The Lean Solutions Podcast
This podcast offers business solutions to help listeners develop and implement action plans for lean process improvement and implement continuous improvement projects, cost reductions, product quality enhancements, and process effectiveness improvement. Listeners come from many industries in both manufacturing and office applications.
S4 E16 · Tue, April 22, 2025
Sustaining Culture and Connection
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Catherine McDonald, Andy Olrich, and guest Leire Martinez discuss the importance of sustaining culture and connection in organizations. They emphasize that culture is crucial for continuous improvement and can vary across different departments and regions. About the Guest: With a strong Lean Six Sigma background, she is experienced as an Operations Director managing multi-site operations, as well as a Plant Manager, Production Manager, and Continuous Improvement Manager in the automotive sector within a VUCA environment and during challenging periods such as COVID, the chip crisis, and material shortages. Her aim is to inspire the teams she works with to achieve results as one, always acting with integrity, a willingness to win, and a commitment to making tomorrow better. Links: Click Here For Leire Martinez LinkedIn
S4 E15 · Tue, April 15, 2025
The Role of Frontline Leaders
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh, Catherine McDonald, and guest Sebastian McLeod, discuss the importance of frontline leaders in driving organizational change. Sebastian McLeod, CEO of TrippNT, shares his company's journey from a basement startup to an industry leader, emphasizing the significance of frontline workers and the impact of Lean principles. About the Guest: Sebastian McLeod, CEO of TrippNT, transformed the company from a basement startup into an award-winning industry leader recognized by Inc. Magazine since 2014. A U.S. Army veteran, he leverages his background in discipline and efficiency to streamline operations and foster innovation. Known for his respectful, problem-solving leadership style, Sebastian has built a global client base with customizable, efficiency-driven products. In 2018, he received the Made in Missouri Leadership Award for Manufacturer of the Year . Links: CLICK HERE FOR TRIPPNT LINKEDIN CLICK HERE FOR TRIPPNT FACEBOOK CLICK HERE FOR TRIPPNT INSTAGRAM CLICK HERE FOR TRIPPNT WEBSITE
S4 E14 · Tue, April 08, 2025
From Culture to Capability
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh, Patrick Adams, and guest Micki Vandeloo, discuss the transition from a learning culture to actual capability in organizations. They highlight the importance of applying learning to real-world applications and the role of leadership in fostering this culture. About the Guest: Micki is the President of Lakeview Consulting, Inc., leading a team of five grant professionals who have secured over $220 million in funding for nonprofit and for-profit clients. Specializing in the manufacturing and trade association foundation sectors, Lakeview provides grant research, readiness, and writing services. With over 15 years of grant consulting experience and 25 years in manufacturing, Micki’s engineering and business background strengthens her expertise. She has personally obtained over $70 million in grants and authored THE For-Profit Grant Writing Guide in 2014. A former chair of the Grant Professionals Foundation Board and past president of the St. Louis Grant Professionals Association Chapter, she also volunteers for her church, school, and a nonprofit supporting sight-impaired individuals. Links: Click Here For Micki Vandloo LinkedIn
S4 E13 · Tue, April 01, 2025
Courage and Vulnerability
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh, Andy Olrich, and guest Royden Johnson, discuss the importance of vulnerability and courage in leadership. Royden Johnson emphasized the need for leaders to move from imitation to differentiation to embrace vulnerability effectively. About the Guest: Royden Johnson is a distinguished manufacturing leader with extensive experience spanning diverse industries, including automotive sectors. As a Six Sigma Black Belt, he brings a robust expertise in operational excellence and continuous improvement. Royden has a proven track record of driving efficiency and innovation, enhancing performance, and delivering sustainable results across complex manufacturing environments. Links: Click Here For Royden Johnsons' LinkedIn
S4 E12 · Tue, March 25, 2025
The Power of Curiosity
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams, Catherine McDonald, and guest Vince Lanni, discuss the power of curiosity in business improvement. Vince, a restaurant consultant, emphasizes the importance of curiosity in problem-solving and team engagement. About the Guest: Vince helps bars and restaurants make more money, faster — guaranteed. After a successful career opening and improving some of the most prominent bars on Broadway in Nashville, he launched his consulting business to help even more people in the restaurant industry implement strategies that boost productivity and profit. Links: www.linkedin.com/in/vince-lanni
S4 E11 · Tue, March 18, 2025
The Sweet Spot
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh, Catherine McDonald, and guest Patrick Gaughan discuss the balance of structure and creativity in continuous improvement. They emphasize the importance of leadership, data-driven decision-making, and empowering employees through rapid improvement workshops. About the Guest: With 33 years of experience at a Fortune 100 company, he held various leadership roles in Engineering Management, Supply Chain, and Quality. His work spanned continuous manufacturing improvements, global MES deployment strategy, and Lean Six Sigma methodologies. As the first Lean Six Sigma Black Belt in his Business Unit in 1996, he trained professionals worldwide and led over 50 rapid improvement workshops, influencing hundreds more. His focus was on plant, process, and product design, with a strong emphasis on root cause analysis. He developed an automation tool that reduced cycle times from 3.5 days to 5 seconds, solidifying his belief in the power of data. Throughout his career, he received numerous corporate accolades, including multiple Meritorious Achievement awards. One of his most impactful projects involved leading a team in India to transform a 36-hour manual process into a fully automated 90-minute system, which became a global standard. Links: Click Here For Patrick Gaughan LinkedIn Click Here For Axiom Manufacturing Systems LinkedIn
S4 E10 · Tue, March 11, 2025
The Process Perspective
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams, Andy Olrich, and guest Adam Lawrence discuss the importance of focusing on people first in process optimization, while emphasizing the need to engage and empower employees. About the Guest: Adam Lawrence, the creator of the Wheel of Sustainability, is the Managing Partner of Process Improvement Partners, LLC. He has decades of experience in process improvement, targeted at manufacturing and business processes. Having facilitated hundreds of Kaizen events in multiple industries around the world, Adam aligns with leadership, engages teams, and creates sustainable results. Adam has mastered the use of many different process improvement methodologies, allowing him to implement the best strategy for each organization’s goals and objectives. He develops sessions that are fun, engaging, results-oriented, and laser-focused. Adam is 100 percent committed to ensuring the team has a winning result and a fantastic experience. Married to his wonderful wife, Peggy, for over 30 years, they have one son (Tyler, his IT department). Adam grew up in the Washington, DC area and received his BS in Industrial Engineering from Virginia Tech. He earned Lean certifications from the University of Michigan. Adam enjoys time with family and friends, loud music, traveling, the many great clients he has worked with (his extended family), and his many business adventures. Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-t-lawrence https://www.linkedin.com/company/process-improvement-partners-llc https://www.youtube.com/@kaizenninja
S4 E9 · Tue, March 04, 2025
People First, Always
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, host Shane Daughenbaugh, and guest Matt Singh discuss the importance of putting people first in Lean Six Sigma transformations. They emphasize the need for leadership to lead by example, provide support, and create a culture where employees feel valued. About the Guest: Matt is a Senior Project Manager at Children's Nebraska. Prior to that he spent 8 years as the director of operational excellence and master black belt for the Department of Administrative Services in the state of Nebraska. Over the last 20 years, he has served in a variety of progressive management roles, including sales and service operations and supply chain. He is certified as a master black belt in Six Sigma as well as a master black belt in Lean Six Sigma. Additionally, he is certified as a Lean Sensei and holds the Project Management Professional or PMP credential. Matt completed his MBA from Doane University and Masters of Science in Leadership from University of Nebraska- Lincoln. He is also the focus of several articles and books on process improvement including a case study from Harvard's executive education program. Links: Click Here for Matthew Singh LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn
S4 E8 · Tue, February 25, 2025
Respect for People in Lean Leadership
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, host Patrick Adams, Shane Daughenbaugh, and guest Scott Gauvin discuss how the principle of "respect for people" goes beyond individual actions to become an organizational-wide practice that fosters culture transformation, engagement, and continuous improvement. They explore strategies for leaders to cultivate a learning culture, emphasizing active listening, transparency, and coaching to develop human skills and create lasting change within organizations. About the Guest: Scott Gauvin is a management consultant and Lean specialist with 30 years of experience helping organizations transform the way they perceive and pursue performance. As CEO of Macresco and co-founder of the Respect for People Roadmap, he’s partnered with organizations worldwide and across industries to innovate their business and operating models and put people at the center of their corporate and operations strategies. Links: THE RESPECT FOR PEOPLE ROAD - WEBSITE CLICK HERE FOR SCOTT GAUVIN LINKEDIN Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn
S4 E7 · Tue, February 18, 2025
The Changing Landscape of Leadership
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Catherine McDonald and Andy Olrich discuss the evolution of Lean over the past decade, emphasizing the shift from a tool-focused approach to a more human-centric, culturally embedded practice. They highlight the importance of adaptability, technology integration, and continuous improvement. About the Hosts: Catherine McDonald is a Lean and Leadership Coach. Her work involves training and coaching executives and teams in organizations of all types and sizes. In 2018, Catherine started her own business- MCD Consulting where she works as a Lean and Leadership Coach. She specializes in Lean deployment in non-manufacturing industries, including food, retail, education, non-profit, health care, event management, hospitality and media. Andy Olrich brings over 25 years of expertise in engineering trades, services, manufacturing, mining, and logistics processes and support. With qualifications in Continuous Improvement and LEAN Six Sigma, he is also a Certified Scrum Master. Andy finds fulfillment in witnessing the positive outcomes that result from teams collaboratively working towards shared and individual goals. Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn
S4 E6 · Tue, February 11, 2025
Preparing for Tomorrow
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh and Catherine McDonald discuss the future of Lean leadership by, emphasizing the need for adaptability, flexibility, and a growth mindset. They highlight the importance of intellectual humility, global citizenship, and ethical and social responsibility. About the Hosts: Catherine McDonald is a Lean and Leadership Coach. Her work involves training and coaching executives and teams in organizations of all types and sizes. In 2018, Catherine started her own business- MCD Consulting where she works as a Lean and Leadership Coach. She specializes in Lean deployment in non-manufacturing industries, including food, retail, education, non-profit, health care, event management, hospitality and media. Shayne Daughenbaugh is a seasoned Process Improvement Project Manager with over 5 years of experience at the State of Nebraska, holding the distinction of a Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. They specialize in leading successful organizational change and implementing lean process improvement strategies, focusing on streamlining efforts and enhancing efficiency. With a strong background in operations management and lighting efficiency, Shayne's expertise extends beyond the professional realm, encompassing a decade-long commitment as a Pastor, demonstrating versatile skills in mentorship and strategic planning. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn
S4 E5 · Tue, February 04, 2025
What is Government Efficiency?
What You’ll Learn In this episode, host Patrick Adams and Shane Daughenbaugh discuss Senator Ricketts' address to Congress on government efficiency, highlighting the transformative impact of Lean and Six Sigma. About the Hosts: Shayne Daughenbaugh is a seasoned Process Improvement Project Manager with over 5 years of experience at the State of Nebraska, holding the distinction of a Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. They specialize in leading successful organizational change and implementing lean process improvement strategies, focusing on streamlining efforts and enhancing efficiency. With a strong background in operations management and lighting efficiency, Shayne's expertise extends beyond the professional realm, encompassing a decade-long commitment as a Pastor, demonstrating versatile skills in mentorship and strategic planning. Patrick Adams is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment. Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Links: Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn
S4 E4 · Tue, January 28, 2025
Building a Fail-Forward Culture
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams and Andy Olrich discuss the importance of a "fail-forward" culture, where failures are seen as opportunities for learning rather than setbacks. They emphasize the need for leaders to model vulnerability, focus on learning rather than blame, and establish clear boundaries. About the Hosts: Andy Olrich brings over 25 years of expertise in engineering trades, services, manufacturing, mining, and logistics processes and support. With qualifications in Continuous Improvement and LEAN Six Sigma, he is also a Certified Scrum Master. Andy finds fulfillment in witnessing the positive outcomes that result from teams collaboratively working towards shared and individual goals. Patrick Adams is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant, and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team-building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment. Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small businesses to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best-selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Links: Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn
S4 E1 · Tue, January 21, 2025
Learning From the Trenches
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Catherine McDonald and Shayne Daughenbaugh discuss reframing workplace failures as opportunities for growth. They emphasize the importance of viewing failures as experiments and learning experiences, rather than negative events. About the Hosts: Catherine McDonald is a Lean and Leadership Coach. Her work involves training and coaching executives and teams in organizations of all types and sizes. In 2018, Catherine started her own business- MCD Consulting where she works as a Lean and Leadership Coach. She specializes in Lean deployment in non-manufacturing industries, including food, retail, education, non-profit, health care, event management, hospitality and media. Shayne Daughenbaugh is a seasoned Process Improvement Project Manager with over 5 years of experience at the State of Nebraska, holding the distinction of a Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. They specialize in leading successful organizational change and implementing lean process improvement strategies, focusing on streamlining efforts and enhancing efficiency. With a strong background in operations management and lighting efficiency, Shayne's expertise extends beyond the professional realm, encompassing a decade-long commitment as a Pastor, demonstrating versatile skills in mentorship and strategic planning. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn
S4 E2 · Tue, January 14, 2025
Rethinking Failure
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, host Patrick Adams and Catherine McDonald as they discuss the importance of reframing failure as a learning opportunity rather than a negative event. About the Hosts: Catherine McDonald is a Lean and Leadership Coach. Her work involves training and coaching executives and teams in organizations of all types and sizes. In 2018, Catherine started her own business- MCD Consulting where she works as a Lean and Leadership Coach. She specializes in Lean deployment in non-manufacturing industries, including food, retail, education, non-profit, health care, event management, hospitality and media. Patrick Adams is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment.Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn
S4 E1 · Thu, January 09, 2025
Season 4 -LinkedIn LIVE
What You’ll Learn: Join the Lean Solutions host in this live podcast as the discuss the relevance of Lean in 2025, highlighting its continued importance despite rapid technological advancements. About the Hosts: Andy Olrich brings over 25 years of expertise in engineering trades, services, manufacturing, mining and logistics processes and support. With qualifications in Continuous Improvement and LEAN Six Sigma, he is also a Certified Scrum Master. Andy finds fulfillment in witnessing the positive outcomes that result from teams collaboratively working towards shared and individual goals. Shayne Daughenbaugh is a seasoned Process Improvement Project Manager with over 5 years of experience at the State of Nebraska, holding the distinction of a Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. They specialize in leading successful organizational change and implementing lean process improvement strategies, focusing on streamlining efforts and enhancing efficiency. With a strong background in operations management and lighting efficiency, Shayne's expertise extends beyond the professional realm, encompassing a decade-long commitment as a Pastor, demonstrating versatile skills in mentorship and strategic planning. Catherine McDonald is a Lean and Leadership Coach. Her work involves training and coaching executives and teams in organizations of all types and sizes. In 2018, Catherine started her own business- MCD Consulting where she works as a Lean and Leadership Coach. She specializes in Lean deployment in non-manufacturing industries, including food, retail, education, non-profit, health care, event management, hospitality and media. Patrick Adams is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment.Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn
S3 E52 · Tue, December 31, 2024
People First: The Soft Skills Advantage
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams and Andy Olrich discuss the importance of soft skills in leadership, emphasizing empathy, communication, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. About the Guest: Andy Olrich brings over 25 years of expertise in engineering trades, services, manufacturing, mining and logistics processes and support. With qualifications in Continuous Improvement and LEAN Six Sigma, he is also a Certified Scrum Master. Andy finds fulfillment in witnessing the positive outcomes that result from teams collaboratively working towards shared and individual goals. Patrick Adams is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment.Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Links: Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn
S3 E51 · Tue, December 24, 2024
Lean Forward, A Time of Gratitude and Growth
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, host Patrick Adams, Shayne Daughenbaugh, Catherine McDonald, and Andy Olrich, dive into the year’s most watched and liked episodes, reflecting on the impactful conversations and memorable moments that resonated with their audience. From industry insights and expert interviews, they look back at all the highlights that defined season 3. The hosts also look into what the new year will bring, including exciting new guests, fresh topics, and innovative approaches. Next Season: Kick off the new year by joining all four hosts from season 3 on a LinkedIn Live event. Join them on January 7th at 2pm EST to discuss the 2025 plans and get listener feedback. Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn
S3 E50 · Tue, December 17, 2024
Connections Between Habit Science and Continuous Improvement
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, host Patrick Adams and guest Greg Jacobson, CEO of KaiNexus, discusses the importance of habit science in leadership and continuous improvement. Greg emphasizes the role of identity, habit loops, and the basal ganglia in forming habits. About the Guest: Dr. Greg Jacobson is the CEO and Co-founder of KaiNexus. Passionate about addressing operational inefficiencies, Greg leverages his extensive background in emergency medicine and process improvement to develop software to drive innovation and improvement in every industry. Outside of KaiNexus, Greg continues to practice medicine by taking on occasional shifts in the ER. He enjoys quality time with his wife, daughter, and two Labrador Retrievers and finds relaxation in playing the guitar and running. Links: Click Here For Greg Jacobson LinkedIn Click Here For Greg Jacobson Website Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn
S3 E49 · Tue, December 10, 2024
Developing New Leaders and Managers That WIN
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, host Patrick Adams, Catherine McDonald, and guest Craig Coyle discuss the relevance of lean and continuous improvement for future leaders. Coyle emphasizes the importance of leadership development, noting that 70% of workforce engagement is influenced by first-line supervisors. About the Guest: Craig Coyle is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy and former U.S. Army Apache Pilot, Craig is no stranger to leadership in complex and demanding environments. After 8 years of active-duty service spanning across the globe, his passion for leadership and developing leaders led him to leave the military and found Operation Lead. Now he shares his message on leader development across the country and helps manufacturers activate their organizations so they can go from surviving to thriving. Links: Click Here For Operation Lead Website Click Here For Craig Coyle's LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn
S3 E48 · Tue, December 03, 2024
Advancing Continuous Improvement in Africa
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, host Patrick Adams, Shayne Daughenbaugh, and guest Royden Johnson discuss the global adaptability of Lean principles, emphasizing its core values of customer focus and respect for people. About the Guest: Royden Johnson is a distinguished manufacturing leader with extensive experience spanning diverse industries, including automotive sectors. As a Six Sigma Black Belt, he brings a robust expertise in operational excellence and continuous improvement. Royden has a proven track record of driving efficiency and innovation, enhancing performance, and delivering sustainable results across complex manufacturing environments. Links: Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn Click Here For Royden Johnsons' LinkedIn
S3 E47 · Tue, November 26, 2024
Show Me Excellence Summit
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, host Patrick Adams discusses the importance of continuous improvement using the analogy of climbing Mount Everest, emphasizing preparation, teamwork, and simplicity. About the Host: Patrick Adams is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment.Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Links: Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams' Book
S3 E46 · Tue, November 19, 2024
OPTICS - The Intersection Of People & Process To Accelerate Performance
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Andy Olrich, Catherine McDonald, and guest Ryan Weiss discuss Ryan's Optics System, which aligns people and processes for enhanced organizational performance. The system uses a five-step process: identifying the work stream, understanding its purpose, scope, and gaps, creating a SIPOC (Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, Customers) framework, defining quality, value, and speed expectations, and establishing an accountability and responsibility matrix (ARM). About the Guest: Ryan is a former global executive with experience leading large multinational teams (180+), managing a global chemical technology portfolio ($500M), and living in multiple countries (Singapore, Philippines, USA). He left the corporate world in 2016 to become an entrepreneur for a second time. Since the founding of EPS, his team has created the OPTIC(S)(TM) system, developed a software platform to enable the system, launched a #1 Amazon best seller, and interviewed nearly 100 business leaders on his podcast OPTICS in Action! Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Ryan Weiss Linkedin Click Here For Ryan Weiss Website Click Here For Ryan Weiss Book
S3 E45 · Tue, November 12, 2024
Developing a Culture of Continuous Improvement
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams and Andy Olrich discuss the challenges and strategies for developing a culture of continuous improvement. About the Host: Andy Olrich brings over 25 years of expertise in engineering trades, services, manufacturing, mining and logistics processes and support. With qualifications in Continuous Improvement and LEAN Six Sigma, he is also a Certified Scrum Master. Andy finds fulfillment in witnessing the positive outcomes that result from teams collaboratively working towards shared and individual goals. Patrick Adams is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment.Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Links: Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn
S3 E44 · Tue, November 05, 2024
The Importance of Effective Communication in a Lean Organization
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Andy Olrich, Catherine McDonald, and guest Lesley Worthington discuss the importance of effective communication in Lean management and workplace communication. They highlight how clear, respectful communication can make or break Lean initiatives, using personal anecdotes and examples. About the Guest: Lesley combines 20 years of quality and regulatory experience, her university degrees in psychology and law, and thousands of hours of teaching and coaching. Her training as an executive coach provides her clients with the skills, techniques, insights, and mindset that raise their confidence. Lesley helps clients take their communication skills to the next level and allows them to have a positive impact on their organizations. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Lesley Worthington’s LinkedIn
S3 E43 · Tue, October 29, 2024
Helping Local Government Leaders "Manage Meteors"
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh, Catherine McDonald, and guest Shane Silsby discuss the difficulties of managing limited resources in local government, such as budget constraints and public input, compared to the private sector's focus on profit. Silsby emphasized the importance of efficient procurement and leveraging technology to improve service delivery. About the Guest: Shane Silsby has 25 years of experience in strategic planning, public policy, organizational development, and major infrastructure projects. His career includes executive leadership roles in the private sector and government, with his last public role as Director of Orange County Public Works. As CEO of Silsby Strategic Advisors, he helps public agencies solve complex challenges, including federal funding strategies. Silsby holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from Michigan State University, is a member of the American Public Works Association's national government affairs committee, and is the author of "Managing for Meteors."
S3 E42 · Wed, October 23, 2024
Simple. Visual. Continuous.
In this episode, Patrick talks about the importance of good leadership and how you can do small things to create the right culture within your organization. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Why you need to keep things simple instead of complex The 3 points to keeping it simple The importance of keeping a clear vision of where you are heading Why you need to keep it visual The 3 main points to keeping it visual About the Patrick: Patrick Adams is the author of the best selling and Shingo-award winning book “Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap” and the host of The Lean Solutions Podcast. He is an international speaker, coach, and consultant. He is also a University Lecturer for the #1 Supply Chain Undergraduate Program at the University of Arkansas. Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He's worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profits, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion dollar corporations. Patrick is a proven leader and highly experienced consultant with specific niche focus on organizational strategy and leadership development which brings a unique human approach to sound team-building practices; creating consensus and enabling empowerment. He motivates, inspires, and drives the right results at all points in business processes. Links: Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn
S3 E30 · Tue, October 15, 2024
Is It Safe For Your Employees To Fail?
In this throwback episode, Patrick Adams dives into the topic of failure. He shares one of his favorite books, It's Your Ship: Management Techniques from the Best Damn Ship in the Navy by former Navy Commander Michael Abrashoff, which tells a powerful story of organizational transformation and innovative leadership. He also explores the decision-making and calculated risks needed to build a culture of continuous improvement.
S3 E40 · Tue, October 08, 2024
Fuel the Fire of Continuous Improvement
What You’ll Learn: In this throwback episode, Patrick talks about the ingredients necessary to spark and maintain a fire of continuous improvement in your organization. About the Patrick: Patrick Adams is the author of the best selling and Shingo-award winning book “Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap” and the host of The Lean Solutions Podcast. He is an international speaker, coach, and consultant. He is also a University Lecturer for the #1 Supply Chain Undergraduate Program at the University of Arkansas. Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He's worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profits, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion dollar corporations. Patrick is a proven leader and highly experienced consultant with specific niche focus on organizational strategy and leadership development which brings a unique human approach to sound team-building practices; creating consensus and enabling empowerment. He motivates, inspires, and drives the right results at all points in business processes. Links: Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn
S3 E39 · Tue, October 01, 2024
How Minds Change - The Essential Approach in Guiding Individuals Through Difficult Topics
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams, and David McRaney discuss the essential approach in guiding individuals through difficult topics without triggering defensive responses. About the Guest: David McRaney is a science journalist with a deep fascination for brains, minds, and culture. He is best known for creating the blog, bestselling book, and podcast *You Are Not So Smart*, which explores self-delusion and motivated reasoning. McRaney's work, which began as a blog in 2009, quickly gained international acclaim, with the book version being translated into 19 languages. The podcast continues to feature interviews with leading scientists in psychology, focusing on reasoning, decision-making, and judgment. His second book, *You Are Now Less Dumb* (2013), and his third book, *How Minds Change* (2022), further expanded his exploration of human behavior and thought processes. McRaney frequently lectures globally on these topics, engaging audiences with his insights on how we think and why we believe what we do. Before his writing career, McRaney worked in various roles, including newspaper reporting, covering Hurricane Katrina and human interest stories across the Deep South. He has also been an editor, photographer, voiceover artist, TV host, and teacher. In addition, he spent several years as the head of digital media for WDAM-TV, where he produced *The Green Couch Sessions*, a music TV show highlighting Southern artists. His diverse experience even extends to commercial work for brands like Heineken and Reebok. Most recently, McRaney produced and recorded a six-hour audio documentary on the history and concept of "genius," further showcasing his wide-ranging interests and expertise. Links: Click Here For David McRaney’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn
S3 E38 · Tue, September 24, 2024
Leading Excellence - The 5 Hats of the Adaptive Leader
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams, Andy Olrich, and guests Brad Jeavons and Chris Butterworth discuss the complexities of leadership. The traditional, one-size-fits-all approach to leading organizations is no longer sufficient in an environment where agility, empathy, and adaptability are paramount. About the Guest: Chris Butterworth Chris is a multi-award-winning author, international speaker, and Shingo Faculty Fellow. He co-authored three Shingo award-winning books on continuous improvement culture. Brad Jeavons Brad Jeavons is a senior leadership coach focused on creating a better future economically, socially, and environmentally. He hosts the Enterprise Excellence Podcast and authored Agile Sales: Delivering Customer Journeys of Value and Delight. Links: Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn Click Here For Brad Jeavons’s LinkedIn Click Here For Chris Butterworth’s LinkedIn Click Here For Leading Excellence - 5 Hats Of The Adaptive Leader
S3 E37 · Tue, September 17, 2024
Leveraging Data Intelligence for Effective Lean Transformation
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Andy Olrich, Patrick Adams, and guest Hessam Vali discuss The evolution of lean implementation in recent years, which has revolutionized process optimization and decision-making. About the Guest: Hessam Vali is the co-founder and managing partner of Optegrity Solutions and Techam Solutions, with extensive expertise in lean manufacturing, operational excellence, and supply chain management. Holding a Ph.D. and MBA, he has excelled as a fractional COO for mid-market businesses, leading large-scale manufacturing operations to drive sustainable growth. Certified as a Lean and Six Sigma Black Belt, Hessam is a proven leader in optimizing operations and achieving process consistency. His ability to coach and motivate teams has consistently delivered enhanced performance and bottom-line savings. Links: Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn Click Here For Hesssam’s LinkedIn Click Here For More Information On Optegrity Solutions Click Here For More Information On Techam Solutions
S3 E36 · Tue, September 10, 2024
Lean, Deming, And Quality
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams, Catherine McDonald, and guest Dennis Sergent discuss the intersection of Lean practices and Deming's principles, delving into the essential lessons Lean practitioners can glean from Deming’s insights. About the Guest: Dennis Sergent, principal at Sergent Results Group, is a management coach, consultant, and facilitator of scientific improvements grounded in Deming's System of Profound Knowledge. With experience at AT&T, where he was introduced to Dr. Deming’s ideas, Dennis specializes in quality, productivity, and transformation across various sectors. He has published research, delivered numerous keynotes, and lectured at several universities, including Wayne State and Georgetown, in collaboration with the W. Edwards Deming Institute. He has held leadership roles in several organizations and enjoys music, hunting, fishing, and time with his family. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn Click Here For Dennis Sergent’s LinkedIn Click Here For More Information On Sergent Results Group
S3 E35 · Tue, September 03, 2024
Kata Thinking Done Right
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Andy Olrich, Patrick Adams, and guest Beth Carrington discuss guiding individuals or teams in achieving desired outcomes through coaching kata. Kata methodologies drive innovation, improve efficiency, and foster a culture of continuous improvement, leading to notable success in respective industries. About the Guest: Beth Carrington , a seasoned consultant since 1999, specializes in lean transformations and coaching. With over two decades of leadership experience in various industries, she founded Carrington Consulting Inc. to focus on lean transformation. Since 2009, she has been a master coach in Improvement Kata/Coaching Kata, helping organizations enhance their scientific thinking for better performance and innovation. Beth's expertise is evident in her contributions to LEI's Lean Post, where she shares insights on Improvement and Coaching Kata. Her work has been compiled into "The Fundamentals of Improvement and Coaching Kata." Links: Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn Click Here For More About Beth Carrington And LEI Click Here For Toyota Kata: Managing People for Improvement, Adaptiveness and Superior Results Click Here For The Toyota Kata Practice Guide: Practicing Scientific Thinking Skills for Superior Results in 20 Minutes a Day Click Here For Bringing Scientific Thinking To Life: An Introduction To Toyota Kata For Next-Generation Business Leaders
S3 E34 · Tue, August 27, 2024
Using TWI to Identify and Develop Leaders
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Catherine McDonald, Andy Olrich, and guest Hugh Alley discuss how crucial it is to identify and develop effective leaders in today's dynamic business environment. Training Within Industry (TWI) offers a systematic approach to building foundational skills that not only enhance operational performance but also cultivate leadership potential. About the Guest: Hugh Alley is author and consultant. He divides his time between coaching senior operational leaders in continuous improvement, training front line leaders in core supervisory skills, and designing industrial facilities. Trained as an industrial engineer, he has run three manufacturing and distribution firms, and a department in a government agency. He has taught skills to over 1,000 front-line leaders. He has written two books: "Becoming the Supervisor: Achieving Your Company’s Mission and Building Your Team", and "The TWI Memory Jogger". He speaks frequently about supervision, quality, lean manufacturing and Toyota Kata. From his home near Vancouver, Canada, he helps clients across North America. Links: Click Here For Hugh Alley’s LinkedIn Click Here For Hugh Alley’s Book: Becoming The Supervisor Click Here For More Information On First Line Training Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn
S3 E33 · Tue, August 20, 2024
Kick Conflict To The Curb
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams, Shayne Daughenbaugh, and guest Joyce Weiss discuss coaching leaders in a way that ensures their teams feel heard and respected. Strategies such as staying calm, practicing active listening, and expressing yourself clearly to feel comfortable during uncomfortable communication can be effective in any profession. About the Guest: Our guest today holds a master’s degree in counseling from Oakland University in Rochester, MI, and is the author of the best-selling book, “Take the Ride of Your Life.” She serves as the Official Curator in Conflict Resolution for the World of Business and Executive Coach Summit. Joyce hosts the live broadcast "Kick Conflict to the Curb," interviewing department managers and thought leaders. She is one of only 215 women globally to earn the Certified Speaking Professional designation. Known as the Queen of Conflict Resolution, Joyce works with department managers, growth-minded individuals, and small groups to help them use their voices confidently without losing their cool. Links: Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn Click Here For Joyce’s Website Click Here For More Information On Kick Conflict To The Curb Click Here For Joyce’s LinkedIn Click Here For Joyce’s YouTube
S3 E32 · Tue, August 13, 2024
The Lean Turnaround Answer Book: Lean Accounting and Set-Up Reduction
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh, Catherine McDonald, and guest Art Byrne discuss Lean strategy and its extension beyond manufacturing as well as its potential to transform any business by enhancing overall operations. By eliminating waste, delivering consistent customer value, stimulating growth, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Lean principles enable companies to be more responsive to customer needs and increase wealth for stakeholders. About the Guest: Art Byrne began his lean journey in January 1982 as a General Manager at GE, leading the first just-in-time [lean] implementation there. As a Group Executive, he initiated lean at The Danaher Corporation. As CEO of the Wiremold Company, he led a lean transformation that increased enterprise value by nearly 2,500% in nine years and won a Shingo Prize. As an Operating Partner at J W Childes Associates, he implemented lean across their private equity portfolio. Art authored The Lean Turnaround and The Lean Turnaround Action Guide, both Shingo Prize winners. He is a member of the Shingo Academy, the Industry Week Magazine Manufacturing Hall of Fame, and the AME Hall of Fame. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Art Byrne’s LinkedIn Click Here For Art Byrne’s Book: The Lean Turnaround
S3 E31 · Tue, August 06, 2024
Podcast Spotlight: Lean Leadership Basics
As the midpoint of the year, we've carefully selected a few of our standout episodes from Season Three. These episodes stood out for their ability to captivate and engage our audience, making them the highlights of the season thus far. As always, the continued success of this podcast is made possible by your unwavering support, and for that, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. We're thrilled to revisit and share these moments with our dedicated listeners! What You’ll Learn: In this episode hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh, Patrick Adams, and guest Charlie Protzman discuss lean leadership, a transformative approach to management that prioritizes efficiency, continuous improvement, and respect for individuals within an organization. About the Guest: Charlie Protzman is an internationally renowned Lean implementer, trainer and Shingo Prize winning author with over 35 years’ experience in Materials and Operations Management. He has consulted with manufacturers, hospitals, government agencies and other service industries. He has currently published Leveraging Lean in Healthcare Series, One-Piece Flow vs. Batching, Card Based Control Systems for A Lean Work Design, and the Lean Practitioner's Field book as well as in the Journal of Production Economics. Links: Click Here For Charlie Protzman's Book: Lean Leadership Basics Click Here For Charlie Protzman's LinkedIn Click Here For Charlie Protzman's Website Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn
S3 E30 · Tue, July 30, 2024
Podcast Spotlight: Applying 2-Second Lean
As the midpoint of the year, we've carefully selected a few of our standout episodes from Season Three. These episodes stood out for their ability to captivate and engage our audience, making them the highlights of the season thus far. As always, the continued success of this podcast is made possible by your unwavering support, and for that, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. We're thrilled to revisit and share these moments with our dedicated listeners! What You’ll Learn: In this episode hosts Catherine McDonald, Patrick Adams, and guest Alex Ramirez discuss embracing the philosophy of 2-Second Lean, which empowers organizations to eliminate inefficiencies, fostering perpetual improvement for sustained growth and enhanced productivity. About the Guest: Alex Ramirez is a highly experienced Vice President of Operations at Vallourec Tube Alloy, bringing over a decade of expertise in manufacturing and Lean principles. With a focus on eliminating waste and fostering continuous improvement, he has held key roles such as Industrial Director & Lean Deployment Manager. His leadership at Vallourec includes significant contributions to Lean Process Improvement and Transformation. With a passion for team growth and development, Alex is a dedicated leader with a proven track record of success. Links: Click Here for “2 Second Lean” by Paul A. Akers Click Here for Alez Ramirez's LinkedIn Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn
S3 E29 · Tue, July 23, 2024
Podcast Spotlight: Tools Vs. Culture
As the midpoint of the year, we've carefully selected a few of our standout episodes from Season Three. These episodes stood out for their ability to captivate and engage our audience, making them the highlights of the season thus far. As always, the continued success of this podcast is made possible by your unwavering support, and for that, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. We're thrilled to revisit and share these moments with our dedicated listeners! What You’ll Learn: In this episode hosts Patrick Adams, Andy Olrich, and guest Ryan Tierney discuss a culture that values open communication, employee empowerment, and a commitment to learning enables teams to leverage tools effectively and adapt to evolving challenges. The true strength of an organization lies in its cultural foundation – a vibrant lean culture that embraces collaboration, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of improvement. A culture that values open communication, employee empowerment, and a commitment to learning enables teams to leverage tools effectively and adapt to evolving challenges. About the Guest: Ryan Tierney is a lean enthusiast and co-owner of Global Seating manufacturer Seating Matters renowned for its commitment to operational excellence and Lean principles. Beyond his role at Seating Matters, Ryan is the visionary founder of Lean Made Simple, & host of the Lean Made Simple podcast where he shares invaluable insights into the power of lean thinking. His podcast has soared to prominence, ranking #5 in UK Business Podcasts, and has garnered a dedicated following of listeners from all over the world. Ryan’s teachings have inspired thousands of organizations to embrace continuous improvement by simplifying the message of lean. Links: Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here To Connect With Ryan Tierney Click Here For The Lean Made Simple Website Click Here For The Lean Made Simple Podcast
S3 E28 · Wed, July 17, 2024
Rolling Out Lean In An Organization, Do's And Don'ts
What You’ll Learn: In this episode hosts Catherine McDonald, Shayne Daughenbaugh, and guest Shane Wentz delve into the crucial first steps of implementing lean in an organization, emphasizing the vital role of training and the common pitfalls encountered. About the Guest: Dr. Shane Wentz has been nationally recognized for his leadership, continuous improvement, and innovation contributions, resulting in significant global organizational savings. His career began in the Army as an intelligence analyst, evolving into a role as a Human Capital Manager where he managed workforce development, planning, training, and operations. Notably, he was the top Human Capital Manager in the Army, inducted into the prestigious Audie Murphy Club, and became the first enlisted soldier to earn a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt. Post-Army, Dr. Wentz led teams at Siemens, Nike, and Radial, and is now the chief operating officer and lead consultant at A Change in Latitude Consulting. Married to Susie for 24 years, with a son, Tommy, and an exchange student, Alexa, he enjoys running, reading, professional collaboration, and traveling. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Shane Wentz’s LinkedIn Shane Wentz’s TikTok: @bald_professor
S3 E27 · Tue, July 09, 2024
Meeting Leadership: Increase Your Engagement and Productivity
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh, Catherine McDonald, and Jeff Shannon discuss common mistakes in meeting leadership. This episode provides strategies to engage virtual participants, tips for effective 30-minute meetings, methods to tactfully redirect conversations, and techniques to end meetings positively. About the Guest: Jeff Shannon , a master facilitator with over 20 years' experience, specializes in corporate strategy workshops and offsite retreats. He designs and leads engaging meetings that drive participation, spark innovation, and achieve desired outcomes. Trusted by leadership teams across various industries, Jeff annually leads 60 to 70 workshops for major corporations including Cargill, Deloitte, and Macy’s. He is also a keynote speaker and author of practical guides such as Lead Engaging Meetings and Hard Work Is Not Enough. Links: Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Jeff Shannon’s LinkedIn Click Here For Jeff Shannon’s Weekly Newsletter Click Here For More Information On Jeff Shannon’s Podcast: Years Not Days
S3 E26 · Tue, July 02, 2024
The Effective Client
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Catherine McDonald, Shayne Daughenbaugh and guest David Skuodas explore the importance of being a good client in industry, highlighting how client behavior impacts project cost, schedule, and quality. This episode reveals the relevance of these themes in different project delivery systems and other areas of life. About the Guest: Dave Skuodas is the Director of Design, Construction, and Maintenance at the Mile High Flood District, overseeing a team responsible for delivering over $100 million worth of infrastructure and maintenance annually across 1,600 square miles in the Denver metro area. With over a decade of experience at the District and nine years as an engineering consultant, Dave holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Florida and is a registered Professional Engineer, Certified Floodplain Manager, LEED Accredited Professional, and Toastmasters Competent Communicator. He authored "The Effective Client" and co-hosts the podcast "Middle Aged Wisdom" with his wife, Nancy. Links: Click Here For David Skuodas’ LinkedIn Click Here For David Skuodas’ Book: The Effective Client Click Here For David Skuodas’ Website Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn
S3 E25 · Tue, June 25, 2024
Lean Impact: Transforming Companies From Within
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams and Andy Olrich discuss the challenges of relying on consultants for Lean transformation and the importance of developing an in-house team of problem solvers. They also highlighted common pitfalls in Lean deployment, such as leaders' resistance to support and delegation of standard work tasks. Also the crucial role of leadership buy-in for Lean implementation and the need for training and involving employees in the change process. About the Guest: Wes Hehn , president of Lean Forward - Continuous Improvement, has over 20+ years of global experience in leading and implementing Lean strategies to drive business growth and achieve operational excellence aspirations. In addition to his formal college education, Wes holds a Lean Six Sigma certification as well as multiple Lean certifications, most notably, a Lean Systems Program Certification from the University of Kentucky/Toyota Cooperative, which reflects his deep knowledge and expertise in the Toyota Production System. Links: Website: theleanforward.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/weshehn/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/leanforwardcontinuousimprovement/
S3 E24 · Tue, June 18, 2024
Wasted Efforts: The Pitfalls of Traditional Accounting
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams and Shayne Daughenbaugh discuss the implementation of Lean principles in accounting, emphasizing simplifying cost accounting, aligning costs with value streams, and adopting a PDCA mindset, while also noting the limitations of traditional practices and the need for a value-based approach. They covered Lean pricing strategies, such as market-based pricing and demand alignment, and discussed optimizing changeovers for efficiency, alongside sharing experiences of assisting veterans in their transition to civilian life. About the Guest: Mark DeLuzio is Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Lean Horizons Consulting. He is also a former Corporate Officer and Vice President of Danaher Business System (DBS) for Danaher Corporation. Danaher has been recognized as the leading implementer of Lean globally and has been rated as the 3rd most profitable US stock over the last 30 years. Mark is also credited with developing the first Lean Accounting process in the United States for Danaher’s Jake Brake Division, where he served as their Chief Financial Officer. Mark is the author of “Turn Waste into Wealth,” which offers practical advice for those considering a Lean transformation and “Flatlined – Why Lean Transformations Fail and What to do About It”, which offers the lessons learned from Mark’s association with hundreds of Lean transformations on a global basis. Links: Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For mark Deluzio’s Website
S3 E23 · Tue, June 11, 2024
Administrative Lean And The Summit
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams and Shayne Daughenbaugh discuss the potential of Lean in government administration. They emphasize the relevance of Lean principles in various administrative settings, including government and industry, and showcase advanced manufacturing and supply chain practices. They address challenges in implementing continuous improvement, such as entrenched processes and resistance to change, and stress the importance of process automation, work visualization, performance metrics, and goal setting to drive positive change. About the Guest: Shayne Daughenbaugh is a seasoned Process Improvement Project Manager with over 5 years of experience at the State of Nebraska, holding the distinction of a Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. They specialize in leading successful organizational change and implementing lean process improvement strategies, focusing on streamlining efforts and enhancing efficiency. With a strong background in operations management and lighting efficiency, Shayne's expertise extends beyond the professional realm, encompassing a decade-long commitment as a Pastor, demonstrating versatile skills in mentorship and strategic planning. Patrick Adams is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment.Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Links: Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn Click Here For The Lean Solutions Summit
S3 E34 · Tue, June 04, 2024
Prioritizing The Wrong Work
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Catherine McDonald and Andy Olrich discuss how prioritizing the wrong work can hamper growth and stifle development within organizations. By embracing a culture of continuous improvement, regularly reassessing priorities, and leveraging Lean Six Sigma tools, teams can navigate away from misaligned tasks and toward impactful endeavors, ensuring both organizational success and individual fulfillment. About the Guest: Emma Bint is the Managing Director of High CI Ltd. Graduating with a Master of Laws degree, and two post graduate certificates in leadership, Emma went on to certify as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and found her passion for Continuous Improvement. For the last 12 years, she has had extensive CI experience working in the service side of Lean such as customer service, sales, after sales, administration, operations, finance, logistics and shared services. Emma has worked for global oganizations, leading her own team of CI, OpEx and RPA specialists, but also used her CI skills to help develop leadership teams, transform processes, and create functional CI strategies for growth and culture change. Her experience has culminated in setting up a new company which provides professional continuous improvement solutions known as High CI Ltd. Links: Click Here For Emma Bint’s LinkedIn Click Here For Emma Bint’s YouTube Channel Click Here For Emma Bint’s Website Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn
S3 E19 · Tue, May 28, 2024
Unleashing the Power of Continuous Learning: The Lean Solutions Summit
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams and Andy Olrich discuss the importance of continuous learning in Lean and improvement cultures, discussing the upcoming Lean Solutions Summit with TED-like presentations and team-building excursions. They invite listeners to attend the summit, highlighting discounted pricing for groups and students, and discuss various team-building activities and tours aimed at promoting positive change and improvement. About the Guest: Andy Olrich brings over 25 years of expertise in engineering trades, services, manufacturing, mining and logistics processes and support. With qualifications in Continuous Improvement and LEAN Six Sigma, he is also a Certified Scrum Master. Andy finds fulfillment in witnessing the positive outcomes that result from teams collaboratively working towards shared and individual goals. Patrick Adams is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment.Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Links: Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn Click Here For The Lean Solutions Summit
S3 E20 · Tue, May 21, 2024
Using Strategic Influence to Enhance Lean Practices and Build High-Performing Teams
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Catherine McDonald and Patrick Adams discuss the importance of strategic influence in Lean adoption, highlighting the need to show rather than tell, celebrate small victories, involve people in decision-making, and connect the dots between actions and outcomes. By engaging employees and demonstrating the impact of changes at personal, team, and organizational levels, leaders can foster a culture of continuous improvement and drive sustainable change. About the Guest: Catherine McDonald is a Lean and Leadership Coach with MCD Consulting, her own business since 2018. She specializes in Lean deployment across various non-manufacturing sectors, employing a strategic, enthusiastic, and empathetic approach. Using collaborative methods, Catherine guides individuals and organizations from short-term reactive working to long-term strategic thinking. Patrick Adams is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment. Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams’ LinkedIn For Feedback, Email jr.adams@findleansolutions.com
S3 E19 · Tue, May 14, 2024
Beyond Waste Elimination
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Catherine McDonald and Shayne Daughenbaugh discuss process management as it emerges as a pivotal mechanism for organizational efficiency. Unlike mere process mapping or SOP creation, it involves continual optimization aligned with overarching goals. Effective leadership, systematic frameworks, and technological integration are key drivers, while challenges such as employee engagement and communication clarity must be navigated for successful implementation. About the Guest: Matt Spears is a business improvement professional with a passion for leading change and transforming the way value is created. Because customer value is created through business processes, Matt was necessarily drawn to the world of process management. Matt currently serves as a Senior Solutions Engineer for Nintex – a leading process management and automation software company. In his current role, Matt has the privilege of helping organizations achieve operational excellence through business process management. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Matt Spear’s Website Click Here For Matt Spear’s LinkedIn
S3 E18 · Tue, May 07, 2024
Give Wings To Your Team
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Andy Olrich and Patrick Adams discuss the difficulty of navigating through a crisis of market competition and organizational chaos. Through the transformative power of Toyota Kata in Lean methodology, we can embrace a culture of scientific thinking and coaching. Learning to empower our teams, transcend conventional practices, and unlock new realms of success gives us a path to success through continuous improvement. About the Guest: Tilo Schwarz supports organizations and managers in successfully leading change and empowering their teams for improvement, adaptiveness, and superior results. He was a plant manager at a renowned German power-tool manufacturer, where he and his management team started practicing Toyota Kata as part of Mike Rother's groundbreaking research in 2007. By doing so, Tilo and his team established continuous improvement as a daily working routine throughout all processes and areas of the plant. That led to winning the A. T. Kearny manufacturing competition "Factory of the Year" and a WHU/INSEAD Industrial Excellence Award. Tilo is co-founder of the Campus for Leaders at the University of Applied Science Ansbach and the author of several books on coaching and Toyota Kata. Links: Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn Click Here For Tilo’s Book: “Giving Wings to Her Team” Click Here For More Information On Tilo Schwarz Click Here For The Lean Solutions Summit
S3 E17 · Tue, April 30, 2024
Insights & Reflections - Chain Of Learning Pt. 2
What You’ll Learn: In this two-parted episode, host Andy Olrich delves into Katie Anderson’s transformative Chain of Learning workshops in Australia. Tune in as they explore attendee expectations, workshop insights, captivating leadership themes, and profound reflections. About the Guest: Katie Anderson is an internationally recognized leadership consultant, coach, professional speaker, and learning enthusiast, dedicated to helping purpose-driven leaders create cultures of learning and accelerate individual and organizational impact. A skilled change agent and coach, Katie has supported tens of thousands of leaders across a range of industries to create organizational learning cultures that foster innovation, engagement, and continuous improvement. A popular keynote speaker, she is the author of the bestselling book Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn , which has received multiple international awards, including the Shingo Publication Award, and has been translated into over eight languages. Katie is also the host of the transformational leadership podcast Chain of Learning. Katie holds a BA with honors from Stanford University and was a Fulbright Scholar in Australia, where she received her Master’s degree in public health. She has lived in seven countries, and regularly leads executive study trips to Japan for leaders looking to deepen their knowledge of people-centered leadership, operational excellence, and Japanese culture. Links: Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here to Learn More About Katie Anderson Click Here For Katie's Podcast, "Chain Of Learning" Click Here For Chain Of Learning Episode 12: "Beyond Appearances: Building Real Continuous Improvement with Patrick Adams" Click Here For The Lean Solutions Summit
S3 E16 · Tue, April 23, 2024
Insights & Reflections - Chain Of Learning Pt. 1
What You’ll Learn: In this two-parted episode, host Andy Olrich delves into Katie Anderson’s transformative Chain of Learning workshops in Australia. Tune in as they explore attendee expectations, workshop insights, captivating leadership themes, and profound reflections. About the Guest: Katie Anderson is an internationally recognized leadership consultant, coach, professional speaker, and learning enthusiast, dedicated to helping purpose-driven leaders create cultures of learning and accelerate individual and organizational impact. A skilled change agent and coach, Katie has supported tens of thousands of leaders across a range of industries to create organizational learning cultures that foster innovation, engagement, and continuous improvement. A popular keynote speaker, she is the author of the bestselling book Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn , which has received multiple international awards, including the Shingo Publication Award, and has been translated into over eight languages. Katie is also the host of the transformational leadership podcast Chain of Learning. Katie holds a BA with honors from Stanford University and was a Fulbright Scholar in Australia, where she received her Master’s degree in public health. She has lived in seven countries, and regularly leads executive study trips to Japan for leaders looking to deepen their knowledge of people-centered leadership, operational excellence, and Japanese culture. Links: Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here to Learn More About Katie Anderson Click Here For Chain Of Learning Episode 12: "Beyond Appearances: Building Real Continuous Improvement with Patrick Adams" Click Here For The Lean Solutions Summit
S3 E15 · Tue, April 16, 2024
Kanban Sucks: If It’s Not Done Right.
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Andy Olrich and Shayne Daughenbaugh discuss Kanban not just as a method, but as a choreography of productivity, transforming the manufacturing landscape into a finely tuned performance of excellence. Amidst this dance of efficiency, some voice the question: does Kanban suck? About the Guest: Steve Ansuini is the dynamic owner of the Center for Employee Development, LLC (C4ED), founded in 2007. Specializing in Lean Manufacturing, Transactional Lean, Health Care Lean, Maintenance, and Soft-Skills training, he has collaborated with Fortune 100 companies, achieving significant reductions in safety incidents, inventory, and operational costs. Beyond his business pursuits, Mr. Ansuini has partnered with Purdue University to establish and operate a Lean Environment Simulator (LES) since 2015, one of just six units available to the public globally. With a rich background including 3 years at Toyota Engineering & Manufacturing of North America and 17 years at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, he brings a wealth of expertise from his 10-year stints at Mack Trucks and the US Marine Corps. Links: Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Steve Ansuini’s LinkedIn
S3 E14 · Tue, April 09, 2024
Mistakes Young Leaders Make
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams and Catherine McDonald discuss the common mistakes emerging leaders often encounter. It's a conversation that highlights the transformative power of errors, turning them into stepping stones for future leadership excellence. About the Guest: Phil Ranck , a retired 24-year United States Army veteran from Pennsylvania, excels in Lean Six Sigma methodologies, holding certifications such as Certified Department of the Army Master Black Belt and accreditations from IASSC, ASQ, and CSSC. With a background in Military Management and program acquisition, coupled with a Master's degree in Transportation and Logistics Management, Phil has trained numerous students in Green and Black Belt Certifications, leading impactful projects. His commitment to clear processes for change is reflected in additional certifications in Design Thinking, Business Process Re-Engineering, and Change Management from institutions like IBM, IDEO, and Virginia State University. In 2019, Phil founded Lean Alaska upon retiring from the Army, focusing on delivering quality, personalized interactions and fostering a community of Lean Six Sigma practitioners. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adam’s LinkedIn Click Here For Phil’s LinkedIn Click Here For Lean Alaska’s LinkedIn Click Here For Lean Alaska’s Website
S3 E13 · Tue, April 02, 2024
Applying CI To Our Personal Lives
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams and Andy Olrich discuss coaching and personal growth, highlighting the importance of iterations and experimentation in learning, emphasizing the need to focus on others rather than oneself in coaching practices. Everyone, regardless of position or expertise, shares common struggles and the importance of normalizing vulnerability and seeking support within professional communities is essential to success. About the Guest: Sam Morgan is a self-proclaimed “confident learner.” After spending the past five years of work in the continuous improvement space he landed at KataCon, a conference for continuous improvement professionals who practice the Toyota Kata. There he had a powerful moment realizing where his true passion lies: transforming people through coaching. Ever since then he has been on a mission to help folks illuminate who they really are, what they were created to do, and give them the confidence to live it out through the powerful practice of daily coaching. Sam helps change the lives of people through the process of uncovering their PURPOSE, helping them understand the PATTERN of the Improvement Kata, tied together through the PRACTICE of daily coaching cycles. Sam takes joy in seeing his clients move from fearful to fearless; from insecure to confident. He resonates deeply with the quote from Henry David Thoreau, “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.” Links: Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adam’s LinkedIn Click Here for Sam Morgan’s LinkedIn Click Here for Sam Morgan’s Website
S3 E12 · Tue, March 26, 2024
Lean Sucks! (If You're Not Doing It Right)
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams and Shayne Daughenbaugh discuss lean methodology and its promise of efficiency and productivity improvement. The sentiment towards Lean isn't always positive, especially when implementation goes awry. While Lean has proven to be a transformative approach for many organizations, it requires meticulous execution and a deep understanding of its principles. About the Guest: Maria Makrygianni is a seasoned Process Improvement Expert with 22 years of experience as an Airforce Officer (Captain) in aviation maintenance. She specializes in enhancing operational performance and profitability across various EU industries. Her expertise includes designing and leading training programs in Lean Six Sigma and Lean Management. Her extensive background spans Line & Heavy Maintenance, Quality Inspection, Aircraft Maintenance Resources Management, and Quality Audits. As a Chief Aircraft Engineer, she has improved and supervised aircraft maintenance processes, contributing to published scientific journals. Additionally, she holds a BA in Aeronautical Engineering and an MSc in Advanced Industrial & Manufacturing Systems, focusing on Reliability Analysis and TQM for Jet Fighter Maintenance Operations. She is also a Certified Systemic Analyst. Links: Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adam’s LinkedIn Click Here for Maria Makrygianni’s LinkedIn
S3 E11 · Tue, March 19, 2024
Why Does Lean Fail?
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams and Catherine McDonald discuss a common problem in organizations which leads to misguided initiatives and wasted resources: fake lean people. Fake lean individuals falsely claim to adhere to lean principles, adopting superficial aspects without a genuine commitment to continuous improvement. On the other hand, real lean individuals actively embrace and implement lean methodologies, fostering a culture of efficiency, waste reduction, and continuous improvement that contributes to the organization's success. About the Guest: With 30 years of experience, Dr. Bob Emiliani is a progressive management practitioner and researcher, having held leadership roles in engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain management during his 15-year industry tenure. As a pivotal member of the Pratt & Whitney team, he contributed to implementing Toyota Production System (TPS) principles in both manufacturing and supply chains. Transitioning to academia, Bob spent 23 years as a full-time professor and is now Professor Emeritus, renowned for pioneering Lean leadership research, with 28 books and numerous publications spanning diverse disciplines, earning him recognition as a prolific and award-winning writer. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn Click Here for Bob Emiliani’s LinkedIn Click Here For More Information On Bob Emiliani
S3 E10 · Tue, March 12, 2024
Tools Vs. Culture
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Patrick Adams and Andy Olrich discuss a culture that values open communication, employee empowerment, and a commitment to learning enables teams to leverage tools effectively and adapt to evolving challenges. The true strength of an organization lies in its cultural foundation – a vibrant lean culture that embraces collaboration, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of improvement. A culture that values open communication, employee empowerment, and a commitment to learning enables teams to leverage tools effectively and adapt to evolving challenges. About the Guest: Ryan Tierney is a lean enthusiast and co-owner of Global Seating manufacturer Seating Matters renowned for its commitment to operational excellence and Lean principles. Beyond his role at Seating Matters, Ryan is the visionary founder of Lean Made Simple, & host of the Lean Made Simple podcast where he shares invaluable insights into the power of lean thinking. His podcast has soared to prominence, ranking #5 in UK Business Podcasts, and has garnered a dedicated following of listeners from all over the world. Ryan’s teachings have inspired thousands of organizations to embrace continuous improvement by simplifying the message of lean. Links: Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click here to connect with Ryan Tierney Click here for the Lean Made Simple website Click here for the Lean Made Simple podcast
S3 E9 · Tue, March 05, 2024
The Wheel Of Sustainability: Accountability
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Andy Olrich and Shayne Daughenbaugh discuss The Wheel of Sustainability – a transformative framework to enhance your leadership commitment and empower teams for enduring success, as well as ideal leadership development, its impact on profitability, organizational support structures, and strategies for sustaining leader empowerment. About the Guest: The creator of “The Wheel of Sustainability,” Adam Lawrence is an industry expert, speaker, and author who directly works with and empowers teams to sustainably solve critical business problems. Adam coaches, mentors, and facilitates leaders and teams to deliver sustainable, breakthrough business results. Adam founded Process Improvement Partners LLC in 2018. He has 35+ years of process improvement experience helping businesses in manufacturing, distribution, and service industries. Based in Lancaster PA with his wife and son, Adam is ready to help you and your team anywhere in the world. Links: Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click here to connect with Adam Lawrence Click Here to learn more about the Wheel of Sustainability
S3 E8 · Tue, February 27, 2024
Creating A People-First Lean Culture
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Andy Olrich and Catherine McDonald explore the slow adoption of Lean principles in small businesses, highlighting the challenges in learning Lean and coaching these principles. The emphasis on hands-on learning and the effectiveness of the KATA approach suggest that its practical skill set makes it stand out among various Lean methodologies, prompting a discussion on why it isn't more widely promoted by leaders in the Lean space. About the Guest: Don Watza , a highly experienced and passionate problem-solver with a BS in business operations and diverse certificates, boasts a successful career in HR, people management, process improvement, and IT. Founding two businesses and a non-profit, he collaborated with major entities like the State of Michigan, Michigan Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Comerica Bank. Specializing in healthcare and HR finance transactions, Don excels in leading complex projects and teams, praised for fostering innovation. His expertise includes identifying process and system gaps, and he's recently embraced Lean principles, particularly tools like KATA, for continuous improvement. Don's legacy lies in driving positive change where the work is done. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Don Watza’s LinkedIn
S3 E7 · Tue, February 20, 2024
Celebrating Failures
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Andy Olrich and Patrick Adams discuss embracing and celebrating failures, encouraging a mindset shift from a fear of failure to an embrace of experimentation and innovation. Celebrating failures in Lean promotes transparency, collaboration, and a shared commitment to organizational learning, ultimately leading to more resilient and adaptive teams capable of achieving sustainable success. About the Guest: Mark Graban , author of "The Mistakes That Make Us," is a renowned speaker and consultant. His other notable works include the award-winning "Lean Hospitals" and "Measures of Success." Mark serves as a consultant through his company, Constancy, Inc., and also as a Senior Advisor for KaiNexus. Mark is also the host of podcasts like "Lean Blog Interviews" and "My Favorite Mistake." Links: Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn Click Here For Mark Graban's Website Click Here For Marks Book: The Mistakes That Make Us
S2 E6 · Tue, February 13, 2024
Applying 2-Second Lean
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Catherine McDonald and Patrick Adams discuss embracing the philosophy of 2-Second Lean, which empowers organizations to eliminate inefficiencies, fostering perpetual improvement for sustained growth and enhanced productivity. About the Guest: Alex Ramirez is a highly experienced Vice President of Operations at Vallourec Tube Alloy, bringing over a decade of expertise in manufacturing and Lean principles. With a focus on eliminating waste and fostering continuous improvement, he has held key roles such as Industrial Director & Lean Deployment Manager. His leadership at Vallourec includes significant contributions to Lean Process Improvement and Transformation. With a passion for team growth and development, Alex is a dedicated leader with a proven track record of success. Links: Click here for “2 Second Lean” by Paul A. Akers Click here for Alex Ramirez's LinkedIn Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn
S3 E5 · Tue, February 06, 2024
Lean Leadership Basics
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh, and Patrick Adams discuss lean leadership, a transformative approach to management that prioritizes efficiency, continuous improvement, and respect for individuals within an organization. About the Guest: Charlie Protzman is an internationally renowned Lean implementer, trainer and Shingo Prize winning author with over 35 years’ experience in Materials and Operations Management. He has consulted with manufacturers, hospitals, government agencies and other service industries. He has currently published Leveraging Lean in Healthcare Series, One-Piece Flow vs. Batching, Card Based Control Systems for A Lean Work Design, and the Lean Practitioner's Field book as well as in the Journal of Production Economics. Links: Click here for Charlie Protzman's book Lean Leadership Basics Click here for Charlie Protzman's LinkedIn Click here for Charlie Protzman's Website Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn
S3 E4 · Wed, January 31, 2024
Get Your Organization Off The Ground!
What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh, Patrick Adams, Andy Olrich, and Catherine McDonald discuss a model that emphasizes the essential steps to launch an organization successfully, highlighting the obstacles preventing progress, such as the adverse effects of limited leadership support. It underscores the significance of daily management and leader standard work in reinforcing positive actions and behaviors. About the Guest: Shayne Daughenbaugh is a seasoned Process Improvement Project Manager with over 5 years of experience at the State of Nebraska, holding the distinction of a Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. They specialize in leading successful organizational change and implementing lean process improvement strategies, focusing on streamlining efforts and enhancing efficiency. With a strong background in operations management and lighting efficiency, Shayne's expertise extends beyond the professional realm, encompassing a decade-long commitment as a Pastor, demonstrating versatile skills in mentorship and strategic planning. Patrick Adams is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment.Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Catherine McDonald is a Lean and Leadership Coach with MCD Consulting, her own business since 2018. She specializes in Lean deployment across various non-manufacturing sectors, employing a strategic, enthusiastic, and empathetic approach. Using collaborative methods, Catherine guides individuals and organizations from short-term reactive working to long-term strategic thinking. Andy Olrich brings over 25 years of expertise in engineering trades, services, manufacturing, mining and logistics processes and support. With qualifications in Continuous Improvement and LEAN Six Sigma, he is also a Certified Scrum Master. Andy finds fulfillment in witnessing the positive outcomes that result from teams collaboratively working towards shared and individual goals. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn <a hre
S3 E3 · Tue, January 23, 2024
Learning From Industry Leaders: Season Three Host Introductions 2/2
In our upcoming season, our mission remains clear: empower you with the insights needed for streamlined processes, waste elimination, and building a foundation for sustainable success. Season three brings inspiring interviews, industry trend analyses, and practical tips for navigating the business landscape. Our podcast boasts a stellar lineup of guests, from industry experts to visionary entrepreneurs, offering actionable strategies for both seasoned leaders and those starting their entrepreneurial journey. Join us on The Lean Solutions Podcast for a fresh perspective on optimizing operations and igniting passion for efficiency in Season Three. Embrace change, innovate boldly, and pave the way for a leaner, more prosperous future. Thank you for joining the lean revolution! What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Shayne Daughenbaugh and Patrick Adams engage in a thoughtful exploration of their backgrounds and professional journeys, providing insightful glimpses into their respective experiences. About the Guest: Shayne Daughenbaugh is a seasoned Process Improvement Project Manager with over 5 years of experience at the State of Nebraska, holding the distinction of a Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. They specialize in leading successful organizational change and implementing lean process improvement strategies, focusing on streamlining efforts and enhancing efficiency. With a strong background in operations management and lighting efficiency, Shayne's expertise extends beyond the professional realm, encompassing a decade-long commitment as a Pastor, demonstrating versatile skills in mentorship and strategic planning. Patrick Adams is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment.Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Links: Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn Click Here For Patrick Adams LinkedIn
S3 E2 · Thu, January 18, 2024
Learning From Industry Leaders: Season Three Host Introductions 1/2
In our upcoming season, our mission remains clear: empower you with the insights needed for streamlined processes, waste elimination, and building a foundation for sustainable success. Season three brings inspiring interviews, industry trend analyses, and practical tips for navigating the business landscape. Our podcast boasts a stellar lineup of guests, from industry experts to visionary entrepreneurs, offering actionable strategies for both seasoned leaders and those starting their entrepreneurial journey. Join us on The Lean Solutions Podcast for a fresh perspective on optimizing operations and igniting passion for efficiency in Season Three. Embrace change, innovate boldly, and pave the way for a leaner, more prosperous future. Thank you for joining the lean revolution! What You’ll Learn: In this episode, hosts Catherine McDonald and Andy Olrich engage in a thoughtful exploration of their backgrounds and professional journeys, providing insightful glimpses into their respective experiences. About the Guest: Catherine McDonald is a Lean and Leadership Coach with MCD Consulting, her own business since 2018. She specializes in Lean deployment across various non-manufacturing sectors, employing a strategic, enthusiastic, and empathetic approach. Using collaborative methods, Catherine guides individuals and organizations from short-term reactive working to long-term strategic thinking. Andy Olrich brings over 25 years of expertise in engineering trades, services, manufacturing, mining and logistics processes and support. With qualifications in Continuous Improvement and LEAN Six Sigma, he is also a Certified Scrum Master. Andy finds fulfillment in witnessing the positive outcomes that result from teams collaboratively working towards shared and individual goals. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn
S3 E1 · Tue, January 09, 2024
Season Three Teaser: "Rich Men North of Richmond" and CI?
In our upcoming season, our mission remains clear: empower you with the insights needed for streamlined processes, waste elimination, and building a foundation for sustainable success. Season three brings inspiring interviews, industry trend analyses, and practical tips for navigating the business landscape. Our podcast boasts a stellar lineup of guests, from industry experts to visionary entrepreneurs, offering actionable strategies for both seasoned leaders and those starting their entrepreneurial journey. Join us on The Lean Solutions Podcast for a fresh perspective on optimizing operations and igniting passion for efficiency in Season Three. Embrace change, innovate boldly, and pave the way for a leaner, more prosperous future. Thank you for joining the lean revolution! About The Guest: One of the changes we are making this season includes adding three more hosts to the show. The hosts will trade off assisting in the interviews and discussions. Let’s meet the hosts! Catherine McDonald is a Lean and Leadership Coach with MCD Consulting, her own business since 2018. She specializes in Lean deployment across various non-manufacturing sectors, employing a strategic, enthusiastic, and empathetic approach. Using collaborative methods, Catherine guides individuals and organizations from short-term reactive working to long-term strategic thinking. Andy Olrich brings over 25 years of expertise in engineering trades, services, manufacturing, mining and logistics processes and support. With qualifications in Continuous Improvement and LEAN Six Sigma, he is also a Certified Scrum Master. Andy finds fulfillment in witnessing the positive outcomes that result from teams collaboratively working towards shared and individual goals. Shayne Daughenbaugh is a seasoned Process Improvement Project Manager with over 5 years of experience at the State of Nebraska, holding the distinction of a Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. They specialize in leading successful organizational change and implementing lean process improvement strategies, focusing on streamlining efforts and enhancing efficiency. With a strong background in operations management and lighting efficiency, Shayne's expertise extends beyond the professional realm, encompassing a decade-long commitment as a Pastor, demonstrating versatile skills in mentorship and strategic planning. Links: Click Here For Catherine McDonald’s LinkedIn Click Here For Andy Olrich’s LinkedIn Click Here For Shayne Daughenbaugh’s LinkedIn For Feedback, Email jr.adams@patrickadamsconsulting.co
S2 E46 · Mon, January 01, 2024
Keeping Gemba Walks Fresh With Michael Bremer
In this episode, Michael Bremer and I discover the key differentiators of highly effective organizations, explore the concept of a gemba walk and its importance, and discuss how to keep gemba walks fresh for continuous improvement. What You'll Learn: What is different about organizations that are highly effective at improving and the rest? What is a gemba walk? And why should I do one? What do you mean when you say, "Keep Your Gemba Walks Fresh" About the Guest: Author, semi-retired from business in 2018. A variety of experiences over the years including director productivity and later director of information systems for Beatrice Foods, Chief Financial Officer and Board member for the Association of Manufacturing Excellence (AME) and President the Cumberland Group in Chicago for 28 years (global consulting company). Served as adjunct faculty for the University of Chicago’s Graham School for a 15 year period and also served as a senior mentor at a new business start-up incubator focused on manufacturing (mHub Chicago). Links: Click here for more information on Michael's Book, How To Do A Gemba Walk: Coaching Gemba Walkers
S2 E45 · Tue, December 26, 2023
Ignite Passion with Stephanie Bown
In this episode, Stephanie Bown and I discuss solutions to common problems, the need for organizations to focus on performance systems, and the role of leaders in fostering high performance, offering practical tips for team leaders. What You'll Learn: Can you tell us a little bit about your book? What kinds of problems does this book help people address? Tell us about why organizations need to think about systems of performance? What role do leaders play in creating a high performance culture? How did you get into this line of work? What drew you to this topic? If you’re a team leader - what are some practical ways you can help your team perform better? About the Guest: Stephanie is the acclaimed author of Purpose, Passion & Performance: how systems for leadership, culture and strategy drive the 3Ps of high performing organizations; awarded one of Australia’s top 3 leadership books in 2021. As an accredited facilitator for Young Presidents Organization (YPO) and Company Director (GAICD), Stephanie deeply understands the challenges today’s leaders face. She works with directors, founders and executive teams to deliver talks and programs that embed high performance habits and drive transformational change. Having completed a Masters in Organization Dynamics, tertiary qualifications in psychology, neuropsychology, and positive psychology; as well as professional accreditations in validated psychometric tools; Stephanie has devoted her life to discovering the dynamics of individuals, teams and organizations. Links: Click here to connect with Stephanie Click here for Stephanie's website
S2 E44 · Tue, December 19, 2023
Strategy and the Future of Lean with Trina Poston
In this episode, Trina Poston and I highlight the unique benefits lean brings, explore its next evolutions, and discuss the crucial skill set of a successful lean leader. What You'll Learn: What is your background / how did you get into lean? Many lean practitioners have engineering backgrounds, how do you feel having a non-engineering background benefits you as a lean practitioner? What is your favorite lean practice? In your opinion, what's the next evolution of lean? What do you feel is the most necessary skill set of a lean leader? About the Guest: Trina Poston is a leadership consultant, adjunct facilitator, speaker, strategic portfolio manager and experienced Lean practitioner. As the Founder and Principal of MAP Coaching + Consulting, a business consulting and personal coaching firm, Trina is devoted to serving clients through customized solutions to improve performance. Leveraging a background in strategic development and program execution across multiple industries, Trina brings a multimodal style from a toolkit of Design Thinking, Lean and scalable Project Management principles. This unique approach combined with a focus on training and development and civic engagement have led to Trina being recognized by the State of Michigan Office of Good Government with the Symbol of Excellence. Links: Click here for more information on Trina Poston
S2 E43 · Tue, December 12, 2023
Lean Relevance for All with Adam Ward
In this episode, Adam Ward and I discuss quick insights on Lean's current state, avoiding common transformation errors, and unlocking momentum for stuck Lean practitioners. What You'll Learn: What are your thoughts on the state of lean today? How do you stay current with Lean trends? What are some common mistakes you see with transformations? What one piece of advice would you give Lean practitioners for the ‘20s? How can Lean practitioners who feel “stuck,” get momentum again? About the Guest: Adam Ward is an experienced executive coach who has helped hundreds of leaders achieve their goals. He has an uncanny ability to identify root causes that prevent organizational growth and help clients overcome these challenges and obstacles at scale. Adam has a wealth of experience working with executives in a variety of industries. He has worked with CEOs, CFOs, COOs, CMOs, and other senior leaders. He is fluent in operational excellence, design thinking, Agile, and other operational and development methodologies. Adam is a trusted advisor to his clients. He is confidential and supportive, and he always puts his clients' needs first. He is also a skilled listener and communicator and is an Amazon best-selling author of Lean Design in Healthcare and the Healthcare Innovator’s Workbook. Links: Click here for Adam's Book, "Lean Design in Healthcare" Click here to connect with Adam on LinkedIn Click here for Adam's Website
S2 E42 · Tue, December 05, 2023
Reaching Positive Outcomes Faster with Kerry Bass
In this episode, Kerry L. Bass and I explore strategies for accelerating organizational change, building trust in elections, fostering societal success for all, attracting the right talent, and examining the continued relevance of quality management principles. What You'll Learn: 1. How can my organization get change faster? 2. What can be done to help citizens have more faith in elections? 3. How can societies be more successful in supporting all? 4. How do I get the right people to join my organization? 5. Are quality management principles still relevant? About the Guest: Kerry L. Bass is the CEO and founder of Potential To Reality Consulting and a Senior Member of ASQ. He is an executive consultant who specializes in enterprise transformation, operational excellence and organizational change management. His personal and professional focus is on helping organizations and societies that are dedicated to the wellbeing of their stakeholders achieve and sustain excellence. For more than 25 years, Kerry has been leading and supporting transformation and major organizational change for governmental agencies, as well as non-profit and commercial enterprises. Links: Click here for the Potential To Reality Consulting Website Click here to contact Potential To Reality
S2 E41 · Tue, November 28, 2023
Former AME President, George Saiz, Talks Culture
In this episode, George Saiz explores the essence of his book, "We Started with Respect," touching on its unique message, the significance of respect, overlooked key elements for cultural change, and personal writing insights. What You'll Learn: 1. Why a book on culture - there are so many out there? What important message do you bring? 2. Why the book title of "We Started with Respect," what's important about that to you? 3. Your front book cover says it's A Novel, but the word "Novel" is crossed out and replaced with the word "Blueprint." Tell us about that. 4. In your book, the team adopts seven key elements of the culture that they want to develop. I recognize that they're all important, but which one or ones do you think are overlooked and yet are key to successfully transforming the company culture? 5. What is something you learned over the course of writing this book? About the Guest: George Saiz enjoys sharing leadership strategies from his experience as a medical device executive with Johnson & Johnson, Zimmer-Biomet, DJO Global and MicroAire. Combined with the best practices he observed as President & CEO of The Association for Manufacturing Excellence, he’s convinced of the importance of including people in all business equations. Now, as a writer, keynote speaker, and coach, he promotes enterprise excellence through a people-centric culture to the next generation of business leaders. Links: Click here for more information on George Saiz Click here for more information on "We Started With Respect"
S2 E40 · Tue, November 21, 2023
Podcast Spotlight: The Danaher Business System With Mark Deluzio
We've carefully selected a few of our standout episodes from Season Two. These episodes stood out for their ability to captivate and engage our audience, making them the highlights of the season. As always, the continued success of this podcast is made possible by your unwavering support, and for that, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. We're thrilled to revisit and share these moments with our dedicated listeners! Episode Details: In this episode, Mark Deluzio and I discuss the Danaher business system, as well as the art of Lean Transformation. What You'll Learn: Why do Lean Transformations fail? Could you explain the importance of having a business strategy and the ability to deploy/execute the strategy. What made the Danaher Business System so successful? As the "Father of Lean Accounting," how important is it to change the accounting systems when embarking on a Lean Transformation? What role does Respect for People play in the success of a Lean Transformation About the Guest: Mark DeLuzio is Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Lean Horizons Consulting. He is also a former Corporate Officer and Vice President of Danaher Business System (DBS) for Danaher Corporation. Danaher has been recognized as the leading implementer of Lean globally and has been rated as the 3rd most profitable US stock over the last 30 years. Mark is also credited with developing the first Lean Accounting process in the United States for Danaher’s Jake Brake Division, where he served as their Chief Financial Officer. Mark is the author of “Turn Waste into Wealth,” which offers practical advice for those considering a Lean transformation and “Flatlined – Why Lean Transformations Fail and What to do About It”, which offers the lessons learned from Mark’s association with hundreds of Lean transformations on a global basis. Links: Click here for more information on Mark Deluzio Click here to order one of Mark Deluzio's books Click here for Mark Deluzio's Podcast Click here for more information on B.R.A.V.E.
S2 E38 · Tue, November 14, 2023
Podcast Spotlight: Lean Mindset With Mike Leigh
We've carefully selected a few of our standout episodes from Season Two. These episodes stood out for their ability to captivate and engage our audience, making them the highlights of the season. As always, the continued success of this podcast is made possible by your unwavering support, and for that, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. We're thrilled to revisit and share these moments with our dedicated listeners! Episode Details: In this episode, Mike Leigh and I discuss the application of lean as well as the implementation of a lean mindset within organizations. What You'll Learn: 1. Can you describe your Lean journey so far? 2. How has your attitude toward the application of Lean changed? 3. What is your approach to helping companies move forward on their Lean journey? 4. You're not a big fan of Six Sigma. Why is that? 5. What advice would you give to Lean practitioners who want to make a difference in their organizations? About the Guest: Mike Leigh is the President of OpX Solutions, a performance improvement company that helps manufacturers remove the barriers that prevent them from achieving their goals by developing leaders and improving processes. Prior to starting his company, Mike had a 13-year manufacturing career where he held a variety of operational supply chain leadership roles. Prior to that, he served in the US Navy as a surface warfare officer where he specialized in nuclear propulsion, and later retired as a Commander in the reserves. Links: Click here to connect with Mike Leigh Click Here to learn more about Opx Solutions Click here for the OpX Solutions YouTube page
S2 E38 · Thu, November 09, 2023
Podcast Spotlight: Cultures Of Continuous Improvement With Katie Anderson
We've carefully selected a few of our standout episodes from Season Two. These episodes stood out for their ability to captivate and engage our audience, making them the highlights of the season. As always, the continued success of this podcast is made possible by your unwavering support, and for that, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. We're thrilled to revisit and share these moments with our dedicated listeners! Episode Details: In this episode, Katie Anderson and I discuss a culture of excellence through continuous improvement during a pre-recorded webinar. What You'll Learn: 1. What are the ingredients that make up a culture of excellence? 2. In cultures of CI, what does it mean to “learn, lead, and care”? 3. Can you share your favorite story from Mr. Yoshino that exemplifies a culture of CI? 4. Why do you do the Japan study trip? 5. What will we see that backs up how the Japanese culture played a part in Toyota’s success? About the Guest: Katie Anderson is an internationally recognized leadership and learning coach, consultant, and professional speaker, best known for inspiring individuals and organizations to lead with intention and increase their personal and professional impact. Katie is passionate about helping people around the world learn to lead and lead to learn by connecting purpose, process, and practice to achieve higher levels of performance. Her book Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn: Lessons from Toyota Leader Isao Yoshino on a Lifetime of Continuous Learning is an international #1 Amazon bestseller Links: Click here to learn more about Katie Anderson Click here for more information on Katie Anderson's books
S2 E37 · Sun, November 05, 2023
The Rapid Results Virtual Summit With Patrick Adams
In this episode of The Lean Solutions Podcast, host Patrick Adams engages in a comprehensive exploration of a culture centered around continuous improvement, the implementation of visual management techniques, and the establishment of clear performance expectations. What You'll Learn: The annual Rapid Results Summit provides an opportunity for State employees, Rapid Results Agency representatives, and Executive Agency leadership to increase Rapid Results engagement throughout the State of Illinois, continue education on Rapid Results-related topics, engage with all levels of leadership, and network with other State leaders and continuous improvement professionals. About the Speaker: Patrick is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment. Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He’s worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profit, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion-dollar corporations. Patrick is an Author of the best selling book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap. Links: Click Here For More Information On Patrick's Best-Selling Book: Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap.
S2 E36 · Tue, October 24, 2023
Creating an Improvement Culture through Life Lessons With Lee Houghton
In this episode Lee Houghton and I dive into building a better workplace as well as measuring success in culture improvement. What You'll Learn: 1) What's the most important thing about creating an improvement culture? 2) What are the 2 most important measures companies should measure but don't? 3) How can the lessons of comedy help you overcome resistance to change? 4) At Get Knowledge you talk about a BEST model, what does that stand for? 5) How did losing your friend in 2018 reshape how you help people and what are the 3 lessons he shared? About the Guest: Lee is a business improvement coach who prides himself on helping people and teams make today better than yesterday, a lot of people can say these things about themselves though. So what makes Lee different is his random journey to get to where he has with, one pivotal moment in losing his best mate ‘Chris’ after his brave cancer battle that changed Lee’s life forever.Lee’s random journey has included writing 5 children books, owning a bouncy castle business AND DJ, including 18 months Dj’ing dressed as a monkey.... all these things have shaped his career from data input administrator to co-founding Get Knowledge in 2018. BUT, as a shiny object syndrome sufferer, it was losing Chris that has sharpened his focus and desire to help people confidently deliver change. Links: Click here to connect with Lee Houghton
S2 E35 · Tue, October 17, 2023
Lean in The Service Sector with Catherine McDonald
In this episode Catherine McDonald and I shed light on key principles of lean management, share success stories, discuss supporting leaders, and reveal strategies for sustaining effectiveness in the long term. What You'll Learn: 1. What do you see as the key principles and practices of Lean management and how can these be effectively applied in different organizational contexts? 2. Can you share some success stories of companies that have implemented Lean principles and practices and achieved significant improvements in operations and practices? 3. Leadership has a huge impact on the success of Lean management and CI. How do you support leaders to develop the skills they need to optimize their team and processes? 4. What strategies and techniques do you employe to engage and motivate people at all levels of an organization to embrace Lean thinking and get involved in CI? 5. How do you measure the effectiveness of Lean and Leadership Development initiatives and ensure they are sustainable in the long term? About the Guest: Catherine is a Lean and Leadership Coach. Her work involves training and coaching executives and teams in organizations of all types and sizes. In 2018, Catherine started her own business- MCD Consulting where she works as a Lean and Leadership Coach. She specializes in Lean deployment in non-manufacturing industries, including food, retail, education, non-profit, health care, event management, hospitality and media. Catherine's approach is strategic, enthusiastic and empathetic. Through collaborative methods, she facilitates people and organizations to move from short-term reactive working to long-term strategic thinking. Links: Click here to connect with Catherine McDonald
S2 E34 · Tue, October 10, 2023
Strategy Deployment and Execution with Karen Martin
In this episode Karen Martin and I discuss Hoshin Kanri's vital role in organizational alignment, true north establishment, troubleshooting, and long-term sustainability. What You'll Learn: What is Hoshin Kanri? Why is it so important for organizations to have complete alignment? How do organizations determine their true north? What are some examples of organizational noise or breakdowns in organizational Hoshin and what can we do about it? How do organizations sustain their Hoshin? About the Guest: Karen Martin, President of the global consulting firm TKMG, Inc. and President and Founder of TKMG Academy, Inc., is a leading authority on business performance improvement, problem solving, and Lean management systems. Known for her keen diagnostic skills and rapid-results approach, Karen and her team have worked with clients such as Adventist Health, AT&T, Chevron, Epson, GlaxoSmithKline, International Monetary Fund, Lenovo, Mayo Clinic, Prudential Insurance, Qualcomm, and the United States Department of Defense to develop more efficient work systems, grow market share, solve business problems, and accelerate performance. An in-demand speaker, she’s the three-time Award-winning author of Clarity First, The Outstanding Organization, and Value Stream Mapping. Links: Click here to connect with Karen Martin Click here for more information on TKMG Academy Click here to take a look at Karen Martin's books
S2 E33 · Tue, October 03, 2023
Training Within Industry with Jim Huntzinger
In this episode Jim Huntzinger and I discuss TWI, Toyota Kata, and their relation. What You'll Learn: 1. What is TWI? 2. Why is Toyota Kata important? 3. What is the relationship between TWI and Toyota Kata? 4. Why are TWI and Kata foundational skills? 5. Are TWI and Kata more than just front-line skills? 6. What role does coaching play in these fundamental skills? About the Guest: Jim Huntzinger began his career as a manufacturing engineer with Aisin Seiki, a Toyota Group company transplanted to North America to support Toyota. Next he joined Briggs & Stratton where he held positions in engineering, operations, and management working to implement and evolve lean into operational and business practices, and several plant design & development and startups. He also spent a number of years consulting with organizations ranging from small privately-held to huge-global corporations in a variety of industries. In 2005 Huntzinger founded Lean Frontiers, producing Summits and immersive workshops to build and expand the lean community. He has researched at length the evolution of manufacturing in the United States with an emphasis on lean’s influence and development. Links: Click here to connect with Jim Huntzinger Click here for more information on Lean Frontiers Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E31 · Tue, September 26, 2023
Quantum Lean with Dr. Michael Sanders and Sean Fields
In this episode, Dr. Michael Sanders, Sean Fields, and I explore Quantum Lean - its essence, unique steps, and origins - while uncovering why it stands as a beacon of progress in operational excellence. What You'll Learn: 1. Why Quantum Lean? 2. What is Quantum Lean? 3. What are Quantum Lean's key steps? 4. How is Quantum Lean different from other approaches? 5. How did Quantum Lean come about? About the Guest: Sean Fields, a 35-year industry veteran with experience in various sectors including oil field equipment manufacturing, food processing, and job shops, has a comprehensive background in all aspects of business, from the shop floor to quality, safety, and engineering. As a published author and contributor to numerous industry publications, including the co-authorship of "Quantum Lean," Fields brings a wealth of expertise to his approach. His adaptable and user-friendly methods for improving operations stem from a diverse range of environments, from mass production to custom shops, offering unique solutions to business challenges. Dr. Michael Sanders, co-founder of Beehivefund, leverages over 30 years of diverse industry experience - from welding apprentice to CEO in various sectors - to advise on business strategies. Teaming up with Sean Fields, they have honed their lean methods, consistently achieving proven success. Dr. Sanders, a sought-after expert in lean, six sigma, and quality systems, holds a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering, an MBA from Texas Tech University, and is a certified Six Sigma Master Black Belt. Links: Click here to learn more about Quantum Lean: Taking Lean Systems to the Next Level Click here for more information on Beehive Fund Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E31 · Tue, September 19, 2023
Japan Trip Reflections with Katie Anderson
In this episode, Katie Anderson and I discuss our trip to Japan, as we immersed ourselves in a profound exploration of lean principles and their practical applications. What You'll Learn: Reflections on Japan and our carefully planned itinerary, which included visits to well-known manufacturing facilities and conversations with experienced lean practitioners. About the Guest: Katie Anderson is an internationally recognized leadership and learning coach, consultant, and professional speaker, best known for inspiring individuals and organizations to lead with intention and increase their personal and professional impact. Katie is passionate about helping people around the world learn to lead and lead to learn by connecting purpose, process, and practice to achieve higher levels of performance. Her book Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn: Lessons from Toyota Leader Isao Yoshino on a Lifetime of Continuous Learning is an international #1 Amazon bestseller Links: Click here to learn more about Katie Anderson Click here for more information on Katie Anderson's books Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E30 · Tue, September 12, 2023
Stay Flowcused With Stéfany Oliver
In this episode, Stéfany Oliver and I discuss their Lean coaching journey, 'Staying Flowcused', and how wellness ties into Lean leadership. What You'll Learn: 1. How did you get into Lean coaching? 2. What are your current areas of focus? 3. Tell us more about your concept of Staying Flowcused and what it entails? 4. Bringing it back to Lean and leadership for a moment, tell me more about the links between wellness and Lean leadership? 5. What's next for you? About the Guest: Stéfany is driven by her passion for helping people who feel overwhelmed. She's on a mission to help people find flow: in their work, in their kitchen and in their heart. She lives and teaches the manifesto of being Fueled by plants, Fueled by perspective and Fueled by prayer. She's a Lean Management Coach by trade but didn't start off her professional career that way. Over the years, she's been coming into the full expression of who God has created her to be as a food creator, speaker, cookbook author and inspirational storyteller. She’s also been building her own health, wellness and optimization coaching business. Links: Click here to learn more about Stéfany Oliver Click here for more information on Stéfany's Book Click here to contact Stéfany Oliver Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E29 · Tue, September 05, 2023
DevSecOps And Lean With Glenn Wilson
In this episode, Glenn Wilson and I discuss DevSecOps, lean manufacturing in digital contexts, cybersecurity's evolution, total security, and building resilience in an uncertain world. What You'll Learn: What is DevSecOps and what is the problem it is trying to solve? What can digital organizations learn from lean manufacturing in relation to delivering high quality digital products? What should continual learning and improvement look like in cybersecurity? Can organizations become totally secure and provide products and services with zero defects? Can organizations become more resilient to cybersecurity threats in an uncertain world? About the Guest: Glenn is a management consultant specializing in DevOps, Agile, and security. He is founder of Dynaminet and holder of a CISSP. He is also the best-selling author of the book “DevSecOps: A leader’s guide to producing secure software without compromising flow, feedback and continuous improvement”. He is an experienced security professional who has worked for over 20 years in the IT industry across multiple sectors. Glenn focuses on strategy and employs systems thinking in practice to enable organizations to apply secure processes and principles across the organization to enrich their relationship with their customers. Links: Click here to connect with Glenn Wilson Click here for more information on Glenn's Books Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E28 · Tue, August 29, 2023
Lean and Agile With Tim Schipper
In this episode, Tim Schipper and I navigate the realms of Lean and Agile practices. Uncover the captivating aspects of Lean in action, explore the core intersections between Lean and Agile, and learn how these strategies can enhance development. What You'll Learn: 1. What do you appreciate about Lean the more it is practiced?. 2. What are the important similarities between Lean and Agile? 3. What is the central common element between Lean and Agile? 4. Can you apply Lean / Agile to development? 5. What is an important metric when applying Lean/Agile to development? About the Guest: Timothy Schipper is a graduate of Calvin College and the University of Michigan (Bachelors of Mechanical Engineering and Masters of Science). His career has spanned 40 years and includes time as a tool designer, engineering educator, engineer, IT manager, Lean expert, author, and Agile Transformation leader. He has led Lean transformations since 2003 in the areas of manufacturing, office processes, IT development, global product development, new business initiatives, government agencies, and non-profits. He is currently works for Steelcase Inc. of Grand Rapids MI. Timothy has written two books on the topic of Lean: Innovative Lean Development: How to Create, Implement, and Maintain a Learning Culture, and The Highly Effective Office: Creating a Successful Lean Culture in any Workplace Links: Click here to connect with Tim Schipper Click here for more information on Tim's Books Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E27 · Tue, August 22, 2023
Achieving Strategic Goals With Calvin Williams
In this episode, Calvin Williams and I delve into the essence of FIT, exploring its foundational premise and its role in guiding organizations. As our conversation unfolds, we unravel the relationship between FIT and Agile Strategy Execution, dissecting how these concepts synergize to empower organizations with the adaptability and strategic prowess needed in today's dynamic landscape. What You'll Learn: What is the premise of FIT? How does an organization become FIT? How does FIT work with Lean? What exactly is Agile Strategy Execution? What is the relationship between FIT and Agile Strategy Execution? About the Guest: Throughout his career, he has helped generate over $2.5B in cost savings and growth opportunities for some amazing organizations. This was done by applying sound principles of Industrial Engineering, Lean, Operations Leadership, and Respect for People. He works on the cutting edge of both Operational Excellence and technology and is also a SaaS founder who understands how to apply the latest developments in tech like AI, ML, IoT, VR/AR, Cloud, and many others to accelerate growth and Operational Excellence. Links: Click here for more information on Improver University Click here to connect with Calvin Williams Click here for "FIT: The Simple Science of Achieving Strategic Goals" Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E26 · Tue, August 15, 2023
The Red Bead Experiment with John Dyer
In this episode, John Dyer and I explore the insights gleaned from Dr. W. Edwards Deming's "Red Bead Experiment," the efficacy of hands-on visual teaching, and insights from "The Leadership Experiment." What You'll Learn: Dr. W. Edwards Deming performed the "Red Bead Experiment" in many of his classes. What were some of the lessons he was trying to share with his audience? What is the power behind using a hands-on, visual teaching technique, such as the Red Beads, to teach a difficult lesson? I understand that you have been developing an activity called "The Leadership Experiment." Can you describe what this activity is all about? What are some of the lessons learned? Can you share with our audience an idea you are working on regarding a Lean, team based process improvement competition that we may try and implement in 2024? About the Guest: John Dyer is an author, coach, and trainer with 39 years of experience in the field of improving processes. His recently published book “the Façade of Excellence; Defining a New Normal of Leadership” examines the four leadership styles required to move an organization’s culture to one of trust, collaboration, and teamwork. John started his career with General Electric and then worked his way up to a Corporate V.P. of Global Improvement at Ingersoll-Rand before starting his own consulting company. He has had the opportunity to study with several leaders in the continuous improvement field such as Dr. W. Edwards Deming, Brian Joiner, and Stephen Covey. Links: Click here for more information on "The Façade of Excellence" Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit Click here for registration and ticket information
S2 E25 · Tue, August 08, 2023
Coaching Kata With Dr. Jeff Liker
In this episode, Dr. Jeff Liker and I dive into the fascinating world of Kata coaching and explore the key concepts from his novel on the subject What You'll Learn: 1. What led you to write a novel with Tilo Schwarz? 2. For the listeners that do not know, what is kata coaching? 3. What did Tilo add about coaching to Mike Rother's 5 question card? 4. Why a novel about kata coaching? I understand that Tilo already published a book about the coaching microskills. 5. What would you like to hear from readers that would really excite you? About the Guest: Jeffrey K. Liker is Professor Emeritus, Industrial and Operations Engineering at The University of Michigan and President of Liker Lean Advisors, LLC. He is author of the best-selling book, The Toyota Way, Second Edition, and has coauthored nine other books about Toyota including The Toyota Way to Service Excellence, and The Toyota Way to Lean Leadership. His graphic novel with Eduardo Lander and Tom Root tells the story of lean transformation at a mail-order company: Lean in a High-Variability Business. His articles and books have won thirteen Shingo Prizes for Research Excellence. He was inducted into the Association of Manufacturing Excellence Hall of Fame and the Shingo Academy. Links: Click here for more information on "Giving Wings to Her Team: A Novel About Learning to Coach the Toyota Kata Way" Click here to connect with Jeff on LinkedIn Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E24 · Tue, August 01, 2023
Dr. Deming and Japan with John Willis
In this episode, John Willis and I discuss his upcoming book as well as key moments from our recent trip to Japan. What You'll Learn: 1.) John's upcoming book about Dr. Deming. 2.) Why Deming still matters today. 3.) What Mr. Yosino. said about Mr. Nemoto. 4.) What Mr. Youshino said about Dr. Deming. 5.) What were my favorite parts of Katie's Japan Study? About the Guest: John Willis is Senior Director of the Global Transformation Office at Red Hat Prior to Red Hat, he was the Director of Ecosystem Development for Docker, which he joined after the company he co-founded (SocketPlane, which focused on SDN for containers) was acquired by Docker in February 2015. Previous to founding SocketPlane in Fall 2014, John was the Chief DevOps Evangelist at Dell, which he joined following the Enstratius acquisition in May 2013. He has also held past executive roles at Chef and Canonical. John was one of the earliest cloud evangelists and is considered one of the founders of the Devops movement. John is the author of 7 IBM Redbooks. He is also the co-author of the “Devops Handbook” and “Beyond the Phoenix Project” along with author Gene Kim. Links: Click here for more information on Deming Click here to connect with John on LinkedIn Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E23 · Tue, July 25, 2023
The Mistakes That Make Us With Mark Graban
In this episode, Mark Graban and I discuss the value that comes from making mistakes and how learning from our mistakes is effective in lean culture. What You'll Learn: 1. What inspired you to write the book? 2. How does "learning from mistakes" fit into a Lean culture? 3. What is Psychological Safety and how can leaders create the conditions for it? 4. Examples from Toyota? A small software company like KaiNexus? 5. Why is it counterproductive to punish mistakes? About the Guest: Mark Graban is an author, speaker, and consultant, whose latest book, The Mistakes That Make Us: Cultivating a Culture of Learning and Innovation, was released in June. He is also the author of the award-winning book Lean Hospitals: Improving Quality, Patient Safety, and Employee Engagement and others, including Measures of Success: React Less, Lead Better, Improve. He serves as a consultant through his company, Constancy, Inc, and is also a Senior Advisor for the technology company KaiNexus. Mark hosts podcasts, including “Lean Blog Interviews” and “My Favorite Mistake.” Mark earned a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from Northwestern University, an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, and an M.B.A. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Leaders for Global Operations Program. Links: Click here for more information on Mark's book: The Mistakes That Make Us Click here to connect with Mark on LinkedIn Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E22 · Tue, July 18, 2023
Expanding CI Horizons With David Larsen
In this episode, David Larsen and I discuss respect for people, and CI in the office. What You'll Learn: 1. Share about your professional journey and background. 2. Tell me about your day job… 3. Recently you spoke at the Lean and Six Sigma World Conference in Orlando…. Why did you seek the speaking opportunity? 4. What do you think sets your work or approach apart from others in your field? 5. What brings you joy? About the Guest: David is a certified Planning and Scheduling Professional, certified Project Management Professional (PMP ®), Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, content creator, public speaker, writer, podcast guest and subject matter expert with more than 20 years of experience with projects, process improvement, data analytics, and facilitation across industries including government, manufacturing, healthcare, human resources, and finance. Links: Click here to connect with David Larsen on LinkedIn Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E21 · Tue, July 11, 2023
Tangled Environments With Ovidiu Contras
In this episode, Ovidiu Contras and I discuss tangled environments and how to work through them effectively. What You'll Learn: 1. What’s your Lean career path? 2. What’s a tangled environment? 3. What are the challenges in improving work in a tangled environment? 4. What helped in guiding teams to significantly improve work in the tangled environment? 5. VSM for non-repetitive work? How is that working? 6. Any recommendations for those wanting to try this in their business? About the Guest: Ovidiu Contras is a Lean Coach and Author. He has Authored 2 Books: Navigating the Lean Transformation and Untangling with VSM, both reflecting his own experiences. He has been involved in more than 20 years of Lean, as a continuous improvement employee. Links: Click here to connect with Ovidiu on LinkedIn Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E20 · Mon, July 03, 2023
The Magic Of SQCD With Paul Dunlop
In this episode, Paul Dunlop and I discuss the value of visual management and the effectiveness of an SQCD board. What You'll Learn: 1. What is the value of visual management? 2. What is an SQCD board? 3. What are the steps to developing a good SQCD board? 4. How do we know if our SQCD board is working? 5. What challenges have you experienced in rolling out SQCD boards with your clients? About the Guest: Paul brings with him over 20 years of management and manufacturing experience in a broad range of industries. In his operational management and consultancy roles Paul has led successful Lean implementation and transformations using the principles of the Toyota Production System. Links: Click here to connect with Paul on LinkedIn Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E19 · Tue, June 27, 2023
Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap
In this episode, The Lean Solutions Podcast host Patrick Adams discusses the ingredients necessary to fuel a mighty flame of continuous improvement in an organization as well as his book Avoiding The Continuous Appearance Trap, which received the Shingo publication award earlier this year. In the show notes, there is an article that Patrick wrote regarding the topics he speaks about in this episode. What You'll Learn: The Tinder Stability in processes and leadership. (You cannot improve chaos.) The vision must be clearly communicated. Standards, accountability, and expectations are clearly stated. Targets to achieve business goals are set. The Kindling Choose a high-value target area. Empower committed employees to change. Leaders enable action by removing roadblocks. Deploy structured problem solving. (Constant learning is the norm.) Generate small, simple improvements. Celebrate success on small wins. The Firewood Continuous and frequent “touches.” Hard work. Inspect what you expect. (Audit.) Sustain, replicate, and integrate the improvements. About the Speaker: Patrick is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment. Links: Click here for Patrick's Article Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E19 · Tue, June 20, 2023
Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap
In this episode, The Lean Solutions Podcast host Patrick Adams discusses the ingredients necessary to fuel a mighty flame of continuous improvement in an organization as well as his book Avoiding The Continuous Appearance Trap, which received the Shingo publication award earlier this year. In the show notes, there is an article that Patrick wrote regarding the topics he speaks about in this episode. What You'll Learn: The Tinder Stability in processes and leadership. (You cannot improve chaos.) The vision must be clearly communicated. Standards, accountability, and expectations are clearly stated. Targets to achieve business goals are set. The Kindling Choose a high-value target area. Empower committed employees to change. Leaders enable action by removing roadblocks. Deploy structured problem solving. (Constant learning is the norm.) Generate small, simple improvements. Celebrate success on small wins. The Firewood Continuous and frequent “touches.” Hard work. Inspect what you expect. (Audit.) Sustain, replicate, and integrate the improvements. About the Speaker: Patrick is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant and professional speaker. He is best known for his unique human approach to sound team building practices, creating consensus and enabling empowerment. Links: Click here for Patrick's Article Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/leansolutions/support
S2 E18 · Tue, June 13, 2023
CI Mindset With Chad Bareither
In this episode, Chad Bareither and I discuss the importance of a continuous improvement mindset. What You'll Learn: What is continuous improvement? Is a continuous improvement mindset anchored more in the hard skills (tools/systems) or the soft skills (behavior/thinking)? How does an organization get started with Continuous Improvement? How would that same organization sustain the benefits? What are some of the challenges you see in the world of Continuous Improvement? About the Guest: From an early career as a Quality Engineer, Chad Bareither quickly found his niche and passion in Continuous Improvement. Now, with years of experience as an internal change agent for larger organizations, including three Fortune 500 companies, he takes that operational excellence mindset beyond the “shop floor”. As the owner and principal consultant of Bareither Group Consulting, he enables continuous improvement through the application of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. Chad partners with his clients to clarify and deploy their strategy, make process improvements to achieve those goals, and establish a system for daily management of the business. Links: Click here to connect with Chad on LinkedIn Click here for more information on Bareither Group Consulting Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E17 · Tue, June 06, 2023
Early On The Journey With Tom Passaro
In this episode, Tom Passaro and I discuss him and his team's early lean journey, and the challenges and wins they have experienced. What You'll Learn: 1. Tell us about your company. 2. What products/services do you provide? 3. Who is your ideal customer? 4. Why did you decide to embark on your own lean journey? 5. What challenges have you had? 6. What have the results been? 7. What do you have to celebrate? About the Guest: Tom is the President and co-founder of Innovative Power Products, located in Long Island New York. He has been an entrepreneur for over 35 years in the RF and Microwave industry. Him and his team embarked on their Lean journey about 2 years ago. Links: Click here to connect with Tom on LinkedIn Tom Passaro's email: tpassaro@innovativepp.com Click here for more information on Innovative Power Products Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E16 · Tue, May 30, 2023
PI at The State of Nebraska with Matthew Singh
In this episode, Matthew Singh and I discuss PI initiatives and programs as well as positively influencing culture. What You'll Learn: 1. What do you think are some important elements of a successful PI program? 2. How does one go about impacting positive cultural change? 3. What insights can you provide about the sustainability of a program? 4. What's been your greatest challenge in your PI endeavors? 5. What has been your greatest win in the PI endeavors? About the Guest: Matt Singh is the Director of Operational Excellence and Master Black Belt for the Department of Administrative Services in the state of Nebraska. Over the last 20 years he has previously served in a variety of progressive management roles including sales & service, operations, and supply chain. He is certified as a Master Black Belt in Six Sigma, Master Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma, Certified Lean Sensei, and holds the Project Management Professional (PMP) credential. Links: Click here to explore Nebraska's Center Of Operations Page Matthew Singh's email: matthew.singh@nebraska.gov Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E15 · Tue, May 23, 2023
Patient Care With Ken Segel
In this episode, Ken Segel and I discuss the importance of continuous improvement principles as they apply to patient care. What You'll Learn: 1. Can you tell me a little bit about Value Capture’s mission and history so our listeners can get a sense for your work in healthcare, and how your firm combines leading with safety and Toyota Production System principles or lean? 2. How about your personal story? How did you get connected to this mission? 3. Can you say a little bit more about the state of lean in healthcare? What challenges are you seeing? What are your health system clients doing to try to break through? How are you advising them? 4. How about the current state of safety in healthcare? There have been some scary headlines recently about patient safety not having progressed much in 20 years … 5. Last summer we both spoke at a conference where in a keynote you and Mark Graban announced that this is an ideal time for folks in any industry to grab WORKFORCE SAFETY as an imperative to revive or strengthen lean journeys. Can you say why? 6. Where do you think the Operational Excellence movement should go next, to move deeper into the work and not risk being a series of the latest flavors of the month? About the Guest: Ken is the Chief Executive Officer and a co-founder of Value Capture. In this role as CEO, Ken provides support to CEOs of healthcare organizations dedicated to eliminating injuries and improving quality as a means to dramatically raise the clinical and financial performance of the entire institution. Prior to forming Value Capture, Ken served as the founding director of the Pittsburgh Regional Healthcare Initiative (PRHI). PRHI achieved best-in-nation regional results in the elimination of several classes of risk for patients. Before helping to create PRHI, Ken served for five years as Senior Program Officer at the Jewish Healthcare Foundation of Pittsburgh , where he guided many community health improvement initiatives and initiated the Foundation's formal public policy program. Earlier in his career, he served as an aide to the leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives, directed the overnight operations in the 1992 Clinton-Gore presidential campaign “War Room,” and served as Policy Director and speechwriter for the Democratic Party. He also taught political organizing and election monitoring in Ukraine and Russia. He is also a Certified Facilitator of the Shingo Institute. Links: Click here to connect with Ken Segel Ken Segel's email: Ksegel@valuecapturellc.com Click here for more information on the "Leading
S2 E14 · Tue, May 16, 2023
Sustainability: Clear Benefits With Adam Lawrence
In this episode, Adam Lawrence and I discuss the Wheel of Sustainability and its elements. What You'll Learn: 1. Which element of the Wheel of Sustainability do you find most challenging for your Kaizen teams to engage with and why? 2. How do you help your Kaizen teams deal with this element (Clear Benefits) 3. What are you trying to accomplish with this element during a Kaizen event? 4. Do you have some stories how using this element of the Wheel of Sustainability helped avert or avoid problems? 5. How does Leadership Commitment support and work with this element? About the Guest: Adam Lawrence is the Managing Partner of Process Improvement Partners, LLC. He has 30+ years of experience in process improvement activities, targeted at manufacturing and business processes. Having facilitated 300+ Kaizen events in multiple industries around the world, Adam aligns with leadership, engages teams, and creates sustainable results. Adam is also the author of The Wheel of Sustainability. Links: Click here to connect with Adam Lawrence Click Here to learn more about the Wheel of Sustainability Click here for the Process Improvement Partners LLC Website Click Here for Adam Lawrence's YouTube Channel Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E12 · Tue, May 09, 2023
Lean Mindset With Mike Leigh
In this episode, Mike Leigh and I discuss the application of lean as well as the implementation of a lean mindset within organizations. What You'll Learn: 1. Can you describe your Lean journey so far? 2. How has your attitude toward the application of Lean changed? 3. What is your approach to helping companies move forward on their Lean journey? 4. You're not a big fan of Six Sigma. Why is that? 5. What advice would you give to Lean practitioners who want to make a difference in their organizations? About the Guest: Mike Leigh is the President of OpX Solutions, a performance improvement company that helps manufacturers remove the barriers that prevent them from achieving their goals by developing leaders and improving processes. Prior to starting his company, Mike had a 13-year manufacturing career where he held a variety of operational supply chain leadership roles. Prior to that, he served in the US Navy as a surface warfare officer where he specialized in nuclear propulsion, and later retired as a Commander in the reserves. Links: Click here to connect with Mike Leigh Click Here to learn more about Opx Solutions Click here for the OpX Solutions YouTube page Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E11 · Tue, May 02, 2023
Build A Storytelling Culture With Rich Sheridan
In this episode, Rich Sheridan and I discuss the impacts of implementing a culture of storytelling. What You'll Learn: 1. Why are you called the Chief Storyteller at Menlo? 2. Why is storytelling such an important part of your company's culture? 3. What kinds of stories are relevant to tell? 4. How do you curate stories? 5. How do you build a storytelling culture? About the Guest: Rich Sheridan, CEO and Chief Storyteller at Menlo Innovations, is a successful entrepreneur and author of two best-selling books—Joy Inc.: How We Built Workplace People Love and Chief Joy Officer: How Great Leaders Elevate Human Energy and Eliminate Fear. Rich’s passion for inspiring organizations to create their own joy-filled cultures has led him to address audiences across the world—through four continents and 18 countries (and counting) as well as throughout the United States. Links: Click here to learn more about Rich Sheridan Click Here to learn more about Menlo Innovations Click here for more information on Rich Sheridan's books Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E11 · Tue, April 25, 2023
Cultures Of Continuous Improvement With Katie Anderson
In this episode, Katie Anderson and I discuss a culture of excellence through continuous improvement during a pre-recorded webinar. What You'll Learn: 1. What are the ingredients that make up a culture of excellence? 2. In cultures of CI, what does it mean to “learn, lead, and care”? 3. Can you share your favorite story from Mr. Yoshino that exemplifies a culture of CI? 4. Why do you do the Japan study trip? 5. What will we see that backs up how the Japanese culture played a part in Toyota’s success? About the Guest: Katie Anderson is an internationally recognized leadership and learning coach, consultant, and professional speaker, best known for inspiring individuals and organizations to lead with intention and increase their personal and professional impact. Katie is passionate about helping people around the world learn to lead and lead to learn by connecting purpose, process, and practice to achieve higher levels of performance. Her book Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn: Lessons from Toyota Leader Isao Yoshino on a Lifetime of Continuous Learning is an international #1 Amazon bestseller Links: Click here to learn more about Katie Anderson Click here for more information on Katie Anderson's books Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E10 · Tue, April 18, 2023
Wins And Challenges In Lean MFG With Toby Curry
In this episode, Toby Curry and I discuss lean process implementation in an organization as well as factors that can contribute to failure in a lean practice system. What You'll Learn: 1. Can you give us some background on who you are and some of your work experience? 2. Lean manufacturing practices have been around for decades. Throughout the life of Lean Practices, the demand for these skills and practices has been cyclical. Why do you feel there is or should be a heightened awareness or attraction to Lean practices in today's climate? 3. Can you give us an example of a lean process implementation that your organization has benefited from? 4. What do you feel is the largest factor that contributes to failed lean initiatives in manufacturing facility? 5. If you could go back now and impart some wisdom to yourself before you started practicing lean initiatives, what would it be? About the Guest: Toby Curry serves as the director of operations for Coastal Automotive, a Tier-1 global automotive safety component manufacturer, where he is responsible for operational P&L, continuous improvement, production, logistics and quality. Toby has spent over 20 years in the automotive manufacturing industry, with 10 of those years in executive leadership. He’s passionate about making a positive difference for customers, community, and employees through building a great workplace culture. A US Navy Submarine Veteran, prior to joining Coastal, Toby served in various roles including process engineering, continuous improvement, and production supervision. He earned his bachelor’s in mechanical engineering from Grand Valley State University and a certificate in executive management from the University of Notre Dame. Links: Click here for Toby Curry's LinkedIn To Contact Toby Curry Directly: toby.curry@coastal-automotive.com Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E9 · Tue, April 11, 2023
Improve Everything With Katie Labedz
In this episode, Katie Labedz and I discuss trends and ways to become successful in terms of a person's CI journey as well as improving everything in every process. What You'll Learn: 1. Tell us about your new book "How to Improve Absolutely Every Process" 2. What trends are you seeing in the CI space? 3. Why are people hesitant to start or restart their CI journey? 4. Why do most CI journeys fail? 5. How can people set themselves up for success in their CI journey and where to start? About the Guest: Katie Labedz is the President of Learning to Lean, LLC. She is a certified Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt and Project Management Professional. She has been practicing Lean, Six Sigma and Project Management concepts for over 20 years. She has a diverse background that includes manufacturing, materials, supply chain, HR and IT in the automotive and electronic industries. Katie makes it her professional goal to expose the genius in all of her students. She has also authored two books: "How to Improve Absolutely Anything-Continuous Improvement in Your Home, Office and Family Life" and "How to Improve Absolutely Every Process-Kaizen for process improvement and fun." Links: Click here for more information on Katie Labedz Click here for Katie's New Book Click here for the Kaizen "Go" Bundle Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E8 · Tue, April 04, 2023
Lean Learning Culture With Tony Hayes
In this episode, Tony Hayes and I discuss ways to create a lean learning culture through an organizations atmosphere and leadership platforms. What You'll Learn: 1. What is the definition of a good Lean “Learning Culture? 2. What are the challenges to creating this type of atmosphere within an organization? 3. What role does Leadership play in facilitating or creating the platform for learning? 4. Can you share some examples of how you have done this at your current company or others from your past experiences? 5. What advice would you give our listeners as the consider creating their own Learning Culture within their organizations? About the Guest: Tony is an Executive Lean Leader, responsible for the Wabash Management System, Continuous Improvement and Quality at Wabash, supporting the CEO and the Executive Leadership Team, driving customer value creation. He has extensive experience in delivering profitable growth, improving risk profile, and increasing return on invested capital in the automotive, transportation, aerospace and defense industries. Tony is a seasoned operations and lean expert with extensive experience in strategy and organizational governance. Tony has utilized his lean expertise to assist organizations with their most complex problems in manufacturing, engineering, material planning and logistics, value chain management, and quality. Links: Click here for Tony Hayes' LinkedIn To Contact Tony Hayes Directly: dhayes3396@gmail.com Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E7 · Tue, March 28, 2023
Robust Training Programs With Steve Johnson
In this episode, Steve Johnson and I discuss training paths and employee tools when it comes to a robust training program. You'll also here how a robust training program can help reduce employee turn-over. What You'll Learn: Why did you start a training program for technicians? What does the training path look like for a technician? Does an employee need any experience or certifications to start this program? Does the employee need any tools? How long will it take to complete this program? About the Guest: Steve Johnson has over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry. He served as a certified technician at a local Gm dealership for about 8 years. Steve's work ethic was unmatched, which is what earned him a position as a Service Advisor. Eventually, when a service manager position became available, Steve was asked to grab the metaphorical reigns and lead the service team to achieve an unprecedented level of customer service and shop performance. To achieve this, Steve had to develop a service team that would exceed his level of expectations for professional business and work culture needed to create the best service team Berger has ever had. The dealership has received GM dealer of the year award 11 times and has continued to break multiple financial records year after year. Links: Click here for more information on Steve Joh nson To Contact Steve Johnson Directly: sjohnson@bergerchevy.com Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E6 · Tue, March 21, 2023
Improving Healthcare With Tanya Stinson
In this episode, Tanya Stinson and I discuss the impacts of costly wastes and modern technology as well as one of healthcare's number one problems: communication. What You'll Learn: What are a few of the most costly wastes in healthcare currently? If there was one thing that you could change in healthcare right away, what would it be? Do you feel like healthcare organizations are siloed? Do you think technology can help with the issues we have impacting patients in healthcare today? What is an improvement in healthcare that costs nothing to implement? About the Guest: Tanya is the Founder of Leaning Towards Change, LLC. Tanya is an Experienced Leader in the Healthcare industry where she is responsible for Performance Improvement, Quality, Risk, Patient Safety, and Compliance. She serves as a Mentor and Coach to Physicians, Nurses, and other clinical and non-clinical staff in utilizing the Lean and Six Sigma Methodology. Links: Click here for Tanya Stinson's Linkedin Click here to learn more about Leaning Towards Change Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E5 · Tue, March 14, 2023
The Importance Of Standard Work In The Digital Age With Tom Hughes
In this episode, Tom Hughes and I discuss the extensive experience Tom has gained helping hundreds of organizations across the world do standard work / digital work instructions better with his software product GembaDocs. What You'll Learn: 1. How did the whole GembaDocs thing happen? 2. How can you say it’s a Game Changer? That’s a pretty big claim! 3. Why is OWNERSHIP so important with Standards? 4. Why / how can we implement standards in a more intelligent way? 5. Improvement Starts With I ; GembaDocs – how do people access them? About the Guest: Tom Hughes is an Ireland-based entrepreneur and the author of "Improvement Starts With I." He is the creator of GembaDocs, a software company that assists businesses in creating quick, simple, and digital standard work practices. Tom is currently a partner in Lumen Electronics, an Irish business that develops and manufactures products. Links: Click here for more information on Tom Hughes Click here for more information on GembaDocs Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E4 · Tue, March 07, 2023
The Danaher Business System With Mark Deluzio
In this episode, Mark Deluzio and I discuss the Danaher business system, as well as the art of Lean Transformation. What You'll Learn: Why do Lean Transformations fail? Could you explain the importance of having a business strategy and the ability to deploy/execute the strategy. What made the Danaher Business System so successful? As the "Father of Lean Accounting," how important is it to change the accounting systems when embarking on a Lean Transformation? What role does Respect for People play in the success of a Lean Transformation About the Guest: Mark DeLuzio is Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Lean Horizons Consulting. He is also a former Corporate Officer and Vice President of Danaher Business System (DBS) for Danaher Corporation. Danaher has been recognized as the leading implementer of Lean globally and has been rated as the 3rd most profitable US stock over the last 30 years. Mark is also credited with developing the first Lean Accounting process in the United States for Danaher’s Jake Brake Division, where he served as their Chief Financial Officer. Mark is the author of “Turn Waste into Wealth,” which offers practical advice for those considering a Lean transformation and “Flatlined – Why Lean Transformations Fail and What to do About It”, which offers the lessons learned from Mark’s association with hundreds of Lean transformations on a global basis. Links: Click here for more information on Mark Deluzio Click here to order one of Mark Deluzio's books Click here for Mark Deluzio's Podcast Click here for more information on B.R.A.V.E. Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E3 · Tue, February 28, 2023
The Problem of Classical Management with Bob Emiliani
In this episode, Bob Emiliani and I discuss the problem of classical management. What You'll Learn: What is classical management? You put together an A3 and challenged lean practitioners. Can you tell our listeners what is an A3? What were the root cause results of the A3 investigation? What are your suggested solutions? Any new books in your future? About the Guest: Dr. Bob Emiliani has been a Lean practitioner and professor of Lean management for over 25 years. Prior joining academia, he worked in industry for 15 years and had management responsibility in engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain management. He was the first academic to establish a research agenda focused on Lean leadership, resulting in numerous publications and varied leadership development workshops. His work on Lean leadership and Lean as applied to higher education are widely recognized. Links: Click here for more information on Bob Emiliani Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E2 · Tue, February 21, 2023
Kata is for Everyone with Sam Morgan
In this episode, Sam Morgan and I discuss his personal journey into launching his coaching business to include his personal use of kata to make it happen. We discuss the use of kata for both business and personal applications. What You'll Learn: How did you get to the point of starting your own coaching business? You don't have any lean certifications (LSSMB) or coaching certifications (ICF) What makes you feel like you are qualified to coach lean and ops leaders? You talk to lots of lean and ops leaders, what's the biggest challenge you are hearing that they face on a daily basis? What do you feel like we need to do to solve this challenge? What does continuous improvement mean to you? About the Guest: Sam Morgan is a self-proclaimed “confident learner.” After spending the past five years of work in the continuous improvement space he landed at KataCon, a conference for continuous improvement professionals who practice the Toyota Kata. There he had a powerful moment realizing where his true passion lies: transforming people through coaching. Links: Click here for Sam's Linkedin Page Click here for Sam's Webpage Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E1 · Tue, February 14, 2023
Humanist Manufacturing with Dr. Joe Sprangel
In this episode, Dr. Joe Sprangel and I discuss Humanist Manufacturing. Joe explains the Humanist Manufacturing Framework to include the humanist commitments necessary for leader success. What You'll Learn: What is Humanist Manufacturing? Could you share the phases of your humanist manufacturing framework? What are the humanist commitments you used as the foundation of your framework? The second phase is focused on the leader and the leadership team. Why is this important? It appears that you have a strong emphasis on creating a human-centric organization. What does this mean to you? About the Guest: Dr. Joe Sprangel is an associate professor of business at Mary Baldwin University. He is also the founder and principal consultant of Emmanuel Strategic Sustainability. He made the transition to higher education after 28 years of industry experience. His industry career included work in machine build and repair, machine design, manufacturing engineering, and plant and engineering management. Links: Click here to purchase a copy of Joe's book on Amazon Click here for Joe's Website Click here for The Lean Solutions Summit
S2 E113 · Sun, February 12, 2023
A Look at 2022 and our 'WHY.' Season Two Kicks Off This Tuesday!
The wait is over....Its finally time for Season Two! Listen in for background on The Lean Solutions Podcast, as well as impact metrics from this past year. Season Two kicks off this Tuesday with Dr. Joe Sprangel. Season Two includes video and audio for every episode. Tune in every Tuesday with some returning and some new guests. Find all episodes on your favorite podcast platform or go to www.findleansolutions.com and click on 'podcast.'
S1 E112 · Tue, December 20, 2022
Lean Product and Process Development Events
In this episode, I am presenting our teams approach to lean product and process development events. This was a presentation I gave at the LPPDE virtual conference last month. You may be wondering why we haven't been posting regular episodes...we are preparing to launch season two this next year. Stay tuned for more amazing podcasts as we kick off the new year. About the LPPDE: The Lean Product and Process Development Exchange, Inc. is a nonprofit organization created to foster opportunities to grow and share the knowledge, expertise and experiences that help organizations use lean product development to dramatically improve product development performance. The LPPDE conferences are organized roughly yearly in both Europe and North America. These conferences are the motor for the flow of knowledge about lean in the product development context. We explicitly call our conferences "Exchange" - because that is what we think is the best moderator for learning: listen, experts, see peers, discuss, learn from best practices from others and participate in workshops, that are offered at introductory as well as advanced level. Many participants of LPPDE conferences return because they know: whenever I visit an LPPDE conference, I am sure I will return with a high number of great ideas, excellent examples, and practical tips to continue my journey on the lean path in product development. Check them out at www.lppde.org
S1 E111 · Tue, November 29, 2022
How to Attract and Retain Employees
In this episode of The Lean Solutions Podcast, I met with Craig Tedrow, Tina Pietrangelo, and Mark Schmidt to discuss the current workforce challenges in hiring and retaining employees. About the Guests: Craig Tedrow is an experienced Continuous Improvement Professional with a demonstrated history of working in the automotive, aerospace, and defense industry. Skilled in Training Coordination, Continuous Improvement, Team Building, Presentation Skills, and Conflict Management. Strong professional with an Associate's degree focused in Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services from Grand Rapids Community College. Most recently managed the Continuous Improvement department at Plasan Carbon Composites. During exponential growth developed a week long training curriculum to provide a mix of lecture and lab instruction to on board new associates. Intensely involved in training and adherence to Standard Work Instructions using video technology, and Training Within Industry methods. Strong relationships with engineering, operations, maintenance, and facilities, helped to advance implementation of robotics and automation. Tina Pietrangelo is the Plant Manager at Pliant Plastics overseeing Manufacturing Operations. Pilant is a Plastics Injection Molding company and employs 120 members. She has lived in the Holland area for over 30 years and is currently on the board of Escape Ministries and formerly has served on the boards of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holland and Ready for School. Prior to joining Pliant, Tina held positions as Plant Manager within the office furniture industry and has held Human Resources positions for a recycling company and automotive interior company. She is also an owner/investor of some restaurants in West Michigan. Mark Schmidt is the founder of BizStream, a custom software and web development company. With more than 20 years of experience in custom software, website development, and content management systems (CMS), Mark grew the business from one to 33 employees, plus contractors, in 17 years. He has managed purchase of new building, renovations, and furnishings for growing team and is a global leader in chosen web technology, Kentico CMS; top 3 partners of 1,100 total Kentico partners; Kentico Gold Partner with competencies in intranet, integration, training, EMS, mobile, and ecommerce; Kentico certified developer.
S1 E110 · Tue, November 15, 2022
Trust-Based Leadership and Marine Corps Leadership with Mike Ettore
In this episode, Mike Ettore and I discuss leadership concepts from the military and how they can help in the corporate world. What You'll Learn: Trust-Based Leadership Marine Corps Core Value Military Leadership concepts in the corporate world About the Guest: Mike has served in leadership roles for over 45 years. He’s earned a reputation for being an exceptionally effective leader and is known for achieving superior results in a wide range of challenging environments. In addition to having retired as a Marine Corps Infantry officer and decorated combat leader, he also served successfully as a C-level executive in Kforce, Inc. (NASDAQ: KFRC), a publicly traded professional services firm with annual revenue in excess of $1 Billion. While serving as Chief Services Officer, Mike was responsible for the majority of Kforce’s corporate support departments and functions, including Human Resources, Information Technology, the Program Management Office, Marketing and Social Media, Procurement, Corporate Real Estate and the domestic and Manila-based Financial Shared Services teams. He also served as the executive sponsor for strategic planning and most of the logistical activities associated with the integration of acquired companies and the divestiture of organic business units. Over the course of his Marine Corps and business careers, Mike was highly regarded for being an exceptionally effective mentor and developer of leaders. After retiring from Kforce in 2013, Mike founded Fidelis Leadership Group and has devoted himself to his greatest passion, helping others develop into World Class Leaders. He has successfully coached and mentored executives and senior leaders from a wide range of industries and is sought after for his expertise in all aspects of leadership development and the creation of leadership training programs. In addition to being a lifelong student of leadership, Mike has earned Master’s degrees in Business Administration and Management. He is also the author of four books devoted to the topics of leadership and leadership development. Important Links: Website: http://fidelisleadership.com/ Podcast: https://www.fidelisleadership.com/podcast Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeettore/ Mike’s Books: https://amzn.to/3qmEoSq Email: mike.ettore@fidelisleadership.com
S1 E109 · Tue, November 08, 2022
'The Toyota Engagement Equation' with Ernie and Tracey Richardson [Throwback]
I am still travelling. In this episode, I replay a webinar with Ernie and Tracey Richardson as we discuss their book, 'The Toyota Engagement Equation' and the many learnings from working with Toyota over 30 years.
S1 E108 · Tue, November 01, 2022
The Fuel Needed to Spark and Maintain a Continuous Improvement Culture [ThrowBack]
I am currently travelling so I wanted to post this throwback episode where I discuss the fuel needed to spark and maintain a continuous improvement culture. Enjoy.
S1 E107 · Tue, October 25, 2022
Embrace Disruption at AME Dallas 2022
This past week, Lean Solutions was a proud sponsor for the AME international Conference in Dallas. Craig Johnson and I were there to attend, exhibit, network, and record some great interviews for the podcast. During this episode, I was able to catch up with the Conference Chair, Dan McDonnell, as well as many other attendees and speakers of the conference. We discussed learnings, takeaway's, and tour/workshop ahha moments. About AME: The Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME), is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1985 dedicated to helping companies with continuous improvement and their pursuit of excellence. Whether looking to learn about lean manufacturing or one of the continuous improvement tools like value stream mapping, kaizen, lean supply chain, lean new product development, lean accounting, or leadership of lean transformation you've come to the right place. AME is practitioner based which means our events and workshops are hands-on and taught by others who have “been there” and want to share their experiences. Visit our site to obtain more information on all of our educational opportunities or join AME and start receiving the many benefits of membership. Make sure to mark your calendars for AME 2023! 🎸The Place: Cleveland, Ohio 🎸Dates: October 30 – November 2, 2023 🎸Theme: ReImagining Excellence 🎼Theme Song: Don’t Stop Belevin’ by Journey Important Links: https://www.ame.org/ame-cleveland-2023 https://ame.org/ https://www.benderinc.com/ https://www.va.gov/long-beach-health-care/ https://www.raymondcorp.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-dyer-75a646
S1 E106 · Tue, October 18, 2022
Intangible Character Traits with Elisabeth Swan
In this episode, Elisabeth Swan and I discuss the intangibles when it comes to leading others. Elisabeth is the president of Swan Consulting & Associates, Inc., and co-founder of the Just-In-Time Café. She’s the co-author of the Problem-Solver’s Toolkit: A Surprisingly Simple Guide to Your Lean Six Sigma Journey, and has been helping clients drive change for decades. She’s a Master Black Belt, Speaker, Coach and Lean Six Sigma consultant with a focus on leveraging people to build vibrant problem-solving cultures. Today, we discussed her new book titled, "Picture Yourself a Leader: Illustrated Micro-lessons in Navigating Change" which will be published in just a few months. What You'll Learn: What do you mean by "intangibles" in terms of process improvement? Why do people struggle with intangibles? Do you have an example(s)? What are some root causes? What are some actions people can take? About the Guest: Elisabeth has been working as a business process improvement consultant and change leader for over 30 years. She specializes in process-based organization design, problem solving, Lean Six Sigma and change management for blue chip clients. Her client engagements focus on working with leadership and leveraging the talents of internal project managers and teams in achieving strategic goals. The track records of these engagements consistently showcase measurable improvement. Elisabeth's industry experience includes healthcare, hospitality, financial services, insurance, telecommunications, energy and technology. Specialties: - Process Improvement Program Design - Lean Six Sigma - Coaching - Training Design and Implementation - Leadership Coaching - Improvement Team Training - Large Group Facilitation - Facilitation and Communication Skills Important Links: To get updates on when the book comes out: http://eepurl.com/hWMUtH To buy the Problem-Solver’s Toolkit (scroll to the bottom): https://www.jitcafe.com/services https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisabethswan/
S1 E105 · Tue, October 11, 2022
Problem Solving and Lean Training with Craig Johnson
In this episode, Craig Johnson and I discuss the importance of structured problem solving and the power of a robust training program. What You'll Learn: Why should organizations adopt a structured problem solving process? Some of Craig's favorite problem solving tools. Why should people pursue lean training? What does good lean training look like? What does the future of lean training look like? About the Guest: Craig Johnson is a leadership professional with a diverse background in engineering, manufacturing, and talent development. He is passionate about bringing attainable, available, applicable, and affordable Lean Six Sigma training and certification to the entire world. He founded the Utah Lean Six Sigma Training Center and is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. Craig is now the Director of the Lean Solutions Academy and Community. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigjohnson-lssbb-cmfgt/ https://www.findleansolutions.com/academy/ Email cjohnson@patrickadamsconsulting.com
S1 E104 · Tue, October 04, 2022
Lean Construction with Kevin Gausch
In this episode of The Lean Solutions Podcast, Kevin Gausch and I discuss lean applied in different industries. Specifically, the construction industry. His knowledge and stories help explain how lean can be applied outside manufacturing when practitioners truly understand the principles of continuous improvement. About the Guest: As a Certified Manager of Quality and Organizational Excellence through ASQ with a focus on the construction industry, Kevin has set himself apart as an expert in quality management. In the past 30 years, his experience includes Quality and Project Management in the utility contractor space and the construction industry. He’s worked hands-on across all areas, from foreman to the c-suite, and witnessed the difference that technology can make to help working teams get better every day. Skilled in managing complicated processes that involve many stakeholders, Kevin’s global team is dedicated to sharing their hands-on experience to drive success in digital transformation and ultimately raise the bar for frontline teams. What You'll Learn: How do you apply lean principles in construction? Best practices and tips and tricks for lean process improvement in operations The role of technology and digitization in lean process improvement. The impact of technology on process effectiveness. Links: https://safetyculture.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevingausch/
S1 E103 · Tue, September 27, 2022
Developing a Lean Culture - Lean Leadership Week
In this episode, I am playing a recording of my speaking event last week at Lean Leadership Week for Lean Frontiers. Lean Leadership Week is an annual gathering of those seeking to learn, implement, and sustain successful lean transformations in order to address some of the most common challenges in lean organizations. The Summit highlights companies who are addressing these challenges through Lean Accounting, Lean HR, Lean Management, and Lean People Development. My presentation was titled: Developing a Lean Culture. During the presentation, I discuss the three simple areas that need attention in order to achieve a true culture of continuous improvement. I also present a model to adopt understanding in change management. Finally, I challenged the listeners with three questions: 1. Do you have a long-term vision? 2. Have you developed expectations for behaviors? 3. Is it safe for your employees to fail? Links: https://leanfrontiers.com/2022-virtual-lean-leadership-week/ https://leanfrontiers.com/
S1 E102 · Tue, September 20, 2022
Fake Lean with Bob Emiliani
In this episode I was able to have Bob Emiliani back for a second time to discuss many topics to include his views on 'Fake Lean.' What You'll Learn: What is Fake Lean? Findings of an Ongoing Root Cause Analysis on Lean Transformation Failures Research studies Bob is currently working on What is Bob's favorite topic to discuss? About the Guest: Dr. Bob Emiliani is an accomplished author whose work spans three disciplines: engineering, social sciences, and humanities. He has authored or co-authored 45 peer-reviewed papers in six different subject areas (leadership, management, management history, supply chain management, higher education, and materials engineering) and is the author or co-author of 22 books. Important Links: BobEmiliani.com https://bobemiliani.com/book/triumph-classical-management/ https://bobemiliani.com/book/irrational-institutions/ https://bobemiliani.com/book/management-mysterium/
S1 E101 · Tue, September 13, 2022
Core Pillars to an Op Ex Journey with Paul Deane
In this episode, Paul Deane and I discuss his three core pillars to an operational excellence journey. What You'll Learn: Three Core Pillars of an operational excellence journey. The biggest drivers for an organization to adopt Lean. The biggest challenges organizations face when embarking on a Lean journey. Paul's biggest 'win' he has seen organizations achieve having implemented effective Lean. How do you get buy-in for Lean? About The Guest: Paul Deane has over 25 years working with large global organizations all over the world leading manufacturing and service operations, and successfully deploying business improvement methodologies. An innovative continuous Improvement practitioner, with strengths in operationalizing LEAN systems, ISO9001, manufacturing best practice and DMAIC projects. CSSC/ISSP certified 6 Sigma Black and Green Belts. Over 15+ years implementing OPEX systems from zero base within global organizations with strong insight into engaging front line staff. His operational, service and manufacturing experience has covered chemical, industrial and food industries. Paul also spoke at the Virtual Lean Summit 2022. Important Links: Paul Deane | LinkedIn YouTube
S1 E100 · Tue, September 06, 2022
Throwback with Nigel Thurlow
Today is a replay of a conversation I had with Nigel Thurlow, a leading expert on Lean and Agile approaches. Nigel advises companies on successful transformation strategies and how to achieve effective and lasting change. As the chief agile at Toyota connected, he established the Toyota agile Academy and is also the co-author of The Flow System. In this episode, Nigel and I talk about Agile, how it relates to Lean and the flow from scientific thinking to Agile into the flow system. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Nigel’s background in Lean and Agile The challenges with bringing Agile into Toyota The differences between Japan and the western world with executive leadership The scientific method and why it’s so important The challenges when only dealing with deductive reasoning PDCA and Scrum Agile, what it is and how it differs and relates to Lean How Agile and Lean flow into the flow system About the Guest: Nigel Thurlow is the former Chief of Agile at Toyota, creator of the World Agility Forum award-winning ‘Scrum the Toyota Way’ approach, and the co-creator of The Flow System™. He is also a Forbes top 10 noted author for his work as co-author of the book on The Flow System and is a well-known Keynote Speaker. He also co-authors The Flow Guide. Nigel is an internationally recognized expert in the Toyota Production System and The Toyota Way as well as Lean Thinking, Agile, Scrum, and Complexity concepts. In addition to his work at Toyota in recent years he has also taught and coached at Vodafone, Banco Popular, GE, Bose, 3M, Microsoft, University of North Texas, and to the faculty at MIT. Nigel also presents regularly for The Lean Institute at their events and is considered a leading expert in bridging the Lean and Agile worlds following his pioneering work at Toyota. As a Professional Scrum Trainer, the first one ever in Toyota, and the first to have been certified by both the creators of Scrum, he has trained over 8000 people worldwide as of 2021. Nigel is extensively published online and has co-authored several peer reviewed white papers and journal publications on team science. He acts as an advisor on several boards at the University of North Texas as well as contributing to Chief Executive Magazine. Nigel currently serves as the CEO of The Flow Consortium, and as an interim executive with several high-profile brands advising executive leadership teams on lean and agile strategies in complex business and organizational design environments. Important Links: https://flowguides.org/ https://www.getflowtrained.com/ https://www.ama
S1 E99 · Tue, August 30, 2022
The Digital Age of Lean with Paul Dunlop
In this episode, Paul Dunlop and I discuss the importance of daily management systems and structures as well as the digitalization in and of lean management systems. This is Paul's third time on the show. What You'll Learn: The importance of Daily management systems and structures Digitization in / of Lean The importance of leader standard work About The Guest: Paul brings with him over 20 years of management and manufacturing experience in a broad range of industries. In his operational management and consultancy roles Paul has led successful Lean implementation and transformations using the principles of the Toyota Production System. Paul’s passion for operational excellence using Lean tools and methodology has helped drive sustained continuous improvement and financial performance at many companies. Paul’s “people centered” approach is to engage the ongoing support and commitment of both shop floor staff and senior management through effective Lean leadership and to facilitate inclusive problem solving cultures. Paul is a team player with an understanding of business priorities and committed to managing high performing teams and delivering projects to meet targets. Demonstrated ability to influence and change workplace cultures and develop capability in employees to implement and sustain continuous improvement methodologies long term. Effective implementation of Lean cultures in both greenfield and established organizations, with a passion for engaging, coaching and developing people at all levels of the organization by utilizing Lean tools and Lean thinking. Paul specializes in: * Lean Enterprise and Strategic Planning * Change management * Grass roots "bottom up" engagement * Coaching and mentoring leaders, enhancing fundamental management skills and lean leadership * Implementation of lean tools and techniques Important Links: https://www.dunlopconsultants.com.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dunlopconsultants/ Empower & Align Your Teams | TeamAssurance
S1 E98 · Tue, August 23, 2022
Military Transferable Skills with Dr. William Harvey
In this episode, Dr. William Harvey and I discuss the most important skills he was able to transfer from his time in the United States Marine Corps to his corporate career in lean management. We discussed everything from goal setting to leadership skills and kaizen. What You'll Learn: As it relates to goal setting, what influenced Dr. Harvey at an early age to set challenging personal goals? An important tactic in creating an environment for increased teamwork. Key benefits recognized by observing gemba. Defining Kaizen. The leadership lessons that comes with practicing Kaizen. How to help create an environment of collaboration and the benefits. About the Guest: Dr. William Harvey's leadership journey started in the U.S. Marine Corps. Following military service, William discovered a passion for manufacturing and continuous improvement over the last 14 years. William’s fascination with people development and a chance encounter with Toyota Kata prompted his doctoral dissertation on Toyota Kata’s best practices. William currently works in manufacturing as Plant Manager at Michelman and started his sixth year of teaching business, finance, and marketing at the University of Cincinnati in August 2022. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drwilliamharvey/
S1 E97 · Tue, August 16, 2022
Michigan Lean Consortium Annual Conference Highlights
In this episode, I was able to catch up with the attendees and speakers of the Michigan Lean Consortium Annual Conference that took place last week in Traverse City, Michigan. This was an in–person event and the engagement was AMAZING. Some of the highlights include discussions with keynote speakers Richard Sheridan and Mark Graban, among many other attendees. Michigan Lean Consortium: http://michiganlean.org/ Richard Sheridan Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/menloprez/ https://menloinnovations.com/ Mark Graban Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mgraban/ https://www.markgraban.com/ https://www.markgraban.com/podcasts/ Chad Bareither: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-bareither-32712222/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/bareither-group-consulting-llc/ Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center: https://www.the-center.org/
S1 E96 · Tue, August 09, 2022
The Harada Method with George Trachilis
In this episode, Patrick's guest is George Trachilis, P.Eng. Patrick and George discuss the Harada Method and how it can benefit individuals and organizations. About the Guest: George Trachilis lives in Canada and consults remotely and throughout the world. He started his career at Motor Coach Industries in 1994 where he received Lean coaching in Just-in-Time manufacturing , and Total Quality Management . Having lead change for over 10 years, he decided to start his own consulting firm in 2003. It grew to become one of Canada’s Fastest Growth Companies by 2006. The government of Canada asked George to create an online course to teach Lean . This course educated over 300 companies. It also became a book OEM Principles of Lean Thinking . By 2011, the course was offered globally and educated 100,000 students from 60 different countries. In 2012, relationships were forged with some of the most recognized names in Lean including Dr. Jeffrey K. Liker , best-selling author of the Toyota Way, and Norman Bodek , known as the Godfather of Lean . He was encouraged by both Jeff and Norm to adopt a much deeper understanding of Lean which stretches back to Japan and the origins of Toyota. George decided to video document his many webinars, two (2) Japan Study Missions, live Harada Method workshops, and many other teachings on the topics. George is now one of the most knowledgeable people on the topic of Lean and more importantly, a practitioner. George’s standard coaching is based on the key books and online courses which he has published. One book and online course, Developing Lean Leaders at All Levels , received the Shingo Research Award in 2016. The second is on self-reliance, Norman Bodek’s Harada Method. He has, as of this year, published as an online course and book, Lean Construction Leaders: A Trade Partner’s Guide to Lean . What You'll Learn: Harada Method background and how George discovered it. How Shohei Ohtani, the best baseball player in the world, used the Harada Method. George's lessons that will stay with him for the rest of his life. How someone can learn the Harada Method for free. What is next for the Harada Method? What is the vision? https://georgetrachilis.com https://theharadamethod.com/
S1 E95 · Tue, July 26, 2022
A Chain of Learning with Katie Anderson
Katie Anderson is back for another episode where we talk about her chain of learning and the importance of leaders doing the little things. Katie is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant, author and professional speaker. Katie is best known for her focus on helping individuals and organizations lead with intention. Katie is also the author of “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” and wrote the forward for my book. In this episode we talk about being an intentional leader, and creating a structure for your learning and practice. What You’ll Learn This Episode: The importance of going out of your way to help others. Going beyond your job description. Chain of Learning Katie's 2-year anniversary celebration of her book Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn Katie's learnings and discoveries since writing her book. New things coming in 2023 for Katie. About the Guest: Katie Anderson is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant, author and professional speaker. She has over 20 years of experience in supporting change and improvement in organizations across a range of industries, though her primary focus has been on leading transformational change in healthcare organizations. Katie launched KBJ Anderson Consulting in 2013, to help individuals and organizations gain clarity on their goals, deepen their problem solving skills, and develop more effective leadership habits. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson/ https://kbjanderson.com/
S1 E94 · Tue, July 19, 2022
Where Six Sigma Began with Jonathon Andell
In this episode, Jonathon Andell and I discuss his involvement with Motorola when Six Sigma was first introduced. Jonathon was a young engineer at Motorola at that time and shares some great memories about his learnings early on. We also discuss how Lean and Six Sigma has shaped his problem solving approach over the years and he shares his biggest factors impacting effectiveness of lean transformations. What You'll Learn: Jonathon's experience with Six Sigma at Motorola early on. Lean and Six Sigma's impact on his approach to solving problems. If you could counsel your earlier self in LSS, what advice would you give? What do you consider the biggest factors impacting the effectiveness of Lean transformations? About the Guest: Jonathon Andell is an accomplished operational excellence leader and an exceptional instructor, coach, and mentor in all aspects of lean-six sigma and continuous improvement. Jonathan is a master black belt with a track record of millions of dollars of bottom-line impact across many organizations in multiple industries. He has served as an operational excellence practitioner across many organizations such as Motorola, Boeing, Verizon, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Bristol Myers Squibb, and now Vistra. Connect with Jonathon Here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathon-andell/
S1 E93 · Tue, July 12, 2022
'What OpEx Leaders Should Be Doing' with Dawn Holly Johnson
Dawn Holly Johnson is a returning guest on The Lean Solutions Podcast. Back in episode 46, we discussed operational excellence and, at that time, Dawn was getting ready to release her book, What CEOs Need to Know: The #1 Reason Startups Fail and All Organizations Underperform. Well, now that Dawn has released her book, I am excited to catch up and learn how things have been going. What You'll Learn: 1. The reasons that companies struggle with OpEx. 2. What should OpEx leaders do instead? 3. Learn about Dawn's new book, What CEOs Need to Know: The #1 Reason Startups Fail and All Organizations Underperform. And why she wrote it. 4. How can OpEx leaders bring enterprise-wide change? About the Guest: As an Organizational Engineer with transformational experience in every major industry and in every size company, Dawn has been the catalyst for businesses to realize over $6B in cash flow improvements. She is the CEO of 3D value group and the author of the book, What CEOs Need to Know: The #1 Reason Startups Fail and All Organizations Underperform. Website: DawnHollyJohnson.com Book: Click Here for Amazon
S1 E92 · Tue, July 05, 2022
Throwback With Paul Akers on Simple Lean
Due to my travel schedule this week, I wanted to share a throwback to a conversation I had with Paul Akers this past year. Paul is an author, entrepreneur and the founder and president of FastCap, a product development company specializing in woodworking tools and hardware for the professional builder. In this episode, Paul and I go over how Lean can be applied to improve your work environment and why you need to focus on small consistent changes when trying to make improvements. What You’ll Learn This Episode: How Lean helped Paul in Ironman FastCap and the inspiration behind the company The importance of listening to customers Making time to fix what’s bothering you 2 second improvement and why it’s simple The inspiration behind Paul’s videos What it takes to be a good leader in an organization with Lean culture Paul’s advice for someone just starting on their Lean journey About the Guest: Paul Akers is the founder and president of FastCap, a product development company specializing in woodworking tools and hardware for the professional builder. FastCap was started in Paul’s garage in 1997 when he simply “fixed what bugged him” and developed his first product: the Fastcap Cover Cap. From humble beginnings, and no MBA, FastCap has thousands of distributors worldwide in over 40 countries. Paul’s intense curiosity on how things could be improved paved the way for him to become a prolific innovator and today he holds many US and International patents. FastCap launches approximately 20-30 innovative products per year and has won business of the year in 1999 and 2010. In June 2011 Paul won Seattle Business Magazine’s prestigious Business Executive of the Year award. He wrote his first book, 2 Second Lean, about creating a fun, Lean culture, that is now available in 15 languages. In 2015, he wrote his 2nd book, Lean Health, in 2016, he wrote Lean Travel and in 2019, he wrote Lean Life and Banish Sloppiness. In 2016, Paul’s book, 2 Second Lean, was recognized by the Shingo Institute and won the Research and Professional Publication Award. Important Links: https://paulakers.net/books/2-second-lean https://paulakers.net/ https://apps.apple.com/us/app/2-second-lean-play/id1503694993 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.leanplay
S1 E91 · Tue, June 28, 2022
Lean Accounting Management with Jim Huntzinger
In this episode, I talked with Jim Huntzinger about the importance of Lean Accounting Management within any organization. Jim helps listeners dig into their own accounting systems to ensure they are making decisions based on correct costing data. What You'll Learn: How did you get involved with lean accounting? How did the Lean Accounting Summit come into being? How do lean accounting and process development connect? What work still needs to be accomplished in these areas? What else can process development impact? About the Guest: Jim Huntzinger began his career as a manufacturing engineer with Toyota and then was transplanted to North America to support Toyota. In 2005, Jim founded Lean Frontiers. He developed and operates the immersive Skillpoint Workshops for Job Instruction and Toyota Kata. He has also authored many books to include, Lean Cost Management and Roots of Lean. Lean Accounting Summit: https://leanfrontiers.com/2022leanleadershipweek/ Other Lean Frontiers Summits: https://leanfrontiers.com/summits/ Jim's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-huntzinger-7001581/
S1 E90 · Tue, June 21, 2022
Managing Lean Culture in a Large Global Company with Dan Davis
In this episode, Dan Davis and I discuss what its like to manage a continuous improvement culture in a large global company. We talk about both successes and challenges of being in this role. Dan also provides the listeners with some tips and tricks to help other leaders develop their own CI culture. What You'll Learn: What it's like to manage The Center of Excellence for Continuous Improvement for a large publicly traded company? What is the key in opening the door to CI culture? How are you generating small improvements? What's Dan's favorite topic to train people on in CI? What's Dan's favorite quote and why? About the Guest: Dan Davis has dedicated over 25 years of his career to supporting lean initiatives and developing CI culture at various companies. He is extremely passionate in teaching and simplifying concepts to help companies shift their culture to make it a place that it is everyone’s responsibility to improve. Mr. Davis rejoined Xylem in 2021 and leads up the Continuous Improvement, Center of Excellence and is responsible for driving CI utilizing the Xylem Production System. His key focus areas include driving the vision and roadmap for the Company’s CI culture while overseeing initiatives, implementing robust tools and measurement methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma, and leading Xylem toward best-in-class status in operations, commercial and transactional activities. Prior to his current role Mr. Davis was responsible for the CI program at Watts Water Technology. He held several leadership roles at FMC Technologies, including CI Leader & Plant Manager. Prior to that, he served in a series of increasingly responsible leadership roles in the industrial businesses for the Stanley Black & Decker, Global CI Leader and Plant Manager Responsibility. At Tractor Supply Company, Mr. Davis was responsible for launching their CI Program (Tractor Value System). Mr. Davis earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineer from Milwaukee School of Engineering. Email: dan.davis@xylem.com
S1 E89 · Tue, June 14, 2022
Lean Daily Management Systems with Muhammad Khurram
In this episode, I talk with Muhammad Khurram from Pakistan about Lean Daily Management Systems. Muhammad and I discuss the importance of daily management to support sustainment of improvement initiatives for any lean journey What You'll Learn: Lean Daily Management – LDM System is the key to sustain a Lean Culture What are the objectives of a good Lean Daily Management System? Key Elements for a Lean Daily Management System Who should have Leader Standard Work – LSW System How to handle the Daily accountability huddles? Why should Leadership conduct audits? About the Guest: Muhammad Khurram has a vast amount of experience as an agile Industrial Engineer in a diverse range of industries; within these different industries, he has worked on Production Planning & Control, Cost reduction, effective resource capacity utilization, and has experience with the Toyota Production System. He is a certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and has a strong expertise in Lean Manufacturing and process accuracy. He is a highly resourceful and strategically agile Industrial Engineer with over 15 years’ experience in diverse range of industries like FMCG, Automotive & Textile. He has in-depth knowledge and experience working in Production Planning & Control, Cost reduction, effective resource utilization, Toyota Production System and Capacity enhancement. As a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Muhammad has strong expertise on Lean Manufacturing and process accuracy. He has proven ability to establish engineering systems to achieve efficient operations with an emphasis on manufacturing processes. Email: engineer_khurram@outlook.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/engineermuhammadkhurram/
S1 E88 · Tue, June 07, 2022
Book Study Question and Answer with Xylem Inc.
This episode is a recording of a conversation I had with a global team about my best selling book, "Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap." A team from Xylem Inc. spent the past few months studying the questions in the book and discussing their answers and learnings for application across the enterprise. The team had some great questions for discussion. Xylem Inc. is a leading global water technology company dedicated to solving the world's most challenging water issues. They are an international team unified in a common purpose: creating advanced technology and other trusted solutions to solve the world's water challenges. To learn more about Xylem Inc. you can visit www.xylem.com In this episode, you will learn: The background on my book, "Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap." CI Culture and Assessments at Xylem Is it possible to measure organizational culture? Have any companies "arrived" at becoming a company of continuous improvement as defined in the book? How do we best support lean in the future with all the recent changes in work environments? Why is it important to make things visual? How to develop stability with standards and why its so important. If I could write an additional chapter, what would it be? What's Patrick's next book? Some tips to drive CI virtually.
S1 E87 · Tue, May 31, 2022
The Toyota Way with Dr. Jeff Liker - Throwback
This is a "Throwback" to one year ago when I interviewed Dr. Jeff Liker about The Toyota Way 2nd Edition. This episode is in the top 5 of most listened to episodes since we launched this podcast. What You Will Learn: We discuss his newly published second edition of The Toyota Way. Dr. Liker and I talk about sustainment of continuous improvement initiatives, specifically, CONTROL vs. LEARNING environments. We also discuss how Dr. Liker is using virtual reality to teach The Toyota Way. About the Guest: Dr. Jeffrey K. Liker is Professor Emeritus of Industrial and Operations Engineering, University of Michigan and a professional speaker and advisor through his company Liker Lean Advisors, LLC, a network of associates to teach and consult in the Toyota Way. He is author of the new second edition of the international best-seller, The Toyota Way: 14 Management Principles from the World’s Greatest Manufacturer, McGraw Hill, 2004 and the companion (with David Meier) Toyota Way Fieldbook, Mcgraw Hill, 2005. His book with Jim Morgan, The Toyota Product Development System, Productivity Press, 2006, was the first that details the product development side of Toyota. In 2018, Morgan and Liker published Designing the Future: How Ford, Toyota, and Other World-Class Organizations Use Lean Product Development to Drive Innovation and Transform Their Business. Authored 3 books focused on the people side of lean: (with David Meier), Toyota Talent: Developing exceptional people the Toyota Way (May, 2007) (with Michael Hoseus) Toyota Culture: The Heart and Soul of the Toyota Way (January, 2008) and The Toyota Way to Lean Leadership (with former Toyota managing officer Gary Convis). 2 additional books in 2011 are The Toyota Way to Continuous Improvement (with Jim Franz) and the first inside account of the recall crisis--Toyota under Fire (with Tim Ogden). And in 2016 (with Karyn Ross): The Toyota Way to Service Excellence. Articles and books have won thirteen Shingo Prizes for Research Excellence and The Toyota Way also won the 2005 Institute of Industrial Engineers Book of the Year Award and 2007 Sloan Industry Studies Book of the Year. In 2012, Dr. Liker was inducted into the Association of Manufacturing Excellence Hall of Fame and in 2016 inducted into the Shingo Academy.
S1 E86 · Tue, May 24, 2022
Lean Leadership and Lean Culture with Rick Foreman
In this episode, Rick Foreman and I discuss Rick's Lean Leadership journey to include his learnings as the V.P. of Lean Development for Federal Heath. Rick truly exemplifies the qualities of a servant leader and has been successful in his many roles throughout multiple industries. What you will learn in this episode: What's the purpose behind your Lean Leadership journey "Behavior is the echo of belief. Do our beliefs as a Lean Leader match up with what we model daily? If not, why not, and how do we adjust?" What do you believe to at the core of successful lean transformations? How do you work to keep Lean engaged in the culture at Federal Heath? What's your biggest struggle in deploying lean at Federal Heath? About the guest: Rick Foreman is the V.P. of Lean Development for Federal Heath Sign Company and a John Maxwell Team certified speaker, coach, and trainer. Rick has over 32 years of lean leadership development experience within aerospace, telecom, sign, medical manufacturing, service industries, supply chains, and community engagement. This in-depth practice of utilizing coaching techniques and mastermind studies to develop people-centric leaders and engagement across multiple locations has led to cultural transformations, with team member, profit and organizational growth. During this period, two of the Texas facilities received recognition for “Lean Enterprise Excellence” from TMAC, while realizing significant, positive business results. Rick has a BA in Management Ethics, a MAM in Business Management, and over 30 years of serving others through coaching, mentoring and helping them reach their full potential and purpose. Contact Rick by email at rforeman@federalheath.com. https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-foreman-24a4a3a/
S1 E85 · Tue, May 17, 2022
Standardized Work for Leaders - Is That a Thing?
In this episode, Deb Coviello and I discuss Leader Standard Work and how best leverage this tool as an Executive Leader: even the creative & innovative process needs Leader Standard work; not to thwart the creative process but to ensure you have enough time for it without burnout. Deb is the founder of Illumination Partners, Author of the book CEO’s Compass - Your Guide to Getting Back on Track and the host of The Drop In CEO Podcast. In this episode, you will learn: How should Leader Standard Work be used by executive leaders? Where should executive leaders spend their time? The 70/20/10 rule of standard work What should you do when you get busy and cannot stick to your standard work? How should leaders prioritize their decisions? Eisenhower matrix Shiny penny funnel: We see the shiny penny and see possibilities in everything. However, we need to run it through our decision logic funnel to prioritize Accountability partners About the Guest: Deb Coviello is the Founder of Illumination Partners and the host of The Drop In CEO podcast. For more than twenty years, she has been transforming businesses from within, elevating the talents of their organizations to new performance levels. Her experience has taught her to put tremendous value on people, whom she considers as the heart of every business. As The Drop In CEO Deb provides her clients with 25+ years worth of experience and strategy in Quality and Operational Excellence roles combined with her 20 years in the Flavors and Fragrance industry, to identify, assess, and solve the issues that are preventing their business growth. Certified as Lean and Six Sigma Blackbelt in Process Improvement, she has also developed significant leadership insight that “People’’ are your greatest tool in your toolbox. In order to deliver on her promise of offering “peace of mind,” she focuses on utilizing the talents of her client’s team and elevating them to new levels of performance, setting them up to better serve their organization. When she isn’t transforming businesses from within, Deb is a board member of Women in Flavor & Fragrance Commerce, (WFFC), an avid Curler with the Cincinnati Curling Club, a mother of 3 and resides in Cincinnati Ohio with her Husband Dan of 32 years. Important Links: Email: deborah@coviellocm.com Website: https://dropinceo.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahacoviello/ Drop in CEO Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-drop-in-ceo/
S1 E84 · Tue, May 10, 2022
Chartering for Success with Adam Lawrence
In this episode, Adam Lawrence and I discuss the power of proper chartering prior to launching into a project or kaizen event of any sort. This is Adam's second time on The Lean Solutions Podcast; the first time was back in episode 50 where we talked about his book, The Wheel of Sustainability. In this episode, you will learn about: What is chartering and why does it mean so much to you? What are the 4 key components of chartering? How does chartering lock in leadership commitment? How does chartering fit with the Wheel of Sustainability? What are some examples of success and/or failures when chartering? About the guest: Adam Lawrence is the Managing Partner of Process Improvement Partners, LLC. He has 30+ years of experience in process improvement activities, targeted at manufacturing and business processes. Having facilitated 300+ Kaizen events in multiple industries around the world, Adam aligns with leadership, engages teams, and creates sustainable results. Adam is also the author of The Wheel of Sustainability. Important Links: https://pi-partners.com/about https://www.amazon.com/Wheel-Sustainability-Engaging-Empowering-Produce-ebook/dp/B08VVX8F6Q
S1 E83 · Tue, May 03, 2022
Nummi and GM European Plants with John Rooney
In this episode, John Rooney and I discuss Nummi and its impact on European workers during his time as an executive at General Motors. What you'll learn during today's episode: What is Nummi? The impact of Nummi on the GM European plants True Lean vs. the appearance of lean Has manufacturing changed? What one bit of advice would you give to a company starting out on its lean journey? What do you most enjoy about helping companies improve? About the guest: John Rooney had 40 years Automotive Experience (Opel-Vauxhall-General Motors). John started as an apprentice and made it to executive level by the time he was thirty. He had the opportunity to see and work in many manufacturing plants across the globe (Europe, Brazil, USA, China, and South Korea). He is also a Six Sigma Black Belt. Since retiring from the Automotive Industry in 2018 felt he needed to share his learnings over the many years. Has collaborated with several companies (including the ILSSI) working on Lean, Lean Six Sigma, Leadership training and CIP workshops to name a few. More recently decided to start his own company (JRC Learn to be Lean) with his partner Roddy Craig who again spent 41 years in the Automotive Industry. Roddy and John now work with companies to help create that culture that is needed for Lean creating bespoke training packages to suit the companies’ individual needs. Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rooney-b017a74a/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/roddy-craig-01585816b/
S1 E82 · Tue, April 26, 2022
The Right Kind of Problem Solving with Lee Campe
In this episode, I talk with Lee Campe about some of his favorite problem solving examples. This is Lee's second time on the show. Previously, in episode 56, we discussed how to maintain a high standards in Lean and Six Sigma. Today, we talked about his experiences in problem solving with many different industries. What you'll learn in this episode: Are PDCA and A3 the same as 6 Sigma? What’s the best way to identify the 8th form of waste? Do we still need a team of people to do a project? Why does continuous improvement deployment often fail? What then are the tips for a successful roll out? About the Guest: Lee Campe, is the President of Performance Excellence Inc. He is a Certified Six Sigma Master Black Belt. Lee is a proven Lean Six Sigma deployment leader with a wide array of expertise in all facets of business and Continuous Improvement. He also is one of the few instructors with extensive experience in Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) and Innovation through design thinking. Lee also served as a US Army Ranger. Prior to starting Performance Excellence, Lee was a Master Black Belt (MBB) for the Home Depot, where he was responsible for coaching employees and mentoring projects across the US. Projects Lee mentored provided the company with over $200 million in savings. Prior to the Home Depot, Lee was the Vice President and Master Black Belt for JP Morgan Chase in New York. His responsibilities included coaching and training Champions, Black Belts, Green Belts, and management in the DMAIC and DFSS methodologies. During his tenure, Lee trained over 100 Champions and mentored three enterprise-wide projects that identified over $20 Million in potential savings. As an MBB and Director at Cordis Corporation, a $1.3 billion Johnson and Johnson company, Lee was responsible for driving the implementation of Six sigma companywide. Charged with the goal of making Six Sigma part of the corporate culture, Lee was ultimately responsible for saving the company over $6 million annually. He also built the company’s transactional Six Sigma curriculum; developed the Six Sigma project database using DFSS for all of Johnson and Johnson; and trained and certified a J&J acquisition in Haifa, Israel. Important Links: http://leecampe.com/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/leecampe
S1 E81 · Tue, April 19, 2022
Human Centered Design with Michael Parent
This week I’m chatting with Michael Parent, a Master Lean Six Sigma Black belt and managing director of Michael Parent Consulting Services in Michigan. In this episode we talk about Lean and Human Centered Design and the value it offers Continuous Improvement in your business. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Operational Definition: What Human Centered Design Is Exploring Human Centered Design The value Human Centered Design offers for Lean, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement What Human Centered Design offers Lean and Six Sigma from a People perspective Innovation and organizational strategy, what are some key learning points to know About the Guest: Michael Parent is a Master Lean Six Sigma Black belt and managing director of Michael Parent Consulting Services in Michigan. He is also the author of “The Lean Innovation Cycle: A Multi-Disciplinary Framework for Designing Value with Lean and Human-Centered Design”. He was named an ASQ Rising Star in 2021. Parent received a Bachelor of Science, engineering degree in industrial and operations engineering from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, and an MBA from the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA. Parent serves on the Board of Directors for the Institute of Industrial & Systems Engineers Operational Excellence Division. Important Links: https://stats.stackexchange.com/users/205150/michael-parent?tab=profile linkedin.com/in/parent-michael
S1 E80 · Tue, April 12, 2022
Lean Strategy with Michael Ballé
Today on the podcast, I’m talking with Michael Ballé, a business writer, executive coach, organizational researcher and Lean expert with 30 years of experience. In this episode, Michael and I talk about how you can use Lean strategy in your organization and how it can give you an advantage and how Lean can be applied to product development. What You’ll Learn This Episode: How Lean is a strategy How it gives companies a competitive advantage to use Lean as a strategy Michael’s book The Lean Strategy How companies should be interpreting TPS and applying it How Lean applies to product development Lean hypergrowth Successes that the operational excellence community was able to achieve About the Guest: Michael Ballé, PhD., is a business writer, executive coach and organizational researcher. He has studied lean transformations for the past 30 years and helped CEOs to grow their own lean cultures. He is the co-author of the bestselling Goldmine trilogy - The Gold Mine, The Lean Manager, Lead With Respect - The Lean Strategy, The Lean Sensei and Lead With Lean among other titles. His work has been translated in 10 languages and has received four Shingo Research and Publication awards. He is the co-founder of Institute Lean France and Business Dynamics collection director at L'Harmattan. Important Links: https://www.amazon.com/Lean-Strategy-Competitive-Innovation-Sustainable/dp/1259860426 http://theleanstrategy.com/
S1 E79 · Tue, April 05, 2022
Simple. Visual. Continuous.
Today on the podcast, I’m sharing a conference presentation I gave to the Lean Six Sigma World Conference about the importance of keeping it simple and visual when it comes to Lean. In this episode, I talk about the importance of good leadership and how you can do small things to create the right culture within your organization. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Why you need to keep things simple instead of complex The 3 points to keeping it simple The importance of keeping a clear vision of where you are heading Why you need to keep it visual The 3 main points to keeping it visual About the Guest: Patrick Adams is the author of the best selling book “Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap.” He is an international speaker, coach, and consultant. Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He's worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profits, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion dollar corporations. Patrick is a proven leader and highly experienced consultant with specific niche focus on organizational strategy and leadership development which brings a unique human approach to sound team-building practices; creating consensus and enabling empowerment. He motivates, inspires, and drives the right results at all points in business processes. Important Links: https://www.leanandsixsigma.org/Keep-It-Simple https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickadamsii/ https://www.findleansolutions.com/book/
S1 E78 · Tue, March 29, 2022
How You Can Avoid Continuous Appearance
Today on the podcast, I’m sharing a presentation I did for the Cincinnati ASQ, a professional association representing Quality professionals in the Cincinnati, Ohio and Northern Kentucky area, about avoiding the continuous appearance trap. In this episode, I talk about my book and how you and your team can avoid the continuous appearance trap by asking certain questions and changes that will affect your overall organization. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Why leaders need to enable action Why your organization needs a true north and a long term vision Why leaders should be spending time where value-added work is being done How the little things in an organization add up to the big things Why it’s important that an organization's problems be visible About the Guest: Patrick Adams is the author of the best selling book “Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap.” He is an international speaker, coach, and consultant. Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He's worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profits, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion dollar corporations. Patrick is a proven leader and highly experienced consultant with specific niche focus on organizational strategy and leadership development which brings a unique human approach to sound team-building practices; creating consensus and enabling empowerment. He motivates, inspires, and drives the right results at all points in business processes. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickadamsii/ https://www.findleansolutions.com/book/
S1 E77 · Tue, March 22, 2022
Private and Public Sector Continuous Improvement with Drew Erdmann
Today on the podcast, I’m talking with Drew Erdmann who served as the chief operating officer of the state of Missouri from February 2017 to April 2021. Under two governors, he was responsible for leading the management transformation across the state of Missouri's 16 Cabinet departments, which equates to roughly 45,000 employees. In this episode, Drew talks about both private and public sector continuous improvement, his transition between the two and how to bridge the gap between the private sector and the government. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Transitioning from private sector to public sector The approach to introducing operational excellence to the state of Missouri government Drew’s experience with the public sector and executive leadership level The major differences between private and public sector How do we bridge the gap between the private sector techniques and the government Building a network or community that can withstand change Successes that the operational excellence community was able to achieve About the Guest: Drew Erdmann served as the Chief Operating Officer of the State of Missouri from February 2017 to April 2021. Under two governors, he was responsible for leading the management transformation across the State of Missouri’s 16 Cabinet departments and their roughly 45,000 employees. Among these enterprise reforms were establishing Missouri’s first cross-departmental Operational Excellence community and prioritizing leadership development and skill building at all levels. Before his state government service, Drew worked in the private sector for over a decade with the global consultancy McKinsey & Company. As a partner at McKinsey, he served clients in the aerospace & defense, energy, infrastructure, and government sectors in the United States and overseas. Prior to McKinsey, Drew served across the U.S. federal government in a variety of national security roles with the State Department, the Defense Department in Iraq, and National Security Council at the White House. Drew received an AM and then PhD in history from Harvard University after earning a BA degree from Williams College and a second BA degree from Oxford University. Important Links: https://showmeexcellence.mo.gov/ https://twitter.com/drewerdmann?lang=en https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-erdmann-aa49567/
S1 E77 · Tue, March 15, 2022
Operational Excellence and Value Streams with John Thacker Jr.
Today on the podcast, I’m talking with John Thacker Jr. who has two decades of experience working in supply chain including managing factories, regional distribution centers, tier one automotive equipment, manufacturing, building trades, food, pharma and consumer goods. John is also the co-host of A Quality Podcast. In this episode, John talks about the importance of Operational Excellence and how companies can move toward a more Lean environment that focuses on value and a healthy environment for workers. What You’ll Learn This Episode: How A Quality Podcast started John’s experience with Lean Six Sigma Operational Excellence The benefits of Operational Excellence for companies Understanding what’s valuable Why companies need to focus on workers feeling respected and safe Challenges for companies moving toward Operational Excellence John’s favorite part about helping companies and people improve About the Guest: John Thacker Jr. has two decades of experience working in supply chain, including managing factories, regional distribution centers, Tier 1 automotive, heavy equipment manufacturing, building trades, food, Pharma, and consumer goods. John is also a host of A Quality Podcast alongside Jake Harrell. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-thacker-leansixsigmablackbelt/ https://www.zoomopex.com/
S1 E76 · Tue, March 08, 2022
Lean Manufacturing and its Relevance in the Future
Today on the podcast, I’m sharing a presentation I did for Inforum Affinity Group. I go over the principles and concepts of Lean and how they can be used today as well as in the future as technology continues to evolve. In this episode I also go over a brief history of Lean manufacturing and how it relates to today. What You’ll Learn This Episode: History of Lean manufacturing How can companies that are trapped in Lean appearance succeed Is Lean outdated and will it be relevant in the future How flexibility is important How can agile be utilized alongside Lean About the Guest: Patrick Adams is the author of the best selling book “Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap.” He is an international speaker, coach, and consultant. Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He's worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profits, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion dollar corporations. Patrick is a proven leader and highly experienced consultant with specific niche focus on organizational strategy and leadership development which brings a unique human approach to sound team-building practices; creating consensus and enabling empowerment. He motivates, inspires, and drives the right results at all points in business processes. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickadamsii/
S1 E74 · Tue, March 01, 2022
How Lean Leaders can Support their Team with Andy Olrich
Today on the podcast, I’m talking with Andy Olrich, a Continuous Improvement and Innovation Leader for the Hunter Water Corporation in Newcastle, Australia. Andy has over 25 years experience in engineering trades, health services, manufacturing, mining, logistics, processes and support. In this episode, Andy and I talk about the importance of leaders committing to standards when training a team and why it’s so important for leaders to not only set clear expectations but to also support and drive change. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Getting your team excited and engaged with Lean The importance of executive leadership supporting the team Andy’s biggest lightbulb moment in his career The importance of committing to standards when it comes to training a team Incorporating Lean practices into your daily life Andy’s advice to anyone passionate about Lean and wanting to become a respected leader About the Guest: Andy Olrich is the Continuous Improvement and Innovation Lead for the Hunter Water Corporation in Newcastle Australia. Andy has over 25 years’ experience in engineering trades, health services, manufacturing, mining, logistics processes and support. Andy holds formal qualifications in Engineering and trades plus LEAN Six Sigma & Agile methodologies. Andy is passionate about developing himself further as a respected Lean leader and enjoys seeing the benefits of teams embracing Continuous Improvement and working together to achieve common and personal goals. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-olrich/ https://www.facebook.com/andy.olrich?sk=wall¬if_id=1640549102606889¬if_t=wall&ref=notif
S1 E73 · Tue, February 22, 2022
Using Humor and Fun in Lean with Jake Harrell
Today on the podcast, I’m talking with Jake Harrell. Jake is a supply chain enthusiast and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. He is also the host of A Quality Podcast and the author of the book Chasing Excellence. In this episode, Jake talks about the importance of being funny and bringing humor into Lean to appeal to a wide array of people. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Jake’s background and how his podcast got started Sparking fun and humor in Lean Using memes for fun when talking about Lean Dealing with negative lash back on social media Why being funny and bringing humor into Lean is important Being young in Lean and keeping up with changes About the Guest: Jake Harrell is a supply chain enthusiast and lean six sigma black belt committed to chasing excellence. He is the host of "A Quality podcast" and a collaborator in "Zoom Operational Excellence", a company founded by John Thacker to Collaborate with the Lean consulting community. By day, I implement new systems in distribution centers around the globe, and by night, I am the funniest lean guy. My purpose is to bring humor/lightheartedness to make the lean space more approachable and attractive. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakeharrellchasingexcellence/ https://www.amazon.com/Chasing-Excellence-Jake-Harrell/dp/0578727773 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4iOzsobf99YG1wCxn9r60w/featured
S1 E72 · Tue, February 15, 2022
The Love and Kindness Project with Karyn Ross
Today on the podcast, I’m talking with Karyn Ross, an internationally acclaimed consultant, coach, lean practitioner and author. Karyn is also the founder of the Love and Kindness Project which is a movement spreading kindness from person to person around the world. In this episode, Karyn talks about the movement and why it’s so important to focus on kindness, even in a Lean setting and how you can implement kind leadership everyday. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Why kindness in Lean matters Kind leadership How the Love and Kindness Project started #storiesofkindness - what it is and how it got started Why small acts of kindness are important Who the Love and Kindness Project is for and who can participate How you can practice being kind even if it doesn't come naturally to you About the Guest: Karen is an internationally acclaimed consultant, coach and lean practitioner, and focuses on teaching organizations of all sizes and sectors how to use creativity combined with Toyota Way principles, practices and tools. This powerful combination enables organizations to create better, more effective and efficient ways to work. While many other Lean consultants focus on implementing tools, Karyn teaches teams how to use Practical Creativity™ to continuously strive towards service excellence. Karyn is on a mission to 'Help People Improve the World'. Important Links: https://loveandkindnessproject.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-love-and-kindness-project-foundation/ https://www.amazon.com/Kind-Leader-Practical-Eliminating-Creating/dp/0367693437
S1 E71 · Tue, February 08, 2022
Lean Mindset and Culture with Alessandro Lasi
Today on the podcast, I’m talking with Alessandro Lasi, whose career includes more than 10 years in continuous improvement leadership positions. Alessandro also earned a master's in industrial engineering and has a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification and is also a Kaizen facilitator. In this episode, Alessandro and I talk about the mindset and culture of Lean and Continuous Improvement including different tactics and techniques to support the continuous improvement culture. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Alessandro’s background in Lean The importance of failure and learning from failure Psychological safety within Lean culture Why you need to focus on process and purpose in Lean to get results What’s needed to get continuous improvement to the next level Getting to the sweet spot in Lean Why it’s difficult for organizations to nurture CI culture Why psychological safety is so important About the Guest: Alessandro’s career includes more than ten years in continuous improvement leadership positions in FMCG, Mechanical and Machinery, Services and Retail industries at top-tier global corporations –including, but not limited to, Hertz Corporation, SCA/Essity, and Leonardo. Known for his daring vision and tireless energy, Alessandro has been helping improve processes and drive company growth for the past five years at his current employer, a multinational company active in the Mechanical and Machinery business. He joined the company in 2016, with a mission to create and apply a new pan-European Continuous Improvement approach. After such a successful endeavor, Alessandro advanced through positions of increased authority and decision-making to his current position as a Global Director Continuous Improvement. His unique ability to establish rapport with a variety of professionals, engage people across functions and offer innovative solutions for short-term and long-term process setbacks, has allowed the Company, to not only reduce its costs, but to significantly improve processes in the Manufacturing and Supply chain, and Global Aftermarket and Service divisions in a very short time. Alessandro developed and implemented a unique Global Business System (XPS) for Service and Aftermarket currently used in 30+ countries, and he successfully managed 40+ strategic business transformation improvement projects with multimillion budgets on four continents in only three years, including various restructuring and growth initiatives. For his excellent results, he was declared the 2020 Global Continuous Improvement Gold Award Winner, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Champion for Europe at his current employer in 2021. He is currently leading Continuous Improvement for Global Aftermarket and Service Business Unit at his current employer, driving the strategic transformation to do
S1 E70 · Tue, February 01, 2022
Agile and Lean with Nigel Thurlow
Today on the podcast, I’m talking with Nigel Thurlow, a leading expert on Lean and Agile approaches. Nigel advises companies on successful transformation strategies and how to achieve effective and lasting change. As the chief agile at Toyota connected, he established the Toyota agile Academy and is also the co-author of The Flow System. In this episode, Nigel and I talk about Agile, how it relates to Lean and the flow from scientific thinking to Agile into the flow system. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Nigel’s background in Lean and Agile The challenges with bringing Agile into Toyota The differences between Japan and the western world with executive leadership The scientific method and why it’s so important The challenges when only dealing with deductive reasoning PDCA and Scrum Agile, what it is and how it differs and relates to Lean How Agile and Lean flow into the flow system About the Guest: Nigel Thurlow is the former Chief of Agile at Toyota, creator of the World Agility Forum award-winning ‘Scrum the Toyota Way’ approach, and the co-creator of The Flow System™. He is also a Forbes top 10 noted author for his work as co-author of the book on The Flow System and is a well-known Keynote Speaker. He also co-authors The Flow Guide. Nigel is an internationally recognized expert in the Toyota Production System and The Toyota Way as well as Lean Thinking, Agile, Scrum, and Complexity concepts. In addition to his work at Toyota in recent years he has also taught and coached at Vodafone, Banco Popular, GE, Bose, 3M, Microsoft, University of North Texas, and to the faculty at MIT. Nigel also presents regularly for The Lean Institute at their events and is considered a leading expert in bridging the Lean and Agile worlds following his pioneering work at Toyota. As a Professional Scrum Trainer, the first one ever in Toyota, and the first to have been certified by both the creators of Scrum, he has trained over 8000 people worldwide as of 2021. Nigel is extensively published online and has co-authored several peer reviewed white papers and journal publications on team science. He acts as an advisor on several boards at the University of North Texas as well as contributing to Chief Executive Magazine. Nigel currently serves as the CEO of The Flow Consortium, and as an interim executive with several high-profile brands advising executive leadership teams on lean and agile strategies in complex business and organizational design environments. Important Links: https://flowguides.org/ https://www.getflowtrained.com/ https://w
S1 E69 · Tue, January 25, 2022
High Performing Work Teams with Gareth Shaw
Today on the podcast, I’m talking with Gareth Shaw. Gareth is the President, UK & Europe of Doceree, the first global network of physician-only platforms for programmatic messaging. In this episode, Gareth and I talk about leading high performing work teams and how you can maintain your high performing teams digitally during the pandemic. Gareth also shares information about pharma marketing and technology in the pharma industry. What You’ll Learn This Episode: The definition of a high performing work team Challenges for teams who want to be high performing The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and how you can avoid them The characteristics of leaders in charge of high performing teams The background of Doceree How the pandemic has changed the pharma marketing space Maintaining and building a high performing team digitally Programmatic marketing How programmatic solutions are improving the healthcare of the pharma industry About the Guest: Gareth Shaw is the President, UK & Europe of Doceree, the first global network of physician-only platforms for programmatic messaging. Prior to joining Doceree, Gareth was the General Manager, Global Programmatic, of PulsePoint where he led the programmatic and operations divisions. Further, he was the Senior Direct Response Sales Specialist at Yahoo! Throughout his career, Gareth has gained vast experience in the sales categories across the digital media and advertising technology sectors. He has a well-regarded background for building high-performance teams and implementing strategic plans to facilitate the growth of his organizations. Important Links: https://doceree.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gareth-shaw-9214403/?originalSubdomain=uk
S1 E68 · Tue, January 18, 2022
Design Thinking with Anna Tagliapietra
Today on the podcast, I’m talking with Anna Tagliapietra, an Italian Lean Office trainer and consultant. Anna mixes methods and tools from design thinking and design sprint to the traditional Lean tools using micro structures to help people interact and find ideas during their improvement projects In this episode, Anna talks about design thinking in Lean and how organizations can use micro structures. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Anna’s background in Lean What is a micro structure How you can use a micro structure at a Kaizen event The benefit of silent voting during an event How microstructure or liberating structures can help in Lean projects or Six Sigma projects Where you can use micro structures and liberating structures Ecocycle planning Purpose to practice and how to use it Lightning decision jam Time boxing and why it’s important About the Guest: Anna Tagliapietra is an Italian Lean Office trainer and consultant. She comes from the marketing and communication sector and was a partner in an advertising company before committing 100% in her Lean career. Anna worked for Ferrari, Scavolini and Clementoni and is now training a group of Lean Practitioners for Gucci RTW. In order to make good use of her former education, Anna mixes methods and tools from Design Thinking and Design Sprint to the traditional Lean tools, using microstructures to help people interact and find ideas during their improvement projects. Important Links: https://www.liberatingstructures.com/ https://www.instagram.com/leanoffice/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/in/annatagliapietra/ https://www.youtube.com/c/AJSmart https://www.youtube.com/c/AnnaTagliapietra
S1 E67 · Tue, January 11, 2022
Holistic Business Excellence with Dirk Fischer
Today on the podcast, I’m talking with Dirk Fischer, an automotive General Manager, Lean Operations Engineering supply chain and Quality Manager expert with more than 25 years of experience. In this episode, Dirk and I go over system waste, what’s causing it and how you can avoid it. We also go over holistic business excellence and how it relates to system waste. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Dirk’s background in Lean and how he got started The definition of System Waste How to identify and eliminate System Waste Holistic Business Excellence How Holistic Business Excellence can help with System Waste How you can help drive the Holistic Business approach Aspects of Lean that are potentially untapped About the Guest: I was born June, 20th 1970 in the Stuttgart area, Southern Germany and finished my mechanical engineering study in September 1992. I am an automotive General Manager, lean operations, engineering, supply chain and quality management expert with more than 25 years of experience, consistently proving the ability to holistically turn around underperforming plants and groups of plants. The various turnarounds were mainly achieved through inspiring leadership for change and creating a LEAN KPI driven continuous improvement culture. I continuously implement effective action plans, which are designed to rapidly improve Customer satisfaction, Quality, Cost, Delivery, Safety, Morale AND Working Capital and therefore delivering sustainable bottom line results. The pattern of success was usually to start with intensive observations on the shop floor (Go to Gemba) to really understand the problems, detailed discussions and reflections with the team, coaching the plant management team in order to establish and implement the most important actions, define high impact KPIs, provide tools to monitor progress and review frequently for effectiveness of implemented actions. This approach enabled me to frequently develop high performance teams. My leadership style and my acting and thinking is highly influenced by Deming/Ackoff/Toyota Way/ Theory of Constraints/Stephen Covey and others. In the past 10 years I held various COO/CRO roles with a responsibility ranging from a single plant with 50 million € of sales up to international multi site responsibility with 20 plants and 3,6 billion € of sales. Having worked for more than 10 years for international Anglo-American companies with strong financial focus, I am used to work in environments with strong financial controls and reporting and intensive budgeting processes. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dirk-fischer-06850011?trk=author_mini-profile_title&originalSubdom
S1 E66 · Tue, January 04, 2022
Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap with Patrick Adams
Patrick Adams is the author of the best selling book “Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap.” He is an international speaker, coach, and consultant. Patrick has been delivering bottom-line results through specialized process improvement solutions for over 20 years. He's worked with all types of businesses from private, non-profits, government, and manufacturing ranging from small business to billion dollar corporations. Patrick is a proven leader and highly experienced consultant with specific niche focus on organizational strategy and leadership development which brings a unique human approach to sound team-building practices; creating consensus and enabling empowerment. He motivates, inspires, and drives the right results at all points in business processes. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickadamsii/ https://www.findleansolutions.com/book/
S1 E65 · Tue, December 28, 2021
Monetize Your Life with Randy Otterbridge
This week on the podcast, I’m speaking with Randy Otterbridge. Randy is the Chief Idea Officer at RBridge Business Institute, which is a Consulting and Business Creation company and is also an author and a podcast host. In this episode, Randy and I talk about how you can apply Continuous Improvement and Lean principles into not only your business but also your personal life in order to create a better lifestyle. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Randy’s experience with manufacturing and continuous improvement RBridge Business Institute and how it got started Having a generalist approach Why companies need to be innovative in order to not be left behind The application of CI principles into your personal life How Lean and CI principles can result in a better life overall Applying Five S to your personal life What is a mastermind and why it’s important How you can benefit from a mastermind Giving your team a safe space to express their ideas How you can use your team members ideas to benefit the company About the Guest: Randy Otterbridge (AKA, The Monetize Your Life Guy) developed the "Monetize Method" to help you bring more income into your life and profits to your business. "Your life (and the life of your businesses) are filled with gold--I simply guide you to it and hand you the shovel to dig out more of it." Additionally, Randy is the Chief Idea Officer of RBRIDGE BUSINESS INSTITUTE, LLC which serves as the holder of portfolio businesses where business models are created, tested, and leveraged to maximize profits. He then uses these tests to teach individuals and companies how to increase income and maximize profits. How he does it… is the secret sauce, some of which he might share with us today. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randyotterbridge/ https://www.facebook.com/RBRIDGEINSTITUTE/ randy@rbridgebusinessinstitute.com
S1 E64 · Tue, December 21, 2021
Lean Accounting with Jim Huntzinger
This week on the podcast, I’m speaking with Jim Huntzinger. Jim is the founder of Lean Frontiers and has also launched new business in the free market healthcare arena through several virtual lean and free market healthcare events and the United in Care Summit. He is also the author of several books. In this episode, Jim and I talk about the relevance of Lean accounting and how TWI fits into the Lean business model. What You’ll Learn This Episode: The start of Lean Frontiers Jim’s background in Lean Lean accounting- what it is and why it’s different from traditional accounting What industry’s Lean accounting applies to The future of Lean accounting and whether it’s still relevant Aspects of Lean that are potentially untapped The first step you should take in Lean process and product development Cross functional teams and process development TWI- what it is and how it fits into the Lean business model The TWI Summit Lean Healthcare About the Guest: Jim Huntzinger began his career as a manufacturing engineer with Toyota and then was transplanted to North America to support Toyota. In 2005 Huntzinger founded Lean Frontiers. He developed and operates the immersive Skillpoint Workshops for Job Instruction and Toyota Kata. He has also launched new business in the free market healthcare arena through several virtual lean and free market healthcare events and the United in Care Summit. He has also authored many books to include, Lean Cost Management: Accounting for Lean by Establishing Flow, Roots of Lean – Training Within Industry: The Origin of Kaizen, just to name a few. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-huntzinger-7001581/ https://leanfrontiers.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/cr/podcast/connecting-the-dots/id1534151238
S1 E63 · Tue, December 14, 2021
Servant Leadership with Brian Bolen
This week on the podcast, I’m speaking with Brian Bolen. Brian has 12 years of quality and CI experience. He's an ASQ, certified Six Sigma Black Belt. He also has his master's degree in operational excellence from Eastern Michigan University In this episode, Brian and I talk about why leaders need to be focusing on servant leadership and how it can help leaders be more effective in their roles. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Servant leadership, what it is and why it matters Brian’s experience with continuous improvement and how he got started How servant leadership helps leaders to lead more effectively Brian’s biggest improvements and failures in his Lean career Brian’s advice to someone just starting out in Lean Books and podcasts that have helped Brian through his Lean journey Why you should always be learning About the Guest: Brian Bolen is an Experienced Process Engineer with a demonstrated history of working in the consumer goods industry. Skilled in Continuous Improvement, Lean Six Sigma, Statistical Data Analysis, and GMPs. Brian is a strong engineering professional with a Master of Science (MS) focused in Quality Management and Operational Excellence from Eastern Michigan University. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianbolenlssbb/
S1 E62 · Tue, December 07, 2021
2 Second Lean with Paul Akers
This week on the podcast, I’m speaking with Paul Akers. Paul is an author, entrepreneur and the founder and president of FastCap, a product development company specializing in woodworking tools and hardware for the professional builder. In this episode, Paul and I go over how Lean can be applied to improve your work environment and why you need to focus on small consistent changes when trying to make improvements. What You’ll Learn This Episode: How Lean helped Paul in Ironman FastCap and the inspiration behind the company The importance of listening to customers Making time to fix what’s bothering you 2 second improvement and why it’s simple The inspiration behind Paul’s videos What it takes to be a good leader in an organization with Lean culture Paul’s advice for someone just starting on their Lean journey About the Guest: Paul Akers is the founder and president of FastCap, a product development company specializing in woodworking tools and hardware for the professional builder. FastCap was started in Paul’s garage in 1997 when he simply “fixed what bugged him” and developed his first product: the Fastcap Cover Cap. From humble beginnings, and no MBA, FastCap has thousands of distributors worldwide in over 40 countries. Paul’s intense curiosity on how things could be improved paved the way for him to become a prolific innovator and today he holds many US and International patents. FastCap launches approximately 20-30 innovative products per year and has won business of the year in 1999 and 2010. In June 2011 Paul won Seattle Business Magazine’s prestigious Business Executive of the Year award. He wrote his first book, 2 Second Lean, about creating a fun, Lean culture, that is now available in 15 languages. In 2015, he wrote his 2nd book, Lean Health, in 2016, he wrote Lean Travel and in 2019, he wrote Lean Life and Banish Sloppiness. In 2016, Paul’s book, 2 Second Lean, was recognized by the Shingo Institute and won the Research and Professional Publication Award. Important Links: https://paulakers.net/books/2-second-lean https://paulakers.net/ https://apps.apple.com/us/app/2-second-lean-play/id1503694993 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.leanplay
S1 E61 · Tue, November 30, 2021
Scrum and Lean Construction with Felipe Engineer
This week I’m speaking with Felipe Engineer, a registered Scrum master and trainer. Felipe also leads the Lean construction program at McCarthy Building Companies and is the CEO and podcast host of the EBFC Show, which is dedicated to Lean construction. In this episode, Felipe and I go into detail about integrating Lean into construction. We also talk about Scrum, what it is and how Scrum can be used when you’re in the construction industry. What You’ll Learn This Episode: The importance of Lean in construction Felipe’s podcast, The EBFC show What is Scrum How you can use Scrum in design and construction Lean tools and techniques that are used on a construction site The argument that Lean is too academic How you can start improving your work today About the Guest: Felipe leads the Lean Construction program for McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. Engineer-Manriquez is also the CEO and Host of The EBFC Show. The Easier, Better, for Construction Show allows people to make building easier and better share how. As a Registered Scrum Trainer™ (RST) endorsed by Dr. Jeff Sutherland, Felipe also co-created the Design and Construction Registered Scrum Master™ (RSM) curriculum with the Agile Education Program team. It enables RSM graduates to deliver construction project value and earn recognition in the International Registry of Agile Professionals™. Engineer-Manriquez is an active contributing member of the Lean Construction Institute (LCI) and is an approved instructor/facilitator and 2019 LCI Chairman’s Award recipient for contributions to the Institute and the design and construction industry as a whole. Important Links: https://www.theebfcshow.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/engineerfelipe/ https://constructionscrum.com/
S1 E60 · Tue, November 23, 2021
Creating Sustainable Lean Culture with Andrew Van Breugel
This week I’m speaking with Andrew Van Breugel, an experienced manufacturing professional with a diverse range of skills and Lean experience that extends to plant management, operations management, product development, manufacture and quality. In this episode, Andrew and I speak about sustainability and leadership in Lean and how leaders can develop their leadership skills and also help their team with executing sustainable Lean culture. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Should Lean leaders be striving for more How leaders can develop their skills Tips on how leaders can help develop their leadership skills How to help create sustainability in Lean and Lean culture Some of the main factors in failure Vision statements and how to get them executed Communicating continuous improvement to your team The importance of personal development for leaders Leader Standard Work Lean and time management About the Guest: Andrew Van Breugel is an experienced manufacturing professional with a diverse range of skills covering analytical chemistry, product quality, product development, manufacturing, process chemistry, technical sales, business improvement and general operations management in various Asia Pacific and Europe, having tertiary qualifications in science (chemistry), business and accounting. Andrew’s experience extends to plant management, operations management, product development, manufacture and quality. Andrew has been directly responsible for business operations analysis, business improvement using Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing and the Toyota Production System and is a certified Evaluator with the Australian Business Excellence awards and a certified Assessor with the Singapore Quality Awards. In positions ranging from Operational Excellence Manager to COO of manufacturing organizations, Andrew has spent many years considering the effectiveness of and the role of senior leadership in lean deployments. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-van-breugel-a514927 https://www.thinkrci.com/ avanbreugel@thinkrci.com
S1 E59 · Tue, November 16, 2021
2021 Operational Excellence Summit: State of Nebraska
This week I’m sharing some of the interviews and chats I got to have during my time at the 2021 Operational Excellence Summit in the State of Nebraska. I got the opportunity to speak with multiple leaders in the Lean and Operational Excellence community and I’m excited to share my interviews with you today. The state of Nebraska launched the Center of Operational Excellence in 2016 to change the culture in state government and train state teammates in Process Improvement. Since May 2016, the COE has facilitated 575 process improvement projects, saving over 630,000 of work that has led to being able to put more of a focus on customer service. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Working in Nebraska State Government and how Lean as been implemented How Lean saves for taxpayers Some of the upcoming projects in the state of Nebraska Success stories from the state of Nebraska About the 2021 Operational Excellence Summit: The 2021 Operational Excellence Summit convenes leaders and change agents from the State of Nebraska to discuss the opportunities to build upon the success the Center of Operational Excellence has had. The Summit is a unique chance for leaders who share a passion for continuous improvement to get together and exchange ideas. Important Links: https://das.nebraska.gov/coe/
S1 E58 · Tue, November 09, 2021
Technology in Continuous Improvement with Chris Burnham
This week on the podcast, I’m talking with Chris Burnham. Chris has twenty years of experience with learning and coaching Lean and Continuous Improvement principles and his career has spanned a variety of roles from front-line servant leader to responsibility for Global Continuous Improvement Programs. Chris is also the host of The Lean Leadership Podcast. In this episode, Chris and I talk about growing technology in Lean and continuous improvement and how leaders and teams can adapt to the changes. What You’ll Learn This Episode: How leaders and technology can work together What makes a great lean leader and how leaders are changing What it take for organizations to see Process Improvement as a necessary part of the organization Diagnosing when technology is holding back your organization when it comes to continuous improvement Why you need to be adaptive How technology is changing the work environment About the Guest: Chris Burnham has twenty years of experience with learning and coaching Lean and Continuous Improvement principles. His career has spanned a variety of roles from front-line servant leader to responsibility for Global Continuous Improvement Programs. Chris has had the opportunity to work with a diverse group of industries, including manufacturing and fulfillment, financial services, food and beverage, and medical devices. Many of the companies that Chris has worked with are brands that you would recognize every day. Chris’ passion is helping organizations and teams build cultures of problem solvers that engage every employee in the work of improvement. He is a Six Sigma Black Belt and holds his B.S. from Western Carolina University. Chris has been the host of The Lean Leadership Podcast since 2105. He is currently Senior Director, Lean Strategy at KaiNexus, a software company based in Austin, Texas, whose mission is to Spread Continuous Improvement. Important Links: Twitter: https://twitter.com/realburnham IG: @LeanPodcastHost Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/chrisburnham The Lean Leadership Podcast: https://leanleadershippodcast.com KaiNexus: https://kainexus.com
S1 E57 · Tue, November 02, 2021
Lean Transformation with Tony Hayes
This week I am chatting with Tony Hayes, an executive lean leader responsible for the Wabash management system, continuous improvement and quality at Wabash. In this episode, Tony and I talk about his experience with Lean and Lean culture as well as transformation and why it’s so important to create a story around transformation with Lean. What You’ll Learn This Episode: What makes a good Lean leader The characteristics of a bad Lean leader How to effectively scale during a transformation Spreading Lean culture in a large organization Creating development opportunities for leaders Having a dedicated lean team vs. having lean embedded in the organization Creating a story around why you’re changing The importance of creating a learning culture Problem solving in Lean culture About the Guest: Tony Hayes is an Executive Lean Leader, responsible for the Wabash Management System, Continuous Improvement and Quality at Wabash, supporting the CEO and the Executive Leadership Team, driving customer value creation. He has extensive experience in delivering profitable growth, improving risk profile, and increasing return on invested capital in the automotive, transportation, aerospace and defense industries. Tony is a seasoned operations and lean expert with extensive experience in strategy and organizational governance. Tony has utilized his lean expertise to assist organizations with their most complex problems in manufacturing, engineering, material planning and logistics, value chain management, and quality. As Global Lean Leader, Supply Chain at GE Transportation a Wabtec Company, a $11 billion operation, Tony was responsible for developing and driving the strategic vision of global continuous improvement across the enterprise. As the Ford Production System (FPS) Lean Implementation Manager – North American Car Region at Ford, Tony was instrumental in Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant’s journey to receiving the Shingo Prize, the highest standard for organizational excellence. Tony, a native of Grand Rapids, Michigan holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan. He also holds a Master of Science in Manufacturing Management, a Master of Science in Operations Management, and a Master of Business Administration, all obtained from Kettering University in Flint, Michigan. In addition, Tony is a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and is certified through University of Michigan in Lean Manufacturing and Operations, as well as Lean Office and Service, in addition to being a Shingo Institute Alumni. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyhayes
S1 E56 · Tue, October 26, 2021
Maintaining High Standards in Lean Six Sigma with Lee Campe
This week on the podcast, I am speaking with Lee Campe. Lee is the President of Performance Excellence Inc. and a Certified Six Sigma Master Black Belt. In this episode, Lee and I talk about his extensive training and experiences in Lean Six Sigma and Design for Six Sigma. We also talk about the importance of maintaining high standards in Lean Six Sigma and advice on training in LSS. What You’ll Learn This Episode: What frustrates Lee about the current Lean Six Sigma offerings, or the current Lean Six Sigma environment Lean and Six Sigma in the Army and how it transitioned to the civilian world Highlights Lee has had with his time using Lean Advice for leaders who don’t feel like they’re engaged in the process Why leaders need to remove roadblocks The importance of using phone for communication instead of relying on email MDAIC vs DMAIC Recommendations on certifying bodies How companies can maintain or enforce higher standards of Lean Six Sigma Why you need to have the people skills that are necessary in order to be a good problem solver in order to be a good lean practitioner. About the Guest: Lee Campe is a proven Lean Six Sigma deployment leader with a wide array of expertise in all facets of business and Continuous Improvement. He also is one of the few instructors with extensive experience in Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) and Innovation through design thinking. Prior to starting Performance Excellence, Lee was a Master Black Belt (MBB) for the Home Depot, where he was responsible for coaching employees and mentoring projects across the US. Projects Lee mentored provided the company with over $200 million in Savings. Prior to the Home Depot, Lee was the Vice President and Master Black Belt for JP Morgan Chase in New York. His responsibilities included coaching and training Champions, Black Belts, Green Belts, and management in the DMAIC and DFSS methodologies. During his tenure, Lee trained over 100 Champions and mentored three enterprise-wide projects that identified over $20 Million in potential savings. As an MBB and Director at Cordis Corporation, a $1.3 billion Johnson and Johnson company, Lee was responsible for driving the implementation of Six Sigma company wide. Previously, Lee worked as an MBB for General Electric Power Systems (GEPS) where he trained employees at all levels on GE’s Six Sigma programs. Important Links: https://leecampe.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/leecampe <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lean-Six-Sigma-defined-correctly-ebook/dp/B07B9K1ZFH/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=lee+campe&qid=1634924449&qsid=144-3832586-6393702&sr=8-1&sres=B07B9K1ZFH%2CB07XC3HK9N%2CB093GR995K%2CB08WYCT4
S1 E55 · Tue, October 19, 2021
Lean with Forbes Writer, Jim Vinoski
This week on the podcast, I am speaking with Jim Vinoski, a writer, manufacturing advocate and Lean expert with a focus in engineering, operations and management. In this episode, Jim and I talk about Lean in manufacturing and how leaders can involve and excite their team when it comes to implementing Lean. We also talk about some of the important lessons and tips Jim has for someone just starting out in Lean. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Jim’s best and worst lean experiences The culture of continuous appearance, what it is and how to avoid it How leaders can engage and involve their whole team Why ego is a big problem Why it’s important to be a student of Lean all the time Jim’s advice for people just starting their Lean journey About the Guest: Jim Vinoski has spent his entire three-decade career in manufacturing, in products ranging from paints and plastics to food and bourbon. His focus has been in engineering, operations, and management. He’s a veteran of companies large and small, including Ralston-Purina and General Mills. As a Contributor for Forbes, Jim has published over 200 articles covering all facets of manufacturing and supply chain. He’s explored a variety of topics in his column there: the success stories of numerous American manufacturers; the war for talent; and the amazing innovations in our advanced technologies, such as 3D printing, bioengineering, and artificial intelligence. Jim lives with his wife and two teenage sons in Grandville, Michigan. Important Links: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jimvinoski/?sh=76a0014b2a97 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimvinoski
S1 E54 · Tue, October 12, 2021
Operational Excellence in Government with Matthew Singh
This week on the podcast, I am speaking with Matthew Singh. Matthew is the Director of Operational Excellence and Master Black Belt for the Department of Administrative Services in the state of Nebraska and has 20 years of experience in progressive management roles. In this episode, Matt and I talk about Operational Excellence, his work in the state of Nebraska and the importance of listening to the voice of the customer as a leader. What You’ll Learn This Episode: How Matt got his start with Operational Excellence and Lean The importance of Voice of the Customer Building a culture of innovation The importance of asking for help as a team leader Why you need to understand the “why” behind Operational Excellence Nebraska and how the state is tackling Operational Excellence About the Guest: Matt Sing is the Director of Operational Excellence and Master Black Belt for the Department of Administrative Services in the state of Nebraska. Over the last 20 years he has previously served in a variety of progressive management roles including sales & service, operations, and supply chain. He is also certified as a Master Black Belt in Six Sigma, Master Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma, Certified Lean Sensei, and holds the Project Management Professional (PMP) credential. Singh is a member of the advisory board of directors for the Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC). He also serves on the University of Nebraska- Omaha advisory board of directors for their Supply Chain Management Programs. He holds the honor of being featured as a key stakeholder in a Harvard case study that is used by Harvard’s executive education program to teach others throughout the world about process improvement. Singh is involved with his local church in Gretna Nebraska where he lives with his wife Erin and their two children. Important Links: https://das.nebraska.gov/coe/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-singh-mba-ms-mbb-pmp-2512b463/
S1 E53 · Tue, October 05, 2021
Value Analysis & Value Engineering with Valorie Hendrix
On this week’s episode, I’m talking with Valorie Hendrix, the owner and consultant of Dynamic Empire Consulting. Valorie has over five years of working in different areas of project management, including cost reduction, Value Engineering, quality management, and Lean and Six Sigma. During this episode, Valorie and I talk about Value Engineering and Value Analysis, what it is and how you can integrate it into your organization. What You’ll Learn This Episode: What is VA/VE How your organization can get value in using VA/VE When to use VA/VE in your product development Can VA/VE be used with services? The tools and templates needed to work with VA/VE Using a tool set to identify waste within process When a business should implement VA/VE on their Lean journey Resources for VA/VE methodology Why Valorie wrote her book and how she started with VA/VE About the Guest: While finishing up the senior year of her undergraduate degree for Business Administration, Valorie Hendrix discovered Lean Six Sigma and Toyota Production System in her operations management class. After reading the chapter for continuous improvement, she knew this is what she was going to do to make a contribution to society. After graduating with her undergraduate degree, Valorie spent 10 years in Aluminum Boat Manufacturing. Starting as an accountant, she learned about the cost. During the 2008 Recession, she became a VA/VE engineer to help reduce costs and create higher functions so products would be more attractive to customers during this harsh time. Valorie completed her MBA from Webster University, the same time that the recession was ending. Allowing for more opportunities for more positions within the organization to open up. She then worked in Quality Assurance and Control and Lean Six Sigma Engineer until making the leap to become a business owner. Valorie is also the author of Streamlining Function and Value. Important Links: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1685248314/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_71WNQG03BKF2HKX3CMRH https://dynamicempireconsulting.com/
S1 E52 · Tue, September 28, 2021
Standard Work with Craig Tedrow
This week on the podcast, I’m excited to be talking with Craig Tedrow, an experienced Continuous Improvement professional with a demonstrated history of working in the automotive, aerospace, and defense industry. Craig is also a Senior Consultant at PA Consulting. In this episode, Craig and I talk about standard work, why it’s important to implement and how you can involve your team members with standard work to help improve your processes during the Lean journey. What You’ll Learn This Episode: What is standard work How to get your team members onboard with doing standard work that’s laid out How you can help your employees understand the importance of standard work The importance of consistency Involving your team in the process of standard work Auditing standard work and why it’s important How standard work plays in the Lean journey Where to start with standard work The importance of writing down your processes and using video About the Guest: Craig Tedrow is an experienced Continuous Improvement Professional with a demonstrated history of working in the automotive, aerospace, and defense industry. Skilled in Training Coordination, Continuous Improvement, Team Building Presentation Skills, and Conflict Management. Craig managed the Continuous Improvement department at Plasan Carbon Composites. During exponential growth, he developed a week-long training curriculum to provide a mix of lecture and lab instruction to on board new associates. He was Intensely involved in training and adherence to Standard Work Instructions using video technology, and training within Industry methods. He also helped to advance implementation of robotics and automation. Craig is currently a Senior Consultant at PA Consulting. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-tedrow-3a271762/
S1 E51 · Tue, September 21, 2021
Technology & Automation in Lean with Bruce Hamilton
This week on the podcast, I’m chatting with Bruce Hamilton. Bruce is President of GBMP, a Boston-based non-profit founded in 1994 that provides Lean and Six Sigma assistance to manufacturing, healthcare and service organizations. In this episode, Bruce and I chat about how technology development is impacting Lean and how organizations can reduce turnover and increase employee retention during Covid. What You’ll Learn This Episode: The Lean Toyota Production system and why some organizations have failed to see improvement from it Creating a unifying concept for both management and employees Employee retention strategies during Covid How technology could change Lean Using an automation solution and if it’s the right choice Some of Bruce’s biggest influences in Lean How to make a change in your organization without a leader driving it Advice for people starting their Lean journey About the Guest: Bruce Hamilton is President of GBMP, a Boston-based non-profit founded in 1994 that provides Lean and Six Sigma assistance to manufacturing, healthcare and service organizations. Prior to joining GBMP, Bruce spent thirty years in manufacturing, leading his factory to a Shingo Prize award in 1990. From 1996 to 1998, his factory was also a project site for the Toyota Production System Support Center (TSSC.) Bruce is author and actor in the 2004 Shingo Prize winning video, Toast Kaizen and co-author of the comprehensive multimedia training package, e2 Continuous Improvement System, which combines GBMP’s acclaimed video content with self-study workbooks, classroom learning and workplace practice. In 2000 he was inducted in the Shingo Prize Academy and in 2015 was inducted into the AME Manufacturing Hall of Fame. GBMP is an affiliate of the Shingo Institute and provides an annual Northeast L.E.A.N. Conference, http://www.northeastleanconference.org , held October 6-7, 2021 at the MassMutual Center, Springfield, Massachusetts. Important Links: https://www.gbmp.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bruce-hamilton-a09a4616/ http://www.northeastleanconference.org/
S1 E50 · Tue, September 14, 2021
Creating and Sustaining Solutions with Adam Lawrence
This week I’m talking with Adam Lawrence, the Managing Partner of Process Improvement Partners, LLC and the author of The Wheel of Sustainability. During this episode Adam and I talk about his book and what inspired him to write the book. We also talk about what the wheel of sustainability really means and how you can use this information to create sustainable solutions. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Why Adam wrote the Wheel of Sustainability and what he was trying to solve How to sustain the solutions you’ve created Using the wheel to strengthen leadership commitment What is the Wheel and what does each part mean Implementing the Wheel during a Kaizen event Why it’s important to celebrate wins About the Guest: Adam Lawrence is the Managing Partner of Process Improvement Partners, LLC. He has 30+ years of experience in process improvement activities, targeted at manufacturing and business processes. Having facilitated 300+ Kaizen events in multiple industries around the world, Adam aligns with leadership, engages teams, and creates sustainable results. Adam is also the author of The Wheel of Sustainability. Important Links: https://pi-partners.com/about https://www.amazon.com/Wheel-Sustainability-Engaging-Empowering-Produce-ebook/dp/B08VVX8F6Q
S1 E49 · Tue, September 07, 2021
Creating a Joyful Work Environment with Richard Sheridan
This week I’m talking with Richard Sheridan, the co-founder of Menlo Innovations where his team’s mission is to end human suffering in the workplace. Richard is also the author of J oy, Inc. - How We Built a Workplace People Love and Chief Joy Officer . In this episode, Rich and I talk about his company Menlo Innovations and the importance of having a balanced and satisfying work culture, including how you can bring about a culture change in your own organization. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Menlo Innovations and the process of finding and training Menlonians Teaching culture internally and externally Pairing- What it is and how it’s done How pairing helps the customer How to start a culture change in your organization About the Guest: Menlo Innovations CEO Rich Sheridan became disillusioned in the middle of his career in the chaotic technology industry. He had an all-consuming thought…things can be better. Much better. He had to find a way. Why couldn't a workplace be filled with camaraderie, human energy, creativity, and productivity? Ultimately, Rich co-founded Menlo Innovations in 2001 to end human suffering in the workplace. His unique approach to custom software creation is so surprisingly different, that 3,000 people a year travel from around the world just to see how they do it. His passion for creating joyful work environments led to his bestselling and widely celebrated book, Joy, Inc. - How We Built a Workplace People Love. His highly anticipated second book, Chief Joy Officer, came out December 4, 2018 and will continue to prove that a positive and engaging leadership style is actually good for business. Important Links: https://menloinnovations.com/ https://richardsheridan.com/
S1 E48 · Tue, August 31, 2021
Lean in Healthcare with Tanya Stinson
On the podcast this week I’m speaking with Tanya Stinson, who is the founder of Leaning Towards Change, LLC. and an experienced leader in Lean and the healthcare industry. During this episode, Tanya and I are talking about Lean and healthcare. We go over how a healthcare setting is different when it comes to Lean and how leaders can identify and reduce waste in order to better serve patients. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Waste in the healthcare world How perception plays a part in learning to see the waste What is a waste walk The problems a lack of communication can cause for teams The importance of being an effective listener Understanding the people side of change About Tanya’s business Leaning Towards Change and why she decided to start it About the Guest: Tanya Stinson is the founder of Leaning Towards Change, LLC and an experienced leader in the healthcare industry where she is responsible for performance improvement, quality, risk, patient safety and compliance. She serves as a mentor and a coach to physicians, nurses and other clinical and non clinical staff and utilizing Lean and Six Sigma methodology. Important Links: https://www.leaningtowardschange.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanya-stinson
S1 E47 · Tue, August 24, 2021
Continuous Improvement in the Social Sector with Brion Hurley
This week I’m speaking with Brion Hurley, a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt and founder of Business Performance Improvement, a sustainable process improvement consulting firm. In this episode, Brion and I talk about the major differences between Six Sigma and Lean and how continuous improvement can be applied to the social sector. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Lean vs. Six Sigma, the differences and commonalities How Lean can be applied in the social sector How Lean can be applied in the environment How Lean can be applied to the government How to find opportunities when it comes to volunteering with nonprofits and social sectors. Why it’s important to find your passion About the Guest: Brion Hurley is a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt at Business Performance Improvement. He teaches Lean and Six Sigma classes, facilitates workshops and events, performs statistical analysis, and mentors employees through improvement efforts. He volunteers his time with local nonprofits. He is also the author of the “ Lean Six Sigma for Good ” book series. Important Links: https://www.biz-pi.com/ https://www.leansixsigmaforgood.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brion-hurley-432192
S1 E46 · Tue, August 17, 2021
Operational Excellence with Dawn Holly Johnson
This week I’m speaking with Dawn Holly Johnson, the CEO of 3D value group and the author of the soon to be released book What CEOs Don't Know. During this episode, Dawn and I chat about Operational Excellence and how leaders can improve their overall organizational performance by adopting simple strategies and lean concepts. What You’ll Learn This Episode: What compelled Dawn to write her book The top 3 areas that are lacking in traditional organizations when it comes to Operational Excellence Why top organizations need to adopt Lean and Operational Excellence What you can apply today to improve organizational performance About the Guest: As an Organizational Engineer with transformational experience in every major industry and in every size company, Dawn has been the catalyst for businesses to realize over $6B in cash flow improvements. She is the CEO of 3D value group and the author of the soon to be released book What CEOs Don't Know. Important Links: https://www.dawnhollyjohnson.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnhollyjohnson https://www.wildlysuccessfulenterprises.com/
S1 E45 · Tue, August 10, 2021
Developing High Performing Leaders with Deb Coviello
This week I’m speaking with Deb Coviello. Deb is the founder of Illumination Partners, Author of the book CEO’s Compass - Your Guide to Getting Back on Track and the host of The Drop In CEO Podcast. In this episode, Deb and I talk about developing high performing leaders, how you can find them and the best ways to prepare them for their leadership roles. What You’ll Learn This Episode: The inspiration behind writing her book What is a high performer and can everyone be a high performer? Developing high performers What should a leader be doing to help develop the next high performer Signs that you are losing emerging leaders How to prepare team members when promoting them to leadership positions How to look out for and find the best emerging leaders About the Guest: Deb Coviello is the Founder of Illumination Partners and the host of The Drop In CEO podcast. For more than twenty years, she has been transforming businesses from within, elevating the talents of their organizations to new performance levels. Her experience has taught her to put tremendous value on people, whom she considers as the heart of every business. As The Drop In CEO Deb provides her clients with 25+ years worth of experience and strategy in Quality and Operational Excellence roles combined with her 20 years in the Flavors and Fragrance industry, to identify, assess,and solve the issues that are preventing their business growth. Certified as Lean and Six Sigma Blackbelt in Process Improvement, she has also developed significant leadership insight that “People’’ are your greatest tool in your toolbox. In order to deliver on her promise of offering “peace of mind,” she focuses on utilizing the talents of her client’s team and elevating them to new levels of performance, setting them up to better serve their organization. When she isn’t transforming businesses from within, Deb is a board member of Women in Flavor & Fragrance Commerce, (WFFC), an avid Curler with the Cincinnati Curling Club, a mother of 3 and resides in Cincinnati Ohio with her Husband Dan of 32 years. Important Links: Email: deborah@coviellocm.com Website: https://dropinceo.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahacoviello/ Drop in CEO Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-drop-in-ceo/id1498953914?ls=1 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IlluminationPartnersLLC/ Twitter: @DropinCEO Instagram: @dropinceo
S1 E44 · Tue, August 03, 2021
Returning to the Office after the Pandemic with Crystal Davis
This week I’m speaking with Crystal Davis, an experienced business process improvement consultant and certified leadership development coach and CEO of The Lean Coach, Inc. Crystal and I talk about how leaders and businesses can shift to efficiently working during the pandemic and how leaders can help their team members with the adjustment of returning to the workplace as we come out of the pandemic. What You’ll Learn This Episode: How the pandemic has shifted how Crystal works with clients Project management focus The importance of meeting the client where they are at The importance of taking a break and reflecting as a leader How leaders can help team members as they return to work after the pandemic Why leaders should continue the learning process About the Guest: Crystal Davis is the CEO of The Lean Coach, Inc. and an experienced business process improvement consultant and certified leadership development coach with over twenty years of experience in the design, development, and implementation of Lean Business System solutions across a wide range of industries. Crystal is a sought-after international speaker, host and podcaster with International Business Growth Radio (IBGR), and has spoken at numerous conferences around the world. Crystal’s work and thought leadership has been published in The Journal of Cost Accounting, and Lean Six Sigma Review. Throughout Crystal’s career, she was fortunate to serve as a Master Black Belt, to be mentored by two Toyota sensei in the Toyota Production System, and to lead three teams to receive awards and recognition from lean organizations. Crystal serves on the OPEX Board of Directors, and Lean Six Sigma and Data Conference board for the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE). Crystal served as the conference chair in 2019, introducing Big Data and Artificial Intelligence to the conference. She also serves on the editorial board for ASQ's Lean Six Sigma Review publication, where she served as guest editor for the inaugural all women’s special edition. Important Links: ww.theleancoachinc.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystalydavis/
S1 E43 · Tue, July 27, 2021
Workplace Culture with Siobhan McHale
This week I’m speaking with Siobhan McHale, the Executive General Manager of People, Culture & Change (HR) at DuluxGroup and the author of The Insider’s Guide to Culture Change: Creating a Workplace that Delivers, Grows, and Adapts. Siobhan and I talk about the importance of workplace culture and the steps you need to take to bring about a culture change in your workplace. What You’ll Learn This Episode: What is workplace culture? The typical patterns of workplace culture Creating culture change in the workplace Role reframing and how it relates to workplace culture The steps to take to bring about culture shift About the Guest: Siobhan (pronounced ‘Shiv-awn’) McHale is the Executive General Manager of People, Culture & Change (HR) at DuluxGroup a paints company based in Melbourne, Australia. She is the author of The Insider’s Guide to Culture Change: Creating a Workplace that Delivers, Grows, and Adapts. Siobhan has worked across four continents, helping thousands of leaders to create more agile and productive workplaces. She has been on the “inside”, as the executive in charge of culture change in a series of multinational organizations. One of these inside jobs was a radical seven-year change initiative at Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) that transformed it from the lowest-performing bank in the country into one of the highest-performing banks in the world. Important Links: https://www.siobhanmchale.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/mchalesiobhan/?originalSubdomain=au https://www.amazon.com/Insiders-Guide-Culture-Change-Workplace/dp/1400214653
S1 E42 · Tue, July 20, 2021
Success at Kaizen Events with Mike Leigh
This week I’m speaking with Mike Leigh, who is the President of OpX Solutions, a performance improvement company that helps manufacturers remove the barriers that prevent them from achieving their goals by developing leaders and improving processes. In this episode we talk about Kaizen events, including why they are important and how to ensure that the outcome of the event is successful. What You’ll Learn This Episode: What are Kaizen events and what is their purpose How to define success at a Kaizen event The main factors that influence success and how to determine them How to hold a successful Kaizen event Having the right mindset during a Kaizen event Inviting leaders to participate in Kaizen events About the Guest: Mike Leigh started OpX Solutions to help manufacturers and other organizations be more successful. Prior to starting his company, Mike had a 13-year manufacturing career where he held a variety of operational supply chain leadership roles. Prior to that, he served in the US Navy as a surface warfare officer where he specialized in nuclear propulsion, and later retired as a Commander in the reserves. Additionally, Mike writes a monthly article on business operations for Valley Business FRONT magazine, was recognized as the Virginia Small Business Veteran of the Year by the state SBDC organization, and his business is currently the #1 franchise in the Americas with Leadership Management International. When not working, Mike enjoys hiking, traveling, and following the Green Bay Packers. Important Links: Company Website: https://opxsolutionsllc.com/ Linked-In Sites: OpX Solutions: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opx-solutions-llc/ Mike’s profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeleighopxsolutions/
S1 E41 · Tue, July 13, 2021
Creating a Lean Culture with David Mann
This week I’m speaking with David Mann, who has over 25 years of consulting on lean and lean management implementations in a wide range of manufacturing, health care, enterprise business processes, and extended value chains. In this episode we talk about David’s book and one of my favorite lean books, Creating a Lean Culture and how you can create the behaviors and practices of a lean management system in your own organization. What You’ll Learn This Episode: What inspired David to write Creating a Lean Culture The specific behaviors and practices that instilled a lean management system Mindset shifts for implementing lean systems The most important aspect in sustaining a lean culture Where David has seen the elements of lean management applied About the Guest: David Mann is the principal of David Mann Lean Consulting. In 15 years of lean experience at Steelcase Inc., Mann developed the concepts and tools of a lean management system, supporting 40+ lean manufacturing value stream transformations, and then leading an internal team that completed over 100 successful lean conversions in administrative and business process value streams. He established a consulting practice in 2005, serving organizations across industries worldwide. David is an implementer, consultant, coach, teacher and the author of the book Creating a Lean Culture, in which he won a Shingo Award. Important Links: https://dmannlean.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Creating-Lean-Culture-David-Mann/dp/1482243237
S1 E40 · Tue, July 06, 2021
Different Styles of Leadership with John Dyer
This week I’m speaking with John Dyer, an author, speaker, teacher and consultant in team based continuous process improvement. With over 30 years experience, he is the President of John Dyer & Associates where he works with leaders in many different industries in the area of process improvement and leadership development. In this episode we talk about the different styles of leadership and how they apply to transforming the overall culture of an organization. We also chat about John’s book, The Façade of Excellence, and how it relates to different types of leaders and sustainable process improvement. What You’ll Learn This Episode: How continuous improvement has changed over the years Culture of continuous appearance John’s book, The Façade of Excellence, and why he wrote it The main ingredient to making any improvement initiative successful Why leaders need to adapt to different situations About the Guest: John Dyer is the President of John Dyer & Associates, where he works with leaders in a variety of Continuous Improvement and Operational Excellence initiatives. John is also the author of the book The Façade of Excellence, Defining a New Normal of Leadership. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-dyer-75a646/ https://twitter.com/JohnDyerPI https://www.amazon.com/Fa%C3%A7ade-Excellence-Defining-Normal-Leadership/dp/0367145332/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3VPWAXQE0RTYB&dchild=1&keywords=the+facade+of+excellence+john+dyer&qid=1622834304&sprefix=the+facade+of+%2Cstripbooks%2C163&sr=8-1
S1 E39 · Tue, June 29, 2021
Leading with Intention with Katie Anderson
This week I’m chatting with Katie Anderson, an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant, author and professional speaker. Katie is best known for her focus on helping individuals and organizations lead with intention. Katie is also the author of “Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn” and wrote the forward for my book. In this episode we talk about being an intentional leader, and creating a structure for your learning and practice. What You’ll Learn This Episode: What it means to be an intentional leader 3 skills to becoming a more intentional leader Finding your clarity The importance of asking questions Creating a habit of reflection The shift from PDCA to SAPD About the Guest: Katie Anderson is an internationally recognized leadership coach, consultant, author and professional speaker. She has over 20 years of experience in supporting change and improvement in organizations across a range of industries, though her primary focus has been on leading transformational change in healthcare organizations. Katie launched KBJ Anderson Consulting in 2013, to help individuals and organizations gain clarity on their goals, deepen their problem solving skills, and develop more effective leadership habits. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson/ https://kbjanderson.com/
S1 E38 · Tue, June 22, 2021
Building a Solid Foundation for Productivity with Paul Dunlop
This week I’m chatting with Paul Dunlop, a Lean expert and Principal Consultant with over 20 years of management and manufacturing experience across a broad range of industries. In this episode we talk about focusing on accountability and performance management to improve your overall productivity. We also chat about why it’s so important to build your improvement on a solid foundation so that you can move from chaos and lack of structure to calm productivity. What You’ll Learn This Episode: How to build improvement activity on a good foundation The importance of accountability Performance management and why it’s needed The idea of perfection and why it may be stopping you Fear and leadership Making behavior visual About the Guest: In his operational management roles Paul Dunlop has led successful Lean implementation and transformations using the principles of the Toyota Production System and is green belt certified. Paul’s passion for operational excellence using Lean tools and methodology has helped drive sustained continuous improvement and financial performance at many businesses. Paul’s human centered approach focuses on engaging the ongoing support and commitment of both frontline staff and senior management through effective Lean leadership to facilitate engagement and inclusive problem-solving cultures. Paul supports and encourages organizations and individuals to go from chaos to calm productivity. Important Links: https://www.dunlopconsultants.com.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dunlopconsultants/
S1 E37 · Tue, June 15, 2021
Personal Development and A3 Thinking with Pennie Saum
This week I’m chatting with Pennie Saum, a process improvement expert currently in the transportation field about her experience with Lean and how her past personal struggles have influenced her today. In this episode, we talk about Pennie’s work with process improvement, employee engagement, and A3 thinking. We also go into detail about her work as an author and speaker working with survivors of trauma and abuse. What You’ll Learn This Episode: A3 thinking The importance of personal development Engagement and productivity improvement Penny’s experience with trauma A3 thinking in your personal life and personal development Knowing your “why” The Be Loud Movement About the Guest: Penny Saum is a continuous process improvement expert currently in the transportation field with an emphasis on employee engagement and productivity improvement. Pennie has focused heavily on employee mentoring, employee development and driving continuous improvement through the training of employees. Throughout her career in Lean, Pennie has developed strategy, people, process and structural solutions that have met business needs by analyzing the organization’s current states and utilizing continuous improvement methodology. She has had successful implementation in employee development, streamlining business processes, enhancing operational efficiency, implementing cost control measures and enhancing the employee experience. Pennie Saum is also the author of Brave and Unbroken, a speaker, advocate, law changer, and voice seeker who has dedicated her life to helping victims use their voice to move through trauma and grief. She has a passion for helping child sexual abuse victims thrive. Pennie is determined to impact those who are struggling the trauma of child sexual abuse. Important Links: Ted Talk Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1l7R3Zuv8Is http://penniesaum.com/ http://www.braveandunbroken.com/
S1 E36 · Tue, June 08, 2021
Lean in the Office with Tim Schipper
This week, I’m talking to lean expert Tim Schipper about his book Innovative Lean Development and The Highly Effective Office and how you can incorporate lean into your office. In this episode we talk about how to use lean techniques in the office and admin side of business to eliminate excess waste so your business and team can be at their optimal performance. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Using lean in your office and the administrative side of business Eliminating motion waste and excess processing Lean focus for optimizing flow in the office Value stream maps in the office How to engage team members from the beginning The value of exposing waste Visuals for daily management About the Guest: Tim Schipper is the author of Innovative Lean Development and The Highly Effective Office. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Lean Product and Process Development Exchange, an organization promoting the exchange of information between companies in the areas of lean product and lean process development. Tim is an agile and lean expert, teacher, and coach. Important Links: https://www.amazon.com/Timothy-Schipper/e/B0026GSQTI?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1621458548&sr=1-1 https://www.linkedin.com/in/timschipper/
S1 E35 · Tue, June 01, 2021
Daily Management with Calvin Williams
This week, I’m speaking with the founder and CEO of Impruver, Inc. Calvin Williams. Calvin founded Impruver Technologies after working for 20 years as an Operations Leader and Engineer with some of America’s premier manufacturing companies, generating Billions in growth opportunities and cost savings for those he has served. In this episode we talk about daily improvement and self discipline to leverage your continuous improvement journey. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Impruver and the benefits of using software in lean The connection between lean and fitness Daily habits for daily improvement The importance of self-discipline Time management and making time to improve About the Guest: Calvin Williams is the Founder and CEO of Impruver, Inc. and has also worked as a continuous improvement coach and consultant after spending many years as an industrial engineer and CI practitioner. Calvin built Impruver to address the challenges all companies seemed to face in their efforts to get better. These challenges include: lack of CI skills development throughout the enterprise, lack of leadership support and engagement, and lack of sufficient tools and information. Important Links: https://impruver.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/calvin-l-williams/
S1 E34 · Tue, May 25, 2021
‘How to Improve Absolutely Anything’ with Katie Labedz
This week, I’m speaking with certified Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, Project Management Professional and CI Instructor Katie Labedz, about her new book “How to Improve Absolutely Anything.” In this episode we talk about Katie’s recent book and the importance of continuous improvement including how to integrate it into your everyday life even outside of the office. What You’ll Learn This Episode: Visual leadership and how to use it How you can use continuous improvement in your everyday life including at home How Katie got her start in Lean and Six Sigma Katie’s favorite lean tools from her book What inspired Katie to write her book About the Guest: Katie Labedz is a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt with over 20 years of experience implementing continuous improvement solutions within non-manufacturing and manufacturing environments. Her company is Learning to Lean. Katie also has her Master's certification in instructional design, her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification through PMI and is a certified instructor/facilitator through Langevin. Important Links: https://www.learningtolean.training/ https://www.amazon.com/How-Improve-Absolutely-Anything-Improvement/dp/B08ZDV42RF/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=katie+labedz&qid=1618940328&sr=8-1
S1 E33 · Tue, May 18, 2021
Kind Leadership with Karyn Ross
This week, I’m speaking with Karyn Ross, the author of How to Coach for Creativity and Service Excellence: A Lean Coaching Workbook, and coauthor of the Shingo Award-winning, The Toyota Way to Service Excellence: Lean Transformation in Service Organizations. Karyn is an internationally acclaimed consultant, coach and lean practitioner, and focuses on teaching organizations of all sizes and sectors how to use creativity combined with Toyota Way principles, practices and tools. This powerful combination enables organizations to create better, more effective and efficient ways to work. While many other Lean consultants focus on implementing tools, Karyn teaches teams how to use Practical Creativity™ to continuously strive towards service excellence. Karyn is on a mission to 'Help People Improve the World'. In this episode we talk about the important link between leadership and kindness, how to practice kindness in community and the impact listening can have when you’re in a leadership role. Important Links: https://karynrossconsulting.com/ https://loveandkindnessproject.org/ http://bit.ly/2R2qvo9 https://karynrossconsulting.com/announcing-the-new-school-for-kind-leaders-2/ https://womeninlean.org/
S1 E32 · Tue, May 11, 2021
Leadership and Lean with Bob Emiliani
This week, I’m talking with Bob Emiliani, engineer, researcher, author, historian of progressive management, educational reformer, and executive coach. Bob is also a long-time TPS/Lean practitioner and was the first to focus on so-called "Lean leadership" as an area of scholarly study. Dr. Emiliani is an accomplished author whose work spans three disciplines: engineering, social sciences, and humanities. He has authored or co-authored 45 peer-reviewed papers in six different subject areas (leadership, management, management history, supply chain management, higher education, and materials engineering) and is the author or co-author of 22 books. In this episode we talk about the teachings in Bob’s books, loosening the grip of classical management, how to be successful with Lean and why leaders resist or reject Lean. Important Links: BobEmiliani.com Link to register for Summer Learning Festival https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUkcOyrrTkoEtRaHkGa0F2FPMb3cZru5xPA https://bobemiliani.com/book/triumph-classical-management/ https://bobemiliani.com/book/irrational-institutions/ https://bobemiliani.com/book/management-mysterium/
S1 E31 · Tue, May 04, 2021
Leaders Need Clarity with Karen Martin
This week, I’m talking with Karen Martin, President of the global consulting firm TKMG, Inc. and President and Founder of TKMG Academy, Inc. Karen is a leading authority on business performance improvement, problem solving, and Lean management systems. Known for her keen diagnostic skills and rapid-results approach, Karen and her team have worked with clients—such as Adventist Health, AT&T, Chevron, Epson, GlaxoSmithKline, Goodwill Industries, International Monetary Fund, Lenovo, Mayo Clinic, Prudential Insurance, Qualcomm, and the United States Department of Homeland Security—to develop more efficient work systems, grow market share, solve business problems, and accelerate performance. Karen Martin is also an established author and her latest book, Clarity First, reveals how to use clarity to unleash potential, innovate at higher levels, and solve problems more effectively. In this episode we talk about clarity and how to address fear so you can break through any barriers blocking clarity. Important Links: vwww.tkmg.com www.tkmgacademy.com https://twitter.com/karenmartinopex https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenmartinopex/
S1 E30 · Tue, April 27, 2021
Continuous Improvement and Strategic Vision Boarding with Deondra Wardelle
This week, I’m talking with Deondra Wardelle, a corporate trainer, licensed health coach, problem solver, motivational speaker and continuous improvement professional. Deondra is an inspirational leader who serves as a strategic business partner, cultural change steward and operational expert. She has effectively led change management process strategies that facilitate organizational transformation and increase overall capabilities. While her inclusive management style encourages idea sharing and inspires exceptionalism in others, her proven ability to design and deliver a comprehensive range of learning solutions has produced measurable results for her clients. In this episode, we talk about Deondra’s strategic vision boarding, her work with Kata, and her leadership role with #rootcauseracism. Important Links: https://www.deondrawardelle.com/ https://twitter.com/DeondraWardelle https://www.linkedin.com/in/deondrarwardelle/
S1 E30 · Tue, April 20, 2021
Ron Pereira on Six Sigma and Gemba Academy
In this episode, I talk with Ron Pereira, the co-founder of Gemba Academy and the host of the Gemba Academy Podcast. Ron also has more than 20 years experience working in operations, engineering, supply chain, and continuous improvement. We talk about Ron’s start with Lean and Six Sigma, how the Gemba Academy was born, the importance of scientific thinking and his advice to anyone on the continuous improvement journey. Important Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leansixsigmaacademy/ https://www.gembaacademy.com/ https://blog.gembaacademy.com/podcasts/
S1 E29 · Tue, April 13, 2021
Where Are Your Leaders Spending Their Time?
In this episode, I introduce you to Question 2 out of my book, Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap: Where Are Your Leaders Spending Their Time? I talk about leader standard work, Dr. Jeff Liker's Leadership Development Model, and the 6 key traits of a lean leader.
S1 E28 · Tue, April 06, 2021
Leveraging Lean in Healthcare
In this episode, I talk with Charlie Protzman about how to leverage lean in the healthcare industry. Charlie gives us some great history around PDCA as well as a deep dive into a few case studies where he applied the BASICS Lean Implementation Model in hospitals.
S1 E27 · Wed, March 31, 2021
One Marshmallow Can Change The Way You Think About Problem Solving
In this episode, I play back a recording of a workshop presentation I gave at the Lean Six Sigma World Conference where I discussed the famous Marshmallow Challenge. I introduced some facilitation techniques and discussion questions for exercise reflection time.
S1 E26 · Tue, March 16, 2021
Dr. Jeff Liker and The Toyota Way
In this episode, I interview Dr. Jeff Liker about The Toyota Way 2nd Edition which was recently published. We talk about sustainment of continuous improvement initiatives, specifically, CONTROL vs. LEARNING environments. We also discuss how Dr. Liker is using virtual reality to teach The Toyota Way in 2021.
S1 E25 · Tue, March 09, 2021
Challenges with Lean and Six Sigma
In this episode, I talk with my guest, John Dennis, about the International Lean Six Sigma Institute. We talk about the differences between Lean and Six Sigma and dive into the challenges organizations face when adopting these into their organizations.
S1 E24 · Wed, March 03, 2021
A New Management System
In this episode, I discuss the new management system needed to support and sustain continuous improvement initiatives. I give listeners an overview of the leadership traits and behaviors necessary to support lean initiatives. This is a great episode to share with your leadership team!
S1 E23 · Tue, February 23, 2021
Avoiding The Continuous Appearance Trap
In this episode, listeners will hear an introduction to my new book, Avoiding The Continuous Appearance Trap. I discuss the book dedication, introduction, and dive into the first of the twelve questions: Are you Content. Get your copy at www.avoidcontinuousappearance.com.
S1 E22 · Fri, February 19, 2021
Lean Leadership Defined
In this episode, listeners will hear a piece from our Lean Leadership Certification as the Lean Solutions Academy. I explain the difference between leadership and management, identify the five leadership actions, and define servant leadership.
S1 E21 · Thu, February 11, 2021
Value Stream Mapping
In this short episode, I give an introduction to value stream mapping along with six steps to create a value stream map. I also list the eight point future state criteria.
S1 E20 · Tue, January 26, 2021
Toyota Kata, A Practice Routine to Hardwire Scientific Thinking
This episode was recorded as a webinar with Dorsey Sherman, Executive Leadership & Kata Coach. We define and explore Improvement Kata in detail.
S1 E19 · Tue, December 22, 2020
Coaching & Leader Standard Work to Help People Find Certainty in Uncertain Times
In this episode, I talk with Steve Kane, the Director of Customer Success at the Gemba Academy. This was a recorded webinar from a few months back but is still very relevant today as we begin looking forward into 2021. Enjoy!
S1 E18 · Tue, December 08, 2020
Cashing the Check in Lean Transformation with Jack Kahler
In this episode, Jack Kahler and I discuss why "cashing the check" and bottom-line impact is so important for lean initiatives. We also discuss how to "speak the same language" as executive decision-makers when it comes to improvements and cost savings. Jack can be contacted by emailing him at jack.kahler@xenov8.com.
S1 E17 · Tue, December 01, 2020
Lean in Higher Education
In this episode I talk with Dagmar Vlahos, Lean Professional at the University of New Hampshire about Lean in Higher Education. We discuss their model for business improvements as well as the impact of covid 19 on her work at the university.
S1 E16 · Tue, November 24, 2020
Continue to Improve
In episode 13, I discussed the importance of keeping things simple. Then in episode 15, I gave a deep dive into keeping things visual. In this episode, I talk about the final aspect of great lean cultures which is continuous improvement. I give you three points to remember when developing a continuous improvement culture.
S1 E15 · Tue, November 17, 2020
Keep It Visual!
In this episode, I discuss the second area important in supporting a culture of continuous improvement; keep it visual! I talk about three points that are important to remember when it comes to keeping things visual. Enjoy!
S1 E14 · Fri, November 06, 2020
Building Intentional Curiosity with Panos Efsta
In this episode, we travel back to May of 2020 when Panos Efsta presented some great insights around the importance of curiosity and system thinking. We also talk about TWI, Job Methods, and even Toyota Kata!
S1 E13 · Fri, October 23, 2020
Keep It Simple!
One of the biggest reasons people fail to maintain a robust lean system is their desire for complexity. This desire seems to be human nature. We begin simply enough, but then we add more and more levels of complexity until eventually, we have a system that takes far too long to maintain.When we are working with human beings, we must keep things as simple as possible or things will begin to fall apart. In this episode, I give you three points to remember to help keep things simple.
S1 E12 · Wed, October 21, 2020
Thriving in Chaos: A Discussion with the Author, Robert Heath Sr.
In this episode, Robert Heath and I discuss his newest book, Thriving in Chaos, with a deep dive into two of the five steps to mastering your time and improving your personal productivity.
S1 E11 · Wed, October 07, 2020
Entrepreneurial Operating System with Ken Kooistra
In this episode I talk with Ken Kooistra, a Professional EOS Implementer at Georgetown Innovations, about the 5 Leadership Abilities taught through the EOS system.
S1 E10 · Mon, September 28, 2020
Is It Safe For Your Employees to Fail?
In this episode, I address the topic of failure. One of my favorite books was written by Michael Abrashoff, a former Navy Commander. He wrote the book, It’s Your Ship: Management Techniques from the Best Damn Ship in the Navy, a story of organizational transformation and innovative leadership. In this episode I talk about decision making and risk necessary to create a culture of continuous improvement. Enjoy!
S1 E9 · Wed, September 16, 2020
Measures of Success with Mark Graban
In this episode, Mark and I discuss his new book, Measures of Success. During the conversation, we talk about the ups and downs of business and how to properly measure and manage for success. Mark gives us an understanding of process behavior charts, vanity metrics, and we even get into the red bead experiment! Don't forget to check out Mark's new podcast, "My Favorite Mistake." You can also find it at www.MyFavoriteMistakePodcast.com
S1 E8 · Thu, September 10, 2020
Behavioral Science Applied to Business
In this episode I talk with Edward Blackman, global consultant and founder of Kelda Consulting, about behavior and how it affects business. We discuss topics like feedback, performance reviews, the red bead experiment, and company strategy. Enjoy!
S1 E7 · Thu, August 27, 2020
Who's Responsible for Bad Decisions?
In this episode, I introduce an empowerment coninuum we use to help determine the level of empowerment in an organization and whether or not teams are ready to move toward shared accountability.
S1 E6 · Fri, August 21, 2020
Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn
In this episode, I spoke with Katie Anderson just before her book launch and gained an insider's view of how the book was written and why. Listen in as Katie talks about her and Mr. Yoshino's intentions behind the book, their journey together, and the many learnings along the way for Mr. Yoshino and Katie herself.
S1 E5 · Wed, August 05, 2020
The US Marine Corps and Sustaining Lean Initiatives
In this episode, I give three ways to sustain lean initiatives as learned in recruit training at the US Marine Corps.
S1 E4 · Wed, July 29, 2020
The Toyota Engagement Equation
In this episode, I replay a webinar with Ernie and Tracey Richardson as we discuss their book, 'The Toyota Engagement Equation' and the many leanrings from working with Toyota over 30 years.
S1 E3 · Tue, July 14, 2020
Fuel the Fire of Continuous Improvement
In this episode, I talk about the ingredients necessary to spark and maintain a fire of continuous improvement in your organization.
S1 E2 · Sat, July 04, 2020
Getting People Unstuck
In this episode, I'll be talking specifically about the leadership behaviors necessary to support a continuous improvement journey.
S1 E1 · Sat, June 27, 2020
Welcome to The Lean Solutions Podcast
In this introduction episode, Patrick Adams introduces listeners to The Lean Solutions Podcast. He discussed the background, motivation, and metric impact from this past year.
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