Chain of Learning: Empowering Continuous Improvement Change Leaders (Katie Anderson)
Explorez tous les épisodes de Chain of Learning: Empowering Continuous Improvement Change Leaders
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| 24 Jan 2024 | 9 | 8 Essential Skills to Become a Transformational Change KATALYST | 00:39:49 | |
Move from Technical Expert to Influential Leader Do you want to move beyond being a tools or process improvement project “doer” or technical expert to a transformational change leader? Have you wanted to step into greater influence and impact in your organization? Or perhaps you're a leader seeking to create broader organizational change but don't quite know how? Leading transformational change to create a high-performing culture requires you to pair your technical expertise with social and relational skills that will enable you to catalyze change and accelerate the rate of learning in your organization. In this episode we’ll explore the importance of your role as a transformational change agent and how you can step into greater impact by growing your leadership skills with my framework – the KATALYST™ model. “Katalyst” is a mix of the words “catalyst” and "kata" – it is someone who accelerates the rate of learning for organizational progress. Hit play to discover how you can step into your impact as a transformational leader and bridge the gap between where you are today and becoming an influential change Katalyst ™ in your organization.
If you want to increase your influence and realize your vision of a thriving people-centered learning organization, you won’t want to miss this episode. Tune in now! Looking for more inspiration and actionable tips to step into your leadership impact? Be sure to subscribe and follow Chain of Learning so you never miss an episode.
2:05: The Change KATALYST™ model 3:12: Transition from a Practitioner to a Change Leader 6:28: The Inspiration of “kata” 7:11: The impact of implementing KATALYST™ model 9:38: K – Knowledgeable Business Expert 13:39: A – Analytical Systems Thinker 18:19: T – Tactical Strategic Aligner 22:11: A – Astute Political Navigator 25:03: L – Lifelong Learning Enthusiast 27:42: Y – Yes-Minded Persuader 31:29: S – Skillful Facilitator 34:48: T – Transformational Coaching Leader | |||
| 19 Mar 2025 | 39| Doing More Isn’t the Answer: Why Simple Wins [with Lisa Bodell] | 00:37:49 | |
Ever feel like your to-do list never ends? Running from meeting to meeting with no time to think—let alone lead or create? You’re not alone. The problem isn’t you – that you’re not working hard enough. You’re probably stuck in the complexity trap—buried in endless demands, inefficiencies, and busywork that keep you (and your team) from doing what truly matters. To help you simplify and focus on meaningful work, I sat down with Lisa Bodell, CEO of FutureThink and bestselling author of Why Simple Wins and Kill the Company.
💡 The problem isn’t the people—it’s the process of the work. In this episode, we dive into the biggest barriers to your effectiveness—what you can do to cut through the noise and create space for work that actually matters. If you’re ready to escape the complexity trap and start simplifying to make a real impact, this episode is a must-listen. YOU’LL LEARN:
ABOUT MY GUEST:
IMPORTANT LINKS:
TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:
03:51 The illusion of control and why organizing isn’t the same as simplifying 04:28 Why doing less can make you more valuable 11:36 Why meetings with no agenda can be a time waster | |||
| 29 May 2024 | 18 | Discover the Real Meaning of Kaizen | 00:25:09 | |
What do you think of when you hear the word “kaizen”? An event? A process that you are working on improving? Something else? The Japanese word “kaizen” is usually translated to mean “continuous improvement.” But there is a deeper meaning. It’s actually the lynchpin to creating a real culture of continuous improvement. In this episode, I unpack the essence of kaizen, not only as a method for process improvement but also as a personal and organizational mindset for pursuing excellence. Inspired by my recent keynote at the Shingo Institute conference and insights from studying Japanese and leading my Japan Study Trips, I explore how “kaizen” goes deeper than mere process improvement. It’s about cultivating an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute to change. You’ll also hear the connection between Devo’s song “Whip It” and the word “kaizen” – and how you can both “whip it bad” and “whip it good” when it comes to continuous improvement. YOU’LL LEARN:
Tune into this episode to discover how – “when a problem comes along” – you and your team can all “whip it” to solve problems at all levels and create an enduring culture of improvement. And I bet you’ll be singing this song for weeks!
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| 16 Apr 2025 | 41| Transactions to Transformations: Positioning for Greater Influence [with Betsy Jordyn] | 01:00:17 | |
You’re doing great work….yet you know you could have a greater influence. You have a vision for more. More strategic work. More influence. Only question—how do you get there? The issue isn’t your talent or skills. It’s how you are positioned—how your clients or organization see (and value) your role. In this episode, I’m joined by Betsy Jordyn—former Disney OD consultant turned brand positioning strategist—to help you reshape how others perceive your value and become the one leaders turn to when it comes to making significant changes to their leadership and culture. Besty shares actionable ways to communicate your value so you can land the roles and work you truly deserve. And we both share insights we've learned from evolving the framing of our own positioning over time. Whether you’re an internal change leader tired of being stuck in execution mode or a consultant struggling to land strategic engagements, this conversation is your road map to stop playing small. YOU’LL LEARN:
ABOUT MY GUEST: Betsy Jordyn is a Brand Positioning Strategist who helps consultants and coaches clarify their message, amplify their influence, and monetize their strengths. Drawing on her experience as a former Disney OD consultant and leader of an external practice serving brands like Wyndham and AAA, she empowers clients to make a bigger impact through authentic thought leadership.
TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 03:26 What positioning is and why it matters 06:48 Why your brand is your reputation 10:38 Betsy’s personal story in understanding the importance of positioning 18:28 How Betsy helped Katie improve her positioning 25:37 Changing the name from Japan Study Trip to Japan Leadership Experience 28:42 Clarity - the highest level of positioning 42:15 Third level of positioning in positioning yourself as a strategic partner 46:12 How to position yourself when working with a new client 54:07 The strategic framework to pivot your messaging | |||
| 01 May 2024 | 16 | Leveraging Analytical Systems Thinking to Drive Improvement [with Mark Graban] | 00:46:04 | |
Are you focusing on the right problems in your organization? More importantly, are you creating the conditions and processes to solve them effectively?
You’ll gain a better understanding of how to make informed decisions and drive improvement by applying the right kind of analytics instead of reacting to your metrics' ups and downs. Mark also shares ways to think more systemically about processes across your organization. We explore why fostering an experimental culture and responding kindly to mistakes is crucial for driving organizational innovation and improvement. If you’re looking to advance as a continuous improvement change leader who leads change and creates real improvement, this is an episode you’ll want to tune into now. YOU’LL LEARN:
You’ll also hear why Mark is thrilled to join Katie’s Japan Study Trip this November. This is a high-value opportunity to observe lean principles in action and understand the heart and soul behind creating a culture of continuous improvement. Submit your application today to join Mark, Toyota leader Isao Yoshino, and other global change leaders on Katie’s November program. Spaces are limited!
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| 21 Feb 2024 | 11 | Fulfill Your Transformational Leadership Potential [with Karen Martin] | 00:52:02 | |
Tune in to my conversation with master operational excellence change leader Karen Martin to find out! Becoming a transformational change leader means balancing your technical skills to deliver results while cultivating the influence, coaching, and facilitation skills to lead change and develop people to create a high-performing organizational culture. Whether you are an operational excellence professional or a leader that has a passion for continuous improvement, this episode will inspire you to excel in both the formal role that you were hired to do and the greater potential of the role that you want to lead transformational change. From learning how to more effectively navigate the complexities of business language to influence leaders, cultivating effective coaching and facilitation skills, and becoming aware of the limiting pitfalls that can hinder your impact – this episode is a must listen. About My Guest: Karen Martin is the President and Founder of TKMG Academy and Founder of TKMG, Inc., and is an award-winning author of several books, including "Clarity First" and "The Outstanding Organization". Her clients include Fortune 500 companies and government agencies from local to federal levels. With a master’s degree in education, Karen is a mentor at heart and committed to fostering growth and nurturing potential in others to achieve lasting results and lead organizational change. You’ll Learn:
Tune in now for actionable strategies and insights to equip you to step into your greater transformational leadership potential and position you to lead lasting impact in your organization. Important Links:
Are you enjoying the Chain of Learning podcast? Be sure to subscribe or follow – and to share this podcast with your friends and colleagues so we can all strengthen our Chain of Learning® – together. Timestamps: | |||
| 03 Apr 2024 | 14 | Becoming an Astute Political Navigator [with Betsy Jordyn] | 00:38:54 | |
What's your reaction when you hear the phrase “corporate politics”? Does it make you cringe and want to run away, or do you get curious about how to leverage them to influence outcomes? In this episode, Betsy Jordyn joins me to discuss the essential skill of how to successfully navigate organizational politics. As a long-time organizational development consultant for companies like Disney, Wyndham, and AAA, Betsy’s expertise on the subject is enlightening. Throughout our conversation, you’ll learn the difference between good politics and toxic environments and what’s at risk if leaders don’t prioritize a focus on astutely navigating those dynamics. Betsy also shares valuable details about some of the more complex organizational transformations she has led, and how she successfully maneuvered within those political landscapes. If you’re looking to gain influence and effectively leverage corporate politics so that you can lead change and step into your full leadership potential, then you won’t want to miss this episode.
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| 27 Sep 2023 | Chain of Learning Podcast Trailer | 00:01:35 | |
If you’re a leader who knows that people are at the center of exceptional organizational culture – and that a commitment to continuous learning is the way to create that culture – tune in now to Chain of Learning. Chain of Learning® is where the links of leadership and learning unite. Join your host, Katie Anderson, internationally recognized leadership consultant, award-winning author of “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn”, and fellow learning enthusiast, for a journey that will help you master the skills to lead your organization from a traditional culture of “doing” into a vibrant, high-performing organization of continuous learning. Chain of Learning® is the trusted source for purpose-driven leaders and continuous improvement, lean, and agile practitioners seeking positive inspiration, innovative ideas, proven best practices, and actionable strategies to lead transformational change. Tune into each episode to gain the knowledge and skills you need to build a thriving people-centered learning culture, achieve needed business results, and expand your impact, so that you – and your team – can leave a lasting legacy. Subscribe and follow Chain of Learning® today so you never miss an episode! Podcast website: ChainOfLearning.com | |||
| 27 Nov 2024 | 31 | How Reflection Fuels Growth: Celebrating One Year of Chain of Learning | 00:32:50 | |
It’s Chain of Learning’s first anniversary this month! And it’s the time of year for gratitude and thanks – and for reflection. Thank you for listening and for being part of this Chain of Learning that we are growing together. To mark this podcast milestone, I want to practice what I talk about on nearly every episode – reflection – as I believe it IS the foundation of learning and impact. In this episode, I share my reflections from the Chain of Learning’s first year and walk you through the process I use and teach for reflection – so you can apply this same reflection process to whatever you are working on, both professionally and personally. Whether you’re leading teams, fostering innovation, or driving continuous improvement – or simply looking to take the next step forward in your life – purposeful reflection is the foundation for your ultimate success. YOU’LL LEARN:
I invite you to embed reflection into your practice — not just as a one-time exercise but as a regular habit – that guides you toward excellence. Thanks for the opportunity to grow and strengthen our Chain of Learning together. Here’s to the journey of growth and another year of reflections ahead! IMPORTANT LINKS:
TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 2:37 The meaning of the Japanese word Hansei 5:28 Reflection Process 1: immediate self reflection after an event, even if you’re short on time 31:35 Share your process for reflection on LinkedIn or via email | |||
| 13 Dec 2023 | 6 | Inside the Lean Mindset: Behind-the-Scenes Leadership Insights | 00:25:27 | |
Quick question, have you ever wondered what it would be like to listen in to “hallway” conversations to discover what leaders say and reflect on with each other? If you're curious, you're in the right spot. In this episode, I take you behind-the-scenes with exclusive conversations I had with transformational change leaders and executives in attendance at GE’s The Lean Mindset. This exciting event, hosted by Larry Culp, Chairman and CEO of GE and GE Aerospace, brought together executives from some of the world’s top companies, professional athletes, and thought leaders all focused on pursuing excellence through continuous learning. Thanks to GE's generosity, I was invited to both share my knowledge and to collect knowledge, by bringing my microphone to glean insights from the leaders in attendance during the spaces between the mainstage events. I can’t wait to share them with you here!
What you’ll learn:
If you are trying to create a high-performing learning organization, you won’t want to miss these invaluable insights. Hit play now to be inspired about how you can embed a lean mindset in your organization and accelerate your impact as a change leader.
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| 11 Dec 2024 | 32| When Crisis Strikes, Hold on to Your Purpose [with Isaac Mitchell] | 00:51:19 | |
Is your organization stuck in a constant state of crisis, where everything feels like an urgent, must-fix-now situation? As a leader, cutting through that noise is key to prioritizing and aligning your team’s efforts to focus on what really matters.
Isaac shares how his leadership journey—from engineer at Toyota to executive in healthcare—shaped his approach to real crises. He discusses how understanding purpose—his own, his team’s, and the organization’s—helps him distinguish between what’s urgent and what’s truly important. By focusing on what matters, you can create the impact you’re striving for. To me, that’s what living with intention is—knowing your purpose and aligning your actions to make it happen. YOU’LL LEARN:
In our conversation about intention and goals, Isaac asks about my next big goal—listen for the big reveal, never shared publicly until now! I’d love to hear your thoughts. ABOUT MY GUEST: Isaac Mitchell is an experienced strategy deployment executive and is currently a Vice President at Ballad Health and a guest lecturer at the University of Tennessee’s Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. IMPORTANT LINKS:
TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 3:08 Navigating crises during Hurricane Helene through community and shared purpose 9:00 True crises vs. perceived urgency 10:58 Avoid falling into the "expert trap" during crises 16:19 How to use daruma dolls in goal setting 22:25 Using a hanko when coaching for problem solving 36:23 Setting big goals and using them to push for growth 41:34 Value of cultural and business learning Spaces still available for the May 2025 Japan Study Trip - apply now! | |||
| 29 Nov 2023 | 5 | Achieve More by Performing Less [with Eduardo Briceño] | 00:33:26 | |
Have you ever felt burned out and exhausted from the constant pressure to perform, to achieve, or to get it “right”? Or is your organization putting a lot of effort into improvement projects and strategic initiatives, but you are finding that you aren’t making much improvement and you are working on the same problems year after year? If so, you might be stuck in what growth mindset and learning organization expert Eduardo Briceño calls the “Performance Paradox”. This is the counterintuitive reality that a constant focus on performing actually leads to lower performance. The secret to high performance is not actually working harder, but learning better. You won’t want to miss this episode of Chain of Learning with Eduardo Briceño where we talk about his book “The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action” and how you can master the Learning Zone to achieve better performance. In this episode of Chain of Learning you will learn:
Tune in to discover the impact that overcoming the Performance Paradox – and mastering the Learning Zone – can have on you, your team, and your organization. About My Guest: Eduardo Briceño Eduardo Briceño is a global keynote speaker, facilitator, and bestselling author of “The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset Into Action.” He works with many of the world’s leading companies in developing cultures of learning and high performance. Eduardo co-founded Mindset Works – the pioneer in bringing growth mindset strategies into organizations – with Stanford Professor Carol Dweck (my guest on Chain of Learning Episode 3). His TED talks, “How to Get Better at Things You Care About” & “The Power of Belief” have been viewed over nine million times, and he has been featured in publications such as Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Fast Company. Important links
01:14: The secret to high performance 03:03: What is the performance paradox? 04:20: Connection between growth mindset and performance paradox 05:24: The impact of learning how to change 07:19: Discussion on performance and learning culture 13:04: Understanding the dangers of staying in chronic performance 17:22: Overcoming challenges of limited time for learning 19:58: Micro intention and reflection during learning 21:32: Leadership learning and challenges 26:56: Advice for leading change & building a learning culture 32:51: Upcoming chain of learning episodes | |||
| 13 Nov 2024 | 30 | Fostering Excellence Through Joy and Respect for People [with Stephanie Bursek] | 00:40:45 | |
Has your organization been making progress on its continuous improvement journey, only to find things starting to stall? Is your team hesitant to share ideas, or are your lean or process improvement initiatives viewed mainly as cost-cutting measures rather than a comprehensive strategy for long-term success?
In this episode, Stephanie Bursek, Director of Human Resources at TrippNT, shares how her company's made a leap forward in their lean transformation by leading with the heart to focus on people and joy.
Tune in to learn how embedding respect for people into your organization’s foundation can drive sustainable cultural transformation and elevate both business results and employee engagement. YOU’LL LEARN:
ABOUT MY GUEST: Stephanie is a seasoned Human Resources executive with a passion for how to create a thriving organizational culture. As the Director for Human Resources at TrippNT, a family-owned manufacturing company based in the U.S., she's focused on building a unique organizational culture by uniting the pillars of continuous improvement and respect for people. IMPORTANT LINKS:
TIMESTAMPS: 04:35 Stephanie’s realization of the missing element in her organization 08:10 The importance of a people-first approach to achieve results & improvements 12:11 The impact of the Collaborative Model for increasing productivity 14:15 The benefits of a psychologically safe environment that fosters respect & leads to better business results 19:03 The provocative quote from “Tree Ring Management” that always get jaw drops 20:27 How the leadership team at TrippNT models behavior that creates an engaging environment | |||
| 16 Oct 2024 | 28 | Leading Organizational Transformation the Right Way [with Cindy Hinds] | 00:33:55 | |
Do you ever feel stuck as a leader? It may seem like no matter how many problems you solve or tools you implement, you're still not seeing progress toward a sustainable organizational culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. Maybe you have been leading change the wrong way. In this episode, Cindy Hinds shares what she’s learned from 25 years of experience about how to lead organizational change the right way. She highlights what she has learned from her journey from being a technical expert to becoming a transformational change leader within a global organization who is equipping leaders at all levels to solve problems and innovating to drive business performance.
YOU’LL LEARN:
ABOUT MY GUEST: Cindy Hinds is the Global Director of Enterprise Excellence at A.O. Smith, manufacturing company with sites based across North America, Asia and Europe, where she is responsible for architecting A.O. Smith’s journey to create a culture of highly engaged people who are aligned in solving problems and innovating to continuously improve. IMPORTANT LINKS:
TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: [5:13] Leading the right way and asking questions for a continuous improvement culture [8:12] Finding gaps through Gemba to transform your approach as a leader [11:18] Franklin Covey’s Speed of Trust Curriculum to connect behaviors to business outcomes [18:30] Focusing on a people-centric culture to avoid conflicting values [21:16] Real-life examples of implementing sustainable practices for continuous improvement [24:31] The maturity model to understand your current condition and ideal state | |||
| 15 Nov 2023 | 4 | Leading for Impact: The Power of Being Over Doing | 00:28:53 | |
How can simple phrase can change your perspective on you as a person and as a leader? “Don’t focus on how to DO, but rather on how to BE.” In this episode, I explore this meaningful and powerful quote and the impact it has had on me. It reaffirmed what I know to be true about the essence of leadership and making impact personally and professionally. And it highlights what we often get wrong in our approach to leading organizational cultural transformation and how we try to get results. We focus more on the DOING than the BEING.
Tune in now to this episode of Chain of Learning podcast. It’ll help you identify your priorities and find new ways to lead your team from a renewed perspective. Learn how to be and the results will follow. Have you subscribed to Chain of Learning? Make sure you subscribe and follow so you don’t miss an episode. Important Links:
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| 07 Feb 2024 | 10 | Unleash Your Leadership Superpower [with Shawn Carner] | 00:49:20 | |
What if you had a new superpower that would unlock your leadership potential? One so simple yet will amplify your impact, open doors to the C-suite, and accelerate engagement across your organization so that you deliver more business results while realizing your vision for a people-focused learning culture? This episode unveils your superhero cape so you can unleash your leadership superpowers today to lead organizational change. Tune in to go beyond leadership theory to actual practice of how to pair your technical expertise with the power, influence, and relational skills to become a transformational change leader. My guest, Shawn Carner, describes how he moved from an operational excellence practitioner to a senior transformation leader at a global biotechnology company – and gives you real examples of how you can too. You’ll Learn:
Dive into this episode now to discover the transformative superpowers that will amplify your impact and drive success in your organization! Looking for more inspiration and actionable tips to step into your leadership impact? Be sure to subscribe and follow Chain of Learning so you never miss an episode. About my Guest: Shawn Carner, MBA, is the Director of Operational Excellence at Genentech, part of the Roche Group. An accomplished change agent with a proven ability to develop and implement business process transformations, lead people and deliver business results, Shawn has worked with Genentech since 2005. Shawn is also a talented visual communication expert, a certified ASQ Six Sigma Black Belt, and Master Scuba Instructor. Important Links:
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| 02 Apr 2025 | 40| Escape the Doer Trap: 3 Simple Shifts to Instantly Get Unstuck | 00:37:20 | |
Do you ever feel overwhelmed that you are responsible for doing too much?
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04:55 Mode 1: The Hero – Not everything needs your rescue 05:48 Mode 2: The Rescuer – Why you need to let others struggle 06:52 Mode 3: The Magician – Doing it all behind the scenes 09:53 3 simple shifts to break free from the trap 23:03 How to frame a clear contracting conversation | |||
| 01 Nov 2023 | 3 | A Growth Mindset is the Foundation of a Continuous Improvement Culture [with Carol Dweck] | 00:35:25 | |
What is a growth mindset? How is a growth mindset the critical foundation for an organizational culture of continuous improvement, operational excellence, and innovation? What is the connection between a growth mindset and a Lean mindset? Getting comfortable with the struggle inherent in learning something new is challenging. This can be especially true for more senior leaders and executives who have had success in their careers and might feel uncomfortable learning new skills while being out in front. If you are leading organizational change or used to being an expert in your field, it can be challenging for you too. You won't want to miss this episode, where I speak with Dr. Carol Dweck about how to develop a growth mindset – personally and in your organization – and her tips to overcome a fixed mindset organizational culture of “genius” where leaders are enforcers of rules rather than enablers of improvement and innovation. Tune in now to discover how to cultivate personal and organizational growth, learning, and innovation. In this episode of Chain of Learning you will learn:
Carol Dweck is a Professor of Psychology at Stanford University and is the bestselling author of “Mindset”, which has sold over 2 million copies globally. She is best known for her theories on the mindset, motivation, and why people succeed (or don’t) and how to foster success. Important Links:
Are you enjoying the Chain of Learning podcast? Be sure to subscribe or follow – and to share this podcast with your friends and colleagues so we can all strengthen our Chain of Learning® – together.
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| 19 Feb 2025 | 37| Lean Has Failed (or Has It?) [with James Womack] | 00:52:52 | |
“Lean has failed.” That’s the bold statement James Womack—founder of the Lean Enterprise Institute and MIT researcher whose team introduced the term “lean” to the world—made at a conference where we both recently spoke. That really stuck with me. Has lean really failed? If so, what can we do to course correct? To explore this, I invited him to share his reflections and experiences over the past 40 years—where his vision for lean management has fallen short, where it’s succeeded, and what we can learn for the future. In this episode, we take a hard look at lean’s evolution, from James’ original vision following the publication of “The Machine that Changed the World” nearly 4 decades ago to its real-world impact today. Tune in for powerful stories and insights from one of the founders of the lean movement, a chance to rethink what’s next for lean leadership, and how you can adjust your approach towards organizational transformation. YOU’LL LEARN:
Don't miss Part 2 of this conversation where we explore lean’s future, its relevance for today’s global lean community, and James’ advice for the next generation of leaders. ABOUT MY GUEST: James P. Womack, PhD, is the former research director of MIT’s International Motor Vehicle Program who led the team that coined the term “lean production” to describe the Toyota Production System. Along with Daniel Jones, he co-authored “The Machine That Changed the World”, “Lean Thinking”, and “Lean Solutions”. James is the founder of Lean Enterprise Institute where he continues to serve as a senior advisor. IMPORTANT LINKS:
TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 02:41 James’ vision of what lean’s impact would be today 07:25 Five interlocking pieces of lean transformation and what’s been missed 07:49 Misconception of Kaizen 14:27 Challenges in sustaining lean practices 19:00 Lean leadership if implemented the right way 21:58 Impact of offshoring and outsourcing 24:29 Barriers to senior management buy-in 26:42 Challenges in the frontline healthcare system 30:27 The importance of daily management and Kaizen 37:46 Contributions to GE Appliance’s success 39:28 The meaning of constancy of purpose 41:04 Importance of knowing your north star 41:55 The creation of Hoshin planning and why it fails the first year 43:54 How we get out of the short-term approach | |||
| 23 Dec 2024 | 33| Ask Me Anything: How the Right Questions Shape Your Leadership Impact | 00:37:34 | |
What questions are on your mind? That’s the question I posed to you last month when I asked you to “Ask me anything!”
Asking the right questions is a fundamental part of leading transformational change. It’s not just about finding answers—it’s about understanding why we ask our questions and how we react when others ask us. It’s just as important to know the reasons behind why we’re asking. What’s the intention behind the question? What are we hoping to learn or uncover? This is where true understanding happens—both for the person asking and the one being asked. So the next time someone asks you a question, take a moment to ask a follow-up question. You both might be surprised with the answer! Now, it’s time to dive into your questions! YOU’LL LEARN:
What additional questions are on your mind? Head over to ChainOfLearning.com/ASK and ask me your questions so we can continue to explore them in future episodes of Chain of Learning. IMPORTANT LINKS:
TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 2:04 The impact of leaders defaulting to immediately answering questions 4:28 QUESTION 1 : Moving from command and control to continuous improvement 09:06 QUESTION 2 overcoming obstacles to transformational change 16:14 QUESTION 3: How to balance short-term results with long-term goals while developing people 19:00 QUESTION 4: Insights on transitioning from a corporate leader to starting a consultancy business 30:35 QUESTION 5: How a continuous improvement team within an organization increase and demonstrate impact | |||
| 07 Aug 2024 | 23 | Create the Winning Link in Your Strategy [with Billy Ray Taylor] | 00:36:58 | |
What does “winning” mean to you as a leader? And what is your leadership role in creating a winning strategy and organizational culture? According to Billy Ray Taylor, CEO and President at LinkedXL and former Goodyear Tire executive, winning is not only about setting a clear strategy and aligning on the goals and metrics, but engaging your team members and defining the actions to get there. Billy and I recorded this episode back in 2022, just as his book “The Winning Link: A Proven Process to Define, Align, and Execute Strategy at Every Level” was about to be released – and I wanted to bring the conversation here for you to learn from Billy’s wisdom and insights about the humanity of leadership and how to win. In this conversation you’ll hear stories from Billy’s leadership at Goodyear, highlights from his book, the importance of DEI in building a winning culture, and Billy’s greatest challenge – and greatest learning – as a leader. Remember, the winning link in your organization is your people, and it’s the connection of links of people together that creates and grows our Chain of Learning.
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| 02 Oct 2024 | 27 | 3 Practices to Become a Skillful Facilitator | 00:27:30 | |
Ever felt like your meetings or workshops aren’t moving the needle? How would you like to facilitate your next work session with confidence and ensure that your leaders are leaving motivated, aligned, and action-oriented? Whether you're a continuous improvement practitioner, consultant, manager, or executive—facilitation is a crucial skill to master to become a transformational change leader. It’s the key to how you influence teams to shift behaviors, make impactful decisions, and drive meaningful results for the organization. But great facilitation doesn’t happen by accident. In this episode, we dive in behind the scenes to uncover the three key facilitation practices you must master to become a skillful facilitator, and some mistakes that you can avoid, so that you can ensure greater impact and make it easy for the team to get the results they need. Whether you're working with senior leaders or your own teams, becoming a skillful facilitator is key to becoming the go-to person for driving success. It’s not just a valuable skill—it’s the foundation for establishing your credibility and ensuring that your team is engaged, aligned, and empowered to make informed decisions that move the organization forward. YOU’LL LEARN:
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RELATED PODCAST EPISODES: TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: [3:40] Understand your role as a facilitator [13:06] Learn how to create structure with flexibility by making real-time decisions to adjust based on the group’s needs [18:01] Three ways to build reflection before, during, and after each session to ensure the impact of your session [22:09] How to reflect with key stakeholders and yourself to grow your skills as a facilitator | |||
| 22 Jan 2025 | 35| Stuck in the Middle? Embrace Both/And Thinking to Drive Results [with Wendy Smith] | 00:37:43 | |
What do you do when you’re stuck between two conflicting options?
For most of us, these competing choices are a source of conflict. We deal with uncertainty by asserting certainty that there are two distinct options to choose between. But what if there’s a way to embrace both? That’s why I invited Wendy Smith – award-winning psychologist and co-author of “Both/And Thinking” – to share her insights on how to make more creative, flexible, and impactful decisions in a world of competing demands. The most successful leaders and change agents have learned the power of navigating paradoxical tradeoffs and reframing problems to discover expansive solutions that didn’t initially seem possible. Tune in to learn how to shift from that “either/or” mindset and embrace a “both/and” approach to tackle tough decisions, unlock new possibilities, and lead with greater impact. YOU’LL LEARN:
ABOUT MY GUEST: Wendy Smith is the co-author of “Both/And Thinking: Embracing Creative Tensions to Solve Your Toughest Problems,” an award-winning psychologist and professor at the Lerner College of Business and Economics at the University of Delaware. She’s spent her career studying paradoxes in leadership and on a mission to help individuals and organizations turn problems into possibilities. Wendy's passion lies in helping leaders tackle the complex challenges of interpersonal dynamics, team performance, organizational change, and innovation to transform their organizations and the world. IMPORTANT LINKS:
TIMESTAMPS: 02:12 Misconception of both/and meaning 02:44 And/and vs. both/and 06:49 Balancing the roles of expert and coach 07:03 Balancing long-term innovation with immediate business needs 08:06 3-step process of dealing with dilemma 09:50 Expanding on and/and vs both/and 12:03 How to approach paradoxical choices 15:23 3 patterns of risk when you don’t shift to both/and thinking 20:15 Getting comfortable with discomfort 22:03 Embracing both/and mindset creates growth mindset 24:36 Bringing both/and thinking to your personal life 25:50 Both/and thinking at the organizational level 27:44 Integrating technical process improvement with people development 29:35 Enabling both/and thinking at the organizational level | |||
| 06 Mar 2024 | 12 | Beyond Appearances: Building Real Continuous Improvement [with Patrick Adams] | 00:48:20 | |
What is the difference between authentic cultures of continuous improvement versus superficial displays? In this episode, Patrick Adams shares his insights on the heart of organizational culture and transformational leadership and highlights the essential elements of a real culture of continuous improvement -- so that you can ensure that you and your organization get it right. The truth is, there are no quick fixes, “silver bullets,” or prescribed roadmaps to achieve a high-performing organization. Patrick shares how a long-term commitment and leadership behaviors are necessary to sustain cultures that foster growth, innovation, and people engagement. If you want to know how to create a real culture of continuous improvement, one where leaders embody the humility to roll up their sleeves, demonstrate respect for their people and customers, and connect everyone to a long-term vision built on purpose, this episode is for you. ABOUT MY GUEST: Patrick Adams the founder of Lean Solutions and is the best-selling author of "Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap". He's a sought-after leadership coach, consultant, and professional speaker. Patrick’s insights, drawn from extensive experience working with companies of diverse industries and sizes, are driven by a philosophy of constant learning and leadership commitment—essential for building organizational excellence. YOU’LL LEARN:
Tune in now for insights and strategies to empower you with knowledge of how to lead your company toward a real, lasting culture of continuous improvement. IMPORTANT LINKS:
Are you enjoying the Chain of Learning podcast? Be sure to subscribe or follow – and to share this podcast with your friends and colleagues so we can all strengthen our Chain of Learning® – together. TIMESTAMPS:
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| 18 Sep 2024 | 26 | Harness the Power of Storytelling in Leadership [with Carol Cox] | 00:37:42 | |
Want to inspire action in your presentations and transform your message from boring to unforgettable? The secret: it’s not data and facts that create impact — it's your stories. As humans, we’re wired to remember and respond to stories because they connect with our emotions and drive our decisions. Storytelling is more than just a trending term; it’s the fundamental way to connect with your audience on a deeper level and how you actually ignite change. In this episode, Carol Cox and I explore how to harness storytelling to not just share information, but to truly resonate. Regardless if you’re a keynote speaker presenting to a large audience or a leader speaking to your team, discover frameworks and insights on how you can turn simple anecdotes into powerful narratives that captivate, motivate, and inspire. YOU’LL LEARN:
If you are a change leader looking to do more than just share information and genuinely drive action, you won’t want to miss this episode. ABOUT MY GUEST: Carol Cox is the founder and CEO of Speaking Your Brand®, a coaching and training company that works with purpose–driven professionals to enhance their thought leadership so they can tell the stories that need to be told and activate ideas for change. IMPORTANT LINKS:
TIMESTAMPS: 00:44 The importance of storytelling in making a lasting impact for both business and individual leaders 10:55 The difference between sharing an anecdote and creating an emotionally compelling story 12:38 IDEAL framework to enhance your storytelling and applying it effectively in various settings 35:58 Practical tips to make your presentations more engaging and memorable | |||
| 10 Jul 2024 | 21 | Leading to Learn Part 1: Build A Chain of Learning [with Isao Yoshino] | 00:38:31 | |
Today's guest, Isao Yoshino, a 40-year Toyota leader, has influenced thousands of leaders worldwide and inspired my book, "Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn."
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| 27 Dec 2023 | 7 | Intentions vs. Goals: Start with Purpose for Greater Impact | 00:32:24 | |
What if HOW you go about setting your goals can change the impact you have – even more than the goals themselves? It’s that time of year for setting goals, to reflect on what you achieved – or didn’t achieve – in the past year and make resolutions and big goals for the coming year. Yet most of us have it backwards when we go about setting goals. We start with our minds before we connect with our hearts. In this episode of Chain of Learning, you’ll discover what’s missing for most people in our goal-setting culture. If you really want to create a meaningful impact and be more likely to achieve your goals, you need to start first with your intentions. Tune into this episode to learn how to make a shift in your thinking – and your goal-setting process – that will leave you more connected with purpose, fulfilled, and equipped to achieve your goals. You’ll understand how to connect who you want to be so that you are set up for what you want to achieve. In this episode you’ll learn:
Hit play now – and be sure to grab a pen and paper to capture your reflections – to make plans on how you will take aligned action that will propel you towards the impact that you want in the coming year!
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| 17 Apr 2024 | 15 | 5 Steps to Revitalize Lifelong Learning | 00:28:27 | |
I believe when we stay in learning – a learning attitude, mindset, and practice – anything is possible.
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| 01 Nov 2023 | 1 | Welcome to Chain of Learning | 00:08:54 | |
The pressure to get results and outcomes, to deliver value for customers, and to stay ahead of the competition remains paramount for organizations to survive into the future. But what if the way to not just survive – but also to thrive – is not through a singular focus on the outcomes themselves, but rather the learning process to get there? If you’re a leader who believes that people are at the center of exceptional organizational culture – and that a commitment to continuous learning is the way to create that culture – where everyone is capable, confident and empowered to solve problems and innovate at all levels – this podcast is for you! Welcome to Chain of Learning! Your Leadership Connection to Create a Culture of Continuous Improvement This is your trusted resource for actionable strategies and practices to empower you to build a people-centered learning culture, get results and expand your impact, so that you AND your team, can leave a lasting legacy. This new podcast is hosted by me, Katie Anderson. I’m an internationally recognized leadership consultant, keynote speaker, author of the award-winning book Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn – and learning enthusiast. If you are like me, you believe in learning and continuous improvement. You know the impact this can have on people, teams, and organizations. You have a passion for solving important problems, improving processes, and achieving goals. You thrive on the challenge of figuring out how to make something better. And you love learning and improving. But more importantly, you too are inspired by creating connections between people and ideas, and what it means to help others learn, grow, and achieve more than they thought was possible. This is what you can expect from Chain of Learning:
Chain of Learning® is one of my core principles. We are all leaders and learners – connected together by the bond between us. There is no strength in isolated links. We learn and improve better – together – and it’s why I started this podcast. A Chain of Learning is a metaphor for what a successful people-centered learning organization is all about – the connection and support between people to learn through success and failure alike, grow, and achieve more than they could have on their own. This is the power of our Chain of Learning. At my core, I believe: When we stay in learning, anything is possible. In this introductory episode, I explore this and more. I invite you to hit play. Be sure to subscribe or follow and share it with your friends and colleagues so we can all strengthen our Chain of Learning® – together.
00:00: Introduction to this podcast Chain of Learning | |||
| 24 Jul 2024 | 22 | Leading to Learn Part 2: The Power of Reflection [with Isao Yoshino] | 00:55:39 | |
Have you ever paused to reflect on the critical moments of your life and realized their impact on your own trajectory and others' lives? In this special episode of Chain of Learning, I welcome back Isao Yoshino as we celebrate our decade-long partnership and the anniversary of our book "Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn." Together, we discuss the power of hansei—reflection—as the cornerstone of learning and wisdom. We reflect on the journey of writing the book, the strength of our partnership, and the importance of asking the right questions. Mr. Yoshino shares how he continues to learn and grow from the book's lessons while uncovering the profound impact of reflection on his personal and professional development. Join us as we explore practical ways to develop the habit of reflection, empowering you to gain new perspectives and insights. Because remember, reflection is the crucial link in your chain of learning, guiding you toward continuous improvement and deeper wisdom.
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| 20 Mar 2024 | 13 | 3 Ways to Break the Telling Habit® and Create Greater Impact | 00:33:28 | |
Have you ever had a team member look at you with frustration when you share your great ideas and suggestions with them? Or, have you ever felt like—with all the things you need to solve and do—you don’t have time to ask questions? Like you’re stuck putting out fires rather than nurturing, growing, and developing the people you lead?
But, the good news is, you can break it—or rather—you can work at creating better habits. Because you can never actually break a habit. You just replace it with stronger ones. In this episode, you’ll learn what the “telling habit” is and what you can do to not only recognize it but how you can make three simple shifts that will dramatically increase your effectiveness. Throughout my life and career, I’ve struggled with a “telling habit”—though at times I didn’t even realize how strong it was or the negative impact it had. Breaking the Telling Habit is THE most powerful shift you can make as a leader, coach, or human being. If you’re ready to transform into a leader who can navigate the continuums between asking and telling, advocating and inquiring, being an expert and coach, this is one episode you don’t want to miss.
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| 08 Jan 2025 | 34| Why Change Initiatives Fail (And What You Can Do) [with Michael Bungay Stanier] | 00:37:36 | |
Why do 70-90% of change initiatives fail? That’s a staggering statistic. In many cases, new leadership comes in, economic pressures rise, or the next "flavor of the month" initiative takes over. What’s happening and what can you do to counteract this trend? And if you are a change leader, lean practitioner, or continuous improvement coach, how do you avoid this becoming a career limiting move?
Success in leading change comes not only from making structural shifts, but also from fostering curiosity and building strong human relationships. It’s time to shift the failure rate to a success rate for your vision.
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ABOUT MY GUEST: Michael Bungay Stanier is at the forefront of shaping how organizations and leaders around the world succeed through focusing on curiosity and human relationships. He’s the author of six books, which between them have sold more than a million copies, and is best known for The Coaching Habit, the best-selling coaching book of this century. IMPORTANT LINKS:
TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 01:04 Reasons why change initiatives fail 07:38 The link between process improvement and integrating the people component 13:23 Two strategies to stay curious longer and create lasting impact 16:26 Tips to reverse the trend of failed change initiatives 20:20 Steps to embrace your influence and create the impact you want when leading change 22:31 Defining A and B list relationships 24:04 Improving the quality of working relationships 24:45 How to build BPR (best possible relationships) and keystone conversations to discuss how to best work together before diving into the work 26:13 Addressing challenging conversations to clarify roles and expectations upfront 29:55 One way to increase influence and build human connection for impactful conversations 31:11 Michael’s new project in launching a new podcast | |||
| 30 Oct 2024 | 29 | Accelerate Decision-Making: Innovate through the Unknown [with Atif Rafiq] | 00:38:10 | |
Do you ever feel like you're stuck between chaos and bureaucracy, unable to break free from the status quo? You are probably facing a common challenge that other leaders and change practitioners experience: how to navigate uncertainty while trying to drive innovation and agility in your organization. In this episode, Atif Rafiq, seasoned C-suite executive and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of “Decision Sprint” shares what he’s learned about leading through ambiguity to drive digital and cultural transformations at global companies like Amazon, McDonald’s, and MGM Resorts. Atif breaks down the Decision Sprint framework to help you bring clarity into the unknown by moving problem-solving upstream, enabling you and your teams to make faster, smarter decisions that drive meaningful change and innovation. Uncertainty IS what most organizations are facing today. Relying on outdated leadership models and approaches to problem-solving keeps you trapped facing the same issues year after year without real progress. Tune into this episode and gain insights how you can break free from this cycle and embrace new approaches to navigate ambiguity and empower you to innovate and lead by making decisions faster, smarter, and better.
Enter for chance to win a signed copy of "Decision Sprint". Register by November 8th: ChainOfLearning.com/29 or https://kbjanderson.com/giveaways/decision-sprint/ ABOUT MY GUEST: Atif Rafiq has reshaped industries and generated billions in revenue for some of the world's leading companies including McDonald’s, Volvo, MGM Resorts, Amazon, Yahoo!, and AOL. He's the CEO of Ritual and the Wall Street bestselling author of "Decision Sprint: The new way to Innovate into the Unknown and move from Strategy into Action." IMPORTANT LINKS:
TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: [2:24] Atif’s massive career shift and the challenge of changing the culture of a large established organization [7:52] Boring problems versus creative problems and an example of the importance of taking interest in a “boring” problem | |||
| 05 Mar 2025 | 38| What’s the Future of Lean? [with James Womack] | 00:30:44 | |
What have we really learned after four decades of lean? Is lean thinking still relevant today? And importantly — what needs to change to ensure its future success? In the previous episode, I sat down with James Womack, founder of the Lean Enterprise Institute, to look back on 40 years of lean thinking and management since the publication of The Machine That Changed the World. In this episode, we look ahead to the future of lean and dig into big questions, including those submitted by listeners:
Jim doesn’t hold back in this discussion — and provides his advice as he passes the baton to the next generation of lean leaders. YOU’LL LEARN:
If you are passionate about the potential of lean’s impact now and in the future, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. ABOUT MY GUEST:
TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 01:48 Two things Jim would do differently in introducing lean 03:92 Why consultant-driven Kaizen falls short 05:29 The origin of the word “lean” 08:29 The alternative label instead of the term "lean" 19:10 Changes at Toyota’s Operations Management Development Division | |||
| 01 Nov 2023 | 2 | Leading with the Heart to Create a Culture of Continuous Learning [with Jamie Parker] | 00:23:29 | |
What does it really take to create a thriving organization – one that is not just focused on delivering results, but doing so by engaging people’s minds AND hearts to collaborate, innovate, and solve problems as the way to get to those results? If you’re trying to create a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement, what’s love got to do with it? As Jamie Parker and I explore on this episode of Chain of Learning – a lot! Love, empathy, and human connection is our focus – and you just might walk away singing a little Tina Turner too. Learn how you can leverage human connection, empathy, and – yes – love – to more effectively lead, coach, and create a high performing organization. You won't want to miss an episode to discover the impact fostering a growth mindset and developing human connection has on delivering the results you need.
Tune in now to discover how you can bring more love, empathy, and human connection into your leadership approach to engage your people, get better results, and build a culture of continuous learning.
Jamie Parker is the trusted partner for operational leaders and manufacturing executives seeking to create a high-performance culture and transformational growth, and has been a friend of mine since we met a half-decade ago. This conversation is the second half of a two-part conversation that she and I had about GE’s recent event, The Lean Mindset: The Pursuit of Progress. You can catch the first part on Jamie’s podcast “Lean Leadership for Ops Managers”. Jamie’s Website: Process + Results: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamievparker/ Important Links:
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| 26 Jun 2024 | 20 | How to Coach Executives and Influence Change [with Brad Toussaint] | 00:43:42 | |
Have you ever received blank stares from leaders when you’ve advocated that they adopt an improvement method or tool you know will help them? Perhaps the problem is not your idea but rather that you aren’t communicating in a way that connects these concepts with the business outcomes they need or in language that they understand. One hurdle that can hinder your effectiveness in influencing executives is the very thing that makes you valuable in your position and as a passionate continuous improvement leader – your technical expertise and problem-solving ability. That’s why, in this episode, Brad Toussaint and I explore the importance of communicating in ways that resonate with senior leaders about the outcomes and business results they need. We then discussed how to coach leaders to develop the behaviors, practices, and systems that will lead to those results. We also discuss the critical shift you need to make from being the doer of improvements to becoming a coach to executives to enable them to be serious about what it takes to lead change and their essential role in setting direction and creating the conditions for people to be successful. Being an effective change leader and coach isn’t just about having technical know-how—it’s about explaining all the methods, tools, and behaviors in a way that business leaders and executives can understand and then apply.
Tune in now to learn more about leadership, change management, and the importance of speaking in a language that resonates to align, influence, and coach leaders – so that you can propel sustainable change and get needed results.
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| 12 Jun 2024 | 19 | Master the Art of Persuasion to Get Buy-in [with Derek Roberts] | 00:48:59 | |
Do you e𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗵𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘀 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝘆-𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲 — 𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁? Or have you ever struggled with getting your senior team on board with your vision for change, getting support for a new initiative, or getting leaders to sign on to your services as a coach or consultant? Good news — mastering the skills of persuasion and influence by leading with curiosity and human connection is the way to get to "yes". Whether it is a #lean or #agile transformation, #continuousimprovement project, #operationalexcellence program, or selling a product or service, your success hinges on your ability to connect with people and understand how to bring them along with you.
In this episode, Derek Roberts and I explore the art and science of persuasion of how to get to "yes" and authentic buy-in in the context of leadership. Mastering the power of persuasion — of selling people on your idea, the change initiative you are leading, or your services — to help others adopt new ways of thinking and working is essential to your success, career growth, and impact. Derek's expertise highlights how to navigate these interactions effectively, ensuring you're heard, understood, and able to inspire action. We discuss concepts in his new book, “Listen to Sell: How Your Mindset, Skillset, and Human Connections Unlock Sales Performance,” and the essential skills of selling ideas and gaining buy-in, which are crucial for any executive or continuous improvement leader.
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| 05 Feb 2025 | 36| What's Your Purpose? Weaving Warp and Weft with Intention | 00:22:06 | |
How often do you pause to get a clearer view of your purpose and learn how your life experiences influence your leadership impact? Whether it’s in the moment to reflect on a recent situation or zooming out at a major milestone to see the bigger picture, reflection can be incredibly powerful. I’m hitting pause myself this week as I turn the big 5-0! I share two concepts that have helped me understand what it means to live a life of intention and purpose. First, the metaphor of warp and weft—a powerful way to understand the interconnection of the known and discovered elements of your life and see the patterns that emerge in your life’s fabric. Second, the deeper meaning of my guiding word—Intention. I explore how I’ve come to see that Intention = Heart + Direction® and the energetic vitality that uncovering your deeper purpose can have in both your personal life and leadership. If you are looking for ways to understand your purpose, reflect, to make more intentional choices, this episode is for you. Let’s explore how you too can lead with intention and can weave purpose into everything you do. YOU’LL LEARN:
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TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE: 00:40 Reflecting and celebrating turning 50 05:32 The difference between the warp and weft threads, the known and the discovered | |||
| 10 Jan 2024 | 8 | Wiring the Winning Organization [with Gene Kim and Steven Spear] | 00:52:46 | |
And why, even when using the same tools and methodologies, some companies are able to leverage them to achieve success whereas at others they just become the flavor of the month? If you are curious about the answers, you won't want to miss this episode with Steve Spear and Gene Kim where we unpack what makes companies “great” and explore key concepts in their new book, “Wiring the Winning Organization: Liberating our Collective Greatness through Slowification, Simplification, and Amplification”. Together, we peel back the layers of organizational innovation and problem-solving to focus on the critical – and often missing elements – for high performance. Tune in to discover the role that management systems and leadership play in shaping an organization's success, and the mechanisms that enable innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration across large, complex organizations. It makes no difference what you call it – lean, agile, DevOps – wiring your organization to win always comes back to the principles of good leadership. If you are a leader, an operational excellence practitioner, or simply someone aspiring to create and thrive in a winning organization, this is an episode you can't afford to miss.
Hit play now to discover how you can build a high-performing organization and wire your organization for greatness.
Gene Kim is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author and former CTO of TripWire, specializing in improving software development and IT management for high-performing technology organizations. Links:
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| 15 May 2024 | 17 | Leading Change from the Middle [with Pennie Saum] | 00:45:17 | |
Does successful change always have to start from the top? How can you stop pushing change on your leaders and instead create pull from them for the organizational culture you envision? If you're leading continuous improvement internally, these questions are crucial because they address the challenge of how to cultivate a workforce of capable, engaged problem-solvers across all levels. That’s why, in this episode, I welcome Pennie Saum, a Process Improvement Program Manager at the Port of Seattle, to discuss how to lead organizational transformation from the middle by engaging people's minds and hearts and bringing them along on the journey. You’ll hear Pennie share how the Port’s Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) program has been pivotal in creating an engine of change by developing employees across the organization. From basic foundations to a selective Lean Specialist program, leaders at all levels are being empowered to lead improvement as part of their daily work. , Tune in to learn more about community building, inclusion, and effectively involving people in improving processes to create a vibrant culture of continuous improvement.
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| 21 Aug 2024 | 24 | Deming’s Journey to Profound Knowledge [with John Willis] | 00:52:13 | |
If you're passionate about continuous improvement, quality, or operational excellence, chances are Dr. W. Edwards Deming has shaped your journey—even if you haven't realized it yet. But do you know how this influence came about and the profound impact Deming’s management theories have had on shaping quality and improvement approaches such as Lean, Agile, and DevOps? I've invited John Willis, author of "Deming's Journey to Profound Knowledge," to today’s episode to explore Deming’s learning journey to become the father of the quality movement and how he influenced the development of the Toyota Production System and Japan’s rebirth following World War II. We discuss Deming's pioneering management teachings and how you can apply his System of Profound Knowledge to solve problems in today's complex work environments. We also explore the four lenses of the System of Profound Knowledge—appreciation for a system, understanding variation, theory of knowledge, and psychology—and how integrating these concepts can elevate your approach to leadership and improvement. Tune in to discover how you can apply these management theories to solve the complex problems within your organization today. YOU’LL LEARN:
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| 04 Sep 2024 | 25 | Get Results Through the Power of Serious Leadership [with Kecia Kelly and Amy Chaumeton] | 00:51:40 | |
Do you and your leadership team feel burdened by solving all the problems that get in the way of achieving the results your organization needs? You’re not alone. This is the crux of the leadership challenge: transitioning from being the primary problem-solver to a transformational leader who creates the conditions for their people to achieve results. This requires a shift in mindset and a shift in behavior, and leaders must be serious about both. So, what does it take—especially as a senior leader—to truly create a culture of continuous improvement? To explore the journey to becoming a more serious leader, one striving to create a high performing organization in today's complex work environments, I invited two senior healthcare executives to the podcast. Drs. Kecia Kelly, SVP & Chief Nursing Officer, and Amy Chaumeton, Associate Chief Medical Officer at Legacy Health share the changes they’re making in their leadership approach, including how they're creating alignment around mission and purpose, nurturing their teams’ problem-solving capabilities, and fostering joy and human connection in the workplace. (Plus, you’ll hear how my Japan Study Trip leadership program has accelerated their leadership growth through a shared learning experience and purposeful reflection, and the positive effects these shifts are having on their teams and organizational outcomes.) Whether you're an executive, operational leader, or coach guiding leaders to success, you won’t want to miss this episode. Tune in to discover how to transform your leadership and empower your teams to create a culture of excellence. YOU'LL LEARN:
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TIMESTAMPS: 05:01 Challenges Amy & Kecia’s faced at Legacy Health and healthcare 08:51 Kecia & Amy’s approach to leading differently at Legacy Health 12:54 Amy’s “aha” moment on the Japan study trip and how it’s impacted her leadership 16:04 How Kecia now supports problem-solving within her team 16:40 How to create sustained improvement 22:49 How to be a “serious leader” 26:09 The significance of alignment and having a clear mission across the organization 28:14 The importance of leading with intention and respect for people 35:09 Behavior shifts in becoming a serious leader 44:58 The value of going on the Japan Study Trip as an executive leadership cohort | |||