Authentic Ewe Podcast Navigating Complexity with Dave Snowden
96 snips
Sep 25, 2025 
In this discussion, guest Dave Snowden, founder of The Cynefin Company, dives into the intricate world of organizational complexity. He reframes psychological safety as a tool for recognizing risks rather than mere comfort. Dave introduces the Cynefin framework, emphasizing its practical application for leaders in navigating uncertainty. He explores the role of micro-narratives in capturing authentic employee perspectives and advocates for team dynamics based on roles rather than names. With innovative approaches, he guides how to foster trust and effective communication in workplaces.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Why Voice And Epistemic Justice Matter
- Dave Snowden builds methods to give people their own voice and resist cultural imposition.
- He frames his work as applying natural science to social systems to preserve epistemic justice.
Different Domains Need Different Decisions
- The Cynefin framework maps Ordered, Complex and Chaotic domains and uses phase-shift metaphors.
- You must make different decisions in different domains; one-size-fits-all management fails.
Start By Drawing And Using Exemplars
- Learn to draw the Cynefin framework and use quick courses to practice it.
- Use simple exemplars from your organisation to position situations rather than abstract matrices.