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My guests for Episode #512 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast are two of three co-authors of the upcoming book “Leading Excellence: 5 Hats of the Adaptive Leader” - Brad Jeavons and Stephen Dargan.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more
Stephen Dargan
A diverse and inclusive, customer-centric, driven transformational leader with 20+ years of leadership experience spanning Australia and Europe. Stephen is a Shingo Institute Alumni, Shingo Facilitator and Examiner. He is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.
Brad Jeavons
Brad Jeavons is a senior leadership coach focused on helping improve themselves and their organisations to create a better future economically, socially and environmentally for future generations. He is host of the Enterprise Excellence Podcast and Community and author of the book Agile Sales: Delivering Customer Journeys of Value and Delight. Brad was a guest back in episode 416, June 2021.
In this episode, Brade and Steve share insights into the key concepts of adaptive leadership, including the importance of understanding individual team members, cultivating psychological safety, and the five essential leadership hats: Inspire, Train, Support, Coach, and Direct. Brad and Stephen also discuss real-life applications, the significance of leadership shadow, and the critical role of serving the growth of others to drive organizational excellence.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:What are some factors contributing to low employee engagement? Can you elaborate on the concept of the leadership shadow and its impact? What behaviors help cultivate psychological safety and engagement? What does it mean to be a leader who serves, and why is it important? How can leaders develop the ability to be adaptive or situational? What are the five hats referenced in the subtitle of your book? Why is controlling emotions crucial for leaders, and how can they improve this skill?The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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My guests for Episode #512 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast are Steve Pereira and Andrew Davis, authors of the new book Flow Engineering: From Value Stream Mapping to Effective Action.
Blog post with video, transcript, and more
Steve Pereira has spent over two decades improving workflow across various organizations. His experience spans tech support, IT management, platform and infrastructure engineering, product management, and serving as a founding CTO for an enterprise SaaS company. Currently, he is the CEO of Visible Consulting, COO of the Value Stream Management Consortium, and co-founder of the Flow Collective.
Andrew Davis is the Chief Product Officer at AutoRABIT and the author of "Mastering Salesforce DevOps." With a background as a Salesforce architect, developer, and product leader, Andrew focuses on the human side of software development. He spent 15 years as a Buddhist monk, teaching meditation and personal transformation, and now studies the intersection of business, technology, and psychology through systems thinking.
In this episode, we discuss the principles of flow engineering, the importance of psychological safety in process improvement, and their experiences in writing the book. We also dive into their personal journeys, inspirations from industry giants like Deming and Goldratt, and the challenges and lessons learned in collaborative work. Stay tuned for a deep, insightful conversation on enhancing workflows and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:Can you discuss the relationship between making mistakes and learning from a Buddhist perspective, Andrew? Why do you resonate with figures like Deming, Goldratt, and Ackoff in your improvement work, Steve? How did you two end up collaborating on the book? Did you apply flow engineering concepts to the development and writing of the book together? How did the process of writing the book evolve over time? What lessons did you learn about collaboration and flow from writing this book? How does psychological safety impact value stream mapping and flow engineering? How do you involve workers in process design to avoid negative perceptions of imposed processes? What challenges did you face in maintaining a regular cadence of work while writing the book?The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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In this special live-streamed bonus episode of the Lean Blog Interviews podcast, host Mark Graban is joined by Paul Critchley for an impromptu experiment in recording a live podcast. The episode begins with a brief introduction and a discussion about the decision to try a live format.
Paul Critchley, a seasoned Lean consultant, shares his background, detailing his journey from a mechanical engineer in the automotive industry to his current role as a Lean practitioner and consultant. He highlights his experiences working with Toyota and Pratt & Whitney, emphasizing the practical application of Lean principles in various industries, including aerospace.
Summit info: https://newenglandleanconsulting.com/summit/
The conversation then shifts to Paul's upcoming event, the New England Lean Summit, scheduled for September 12-13, 2024, in Cromwell, Connecticut. Paul discusses the summit's agenda, which includes workshops, sessions, and a Lean Happy Hour. He expresses his excitement about bringing together Lean professionals from diverse industries to foster learning and networking in a fun and engaging environment.
Paul also introduces the New England Lean Collaborative, a member-based organization aimed at building a community of Lean practitioners in the New England region. He explains the collaborative's activities, such as book clubs, site tours, and resource sharing, designed to facilitate continuous learning and improvement.
The collaborative: https://newenglandleanconsulting.com/the-nelc/
The episode wraps up with Mark and Paul addressing a viewer's question about implementing Lean practices in small companies with limited resources. Paul advises starting small, focusing on incremental improvements, and maintaining momentum through continuous, manageable changes.
Throughout the episode, Paul emphasizes the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment for learning and experimenting with Lean practices, highlighting the benefits of fun and engagement in the process. The episode concludes with a reminder of the event details and an invitation for listeners to join the New England Lean Summit and Collaborative.
00:01:24: Guest Introduction - Paul Critchley
00:03:00: Paul's Career Background
00:03:39: Discussion on Practicing Lean - https://practicinglean.com/
00:05:02: New Projects and Endeavors
00:05:29: New England Lean Summit Introduction
00:06:08: Details about the New England Lean Summit
00:07:04: Summit Logistics and Activities
00:09:02: Lean Happy Hour Concept
00:10:00: Hope for Future Annual Events
00:10:19: Overview of the New England Lean Collaborative
00:11:00: Functioning of the Collaborative
00:11:42: Membership Benefits and Activities
00:12:48: Discussion about Industry Participation
00:14:23: Lean Tools and Concepts
00:15:23: Connection with Bob Rush and Workshop Details
00:16:36: Fun Activities Planned for the Summit
00:17:01: Emphasizing fun and networking at the summit
00:17:39: Lessons from Pascal Dennis at Toyota
00:18:31: Incorporating a DJ at the conference
00:19:48: Creating a relaxed and engaging atmosphere
00:21:02: Unique conference experiences
00:22:00: Opportunities for
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My guest for Episode #511 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is Sam Yankelevitch, a distinguished global operations executive who has dedicated his career to advancing Lean principles, effective communication, and innovative problem-solving. Sam's journey began with managing international projects and optimizing processes in various industries. His expertise and passion for continuous improvement have made him a sought-after speaker, workshop trainer, and corporate coach.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more
Sam is one of the speakers and facilitators at the upcoming Global Lean Summit Event, being held in Indiana this September.
Since 2014, Sam has leveraged his vast knowledge by producing popular online courses that have reached over 500,000 students worldwide. His contributions to LinkedIn Learning include highly-regarded courses such as "Root Cause Analysis" and "Improve Communication Using Lean Thinking." Sam's ability to distill complex concepts into actionable insights has earned him a dedicated following among professionals seeking to enhance their skills.
In addition to his educational endeavors, Sam recently ventured into fiction writing with his debut book, An Interview with Failure. This unique narrative explores the lessons learned from setbacks and the value of embracing failure as a stepping stone to success.
Before establishing himself as an influential educator and author, Sam held several key positions, including Vice President and General Manager at a German-based automotive supplier and President and CEO of Ideace, Inc., an international manufacturer and exporter. His diverse background and hands-on experience provide a rich foundation for his teachings.
Sam holds an Industrial Engineering degree and an Executive Master's in Financial Management, further solidifying his expertise in operational excellence and strategic leadership.
In this episode, we discuss the pivotal role that effective communication plays within the framework of lean thinking. We also explore how clear, concise, and consistent communication can significantly enhance problem-solving capabilities, streamline processes, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Sam shares his insights on the common communication pitfalls that organizations face and offers practical solutions to overcome these challenges using lean methodologies.
Additionally, we preview Sam's upcoming workshop at the Global Lean Summit, where he will be leading a session on lean communication. This workshop aims to equip participants with hands-on tools and techniques to improve communication within their organizations. Attendees will learn how to adapt lean principles to enhance clarity, reduce misunderstandings, and ensure that everyone in the organization is on the same page, thereby driving better results and fostering a more collaborative work environment.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:Tell us about the workshop you're doing at the Global Lean Summit. What are some core communication problems that Lean thinking addresses? Can you explain the concept of operational definitions from Dr. Deming? How can Lean methods improve communication in an organization? What's your lean origin story? How did your international experience influence your Lean approach? What were some challenges you faced when implementing Lean in the automotive industry? What advice would you give to someone leading a Lean transformation? How do you reframe failure as a learning opportunity? Can you tell us about your book, "An Interview with Failure"? How do you build trust in a coaching relationship? What's the importance of commitment conversations in leadership? How do you handle the word "accountability" in a positive way? How does communication serve as a precondition to quality? What can leaders do to improve their communication skills on the shop floor? What are the benefits of standard work and 5S in a high-mix, low-volume environment? How can Lean tools like Smed and Andon be applied to communication processes? What lessons have you learned about leading and motivating people throughout your career?The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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My guest for Episode #510 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is Karen Martin, Founder and CEO of TKMG and TKMG Academy, appearing for the fifth time.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more
She is the author of books including The Outstanding Organization, Clarity First, and Value Stream Mapping.
In this episode, we discuss mistake-proofing in lean practices, exploring its significance in various industries. The conversation begins with a light-hearted discussion about the "five-timers club" and Mark's "ZERO hat" from the Patient Safety Movement Foundation, which symbolizes the goal of zero harm in healthcare.
Karen shares her extensive background in quality improvement and lean management systems, emphasizing the importance of building quality at the source. Drawing on the teachings of Dr. W. Edwards Deming and the Toyota Production System, Karen and Mark discuss the psychological impact of striving for zero harm, debating whether it is an inspiring goal or potentially demotivating.
The episode also explores real-world examples of organizations achieving zero harm and the cultural shifts required to reduce errors. Karen introduces the TKMG Academy and its comprehensive courses designed to enhance lean practices, including the new mistake-proofing course co-developed with Mark. Her passion for quality improvement and continuous learning shines through, offering listeners valuable insights into achieving operational excellence.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:Why is quality such a passion for you? Why did you want to add the mistake-proofing course to the TKMG Academy catalog? What are some common barriers to achieving zero harm in healthcare? How do you differentiate between mistakes and errors? How do you handle situations where the work system isn't at fault, but the individual continues to make mistakes? Can you tell us more about the "slow work" movement? What are your thoughts on final inspection versus quality at the source? How do you address the challenge of maintaining standards in training and process design? Could you elaborate on the spectrum of mistake-proofing from 100% prevention to error reduction? How does the TKMG Academy help organizations with continuous improvement?The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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I'm very happy to be participating in Jared Thatcher‘s “Global Lean Summit” event this September in Indiana.
I'll be there to network and learn, which includes time visiting a Toyota Material Handling factory (an entire day!)
I'll be speaking and facilitating:
A workshop on Psychological Safety as a Foundation for continuous improvementA learning session featuring Dr. Deming's “Red Bead Game“A fun keynote talk on warning signs and mistake-proofingLearn more and register
Here's a 13-minute conversation that I had with Jared about the event.
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My guest for Episode #509 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is Ankit Patel, the founder of My Business Care Team, a BPO company providing services for optometrists, and co-founder with his wife Classic Vision Care, an optometry group in Atlanta.
Episode page with transcript and more
With a strong background in Lean methodology, Ankit has worked as a Lean consultant at Dell and the Cleveland Clinic, driving process improvements and coaching executives.
He holds a Master's degree in Positive Organizational Development and a Bachelor's in Industrial Engineering.
Recognizing talent acquisition challenges, Ankit partnered with a Filipino team to source skilled, cost-effective staff for various business functions. He now leverages AI for hiring and automation to optimize his optometry practice and BPO services, applying Lean principles to drive efficiency and growth.
In this episode, Ankit shares insights from his journey, starting as a lean consultant at Dell and the Cleveland Clinic, and transitioning into optometry, where he focuses on building patient relationships and enhancing processes through lean principles and AI technology.
Mark and Ankit discuss the challenges and opportunities of integrating AI in business processes, the importance of positive organizational development, and how appreciative inquiry can drive team alignment and engagement. Ankit also highlights the role of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) in managing small businesses and improving training and development with AI tools, offering valuable lessons for anyone interested in continuous improvement and innovative approaches in healthcare and beyond.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:What is positive organizational development, and how did you come to study it? How did your experience at Cleveland Clinic influence your involvement in your current business? How do you balance focusing on optometry with the potential to expand into other medical practices? How do you prioritize where to use AI in your processes without falling into the trap of using it because it's trendy? Can you share an example of improving a process before thinking about automating it with AI? How rapidly is AI technology advancing, and how does that impact your ability to adjust its use in your business? How do you see AI tools facilitating faster PDCA or PDSA cycles in continuous improvement practices? What led you to the positive psychology approach, and how does it differ from traditional organizational development? How do you apply appreciative inquiry in your work, and what impact does it have on team alignment and engagement? Can you discuss the origin and growth of your new business involving AI and BPO for optometry? What role does EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) play in managing your business? How do you evaluate the effectiveness of training and development using AI tools? How do you communicate your practice's focus on building patient relationships in your marketing and branding?The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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My guest for Episode #508 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is Mike Hoseus, Executive Director of the Center for Quality People and Organizations and President of Lean Culture Enterprises.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more
He supports organizations in their lean journey, focusing on leadership and cultural aspects of the lean transformation. He is an adjunct professor with the University of Kentucky's Center for Manufacturing.
Michael Hoseus developed his TPS skills at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, where he worked at the General Manager level in both Production and Human Resources, being mentored by his Japanese sensei. His Toyota process experience includes production, engineering, maintenance, safety, personnel, employee relations, benefits/payroll and training and development.
He learned first-hand how Toyota's success hinges on integrating their production and human systems to create the Toyota Way.
He's co-author, with Jeff Liker, of Toyota Culture: The Heart and Soul of the Toyota Way — which received the Shingo Publication Award in 2009
In this episode, Mike shares his extensive experience with Toyota, where he developed his TPS skills at TMMK in Georgetown, Kentucky. We take a deep dive into key topics such as the importance of psychological safety in lean leadership, the origins of the andon cord, and how to build a high-performance culture.
Mike discusses his journey from Toyota to helping other organizations with lean transformation, emphasizing the critical role of leadership in fostering a culture of continuous improvement. He shares insights on problem identification and problem-solving, the significance of respect and trust, and the intentional development of a lean culture.
Join us for this engaging conversation with valuable lessons and stories from Mike's career. Don't miss out on the chance to learn from one of the leading experts in lean culture and transformation.
Mike is also organizing a Kentucky learning tour, “High-Performance Culture and Lean Leadership,” from October 15 to 17… I'll be there and am very much looking forward to it. Use code GRABAN to save $500.
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My guest for Episode #507 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is Wendy K. Smith, co-author of the book Both/And Thinking: Embracing Creative Tensions to Solve Your Toughest Problems. She’s also one of the keynote speakers at this year's AME (Association for Manufacturing Excellence) annual conference.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more
Enter to win a copy of the book!
Wendy is the Dana J. Johnson professor of management and faculty director of the Women’s Leadership Initiative at the Lerner College of Business and Economics, University of Delaware.
She earned her PhD in organizational behavior at Harvard Business School, where she began her intensive research on strategic paradoxes—how leaders and senior teams effectively respond to contradictory yet interdependent demands.
Working with executives globally, she has been a noted keynote speaker and teacher for audiences worldwide. Her research, published among the top journals in the field, has received numerous awards, including the Web of Science Highly Cited Research Award (2019, 2020, and 2021) for being among the one percent most-cited researchers in her field. Wendy lives in Philadelphia with her husband, three children, and the family dog.
In this episode, Wendy discusses strategic paradoxes and how leaders can effectively navigate contradictory yet interdependent demands. Our conversation covers practical examples from Lean Manufacturing and the Toyota Production System, highlighting how "both/and thinking" can lead to innovative solutions and improved performance. Wendy also shares the emotional and cognitive challenges of embracing paradoxes, offering insights into how organizations can create environments that support dynamic, integrative thinking. This episode is a deep dive into the nuances of leadership, organizational behavior, and the power of embracing complexity in problem-solving.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:What are strategic paradoxes? The need or opportunity to break paradoxes? Good examples of both/and thinking in different businesses? Origins in lean manufacturing Just-in-time but hold no inventory High quality but also super fast Focusing on both short-term and long-term? Opportunities for startups to exploit new both/and thinking? Process as a dirty word in startups? We can’t vs. we haven’t figured it out yet? Both/and focus on customers and employees? Connections to Amy Edmondson and Psychological Safety? The Dr. Brian Goldman TED Talk Give us a preview of your keynote talk for AME? A teaser…The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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In this live stream episode, host Mark Graban introduces a panel of experts discussing the upcoming Future of People at Work Symposium. The event is co-sponsored by nine organizations, including the Lean Enterprise Institute, GBMP Consulting Group, and the Shingo Institute. Panelists Josh Howell, Bruce Hamilton, and Ken Snyder share their perspectives on the symposium's goals, emphasizing the need to address the evolving workplace and workforce dynamics. They highlight the importance of focusing on people in the face of technological advancements and the necessity of fostering a collaborative environment to adapt to future challenges.
The panelists provide an overview of the symposium's structure, which will include interactive sessions focused on workplace evolution, technology integration, and supply chain transformation. Unlike traditional conferences, this event aims for active participation, encouraging attendees to engage in collaborative problem-solving.
The speakers stress the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration within the lean and improvement communities to address the ongoing changes in the work environment. The symposium, set to take place in Detroit on July 18 and 19, 2024, is presented as a crucial step in creating a more meaningful and effective future of work.
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My guest for Episode #506 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is Tim Hobbs, the founder and president of Hobbs Technical Consulting. He is an author and an in-demand international keynote speaker, trainer and business consultant. He is currently working in the semiconductor industry as a director of digital transformation.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more
Tim served nine years in the U.S. Navy, managing and maintaining advanced electronic navigational, alarm, combat, telecommunication and power systems. After his military service, he worked for Intel Corporation for 14 years.
He received a B.S. in business information systems and an M.B.A. in technology management and earned his Lean Six Sigma Blackbelt Certification.
Tim authored the book The Anatomy of Problem-Solving.
He'll also be one of the featured keynote speakers at the 40th anniversary of the AME International Conference (the Association for Manufacturing Excellence), being held in Atlanta, Georgia, from October 28 – October 31, 2024.
Enter a contest to win a free book and online course from Tim!
In this episode, Tim shares insights from his extensive career in the semiconductor industry, his journey through the US Navy, and his expertise in problem-solving. We discuss Tim's background, including his roles in digital transformation and Lean Six Sigma, and delve into his philosophy on critical thinking and structured problem-solving methods. Tim also previews his upcoming keynote at the conference, highlighting the importance of leveraging problem-solving for career success and organizational improvement. The conversation touches on his book, “The Anatomy of Problem Solving,” and an exciting book giveaway contest for our listeners. Tune in to gain valuable insights into effective problem-solving and strategic career advancement from an industry expert.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:Tell us about the start of your lean journey? Preview of your keynote talk? How do you combine frameworks and methodologies with critical thinking in problem-solving? Can you elaborate on organizational and political problem solving? Tell us about your online training program? What method are you using for problem-solving, and how did you develop it? What is the story behind your book, “The Anatomy of Problem Solving”? What approach do you recommend for dealing with team dynamics in problem solving? How do you position problem solving for upward mobility in a career? Can you explain the PIE (Performance, Image, Exposure) framework and its importance in career advancement? What strategies do you suggest for engaging with potential sponsors? How do you handle the human element in problem-solving, especially when dealing with different personalities? Tim's online training programThe podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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This is cross-posted from my Lean Blog Audio podcast series.
Episode page with links and more info
I'm very happy to announce the release of my new Mistake-Proofing course, available NOW through Karen Martin and TKMG Academy.
You can buy the course individually at TKMGAcademy.com for $129. Volume discounts are available for large teams or your entire workforce (for more information, email [email protected]).
The course is also part of the wonderful collection of courses in the all-access annual subscription. The annual price of $529 goes up significantly at 11:59 pm CDT on May 31st, so act now for the best value pricing.
Other TKMG Academy instructors in the series include Karen Martin, Elisabeth Swan, Mike Osterling, Tracy O'Rourke, Brent Loescher... and more.
And if you subscribe to TKMG Academy, you can participate in Karen's "Community of Practice" meeting with me on Wednesday, June 26th.
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My guest for Episode #505 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is Art Byrne, who was a guest back in Episode 158 about 12 years ago — we discussed his book The Lean Turnaround.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more: https://leanblog.org/505
Today, we’re discussing his new book, The Lean Turnaround Answer Book, an edited compilation of his “Ask Art” columns published by the Lean Enterprise Institute.
Art Byrne has been implementing Lean strategy in various U.S.-based manufacturing and service companies, such as Danaher Corporation, for more than 30 years, including The Wiremold Company, which he ran for 11 years. He retired as an Operating Partner at the private equity firm J. W. Childs Associates L.P.
In this episode, Art revisits the podcast after twelve years to discuss his new book, The Lean Turnaround Answer Book, an edited compilation of his "Ask Art" columns from the Lean Enterprise Institute website. Art shares his extensive experience implementing lean strategies across various industries, including his notable work with Wiremold and his role in private equity at JW Childs Associates. The conversation also covers Art's motivations for writing his books and his continuous efforts to disseminate lean knowledge, addressing the practical challenges and questions that arise in Lean implementations.
Art elaborates on the essence of Lean principles, emphasizing the need for a fundamental shift in organizational philosophy and strategy. He recounts his experiences in transforming companies through Lean methodologies, including detailed anecdotes about reducing setup times, managing inventory, and improving operational efficiency. Art highlights the significant impact of lean on organizational performance, customer service, and financial health. The discussion also touches on the challenges of aligning traditional cost accounting with lean practices and the importance of engaging the finance department in the lean journey. Overall, Art's insights offer a comprehensive guide to Lean implementation, reinforced by real-world examples and practical advice.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:Tell us about the book and how this one came to be… Cost accounting and inventory? Orry Fiume - “Real Numbers” book The strategic value of setup reduction? How was Lean utilized in your private equity work? How was your role different as a PE partner? Looking for companies with a certain Lean potential? What factors are you looking for? Best Lean turnaround story? More likely a smaller PE company than a large public company? But Lean is not the default management approach for manufacturing? Higher than 10 years ago? Boeing - did they forget what Shingujitsu taught them? The problems caused by “make the month”The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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My guest for Episode #504 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is Katie Anderson, author of the book Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more
In this episode, Katie takes the reins along with me, Mark Graban, to discuss the transformative journey of Japan Study Trips. Recognized globally for its rich contributions to modern business practices, Japan has long been a beacon for leadership and continuous improvement. But how can one experience this powerful journey?
Strong leadership is integral to sustaining a culture of improvement. During these trips, participants get to hear from individuals like Katie Anderson, known for her insightful book "Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn." Engaging with thought leaders deepens their understanding of the continuous learning process while expanding their networks. Not only they learn about the principles, they also meet and engage with their pioneers reflecting the deep connection between leadership and continuous learning.
These discussion illuminates the importance of a culture where mistakes are seen as stepping stones to innovation. Personal engagements with companies recognized for their Lean practices reaffirm the significance of 'being over doing,' making these trips a true journey of transformation and discovery.
Questions, Links, Notes, and Highlights:Learn more about Katie's November trip that I'm a part of Mark's website about Japan Tour How can we shift focus from doing to being in order to create a culture where better results and output are achieved? What role does continuous learning play in creating and fostering cultures of improvement and growth? How do leaders in organizations prioritize being over doing to cultivate a mindset and culture of learning and improvement? What are some common production principles and tools observed on shop floors, and how do they align with overall cultural objectives? What are the behaviors that need to become standard across an organization to create a culture of kindness, constructive response, and continuous improvement? How can leaders in various organizations and industries cultivate a mindset and culture of learning and improvement similar to those seen at Toyota? What role does sharing knowledge, stories, and experiences play in enhancing learning and strengthening connections within an organization or across industries? How do mistakes and constructive responses to them contribute to shaping a culture focused on learning and growth?The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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My guest for Episode #503 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is Sam Morgan of Illuminate Coaching + Consulting. He was previously a guest in Episode #457.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more
Today's episode was originally live-streamed on April 9th... Sam's. been doing a livestream series on "Lean Coaching for Lean Coaches." So, in today's episode, you'll hear Sam coaching me... and then we'll have a broader conversation about the work that he's doing. We can all use a coach!
We embark on a deep dive into creating and harnessing a culture of continuous improvement and Lean in various industries, especially within the healthcare sector. The episode unfolds the role of Lean coaching and the evolution of continuous improvement to meet the current business dynamics.
Mark and Sam engage in a discussion on the intersection of psychological safety and effective continuous improvement. They discuss how creating an environment that facilitates incident reporting without fear of reprisal can lead to reduced adverse events, particularly in high-stakes industries like healthcare. This conversation serves as a guide for leaders to understand the importance of building a culture where openness is promoted, and trust leads to real-world enhancements.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:Going full time - leaving The Standard? Entrepreneurial experiments? People being coached in live format... and people watching?The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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My guest for Episode #502 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is DeWayne Allen, an executive, speaker, and workshop facilitator.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more
DeWayne is a results-driven executive with over 20 years of experience, renowned for leveraging a solid engineering and operations background to propel growth for Fortune 500 organizations.
As a visionary leader, DeWayne excels in crafting and executing strategic plans to deliver desired outcomes. With a proven track record in fostering relationships and adeptly managing cross-functional teams, DeWayne ensures seamless alignment of internal operations with overarching business objectives.
He is also a trusted advisor to C-suite executives for strategic decision-making.
DeWayne is dedicated to empowering 1000+ Black leaders to become influential corporate executives through STEM education, fostering diversity, equity, and innovation.
In this episode, we discuss how industrial engineering principles can be harnessed into strategic corporate leadership. Allen, who began his career as an engineer, spotlights his use of Six Sigma, lean methodologies, and continuous improvement tactics to tackle modern business challenges, from corporate turnarounds to driving growth. His success in transitioning into business-oriented roles, executing lean success in dynamic environments, and managing diverse operational aspects as a general manager add to his rich collection of professional experiences.
Moreover, Allen's innovative application of lean methodologies to the hectic process of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) demonstrate his knack for using these principles regardless of context. And his view on incorporating lean management within nonprofits signals a broader utility for these principles outside of just manufacturing or profit-centered entities. In light of Allen's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), he champions the integration of these ethical and social values with lean principles for greater operational excellence. Join us and delve deeper into the workings of DeWayne Allen's lean philosophy and powerful leadership style.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:What's your Lean origin story?As a leader, helping everybody feel like and work like ONE TEAM?Becoming a formal leader — steps to work up to being a GM?What are some of your favorite stories or examples of using Lean throughout your career?You've worked as General Manager — The split of your time and attention? What was your view of Lean in that role and what you learned there?Tell us about applying Lean in Mergers and Acquisitions work? Can you make that a process?Tell us about your work in the Non-profit space – National Society of Black Engineers, applying it there?The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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My guest for Episode #501 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is Marcia Daszko, a speaker, workshop facilitator, and consultant.
For more than 25 years, she has passionately been speaking, consulting, and guiding executive teams in Fortune 500/private corporations; education, the U.S. Navy; and non-profits to achieve exponential success.
Mentored by Dr. W. Edwards Deming, she is nominated for the International Deming Prize; and writes a leadership column for the Silicon Valley Business Journal. She has taught MBA classes at six universities.
Marcia's author of the book Pivot Disrupt Transform: How Leaders Beat the Odds and Survive. She was also co-author of Turning Ideas into Impact: Insights from 16 Silicon Valley Consultants.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:How did you get connected to W. Edwards Deming?What was it like spending time with Dr. Deming? Not just statistics? Challenging ideas like performance appraisals“Change management is another management fad”Tell us more about the consulting work that you've done and do?“Identify your problems accurately to problem-solve”??Helping leaders with “Accelerate efficient, effective data-driven decision-making”??Accountability and responsibility — big differenceAm I blaming executives unfairly???3 Fundamental Business Strategies?“Hope is not a business strategy”Continual vs. Continuous?The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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Episode page with transcript and more
My guest for Episode #500 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is me, your usual host Mark Graban. Today, I'm mixing up the format with a solo episode that celebrates 500 episodes over almost 18 years.
I'll share some of the origin story and history of the podcast. You'll hear clips from Episode 1 (with Norm Bodek) and Episode 50 (where Jamie Flinchbaugh asked me about getting started). You'll also hear a clip from a recent conversation where Barry McCarthy, of AME Australia, asked me about persisting with podcasting all these years.
Thanks for listening, whether this is your first time, you've listened to them all, or somewhere in between!
The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
Notes and Highlights:More than 500 episodes in 921 weeks, a little more than one every two weeks for 17.75 years3,276,745 total downloads / listens, although I'm not convinced the stats are 100% consistentThe top 10 most downloaded episodesThe most frequent guests (#1 is Norman Bodek with 14 episodes)One anonymous guestWhere listeners are fromThe origin story and the intro to Episode #1A clip from Episode #50My reflections on the clunky podcast nameA shift over time from “big names” to highlighting new faces and their storiesThe one time I forgot to record!In memoriam: guests who have passed away -
My guest for Episode #499 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is James P. Womack. Jim really needs no introduction for this audience, he's the founder of the Lean Enterprise Institute (in 1987) and remains a senior advisor to them.
Episode page with transcript and more
In the late eighties, he and Dan Jones led MIT's International Motor Vehicle Research Program (IMVP), which introduced the term “lean” to describe Toyota's revolutionary management system.
Based on that research, Womack coauthored The Machine That Changed the World (Macmillan/Rawson Associates, 1990), Lean Thinking (Simon & Schuster, 1996), Lean Solutions (Simon & Schuster, 2005), and Seeing the Whole Value Stream (Lean Enterprise Institute, 2011).
Jim was really gracious and helpful to me in being an early guest on this podcast, going back to Episode 12 in late 2006 when we talked about Lean in China. Today is his 8th appearance on the podcast: 7 times solo and once last September as part of a group that did a post-game show with me after the GE Lean Mindset event.
I've seen and talked with Jim many times over the past decade, so it's totally my fault that I haven't had him on since 2011. When I asked him to come back to help celebrate 500 episodes, he quickly agreed — and I'll have him back again much sooner than this last gap between appearances.
In today's episode, Jim shares reflections and stories on a number of companies, countries, and topics, including:
China and VietnamGM, Toyota, Boeing, Danaher, Rivian, and TesaAnd he answers some questions that were suggested by LinkedIn commenters.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:I think listeners would love to know what keeps you busy these days in the world of Lean?Planet Lean – celebrating 10 yearsA few people asked: How can we influence a union to start embracing Lean, when the union at our company has been actively against it from the start?Lean in China – almost 18 years ago episode – Ep 12 — Thoughts on how things have evolved?Has Tesla ever invited you to visit their gemba?Which companies does he consider to be Lean exemplars in the United States?What do you think we, as a Lean community, could/should do better?Read Ed Schein's Organizational Culture and LeadershipDid you ever meet Dr. Deming?The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This episode is also brought to you by “The Optimistic Outlook,” hosted by Barbara Humpton, CEO of Siemens USA. This podcast is a hub for those passionate about transformative concepts that shape both our workplaces and our world. Find it in your favorite podcast app.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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My guest for Episode #498 of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is Jeffrey K. Liker. Jeff is Professor Emeritus from the University of Michigan, President of Liker Lean Advisors, and author of the great books in the Toyota Way series.
Episode page with video, transcript, and more
He was previously a guest here in Episodes 3, 4, 37, 39, 41, 111, and 400.
Today, we have a discussion centered around learning from mistakes in the context of Toyota and lean methodologies. The episode delves into the significance of recognizing, reacting to, and learning from mistakes within organizations that employ Toyota Production System (TPS) or lean strategies. Jeff shares his insights on how Toyota's culture of continuous improvement and learning from errors fundamentally drives its success. The conversation touches on Toyota's approach to leadership and problem-solving, emphasizing the structured response to mistakes at different levels of the organization, from the factory floor to top management.
The episode further explores the Toyota leadership model, illustrating how leaders at various levels are expected to react when mistakes occur. Liker explains the role of the andon cord system in facilitating immediate problem identification and resolution, showcasing Toyota's commitment to quality and efficiency. He elaborates on the multi-layered leadership response to errors, detailing the responsibilities of team leaders, group leaders, and higher management in fostering a culture of learning and improvement. The discussion underscores the importance of a systemic approach to problem-solving, where the focus is on understanding and addressing the root causes of mistakes rather than attributing blame to individuals. This episode offers valuable insights into the principles of lean leadership and the critical role of acknowledging and learning from mistakes in achieving organizational excellence and innovation.
Questions, Notes, and Highlights:How you'd expect Toyota leaders to react to a mistake on the factory floor?Less likely to blame an individual? Root cause vs. controllable cause?That can be a tough lesson to teach other companies?Hardest habit to break is the blame habit?Mistakes people make in trying to help change behaviorWhat's necessary, in another company's workplace culture, for people to feel safe pulling the andon cord or speaking up?Article about the Ford plant and andon cords in 2007Jeff insights on that Dearborn plantThe mention of psychological safety in “Toyota Culture”?What do you think of the phrase “psychological safety”? Or just the concept of it?Fujio Cho – biggest surprise was that TMMK workers were afraid to pull the andon cordNew book: Engaging the Team at Zingerman's Mail OrderThe podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. With a track record of success spanning over 30 years, it's been the trusted partner for the manufacturing, private equity, and healthcare sectors. Learn more.
This episode is also brought to you by “The Optimistic Outlook,” hosted by Barbara Humpton, CEO of Siemens USA. This podcast is a hub for those passionate about transformative concepts that shape both our workplaces and our world. Find it in your favorite podcast app.
This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
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