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  • The Strategy and Leadership podcast, host Anthony Taylor welcomes Nigel Thurlow, CEO of the Flow Consortium, to delve into the nuances of lean thinking and continuous improvement. Nigel shares his extensive experience from Toyota and beyond, offering insights into how Lean principles can apply to various organizational contexts, emphasizing the significance of behavior alongside methodology and tools. This episode is packed with thought-provoking discussions on cultural transformation, the role of human factors, and how organizations can effectively harness their workforce to achieve long-term success.

    Nigel explores the concept of viewing organizations as complex adaptive systems and discusses why prescriptive methodologies often fall short in such environments. He emphasizes the importance of human behaviors and culture in achieving continuous improvement, drawing from his collaborations with complexity thinking experts. Listeners will learn about the practical application of lean methodologies beyond manufacturing environments, discover the importance of root cause analysis, and gain insights into how organizations like McKinsey are shifting their focus toward unlocking human potential. Nigel also discusses practical strategies for leaders to engage employees in continuous improvement and empower teams to make impactful decisions.

    Key Takeaways:

    Lean thinking transcends manufacturing and can be applied to any area with non-value-added activities, focusing on eliminating waste and enhancing processes.

    Organizations must adapt to complex systems by shifting from prescriptive methodologies to emphasizing human factors and team dynamics.

    Effective leadership involves empowering teams to address problems and contribute to cultural transformation by creating a psychologically safe environment.

    Root cause analysis should identify not only the point of occurrence but also the point of cause to effectively address underlying issues.

    The Strategy and Leadership podcast is hosted by SME Strategy Consulting.

    Connect with them when you are looking for a strategic planning facilitator for your next strategy offsite.https://www.smestrategy.net/en/strategic-planning-facilitator
  • Episode Summary:

    Cindy Anderson, CEO of Think Strategy, shares her expert insights into the world of business transitions and strategic acquisitions. Cindy stresses the importance of preparing an exit strategy well in advance, highlighting a five-year timeline to ensure the business is poised for a successful transition. She delves into crucial considerations business owners need to assess, such as the value of company growth, strategic acquisitions, leadership development, and team readiness, especially in the context of evolving market trends as we approach 2025.

    Throughout the conversation, Cindy explores various exit strategies, including the intricacies of ESOPs, helping owners to find tailor-made solutions that align with their business objectives and personal goals. By considering internal transitions or preparing for external sales, she emphasizes the necessity for intentional planning to maximize company value. The discussion extends to the importance of leadership readiness and team development, empowering owners to add significant value to their businesses. Cindy reflects on her personal journey of selling her CPA firm and how those lessons shape her approach today. Listeners will gain a thorough understanding of strategic planning in the context of transitioning out of a business, ensuring the optimal outcomes for both owners and employees.

    Key Takeaways:

    The Importance of an Early Exit Strategy: Business owners should plan their exit strategies at least five years in advance, providing time to prepare for successful transitions.

    Valuing Internal and External Transitions: Every business needs a strategy that aligns with its unique goals and the marketplace, such as implementing ESOPs for suitable companies.

    Leadership and Team Development: Building a strong, independent leadership team can enhance a company's value and facilitate smoother transitions.

    Timing and Strategy Flexibility: Understanding when to act on a sale offer based on market conditions and readiness can significantly influence the success of the transaction.

    Cindy's Personal Experience: Lessons learned from selling her own business highlight the importance of having a comprehensive plan and experienced advisors during transition phases.

    The Strategy and Leadership podcast is hosted by SME Strategy Consulting.

    Connect with them when you are looking for a strategic planning facilitator for your next strategy offsite.https://www.smestrategy.net/en/strategic-planning-facilitatorWant to learn how to facilitate your own strategic planning process? Enroll in the Aligned Strategy Course: https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Aligned-strategy-courseConnect with the host Anthony Taylor on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/
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  • Thomas Dunlap is the managing partner at Dunlap Bennett & Ludwig, an established law firm with around 80 lawyers. His extensive expertise lies in intellectual property law, supported by a diverse professional background as a former CEO of a biotech company, and an army officer with military training. He shares his knowledge by teaching an class on intellectual property for engineers and scientists at Lafayette College.

    Episode Summary:

    With a distinguished background in law, business, and the military, Thomas shares fascinating insights into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and intellectual property (IP), particularly the challenges and opportunities they present. As the discussion delves into the transformative landscape of AI, Taylor and Dunlap consider how businesses can strategically leverage AI technology without compromising their intellectual assets.

    Throughout the conversation, Dunlap highlights the "Wild West" nature of AI and its implications for IP protection. He shares valuable perspectives on how AI technologies are reshaping industries, urging companies to adapt and integrate these tools to stay competitive. Dunlap also sheds light on his law firm's innovative management structure, emphasizing the importance of hiring professionals, even non-lawyers, to efficiently manage non-core activities like HR and marketing. His unique approach showcases how legal practices can break traditional barriers and foster a progressive work environment focused on specialization and efficiency.

    Key Takeaways:

    AI & IP Law: The intersection of AI and intellectual property law poses complex challenges, with the need to clearly define ownership of AI-generated content.

    Innovation in Management: Employing non-lawyer professionals for peripheral tasks enhances efficiency and allows specialized professionals to focus on their core strengths.

    Adoption of AI Tools: Companies not using AI risk falling behind, as AI is an invaluable tool for creative and operational enhancement in businesses.

    Educational Integration: Encouraging future scientists and engineers to utilize AI responsibly can lead to innovative developments and solutions.

    Leadership Practices: Building a successful organization involves aligning management practices with core strengths and creating a culture centered around trust and efficiency.

    The Strategy and Leadership podcast is hosted by SME Strategy Consulting.

    Connect with them when you are looking for a strategic planning facilitator for your next strategy offsite.
  • About the Guest(s):

    Renee Moorfield, PhDRenee Moorfield is the CEO of WisdomWorks Group, a company committed to making thriving a standard of success within organizations. Over her 30-year career, Renee has worked closely with well-known brands such as Coca-Cola, Nike, and AT&T, providing leadership development and cultural transformation insights. She combines scientific research on thriving with practical strategies for leadership to foster environments where individuals and organizations can flourish.

    Episode Summary:

    In this enlightening episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, host Anthony Taylor converses with Renee Moorfield, PhD, the CEO of WisdomWorks Group, about the science of thriving leadership. Drawing from three decades of experience and working with industry giants, Renee shares her thought-provoking insights and frameworks that focus on creating thriving work environments. Her passion for promoting well-being, resilience, and effective leadership is evident throughout the conversation.

    The discussion dives deep into the differentiating factors between leadership and management, emphasizing the importance of utilizing strategic plans to cultivate successful teams within complex dynamic systems. Renee highlights the significance of nurturing thriving leadership backed by science, rather than relying solely on motivational tactics. Listeners will discover the impact of self-care, resilience, and creating supportive work environments for personal and organizational achievement. Renee underlines that thriving should be considered a standard measure of success in today’s businesses.

    Key Takeaways:

    Thriving is an innate capacity within all humans, yet individuals often delay focusing on it. Leaders should integrate personal thriving into daily life to contribute positively to their teams.

    A thriving culture in organizations doesn’t just mean wellness programming but creating environments where employees can flourish and realize their potential.

    Middle managers play a crucial role in cushioning their teams from less supportive corporate structures, making their own self-care and understanding of thriving essential.

    Leadership is about cultivating environments and focusing on relationships before business to support each team member's growth and effectiveness.

    Simple reflective practices, when embedded into leadership, can lead to significant changes in work dynamics and individual well-being.

    Notable Quotes:

    "Your capacity to thrive is innate to you as a human being. You're biologically hardwired to do these things."

    "One of the groups we kind of worry about the most is middle managers because they're the ones buffering from so many directions."

    "Personal reflection is what’s called psychoactive. It already starts to shift how you see how you're designing your life."

    "At the end of the day, of course, results matter, but the way we get there is through healthy relationships."

    "The role of a leader is to steward environments where all people can thrive."

    Resources:

    Website: wisdom-works.com

    LinkedIn: Renee Moorfield

    Renee Moorfield’s perspectives provide a fresh lens on leadership and thriving. To explore more profound insights shared in this discussion, listen to the full episode and stay tuned for more empowering content from the Strategy and Leadership Podcast.

    The Strategy and Leadership podcast is hosted by SME Strategy Consulting.

    Connect with them when you are looking for a strategic planning facilitator for your next strategy offsite.https://www.smestrategy.net/en/strategic-planning-facilitatorWant to learn how to facilitate your own strategic planning process? Enroll in the Aligned Strategy Course: https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Aligned-strategy-courseConnect with the host Anthony Taylor on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/
  • About the Guest:

    Dawn Reese is the CEO of The Wooden Floor, a creative youth development organization that empowers young people through the transformative power of dance and access to higher education. With over 15 years at The Wooden Floor, Dawn has driven significant organizational growth, guided by her expertise in strategy, business development, and finance. Her career began in the technology sector before transitioning to the nonprofit sector, where she applies her business acumen to make meaningful community impact. Dawn is also a proponent of strategic planning and servant leadership.

    Episode Summary:

    In this episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, host Anthony Taylor sits down with Dawn Reese, CEO of The Wooden Floor. Dawn shares her incredible journey from the tech sector to leading a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming young lives through dance and education. The episode dives into the strategic planning and leadership approaches that have driven The Wooden Floor's success. Listen in to discover how strategic visioning and a commitment to people-centric leadership can drive meaningful change in both organizations and communities.

    Dawn Reese elaborates on how The Wooden Floor is more than just a dance studio; it's a creative youth development organization that supports underserved children through dance education, academic support, and college readiness programs. With 100% of their students enrolling in higher education since 2005, Dawn outlines the organization's strategic growth from its humble beginnings to its current expansive reach. The conversation delves into the importance of a long-term strategic plan that includes chapters allowing for iterative progress, stakeholder engagement, and intentional growth that aligns with the organization's mission.

    The episode also emphasizes the crucial role of servant leadership and empathy in cultivating a thriving organizational culture. Dawn's dedication to fostering a supportive and accountable work environment has led to impressive retention rates within her team. She candidly shares lessons learned from past experiences and underscores the importance of living out a clear mission-driven vision. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for leaders aiming to implement effective strategic planning while leading with heart and purpose.

    Key Takeaways:

    The Wooden Floor goes beyond being a dance studio, transforming young lives through dance education and college readiness, ensuring 100% of students enroll in higher education.

    Strategic planning involves a long-term vision with iterative chapters that allow for flexible and responsive growth, rather than rigid SMART goals.

    Servant leadership and empathy are key to fostering strong, dedicated teams and ensuring organizational success.

    Effective strategic planning requires strong stakeholder engagement, listening, and implementation as insights are gathered.

    Having a growth filter ensures decisions are mission-driven and sustainable, aligning with the organization's core values and strategic objectives.

    Notable Quotes:

    "We inspire and transform young people through the power of dance and access to higher education." – Dawn Reese

    "Not a lot of organizations can do a 10-year vision...we set the vision for the organization." – Dawn Reese

    "For us, it's been really intentional about how we want it...we don't want to grow for growth's sake." – Dawn Reese

    "If they're taken care of, then they'll take care of our mission." – Dawn Reese

    "If I'm ever a CEO, I want to be the person that people can talk to and count on." – Dawn Reese

    Resources:

    Website: The Wooden Floor

    Dawn Reese on LinkedIn: Dawn S. Reese

    Tune into this episode for an in-depth look at how strategic planning and servant leadership can transform an organization and its community impact. Whether you're in the nonprofit sector or corporate world, there's a wealth of practical insights and inspiration to be found. Stay tuned

    The Strategy and Leadership podcast is hosted by SME Strategy Consulting.

    Connect with them when you are looking for a strategic planning facilitator for your next strategy offsite.https://www.smestrategy.net/en/strategic-planning-facilitatorWant to learn how to facilitate your own strategic planning process? Enroll in the Aligned Strategy Course: https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Aligned-strategy-courseConnect with the host Anthony Taylor on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/
  • Fletcher Wimbush is the CEO of Discovered, a leader in talent acquisition and assessment. With a rich background in entrepreneurship and leadership, Fletcher has spent years perfecting the process of matching the right talent with the right roles. His journey in talent acquisition began at a young age, and he has since built on that foundation with extensive industry experience, including opening 25 delis straight out of college and turning around a failing business unit in the commercial dish machine industry. Under his guidance, his company is known for leveraging assessments to improve hiring processes.

    Episode Summary:

    In this engaging episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, host Anthony Taylor invites Fletcher Wimbush, CEO of Discovered, to delve into the intricacies of talent acquisition. Broadcasting from Southern California, Fletcher draws on decades of experience in the field, sharing vital insights into improving recruitment processes and retaining top talent. The conversation is underpinned by the exploration of performance-based job descriptions, structured interviewing, and the pros and cons of leveraging AI in hiring. As Fletcher outlines, understanding the precise requirements of a job through job analysis is crucial to finding the right fit.

    Fletcher highlights the significance of structured interviews and performance-based job descriptions as tools to combat common hiring pitfalls — underscoring the financial and cultural repercussions of hiring the wrong candidate. He emphasizes the importance of conducting a thorough job analysis and using resume reviews, performance-based interviewing, and technical assessments to identify a candidate's potential longevity and fit. Fletcher also touches on the innovative use of AI tools like ChatGPT in streamlining hiring processes, while cautioning about the need for skilled oversight to ensure quality results.

    Key Takeaways:

    Conducting a thorough job analysis and creating performance-based job descriptions are pivotal to successful hiring.

    Resumes should be used as an initial screening tool to identify potential longevity and fit.

    Structured interviewing and performance-based interviewing are among the most predictive methods to assess candidate suitability.

    AI can be a powerful tool in recruitment but requires expertise to leverage effectively.

    Hiring processes should consider both demonstrated skills and potential for growth, depending on the role's requirements.

    The Strategy and Leadership podcast is hosted by SME Strategy Consulting.

    Connect with them when you are looking for a strategic planning facilitator for your next strategy offsite.https://www.smestrategy.net/en/strategic-planning-facilitatorWant to learn how to facilitate your own strategic planning process? Enroll in the Aligned Strategy Course: https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Aligned-strategy-courseConnect with the host Anthony Taylor on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/
  • Chris Hunter is a renowned entrepreneur in the beverage industry, known for co-founding both Four Loko and Koya. With a rich history in business development and brand-building, Chris spearheaded the growth of the iconic Four Loko brand, infamous for its initial high-energy concoction and its prominence in the alcohol market. Transitioning to a focus on health and wellness, he co-founded Koya, a plant-based beverage company aiming to provide nutritious and delicious options. Chris is also an author, sharing his entrepreneurial journey and insights in his newly released book "Blackout Punch."

    The Strategy and Leadership podcast is hosted by SME Strategy Consulting.

    Connect with them when you are looking for a strategic planning facilitator for your next strategy offsite.https://www.smestrategy.net/en/strategic-planning-facilitatorWant to learn how to facilitate your own strategic planning process? Enroll in the Aligned Strategy Course: https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Aligned-strategy-courseConnect with the host Anthony Taylor on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/
  • Justin Bookey is the founder and CEO of Pongfit, a nonprofit organization that promotes the sport of ping pong for mental and physical fitness. He has a diverse professional background with experience in law, communications management, consulting, content strategy, and brand strategy. As a US Open medalist in table tennis, Justin channels his passion for the sport into leadership development, drawing parallels between successful sportsmanship and executive leadership skills. Recently, he authored a book entitled "Ping Pong Leadership," which explores how to succeed in both business and ping pong.

    __________________________

    The Strategy and Leadership podcast is hosted by SME Strategy Consulting.

    Connect with them when you are looking for a strategic planning facilitator for your next strategy offsite.https://www.smestrategy.net/en/strategic-planning-facilitatorWant to learn how to facilitate your own strategic planning process? Enroll in the Aligned Strategy Course: https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Aligned-strategy-courseConnect with the host Anthony Taylor on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/
  • David Edelman is the co-author of "Personalized: The Customer Strategy in the Age of AI." Throughout the conversation, David shares the transformative power of personalization in today’s tech-driven landscape, sharing critical insights derived from his book and extensive professional experience. Their discussion covers how personalization extends beyond simple name mentions to encompass entire customer experience transformations driven by AI and strategic data use.

    The episode delves deeply into the theme of empowerment through personalization, emphasizing the role of technology—particularly generative AI—in creating tailored customer experiences at scale. Anthony and David discuss various industries, from transportation to music streaming, and how these sectors utilize personalized strategies to stay competitive. The dialogue also warns against common pitfalls like appearing 'creepy' by mishandling customer data and underscores the importance of developing agile, test-and-learn frameworks to perfect personalization initiatives. As David points out, "Personalization is a lot about testing and learning."

    Key Takeaways:

    Personalization is much more than individualized marketing—it transforms entire customer experiences by leveraging detailed data insights effectively.

    Companies are urged to promise and deliver empowerment, understanding, convenience, and continuous improvement to their customers through personalized strategies.

    The balance between privacy and personalization is crucial. Customers should feel empowered and not invaded by predictive technology and data use.

    Future trends in personalization will leverage AI to not only provide suggestions but to actively perform tasks, leading to the rise of agentic AI.

    Creating data through customer interactions is critical for enhancing personalization while being transparent with data utilization to avoid being 'creepy.'

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daveedelman/Amazon Book: https://www.amazon.com/Personalized-Customer-Strategy-Age-AI-ebook/dp/B0CT49NK2V

    __________________________

    The Strategy and Leadership podcast is hosted by SME Strategy Consulting. Connect with them when you are looking for a strategic planning facilitator for your next strategy offsite.https://www.smestrategy.net/en/strategic-planning-facilitator

    Want to learn how to facilitate your own strategic planning process? Enroll in the Aligned Strategy Course: https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Aligned-strategy-course

    Connect with the host Anthony Taylor on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/

  • On this episode of the Strategy and Leadership podcast, Anthony Taylor engages with David Ewing, CEO of Motiv and President of EO Austin, in a compelling discussion on the importance of customer experience as a strategic initiative. David shares insights from his two decades of experience in transforming customer engagement and how small actions, when systemized, can lead to big results. This episode dives deep into the intersection of strategy and customer experience, showcasing how businesses can leverage customer touchpoints to foster enduring loyalty and advocacy.

    David emphasizes that creating positive, repeatable customer experiences can be a game-changer for companies looking to do more with less. With references to companies like Chewy.com, he illustrates how smart, strategic decisions, supported by data, can enhance customer lifecycle value. The episode also touches on automation's role in scaling these efforts in larger enterprises. David shares practical steps for businesses large and small to identify and capitalize on moments that matter to their customers, ensuring that even automated interactions feel personal and thoughtful. Throughout, the conversation delves into the significance of combining strategic thinking with empathetic customer engagement to drive business results.

    Key Takeaways:

    Importance of Customer Experience: David Ewing emphasizes positioning customer experience at the center of strategic business operations, turning it into a strength that can be leveraged for greater business success.

    Scaling Care with Technology: Automation and data systems are critical in allowing businesses to replicate personalized customer experiences on a larger scale without losing the personal touch.

    Moments That Matter: Identifying and acting on significant customer interactions — both positive and negative — can strengthen customer relationships and brand loyalty.

    Cross-Selling Opportunities: Engaging customers during peak emotional moments can unlock valuable cross-selling opportunities, enhancing customer lifetime value efficiently.

    Continuous Innovation in Strategy: Businesses should continuously assess and innovate their strategies to realign with the ever-changing customer expectations and industry dynamics.

    The Strategy and Leadership podcast is hosted by SME Strategy Consulting. Connect with them when you are looking for a strategic planning facilitator for your next strategy offsite.https://www.smestrategy.net/en/strategic-planning-facilitator

    Want to learn how to facilitate your own strategic planning process? Enroll in the Aligned Strategy Course: https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Aligned-strategy-course

    Connect with the host Anthony Taylor on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/

  • Join host Anthony Taylor as he engages with Patrick Thean, CEO of Rhythm Systems, on the Strategy and Leadership podcast. They explore the importance of strategic execution, the concept of rhythm in managing organizational success, and how a leader’s personal style can impact a team. Patrick shares insights on accountability, CEO challenges, and aligning leadership strengths with business objectives. Discover how maintaining the right rhythm can help leaders support their teams effectively, ensuring sustainable growth and reduced stress in the corporate environment.

    Thanks for listening to the Strategy and leadership podcast we hope our tools have helped you with your strategic plan creation.

    If you’re looking for more guidance, you might be interested in our self-guided course:

    https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Aligned-strategy-course

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  • Steve Robinson is a renowned speaker, consultant, and author, highly recognized for his impactful career at Chick-fil-A. Serving as the Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) for 35 years, Steve was instrumental in transforming Chick-fil-A from a modest franchise to a multi-billion dollar brand. He is the author of the book "Covert Cows and Chick-fil-A," which delves into the innovative strategies that fueled Chick-fil-A’s success. Growing up in Foley, Alabama, Steve's early exposure to his father’s entrepreneurial ventures sparked his interest in sales and marketing, leading him to a storied career marked by significant achievements and industry-defining marketing philosophies.

    Want learn how to do strategic planning the SME Strategy way? Enroll in our signature course:

    https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Aligned-strategy-course

    Episode Summary:

    In this captivating episode of the Strategy and Leadership podcast, host Anthony Taylor engages in an insightful conversation with Steve Robinson, the former Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Chick-fil-A. Steve shares compelling anecdotes from his illustrious career, detailing his journey from humble beginnings in Foley, Alabama, to becoming a key figure at one of America’s most successful fast-food brands.

    Through engaging reflections, Steve takes us through his 35-year tenure at Chick-fil-A, emphasizing the importance of developing a cohesive and purposeful company culture. He discusses the critical role of building relationships over transactions, a philosophy that not only differentiated Chick-fil-A but also established it as a customer-centric brand. With a focus on sustainable and long-term growth, Steve sheds light on the strategic decisions that allowed Chick-fil-A to flourish into a $22 billion company. From the creation of the iconic Cow Campaign to innovative marketing strategies rooted in generosity and community service, this episode is packed with invaluable lessons for marketers and business leaders.

    Key Takeaways:

    Focus on Culture Over Strategy: Developing a cohesive culture where values and long-term goals are clear can significantly enhance innovation, decision-making, and overall business success.

    Build Relationships, Not Transactions: Prioritizing customer relationships and community engagement leads to sustained growth and brand loyalty.

    Stewardship and Generosity: Embodying stewardship and practicing generosity can create a lasting impression and foster a positive corporate reputation.

    Leadership and Stability: Maintaining stable leadership in-store through experienced and invested operators is key to operational and cultural stability.

    Endearing and Enduring Brand: Focusing on making the brand endearing ensures its endurance, as shown through successful campaigns and customer interactions.

    Notable Quotes:

    "The most important decisions we make here are who we hire, who we invite to join the organization, because we don't train culture here. We hire it." - Steve Robinson

    "We discovered that marketing was kind of an uphill climb in the TI environment." - Steve Robinson

    "If we're going to have positive influence on people, we're going to focus on building relationships, not transactions." - Steve Robinson

    "Our food is worth full price. We need to figure out how to market this business and grow volume, grow the brand, but differently than the rest of the industry." - Steve Robinson

    "If you don't have alignment with what's really important to Truett and the Cathy family, then you really don't understand who Chick-fil-A is." - Steve Robinson

    Resources:

    LinkedIn: Steve Robinson LinkedIn

    Book: Covert Cows and Chick-fil-A

    Website: srobinsonconsulting.com

    Dive deeper into Steve Robinson’s fascinating journey and learn how the principles of purpose and culture can transform your business by listening to the full episode. Stay tuned for more enlightening conversations on the Strategy and Leadership podcast.

  • David Becker is the CEO and Chairman of First Internet Bank, located in Indiana. Known as the "Tech Godfather" of Indiana, David's career in technology spans over 40 years. He founded First Internet Bank in 1999, pioneering online banking against the backdrop of skepticism and traditional banking norms. Under his leadership, the bank has grown to over $5 billion in assets, servicing retail and commercial customers across all 50 states in the U.S. David has also been influential in modernizing the Indiana tech and banking sectors through innovative services and partnerships.

    Learn our signature process for aligning your leadership team: https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Aligned-strategy-course

  • Anthony Taylor hosts Toby Southgate, global CEO of Forsman & Bodenfors, on the Strategy and Leadership Podcast. Toby reflects on his journey from cricket ambitions to leading a global creative collective. They delve into the essence of creative problem-solving, the importance of small, empowered teams, and radical collaboration. Toby shares insights on leading creatives, aligning teams to solve complex problems, and the unique attributes of ambidextrous thinkers in the marketing industry. Tune in for lessons on navigating the evolving marketing landscape and the indispensable human element in this dynamic field.

    Want to learn how to be a better leader and manager, enroll in our management training course: https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Management-Training

  • In this episode of the Strategy and Leadership podcast, host Anthony Taylor sits down with Kathy Guzmán Galloway, an expert with two decades of experience in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. They delve into the intricacies of building and maintaining successful brands, particularly focusing on companies with revenues ranging from $100 million to under a billion. Kathy shares her journey from business school to her extensive tenure at PepsiCo and her eventual transition into consulting, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities within the CPG sector.

    Throughout their conversation, Anthony and Kathy discuss the evolving landscape of brand management, emphasizing the importance of consumer research and staying ahead of market trends. Kathy highlights the distinct differences between operating in a Fortune 1000 company and smaller enterprises, particularly in terms of adaptability and consumer engagement. She underscores the continual need for brands to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences, emphasizing the need for ongoing research and direct consumer interaction to remain competitive in a saturated market.

    Kathy Guzmán Galloway brings over 20 years of experience in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry, specializing in brand management and strategy. Originally from New Jersey, she earned her MBA from the University of Texas at Austin before joining PepsiCo's Frito Lay division in Dallas. Kathy has held roles across small businesses and large organizations, including Dean Foods. For the past 11 years, she has excelled in consulting, focusing on brand positioning, and helping organizations better connect with their consumers.

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    About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING:

    SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster.

    We can facilitate your strategic planning offsite meeting, strategic plan creation, and support your strategic plan implementation.

    For more visit https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic-planning-facilitator

  • Jason Radisson is the CEO and founder of Movo, a company dedicated to providing automation and tools for the frontline workforce. With a notable background as a General Manager for Uber and experience working in various countries, Jason brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. His career spans multiple industries, with a significant focus on leveraging technology to enhance productivity and improve workplace efficiency.

    Anthony Taylor talks with Jason Radisson, CEO and founder of Movo. The episode dives deep into the challenges and opportunities related to digitizing the frontline workforce through mobile technology. Jason shares insights from his extensive background, including his time at Uber, and discusses the transformative potential of mobile automation tools in increasing productivity and improving workers' livelihoods globally.

    Jason discusses how Movo's platform leverages the power of mobile phones to provide better efficiency and flexibility for those in fields like nursing, retail, and manufacturing. He elaborates on the concept of workforce digitization, drawing parallels to the productivity gains seen in white-collar sectors over the past few decades. Jason also addresses various management considerations and cultural shifts necessary for adopting mobile technology in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of trust and the benefits of innovative scheduling automation.

    Movo HQ on LinkedIn

    Movo Website: Movo.co

    Learn how to lead strategic planning the SME Strategy wayConnect with Anthony Taylor
  • The episode kicks off by discussing John's initial business endeavors and the crucial life lessons he learned after being fired from his own company. John delves into the concept of creating a comprehensive life plan, which aligns personal goals with professional ambitions, to achieve long-term success without sacrificing overall well-being.

    Throughout the conversation, John and Anthony explore various strategies and methodologies, including the significance of regular introspection and strategic reflection. They talk about the power of patient ambition and how setting long-term goals can lead to substantial achievements over time. John highlights the necessity of daily practices like journaling and visualization for mental clarity and aligning daily actions with long-term objectives. For entrepreneurs and business leaders seeking both professional success and personal fulfillment, this episode provides invaluable insights and practical strategies.

  • Myriam Hadnes,is a facilitation evangelist with a PhD in behavioral economics, shares insights on the art of facilitation and its impact on organizational dynamics. She emphasizes the importance of psychological safety, vulnerability, and authenticity in creating a conducive environment for collaboration and breakthrough moments. Miriam also highlights the role of facilitation in transforming organizational culture and leadership mindset. TakeawaysFacilitation is not limited to those with the title of a facilitator; it is a mindset that can be adopted by managers to transition from micromanaging to leadership.Psychological safety, vulnerability, and authenticity are crucial in creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and collaborating effectively.The role of a facilitator is to make the implicit explicit, promote vulnerability, and encourage a culture of curiosity and collaboration within the group.Facilitation plays a significant role in transforming organizational culture and leadership mindset, leading to improved team dynamics and better outcomes.The art of facilitation involves preparation, attunement to the needs of the group, and the ability to interpret silence and unspoken dynamics within the group. Sound Bites"I think every manager needs to learn how to facilitate at least a bit to step out of the micromanaging burden into leadership.""As a facilitator, the next step is to show them that there is a higher goal that brings them all together so that they're all on the same side.""When we reply to other people more with 'yes and,' we help the person to feel good about themselves because they feel seen."

  • In this episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, Anthony Taylor interviews Ty Wiggins, CEO and Executive Transition Practice Lead at Russell Reynolds Associates. They discuss the challenges and lessons of transitioning into the CEO role. Ty shares insights from his book, 'The New CEO,' which focuses on the importance of adapting leadership style, managing expectations, and building a strong executive team. They also discuss the impact of communication and culture on a CEO's effectiveness. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for curiosity, adaptability, and a focus on organizational culture in order to succeed as a CEO.

    #CEOtransition, #leadershipstyle, #executiveteam, #communication, #culture, #organizationalculture

    Takeaways:-Transitioning into the CEO role is a significant challenge that requires adapting leadership style and managing expectations.-Effective communication is crucial for a CEO, as their words and actions have a significant impact on the organization.-Building a strong executive team is essential for a CEO's success, and it requires creating an environment of collaboration and trust.-Understanding and shaping organizational culture is a key responsibility of a CEO, as it has a profound influence on the organization's performance.

    Ty Wiggins is a leadership expert who is passionate about setting new CEOs up for success. As the lead of Russell Reynolds Associates’ CEO & Transitions Practice globally, he helps world-leading CEOs successfully onboard and transition into their role, to unlock business (and personal) success— faster. A trusted advisor, he guides new CEOs through their first 12-18 months in role, so they land well and perform quickly. Ty is one of one of only a handful of people globally with a PhD in leadership transitions. He harnesses his deep academic and consulting background to provide CEOs, boards, and senior leadership across industries with the skill and advice needed to enact transformational change.

    // Connect with us:

    ► Contact us: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/

    // About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING:

    SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster.

    ► Work with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic-planning-facilitator

  • Aslak De Silva, CEO of Selfly Store, discusses the innovative business model of intelligent vending machines and the use of AI in retail. The conversation covers topics such as the unique features of Selfly Store, the role of innovation in business, the impact of dynamic pricing, and the experience of being a board member. Aslak also emphasizes the importance of communication, transparency, and lifelong learning in leadership.

    If you prefer to get a video, subscribe on YouTube. : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOHLNRrpk3rGUdg7qUQjiog/?sub_confirmation=1

    About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING:

    SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster.

    Learn more at: https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic-planning-facilitator