop at UC San Diego Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/b4hf-83PRjw   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's Episode 70 and today's highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with Debbie Barnard, a 20-year process improvement veteran in the healthcare industry on assignment in Dubai—she's got a surprise project you'll find out about. We'll let you in on an App that turns you into a presentation superstar. And for Q&A, we asked our community how they got their best ideas. We found new techniques and some wild answers. It's another great day at the cafe!   Timeline 0:06 - Intro: What's in store 2:03 - Hot Apps Prezi has updated their presentation game 6:30 - Q&A Question: How do you get your best ideas? 16:43 - Featured Guest Interview with Debbie Barnard - Lean Healthcare Leader 43:40 - Upcoming Events Webinar August 5th: The 5 Habits of Highly Effective Lean Leaders Workshop August 18th: In the Moment - Using Improve as a People Skill   Find us on: - Apple Podcasts - Stitcher - Podbean - Spotify - RSS Feed: https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml

It's episode 69 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with Katie Anderson, author of Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn chronicling her conversations with former Toyota leader, Isao Yoshino. We're celebrating the book's one-year anniversary and a lot has happened since then. We'll let you in on a fun App that united a remote work team better than when they worked in person. And for Q&A, we asked our community how they retained what they wanted to know. Journals, phones, drama, and digital pens are just a few of the techniques we heard about. It's a great day at the cafe!   Timeline 2:37 Hot Apps "Jackbox" is a party game that brings remote teams together. 8:16 Q&A Question: What habits do you have to remember what you want to know? 18:06 Featured Guest Interview with Katie Anderson, author of Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn 47:01 Upcoming Events: Webinar July 8th: How to Learn Toyota Kata and Add Every-Day Improvement to your Lean Practice Webinar July 22nd: How to Create Psychological Safety at Work Using the 5C's   Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/DCRettwu7Vk

It's episode 69 and the highlight is Tracy and Elisabeth's interview with Katie Anderson, author of Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn chronicling her conversations with former Toyota leader, Isao Yoshino. We're celebrating the book's one-year anniversary and a lot has happened since then. We'll let you in on a fun App that united a remote work team better than when they worked in person. And for Q&A, we asked our community how they retained what they wanted to know. Journals, phones, drama, and digital pens are just a few of the techniques we heard about. It's a great day at the cafe!   Timeline 2:30 Hot Apps "Kudoboard" lets you send kudos for a job well done with gifs, videos, and text. 6:00 Q&A Question: What techniques do you use to make standard work successful at home? 15:35 Featured Guest Interview with Jeff Toister, author of The Guaranteed Customer Experience 43:39 Upcoming Events: Webinar June 10th: How To Use Lean Thinking To Create an Antiracist Organization Webinar June 24th: How To Use Task Cards to Create Better Leader Behavior Next Podcast Episode July: Katie Anderson, author of Learning To Lead, Leading To Learn (1 year anniversary) UC San Diego Class starts June 15th: Lean Six Sigma Leadership Workshop: In the Moment: Using Improv as a People Skill   Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: https://youtu.be/yfd6dWJV5c4

It's Episode 67 and Tracy and Elisabeth get the scoop from Brian Hand and Lilly Angelocci of UC San Diego Health. We'll get details of what drove the success of the vaccine super stations and how they've been improving healthcare with Lean. We'll let you in on an App that allows you to do real-time polling and cutting edge audience engagement techniques, and for Q&A, We'll address the fact that reading a book doesn't guarantee you'll remember anything from it...and what you can do about that! We're double-vaxed and ready for anything at the cafe! Also Listen On: Stitcher, Apple Podcasts and Spotify Timeline  • 2:18 Hot Apps: "Mentimeter" uses word clouds and innovative interactions to drive engagement  • 6:17 Q&A: What's the best way to remember the books we read?  • 12:36 Featured Guests: Interview with Lilly Angelocci and Brian Hand of UC San Diego Health  • 49:42 Upcoming Events:  ◦ Webinar: How To Solve Complex Problems in a Virtual Lean Environment  ◦ Next Podcast Episode: Debbie Barnard of the Joint Commission International  ◦ UC San Diego Course: Lean Six Sigma Leadership ◦  Workshop: In the Moment: Using Improv as a People Skill Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts at JITCafe.com. Link to the video version of this podcast: Inventing a Lean Vaccine Super Station, Featuring Lilly Angelocci and Brian Hand

It's Episode 66 and Tracy & Elisabeth find out how the San Diego Humane Society won the "Top Workplace" Award. Organizational leaders Audrey Lang and Tina Nguyen describe how their care-centered culture improves their ability to rehabilitate animals while simultaneously driving improvement efforts with employee "bliss." We'll let you in on an app we're using to jazz up learner engagement and for Q&A we'll dig into a paradox: The opposite of talking isn't listening, it's waiting to talk. Come enjoy spring at the cafe! Also Listen On: Apple Podcasts, Stitcher and Spotify Timeline  • 2:00 Hot Apps: "Kahoot!" amps learner engagement with competition  • 6:45 Q&A: “Is the opposite of listening waiting to talk?”  • 16:57 Featured Guest Interview: Audrey Lang & Tina Nguyen of The San Diego Humane Society  • 49:42 Upcoming Events:  ◦ Webinar: How the Shingo Model Can Revolutionize Your Culture  ◦ UC San Diego Course: Lean Six Sigma Leadership ◦ Next Podcast Episode: Brian Hand and Lilly Angelocci of UC San Diego Health Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts and stay tuned for more events by subscribing to JITCafe.com The Video Podcast: Care for People & Animals Drives Award-Winning Improvement, featuring Audrey Lang and Tina Nguyen is posted on JITCafe.com.

It's Episode 65 and 16 years later, The Iconic Toyota Way gets a remodel. In this month's interview, author Jeff Liker discusses his coffee talks with former student Mike Rother that led to a second edition. Tune in for Jeff's take on artificial intelligence, Toyota Kata and grit. For our In The News segment, we'll highlight how Lean Six Sigma supported UC San Diego Health's collaboration with the San Diego Padres to hit the goal of getting the entire city vaccinated. For Q&A we'll answer a question about the impact of COVID-19 on productivity: Has it gone up or down? And then we'll tell you all about upcoming webinars and courses. It's warm at the cafe—so stick around! Also Listen On: Apple Podcasts, Stitcher and Spotify Timeline  • 2:20 In The News: UC San Diego Health and the San Diego Padres create a vaccine superstation  • 4:40 Q&A  ◦ “Has productivity decreased during the pandemic?”  • 10:40 Featured Guest  ◦ Interview with Jeff Liker, Author of The Toyota Way, second edition  • 49:42 Upcoming Events  ◦ Webinar: How Lean Six Sigma Problem Solvers can Hone their People Skills  ◦ UC San Diego Course: Lean Six Sigma Leadership Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts. The Video Podcast: Just-In-Time Cafe, Episode 65 –The Toyota Way Brings Kata Into the Mix, Featuring Jeff Liker is posted on JITCafe.com.

It's Episode 64 of the Just-in-Time Cafe Podcast! Is creativity seen as "fluffy?" Is Six Sigma seen as "old hat?" Are you struggling to reconcile creativity with Lean problem solving? Check out this month's interview with Bella Englebach, who's new book, Creatively Lean, guides problem solvers to be better innovators. For our “Hot Apps” segment we'll cover one of the virtual white boards that people are buzzing about since they can't gather around a flip chart. And for Q&A, we'll answer a question about alternatives to a controversial word, “countermeasure.” Okay, we started that controversy, but it's true--people want alternatives! There's a line out the door, but if you put something in a mug you can join us from your couch! Timeline  • 1:55 Hot Apps: Virtual White Board—MURAL  • 5:58 Q&A  ◦ “How do you feel about the word, 'countermeasure'?”  • 10:40 Featured Guest  ◦ Interview with Bella Englebach, Author of Creatively Lean  • 41:41 Upcoming Events  ◦ Webinar: How to Apply Visionary Planning to Personal Goal Setting  ◦ Webinar: How Lean Six Sigma Problem Solvers Can Hone their People Skills  ◦ Next Podcast Episode: Interview with Jeff Liker, Author of the new second edition of The Toyota Way   Thanks for Listening! Listen to more podcasts. Find us on:  - Apple Podcasts - Spotify - Stitcher - RSS Feed:  https://feed.podbean.com/JITCafe/feed.xml Subscribe to get all the latest resources at JITCafe.com

It's Episode 63 of the Just-in-Time Cafe Podcast! Come join Tracy O'Rourke and Elisabeth Swan for a relaunch of their beloved Continuous Improvement gabfest. The highlight is their interview with Brett Cooper and Evans Kerrigan, Co-Founders of Integris Performance Advisors where they discuss their new book, “The People Problem”. They've come up with some tactical steps we can take to improve our EQ (Emotional Intelligence) and solve one of the biggest problems in organizations today.   For the "In The News" segment, Tracy describes what's happening at Kitchens for Good. A San Diego nonprofit that is both feeding and employing those in need. They are attracting a lot of local Lean talent who are applying process improvement so this nonprofit can make the most of its resources. And for Q&A, they'll answer a question about the success of the recent trend toward remote Lean events. Come join them for a jolt of Lean caffeine. It's a great day back at the cafe!