Podcasts about process improvement

Amanda Finnerty shares her unconventional journey from humble beginnings and early kitchen jobs to leading technology at a construction company. Recorded on a cold New England morning, Amanda discusses her strong work ethic, adaptability, and the impact of mentorship. She reflects on career pivots, the value of learning from setbacks, and how embracing challenges—like the COVID-19 pandemic—can drive growth. Amanda offers practical advice for those starting their careers: try new paths, leverage your strengths, and prioritize both personal happiness and workplace culture.   Click here to follow her on LinkedIn

When you hear the word sustainability, what comes to mind first?If it's recycling, you're not alone. But sustainability is far bigger—and more complex—than end-point solutions that address the symptoms of deeper problems. As this episode reveals, sustainability efforts—like many major transformations, including lean—don't stall because leaders don't care. They stall because of an execution gap: the gap between what organizations say matters and what actually shows up in daily work, decisions, and priorities.In this episode of Chain of Learning, I'm joined by Rose Heathcote, sustainability expert, lean adviser, and author, to explore sustainability as a leadership and transformation challenge, not just an environmental one.Together, we discuss why sustainability often lives in strategy decks and slogans, but struggles to take root in everyday work, and how leaders can shift their focus upstream to close that gap: to how work is designed, how problems are framed, and how people learn to see new kinds of waste and impact.This conversation goes beyond sustainability to address a pattern that shows up in any transformation—lean, AI-enabled change, or building a people-first learning organization. If you're working to close the gap between intention and execution, this episode offers perspective and practical starting points for leading meaningful change that lasts.You'll Learn:What sustainability really means—and why it's often treated as an aspiration instead of embedded in daily workWhat the sustainability execution gap is, and why it mirrors lean and culture-change failuresWhy shifting problem-solving upstream—from symptoms to root causes—is critical for creating lasting impactHow lean thinking and problem-solving skills enable sustainability and organizational transformation when paired with influence and change leadership skillsWhy speaking the language of business matters for gaining leadership buy-in—and how AI can be used as a thinking partner to support systems thinking and better decisionsABOUT MY GUEST:Rose Heathcote is a speaker, adviser, and Chartered Environmentalist who works at the intersection of Lean thinking and sustainability. She is the founder of Thinking People and the author of "Green Is the New Gold." With decades of experience supporting organizations across industries and regions, Rose focuses on helping leaders move sustainability from aspiration to everyday practice through systems thinking, problem-solving, and people-centered change.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/63 Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comConnect with Rose Heathcote: linkedin.com/in/rose-heathcote Follow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonDownload my free KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst Learn more about Rose's book, “Green is the New Gold”: learn.thinking-people.co.uk/courses/green-is-the-new-gold Learn more about my Japan Leadership Experience: kbjanderson.com/japantrip TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:01:04 Why the real challenge with sustainability starts with where the conversation begins02:39 A broader definition of sustainability meeting the needs of people, planet, and future generations04:16 Why people mistake sustainability for “recycling”05:54 The execution gap lean leaders keep running into07:43 A real-world example: when “people first” and sustainability don't show up in the metrics09:58 Important shifts leaders must make to close the execution gap11:26 Seeing waste, energy loss, and impact through a green lens14:06 Using AI as a thinking partner, not a replacement15:16 The skills leaders must develop in an AI-driven world16:41 How multidisciplinary thinking led to a smarter, more sustainable solution19:19 Why sustainability requires systems thinking across the value chain20:23 How to make progress towards big challenges23:05 The meaning of the Japanese concept, “sanpo yori” and “yanpo yori” for goodness in four ways and happiness for the long term view24:33 How the book “Green is the New Gold,” came to be27:10 Three ways to build better products and be more efficient while reducing impacts on the planet29:19 What we are doing well as a global community to make improvements towards sustainability31:31 How to broaden your lens and use what you already know to do more good32:35 Practical first steps lean leaders can take to apply a sustainability lens at work34:29 Why productivity alone doesn't reduce damage to the environment36:45 A simple reflection on looking upstream to improve sustainability

In this episode, Tommy sits down with Wes Morin, Vice President of Operations at AquiSense, a Kentucky-based water technology company recently named Small Manufacturer of the Year by the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers (KAM).AquiSense is a global leader in UV-LED water disinfection technology, designing and manufacturing systems that help provide safe, clean water across residential, commercial, industrial, and humanitarian applications.AquiSense earned the KAM Small Manufacturer of the Year Award for its innovation, operational excellence, and impact in the water technology space. Under Wes's operational leadership, the company has successfully scaled advanced manufacturing processes while maintaining quality, efficiency, and a culture of continuous improvement.From product development to production execution, AquiSense has demonstrated how a small manufacturer can compete — and lead — on a global stage. Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state's manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it's advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, hosts G Mark Hardy and Ross Young discuss the extensive redesign at CISO Tradecraft and introduce a series of free cybersecurity tools and templates available on their website. The tools, created with the help of AI, range from a Cybersecurity Budget Template and Gen AI Risk Assessment to a Personal Values Exercise and Process Improvement exercise. They also cover topics such as AI coding, CMMC Compliance, Cloud Security Alliance's AI Control Matrix, and the Cyber Six Pack for improving vulnerability management. Additionally, they share insights on tools rationalization exercises, such as the cybersecurity murder board, and the importance of aligning tasks with personal values. Tune in for detailed walkthroughs of these innovative resources designed to enhance your cybersecurity strategies without breaking the bank. Templates can be found here: https://www.cisotradecraft.com/freetemplates

What if the very thing weighing on you right now is the key to your next level of growth?Many of us carry more than we realize: unfinished goals, unmet expectations, family pressures, and the constant mental load of what still needs to be done.In this episode of Chain of Learning, I share a grounding teaching from a Zen priest in Japan after a Zazen guided meditation session that has deeply resonated with me—and with leaders on my Japan Leadership Experience:“Remove the muda to reveal the buddha.”In Japanese, muda means waste. And in Lean, muda refers to anything that doesn't add value.I've been reflecting on this phrase and its deeper meaning as I process my own life experiences, both personally and professionally.This Zen teaching invites us to look inward: to notice what weighs us down, reflect on what it's trying to teach us, and transform that weight into wisdom.As you move forward—whether at the end of a year or in the middle of a busy work period—this episode offers an invitation to slow down, study your experiences, and release what no longer serves you, so that you can lead your life and work with greater intention, clarity, and a continuous learning mindset.YOU'LL LEARN:What Daruma dolls reveal about resilience, focus, and habits rooted in practice, not perfectionWhat “Remove the muda to reveal the Buddha” means beyond lean – and how reflection helps turn inner weight into wisdomFour additional Zen teachings that apply to effective leadership, helping change leaders move beyond tools to presence, purpose, and a growth mindsetA simple reflection practice to reframe or release muda so it supports – not burdens – your growthThe distinction between goals and intentions, and why letting your being guide your doing leads to more meaningful progressIMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/62Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about my Japan Leadership Experience: KBJAnderson.com/japantrip Get a copy of “Learning to Lead Leading to Learn”: KBJAnderson.com/learning-to-lead Video clip of the daruma temple: Leadership Lessons from Japan's Daruma TempleTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:01:55 Daruma dolls and what they represent03:28 How Zazen meditation can bring you back to inner peace and inner being04:26 What it means to “Remove the muda to reveal the Buddha”06:43 The burden Isao Yoshino carried of what he considered was his big failure as a business leader and the shift in perspective to lift the burden, as highlighted in “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn”08:07 Four Zen teachings and how to apply them as a transformational change leader12:00 How the burning of daruma dolls each year show reflection in practice13:05 Your intentional practice to help you remove the muda13:36 3 examples of how to use this reflection process to adjust or release so to turn waste into wisdom13:49 Example 1: You've been stuck in constant doing14:16 Example 2: Your plans didn't unfold as expected15:07 Example 3: A relationship has shifted16:38 The distinction between goals vs intentions—being and doing17:31 How to “Remove the muda to reveal the buddha” to release the weight you carry and move forward

When lawyers tell me their practice is too unique for standardized processes, I hear the same concern echoed across every type of legal work. We believe our complexity makes us special, that our clients' needs are too varied to systematize. But in this episode, I'm joined by process expert Joe Bockerstette, who brings a perspective forged across manufacturing floors, angel investment firms, and county public defender offices that challenges this fundamental assumption. Through our conversation, you'll discover the universal fundamentals of how work gets done so you can create the clarity and consistency that transform how your team operates. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: agileattorney.com/bonus1 Take your law practice from overwhelmed to optimized with GreenLine LegalFollow along on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johnegrantFollow Joe on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joe-bockerstette-86875a17

Practice inefficiency doesn't just waste time - it impacts revenue, patient outcomes and staff productivity. In this week's episode, Jamie sits down with Jennie Vanderpool, Senior Manager for Process Improvement and Effectiveness at Midmark, for a conversation that connects Lean Six Sigma methodology with revenue boosting process improvement and practice design, showing how smarter workflows can reduce bottlenecks and save valuable time. Tune in for a preview of Jennie's session at the upcoming Multisite Mastery event in March and learn how process improvements build smarter systems that simply make sense.

Apply for my Japan Leadership Experience! The May 2026 cohort is officially SOLD OUT and I'm now accepting applications for the November 2026 cohort. Secure your spot now and take advantage of the early registration discount.Have you ever stepped outside your routine and suddenly seen your work—or yourself—with fresh clarity?Sometimes the most meaningful leadership breakthroughs happen when we pause and immerse ourselves in a space designed for reflection, curiosity, and connection.In this bonus episode—recorded live in Tokyo the morning after Cohort 8 of my Japan Leadership Experience wrapped up—I'm joined by Ikigai expert and past Chain of Learning guest Nick Kemp, who spent the week with my Japan program cohort in November 2025 as both a participant and speaker. Still energized from the experience, we sat down to capture our reflections while they were still vivid.You'll hear us revisit the moments that stood out, the leaders who inspired us, and the Japanese concepts that came alive throughout the week—ikigai, kaizen, ichigo ichie, omotenashi, sanpo yoshi, and more.This unscripted conversation offers a glimpse into what my Japan Leadership Experience is all about: a week of learning, community, and connection that helps global executives, lean practitioners, and change leaders discover the essence of respect for people—and “hold precious what it means to be human”—and how to create a culture of excellence.YOU'LL LEARN:How the Japan Leadership Experience creates an ibasho—a place where you feel you truly belong—and why this is foundational for leadershipHow Japanese companies view revitalization through kaizen as both a business strategy and a people-centered philosophyWhat the debate over whether it's “seven wastes vs. eight wastes” in lean and Toyota Production System reveals about how we teach, learn, and complicate continuous improvementWhy immersive learning matters—and how stepping away from your daily responsibilities helps you reconnect with purpose and see challenges through a new lensWhy long-term relationships and trust sit at the heart of meaningful learning and business success.If there's one thing to take away from this episode, it's this:Transformation happens when you step outside your routine and into intentional space for reflection, learning, and community.ABOUT MY GUEST:Nicholas Kemp, is the founder of Ikigai Tribe and is the author of IKIGAI-KAN: Feel a Life Worth Living and co-author with Professor Daiki Kato of Rolefulness:A Guide to Purposeful Living. IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/61 Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comConnect with Nick Kemp: linkedin.com/in/nicholas-kemp Follow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonCheck out Nick Kemp''s website: ikigaitribe.com Listen to Nick's Ikigai Tribe podcast: ikigaitribe.com/podcasts Download my free KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst Learn more about my Japan Leadership Experience: kbjanderson.com/japantrip TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:01:54 The story behind how Nick and Katie first met03:55 Katie and Nick's shared connection of living in Japan04:45 What Katie loves about her special relationships with Japanese business leaders06:23 What lead Katie to start the Japan Leadership Experience09:47 How living in Japan and developing relationships with Japanese businesses and Toyota leaders led to Katie to write the book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” and start the Japan Leadership Experience programs  Japan Leadership Experience11:33 The parallel process with writing the book and leading the first program12:34 The definition of “ibasho” and how the Japan Leadership Experience is about being in a place where you can feel like yourself15:03 How the word “revitalize” is used in Japan by leaders as the reason for kaizen15:41 Katie's favorite parts of leading her Japan Leadership Experience cohorts17:41 The planning behind the scenes to make the experience a success18:55 Katie's connection to her role in bringing people together for learning and connection21:08 Nick's biggest takeaway during the week in Japan on the Japan Leadership Experience23:56 How different cultures have a different sense of urgency and the difference between Japanese culture and Western culture in relationship to kaizen activities25:25 Starting the day with a morning meeting, “chorei” connected to greater purpose and feeling inspired to do more26:37 The key to being more roleful and the book “Rolefulness”28:47 What “sanpo-yoshi” means – goodness in three ways – operating in  three- way goodness for customer, company, and community 31:27 The importance of sustainability in Japanese culture32:31 Clarity on the debate of seven waste or eight waste in lean from a Toyota leader34:44 The essence of being over doing36:01 An example of omotenashi in Japanese culture37:43 Nick's experience in taking time away to be go to Japan39:42 The importance of putting aside your everyday role and experience a different way of leading44:09 The transformation when you step outside routines and into intentional space for reflection and connection44:53 Questions to reflect on as you listen to this episode Apply for my next cohort of the Japan Leadership Experience! May 2026 is SOLD OUT - Now Accepting Applications for November 2026 and offering an early registration discount.

Enter for your chance to a win a copy of "Faceplant: FREE Yourself from Failure's Funk" - http://ChainOfLearning.com/60We all know that moment where something falls apart.A project slips. A conversation goes sideways. The promotion doesn't happen.We call it “failure,” but it's often not the mistake itself that stops us.It's the fear, the funk, and the uncertainty that follow. And those emotions can hold us back far more than the faceplant ever did.In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Melisa Buie and Keeley Hurley—seasoned leaders in engineering, quality, and continuous improvement and the co-authors of Faceplant: FREE Yourself from Failure's Funk.Together, we explore what really happens beneath the surface when we stumble—and what it takes to get back up with clarity, confidence, and intention. Just like Daruma dolls represent the Japanese proverb “Fall down seven times, get up eight,” always righting themselves when knocked over, our path to success comes from acknowledging the stumbles, setbacks, and faceplants that are inherent along the way. What matters is that we don't get stuck—we get up and learn our way forward.YOU'LL LEARN:What's at risk when leaders fear failure, and how organizations unintentionally teach people to avoid mistakesThe FREE model (Focus, Reflect, Explore, Engage) as a practical way to get back up, learn forward, and regain clarity after a setbackEmotional hijacks to watch for—including the four instinctive patterns in the Conspirator Matrix: machine, magician, statue, and satelliteWhy embracing a growth mindset frees you to experiment, learn, and release perfection when things don't go as plannedContinuous improvement practices like reflection (post-mortems) and anticipation (pre-mortems) that strengthen learning before and after challenges occurIf a setback has ever left you uncertain about your next step in building a people-centered culture, this conversation offers a compassionate, practical path to learn your way forward when you fall down.ABOUT MY GUESTS:Dr. Melisa Buie is a laser physicist–turned–problem solver with a PhD in Nuclear Engineering/Plasma Physics and decades of leadership in manufacturing at Coherent, Lam Research, Applied Materials, and Advanced Energy. She's published 40+ papers, holds 6 patents, and is a Six Sigma Black Belt. Melisa is the co-author of Faceplant: FREE Yourself from Failure's Funk, where she turns hard-won lessons into practical wisdom for navigating setbacks.Keeley Hurley is a continuous improvement leader with 20+ years in engineering, manufacturing, and quality, and a Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence. Known for her humility and humor, she brings real-world experience from the many “faceplants” that shaped her problem-solving approach. She is the co-author of Faceplant: FREE Yourself from Failure's Funk, blending lessons from her own missteps into tools for resilience and growth.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/60 Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comConnect with Melisa Buie: linkedin.com/in/melisabuieConnect with Keeley Hurley: linkedin.com/in/keeleyhurleyFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonCheck out Melissa and Keeley's book, Faceplant: FREE Yourself from Failure's FunkTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:01:46 What inspired the book, “Faceplant”02:56 The emotion behind failure that keeps us stuck05:53 Getting over the hump of the funk knowing others experience failure07:03 The meaning of the equation, anxiety = care x uncertainty where our anxiety is amplified08:25 Why the care factor amplifies when when others are involved10:01 The pre-mortem exercise to reduce anxiety by anticipating what could go wrong12:01 How faceplanting is similar to daruma dolls in getting up after we fall12:44  The aspects of the FREE model in freeing yourself from failure14:25 Breaking down the acronym FREE: Focus, Reflect, Explore, Engage17:01 The meaning of the Japanese word, hansei, that means deep self-reflection in improving how we react17:53 The four quadrant system and determining which quadrant triggers our fight or flight response20:25 How the four quadrants were determined 21:51 An example of how fear held Keeley back in an emotional hijack in the laser industry22:47 Melisa's personal experience in having a fixed mindset when faced with failure23:56 How Melisa moved from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset and taking chances26:13 Ways to approach failure in an organizational level28:40 Importance of clarifying expectations instead of adding pressure on ourselves30:02 The meaning behind the phrase, “By learning the wrong lesson, you can get stuck with a Life Sentence” 31:24 The both/and thinking that both Melisa and Keeley had to face in embracing failure36:55 How to apply the concept of hansei in reflecting on a current change initiative and how to learn from failure39:06 Two ways to reflect on this episode to get past face plants and building small intentional steps to build a learning culture Gift "Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn" to your team - http://LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comEnter for your chance to a win a copy of "Faceplant: FREE Yourself from Failure's Funk" - http://ChainOfLearning.com/60

AI is everywhere. And its use and capabilities are accelerating every day. But is AI actually helping us get better at getting better? Or is it just amplifying the friction, bottlenecks, and complexity that already exists in our workflows and processes?In this episode, Nathen Harvey, leader of the DORA Research team at Google, explores how AI is reshaping not just how we work, but how we can use it to elevate human work, collaborate as teams, and reach better outcomes.Drawing on new findings from the DORA 2025 report on AI-assisted software development, we dig into what truly drives high performance – regardless of your industry or work –  and how AI can either accelerate learning or amplify bottlenecks.If you lead or work on any kind of team you'll discover how to use AI thoughtfully, so it supports learning and strengthens the people-centered learning culture you're trying to build.YOU'LL LEARN:How AI accelerates learning—or intensifies friction—based on how teams use itWhy AI magnifies what already exists, and why stronger human learning habits matter more than stronger toolsThe seven DORA team archetypes—and how to quickly spot strengths, gaps, and next steps for more effective collaborationHow to use team characteristics to target where AI (or any tech) will truly move the needle and support continuous improvementHow the Toyota Production System / lean principle of jidoka—automation with a human touch—guides us to use AI to elevate human capability, not replace itABOUT MY GUEST:Nathen Harvey, Developer Relations Engineer, leads the DORA team at Google Cloud. DORA enables teams and organizations to thrive by making industry-shaping research accessible and actionable. Nathen has learned and shared lessons from some incredible organizations, teams, and open source communities. He is a co-author of multiple DORA reports on software delivery performance and is a sought after speaker in DevOps and software development. IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/59 Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comConnect with Nathan Harvey: linkedin.com/in/nathen Follow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about DORA: dora.dev/publications Join the DORA community: dora.community Download my free KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst Learn more about my coaching, trusted advisor partnerships, and leadership learning experiences: KBJAnderson.com TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:03:04 What DORA is and how it's used as a research program for continuous improvement04:31 AI's primary role in software development as an amplifier where organizations are functioning well and where there's friction05:53 Using AI to generate more code in software engineering07:03 Danger of creating more bottlenecks when you try to speed up processes07:44 Importance of a value stream to understand the customer journey10:41 How value mapping creates visibility across silos so others see different parts of the whole process10:55 The process of gathering information for the State of AI Assisted Software Development report12:20 Finding seven team characteristics based on a survey of 5,000 respondents and learning how to leverage the results to improve performance14:18 Examples of several team characteristics and how it applies over various industries16:33 The negative impact of focusing on the wrong process that impacts the throughput17:00 Focusing at different types of waste to prevent undue pressure on people17:51 What DORA has found in having a tradeoff in having fast and stable production pushes vs. working slow and rolling back changes18:50 Three big things you need to improve throughput and quality19:44 Why the legacy bottleneck team archetype is unstable with elevated levels of friction21:22 Why harmonious high achievers deliver sustainable high quality work without the burnout22:37 How the report findings are being used to help improve organizations23:42 Seven capabilities of the DORA AI Capabilities Model in amplifying the impact of AI adoption to improve team and product performance26:27 The capability of executing in small batches to see the process through to fruition28:52 How to leverage AI to elevate human work vs machine work30:58 The benefits of AI in making new skills accessible, but does not make anyone experts in a specific skill31:44 Leveraging AI to help you complete tasks that would've taken longer32:43 Using AI to elevate creative thinking, but doesn't replace your thoughts33:56 Ability to ask AI “dumb” questions to improve collaboration across teams34:49 Creating an experiential learning experience where there's not a step-by-step path on how to reach outcomes37:08 Importance of collaboration when moving from point A to point B37:35 The difference between trainers and facilitators39:03 Using the DORA report to form a hypothesis for your next experiment in whether a process is working39:55 Two ways to start leveraging AI to accelerate learning40:23 Importance of using AI and learning through use40:58 Benefits of having a conversation with someone who introduces friction to your work44:21 The concept of jidoka in designing systems that empower humans to do their best thinking and work45:22 Questions to ask yourself as your reflect on the role of AI in your organization

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, host KJ interviews Matt Seefeld, CEO at MedEvolve, about the chaos and inefficiencies in the US healthcare revenue cycle. Matt shares how generative AI and a focus on human accountability can help providers achieve "zero touch" claims, reduce waste, and improve access to care, especially for small and rural hospitals. Four Key Takeaways: The Real Cost of Healthcare is Obscured (3:00)The US healthcare system lacks alignment between consumers, providers, and payers, making it nearly impossible to know the true cost of care. Administrative Waste is a Billion-Dollar Problem (04:01)Most providers touch claims multiple times, with 63% of those touches being wasted effort due to system inefficiencies and payer games. AI is a Tool, Not a Cure-All (31:50)While AI can automate and improve processes, more than half of claim errors still require human intervention, and technology alone won't solve systemic issues. Access to Care is Shrinking for Many Americans (24:00, 27:00)As costs rise and reimbursements fall, small and rural hospitals are closing, and more Americans are forced to seek care through emergency services or go without. Quote of the Show (31:50):"More than half—53%—of the errors that we see that humans have to get involved with come from AI solutions, so they're not smart enough yet." - Matt Seefeld Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome. Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval Ways to connect with Matt Seefeld: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-seefeld-521319/ Company Website: https://medevolve.com How to get more Disruption/Interruption: Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thibodaux Regional Health System, a Louisiana health system with both a hospital and clinics, has focused on process improvement to pursue what they call “patient-centered excellence.” In this video, CEO Greg Stock and CIO Bryan Samaha talk about their use of the MEDITECH EHR and how they are reducing errors and improving clinical quality.Advantages they cite for MEDITECH include the balance between a relatively low operating cost and proven results, as well as the ability to maintain their own autonomy over their EHR without being at the mercy of another health system. The latter advantage allows them to maintain control over downtime, updates, the flexibility of the EHR, and other operations. Stock refers to the partnership as a “marriage between a hospital and an IT system,” which now spans 24 years.Learn more about Thibodaux Regional Health System: https://www.thibodaux.com/Learn more about MEDITECH: https://ehr.meditech.com/

In the latest episode of "A Job Done Well," James Lawther and Jimmy Barber confront a polarising topic: Process Improvement. They tackle the central debate—is it essential for organisational health, or simply bureaucratic overhead?1.  The Core Conflict: Necessity vs. BureaucracyJimmy admits to a strong aversion to "process," associating it with endless documentation. James argues the opposite: that effective processes are the indispensable structures supporting successful businesses. The hosts explore the common resistance to process and why, despite its reputation, it remains fundamental to achieving results.2.  Actions for Better ProcessesThe episode provides eight practical rules for teams aiming to improve how they work, focusing on impact, observation, and customer value. Key points include:Design with Purpose: Define what the customer wants before designing the process.Observe Reality: Go beyond documentation; understand what is really happening.Focus on Impact: Use data to prioritise the problems that matter most.Limit Mapping: Map only for understanding and improvement, you don't have to document everything.Cross-Silo View: Recognise that processes interact across the organisation.Make it Easy: Design processes to make the desired action easy to perform.Prioritise Value: Focus on speed and quality first; cost savings will follow.Remember the People: Processes must serve the people who execute them, not the other way around.3.  Why Listen?Whether you are sceptical or a proponent, this episode offers a clear perspective on transforming performance. Listen to challenge your assumptions and get actionable strategies for creating better workflows for your team and customers.Tune in to the full episode now. For further discussion, reach out to the hosts at Jimmy@jobdonewell.com or James@jobdonewell.com.Got a question - get in touch. Click here.

Apply for the May 2026 Japan Leadership Experience—https://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/Where is your primary focus as a leader, change practitioner, or organization? Getting business results? Improving processes? Or developing people? What if the real key to lasting business success isn't found in metrics or milestones—but in how you create a culture that nurtures people and their problem-solving capabilities? In this episode I explore what it really takes to deliver sustainable organizational success, and why building a people-centered learning culture—one where developing others isn't an afterthought, but the foundation that enables operational excellence and, ultimately, better business outcomes.Effective leadership begins when you shift from managing results to developing people—creating the conditions for continuous improvement, engagement, and growth.When you put people first, results follow.Whether you are a senior executive, lean practitioner, or team leader, that's how you build organizations that learn, adapt, and thrive—today and for generations to come.YOU'LL LEARN:How Toyota's philosophy of Monozukuri wa hitozukuri (“We make people so we can make things”) shapes a people-first culture of learning and improvementWhy focusing on people → process → results (not the reverse) drives lasting impact across teams and organizationsThe interdependence of three qualities that support business success  —quality of people development, quality of work, and quality of results – to create sustainable impact Insights from real leaders about how shifting from results-focused to people-focused leadership led to  significant measurable improvement in business outcomesHow to model intentional leadership practices to develop people, foster engagement, and sustain a culture of continuous learning and improvementIMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/58 Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about my Japan Leadership Experience: kbjanderson.com/japantripTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:01:51 What leadership with purpose truly means02:06 Why Toyota's motto, “ The only secret to Toyota is its attitude towards learning,” is its secret to success03:18 Three interrelated qualities that determine lasting business success represented by a pyramid03:45 [Third level] Results - The outcomes customers see04:12 [Second level] Process - The technical and operational systems that make the work flow better04:37 [First level] People - The foundation that nurtures people, problem-solving, and learning05:28 Why the Western approach is backwards when it comes to people, processes, and results06:50 The meaning of the quote, “profit is excrement,” that captures the backwardness of the usual business approach to success07:39 The difference between lean as a transactional toolkit versus a way of nurturing people and problem solving at all levels07:53 Why putting people first is not just in Japan or for Toyota leaders08:41 Leaders who put people first as the foundation for success10:12 The challenge in putting people first10:38 An example from Gustavo of why our intentions and our actions are aligned12:29 Gustavo's realization that he had a people engagement problem13:20 The positive results in engagement when he focused on people first14:08 What leadership in action looks like14:35 What it really means to create a chain of learning across your organization15:00 The two pillars of the Toyota Way15:43 Three questions to ask yourself as you reflect on this episode16:26 Questions to ask your people to create a cycle of reflection and continuous improvement17:13 How to build organizations and leaders that last Apply for the May 2026 Japan Leadership Experiencehttps://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/

Join members of the Future of People at Work community for a dynamic panel discussion exploring how diverse improvement philosophies can come together to create stronger, more resilient organizations. Drawing on insights from thought leaders such as Shigeo Shingo, Eli Goldratt, and Ryuji Fukuda, the panel will discuss how integrating methods like design for manufacture, total productive maintenance, and design of experiments can drive innovation and shape the future of improvement, technology, and the way we work.To learn more about the Shingo Model, please visit https://shingo.org

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERERegister for Tektonic HERE!In this episode, Jeff Compton welcomes Chuck Mitchell, this year's APPEX Giveaway Winner from the Changing the Industry Podcast with Lucas Underwood and David Roman. Chuck shares his story of how he got into the industry from fleet management and parts retail to shop ownership. He's passionate about the current technician shortage and helping younger generations. He and Jeff talk about the importance of cross-industry collaboration among local shops, the need for better training and information access, and the value of mentoring new technicians to create a more sustainable future for the automotive industry.Timestamps: 00:00 Meet Chuck Mitchell06:39 "Friend's Growth in Dealerships"15:05 Balancing Business and Compassion17:06 Shop Ownership Challenges22:58 "Building Confidence Through Understanding"30:19 Improving Industry and Supporting Workers34:07 Tech Career Paths in Shops36:44 "EV Direction and Innovation"43:25 "Reviving Craftsmanship in Auto Industry"48:24 "Vehicle Repair Challenges Persist"52:18 Customer Service and Accountability01:00:09 "AI, VR, and Cost Challenges"01:03:39 "Nurturing Young Techs"01:11:31 "Industry Growth Through Connection" Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Here's the problem — running a restaurant that serves thousands with consistency and care isn't easy. At Chick-fil-A, every second counts, and every process is engineered for excellence.In this Problem Solved trailer, Chick-fil-A owner Sam Hartman and Matt Riley, VP of Enterprise Solutions, share how they build systems that balance speed, quality, and human connection.

What does it really take to become lean—not just do lean?This is the secret to transformational lean leadership that Larry Culp, CEO of GE and GE Aerospace shared with me on stage three years ago. In this special bonus episode, I want to share his insights and wisdom about leadership and lean culture with you.This bonus episode marks two milestones in my own Chain of Learning® journey: 

Recurring problems demand a shift in focus. In this final rapid-fire episode, Dr. Janet Pilcher shares three essential steps to move away from blame and toward process improvement. Learn what it takes to reframe discussions, conduct a system audit, and hardwire new, standardized processes for better performance and desired outcomes.Recommended Resources:  Empower Your Team by Embracing Accountability, Achieve Operational Efficiency with Process Improvement, Process Improvement Tool: Stoplight ReportFollow Host Dr. Janet Pilcher on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janetpilcher/

How often do you find yourself racing from meeting to meeting, rushing through tasks, or filling every silence with your own voice? In our doing-oriented culture, pausing feels uncomfortable—even counterproductive. Yet left unchecked, our instinct for action and answers can limit learning, development, and innovation.In this episode, I explore the power of the pause and why mastering it may be one of the most transformative leadership habits you can develop. Pausing with purpose—slowing down to create space for silence, reflection, and intentional action—actually accelerates your impact. It's in the pause—the space between our “doing”—that learning deepens, decisions improve, and people grow. Whether you're leading a team, coaching others, or developing your own learning mindset, this episode will help you discover the power of the pause to drive performance, engagement, and lasting change.YOU'LL LEARN:Why silence feels uncomfortable—and how our instinct to fill the space with our thinking limits growth, reflection, and learningHow embracing ma (間), the Japanese concept of “ meaningful space between”, creates the conditions for learning, understanding, and transformation The importance of intentional reflection (hansei) to cultivate a  learning culture rooted in continuous improvementWhy mastering the pause creates ripple effects across your team, transforms your leadership, and leads to better resultsThree ways to develop the power of the pause as a transformational leadership habit to create clarity, ownership, and insightIMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/56 Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:01:50 The benefits of mastering the pause 02:12 Why silence is uncomfortable making us want to keep things moving05:05 Katie's aha moment of the telling habit08:58 How to pause to create space for others to think10:16 How the pause is used in Japanese culture13:18 The meaning of ma (間) and how to apply this concept15:41 How reflection (hansei) is deeply rooted in Toyota's culture16:17 An example of how Agustín created pauses in the busyness of the usual work routines to give space for conversations17:47 Why the power of the pause is three-fold17:51 [ONE] Restore the PDSA (Plan-Do-Study-Adjust) cycle18:20 [TWO] Pausing gives others space to think18:46 [THREE] The pause shifts you from being reactive to proactive19:40 Three ways to practice the power of the pause19:44 [FIRST] Count silently to 10 after you ask an open question20:01 [SECOND] Schedule reflection and thinking time for yourself and for your team20:22 [THIRD] Practice the Intention Pause21:32 The benefits of holding back before sharing your idea

This episode features Mike Sarasti, former Chief Innovation Officer and Director of Innovation and Technology in Miami and a leading advocate for government transformation, in conversation with host Stephen Goldsmith. They unpack how GenAI and rapid process mapping are revolutionizing public sector efficiency, not by shaving seconds off legacy workflows, but by making space for human creativity and curiosity. Mike shares real-world examples and explains how city leaders can democratize AI tools and clear bureaucratic tedium while guarding against hype and automation overreach.Music credit: Summer-Man by KetsaAbout Data-Smart City SolutionsData-Smart City Solutions, housed at the Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University, is working to catalyze the adoption of data projects on the local government level by serving as a central resource for cities interested in this emerging field. We highlight best practices, top innovators, and promising case studies while also connecting leading industry, academic, and government officials. Our research focus is the intersection of government and data, ranging from open data and predictive analytics to civic engagement technology. We seek to promote the combination of integrated, cross-agency data with community data to better discover and preemptively address civic problems. To learn more visit us online and follow us on Twitter. 

What You'll Learn:In this episode, host Patrick Adams and guest Craig Tedrow discuss the importance of long-term sustainment in organizational processes. Craig shares his journey from resisting Lean practices to embracing them, emphasizing the need for leaders to involve employees and revisit improvements regularly. They highlight the significance of clear expectations, enabling action, and sustaining improvements. About the Guest:Craig Tedrow is an experienced Continuous Improvement professional with a strong background in the automotive, aerospace, and defense industries. Known for his ability to bridge the gap between frontline workers and organizational goals, he brings expertise in training coordination, process improvement, and team development. With an Associate's degree in Computer and Information Sciences from Grand Rapids Community College, Craig combines technical understanding with a people-centered approach to leadership.Links:Click Here For Craig Tedrow's LinkedIn

Not sure what your numbers are telling you? Get a free review: coltivar.com/financial-review Most companies want to grow, but few are actually ready to scale. In this episode, Steve shares three things every business needs to do before turning on the growth engine. You'll learn why documenting your processes can 10x your company's value, how defining success in every role prevents chaos, and what a real sales and marketing system looks like. Steve also breaks down a real story of a business that grew too fast and nearly went bankrupt, revealing what to avoid if you want growth that lasts. _______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Enter to Win a Copy of David Yeager's book "10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People" - Register to win before October 24th at 11:45pm Pacific: http://chainoflearning.com/55How do you motivate, coach, or lead someone younger—without sounding critical, nagging, or controlling?We've all heard the stereotypes:“Young people don't care.”“They're entitled.”“They can't take feedback.”But what if those assumptions are what's really getting in the way of growth, engagement, and connection?In this episode, I talk with Dr. David Yeager, professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and author of the bestselling book, 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People.David's groundbreaking research—conducted with Carol Dweck, Angela Duckworth, and others—reveals how the right balance of high challenge and high support can unlock potential in the next generation and foster a learning culture where people feel valued, respected, and inspired to grow.Together, we explore the “mentor mindset”—a practical approach to coaching and intentional leadership to help young people move from compliance to engagement and step into their full potential — and how you can provide feedback that creates connection and motivation, not conflict.Whether you're a parent, coach, teacher, or organizational leader, you'll walk away with actionable insights to cultivate a continuous learning mindset and inspire empowered growth. YOU'LL LEARN:How to lead with the mentor mindset to create a “learning zone” that combines high expectations with high support, empathy, respect and belief in people's capability ​​What the “mentor's dilemma” is—and why both the enforcer mindset (high challenge, low support) and the protector mindset (high support, low challenge) fall shortHow great mentors balance rigor and flexibility that encourage people to produce high-quality work without enforcing rigid rulesThe power of transparency and labeling your intent when giving feedback to build trust and clarityThe link between McGregor's Theory X and Theory Y management mindsets and the mentor's dilemma, and how these leadership mindsets show up in organizations such as Microsoft, GE, McDonald's, and WalmartABOUT MY GUEST:David Yeager, PhD, is a professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and the cofounder of the Texas Behavioral Science and Policy Institute. He is the author of, 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People, and best known for his research conducted with Carol Dweck, Angela Duckworth, and Greg Walton on short but powerful interventions that influence adolescent behaviors such as motivation, engagement, healthy eating, bullying, stress, mental health, and more. IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/54 Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comConnect with David Yeager: linkedin.com/in/david-yeager Follow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonCheck out David Yeager's book 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People: A Groundbreaking Approach to Leading the Next Generation—And Making Your Own Life Easier: amazon.com/10-25-Motivating-Groundbreaking-Generation Reach out to learn more about the Athena App: https://txbspi.prc.utexas.edu/Join The Power of the Mindset Masterclass: https://www.masterclass.com/classes/power-of-mindsetSubscribe to my newsletter: kbjanderson.com/newsletter TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:02:23 The misconceptions about young one that led to David's research04:23 What the mentor's dilemma is and how to overcome it05:53 The disconnect with giving and receiving feedback 07:43 Other alternatives to what mentorship can really be for young ones09:06 The predicament young ones are in between wanting respect, but not having the rights of adulthood10:50 The difference between the enforcer and protector mindset11:32 The mentor's dilemma in withholding feedback or being too supportive12:58 Characteristics of the enforcer mindset in the blame and shame approach and the problems it causes14:02 Characteristics of the protector mindset includes low standards, but high support16:37 Different types of leadership styles and why they can be referred to as “mindsets” instead 19:16 The conflicts between protector and enforcer mindsets21:56 How to have a mentor mindset in dealing with challenges in the workplace or at home22:26 Example of a mentor mindset in dealing with students in holding a high standard, while also providing support28:44 Difference between intellectual rigor and logistical rigor30:92 Benefit of holding a rigorous standard while also providing support in helping others meet their goals32:51 Example of Stef Okamoto in transforming her old enforcer culture to embracing a mentor mindset focused on honesty and collaboration37:14 Example of how to use the mentor mindset in correcting behavior in the workplace without being offensive43:47 The Athena App created with Carol Dweck to help managers deal with conflict45:41 The misalignment between the real experience in working in serving customers and what managers really need46:34 Top tip for managers to show up with the mentor mindset in addition to asking questions47:55 The importance of transparency in leadership to collaboratively troubleshoot issues49:30 Why leading and mentoring young people isn't about lowering the bar or enforcing compliance, but holding high standards with support50:41 Asking questions and providing encouragement to be a better leader51:28 The power of labeling and making your intentions clear when giving feedback52:37 Question to reflect on to shift into a mindset mentor Enter to Win a Copy of David Yeager's book "10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People" - Register to win before October 24th at 11:45pm Pacific: http://chainoflearning.com/55

***A little bit of technical difficulties couldn't stop us from a great conversation and tons of laughs. Make sure you stick around for the bloopers!***We're kicking off Season 6 with an inspiring, laugh-filled, and eye-opening conversation recorded live in Washington, D.C.! Host Marlon joins Bettina Applewhite, Nichole Taylor, and Stacey Williamson — three powerhouse women whose careers span satellites, school kitchens, and national nutrition leadership.In this episode, we explore everything from:How Stacey went from working on NASA weather satellites to food systems research at Johns HopkinsNicole's journey from chef to school nutrition director and how she's using real student voices to drive school food innovationBettina's mission to blend culture and nutrition in schools (and her stint on Top Chef Amateurs!)We also dive into the power of food photography, community over competition, and why telling your story — especially in school nutrition — is the game-changer.This is a fun, fast-paced conversation about purpose, pivoting, and the intersection of technology, culture, and healthy food. Whether you're in school nutrition, a dietitian, or just love a good reinvention story, this one's for you.===========================Connect with our Guests! ===========================Bettina Applewhite, MS, RDN, LDN, SNS- https://www.biteswithapplewhite.com/- https://www.linkedin.com/in/bettina-applewhite/- https://www.facebook.com/BitesWithApplewhite- https://www.instagram.com/biteswithapplewhite/E. Nichole Taylor- https://www.linkedin.com/in/e-nichole-taylor-3a08a9114/Stacey Williamson- https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceykwilliamson1/===========================Connect with us! ===========================https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlon-gordon/IG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlonIG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/https://www.instagram.com/nextup_production/===========================Chapters===========================00:00 Building Community in Nutrition02:42 From Space to Nutrition: A Unique Journey05:53 Culinary Backgrounds and School Nutrition08:42 Cultural Foods and Healthy Lifestyles11:18 The Transition from Tech to Nutrition14:05 Process Improvement in Dietetics17:07 Food Photography and Storytelling20:00 Creating Impactful School Meals23:00 Engaging Students in School Nutrition26:06 The Importance of Authenticity in Food28:55 Personal Growth and Goal Setting31:40 The Power of Collaboration in Nutrition34:30 Future of School Nutrition and Culinary Arts

What happens when an athlete applies industrial and systems engineering principles to her training?In this inspiring bonus episode of Problem Solved: The IISE Podcast, Anwaar Zyoud shares how she earned her black belt in just one month, rose to the national team of Jordan, and competed on international stages all while discovering the power of ISE.By recording, analyzing, and optimizing her performance just like an engineer would, Anwaar transformed challenges into victories and carried that mindset into her professional career. Today, she serves in the office of His Majesty King Abdullah II.Her story is proof that ISE can open doors everywhere from the arena to the workplace.Anwaar Zyoud's video, How ISE Wins FightsHannah Brook's video, Food Security and Technology: A Moving PictureAll top entries: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLizt3nogHG51F-UxJ1UtMzO6thJ69CUmBISE Impact - Short Video Contest DetailsLearn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTokProblem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth GrimesInterested in contributing to the podcast? Email egrimes@iise.org

Enter to win a pair of Nicolas Kemp's books: "IKIGAI-KAN: Feel a Life Worth Living" and "Rolefulness: A Guide to Purposeful Living" - Register by October 10th at 11:45pm Pacific and be sure to share your lucky URL to increase your chances of winning: http://chainoflearning.com/53Ikigai is one of the hottest buzzwords in leadership and personal development. But what does ikigai really mean?When you think of ikigai, what do you envision? Is it the popular Venn diagram that claims to help you find your purpose by identifying “the sweet spot” where what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for overlap? The problem? That's not ikigai at all. And in fact, the very process of putting ikigai into a framework contradicts the authentic meaning of the word.To dispel what he calls the “ikigai hoax” and uncover its deeper meaning I'm joined by Nicholas Kemp—Japanologist, researcher and author of IKIGAI-KAN: Feel a Life Worth Living and the new book Rolefulness, co-authored with Professor Daiki Kato. We explore how ikigai is fundamentally about creating meaning, connection, and a life —and workplace—where people feel life is worth livingIt's about being before doing and cultivating simple joys, authentic relationships, and spaces where people feel safe, valued, and inspired, whatever roles you are playing in your life or at work.Let's rediscover ikigai—not as a trendy framework, but as a powerful principle to understanding personal purpose, leadership development, and how to cultivate organizations where every individual can thrive. YOU'LL LEARN:Why the popular Venn diagram version of ikigai is a myth—and what authentic ikigai really means in JapanWhy ikigai is an essential concept for leaders who want to create people-centered workplacesThe deeper meaning of kokorozashi and its connection to purpose, intention, and leadership impactWhat “rolefulness” means and why understanding your roles in life can bring meaning into your relationships and workplacePractical ways to apply ikigai in leadership and daily life to inspire individuals and build thriving teamsABOUT MY GUEST:Nicholas Kemp, known as The Ikigai Coach, is a coach trainer, public speaker, consultant, and author of IKIGAI-KAN: Feel a Life Worth Living and Rolefulness. He is the founder and head coach of Ikigai Tribe, a community of educators, psychologists, coaches, and trainers dedicated to serving their communities through the authentic practice of Ikigai. With decades of experience living in Japan and training leaders worldwide, Nick is the trusted voice on how Ikigai can be embodied—not just studied.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/53 Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comConnect with Nick Kemp: linkedin.com/in/nicholas-kemp Follow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonCheck out Nick Kemp's Ikigai Tribe website and get his books: https://ikigaitribe.com/Download my free KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst Learn more about my Japan Leadership Experience: kbjanderson.com/japantrip TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:02:20 What ikigai really means03:11 The misconception people think ikigai is04:10 The ikigai hoax of the popular viral Venn diagram07:04 Why Nick calls himself a Japanologist and his deep understanding of Japanese principles10:57 The different structures of ikigai to identify relationships, people roles, and hobbies11:19 What “Kan” means in Ikigai-Kan that makes you feel that life is worth living13:27 The concept of slowing down into “be” not just “do”14:35 How to get back to the ikigai essence of life and work15:00 The meaning of ibasho and that is built on three ideas that make you feel comfortable and have a sense of purpose17:34 The importance of having a psychologically safe environment where continuous improvement thrives19:54 What kokorozashi means to align our behaviors with intention21:20 How Japan uses kokorozashi in their biggest business school24:01 Breaking down the concept of kokorozashi to put ideas into action25:38 What inspired Rolefullness to make it an extension of ikigai29:03 Tips on how to understand your role in your own life whether at work or home23:23 Three ways to enrich your life 30:22 The importance of meaningful conversations and expressing gratitude32:26 How to be more roleful to make a change in your business and relationships and fulfill a specific role36:07 The concept of authenticity to show up as you are with maximum impact36:58 How to get started in getting more intentional in being your authentic self38:12 The greatest gift of ikigai and allowing a person to pursue their work role42:12 Cultivating ikigai, kokorozashi, and shiko to create space where people feel safe, valued, and inspired43:24 Three simple ways to create ibasho to build a welcome place where people thrive  Register to win a pair of Nick Kemp's books: "Ikigai-Kan" and "Rolefullness" - enter to win by October 10th: http://chainoflearning.com/53

What do people in other functions at your organization think lean is all about?For many—in HR, OD, Finance, or operations—the answer is simple: process improvement, efficiency, waste elimination. And while those are pieces of the puzzle, they miss the bigger picture.Too often, continuous improvement and operational excellence teams get pigeonholed as “process people,” making it hard to gain traction or build the partnerships needed for real transformation.But lean isn't just about processes—it's about people. It's a strategy for developing leaders, engaging employees, and creating lasting change.If you're struggling to get leadership buy-in for lean or continuous improvement, the problem likely isn't the results you deliver. It's how you're positioning the value of lean and your role as a change leader.That's why I teamed up with my friend and business positioning and branding expert Betsy Jordyn for a special bonus episode.Together, we explore one of the biggest challenges you face as a lean and CI professional: how to position and frame your work so others see its true impact.YOU'LL LEARN:Why lean consultants – both internal and external – struggle with positioningHow to talk about what you do in language executives care aboutWhy people and learning matter more than toolsHow to connect leadership behaviors to measurable business resultsAnd why influence skills are just as important as technical expertiseWhether you're an internal or external consultant, this conversation will help you reframe your work in ways that create greater traction and impact.ABOUT MY GUEST:Betsy Jordyn is a Brand Positioning Strategist that helps consulting and coaching business owners clarify their brand positioning and messaging, create a website presence that positions them as sought-after experts, land clients with ease and integrity, and take their place as thought leaders and influencers in their niche. Her mission is to help consultants and coaches monetize their best-at strengths and authentic passions to make a bigger difference in the world.IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: https://kbjanderson.com/roi-strategic-positioning-lean-consultants/ Watch this bonus episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kgCbr2Os3nA Connect with Betsy Jordyn: linkedin.com/in/betsy-jordynListen to my conversation with Betsy Jordyn on Consulting Matters podcast: The ROI of Elevating Your Strategic Positioning & MessagingCheck out my website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson Learn about my Japan Leadership Experience program: kbjanderson.com/JapanTrip Download my KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst TIMESTAMPS:01:00 – The challenge: how lean is misunderstood as process improvement04:00 – Why “lean” became associated with tools in the West07:30 – The “paint story”: respect for people in action at Toyota10:00 – Demystifying jargon like gemba and focusing on “going to see”12:00 – Creating conditions for frontline problem-solving15:00 – Respect for people = holding precious what it means to be human19:00 – Don't lead with methodology: framing problems leaders care about22:00 – From tools to transformation: shaping client expectations24:00 – Linking behavior change to ROI and business results25:00 – The Katalyst™ model: building influence and communication skills27:00 – Why executives aren't always on board—and how to change that33:00 – Silos among OD, HR, L&D, and lean consultants36:00 – Building cross-disciplinary partnerships for culture change41:00 – Positioning tips: language, boundaries, and when to reveal methods42:00 – Pairing technical expertise with influence for greater impact46:00 – Trojan-horsing people-centered leadership through process work48:00 – Quantifying value: behaviors, KPIs, and ROI54:00 – Wrap-up: The path forward for lean consultants

Send Katie a Text Message!! In this week's episode, to wrap up our Project to Profit Series, I'm getting real about the one step most designers skip that could save you hours, protect your margins, and stop you from repeating the same costly mistakes project after project.Here's the kicker: research shows that teams who actually take this step improve performance by 20–25% on their very next project. Yep, it's that powerful.And don't think this is just for big firms — if you're a team of one, this step may be even more critical to stop repeating mistakes and create the systems that future-proof your business.Check out the show notes and other resources at https://successbydesign.coach/podcast/b/interior-design-debriefsThis podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co.Connect with Katie LinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

What You'll Learn:In this episode, host Catherine McDonald and guest Evan Powell discuss the critical importance of inventory management in businesses. They emphasize that inventory management is not a one-size-fits-all approach and requires dynamic, cross-functional collaboration. Evan highlights common misconceptions, such as viewing inventory as a set-and-forget system and relying solely on software or AI.About the Guest:Evan Powell is an operations and supply chain professional dedicated to optimizing processes, reducing waste, and improving performance. With a proven track record of delivering measurable cost savings, increased productivity, and enhanced customer satisfaction, he brings a practical, cross-functional problem-solving approach. Evan's expertise spans end-to-end supply chain management, including process optimization, lean manufacturing, inventory management, demand planning, logistics, vendor management, and continuous improvement. All with a focus on achieving real-world impact.Links:Click Here For Evan Powell's LinkedInEvan Powell's Website

Do you feel like your team is constantly solving the same problems, even though you "have a system for that?" This episode reveals a deeper issue: a lack of coaching and accountability. Learn why stepping in to create workarounds or simply telling people what to do can be a major leadership failure. Discover how to get to the root cause of recurring problems and empower your team to follow a simplified process. For more resources on developing leadership skills visit us at Revela. Where we've helped hundreds of executives lead productive teams and thriving organizations. This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative.

Many students have never heard of Industrial & Systems Engineering — and even fewer understand the incredible impact it has on the world. This episode of Problem Solved: The IISE Podcast explores a creative solution to that challenge: the ISE Impact Short Video Contest, which invites students and professionals to explain ISE's value in just 60 seconds.You'll hear from:Dr. Ana Muriel, associate professor at UMass Amherst and co-creator of the contestHannah Brooks, a nursing student who used stop-motion animation to tackle global food securityAnwaar Zyoud, an industrial engineer who used ISE methods to transform her Taekwondo performanceTogether, they show how creativity, storytelling, and problem-solving can inspire the next generation of engineers.Learn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTokProblem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth GrimesInterested in contributing to the podcast? Email egrimes@iise.org

What's the #1 frustration most lean and continuous improvement practitioners face?It's something that I bet you've felt too, no matter how passionate you are about the work, no matter what you call it: lean, agile, continuous improvement, operational excellence, or DevOps...Too often, we struggle to clearly explain what we actually do as CI change leaders and why it matters. And when you can't articulate the deeper value of lean or OpEx, it's hard to get the buy-in needed to lead the organizational transformation you envision.In this episode, I take you inside a qualitative survey of 100+ change leaders—from internal continuous improvement practitioners and leaders, to external consultants and coaches, executives and operations leaders—on what draws us to this field of organizational improvement, what fuels our passion, and what holds us back from the impact we know is possible.Before listening to this episode, take a moment to reflect on:What lights you up about your work?What's the top challenge you keep running into?If you love lean and continuous improvement and are ready to overcome the frustrations holding you and your organization back from real transformation, then this episode is for you.YOU'LL LEARN:Three things we love the most about this work as continuous improvement and lean change leadersThe #1 frustration holding you back (hint: it's not about the tools or frameworks)Why a shift from McGregor's Theory X (command and control) to Theory Y (empowered problem-solving) management mindset is critical to your impact—and why lean efforts fail without itThe paradox of trying to influence deeply ingrained management and leadership beliefs and behaviorsThree practical ways you can start changing both the story and the system IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/52Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonDownload my free KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst Hear how Gustavo influenced significant business results after participating in my Japan Leadership ExperienceTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:03:01 Reflection questions on your own experience as a lean and continuous improvement practitioner03:53 Top three things that light us up and fuels our passion03:58 [FIRST] Problem solving that directly impact people's ability to work meaningfully04:51 Survey examples of what leaders love about solving problems06:16 [SECOND] People development and empowerment07:07 Survey examples of what leaders love about empowering people to solve problems08:50 [THIRD] Tangible and meaningful impact09:52 Survey examples of what leaders love about creating meaningful impact for people, organizations, and systems10:46 Change leader's frustration: leadership buy-in 12:57 The deeper truth in what's stopping us from leading real organizational transformation13:18 Challenges in changing mindsets and shifting behaviors in an organization13:42 The meaning of Douglas McGregor's Theory X and Theory Y and the relationship to lean16:00 The paradox in changing mindset management and leadership for change leaders17:12 Three practical tips to shift shift the story and the system17:18 [FIRST] Acknowledge the size of the challenge18:07 [SECOND] Speak the language of business19:07 One of the best examples of how a leader effectively led change through influence 20:54 [THIRD] Pair technical process improvement skills with influence and human-focused skills22:54 The consistent themes from the survey of loving this work and wanting to make meaningful impact23:54 Take the next step in expanding your influence skills

What if the way we think about problems is holding us back from solving them? Tom Wujec — designer, technologist, and multiple-time TED speaker — joins Problem Solved to explore how visual problem solving can help industrial and systems engineers tackle challenges of every size, from simple process fixes to wicked problems like climate change and AI disruption.In this episode, we discuss:Why traditional problem-solving methods often failThe four types of problems — simple, complicated, complex, and wicked — and why they need different approachesThe power of “plays” — structured, visual activities that align teams and unlock solutionsHow visualization frees up mental bandwidth, builds shared understanding, and drives better decisionsFive key shifts engineers can make to become better collaborative problem-solversWhether you work in manufacturing, healthcare, tech, or supply chain, Tom's approach will expand your toolkit and transform the way you lead teams through today's most complex challenges.Watch this episode on YouTube to see Tom's method's in action!tomwujec.comTed TalksBuild a Tower, Build a TeamGot a Wicked Problem? First, Tell me how you make ToastMaking Ideas Visible3 Ways the brain creates meaning"Art Before Breakfast" by Danny GregorySponsor: This episode is sponsored by IISE's Performance Excellence Webinars. Learn from global thought leaders on operational excellence, data analytics, leadership, and more.Learn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTokProblem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth GrimesInterested in contributing to the podcast? Email egrimes@iise.org

USMC Veteran that spent most of his career doing CNC and warehousing. More recently, Project Management and Process Improvement, while writing.I have fought abuses of power my whole life including being a whistleblower in the USMC. My book spawned from a worry that my relationship with my daughter could eventually become strained and I wanted her to always be able to learn lessons from my mistakes even if she didn't want to approach me directly and an ever increasing realization that our freedoms are eroded with each passing year.https://jemcmahon.comhttps://www.dubby.gg/discount/minddog...https://tantaly.pxf.io/jezWbe https://invideo.sjv.io/c/3290446/1543...https://mindbloom.sjv.io/c/3290446/15...https://daily-high-club-affiliate-pro...https://www.opus.pro/?via=a28600https://goodbru.com/?sca_ref=8203535....DONATE TO THE CHANNEL: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted...

Enter to win a copy of "The Problem Solver's Toolkit" by Tracy O'Rourke and Elisabeth Swan by September 12.Organizations invest thousands of dollars and countless hours into lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement training programs. Certifications get awarded. Belts get earned.But nothing actually changes.Technical problem-solving training alone isn't enough to drive meaningful impact. Without guidance and support on how to apply problem-solving tools—and the people-side of leading change—improvements stall. In this episode of Chain of Learning, I'm joined by Tracy O'Rourke and Elisabeth Swan, co-founders of the Just-in-Time Café and co-authors of "The Problem-Solver's Toolkit." With more than 50 years of combined Lean Six Sigma experience, they've trained and coached thousands of problem-solvers across industries—from healthcare and government to manufacturing and service—helping teams turn knowledge into real results.Whatever problem-solving method you use—DMAIC, PDCA, or an A3—you'll walk away with practical insights to help you bridge the gap between knowledge and action.YOU'LL LEARN:Why traditional training programs fail to create lasting problem-solving capability—and what to do insteadThe importance of bringing others along in a change project and staying flexible and curious as the work evolvesWhy successful and sustainable problem-solving requires both technical know-how and people skillsHow to engage teams, navigate change, and keep momentum going while leading a process improvement team How to close the gap between learning and doing by turning skills into real-world resultsABOUT MY GUESTS:Tracy O'Rourke is a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, and co-founder of the Just-in-Time Café. As a sought-after consultant, instructor, and speaker with over 25 years of experience, Tracy specializes in cultural change, leadership development, strategic alignment, and process improvement. Elisabeth Swan is a leadership coach, keynote speaker, award-winning author of “Picture Yourself a Leader”, and co-founder of the Just-in-Time Café. Elisabeth brings decades of experience helping Fortune 100 companies and nonprofits embrace conscious leadership and continuous improvement. IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/51My website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comConnect with Tracy O'Rourke: linkedin.com/in/tracy-orourkeConnect with Elisabeth Swan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisabethswanFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonDownload my free KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst Get your copy of the “Problem-Solver's Toolkit”: www.jitcafe.com/book My Japan Leadership Experience: kbjanderson.com/japantrip TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:01:37 The inspiration behind the “Problem Solvers Toolkit” 02:54 The disconnect between what is education and what leads to retention 04:22 The aha moments in creating the revised second edition in leading process improvement05:55 Potholes and detours as a metaphor in process improvements not going the perfect way06:36 The journey of continuous improvement in taking your team on the journey with you07:26 Incorporating road games in getting the team involved in problem solving11:03 What led Tracy and Elisabeth to want to help people in leading process improvement13:31 The real meaning of being a leader — more than just being a senior executive16:04 The difference between lean and Six Sigma18:24 Why the process steps matter more than the name19:22 Why people feel lean has failed20:38 Additional learnings in making the second edition of “The Problem-Solver's Toolkit” 21:53 Changes made in the second edition including graphics, examples and templates22:19 What the Just-in-Time Café digital toolkit includes 25:23 How to solve problems based on solving similar problems27:19 The 5S Baby spoof music video inspired by process solving tools29:12 The next spoof song based on root cause analysis33:16 Elisabeth's takeaways from the Japan Leadership Experience in seeing worker happiness34:53 The importance of focusing on human happiness and engagement for growth36:53 Tracy's takeaways from the Japan Leadership Experience 40:00 Top recommendation for being the most effective in getting traction in solving problems41:41 The importance of building curiosity to get to know people and their experiences43:34 What is involved in successful problem-solving44:14 How to close the gap between learning and doing Enter to win a copy of "The Problem Solver's Toolkit" by Tracy O'Rourke and Elisabeth Swan by September 12. Apply today for the Japan Leadership Experience — last chance to join the November 2025 cohort. Applications also open for May 2026.

In this episode of The Rainmaking Podcast, Scott Love interviews Catherine MacDonagh, a legal industry consultant and author of Lean Six Sigma for Law. Catherine explains how process improvement—defined as analyzing and refining repeatable, describable steps to achieve better outcomes—can significantly enhance client service, profitability, and rainmaking. She notes that while lawyers often resist by saying every matter is unique, many steps in legal work and firm operations (like intake, billing, or onboarding) are recurring processes ripe for improvement. By using tools such as scorecards, impact/ease matrices, and stakeholder analysis, firms can identify high-impact areas, streamline workflows, and improve both client and employee experiences. Catherine shares real-world success stories, including a global law department that collaborated with a law firm to reduce billing inefficiencies and deepen their relationship. She stresses the importance of involving cross-functional teams, listening to the “voice of the client,” and embedding change management into the process. Continuous improvement, she argues, is not just about efficiency—it's about building stronger client partnerships and staying competitive. Catherine closes with three action steps: start by trying small improvements, commit to continuous learning, and build skills in Lean, Six Sigma, and related disciplines. Her message is clear: process improvement works in law, and adopting it can transform rainmaking efforts and client development. Visit: https://therainmakingpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/Q36c2IBRpdc ---------------------------------------

In this episode of Dealer Talk, we dive deep into mindset, leadership, and making bold decisions in business. I'm thrilled to sit down with my long-time friend and client, Inder Dosanjh, whose journey from technician to owning 17 car dealerships is nothing short of inspiring. We also welcome Munish Mahajan, Inder's co-founder, CEO & President, who brings a tech-forward, transformative approach to dealership operations. We talk about: The mindset shifts that move you from “just a job” to building something bigger. The challenges of scaling a dealership business while keeping your team motivated and empowered. How data, AI, and smart processes can fill gaps in dealership operations. The power of complementary skill sets in partnerships and leadership. Real-life crossroads that define companies and leaders—and how to make bold decisions when the stakes are high. Whether you're a dealership owner, GM, frontline manager, or part of a BDC team, this episode is packed with insights on growth, transformation, and taking action—even when it feels risky.

Apply for the Nov 2025 (limited spots remaining) or May 2026 Japan Leadership Experiencehttps://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/ “Change the culture!”That's exactly what longtime Toyota leader Isao Yoshino was tasked with during one of the most famous business transformations in history—NUMMI—Toyota's joint venture with General Motors in the 1980s.The challenge? Take GM's worst-performing plant—plagued by absenteeism, low morale, and poor quality—and turn it around.Within just one year, with the same American workforce but under Toyota's leadership, NUMMI became GM's best-performing site.Behind the scenes was Mr. Yoshino, leading the design and delivery of a three-week training program in Japan for hundreds of NUMMI's frontline and middle managers.In this episode, Mr. Yoshino shares the inside story of NUMMI's transformation—how an experiment in a business turnaround became a “New Me” moment for its leaders—and the leadership lessons you can use to influence culture change without relying on authority.If you're a lean practitioner or change leader wondering how to truly “change a culture,” this is a rare chance to hear the story directly from the person who lived it.You'll Learn:Why you can't force culture change—and what to do insteadHow Mr. Yoshino and his team created  immersive learning experiences that shifted NUMMI leaders' mindsets in just three weeksWhy the “Check” step in PDCA is the secret to Toyota's sustained success How the andon process reshaped leaders' views on problems—and how a “no problem is a problem” and no-blame mindset fosters learning and continuous improvementWhy NUMMI's transformation was as much (or more) about people as it was about performanceABOUT MY GUEST:Isao Yoshino, worked at Toyota Motor Corporation for over 40 years—from the late 1960s to the early 2000s—and played an important role in the development of Toyota's people-centered learning culture it's now famous for. He was a key part of Kan-Pro senior leadership development program, which embedded A3 thinking as the process for problem-solving, communication, and leadership development across the organization—and has deep expertise in the practice of hoshin-kanri—Toyota's strategy deployment process. He's the subject of the Shingo award-winning book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn: Lessons from Toyota Leader Isao Yoshino on a Lifetime of Continuous Learning”IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes with links to other podcast episodes and resources: ChainOfLearning.com/50Check out my website for resources and ways to work with me KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonDownload my free KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst Learn more about the Japan Leadership Experience: kbjanderson.com/japantrip For an even deeper behind-the-scenes look at NUMMI, read the dedicated chapter in my book: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.com TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:03:02 How Isao Yoshino felt to be tasked with changing the culture and attitude of NUMMI leaders04:27 Creating the space for leaders to experience working in Japan and Toyota's style09:21 Positive results from employees changing their attitude mindset themselves without being forced12:06 The importance of “check” in the PDCA process 14:38 Making the “check” process a positive experience in learning how to improve systems without blame18:10 The critical difference between the former GM culture and Toyota with their approach to problems19:12 The mindset shift of “no problem is a problem” and the impact of pulling the andon cord20:19 The positive results from lettings others learn and grow without force23:09 Reflections from Isao Yoshino about being part of the Japan Leadership Experience and continuing to learn something new24:38 The acronym for NUMMI and the deeper meaning of, “New Me” to become the best version of yourself Apply for the Nov 2025 (limited spots remaining) or May 2026 Japan Leadership Experiencehttps://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/ 

In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Join host Deb Coviello as she welcomes David Jenyns, entrepreneur and founder of Systemology, to discuss how business owners can free themselves from daily operations by building effective systems. David shares his journey from selling the Melbourne Cricket Ground to systematizing businesses, and offers actionable insights for leaders looking to scale and optimize their organizations. Episode Highlights: 01:12 — David’s entrepreneurial journey: from selling the Melbourne Cricket Ground to founding Systemology 12:01 — The seven-stage process for systematizing a business and why “process first” matters 27:14 — Real-world impact: How systemization saved a business 1,000 man-hours and empowered team members 41:01 — Building a culture of systems: Overcoming resistance and the role of the “systems champion” David Jenyns is an experienced entrepreneur who sold the Melbourne Cricket Ground in his early twenties and founded Melbourne SEO Services. He systemized himself out of that business in 2016 and founded SYSTEMology to help business owners implement systems to scale their business. Today, he supports a growing community of certified SYSTEMologists, delivers workshops, keynote addresses, hosts a podcast, and is on a mission to free business owners worldwide from daily operations. Connect with David Jenyns: Company Website: www.systemology.comLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/david-jenyns For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lean: The unsung hero of employee engagement that actually works You might think employee engagement is best created by HR. Think again. In this episode of the Consulting Matters podcast, I'm joined by Tom West and Mark Ryan of Green Dot Consulting - self-proclaimed improvement nerds on a mission to rescue the world from bad processes. If you're a consultant or coach who wants to help your clients improve performance and engagement (especially in these uncertain times), this conversation is a must-listen. We unpack why process improvement isn't just about efficiency… …it's a powerful, people-first strategy that boosts morale, productivity, and performance all at once! Tune in to discover: Why Lean and process improvement is the most overlooked secret to increasing employee engagement What leaders of highly engaged workforces NEVER do when faced with lots of employee complaints Why fixing broken processes (more than recognition or bumps in pay) makes employees feel respected, appreciated, valued and heard Where hidden opportunities for cross-functional collaboration between Lean, HR, and OD are waiting to be uncovered Why consultants and coaches who connect people, process, and profit are needed now more than ever How to make waste the enemy—not the economy—so you can boldly position yourself for the clients who need you right now Listen now and get ready to become an improvement nerd yourself (if you're not already). Where to dive in: (00:00) The Power of Lean for Engagement(04:59) Passion for Process Improvement(11:42) Uncovering Employee Engagement Gaps(27:20) The Value of Employee Engagement(37:58) Collaboration for Operational Excellence(49:19) Empowering People for Success(58:33) Uncovering Lean Process Improvement Value About the guests: Thomas West, founder of GreenDot, is an “Improvement Nerd” with a rare ASQ Master Black Belt and a string of other credentials that prove he's as good with strategy as he is with a stopwatch. A PMP, Organizational Change Management pro, and Malcolm Baldrige Examiner, Thomas helps organizations go from good to great by building cultures where ideas flourish and change sticks. When he's not improving processes, he's training for endurance races or visiting National Parks with his wife and three sons, on track to see them all before the boys graduate. Mark Ryan is a process improvement and operational leader at GreenDot, where he drives organizational change from the ground up. He empowers teams through Lean Six Sigma training and workshops, helping companies eliminate waste, boost efficiency, and build a culture of daily improvement. About the host: Betsy Jordyn is a business mentor, brand messaging strategist, and former Disney consultant who helps purpose-driven consultants and coaches build profitable businesses rooted in their unique strengths. With over 20 years in the industry and a knack for turning big ideas into clear positioning, she's your go-to for strategy that aligns with your calling. Ready to turn your expertise into a business that makes both impact and income? Work with me: https://www.betsyjordyn.com/services

Ever wondered if your people strategy is actually holding your business back? Yvonne Jackson—who's helped companies like Apple untangle their most stubborn people challenges—just dropped a truth bomb that might surprise you: equity isn't a culture problem, it's a process problem. And the fix? It's way less complicated (and a lot quicker) than most leaders think. In this episode, you'll hear how duct-tape solutions and “cute” values might be costing your business more than you realize—and what to do about it. But there's one unconventional move Yvonne makes that flips the whole high-performing team playbook on its head… Want to know what it is? In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how crafting a future of work strategy can transform your leadership and keep your team ahead in a fast-changing world. Unlock the secrets to building high-performing teams that stay motivated and aligned with your business goals. Understand why treating equity as a process problem can shift your entire approach to creating a fair workplace. Learn how to operationalize equity in talent management to drive real, measurable change in your organization. Master succession planning techniques that fuel sustainable business growth and prepare your team for what's next. My special guest is Yvonne Jackson Yvonne Jackson is an experienced business strategist specializing in organizational transformation, talent management, and operational equity. She has worked with major companies such as Apple and Oscar Health, where she led initiatives to align people strategies with core business objectives. Yvonne's expertise includes business process reengineering and identifying process-driven solutions to equity challenges, making her a sought-after advisor for organizations aiming to build high-performing, equitable teams. Her academic background spans the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, as well as international study in Thailand and Milan, giving her a broad perspective on leadership and team dynamics. As the founder of her own leadership consultancy, Yvonne combines practical experience with a global outlook, focusing on sustainable succession planning and the integration of equity into everyday business operations. The key moments in this episode are:00:02:43 - Yvonne Jackson's Background and Cross-Cultural Experiences 00:07:03 - Transitioning from DEI to Process-Driven Equity and Leadership 00:10:23 - Aligning Business Priorities with Equity for Sustainable Impact 00:12:53 - Operationalizing Equity through Process Improvement and Leadership Alignment 00:13:26 - Leveraging Tech and Process Reengineering in Talent Management 00:14:39 - Addressing Organizational Growth Challenges and Realignment Needs 00:17:19 - The Cost of Misalignment and Importance of Metrics in DEI 00:21:48 - Supporting Overwhelmed Leaders to Gain Strategic Clarity 00:25:32 - Revaluing Company Core Values as Decision-Making Tools 00:27:15 - Redesigning Organizational Values for Modern Equity and Decision-Making 00:31:09 - Embracing AI to Identify Workflow Inefficiencies and Drive Strategy 00:32:40 - Recommended Leadership Reading: The Courage to Be Disliked 00:34:07 - Prioritizing Sleep as a Key Productivity Ritual for Leaders 00:36:39 - Changing the World by Shifting Social Media Narratives 00:40:21 - Operationalizing Equity and Centering Humanity in the Future of Work Connect with Yvonne Jackson and her work by visiting her website or finding her on LinkedIn. Get 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp by visiting www.betterhelp.com/difference. Join the Master the Career Pivot course at www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot 10% off with the code: DIFFERENT Rate and review the podcast by tapping 5 stars and leaving a quick review to help more difference makers find the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Audit Podcast, we're joined by Genna Smith, Director of Internal Audit at RYAM.   She believes process improvement starts with mindset, and that even the smallest changes can lead to real impact. In this episode, she shares how she's using tools like ChatGPT to build SOPs from the ground up, standardize processes, and support her team through AI adoption.   We also hear how she approaches ERM, why curiosity is her top hiring trait, and how rebuilding a 2007 Forerunner taught her lessons she brings into leadership. If you're interested in practical ways to improve your audit function or how to lead with intention, this one's for you.   Be sure to connect with Genna on LinkedIn.   Also, be sure to follow us on our social media accounts on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.   Also be sure to sign up for The Audit Podcast newsletter and to check the full video interview on The Audit Podcast YouTube channel.   Timecodes:   1:43 – How ChatGPT Can Support SOP Development 6:26 – Building an Effective Analytics Program 9:50 – The One Thing Every Auditor Should Do 11:15 – How Audit Can Support the Organization on Tariffs 13:05 – Playing a Key Role in ERM Facilitation 19:07 – What Successful ERM Change Looks Like 21:26 – Why Process Improvement Matters 29:00 – Demonstrating Real Impact Through Process Improvement 32:48 – Final Thoughts   *   This podcast is brought to you by Greenskies Analytics, the services firm that helps auditors leap-frog up the analytics maturity model. Their approach for launching audit analytics programs with a series of proven quick-win analytics will guarantee the results worthy of the analytics hype.  Whether your audit team needs a data strategy, methodology, governance, literacy, or anything else related to audit and analytics, schedule time with Greenskies Analytics.    

Apply for the Nov 2025 (limited spots remaining) or May 2026 Japan Leadership Experiencehttps://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/ When you encounter challenges or setbacks, and it feels like things just aren't going your way, it's easy to get caught into a downward negative spiral.  But could simple mindset shifts change not just how you feel, but how you move forward and influence those around you with positive momentum?In this episode, I'm sharing three powerful reframes that have helped me reset, regain perspective, and move through challenges with intention and empowerment. These reframes aren't just personal practices—they're leadership strategies that can help you model resilience, learning, and agency, and inspire the people around you to do the same.This episode isn't about blind optimism or sugarcoating hard things. It's about real, actionable ways to reframe challenges and move forward with greater clarity, strength, and purpose.Learn the three reframes that have helped me (and the leaders I work with) get back up and lead with heart and intention.YOU'LL LEARN:How to reframe your focus from negative to positive and rise with more clarity and confidenceThe story behind the motto that inspires me daily –“Today's a great day” – and how gratitude can ground you in tough momentsWhy setbacks and failures aren't the end, but an opportunity to learn your way forwardHow the Japanese daruma doll became a lesson in resilience—representing the proverb “Fall down seven times, get up eight”How to move from feeling powerless to empowered and why the ball is always in your courtIMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/49Resources and ways to work with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonDownload my free KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalyst Read my book featuring lessons from Isao Yoshino's 40 years of Toyota Leadership: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.com TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:01:56 [1st REFRAME] Find the good—even when it's hard02:03 Katie's dad as the inspiration behind the motto, “Today's a great day”04:23 Isao Yoshino's influence in learning how to shift from negative to positive07:22 The importance of focusing on the good for improvement09:23 [2nd REFRAME] Seeing failures and setbacks as learning opportunities10:17 Why daruma dolls are a reminder of resilience and the Japanese proverb "Fall down seven times, get up eight"12:04 Questions to maintain a learning mindset12:33 The learning zone versus the performance zone from Chain of Learning Episode 5 guest Eduardo Bricino13:37 Reframe exercise to reframe failure to learning opportunity 15:17 [3rd REFRAME] Moving from powerlessness to agency15:51 Understanding, “The ball is in your court” to help how you respond to negative conditions17:07 Achieving goals versus fulfilling your intention18:14 Katie's previous organizational role and how a reframe launched her consulting practice20:19 How two executives used coaching and reflection to shift from solving problems themselves to enabling their teams21:26 Stepping away from frustration and reframing the problem to influence things differently22:51 Reframe exercise to move from inaction to action23:33 Summary of the three reframes25:31 Questions to help shape your day and impact Apply for the Nov 2025 or May 2026 Japan Leadership Experiencehttps://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/ 

In this episode of Remodelers On The Rise, Kyle sits down with Todd and Jill Johnson of Holly Home Renovations. Together, they share the story of how a talented craftsman and a physical therapist teamed up to start and grow a successful remodeling business focused on historic renovations in Minnesota. You'll hear how they've implemented systems step by step, embraced financial clarity, defined roles clearly, and built a business that supports their life—not the other way around. If you're thinking about bringing your spouse into the business or looking for inspiration on how to align your business with your personal values and goals, this one's for you. Tune in and take away practical ideas to strengthen your own remodeling business. ----- Ready to stop guessing and start growing? Visit Contractor Growth Network to see how they help remodelers like you build marketing that works. And for weekly insights that actually move the needle, tune into their podcast: https://www.contractorgrowthnetwork.com/podcast/ ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways Your website should reflect your unique value proposition. Building trust with clients starts before the first call. Establishing clear roles in a partnership is crucial. Financial clarity is essential for business success. Utilizing technology can streamline operations. Community support can enhance business growth. Setting boundaries helps maintain work-life balance. Continuous improvement is key to operational efficiency. Defining your target market can lead to better projects. Contentment in business can lead to sustainable growth. ----- Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Holly Home Renovations 02:57 The Origin Story of Holly Home 09:46 Navigating Challenges and Growth 14:15 Establishing Financial Systems 22:54 Implementing Job Management Software 24:48 Financial Clarity and Business Transformation 27:33 Defining Roles and Responsibilities 35:01 Establishing Boundaries Between Work and Family 39:14 Building a Community in Remodeling 40:28 Vision for the Future of the Business

Unlock the power of Alteryx for tax professionals in this insightful episode of Alter Everything! Join us in an interview with Adrian Steller, Director of Tax Technology at Ryan, to explore how Alteryx revolutionizes tax processes, automates data workflows, and enhances efficiency for tax teams. Discover real-world Alteryx use cases in VAT compliance, transfer pricing, and automation, and learn practical tips for transitioning from Excel to Alteryx. Whether you're a tax analyst, data professional, or business leader, this episode provides actionable insights on leveraging Alteryx for tax data transformation, reporting, and analytics.Panelists: Adrian Steller, Director @ International Tax Technology - LinkedInMegan Bowers, Sr. Content Manager @ Alteryx - @MeganBowers, LinkedInShow notes: Ryan (Company)Ryan Tax Lab (Podcast)Alteryx Community BlogsAlteryx Help Docs Interested in sharing your feedback with the Alter Everything team? Take our feedback survey here!This episode was produced by Megan Bowers, Mike Cusic, and Matt Rotundo. Special thanks to Andy Uttley for the theme music.

Apply for the Nov 2025 or May 2026 Japan Leadership Experiencehttps://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/ You're implementing the tools.Making the improvements.Delivering the project results.But the same problems keep resurfacing and you're left wondering: What's missing?In this episode, Josef Procházka, a lean consultant from the Czech Republic, shares his personal journey of transformation—from frustrated practitioner to heart-led coach—and the impact his shift in approach to consulting has had for his clients and for himself.Josef began his career focused on tools, metrics, and deliverables. But something didn't feel right.After reading Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn and joining two of my Japan Leadership Experience programs, Josef experienced a transformation of both mind and heart. He found a more meaningful path: one centered on people, purpose, and intentional leadership.Whether you're an external consultant, internal improvement or operational leader, or simply looking to grow your impact—Josef's story is a reminder that real change doesn't come from better systems alone. This episode will challenge you to rethink how you show up to lead change, what transformation really requires, and what it means to lead with intention.YOU'LL LEARN:How Josef shifted from tool-based delivery to people-centered transformationWhat it looks like to reframe 5S (a workplace organizational practice) into a more meaningful, people-centered practiceThe mindset change required to stop “doing Lean” for others and start leading change with themWays personal growth can unlock deeper change for your clients and organizationsWhy sustainable improvement depends on connecting people and purpose—not just applying toolsABOUT MY GUEST:Josef Procházka is a Lean Six Sigma consultant from the Czech Republic with 20+ years of experience helping manufacturing companies improve productivity, streamline processes, and enhance quality through structured problem-solving and project leadership. He specializes in making Lean practices meaningful by translating tools like 5S and A3 into values-driven change that engages people at every level. IMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/48My website for resources and ways to work with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonDownload my free KATALYST™ Change Leader Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystApply for the Japan Leadership Experience: kbjanderson.com/japantripRead my book that played a role in Josef's leadership transformation: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:03:13 How the Japan Leadership Experiences influenced Josef's transformation05:27 The “aha” shifts that helped his transformation07:59 Why Josef's approach was not making an impact11:00 Reframing 5S to meaningful 5S to increase productivity in a client's workplace17:30 The importance of bringing meaningfulness to create impact20:03 The negative effect of short-term focus without a long-term view22:33 Why Josef decided to come back to the Japan Leadership Experience 25:32 Why Katie is passionate about leading her Japan Leadership Experiences 28:12 The connection leaders feel after the immersive experience in Japan29:07 Positive transformations from two clients Josef invited to the Japan Leadership Experience33:29 Importance of continuing to learn and going towards the North star to be a better leader37:52 Why real leaders practice lean for their team39:21 Josef's story on going to the Japan Leadership Experience44:21 Advice to make a shift towards greater impact46:21 7 key steps to create real long-term impact Apply for the Nov 2025 or May 2026 Japan Leadership Experiencehttps://kbjanderson.com/japantrip/ 

Today, I'm joined by John Gallagher. John is the driving force behind Growing Champions Coaching and is a renowned consultant and coach to some of the world's most respected companies.  In this episode we explore the power of equanimity in communication and discuss how intentional feedback can transform performance.  Whether you're managing a team, navigating change, or simply striving to communicate with greater purpose, this episode delivers actionable strategies and thought-provoking lessons. Let's dive in.Additional Resources:► Follow Communispond on LinkedIn for more communication skills tips: https://www.linkedin.com/company/communispond► Connect with Scott D'Amico on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottdamico/► Connect with John: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachjohngallagher/► Learn more about John's work: https://coachjohngallagher.com/► Subscribe to Communicast: https://communicast.simplecast.com/► Learn more about Communispond: https://www.communispond.com 

The focus of this spotlight episode is hot-side process improvements that will make your brew day quicker, more reliable, and more consistent. We get into the nitty-gritty of tank jackets, grist hydration, lauter-tun geometry, pressure differentials, kettle heating, and more, with a clear focus on lean manufacturing, reducing variability with Six Sigma DMAIC models, optimizing systems for the chemical and physical processes of brewing, workflow improvement for efficiency with provable ROI, and more. Joining for this conversation are: Kevan McCrummen: owner and head brewer of Vantage Point Brewing in Coeur D'Alene, Idaho Matthew Whitaker: sales engineer for Boiler Technologies Unlimited Vernon Spaulding: president and owner of Providence Process Solutions This in-depth discussion about hot-side process is brought to you interruption-free by Miura (https://miuraboiler.com), the global leader in modular on-demand steam solutions. Miura's boiler solutions are efficient, safe, and reliable, with flexible fuel options, compact footprints that fit today's breweries, modular expandable systems that grow with your brewery, and monitoring technology that gives you peace of mind. Their boilers are backed by the industry's only pressure-vessel guarantee against corrosion, and they offer a full lineup of equipment that integrates with your boiler, from water softening to de-aeration, reverse osmosis, and more. Learn more or contact them at Miuraboiler.com (https://miuraboiler.com).