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Episódios
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What questions are on your mind? That’s the question I posed to you last month when I asked you to “Ask me anything!”
I received many great questions and, as promised, I’ve picked five to dive into during this episode.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:
How to shift from a “command and control” leadership style to a culture focused on continuous improvementCommon obstacles organizations face when implementing transformational change and how to overcome themHow you can effectively balance the need for short-term results with the pursuit of long-term strategic goals while developing peopleInsights on transitioning from a lean leader in an organization to starting a consultancy businessHow continuous improvement teams can amplify their impact and link leadership coaching to driving real business outcomesWhat 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:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/33Check out my website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonDownload the KATALYST™ self-assessment to fast-track your leadership impact: kbjanderson.com/Katalyst Download the free guide "3 Tips to Break The Telling Habit®” and discover how you can start asking better questions: kbjanderson.com/telling-habitBe the first to know about new episodes and other resources: kbjanderson.com/newsletterAsk your questions for future episodes: ChainOfLearning.com/AskTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:
0:39 How asking questions can spark a culture of continuous learning and improvement2:04 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
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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.
In this episode, Isaac Mitchell, VP of Operational Excellence at Ballad Health System, shares his experience leading through Hurricane Helene and how he's fostering an organizational culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.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:
How to distinguish between true crises and perceived urgencyThe importance of aligning organizational and personal purpose to drive strategic successA framework for where to spend your time as a leader to build a high-performing organizationHow to demonstrate respect for people by encouraging a personal understanding of purpose and owning the thinking process, not the answersPractical tips for building a people-centered culture that drives sustainable growthIn 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:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/32Connect with Isaac Mitchell: linkedin.com/in/isaacmitchellJoin Isaac’s Book Clubs: Lean Book Club and Lean Coffee Club Check out my website for resources and working together: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonJoin me on my Japan Study Trip leadership program: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripLearn about the warp and weft metaphor in my book: Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn and companion workbookTIMESTAMPS 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
14:10 Respecting people’s development and using Gemba16:19 How to use daruma dolls in goal setting
20:57 Katie’s BIG new goal reveal22:25 Using a hanko when coaching for problem solving
30:36 Isaac’s North Star for the year and Japan Study Trip lessons
32:11 How Gemba helps leaders prioritize what's essential36:23 Setting big goals and using them to push for growth
41:34 Value of cultural and business learning
45:54 The warp and weft metaphor for goal settingSpaces still available for the May 2025 Japan Study Trip - apply now!
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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:
The meaning of the Japanese word Hansei – self-reflection – and the risk if you get caught more in doing and don’t take time to reflect How you can use the Plan-Do-Study-Adjust (PDSA) cycle to improve and why I suggest we call it the Study-Adjust-Plan-Do (SAPD) cycleThe 3 ways to reflect with intention even while short on timeThe backstory to how this podcast started and personal reflections of what I’ve learned and adjusted over producing 31 episodesThe questions to ask yourself for meaningful reflectionI 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:
Full episode show notes and links: ChainOfLearning.com/31Comment and share your process for reflection on LinkedIn hereCheck out my website: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonGet my book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” – LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:
2:37 The meaning of the Japanese word Hansei
4:11 The 5 steps to applying Hansei and using the (SAPD) cycle5:28 Reflection Process 1: immediate self reflection after an event, even if you’re short on time
6:27 Reflection Process 2: reflect with others or in a group setting to get feedback and share ideas
8:05 Reflection Process 3: reflect over time by looking back
9:38 Backstory of how the Chain of Learning podcast started
12:37 Process launching the podcast and the challenges and lessons learned
18:53 Personal growth and what I have learned over time since starting the podcast
31:47 Questions to ask yourself to add reflection in your daily, monthly and yearly process31:35 Share your process for reflection on LinkedIn or via email
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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?
Perhaps you've been focusing on just one side of the path of excellence—improvement processes and tools—while overlooking a critical component: respect for people.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.
By going beyond process improvement tools to deeply focusing on people first, Stephanie and her executive team have fostered greater collaboration, trust, and growth, resulting in a thriving, engaged workplace with more problem-solving and innovation.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:
How to create balance in your organization between the pillars of continuous improvement and respect for peopleThe importance of navigating tension between getting results and allowing time for your team to grow on the path towards achieving themWhy performance management should be a two-way street that includes upward feedback for continuous learning and alignmentHow embedding respect for people and psychological safety into your organization can lead to improved results and enhance employee experiencesThe benefits of a people-centered culture for elevating both fulfillment and performanceABOUT 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:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/30Connect with Stephanie Bursek: www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-bursek-sphr-0a7b801Check out my website: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonMy Japan Study Trip leadership program: KBJAnderson.com/japantripTIMESTAMPS:
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
24:10 Examples of a people-entered environment created through humility & resilience -
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.
The difference between boring problems vs. creative problems and how to bring authentic interest to solving the “boring problems” in your organizationThe risk in relying solely on “known” solutions instead of exploring innovative ways to solve problemsWhy organizations need to start thinking more upstream rather than focusing on what’s in front of themWhat the Decision Sprint Model is and how you can use it to get ahead of problems and move problem-solving upstreamThe difference between bureaucracy and chaos and how to avoid being stuck between the two
YOU’LL LEARN: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:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/29Connect with Atif Rafiq: www.linkedin.com/in/atif1/ Order your copy of “Decision Sprint” by Atif Rafiq: www.decisionsprint.com/book Check out my website: KBJAnderson.com/Follow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:
[2:24] Atif’s massive career shift and the challenge of changing the culture of a large established organization
[5:51] The risk of staying in a safe zone rather than navigating through ambiguity[7:52] Boring problems versus creative problems and an example of the importance of taking interest in a “boring” problem
[14:14] The Decision Sprint Model and how it helps move thinking and problem solving upstream
[16:21] The role of experimentation in problem solving and the benefits of collaboration to gain insights
[20:10] Concept of alignment and how it connects exploration and decision making
[25:57] Difference between bureaucracy and chaos
[29:11] Upstream and downstream work and creating different systems for managing both -
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.
Transformational leadership isn’t about knowing all the answers. Connect with your purpose, step away from being the "doer," and empower others so that you – and they – can see better results.YOU’LL LEARN:
How to implement transformational leadership practices that create lasting organizational change, not just short-term resultsThe importance of using simple terms instead of technical jargon to help get buy-in and help others understand the problems they need to solveStrategies to manage burnout by surrounding yourself with a supportive community and focusing on what truly mattersHow to bring your whole self to the workplace to fulfill your complete purpose and build trust within the organizationThe benefits of the maturity model to help leaders close the gap between their current condition and the results they want to achieveABOUT 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:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/28Connect with Cindy Hinds: www.linkedin.com/in/cindyhindsMy website: KBJAnderson.com/Download the Change KATALYST™ Self–Assessment to discover the 8 competencies you must master to become a transformational change leader: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS 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
[15:06] Using “Nemawashi” to prepare for future actions or business decisions[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
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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:
Your role as a facilitator to create the process your group needs to meet the end goalHow to work with your stakeholders to define the goal of the session so that you can design an agenda to get to the right outcomes The importance of creating a structured plan while maintaining flexibility to respond to what the group needs in the momentHow to to leverage reflection for yourself and the group before, during and after the session to create a bigger impactMistakes to avoid to become a master facilitatorIMPORTANT LINKS:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/27 Work with me: KBJAnderson.com Change KATALYST™ Self–Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonRELATED PODCAST EPISODES:
Episode 9: The 8 Essential Skills to Become a Transformational Change Katalyst™TIMESTAMPS FOR THIS EPISODE:
[3:40] Understand your role as a facilitator
[6:23] The importance of knowing the goal of the session before starting, whether it’s a workshop, leadership retreat, or a team meeting[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
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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:
Why our brains are more tuned to stories than factsThe difference between just sharing information and truly motivating actionHow to avoid the “expert trap” and connect on a human levelTwo practical frameworks to craft compelling storiesReal–life examples of powerful storytelling in actionIf 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:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/26Connect with Carol Cox: www.linkedin.com/in/carolcox Carol Cox’s Website: www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Work with me: KBJAnderson.com Change KATALYST™ Self–Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS:
00:44 The importance of storytelling in making a lasting impact for both business and individual leaders
04:48 How to avoid "expert trap" where leaders rely too heavily on data and information10:55 The difference between sharing an anecdote and creating an emotionally compelling story
12:30 How the “Challenge, Choice, Outcome” framework can help you identify and shape your experiences into stories12:38 IDEAL framework to enhance your storytelling and applying it effectively in various settings
30:12 Categories that can help you identify impactful stories to create your story bank35:58 Practical tips to make your presentations more engaging and memorable
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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:
What it means to be a “serious” leaderWhy developing yourself goes beyond education and certifications to putting into practice the actions to understand and support the work of your teamHow to overcome burnout in the workplace by creating a more joyful people-centered work environmentThe leadership impact of unburdening yourself from solving all your organizations’ problems by developing your teams’ capabilities for getting results and sustainable improvements.The value of collective reflection among senior leaders to achieve alignment and clarity in organizational goalsIMPORTANT LINKS:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/25My book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” - LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comConnect with Amy Chaumeton: linkedin.com/in/amy-chaumetonConnect with Kecia Kelly: linkedin.com/in/kecia-kelly-facheFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about my Japan Study Trip leadership program: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripTIMESTAMPS:
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
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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:
The fundamental essence of leadership and how connecting people with purpose can drive organizational success.The significance of Deming's System of Profound Knowledge and the integration of its four components.How experiencing lean principles in action differs from theoretical knowledge and why it's critical for effective change leadership.The role of psychological safety in fostering an environment where everyone's input is valued.Insights on how Deming’s principles apply to contemporary challenges, such as generative AI, emphasizing the importance of operational definitions and probability in managing complex systems.IMPORTANT LINKS:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/24John’s book “Deming’s Journey to Profound Knowledge” - hereGet the book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn:” LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comConnect with John Willis: linkedin.com/in/johnwillisatlantaFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about the Japan Study Trip leadership program: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripTIMESTAMPS:
[00:00] An introduction to today’s guest and author of "Deming's Journey to Profound Knowledge," John Willis[05:04] Dr. Deming’s concept of profound knowledge[05:43] The four elements to understand complexity [12:23] How the Toyota Way pillar of Continuous Improvement = Wisdom and Kaizen [20:13] The impact of a collaborative culture [24:03] Deming’s people-centered leadership approach [28:56] John’s key takeaways a year after joining my executive Japan Study Trip leadership program[41:39] John’s advice on applying Deming’s principles today and the development of GenAI -
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.
How to define and align your strategy and goals to ensure organizational success by focusing on clear standards and processes.The importance of not just making metrics visible – but “making people visible” – by acknowledging their contributions is crucial for fostering a culture of psychological safety and engagement.The significance of servant leadership in valuing individuals' thoughts and experiences, regardless of their position within the organization.The difference between key performance actions (KPAs) and key performance indicators (KPIs) and how to leverage them to achieve significant performance improvements.Actionable advice on creating common meaning through language and connecting with your team, based on real-life examples and practices.
YOU’LL LEARN:IMPORTANT LINKS:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/23Get Billy’s book “The Winning Link” - hereGet the book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” – available in paperback, hardbound, audiobook, and ebook - LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonFollow Billy on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billyrtaylorDownload the KATALYST Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystTIMESTAMPS:
[00:00] The importance of value and respect in leadership [03:07] Helpful practices that have shaped Billy’s leadership approach [06:59] The power of embracing who you are as a leader[09:38] How to connect an entire organization (“LinkedXL”)[11:25] What “winning” really means according to Billy[13:54] The link between KPAs and KPIs[18:02] The importance of DEI and inclusion[23:45] The power of trust within large organizations [26:44] Billy’s learnings from his book[31:22] Billy’s greatest challenge as a leader -
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.
How reflection (hansei) is crucial for effective leadership and continuous improvement. Reflecting on both good and bad experiences leads to new insights and better decision-making.How failures can serve as powerful learning opportunities, and the significance of fostering a culture that embraces mistakes for deeper understanding and innovation.Mr. Yoshino emphasizes that true learning happens through continuous reflection. How "Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn" is not meant to be read just once; it is a resource for ongoing reflection and deep learning.The importance of a personal reflection process and how it can significantly contribute to one's leadership and personal growth journey.
YOU’LL LEARN:IMPORTANT LINKS:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/22Get the book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” – available in paperback, hardbound, audiobook, and ebook - LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about my Japan Study Trip leadership program: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripTIMESTAMPS:
[00:00] Introduction to the power of reflection, or hansei, with guest Isao Yoshino[03:12] Overview of the concept of hansei – reflection – why it’s important and how it influenced the writing of Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn[09:24] The importance of having an attitude toward learning [14:06] Mr. Yoshino’s definition of powerful and hat makes Learning to Lead Leading to Learn powerful [23:46] Mr. Yoshino’s learnings based on his new perspective [28:59] The importance of asking open questions and hearing other people’s challenges and struggles [30:00] A framework to help you practice reflection[34:51] How one plus one equals more than two -
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."
Join us as we celebrate two anniversaries: our first meeting in July 2014 and the four-year anniversary of our book. In Part 1 of our conversation, Mr. Yoshino shares his insights on leadership, learning, and the Chain of Learning® concept.
We'll discuss lessons from successes and failures, the strength of connections, and people-oriented leadership. Whether you're looking to implement these practices with your team or find inspiration for your leadership journey, this episode is full of actionable insights from one of the wisest and most caring leaders I know.YOU’LL LEARN:
The importance of seriousness in demonstrating your commitment to your people, developing a strong organizational culture, and modeling the way.How establishing patience as a foundational attitude is essential to your leadership effectiveness and organizational success.Strategies for fostering personal and professional growth by learning from both successes and failures.Practical advice on translating Toyota’s practices into your leadership approach, emphasizing commitment, patience, and continuous learning.Insights into Toyota's people-centered learning culture and how you can foster this culture in your organization.IMPORTANT LINKS:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/21Get the book “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” – available in paperback, hardbound, audiobook, and ebook - LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about my Japan Study Trip leadership development program: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripTIMESTAMPS:
[00:00] Introduction to Chain of Learning with guest Isao Yoshino[05:17] What ‘Chain of Learning’ means to Mr. Yoshino [11:25] The importance of leaders asking questions [15:37] What Mr. Yoshino has learned about leadership[17:51] Why ‘seriousness’ is so vital [21:46] Combining seriousness with patience [27:24] The power of working at Toyota [33:25] Mr. Yoshino’s advice to himself and you[35:45] Katie’s key takeaways from the conversation -
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.
How transitioning from a 'doer' of improvements to a coach and enabler of managers and executives can drive sustainable changeDifferent strategies for simplifying complex principles, making them accessible and actionable for leadersThree important things to include when communicating to leaders: the reason for change, expected results, and methods The importance of observation and reflection in driving learning forward and the challenge of integrating them into practiceHow to help leaders demonstrate they are serious about leading change
YOU’LL LEARN: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.
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/20Connect with Brad Toussaint on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/brad-toussaintWork with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™ Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonLearn more about my Japan Study Trip leadership development program: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTrip
IMPORTANT LINKS:TIMESTAMPS:
[00:00] How to improve as a change leader[03:38] How Brad coaches executives and leads change [09:42] How to speak in a way that connects you to your leaders[10:34] Using language as a force for leadership[13:52] Simplifying terms and topics [23:27] Management should focus on process and people[28:20] Reflection time is valuable for busy leaders[33:35] Why leaders should deeply understand their role and their people[39:00] Why leaders must pull, not just push change[40:35] Three important characteristics you need to lead change -
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.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙞𝙨: 𝙣𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙧𝙤𝙡𝙚, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙣 “𝙨𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙨” 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙪𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚!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.
If you want to become a more influential change leader who identifies and bridges gaps through strategic communication, this episode is for you.YOU’LL LEARN:
How asking compelling questions and listening helps you influence decisions and lead change effectivelyStrategies for coaching executives to engage actively in change initiatives, highlighting the difference between persuasion and manipulationThe importance of preparation in getting buy-in includes understanding your audience, conducting thorough research, and developing situational awareness Techniques to adapt your communication style to match different behavioral types — talkers, controllers, doers, and supporters — to enhance your effectiveness in selling ideas and facilitating organizational changeA framework that will help you ensure personal and professional alignment with your purpose, abilities, values, commitments, and beliefs
Tune in now to enhance your leadership and get buy-in by mastering the power of persuasion through listening.
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/19Connect with Derek on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/derekroberts1/Book: “Listen to Sell”:amazon.com/Listen-Sell-Skillset-Connections-Performance/dp/1774583763Work with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™ Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson
IMPORTANT LINKS:TIMESTAMPS:
[00:00] An introduction to Derek Roberts [04:09] Sharing a vision and getting buy-in[08:40]Discussion about Derek's book and the training programs he offers through Integrity Solutions[11:18] The distinction between asking logical vs. emotional questions[17:19] The tension between being persuasive and avoiding manipulation[20:12] The power of truly listening[23:01] Different behavioral styles and their influence on the buying experience[32:15] The five areas of the congruence model relevant to sales and leadership roles[37:50] Derek’s journey in being more engaged and curious [42:41] The impact of concentrating your energy on preparation -
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:
How kaizen represents the discipline to continuously pursue positive change within yourself and in your organizationKey strategies for identifying and correcting misalignments between your intentions and actions so that you can create a culture where continuous improvement is practiced by everyoneHow you can shift from being the primary problem-solver to an enabler who cultivates the skills necessary for overcoming challengesEffective ways to embed the principles of kaizen into personal leadership habits, enhancing your impact as a leader or coach and setting an example for others to followInsights into how you can use a scientific problem-solving method for personal improvement as well as problem-solvingTune 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!
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/18Learn more about my executive Japan Study Trips: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripRead the “paint story” in my Shingo-award-winning book LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comTake the Change KATALYST™ Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson
[00:00] Understanding the true meaning of Kaizen[03:44] Psychological safety and leaders’ responses to mistakes are key for an operational excellence culture[08:54] The real meaning of Kaizen is about self-discipline, continuous improvement, and making change for the greater good[11:21] Creating an organization filled with problem solvers with Larry Culp[17:46] How intention is about aligning behavior with impact and purpose[19:33] How to use Plan-Do-Study-Adjust (PDCA) or Study-Adjust-Plan-Do (SAPD) cycles for personal improvement
TIMESTAMPS: -
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.
How successful change initiatives can, and sometimes should, be led from the middle of an organization rather than from the top downHow leaders and internal process improvement consultants shifting from doers to coaches allows for broader ownership of improvement initiatives across an organizationWhy belonging and community must exist within the workplace to foster an environment that nurtures continuous improvement and engagementThe benefits of immersive learning experiences, such as study trips to Japan, which provide hands-on learning, enhance team-building, and boost collaborative skills The importance of meeting people where they are at to increase engagement and ownership of process improvement and change leadership
YOU’LL LEARN:
You’ll also hear why the Port of Seattle has invested in sending cohorts of leaders on my Japan Study Trips as a key part of its strategy to create a culture of leader-led continuous improvement and why Pennie is looking forward to joining me in Japan this November.
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/17Learn more about my executive Japan Study Trip: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripWork with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™ Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonConnect with Pennie on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/penniesaum/
IMPORTANT LINKS:TIMESTAMPS:
[00:00] Leadership and learning unite for continuous improvement[04:32] Pennie’s transition to lead lean process improvement across different industries, from trucking to government [11:16] Methods for sharing wins and addressing frustrations[16:06] The importance of adaptability and flexibility in organizational leadership[23:16] Encouraging workplace learning and its personal impact[27:38] Leveraging middle managers to drive change[32:43] What it looks like to create a culture of bravery and transformation -
Are you focusing on the right problems in your organization? More importantly, are you creating the conditions and processes to solve them effectively?
In this episode, Mark Graban and I explore the importance of developing the skills of an Analytical Systems Thinker—one of the eight core competencies in my Change KATALYST™ model—to catalyze truly meaningful change.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:
The difference between leading change and leading actual improvement How monitoring metrics and experimenting move the needle in a statistically meaningful way How to react less and lead more effectively by mastering the art of interpreting data to discern statistical signals and genuine performance shiftsWhat it takes to create psychological safety and encourage continuous organizational improvementThe importance of how leaders respond to mistakes to create a culture of learning, problem-solving, and innovationThe importance of modeling, encouraging, and rewarding candor to create a culture where mistakes and learning are embracedYou’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!
Full episode show notes: ChainOfLearning.com/16Learn more about my executive Japan Study Trip: KBJAnderson.com/JapanTripWork with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™ Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/KATALYSTFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson
IMPORTANT LINKS:TIMESTAMPS:
[00:00] Driving change vs. leading actual improvement[03:11] Defining characteristics of effective Analytical Systems Thinkers [05:29] The process of value stream mapping and system dynamics[07:26] The Measure of Success & advice for leaders looking to use data to inform better decision-making[14:47] The risk of wasting time & resources if you remain in a reactive state[20:14] The importance of mistakes for a culture of learning, problem-solving, and innovation[32:43] Key takeaways from Mark’s and Katie’s experiences in Japan and the value of going on a Japan Study Trip[41:36] Mark’s best piece of advice for other continuous improvement change leaders -
Want to know the secret to success?
It’s about embracing lifelong learning, being willing to try new things and seek out information, setting intentions to get better, and embracing the failures that come with learning your way forward.I believe when we stay in learning – a learning attitude, mindset, and practice – anything is possible.
Being a “learning enthusiast” is a foundational part of who I am. It’s given me the courage to step out into the unknown and, ultimately, has catapulted my personal growth and leadership impact.
In this week’s episode, you’ll discover the 5 core attributes I believe are the heart of becoming a Lifelong Learning Enthusiast, one of the competencies in my Change KATALYST™ model, and how you can leverage them to drive your success too.
So, if you’re ready to revitalize your commitment to learning and enhance your personal, team, and organizational impact, you’re in the right place.YOU’LL LEARN:
The importance of embracing new challenges and knowledge with a learning mindsetThe power of actively seeking feedback for transformative growthHow to be intentional with what you’re trying to improve and the necessary role of reflection in the learning processA framework for becoming more adaptable, adjusting what you're doing based on new knowledge and insights How to lead by example with vulnerability and clarity in purpose to create a learning culture and grow your Chain of Learning®IMPORTANT LINKS:
Full episode shownotes: ChainOfLearning.com/15Work with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™ Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson
[00:00] An introduction to being a lifelong learner[1:15] Some of Katie’s personal experiences as a lifelong learner[9:26] What’s at risk if you don’t make regular learning a priority [12:32] Step #1 - Actively embracing new experiences and knowledge[14:50 ] Step #2 - Being receptive to and proactively seeking out feedback and suggestions[17:40] Step #3 - Setting time for intentional practice and reflection[19:44] Step #4 - Adapting and addressing your approach based on new knowledge and insights [21:42] Step #5 - Modeling the way as a lifelong learning enthusiast[26:19] Katie’s recommendation for the best way to stay in learning
TIMESTAMPS: -
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.
Steps to help you master the critical skill of being an Astute Political Navigator — one of the eight core Change KATALYST™ competencies to further develop your expertise as an organizational change leader A transformational framework to help executives and change leaders like you articulate your vision, integrate individual leadership voices, and align organizational goals How to effectively leverage political dynamics, avoid the trap of becoming another pair of hands, and increase your influenceThe power in politics — how to balance diverse perspectives within an organization and differentiate between good politics and a toxic environmentThe essential roles of empathy, respect, deep listening, and function-specific language to effectively lead and manage change
YOU'LL LEARN:
Full episode shownotes: ChainOfLearning.com/14Betsy’s website: www.betsyjordan.comBetsy’s ‘Enough Already’ podcast: https://www.betsyjordyn.com/podcasts/enough-alreadyWork with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™ Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson
IMPORTANT LINKS:
[00:00] Introduction to the episode [03:43] Navigating good politics as an organizational change leader[06:16] Lessons in navigating both formal and informal political structures [11:26] How to help leaders and consultants articulate goals and bring executives on board [17:48] How to avoid the trap of being a pair of hands: influencing vs. executing [20:34] Differentiating good politics from toxic environments[26:59] The connection between Betsy’s current and past roles in leading organizational change and coaching consultants for growth and impact
TIMESTAMPS: - Mostrar mais
