Podcasts about systems thinking

Today, we're joined by Pete Hunt, CEO at Dagster Labs, building out Dagster, the data orchestration platform built for productivity. We talk about:Challenges of determining software pricing with AI workers using appsHow barriers to AI adoption are similar to what we've known in SaaS for a million yearsAI-driven shifts in the workplace [Many disciplines will look a lot more like engineering]How outside sales is among the most durable job functions in the AI eraAdvice for new college grads

Guiding Question:How might schools empower students by giving them more agency in their learning and evolving curricula to better reflect their needs and interests? Key Takeaways:Strengthening collaboration through building more effective teams The future of education is not one size fits allLeaning in to AI - AI is a good collaborator, but is not a good leader. And it's not cheating.If you have enjoyed this podcast please take a moment to subscribe, and also we'd appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. The way the algorithm works, this helps our podcast reach more listeners. Thanks from IC for your support. Learn more about how Inspire Citizens co-designs customized student leadership and changemakers programsJoin the community at What School Could BeCheck out Role Color FinderConnect with more stories from the Inspire Citizens network in our vignettesMeasuring the IMPACT of Service Learning projects and initiatives Access free resources for global citizenship educationShare on social media using #EmpathytoImpactEpisode Summary On this episode, I talk to Sanjay, a high school freshman and CEO of Role Color Finder. Join us as we as we discuss how this tool can help us to learn about our strengths as leaders and build stronger collaborations within our teams. Sanjay also shares his thoughts on the future of education and how AI might support schools to move away from a one size fits all approach to a more personalized model of learning that will lead to greater student agency and engagement in schools. If you are thinking about identifying strengths, AI's role in education, student engagement and wellbeing and managing unsustainable workloads for students and educators, or maybe something out-of-the-box like having angel investors to support young, aspiring entrepreneurs in schools, this podcast for you.Discover a transformative podcast on education and learning from a student perspective and student voice, exploring media, media literacy, and media production to inspire citizens in schools through a media lab focused on 21st-century learning, empathy to impact, Global citizenship, collaboration, systems thinking, service learning, PBL, CAS, MYP, PYP, DP, Service as Action, futures thinking, project-based learning, sustainability, well-being, harmony with nature, community engagement, experiential learning, and the role of teachers and teaching in fostering well-being and a better future.

What does it actually take to say yes in healthcare when the system is wired to say no? In this episode of The Disrupted Podcast, Scott takes you straight into the field — from a brand-new administrator in Marietta, Georgia who's already revolutionizing her building eight days in, to a 190-patient facility in Charleston where the real conversation isn't about hospice referrals, it's about whether you have the staff to back it up. Scott gets honest about the moments where healthcare organizations talk a big game but fold when it matters — refusing acute visits to non-panel patients, locking providers into rigid workflows, and hiring bodies instead of talent. He challenges all of it. And he does it with the kind of clarity that only comes from someone who's actually in the buildings, at the dinner tables, and on the phone doing the hard work every day. From a nurse who deserves a Tesla to a wristband that could change emergency response forever, this episode is packed with real stories, bold ideas, and a simple but radical belief: that getting to the yes isn't just good business — it's the whole point of healthcare. If you're a provider, administrator, nurse, or healthcare leader who's tired of the way things have always been done, this one's for you. www.YourHealth.Org

Send a textENGINEERING CH∆NGE® is Back!If you checked out the reboot trailer, you know this season is more focused, more structured, and more intentional.This episode is a reminder of the foundational framework for ENGINEERING CH∆NGE®...  REDEFINE.REDEFINE helps us examine the dimensions of engineering work that shape outcomes:RE-image who we see as engineers and what we see as engineering;DE-silo our approach to academic programs, research, and problem solving; FINE-tune organizational conditions so people with different backgrounds and perspectives can contribute fully to outcomes that serve all of society.Throughout this season, we'll return to these three elements as we explore leadership, ethics, convergence, community engagement, and other aspects of our organizational systems. This episode lays the foundation and context for what's to come.The System CheckThis episode also introduces The System Check, a closing reflection you'll hear each week.It's a structured pause to help you look more clearly at the system you're operating in. This episode asks:How is engineering defined in your context, by language, imagery, and context?What conditions shape who is able to contribute meaningfully, and when?How often do you step back to examine whether the system you're part of is designed to support the outcomes it claims to value?Because change begins with how clearly we see.If You're Glad ENGINEERING CH∆NGE® Is BackFollow the show so you don't miss the rest of the season.Leave a 5-star rating and short written review; it helps other agents of change find the podcast.Share this episode with a colleague who cares about strengthening engineering from the inside out.Thanks for being part of this next chapter of ENGINEERING CH∆NGE®!Visit the ENGINEERING CH∆NGE® podcast website to learn more and to request a free copy of my new brief, Engineering for Society.Support the showENGINEERING CHΔNGE® is a registered trademark held by Dr. Yvette E. Pearson for producing and providing podcasts.

Our host Audrey is joined by Jodi Smits Anderson. Jodi is a subject matter guide (SMG) and collaborative leader with deep experience in embodied carbon, energy codes, the AIA Framework for Design Excellence, and identifying the synergies between the false silos we have created in her industry. She is the Founder and CCDD of 2bGreener, LLC, consulting on and offering education, integration of sustainability into business practices, and inspiration through connective and engaging presentations. Sustainability, resilience, health, equity, joy, education, justice and Nature are all linked, and recognizing this and thinking in this way changes everything for the better. Jodi is a Fellow of the AIA, has spoken nationally at Living Futures, USGBC's Greenbuild, NACUBO, DesignWell, and NESEA conferences. She also has a blog-site, and has been a co-host of @DiscoverSustainability on YouTube offering 70 inspiring interview sessions. Jodi is a co-founder of the Albany Riverfront Collaborative seeking to heal the infrastructure and community damages of the past in Albany, NY, and has taught Systems Thinking and Professional Practice at SUNY ESF and RPI respectively. Jodi's passion for this work is, frankly, that it is more fun to work with great people and more joyful to learn and evolve that work over time. And we have so very much work to do!Previous Climate Check Episode on Local Law 972bgreener WebsiteUrban Green Council & Local Law 97Northeast Sustainable Energy Association WebsiteOld Blood and Strong Language Blog Post

Welcome to the 100th episode of A Job Done Well—where we celebrate the art of calling out corporate nonsense and replacing it with something that actually works. This week, we're joined by John Seddon, a management thinker so influential he's got his own Wikipedia page (unlike James, who may or may not have written his own). John's spent decades proving that traditional management—targets, incentives, standardisation—doesn't just fail to improve performance; it actively makes things worse.John's approach is simple: stop incentivising the wrong things. Most organisations reward behaviours that undermine their own goals. Engineers rushed to fix boilers in 15 minutes? They'll be back six times a year. Call centre agents hitting sales targets? They're hanging up on customers who won't buy. Incentives don't drive performance—they drive gaming, cheating, and a race to the bottom.Highlights include:Why failure demand—work caused by previous errors—is crippling your team (and how to spot it).How to redesign systems so your team can actually use their judgment (instead of following scripts).The Aviva case study: How blending call centres boosted capacity by 20%—without adding staff.Why specialisation is a myth, and how it's costing you more than you think.How to make your boss curious about what's really going wrong.If you've ever watched your team chase targets while the real work piles up, this episode is your wake-up call. John's not here to sell you a quick fix—he's here to help you burn the rulebook and start again.Key Points:Incentives create perverse outcomes—people game the system, not improve it.Failure demand is a symptom of a broken system, not lazy staff.Specialisation sounds efficient but creates silos, inefficiency, and frustration.Redesign systems around customer purpose, not internal targets.Leaders won't change unless you make them curious—show, don't tell.Got a question - get in touch. Click here.

Episode Summary In this episode of the Work at Home Rockstar Podcast, Tim Melanson chats with Bill Flynn, CEO of Catalyst Growth Advisors, about what it really takes to build a business that thrives, not just survives. Bill shares a powerful story of stepping into leadership during a crisis, rebuilding a company after an infrastructure collapse, and creating a performance operating system that doubled the business in two years without losing a single team member. From hiring for values over skills to escaping the "hero trap," Bill breaks down the three pillars of sustainable growth: team, systems, and cash. The conversation also dives into navigating today's fast-changing BANI world, using AI as an accelerant instead of a crutch, and why the fundamentals of attracting customers haven't changed at all. Who is Bill Flynn? Bill Flynn is the CEO of Catalyst Growth Advisors, where he helps leaders take the guesswork out of growth. With 30 years of experience across ten startups, multiple acquisitions, two IPOs, and a major turnaround during the 2008 financial crisis, Bill now coaches leaders on how to build thriving, scalable businesses. He is the author of Further, Faster – The Vital Few Steps that Take the Guesswork out of Growth and specializes in helping CEOs fire themselves from the day-to-day so they can focus on building systems that scale. Connect with Bill Flynn: Website: https://catalystgrowthadvisors.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billflynnpublic/ Host Contact Details: Website: https://workathomerockstar.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/workathomerockstar Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workathomerockstar LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timmelanson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WorkAtHomeRockStarPodcast X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/workathomestar Email: tim@workathomerockstar.com In this Episode: 00:00 Welcome & Meet Bill Flynn (Catalyst Growth Advisors) 00:20 Success Story: From Startup Veteran to Helping a Struggling Founder Sell 02:22 The Best/Worst Day: Email Infrastructure Collapse After the Acquisition 03:17 Building a DIY EOS: Roadmaps, Team Ownership, and Turning Disaster into Growth 06:06 Lessons from the 'Bad Note': Small Leadership Mistakes & Hiring for Values 08:30 How Great Companies Thrive: Team, Systems Thinking, and Cash as the Truth Metric 13:39 Why He Loves Startups: The Puzzle Mindset and Knowing When It's Time to Move On 16:34 Escaping the Hero Trap: From Controller to Builder to Architect (Scaling Leadership) 20:20 'Lazy and Clever' Leadership: Designing a Company That Doesn't Need You 21:52 Leadership in a BANI World: Why CEOs Must Adapt Fast 24:14 AI as an Accelerant: Planning Less, Building Adaptability More 27:28 Practical AI Wins: Writing Faster, Learning on the Go 29:41 Don't Trust the First Answer: Verifying AI & Avoiding Hallucinations 31:26 Getting Fans Today: The 'Jobs To Be Done' Framework 32:12 Snickers to McDonald's: How Packaging & Delivery Drive Sales 37:52 What's Next for Bill: New Books, Better Strategy for the BANI Era 39:08 Where to Find Bill + The Rockstar Question (Billy Joel) 42:30 Final Thanks & Sign-Off

An interview with Roger Warren — an experienced aerospace design engineer, prototype specialist, and passionate community builder in the aviation and space sector.Roger brings decades of hands-on engineering experience across aerospace, medical devices, advanced product design, and human-powered flight. From working on the Airbus Zephyr stratospheric UAV program in the UK to leading research prototyping at the Surgical Engineering Lab at the University of Auckland, Roger's career reflects a deep commitment to solving complex engineering challenges through experimentation, systems thinking, and practical innovation .He currently serves as Vice Chair of the Royal Aeronautical Society – New Zealand Division, Auckland Branch, where he is helping re-energize the aerospace community and break down silos across the sector .With a background spanning fluid mechanics, human factors, lightweight structures, extreme environments, and space systems engineering , Roger combines technical depth with a strong belief in collaboration and affordability in aviation.Hosts:  SpaceBase Founder Emeline Paat-DahlstromResourcesAirbus Zephyr High Altitude Platform Station (HAPS)Auckland Bioengineering InstituteUniversity of Auckland Aeronautics ClubNew Zealand Royal Aeronautical Society Auckland BranchSupport the show

Summary In this episode, Andy talks with Wharton economist Judd Kessler, author of Lucky by Design: The Hidden Economics You Need to Get More of What You Want. If you have ever looked at someone else's career success and thought, "They just got lucky," this conversation will give you a new lens. Judd introduces the idea of "hidden markets," the informal rules and systems that shape who gets opportunities, access, and scarce resources, even when money is not changing hands. They explore how leaders can evaluate allocation rules using Judd's three Es (equitable, efficient, and easy), why first come, first served "races" often reward availability more than merit, and how waiting lists can quietly shift costs onto the people least able to pay them. You will also hear Judd's "settle for silver" strategy, a practical way to make smarter choices in competitive markets, plus a thoughtful parenting angle on teaching kids to notice rules and incentives early. If you're looking for a fresh, research-backed perspective on how hidden rules shape who gets opportunities at work and in life, this episode is for you! Sound Bites "The goal of the book is to get people to start to recognizing these markets all around us." "In most of these markets, they play by a simple rule that we all understand, which is if you're willing to pay for the thing, then you get it." "Is the way that we're deciding who gets what... is it equitable? Is it efficient? And is it easy for market participants?" "I open my calendar and I see all these recurring meetings on my calendar, recurring meetings that were set up years or months ago. That's first in time, first in right." "If you understand the rules and develop strategies to get what you want from the market, then you actually can be one of the handful that actually gets the thing, that desirable outcome, and then it will look like you got lucky." "It's always going to be the folks who are in the market winning who are always going to think that it's fair." "Once you start thinking like, how am I actually allocating these things? That's when you've put on that market designer hat." "They'll come to you kind of with half-baked ideas because they know if they wait later on until they can fully bake the idea that the resources or the fun parts of the project might already be gone." "Part of what the Settle for Silver / Go for Gold Strategy is forcing you to do, is to think seriously about what you want and why you want it." "You, as a parent, you are designing the markets that your kids play in all the time." "We're not breaking the rules, but we are figuring out what they are so that we can put ourselves in a good position, and that's going to serve you well." "Maybe by being in the office, you are signaling your dedication to the firm that you're available for all of these opportunities." "If it's something that anybody can do, like send a quick email, right? That's, it's not actually costly. Anybody could send that email even if they're not truly dedicated and eager for the opportunity." "You cannot get all three E's for sure in any allocation mechanism. There's always going to be tradeoffs." Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:41 Start of Interview 01:49 Growing Up and Thinking About Luck 03:00 Introducing Hidden Markets 07:10 The Three E's: Equitable, Efficient, and Easy 08:08 Live Event Tickets as a Case Study 12:50 High Frequency Trading and Hidden Races 15:21 Common Misunderstandings of the Three E's 17:04 Races Inside Organizations and Project Teams 20:25 Proximity, Signaling, and Opportunity at Work 23:03 Are We Selecting for the Right Behavior? 25:41 Stepping Back to Evaluate Your Own Systems 25:52 Colorado River Water Rights and Recurring Meetings 29:09 The Settle for Silver Strategy 30:57 The French Laundry Reservation Story 32:51 Settle for Silver in College Admissions 37:22 Helping Kids Recognize Rules and Incentives 41:03 End of Interview 41:32 Andy Comments After the Interview 44:34 Outtakes Learn More You can learn more about Judd and his work at JuddBKessler.com/book. For more learning on this topic, check out: Episode 265, a short video episode Andy put together about the topic of luck. Check it out! Episode 339 with Katy Milkman. Katy is the person who gave Andy the heads-up about Judd's book. In episode 339, they talk about her book How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be. It's a great discussion with another researcher who knows how to make the learning practical for all of us. Episode 372 with Annie Duke. Annie is a former world champion poker player who is a big fan of Judd's book. How does a poker player think about luck? Check out episode 372 to find out! Pass the PMP Exam This Year If you or someone you know is thinking about getting PMP certified, we've put together a helpful guide called The 5 Best Resources to Help You Pass the PMP Exam on Your First Try. We've helped thousands of people earn their certification, and we'd love to help you too. It's totally free, and it's a great way to get a head start. Just go to 5BestResources.PeopleAndProjectsPodcast.com to grab your copy. I'd love to help you get your PMP this year! Join Us for LEAD52 I know you want to be a more confident leader–that's why you listen to this podcast. LEAD52 is a global community of people like you who are committed to transforming their ability to lead and deliver. It's 52 weeks of leadership learning, delivered right to your inbox, taking less than 5 minutes a week. And it's all for free. Learn more and sign up at GetLEAD52.com. Thanks! Thank you for joining me for this episode of The People and Projects Podcast! Talent Triangle: Power Skills Topics: Luck, Hidden Markets, Behavioral Economics, Leadership, Decision Making, Resource Allocation, Organizational Design, Career Strategy, Signaling, Systems Thinking, Equity, Project Management The following music was used for this episode: Music: Echo by Alexander Nakarada License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Fashion Corporate by Frank Schroeter License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Send a textIn this episode, we join Matt Ketterer, a seasoned engineer, at Pipeline Media Studio's inaugural session. Matt shares his career journey, from his initial foray into mechanical engineering to his pivotal shift towards controls and software engineering. He discusses his early days at a medical device company, his methodical approach to learning and applying new skills, and the importance of reading technical manuals, which aided his transition into controls engineering. Matt also offers insights into balancing mechanics and software, fostering curiosity, and the holistic thinking required for successful engineering projects. Ideal for engineers considering a shift in disciplines or those interested in comprehensive system design, Matt's story is both inspirational and instructive.LINKS:Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewketterer/Aaron Moncur, hostDownload the Essential Guide to Designing Test Fixtures: https://pipelinemedialab.beehiiv.com/test-fixture Subscribe to the show to get notified so you don't miss new episodes every Friday.The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us Watch the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TeamPipelineus

Peter Maddison and Dave Sharrock sit down with Steve Pereira, founder of Visible Flow Consulting, to talk about something most organizations get backwards: the obsession with efficiency at the expense of actual flow.Steve works with large companies to improve operational performance through value stream mapping and continuous delivery. But the conversations he keeps having aren't about cutting costs. They're about untethering capable people from the systems that are quietly holding them back.In this episode, the three dig into why high utilization is often the enemy of good work, how lean thinking applies to knowledge work without losing what makes knowledge work different, and why adding AI on top of a broken system just makes things break faster.If your organization feels like it should be doing more than it is, this one's worth your time. And if you want all 4 takeaways, don't miss the last few minutes of the episode.This week´s takeaways: Step back from the work to look at how the work works. Whether it's a value stream mapping session or a quiet moment of reflection, intentional distance helps you see not just whether the saw is dull, but whether you're sawing the right tree.High utilization is not efficiency. Running people and teams at full capacity removes the slack needed to respond, adapt, and make good decisions. Optimal is closer to 80 percent. The rest needs to be budgeted, not eliminated.Understand your system before adding new tools. Whether it's AI, automation, or the latest framework, bolting new capabilities onto a system you don't fully understand tends to make existing problems worse, not better. Map first. Then act.Extra Resources:

What is your practice of systems thinking?...Today, Abbie and Gerald explore the ongoing practice of defining and redefining systems; the relationship between boundaries and meaning-making; the impact of moral forces on naming the 'sacred' and 'profane;' the inter-relational complexity that goes beyond otherness and belonging: the twin myths of non-intervention and non-communication; the connection between reason and emotion; and the emergent nature of systems. ...Gerald Midgley is an Emeritus Professor of Systems Thinking in the Centre for Systems Studies, University of Hull, UK. He also holds visiting professorships at the University of Birmingham (UK), the Australian National University and Linnaeus University (Sweden). He has held research leadership roles in both UK academia and New Zealand government, and has undertaken a wide variety of public policy, public health, natural resource management, community development and technology foresight projects. Gerald was the 2013/14 President of the International Society for the Systems Sciences. He has written or edited almost 400 papers and 12 books, including "Systemic Intervention: Philosophy, Methodology, and Practice" (Kluwer, 2000); "Systems Thinking" (Sage, 2003); "Community Operational Research: OR and Systems Thinking for Community Development" (Kluwer, 2004); "The Handbook of Systems Thinking" (Open Science, 2023); and "Systems of Marginalization and Identity" (Routledge, 2026, in press)....Stories Lived. Stories Told. is created, produced & hosted by Abbie VanMeter.Stories Lived. Stories Told. is an initiative of the CMM Institute for Personal and Social Evolution....Music for Stories Lived. Stories Told. is created by Rik Spann....CMM Institute SubstackCMM Institute Events Page…⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Explore all things Stories Lived. Stories Told. here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Explore all things CMM Institute here.

Send us a MessageIn this episode of Culture Change RX, Sue Tetzlaff, cofounder of Capstone Leadership Solutions, discusses the prevalent belief in healthcare that working harder leads to better results. She challenges this notion, emphasizing that sustainable success comes from changing how work is done rather than increasing effort. Sue highlights the importance of understanding what needs to be done differently, fostering competency and consistency in new practices, and the role of systems in facilitating transformation. She also addresses the often need for external support in learning how to implement changes effectively and warns against starting from scratch or reinventing the wheel when seeking improvement.Key TakeawaysThe belief that working harder leads to better results is flawed.Sustainable success comes from changing how we work, not how much we work.Better engagement and outcomes require different leadership behaviors.Competency and consistency in new practices is essential for changes in results.External support can significantly aid in the success and speed of organizational transformation.Avoid starting from a blank slate; use proven systems as a foundation for the new way of working.If you are exploring ways to strengthen execution systems and leadership infrastructure, you can learn more about scheduling a complimentary systems discovery conversation here:CapstoneLeadership.net/Contact-UsWe're stepping forward in a bigger way—growing our team of rural healthcare experts, growing our capabilities by adding a strategic planning division … all of this so we can expand our ability to help even more rural hospitals and other small healthcare organizations in 2026. … We'd love to explore how we can support your organization in being the provider- and employer-of-choice so you can keep care local and margins strong! Learn more at CaptoneLeadership.netHi! I'm Sue Tetzlaff. I'm a culture and execution strategist for small and rural healthcare organizations - helping them to be the provider and employer-of-choice so they can keep care local and margins strong.For decades, I've worked with healthcare organizations to navigate the people-side of healthcare, the part that can make or break your results. What I've learned is this: culture is not a soft thing. It's the hardest thing, and it determines everything.When you're ready to take your culture to the next level, here are three ways I can help you:1. Listen to the Culture Change RX PodcastEvery week, I share conversations with leaders who are transforming healthcare workplaces and strategies for keeping teams engaged, patients loyal, and margins healthy. 2. Subscribe to our Email NewsletterGet practical tips, frameworks, and leadership tools delivered right to your inbox—plus exclusive content you won't find on the podcast.

How do you design circular systems, not just circular products? In this episode, Anne Farken from Designworks, a BMW Group Company, talks about why circular design is not only about the product itself, but about the ecosystem around it. The conversation looks at the gap between saying design should be integrated from the beginning and actually thinking product and business model together from day one. What you'll hear in this episode: • How to design the product ecosystem and integrate product development, business model, and value creation from day one • The role of designers in translating business model insights into product requirements and facilitating integration across teams • Why the more you rethink a product, the more you need tolerance for ambiguity and alignment across teams The episode also touches on why constraints and tradeoffs should be seen as creative opportunities. This is the final episode in the series Implementing Circular Design Principles, produced in collaboration with the German Design Council. The series explored how design decisions shape circular outcomes at the material, product, and system level, following the principles of Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.

Donovan Owens has 4 kids, 5 grandkids, 1 Queen, and the single obsession of reviving the Mastery of Masculinity. Retired at 47, after owning a fitness business for 20 years, Donovan spent a year travelling the world until he discovered his new calling: Building a Peaceful Rebellion against society's secret system of traps that seduces men into becoming weak, fat, lost, and distracted.   REPS stands for Repetitive Excellence Produces Success... and is for us freedom-driven men who choose to grow stronger, connect deeper, and create a life of success on our own terms.   0.00:    Intro 5.00:    Becoming a systems thinker 10.00:  Advice to people trying to help friends not commit suicide 15.00:  How fatherhood at 19 changed Donovan 19.00:  Strong self-Fitness 26.00:  Importance of Radical Responsibility 30.00:  What is Freedom? 37.00: Keeping Creativity and Adventure 46.00:  Transitions and Balance 49.00:  Training advice for 40+ year olds 54.00:  The Peaceful Rebellion Website: https://LifeIsREPS.com Newsletter: https://LifeIsREPS.com/newsletter Youtube Channel: https://youtube.com/@lifeisreps Podcast Website: https://enterthelionheart.com/ Check out the latest episode here: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/enter-the-lionheart/id1554904704   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4tD7VvMUvnOgChoNYShbcI   #entrepreneur #health #business #happiness #lifestyle #success #leadership

Summary In this In the Trenches episode, Andy talks with Norman Patnode, Principal at ProChain Solutions, about what it really takes to deliver projects faster and more predictably. With a background in aerospace engineering, the Air Force, and decades of consulting, Norman brings a systems-level perspective to project delivery that goes far beyond managing task lists. They explore the difference between task management and project management, why critical chain thinking shifts the conversation from dates to priorities, and how changing a few key rules can dramatically improve delivery performance. Norman shares why "prioritize, focus, and finish" is more than a slogan, how multitasking quietly robs teams of productivity, and what leaders can do to create clarity and alignment. You'll also hear insights about managing constraints, learning how to learn, and why curiosity is one of the most valuable leadership traits. If you're looking for practical, systems-based ways to improve delivery and reduce chaos on your projects, this episode is for you! Sound Bites "Critical chain is a system to help you get projects done faster and more predictably." "Critical chain is really about how do we help people prioritize, focus, and finish." "I would never go back to what I was doing before. It has ruined me. I just wouldn't live in that world again." "Multitasking robs project teams of anywhere from 15 to 65% of their productivity." "If there are no priorities, then really none of them are important." "The focus is not on getting to a perfect schedule. It's on creating and strengthening alignment of the team's effort." "Reality is undefeated." "Any system has a very few number of constraints, usually one." "If you manage the constraint, you manage the system." "You don't have to learn everything. You just have to be curious and learn how to learn." "Big, impactful things in the world get done through projects." Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:33 Start of Interview 01:41 Norman's Current Role and Responsibilities 02:20 Norman's Career Journey 07:00 Task Management vs. True Project Management 10:40 Introducing Critical Chain 15:41 Common Objections to Critical Chain 17:20 Changing the Rules to Improve Delivery 22:56 A Powerful Leadership Habit 25:54 Career Lessons and Critical Turning Points 31:32 How Norman Continues to Develop Himself 35:53 How to Connect with Norman 36:17 End of Interview 36:56 Andy Comments After the Interview 40:37 Outtakes Learn More You can learn more about Norman and his work at ProChain.com. Connect with Norman on LinkedIn here: LinkedIn.com/in/npatnode/ For more learning on this topic, check out: Episode 472 with Mark Reich. It's a discussion about lean, which is certainly not precisely the same as critical chain or theory of constraints. But Mark is similarly geeky about how to improve how we go about projects. I think you'll find episode 472 a great follow-up to today's discussion. Episode 328 with Terry Schmidt. Terry's passion is LogFrame, and though it's different from what we talked about today, Terry's geekiness for LogFrame could inspire you to think differently about projects. Episode 320 with Greg Githins. Greg wrote a book about thinking strategically. All I'll say is that if you and I could sit with these three guests and talk over coffee, we'd have quite an insightful and interesting chat! Pass the PMP Exam If you or someone you know is thinking about getting PMP certified, we've put together a helpful guide called The 5 Best Resources to Help You Pass the PMP Exam on Your First Try. We've helped thousands of people earn their certification, and we'd love to help you too. It's totally free, and it's a great way to get a head start. Just go to 5BestResources.PeopleAndProjectsPodcast.com to grab your copy. I'd love to help you get your PMP this year! Join Us for LEAD52 I know you want to be a more confident leader, that's why you listen to this podcast. LEAD52 is a global community of people like you who are committed to transforming their ability to lead and deliver. It's 52 weeks of leadership learning, delivered right to your inbox, taking less than 5 minutes a week. And it's all for free. Learn more and sign up at GetLEAD52.com. Thanks! Thank you for joining me for this episode of The People and Projects Podcast! Talent Triangle: Ways of Working Topics: Project Management, Critical Chain, Theory of Constraints, Prioritization, Focus, Multitasking, Systems Thinking, Leadership Development, Constraint Management, Risk Management, Strategic Execution, Continuous Improvement The following music was used for this episode: Music: Brooklyn Nights by Tim Kulig License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Music: Fashion Corporate by Frank Schroeter License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Send a textWe're gearing up for the launch of Season 5 on Wednesday, February 25. We have a new format that builds more strongly than ever on our REDEFINE℠ framework and centers people-centered change in organizational systems. Check out this trailer to discover what we have in store!Visit the ENGINEERING CHΔNGE® podcast website to learn more and to download a free copy of my new brief, Engineering for Society.Support the showENGINEERING CHΔNGE® is a registered trademark held by Dr. Yvette E. Pearson for producing and providing podcasts.

Alexander Fala is the kind of leader who has seen the best and worst of startup life up close, and learned how to keep moving anyway.In this episode of Startup Theatre, Troy Hammond sits down with Alex, former Vend CEO, Rhodes Scholar, ex McKinsey, and a trusted coach to CEOs across Aotearoa. They unpack what happens when the stakes get real: a capital raise nearly collapsing, lawsuits landing mid deal, revenue shocks that threaten liquidation, and the loneliness that comes with being the person ultimately accountable.Alex shares hard-earned lessons on board dynamics, making the “right decision not the easy one”, building talent density, sharpening strategy after product-market fit, and why writing is still one of the most underrated leadership tools. They also talk about purpose, identity, and how we tell a better story about tech so more Māori and Pacific talent can see themselves in it.If you're building, scaling, raising, or simply trying to lead with clarity under pressure, this one's for you.

Where are you able to identify opportunities to make new choices in the systems you live, work, and play within?  ...Today, Abbie and Christian talk trying out practical methods for system thinking, balancing simplicity and complexity, using the 5M structure (motivate, meet, map, make, manage), and inviting playful exploration of choices with groups. ...Christian Baron, PhD, is a freelance consultant, trainer, and systemic coach. As founder of zusammen-weiterdenken, he supports clients in creating sustainable value and navigating organizational transformation. With experience in research leadership and mid-sized industry, he applies systems thinking and systemic methods to make complex situations more workable. His practice focuses on clarity, collaboration, and long-term impact. He is the author of Methods for Systems Thinking: 65+ Practical Approaches for Exploring Systems, Perspectives, and Complexity. ...Stories Lived. Stories Told. is created, produced & hosted by Abbie VanMeter.Stories Lived. Stories Told. is an initiative of the CMM Institute for Personal and Social Evolution. ...Music for Stories Lived. Stories Told. is created by Rik Spann. ...CMM Institute SubstackCMM Institute Events Page…⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Explore all things Stories Lived. Stories Told. here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Explore all things CMM Institute here.

Most people assume metabolic breakdown is due to missing hormones, nutrients, or protocols. The truth? It's often a misunderstanding of how the body works.In this episode, Dr. Ritamarie explains why chronic metabolic issues aren't solved by fixing isolated markers, and why systems-level thinking is essential for healing. She introduces nutritional endocrinology and how the body adapts, communicates, and prioritizes survival through interconnected signals.If you've ever followed the right protocol, seen lab improvements, and still felt stuck, this episode reveals why and what to do about it.What's Inside This Episode?Why metabolic health unravels even when nothing appears “missing”The mistake that turns well-intended protocols into stalled progressHow the body actually communicates and why most approaches miss itThe consequences of chasing isolated lab numbers instead of patternsA different way to understand metabolism that explains inconsistencyWhy doing everything “right” can still lead to the wrong outcomeWhat changes when metabolic health is viewed as a system, not a set of partsResources and LinksDownload the full transcript hereDownload our Free Guide to Supporting a Healthy and Balanced Immune SystemJoin the Next-Level Health Practitioner Facebook group here for free resources and community supportVisit INEMethod.com for advanced health practitioner training and tools to elevate your clinical skills and grow your practice by getting life-changing results.Check out other podcast episodes here

Engineering hasn't become easier, writing code has just become faster. Time to stop fighting symptoms and start thinking in systems. In this Q&A, I break down the career advice I'd give to any engineer, from mastering architecture to knowing when to quit a high-paying job.In this episode, we cover:How "Systems Thinking" can be applied in practiceThe "Golden Handcuffs": Why high salaries keep engineers in toxic jobsHow to transition into leadership without waiting for a titleTimestamps00:00:00 - Intro 00:00:58 - How to innovate in stubborn legacy companies 00:04:49 - The "Golden Handcuffs": Money vs. Mental Health 00:07:27 - Stop solving symptoms: Systems Thinking explained 00:13:10 - Transitioning from Senior Engineer to Solutions Architect 00:15:08 - Communicating technical risks to non-technical bosses 00:17:48 - Proving leadership before you have the title 00:22:25 - My strategy for dealing with Imposter Syndrome 00:26:12 - Creating a "Zettelkasten" to retain technical knowledge 00:29:12 - The mindset that makes me stress-proof at work 00:33:10 - Learning to code with a product/design background 00:38:40 - Working with international remote teams 00:40:35 - Career Pivot: Software Engineering to Cyber Security 00:43:20 - Solopreneur opportunities in the "Education Gold Rush" 00:51:50 - Future Predictions: Vibe Coding vs. Vibe Engineering#SoftwareEngineering #CareerAdvice #SystemsThinking

In this episode, we explore everything from missing teaspoons and land acknowledgments to capital punishment and medieval economic thinking. We examine what everyday shortages reveal about prices and incentives, debate China's use of executions for online scams, and unpack why symbolic gestures like mandatory land acknowledgments often collapse under scrutiny. We're also joined by Andrew Heaton, host of The Political Orphanage podcast, to discuss zero-sum thinking, inequality versus poverty, and why so many economic intuitions still haven't escaped the Dark Ages. Along the way, we look at profit caps, price controls, and the persistent temptation to treat economics like theology rather than systems thinking. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:28 Land Acknowledgment 01:30 The Curious Case of the Disappearing Teaspoons 03:31 What Teaspoons Teach Us About Prices and Resources 06:04 China Executes Online Scammers 08:21 When Capital Punishment Expands Too Far 09:51 Foolishness of the Week: Mandatory Land Acknowledgments 13:13 Free Speech, Property Theory, and a Faculty Lawsuit 18:32 Andrew Heaton Joins the Show 21:12 Economics Thinking That Never Escaped the Dark Ages 24:42 Zero-Sum Thinking and the Origins of Envy 27:37 Why Humans Think in Proportions, Not Absolutes 29:53 Inequality vs. Poverty 34:59 Greed, Merchants, and Medieval Economics 37:20 Why Price Controls Never Work 41:08 Theology vs. Economics 42:43 Why Profit Caps Backfire 48:09 Supply and Demand Is Not Optional 51:48 Systems Thinking vs. Witch Hunts 55:01 Why Bad Incentives Create Bad Outcomes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today's special 4-year anniversary episode, Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo reflects on the evolution of the ReInvent Healthcare podcast and the critical need for systems thinking in healthcare.From the beginning, this podcast has aimed to challenge the status quo, helping practitioners and health-seekers break free from the limitations of reductionist medicine. Dr. Ritamarie explores why foundational knowledge alone is not enough and how nutritional endocrinology, a systems-based approach to metabolic health, is the key to real, sustainable change.What's Inside This Episode?Why “this for that” thinking sabotages even the best intentions in healthcareThe missing layer that explains why chronic and metabolic cases stay stuckThe lens that changes how food, hormones, and metabolism actually make sense togetherWhat today's healthcare model gets fundamentally wrong when the labs “look fine”The deeper purpose behind ReInvent Healthcare, and where this next chapter is headedResources and Links:Download the transcript hereGet the FREE Magic Questions and Health Detective SystemJoin the Next-Level Health Practitioner Facebook group Visit INEMethod.com for advanced practitioner tools and trainingCheck out other podcast episodes: ReInvent Healthcare

In this episode of the Grow A Small Business Podcast, host Troy Trewin interviews Sam Carpenter, founder and CEO of Centratel, shares how he built a $7M emergency call center business by focusing on systems instead of hustle. Sam opens up about working 80–100 hour weeks, hitting burnout, and the mindset shift that changed everything. He explains his "Work the System" philosophy and how documenting processes created freedom, profit, and scale. The conversation dives into pricing courage, delegation, and building a business that runs without you. A powerful lesson on achieving real success in business through clarity, structure, and smart leadership. Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Sam Carpenter, the hardest thing in growing a small business is enduring the long hours and mental pressure while trying to balance relationships and personal life. Early on, business consumes your mind 24/7, which can strain health, family, and focus. He explains that most owners feel overwhelmed because they see the business as chaos instead of separate systems. The real challenge is learning to step back, stop reacting emotionally, and work on the business mechanically. Once you shift that mindset, growth becomes manageable and sustainable. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Sam Carpenter's favorite business book — the one he says helped him the most — is "The E-Myth Revisited" by Michael E. Gerber. He often credits it with shifting his mindset from working in the business to working on the business by building systems. It deeply influenced his "Work the System" philosophy and helped him see how to structure processes so the business can run without burning out the founder. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? According to Sam Carpenter, he doesn't really rely on podcasts or fancy online learning platforms for growing a small business; instead, he believes the most powerful resource is reading books deeply and consistently. He prefers learning through focused reading and real-world application rather than consuming endless content. Sam emphasizes using simple, reliable tools like email and basic software, avoiding distractions, and developing long attention spans through reading, clear thinking, and systems-based learning rather than chasing trends or tools. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? One tool Sam Carpenter would recommend for growing a small business is a process documentation system — it doesn't have to be fancy, just something that gets you thinking in systems rather than chaos. Many business owners use tools like Notion, Evernote, or Google Docs to write down and organize standard operating procedures, workflows, and checklists. Sam's whole philosophy is about capturing how your business actually works so you can improve it, delegate it, and scale it. The power isn't in the software itself — it's in consistently writing, refining, and using your documented processes to free up time and create predictable results. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Sam Carpenter says that if he could advise himself on day one, he'd say: stop running the business emotionally and start running it mechanically. Instead of seeing the business as chaos, he'd focus on breaking it into separate systems, fixing the biggest problem first, and documenting everything early. He believes years of stress could have been avoided by working on the business instead of being trapped in it. The core lesson: face reality, build systems, and don't try to be the hero. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.   Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: A business isn't chaos — it's a collection of systems, and the moment you see that, everything changes — Sam Carpenter Freedom in business comes from documentation, delegation, and discipline — Sam Carpenter Stop trying to be the hero and start building a machine that works — Sam Carpenter    

Roger Urwin, Global Head of Investment Content at Willis Towers Watson, reflects on how leading asset owners are rethinking strategic asset allocation amid faster regime change, rising systemic risk, and growing complexity. In a conversation hosted by Mona Naqvi, Managing Director of Research, Advocacy, and Standards at CFA Institute, he draws on decades of experience advising global funds to explain why a total portfolio mindset is gaining traction—and how it reframes goals, governance, and investment decision-making. The discussion explores what it means to invest through a truly holistic lens, why mindset and organizational design matter as much as models, and how the investment profession may need to evolve for a more uncertain world. Listen to the episode to hear Roger Urwin's perspective on the shift from strategic asset allocation to a total portfolio approach.   Chapter Markers  00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:12 Roger Irwin's Career and Industry Background 04:02 Why Total Portfolio Approach Matters Now 04:58 Origins of Strategic Asset Allocation (SAA) 09:32 Benchmarks, Universality, and Communication Challenges 12:01 How TPA Addresses Complexity 14:47 Accessibility vs Flexibility: SAA vs TPA 16:13 Governance Trade-offs and Organizational Design 17:53 Systems Thinking and Market Disruption 19:16 Ecosystem Thinking, Reflexivity, and Risk Models 21:21 Recalibrating Investment Frameworks 22:56 Is TPA More Resilient Than SAA? 24:27 People, Incentives, and Cultural Barriers 28:49 AI, Human Intelligence, and the Future Analyst 30:46 Human + Artificial Intelligence in Investing 34:48 Managing Systemic Risk and Long-Term Horizons 40:57 Value Creation in a World of Real-Time Information 43:55 Stewardship, System-Level Investing, and Externalities 45:00 Can SAA and TPA Coexist? 47:29 Industry Momentum and What Comes Next 49:36 Closing Thoughts and Series Preview

On a cold January day in South Carolina, Jamie and Matt Staub unpack why focus is one of the most underrated leadership skills—especially in healthcare, where everything can feel urgent. They break down how leaders decide what deserves attention, how to “push pause” on non-emergencies, and why coaching people through problems is often more effective than absorbing them. The conversation also explores decision fatigue, the difference between being busy and being focused, the role of habits (including insights from Atomic Habits), and how boundaries protect the work that actually moves the mission forward. Along the way, they normalize attention struggles, reframe “failure” as part of growth, and offer practical ways to stay aligned to goals without losing empathy or accessibility.

Guiding Question:How might we empower our students by giving them freedom and agency to explore local issues that they are passionate about and utilize their public speaking skills to connect with local policy makers to raise awareness and inspire change?Key Takeaways:A different take on service learning and advocacy to raise awareness about important issues in our local community through public speaking.Modeling best practices in PBL by presenting work to an authentic audience.Using service learning as a vehicle to get to know more about our local community.How service learning experiences build essential skills and mindsets that shape students' next steps as they move on from high school by giving them real-world experience.   If you have enjoyed this podcast please take a moment to subscribe, and also we'd appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. The way the algorithm works, this helps our podcast reach more listeners. Thanks from IC for your support. Learn more about how Inspire Citizens co-designs customized student leadership and changemakers programsLearn more about the amazing service learning program at COJOWAConnect with more stories from the Inspire Citizens network in our vignettesMeasuring the IMPACT of Service Learning projects and initiatives Access free resources for global citizenship educationShare on social media using #EmpathytoImpactEpisode Summary On this episode, I meet Matilde, Dominique, Laura, Marianna, Sophia, & Miguel, an amazing group of seniors from Colegio Jorge Washington (COJOWA) in Cartagena, Colombia. These students were involved in a service learning project where they had the freedom and agency to choose a topic important to them that impacts their local community. This was an interdisciplinary project that was part of their Spanish language and sociales (Spanish social studies) classes that involved public speaking. Their job was to create a speech to inspire change in their community and to add a level of authenticity, the final speeches were delivered to influential members of their community, including the mayor and local media. These students were the finalists from their class selected to give their speech to these important policymakers, as well as fellow students and members of the school community, allowing them to reach a large audience and advocate for an issue that they care about. Hit play to learn more.Discover a transformative podcast on education and learning from a student perspective and student voice, exploring media, media literacy, and media production to inspire citizens in schools through a media lab focused on 21st-century learning, empathy to impact, Global citizenship, collaboration, systems thinking, service learning, PBL, CAS, MYP, PYP, DP, Service as Action, futures thinking, project-based learning, sustainability, well-being, harmony with nature, community engagement, experiential learning, and the role of teachers and teaching in fostering well-being and a better future.

In this episode, we speak with Master of Public Health students Bethel Abraham and Sona Fall about their study abroad course in Tanzania, which focused on low-cost strategies for waterborne diseases and waste management. We explore their journeys from pre-med backgrounds to public health—Sona's pivot occurred after realizing she could impact lives outside a clinic, while Bethel moved toward systemic change after witnessing the political and healthcare systems affecting children in emergency units. They share how their work with the Applied Global Public Health Initiative (AGPHI) led them to Dar es Salaam. Bethel and Sona detail their work alongside UNICEF and the Ministry of Health, describing an environment where health officials took time off their jobs to learn as equals with students. They discuss the "unlearning" required after their initial focus on malaria and cholera shifted; upon arriving at the Azimio Ward, they found their bus blocked by a massive puddle of standstill water and realized residents prioritized waste management over disease data. By using systems mapping to visualize community outcomes, they pivoted their interventions to address the lack of infrastructure. This episode is a lesson in grounding strategy in empathy and recognizing community members as the experts. To learn more about the NYU School of Global Public Health, and how our innovative programs are training the next generation of public health leaders, visit http://www.publichealth.nyu.edu.

In this episode of Longevity by Design, host Dr. Gil Blander sits down with Dr. Ronjon Nag, Adjunct Professor in Genetics at Stanford School of Medicine and President of the R42 Group, for a wide-ranging conversation on how artificial intelligence is reshaping health, medicine, and longevity science.Ronjon makes the case for systems thinking as a necessary framework for understanding aging, arguing that health emerges from complex interactions rather than isolated interventions. He explains how objective data—ranging from blood biomarkers to wearable-derived signals—can be integrated to guide better decisions, cut through conflicting health advice, and personalize interventions. The discussion also explores how AI is becoming a foundational tool, increasingly as ubiquitous as spreadsheets, enabling researchers, clinicians, and individuals to organize, connect, and interpret fragmented health data.The conversation then turns to AI's expanding role in drug discovery, personalized health insights, and ambitious efforts such as vaccines targeting aging biology. Along the way, Ronjon examines both the promise and the limitations of these approaches, emphasizing why interdisciplinary, data-driven methods—and clear thinking about causation, risk, and uncertainty—are essential for extending healthspan and improving long-term outcomes.Guest-at-a-Glance

Distance learning doesn't fail because of tools—it falters when leadership, policy, and systems don't align around student success. In this episode, Seth Fleischauer and Allyson Mitchell sit down with Dr. Alexandra Salas, founder and CEO of the Delmarva Digital Learning Association, to unpack what institutional readiness for digital learning actually requires.Drawing on her experience in higher education leadership, instructional design, and nonprofit systems change, Dr. Salas challenges the idea that digital learning is merely a delivery mode. Instead, she frames it as a connective infrastructure—one that can support access, belonging, wellness, and persistence when designed intentionally.The conversation moves beyond emergency remote learning to examine how organizations evaluate readiness, why frameworks matter, and what leaders must confront if digital learning is going to meaningfully support students rather than strain them.What This Episode ExploresWhy digital learning should be evaluated at the systems level—not course by courseThe difference between emergency remote teaching and sustainable digital learningHow leadership, governance, policy, and student support services shape online successWhy “online readiness” is about people and structures as much as platformsThe role of reflection frameworks (Quality Matters, OLC, ISTE, and others) in continuous improvementHow wellness, trauma-informed practices, and student belonging intersect with distance learningWhat teaching yoga online revealed about presence, connection, and learning in virtual spacesWhy distance learning is better understood as connected, accessible, future-ready learningGolden MomentDr. Salas shares an early career story from her time as an instructional designer—partnering with faculty to bring courses like anthropology, chemistry, and Arabic online before large-scale platforms made it commonplace. The moment highlights a recurring theme of the episode: trust, curiosity, and collaboration matter more than tools when innovation involves real change.Why Distance Learning?In Dr. Salas's words, distance learning isn't about distance at all. It's about access, inclusion, and possibility—especially for learners in rural or underserved communities. When aligned with strong leadership and intentional systems, digital learning becomes a bridge rather than a substitute.Mentioned Work & ResourcesDelmarva Digital Learning Association — https://delmarvadla.orgUnited States Distance Learning Association - https://usdla.org/Bestemming Yoga — https://www.bestemmingyoga.com/meet-ytNumbers and Sense by Alexandra SalasQuality Matters, OLC, Blackboard, and ISTE digital learning frameworks (referenced conceptually)Host LinksDiscover more virtual learning opportunities at CILC.org with hosts Tami Moehring and Allyson Mitchell.Seth Fleischauer's Banyan Global Learning combines live virtual field trips with international student collaborations for a unique K12 global learning experience. See https://banyangloballearning.com/global-learning-live/

Peacewarts: Universal Understars 101 - The Blue Marble (Class 2) We define and explore the Overview Effect—the cognitive shift that occurs when viewing Earth from space—and the historical impact of the Blue Marble photograph. We also examine the 1963 Hotline Agreement as a structural tool designed to maintain high-level clarity and prevent accidental global conflict. Homework: Interrupt your routine to look up the "Blue Marble" photo and look at it for sixty seconds, noticing the lack of borders. Write down one question you have after this episode or doing homework #1. If no question comes to mind, write: "no question." Optional: Journal about the idea of the atmosphere as a "thin coat of varnish." How does that change your feeling of safety? Learning topics: The Blue Marble (Apollo 17), The Overview Effect, Frank White, 1963 Hotline Agreement, Planetary Vulnerability, Systems Thinking. Resources & Links: Follow the podcast as we launch into the first semester of this new peace school. Join the Community / Get the Books: www.AvisKalfsbeek.com Podcast Music: Javier Peke Rodriguez “I am late, madame Curie” https://open.spotify.com/artist/3QuyqfXEKzrpUl6b12I3KW

Joe Morgan talks with Misha Muchhala about leadership, systems thinking, and making thoughtful decisions in complex technical environments. Misha shares her perspective on navigating ambiguity, understanding how systems interact, and approaching challenges with clarity and intention. They discuss how strong leaders think beyond individual problems, communicate effectively across teams, and balance technical depth with big-picture thinking. Misha's insights highlight the importance of judgment, curiosity, and continuous learning in long-term career growth. This episode offers valuable takeaways for professionals who want to lead more effectively, think more clearly, and navigate complexity with confidence. Connect with our guest: Misha Muchhala on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mishamuchhala/ Connect with Joe Morgan: Joe Morgan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemorgancfa/ Learn more: Visit Best Financial Life: https://bestfinlife.com/

At the 2025 Medical Innovation Olympics, a powerful all-star expert panel moderated by Melissa Norcross (Vice President, Corporate Strategy, Hyland Software) featuring Eddie Power (CEO, Empower Medical, former Global Medical Affairs Leader at Pfizer), Vivek Mukhatyar (Senior Director, Medical AI Team Lead, Pfizer), and Ravi Kiran Koppichetti (Senior Analyst, Manufacturing Technology, Vertex; former Lead IT Data Engineer, Novo Nordisk) cut through the hype and delivered a practical playbook for leaders in healthcare: 1) Fall in love with the problem, not the tool; 2) Think in systems, not silos; and 3) Train your people, not just your models.Timeline00:00 Highlight 1: Why AI Innovation Fails When the Problem Is Mis-framed01:20 Highlight 2: Probable vs Precise Decisions: Where AI Helps vs Where Governance Must Lead03:38 Highlight 3: Falling in Love with the Problem, Not the Solution04:38 Highlight 4: Non-Patient AI Use Cases: Process, Partnership & Proof06:00 Leadership in the Age of AI: Framing the Right Questions08:52 Systems Thinking in Healthcare Innovation (Hepatitis C Case Study)11:35 Constraints in Medical Affairs: Where Humans Must Stay in the Loop13:19 AI as “Intelligence on Tap” vs Clinical Decision Authority17:53 Defining Target Conditions and What “Done” Really Means20:15 Systems Failures in Real-World Healthcare Environments22:50 How Providers, Payers, and Pharma Are Using AI Today25:47 Who Decides: Human vs AI Agents in Regulated Healthcare27:18 Industry 4.0 Explained: Integrating OT and IT in Pharma Manufacturing30:33 Data Quality, Trust, and Why Most Organizational Data Is Unstructured32:03 Probabilistic AI vs Precision Decisions: A Leadership Framework34:35 Trust, Evaluations, and Human-in-the-Loop AI Design39:11 Why 95% of AI Pilots Fail — and the Role of AI Ambassadors43:08 Closing Reflections: Systems Thinking, Learning Loops, and Fearless Curiosity

Go to www.LearningLeader.com to learn more... This is brought to you by Insight Global. If you need to hire one person, hire a team of people, or transform your business through Talent or Technical Services, Insight Global's team of 30,000 people around the world has the hustle and grit to deliver. www.InsightGlobal.com/LearningLeader My Guest: Mike Deegan just led Denison University Baseball to their first College World Series appearance in program history. He's been named Coach of the Year in back-to-back years and is the all-time winningest coach in school history. In this conversation, Mike shares how he uses Mudita to build culture, how to help people get out of slumps, and why discipline and consistency are superpowers. Key Learnings (in Mike's words) Mudita is a vicarious joy. Can I be happy for another's success as if it's my own? To me, that is like the secret sauce of life. Obviously, in a sports team, not everyone can be the star. One of the biggest misconceptions is that the star rotates. Yeah, you need a superstar to compete at the highest levels, but to win, you're going to need pinch runners, you're going to need the guy laying a big block. It's going to take everyone. It's really celebrating everyone's contribution. In recruiting, I ask parents: Can you be happy for another kid's success as if it's your own? If your neighbor gets a new car, are you happy for them? Or do you say, "Oh, I wish. I bet his parents bought that for him." There are just different ways to show up for people, where you can just have joy. By pouring yourself into others, especially in sports, I think it frees you up to perform your best.  Envy is a natural feeling. I don't want anyone to feel that envy from me. I think what we're saying is that envy is a natural feeling. Wanting to do great yourself, those are very natural, and I want people to live in that space. But can we just stop it and be a little bit more intentional and just celebrate what other people are doing well? Spot the good first. As a consultant, there are two ways you can do things. One is to find the negative, and that's really easy to do. But I try to go and spot the good first. There's plenty of time to nitpick later on. Find some opportunities to help people grow.  People love to talk about themselves. My wife is very quiet, a great listener, and people love her. She has a million best friends, and no one knows it because she doesn't talk a whole lot. She just listens. If you can just listen and get people to talk about what they're passionate about, it's a life secret. You can tell when someone's really passionate about what they're doing, and you can tell when they're on the fence because they speed up when they talk, they get a little excited. Curiosity is a great way to show love. If you approach it from envy, we don't unpack the cool story. But if you lead with curiosity and not envy, it unpacks everything. I do think it takes a level of self-awareness and comfort in your own skin.  How to build self-awareness: Read, write, and get around wise people. If you read a decent amount, if you write (and that was my forcing function, to actually write and put thought to paper), and then get around wise people and just have conversations, I think you'll start building out the awareness of who you are and what you value.  A systems thinker builds frameworks that outlast individuals. It's someone who can build out frameworks that are built to put people and the organization in the best spot to win and be successful. It's a framework that outlasts individuals. Coaches may leave or players may leave, but if you have a system built out that it can sustain losing certain individuals, because things are cranking and you can repeat the work. You can do iterations and quickly test if you're getting closer or further from your goals. I almost try to talk people out of coming here. The most underrated thing in our recruiting is when they sit with me, I almost try to talk people out of coming here. I'll say, "Hey, what's the main driver?" If they say playing time, I'm like, "Hey, that's great. That's an awesome goal, but I wouldn't come here for that. We're going to play our best players. But that's not why you come to Denison. You come to be a part of something bigger than yourself, and there are all these other places where you're going to have a much better shot at that." I'm always listening in on what they value and trying to challenge it. Almost get people to self-select out. The better your culture is, you can take chances on people. It's like Randy Moss and the New England Patriots. Tom Brady was an alpha, and you could bring people in and take a risk and see if they can conform to the culture a little bit. When you have things in place, our locker room was phenomenal. People would say, "Hey, I don't know, this kid has some red flags." I'm like, "Red flags, like he's a serial killer? Or like red flag,s like he's super competitive?" The locker room would take care of a lot of that. If there's something built out that you feel pretty strongly about, I think you can take in some of these high-risk, high-reward people because they can't damage the culture like you would think they can. Early on in that tenure, I was very, very careful with this. But now we can take some chances on people if the DNA is right. The lack of seriousness pushed people out. When I took over, I'm the opposite of the guy I played for. And every time someone quit, I would just say thank you. And I meant that too because we were going in a certain direction. There was talent. It needed more seriousness. We had enough talent that it was going to allow us to compete at a conference level. I think it's amazing when you can just put boundaries and guardrails and point people in the right direction. We just provided a little structure, a little discipline. The DNA of great teams: Roles, sacrifice, discipline, leadership, joy. Everyone has a role and to beat objective expectations. When good meets good, you have got to understand that every role is essential to the cause. Status goes away. Second, we're in this together. There's no prima donna. I think that's what happens with championship teams. For us to compete on a national level, our guys do miss out on a lot. Grades may suffer. There are trade-offs with this thing. Then I hear discipline. Discipline and consistency is a superpower. The people that I see that really excel in the professional baseball world they seem to have a maturity about them at a much younger age. And that comes with discipline and consistency. Then leadership. There's going to be someone that's navigating the ship. In my beautiful world, it would be where that person's not an egomaniac. They're not in front. They're just waiting for everyone to get out. The last thing is joy. People tend to enjoy what they're doing. They do it with a smile on their face.  "Don't hire for when you think times are good. Hire for the person you wanna be around when times are bad because they're coming." An example of a great team outside of sports: The Chilean miners found roles quickly and stuck together. They had food for two days but rationed it out. They had a spiritual leader, medical guy, someone to keep them on task. Everyone had a specific role and they performed it. How you talk to your teammates is how you should talk to yourself. I had a conversation with a kid that I really admire on our team and I said, "Hey man, I never hear you talk to your teammates like you talk to yourself. Give yourself some grace." Being really hard on yourself can also be a cop out because there are ways to channel that. Sometimes people will say "I'm a perfectionist, or that's just who I am." Come on man. A perfectionist to me, they put an insane amount of work to earn the right to be. I think we use that term pretty lightly sometimes. Confidence is built through evidence. Ryan's self-talk before a keynote sounds like this, "What an opportunity to create some evidence."  How to help a hitter get out of a slump: Simplify and control the controllables. When a player's in a slump, they're probably working harder than they've ever worked in their life. But I think it's almost like they're working aimlessly. So what I try to do is simplify. I had a hitter once, he's trying everything.  I gave him one swing thought for two weeks. Just get the barrel to the ball. Don't worry about launch angle, don't worry about exit velo. Can you just put good wood on the ball? We're going to control what we can control. And slowly you start seeing some results and that evidence starts compounding and you get your mojo back. You gotta be intentional with your energy before high performance. As a coach, how you show up is going to be really, really important. I saw Texas A&M's coach say you have to be the opposite of what the moment requires. While everyone's excited, you need to be the calm. And then when the proverbial is hitting the fan, you have to be the one with optimism. Getting yourself in the right mental frame to handle high performance is required of a coach and a leader. Baseball teaches you to stay calm for three hours. You don't play baseball at 130 heartbeat. It's more of Can you get that thing down? And anything I do to increase it myself, I'm going against what it takes to be a successful player. People can think baseball is boring, but what you're seeing is people trying to stay calm for three hours.  Does that intensity actually lead to results? It's just basic stoicism. Baseball is the ultimate controlling what you can control and releasing what you can't. I don't know if this next ball's coming to me, but what do I do now? I can control my breathing. I control my first pitch prep step. What can you control? And I would challenge you to think, does that intensity or that emotion, does it actually lead to results or not? If it's helping you be the best version of yourself, go ahead and do it. But sometimes that overstimulation, that over emotion, it's probably just putting a lot of anxiety on your people. Just regulate, stay calm and execute. What does the team need from you right now? I think a good analogy is a cornerman in boxing. My dad used to always say, Watch a cornerman in boxing because some people you gotta smack. Some people say, "Come on champ. You're the best. You're the best. You're the best." When you're walking out there, you're trying to think, what does the team need from you right now? What message? If I'm a mirror, what do they need to see? Do they need to see calm, they need to see reassurance? Are we playing a little timid and scared? And maybe you're trying to jolt them a little bit with some energy and some choice words. There's an intentionality to it. You're trying to speak some stuff into existence, even if you're making stuff up. You acknowledge it, and then you also try to point them in a direction for improvement. Life throws haymakers at you all the time. I think that's the greatest gift that we can give people through sports. Most of us experience adversity along the way. It's this unique ability to just keep moving. You reflect, you try to get better. You give yourself some grace, you move on. You just keep working through that process. As simple as it may sound to us, I don't think many people can get there.  "Setbacks are temporary. I bounce back quickly." I write this down in my lineup card. You're creating evidence. It's something very simple, but I'm going to take a punch and I'll bounce back quickly. I think those are just good reminders in life. This happens. We're going to respond. Reflection Questions Mike practices Mudita by being genuinely happy for others' success without envy. Think of someone in your life who recently had a big win (promotion, new house, achievement). Were you genuinely happy for them, or did envy creep in? What would it look like to celebrate them more fully? He says "Don't hire for when you think times are good. Hire for the person you wanna be around when times are bad." Who on your current team would you want in the foxhole with you during a crisis, and what qualities make them that person? Mike asks himself before big moments: "What does the team need from me right now?" rather than just reacting emotionally. Think about a high-pressure situation coming up in your life. What will your team/family/colleagues need from you in that moment, and how can you prepare to show up that way? More Learning #217 - JJ Reddick: You've Never Arrived, You're Always Becoming #281 - George Raveling: Eight Decades of Wisdom #509 - Buzz Williams: The 9 Daily Disciplines Audio Timestamps: 02:11 Implementing Mudita in Teams 06:22 Curiosity and Spotting the Good 14:54 Recruiting and Hiring Philosophy 20:36 Building a Winning Culture 24:46 DNA of Great Teams 27:55 The Importance of Team Sacrifice 28:53 Leadership and Joy in Tough Times 29:42 Handling Adversity in Sports 31:06 The Role of Self-Talk in Performance 36:52 Staying Calm Under Pressure 42:26 Lessons from Sports for Life 46:12 The Value of Resilience and Bouncing Back 48:29 EOPC

“A recent study examined emotional intelligence scores from 28,000 adults across 166 countries and uncovered an alarming trend: global emotional intelligence has dropped nearly six per cent between 2019 and 2024.”- Read more here from The Conversation Guiding Question:How might taking a systems approach to social emotional learning and global citizenship education create opportunities to live your school mission, and shape the future of education?  Key Takeaw ays:We have standards and learning outcomes in other academic subjects, so why not in SEL?Resources, frameworks, and professional learning opportunities from ISCA.Next steps for your school to enhance SEL and GCED.If you have enjoyed this podcast please take a moment to subscribe, and also we'd appreciate it if you could leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. The way the algorithm works, this helps our podcast reach more listeners. Thanks from IC for your support. Connect with Kristine Mizzone and ISCADownload a free copy of the ISCA Student Standards Learn more about how Inspire Citizens co-designs customized student leadership and changemakers programsConnect with more stories from the Inspire Citizens network in our vignettesMeasuring the IMPACT of Service Learning projects and initiatives Access free resources for global citizenship educationShare on social media using #EmpathytoImpactEpisode Summary On this episode we do something just a little bit different. Our mission for our podcast is to feature students and give them a voice and a platform to share their work as global citizens and changemakers. On this episode, we have an adult guest on the podcast. Kristine Mizzone from ISCA joins me to unpack the intersection of social emotional learning (SEL) and global citizenship education (GCED), how schools need to take a systems approach to this, and why this work is essential for the future of education. Join us to learn how your school can take important next steps to support and empower the students in your care.Discover a transformative podcast on education and learning from a student perspective and student voice, exploring media, media literacy, and media production to inspire citizens in schools through a media lab focused on 21st-century learning, empathy to impact, Global citizenship, collaboration, systems thinking, service learning, PBL, CAS, MYP, PYP, DP, Service as Action, futures thinking, project-based learning, sustainability, well-being, harmony with nature, community engagement, experiential learning, and the role of teachers and teaching in fostering well-being and a better future.

As we continue our new year, we're once again gaining elevation and new, growing thinking. We're in conversation with Jim Tolstrup, Executive Director of the High Plains Environmental Center in Loveland, Colorado, where, by development design, they caringly cultivate Suburbitat. Suburbitat is a land ethic, a mindset, and a book that all hold a vision of a built environment where suburbia and native ecosystems exist side by side and intertwined. It is magical in all seasons! And, we can all take notes. Join us! Cultivating Place now has a donate button! We thank you for listening over the years, and we hope you'll continue to support Cultivating Place. We can't thank you enough for making it possible for this young program to grow and engage in even more conversations like these. The show is available as a podcast on SoundCloud and iTunes. To read more and for many more photos, please visit www.cultivatingplace.com.

In this episode of Managing with Mind and Heart, Nash Consulting CEO Ethan Nash explores the Systems Thinking model, which emphasizes that improving structures and processes is often more effective—and more sustainable—than trying to fix people. While some challenges may still require personal intervention from managers, tools like the "Five Why" technique show how a Systems Thinking approach helps leaders address conflict with clarity and purpose. Enroll in our Managing with Mind and Heart workshop series here! Use the code MINDANDHEARTPOD for a discount.  Text the word "LEADING" to 66866 to be added to Nash Consulting's monthly newsletter. Just practical management skills and tips. And just once a month. Pinky swear.

The future of human evolution will not be decided by genes alone, but by meaning, choice, and culture itself. In this Part 2 of our conversation, Dr. Liane Gabora (University of British Columbia) explores how ideas evolve through creativity, cooperation, and intentional change rather than blind copying. We examine why cultures fracture, recombine, and sometimes collapse. And how concepts behave more like dynamic systems than fixed beliefs. What emerges is a vision of human evolution driven by minds in relationship, where the next phase depends less on survival and more on how we choose to think.Part 1: https://youtu.be/8mnHM7lyfOEPATREON https://www.patreon.com/c/demystifysciPARADIGM DRIFThttps://demystifysci.com/paradigm-drift-showHOMEBREW MUSIC - Check out our new album!Hard Copies (Vinyl): FREE SHIPPING https://demystifysci-shop.fourthwall.com/products/vinyl-lp-secretary-of-nature-everything-is-so-good-hereStreaming:https://secretaryofnature.bandcamp.com/album/everything-is-so-good-here00:00 Go! Culture as an Evolutionary System00:04:07 Did Culture Create Bigger Brains?00:08:58 Cumulative vs Static Culture00:11:30 Memory, Mind, and Autocatalytic Worldviews00:14:16 Creativity and the Collective Unconscious00:18:38 Why Societies Need Creators and Imitators00:22:03 Creativity Requires Social Networks00:24:07 The Personal Balance of Creation and Absorption00:27:52 When to Preserve vs When to Innovate00:31:53 Why Meme Theory Falls Short00:34:00 What Evolution Actually Requires00:41:18 Cultural Inheritance Is Chosen00:43:12 Culture Evolves Through Acquired Traits00:44:05 Two Selves: Biological and Conceptual00:47:33 Cultural Collapse and Value Wars00:48:40 Culture Can Die Without Death00:50:55 Creativity Is Not Random Mutation00:54:08 The Danger of Ranking Cultures00:55:29 Cultural Identity Hardens Into Law00:57:37 Nothing in Culture Is Permanent01:00:50 Naming, Meaning, and Cultural Fracture01:03:32 Cooperation vs Competition in Human Evolution01:06:14 Creativity Begins When Biology Is Quiet01:08:03 The Co-Evolution of Biology and Culture01:11:25 Cultural Speciation and Cross-Pollination01:15:04 Cultural Time Runs Like Geology01:18:06 Sudden vs Gradual Cultural Shifts01:19:15 Concepts Behave Like Quantum Objects01:24:33 Concepts as Tools, Not Representations01:26:21 The Guppy Effect Explained01:27:40 Concept Entanglement and Meaning01:29:42 Modeling Thought With Quantum Math01:31:03 Shared Structure of Mind and Matter01:34:16 Why Mathematics Feels Spiritual01:35:14 Reflections and Future Work#humanorigins, #complexity, #emergence, #systemsThinking, #evolutionarytheory, #humanbehavior, #language, #culture, #futureofhumanity, #thought #physicspodcast, #philosophypodcast MERCH: Rock some DemystifySci gear : https://demystifysci-shop.fourthwall.com/AMAZON: Do your shopping through this link: https://amzn.to/3YyoT98DONATE: https://bit.ly/3wkPqaDSUBSTACK: https://substack.com/@UCqV4_7i9h1_V7hY48eZZSLw@demystifysci RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/2be66934/podcast/rssMAILING LIST: https://bit.ly/3v3kz2S SOCIAL: - Discord: https://discord.gg/MJzKT8CQub- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/DemystifySci- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DemystifySci/- Twitter: https://twitter.com/DemystifySciMUSIC: -Shilo Delay: https://g.co/kgs/oty671

This episode begins a four-part case study on Patagonia with a conversation on vision and values with Vincent Stanley, Patagonia's Director of Philosophy. Originally recorded in 2019, the discussion explores how Patagonia's founding experiences in climbing and environmental activism shaped its long-term purpose and moral orientation. View the show notes: https://go.lifteconomy.com/blog/patagonia-case-study-1-of-4-visionBecoming a B Corp is only the beginning.Our free B Corp Values Assessment helps you see where values are holding and where they're under pressure. lifteconomy.com/values

Many people find themselves in roles that look great on paper but feel misaligned or unfulfilling in reality. In this week's episode I'm joined by Angela Rixon, founder of The Centre for Meaningful Work and author of Meaning Over Purpose to explore what meaningful work really is, why so many of us lack it, and how both individuals and leaders can create more meaning at work day-to-day. Angela shares the five pillars of meaningful work—from autonomy to impact—and we dive into simple, practical steps you can take if you've fallen out of love with your role. We also look at the powerful role managers play in helping others find meaning, and how meaning can protect us from burnout when it's balanced in a healthy way. We talk about: • What meaning is and how it differs from purpose • The five pillars of meaningful work • Practical ways to create more meaning in your current role • How leaders can build meaning within their teams • Why meaning boosts engagement—and how it can sometimes lead to burnout • A powerful real-life example of how autonomy transformed performance This is Influence & Impact for Leaders, the podcast that helps leaders like you increase your impact and build a happy and high performing team. Each episode delivers focused, actionable insights you can implement immediately, to be better at your job without working harder. Work with Carla: 1:1 Leadership Coaching with Carla – get support to help you get your voice heard at work and develop your career. Book a discovery call About Angela Rixon Angela Rixon is an award-winning leadership strategist, executive coach, and culture-transformation specialist with over 25 years' experience spanning technology, professional services, and financial sectors. A former Partner at EY and Director at CGI and Mercer, she is recognised internationally for pioneering research and frameworks that close the Purpose-to-Meaning Gap™ enabling organisations to embed meaning into leadership, culture, and performance. As Founder and CEO of The Centre for Meaningful Work Ltd, Angela helps CEOs and executive teams design human-centred cultures that perform. Her Amazon-bestselling book Meaning Over Purpose: The CEO's Strategic Blueprint for Growth and Lasting Engagement (2025) combines behavioural science and applied positive psychology to redefine how leaders drive growth through meaning. Angela's work blends corporate rigour with psychological depth. An accredited executive coach (MSc, Distinction) and Fellow of the CIPD, she integrates Transactional Analysis, Adaptive Leadership, and Systems Thinking to help leaders achieve measurable business results while fostering inclusion, wellbeing, and authenticity. Clients describe her approach as “supportive, challenging, and transformative.” A regular keynote speaker on meaningful work, inclusion, and the future of leadership, Angela is the creator of the Lead with Meaning™, Own Your Meaning™, and Meaning Metrics™ frameworks. She lives in London with her partner Tony and believes that when work works for people, people work better, and organisations thrive. Email: angela@angelarixon.com Website: thecentreformeaningfulwork.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/angelarixon

In this final solo episode, Bradley breaks down a transformative conversation with a long-term client that reveals the difference between task-oriented thinking and systems thinking. Learn why the shift from "developing your team" to "creating a team development system" is the key to scaling past $2-3 million in revenue.Bradley shares a coaching session with a client who grew from $750K to nearly $2M in revenue (after taking 18 years to cross the first million, then doubling in just three years). The breakthrough? Moving from individual development goals to creating scalable systems.Join Us at the 2026 Above The Business Event SeriesWant to experience more transformational content like this? Join us for the 2026 Above The Business event series where we'll dive deep into the strategies, systems, and mindset shifts that help you move from Rainmaker to Architect.Get above the daily grind and design a business that can run and grow without you.Learn more at blueprintos.comThanks to our sponsors...Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we're just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we've got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.More money & more freedom: that's what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here's an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They'll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they'll waive all setup fees.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into one of the most overlooked areas of dance school growth: what happens next. From enquiries and follow-ups to exams, payments, uniforms and missed deadlines, this conversation explores how strong studios think in clear cause-and-effect systems rather than vague intentions.Using the simple but powerful idea of “if this happens, then this is what we do”, you will learn how to map your processes properly, identify the cracks where students fall through, and build systems that protect your time, your income, and your long-term student retention.This episode is especially valuable if you feel like your processes live mostly in your head, if you regularly lose track of enquiries, or if you know your studio could run more smoothly but are not sure where to start. We also talk honestly about automation, software, and when it makes sense to build systems yourself versus getting support.If you want fewer missed opportunities, clearer workflows for your team, and more lifelong students, this is an episode you will want to listen to more than once.Thank you for listening. This show is brought to you by Dance Business Lab. Book an evolution call with Deborah⁠⁠ https://calendly.com/dancebusinesslab/30-minuteevolutioncall?month=2024-04 Dance Business Labs founder Deborah Laws is a multi-passionate dancepreneur, dance business expert and number one best selling author of The Ultimate Dance Business Planner. Deborah's sole purpose is to help facilitate the personal journey and growth of dance business owners like you. Through Dance Business Lab membership and coaching programmes Deborah aims to empower you to learn more, implement new exciting strategies, create goals which Deborah will keep you accountable to and teach you leadership skills that will sky rocket your team and families to truly become your dream school. To find out more about Dance Business Lab and work with Deborah head to https://dancebusinesslab.com To find out more about working with Deborah through her exclusive Dance Business Lab membership programs follow the links below. Sparks membership - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dancebusinesslab.com/memberships/sparks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ignite membership - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dancebusinesslab.com/memberships/ignite⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Illuminate membership - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dancebusinesslab.com/memberships/illuminate⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠If you love the show and you would like to support then why not buy Deborah a coffee simply head to http://buymeacoffee.com/DeborahLThis podcast is produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Creative Content Studio

Natalia Curusi: From Spreadsheets to Discovery—Helping POs Make the Transition The Great Product Owner: Taking Ownership and Coaching the Team Forward Read the full Show Notes and search through the world's largest audio library on Agile and Scrum directly on the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast website: http://bit.ly/SMTP_ShowNotes.   "That person was not just a great product owner, but a great coach—he had excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, and he coached myself as a Scrum Master, showing me how product ownership should look like." - Natalia Curusi   Natalia worked with a Product Owner who embodied everything the role should be. He didn't come from a technical background, but he possessed exceptional domain knowledge, outstanding communication skills, and stakeholder management expertise you rarely find in one person. What made him truly remarkable was that he coached everyone around him, including Natalia as the Scrum Master.  He demonstrated full empowerment and ownership—making decisions himself rather than constantly escalating to higher management. When risks needed to be taken, he took them with courage and conviction. The team trusted him completely because he balanced business needs with team capacity, always understanding what they could realistically achieve. Over the past five years, this person has been promoted multiple times and now serves as a global director of product, still with the same company.  When Natalia thinks about what great product ownership looks like, she thinks of him—someone who combined technical understanding with coaching ability, took genuine ownership of outcomes, and empowered the team through clear vision and decisive leadership. These are exactly the skills that are hardest to find in the market, yet when you find them, the impact is transformative for the entire organization.   Self-reflection Question: Does your Product Owner take ownership and make decisions, or do they constantly escalate to higher management, preventing the team from moving forward with confidence? The Bad Product Owner: Assigned Without Training, Support, or Willingness "She was a great subject matter expert with deep domain knowledge, but the organization assigned her the product owner role without her willingness, without training, and while she was already 80% loaded with other responsibilities." - Natalia Curusi   Natalia encountered a Product Owner anti-pattern that reveals a systemic organizational failure. The person was an exceptional subject matter expert with incredible domain knowledge, but when the organization decided to adopt Agile, they assigned her the PO role like sticking a label on a box—no training, no consent, no preparation. She was already working at 80% capacity on other responsibilities and had no understanding of what product ownership meant. Frustrated and overwhelmed, she approached the role from a command-and-control mindset. At the project start, she brought a massive spreadsheet of requirements, expecting the team to implement them sequentially.  The team tried a different approach, wanting to understand problems before discussing solutions, but the PO surprised everyone by re-introducing the spreadsheet in a later meeting—a clear sign of misalignment and broken trust. Natalia, recognizing this was a battle she couldn't win without organizational support, chose to manage the relationship rather than create open conflict. She worked to mediate between the PO's spreadsheet approach and the team's need for discovery and iterative development. The real anti-pattern wasn't the individual—it was the organization assigning critical roles without providing training, time, or psychological safety. This situation illustrates why product ownership fails: not from bad people, but from bad systems that set people up to fail.   Self-reflection Question: When you see a struggling Product Owner, are you addressing the individual's behavior or the systemic conditions that set them up to fail in the first place?   [The Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast Recommends]

Natalia Curusi: Measuring What Matters Beyond Velocity and Story Points Read the full Show Notes and search through the world's largest audio library on Agile and Scrum directly on the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast website: http://bit.ly/SMTP_ShowNotes.   "We as Scrum Masters need to put a scope for ourselves—we need to aim to leave the place where we work a little bit better than it was, and to make sure that this place could improve itself without us." - Natalia Curusi   Natalia defines success for Scrum Masters with crystal clarity: leave the organization better than you found it, and ensure it can continue improving when you're gone. This means fostering independence and ownership in teams so they can perform whether you're on vacation, in another meeting, or have moved to coaching other teams.  The opposite pattern—where everything falls apart when the Scrum Master isn't present—reveals someone who hasn't truly succeeded in the role. Natalia also emphasizes the importance of establishing metrics early, but not the traditional ones.  Using velocity as a metric is an anti-pattern that focuses teams on the wrong outcomes. Instead, she recommends metrics like predictability, team morale, psychological safety measured through 360 feedback, and the quality of conversations both within teams and with stakeholders. But metrics alone don't tell the story.  Natalia champions the concept of Gemba walks—going to see what's actually happening, talking to people, observing the reality rather than just reviewing dashboard numbers. Some metrics are easily gamed, others provide only narrow perspectives on reality. The most important practice is using metrics to trigger reflection and adaptation, not as fixed targets. Natalia believes strongly that the quality of conversations—how teams discuss options, make decisions together, and adapt when facing pressure—reveals more about a Scrum Master's success than any velocity chart ever could. The ultimate question: can your team succeed without you?   Self-reflection Question: If you disappeared from your team tomorrow, would they continue improving, or would progress stop until someone replaced you? Featured Retrospective Format for the Week: Spotify Squad Health Check "This is a multidimensional retro that I run with teams every 2 to 3 months—you need around 30 minutes for it, and I often get insights and new ideas from this retrospective that help me as a Scrum Master." - Natalia Curusi   The Spotify Squad Health Check is Natalia's favorite retrospective format because it provides a comprehensive view of team health across multiple dimensions. Unlike traditional retrospectives that might focus on a single sprint or specific issue, this format examines the team's overall state across areas like teamwork, support, mission clarity, and technical quality. Teams rate themselves on various health indicators, creating a visual representation that reveals patterns over time.  What makes this particularly valuable is that it works whether you know the team well or are just starting with them—either way, you gain insights and "aha moments" about where the team truly stands. The multidimensional nature prevents teams from optimizing just one aspect while neglecting others, and the regular cadence (every 2-3 months) allows you to track trends and celebrate improvements.  For Natalia, this format consistently surfaces the hidden challenges that teams might not raise in regular retrospectives, making it an essential tool in her Scrum Master toolkit.   [The Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast Recommends]

In this episode of The Modern Facilities Management Podcast, Griffin Hamilton is joined by Micah Jacob, a Melbourne-based Facilities Manager with over a decade of global FM experience across Australia, Europe, and large multinational portfolios.Micah's journey into facilities management is anything but traditional. Originally trained in computer science, his career path took an unexpected turn—from a mailroom role to managing complex FM contracts across energy, banking, retail, and commercial real estate. Along the way, he's worked with some of the largest global FM providers, gaining a rare, cross-functional perspective on how facilities management has evolved over the last 12 years.Together, Griffin and Micah explore:How a technical and systems-thinking background can shape better FM decision-makingThe expanding role of facilities teams post-COVID, from operations to strategyWhy emotional intelligence and stakeholder psychology are now critical FM skillsGlobal differences in FM best practices across Australia, the U.S., Europe, and the Middle EastThe promise—and challenges—of IoT, data, and predictive maintenance in facilitiesWhy adaptability beats “cause and effect” thinking in complex FM environmentsMicah also shares insights into mentorship, continuous learning, and his upcoming book project focused on complex systems thinking—bridging human psychology, infrastructure, and long-term outcomes in facilities and beyond.Enjoy!

Natalia Curusi: Demonstrating Your Value When the Market Questions Agile Roles Read the full Show Notes and search through the world's largest audio library on Agile and Scrum directly on the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast website: http://bit.ly/SMTP_ShowNotes.   "My challenging topic is about the demand of agility in the market—how do we fit ourselves as scrum masters in that AI era? How can we demonstrate our competence and contribution when there's a perception that agile roles bring little value?" - Natalia Curusi   Natalia faces the challenge every Scrum Master in 2025 grapples with: how to demonstrate value in an era when business perceives agile roles as optional overhead. The market has contracted, companies are optimizing budgets, and Scrum Masters often appear first on the chopping block.  There's talk of "blended roles" where developers are expected to absorb Scrum Master responsibilities, and questions about how AI might replace the human facilitation work that coaches provide. But Natalia believes the answer lies in understanding something fundamental: the Scrum Master is a deeply situational and contextual role that adapts to what the team needs each day.  Some teams need help with communication spaces, others need work structure like Kanban boards, still others need translation between technical realities and stakeholder expectations. The challenge is that this situational nature makes it incredibly hard to explain to business leaders who think in fixed job descriptions and measurable outputs. Natalia's approach involves bringing metrics—not velocity, which focuses on the wrong things, but metrics around team independence, continuous improvement, and organizational capability. She suggests concepts like Gemba walks—going to see what's actually happening rather than relying only on numbers. The real question Natalia poses is this: the biggest value we can bring to an organization is to leave it better than we found it, but how do we make that visible and tangible to business stakeholders who need justification for our roles?   Self-reflection Question: If you had to demonstrate your value as a Scrum Master using only observable evidence from the past month, what would you show your leadership?   [The Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast Recommends]

Natalia Curusi: The Dark Side of High-Performing Dream Teams Read the full Show Notes and search through the world's largest audio library on Agile and Scrum directly on the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast website: http://bit.ly/SMTP_ShowNotes.   "I was proud of this team—I helped form them from the start, we traveled to the client together, they were mature and independent, they even jelled outside the workplace. This was my dream team." - Natalia Curusi   Natalia had built something special. The team was technically strong, emotionally connected, and highly productive. They socialized outside work, traveled together to client sites, and operated with remarkable independence. But when a new junior developer joined, everything started to unravel.  The existing team members were like heroes—fast, skilled, confident. The newcomer couldn't keep pace, and slowly Natalia noticed something disturbing: the team started making fun of the new member during retrospectives and stand-ups. The person became an outlier, a black swan ignored by the group. Natalia conducted one-on-one meetings with both the new member and the team, but the situation only worsened. The new person insisted they were fine and didn't need help. The team members claimed they were just joking around. Meanwhile, the team structure and morale deteriorated.  Natalia realized she was watching her dream team self-destruct through a form of bullying—something she hadn't even recognized at the time. Finally, she understood she couldn't handle this alone and escalated to the head of discipline and the organizational psychologist. Together, they decided to rotate the person to another team where they felt more comfortable. Natalia learned a painful lesson: as Scrum Masters, we don't need to solve everything ourselves, and sometimes the best solution is recognizing when to use the support structure around us rather than treating it as a personal failure.   In this episode, we refer to Coaching Agile Teams by Lyssa Adkins and Training from the Back of the Room by Sharon Bowman.   Self-reflection Question: When have you witnessed subtle forms of exclusion in your team, and did you recognize them early enough to intervene effectively? Featured Book of the Week: Coaching Agile Teams by Lyssa Adkins "This was the first book about agile coaching that I read, and it's how I understood that I was already playing the scrum master role without even knowing it—I understood that I was already acting like a glue for the team." - Natalia Curusi   Natalia discovered Coaching Agile Teams at a pivotal moment in her career. The book revealed something profound: if you're irreplaceable, there's a problem. A great Scrum Master or coach makes themselves obsolete by growing team members who can replace them. The team should be able to perform independently when you're on vacation or move to another assignment. Lyssa Adkins showed Natalia that she needed to let go of over-control and over-responsibility, focusing instead on growing the team's capabilities. The book remains one of Natalia's top recommendations for every junior Scrum Master wanting to embrace the role, alongside Training from the Back of the Room, which teaches facilitators how to run interactive workshops where people learn from each other rather than just listening to slides.   [The Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast Recommends]

Natalia Curusi: When Your Technical Expertise Becomes Your Biggest Scrum Master Weakness Read the full Show Notes and search through the world's largest audio library on Agile and Scrum directly on the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast website: http://bit.ly/SMTP_ShowNotes.   "I thought my technical background was my biggest strength, but I understood that this was my biggest weakness—I was coming into stand-ups saying 'I know how we need to fix that issue,' and I was a Scrum Master." - Natalia Curusi   Natalia stepped into her first blended role as team leader and Scrum Master full of confidence. With years of programming experience behind her, she believed she could guide her team through any technical challenge. But during morning stand-ups, she found herself suggesting solutions, directing technical approaches, and sharing her expertise freely. The team listened—after all, she was their former leader. They implemented her suggestions, but when those solutions failed, the team didn't have the thinking process to adapt them to their context.  Natalia realized she was preventing the team's learning and ownership by taking control away from them. The turning point came when she made a deliberate choice: she selected the most technical person on the team to become the technical authority and committed to never stepping on his feet again. From that moment forward, she focused purely on the Scrum Master role—asking questions, fostering collaboration, and shutting up to listen actively.  Years later, that technical lead followed her to another job, and they remain friends to this day. Natalia learned that her contribution wasn't about giving solutions—it was about keeping the team from losing ownership of their work.   Self-reflection Question: When you attend your team's daily stand-up, are you contributing to collaboration, or is your contribution keeping the team from owning their work?   [The Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast Recommends]

I heard from so many of you after my first conversation with today's guest that I asked him to come back and take our conversation to the next level.   Who is this mystery guest? Well, today, on Notable Leaders' Radio, I speak with Chad Lefevre, Founder and Ceo of The Most Important Conversations. He highlights how embracing your unique wiring as a creator can transform uncertainty into opportunity and inspire you to step into your own leadership and impact. In today's episode, we discuss: Discover Your Early Sparks. Ever wonder why some kids just don't stop asking "why?" Chad did that to the point of driving his mom nuts. So it was no surprise that, in Catholic school, the traditions and rituals drew him toward life's deeper mysteries. That kid-like curiosity? It's your clue to passions waiting to light up your path, no matter your age now.​   Own Your Unique Wiring. Notice where you think differently, ask endless questions, or spot connections others miss. Chad calls this your natural wiring, not a glitch, and says leaning into it turns "annoying" traits into your secret edge for fresh ideas. We've all got that inner wiring; the question is, are you plugging it in?   Master the Pause in Chaos. That urge to react when life hits hard? Chad's emotional sobriety trick, feel it, breathe, saved him from recycling stress loops. In our wild world of AI shake-ups and uncertainty, this space between trigger and response is your superpower for calm, smart moves.   Step Up in the Storm. With jobs shifting and change everywhere, do your best not to freeze like you are watching a car wreck. Chad challenges us: who will you become amid it all, a fighter, fleer, or creator, grabbing the opportunity? Link arms in community, trust your gut, and turn disruption into your breakthrough story.   RESOURCES: Complementary Resources: …https://www.inc.com/tracy-leigh-hazzard/building-fans-by-connecting-brands-to-brains.html  Guest Bio: Chad Lefevre is an international Design Thinker, business philosopher and strategist, author, speaker and psychonaught with twenty years of senior business experience, successfully designing business strategy, and leading cultural transformation and leadership development initiatives from start-ups to Fortune 100 companies.  Chad's work centers around Liberation, creativity, and being-centered human potential. He focuses on designing and delivering on what is possible when human beings are liberated, in alignment, empowered, and supported to overcome limiting perceptions and beliefs, to increase performance and deliver desired outcomes for themselves and the companies they work for.  Chad is Founder and CEO of The Most Important Conversations (TMIC) a ground-breaking weekly online transformation community, which some have referred to as "AA for healthy normals". Previously, he was Founder of NeuroBe Inc., a research and consulting firm focused on delivering profound performance inside of corporations by working with leaders in the areas of being, perception, and cognitive mastery. He was also co-Founder of Ncite Neuromedia, a neuroscience-based video game development company specializing in leadership development through what he referred to as "transformational gaming".  Chad has has architected transformative business strategies and solutions effecting the areas of business operations, leadership development, cultural transformation and team building, branding, PR and marketing communications (for which he was featured in INC.). His work has included serving such companies/brands as: Coca-Cola, TELUS, Sony Music Latin, Music World, SimWin (AI sports leagues), United Way, Shell, Hoffman, the Canfield Group, Bell, Richard Blanco: Poet Laureate to the Obama Administration; co-producing SANG (which featured leading thinkers including Tony Robbins, Jack Canfield, Peter Guber, Tony Hsieh, and Peter Diamandis, among hundreds of others); co-producing the Sundance Thought Leader Summit, participating in Larry King's Breakfast Club, among others. Chad is an avid student and researcher in the areas of neuropsychology, perception, and choice making. Other areas of research and expertise supporting his work include game theory, complexity theory, change management, and Systems Thinking.  Website/Social Links …  https://chadlefevre.com The Most Important Conversations @ https://tmicglobal.com https://tmicglobal.com  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadlefevre /   Belinda's Bio: Belinda is a sought-after Leadership Advisor, Coach, Consultant and Keynote speaker and a leading authority in guiding global executives, professionals and small business owners to become today's highly respected leaders. As the Founder of BelindaPruyne.com, Belinda works with such organizations as IBM, Booz Allen Hamilton, BBDO, The BAM Connection, Hilton, Leidos, Yale School of Medicine, Landis, and the Discovery Channel. Most recently, she redesigned two global internal advertising agencies for Cella, a leader in creative staffing and consulting. She is a founding C-suite and executive management coach for Chief, the fastest-growing executive women's network. Since 2020, Belinda has delivered more than 72 interviews with top-level executives and business leaders who share their inner journey to success; letting you know the truth of what it took to achieve their success in her Notable Leaders Radio podcast. She gained a wealth of expertise in the client services industry as Executive Vice President, Global Director of Creative Management at Grey Advertising, managing 500 people around the globe. With over 20+ years of leadership development experience, she brings industry-wide recognition to the executives and companies she works with. Whether a startup, turnaround, acquisition, or global corporation, executives and companies continue to turn to Pruyne for strategic and impactful solutions in a rapidly shifting economy and marketplace. Website: Belindapruyne.com Email Address: hello@belindapruyne.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/belindapruyne  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NotableLeadersNetwork.BelindaPruyne/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/belindapruyne?lang=en  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belindapruyne/

What if the secret to flourishing wasn't about doing more—but about realizing you already are enough?In this inspiring episode of the Flourishing Edge Podcast, host Ashish Kothari is joined by Jennifer Cohen, Founder and Director of Seven Stones Leadership Group, to explore how shifting from scarcity to sustainable abundance can transform your leadership, your relationships, and your life.Together, they uncover the seven timeless laws that help us move beyond fear, scarcity, and separation—toward joy, connection, and sufficiency.