“They’ll Eat You Alive.”: Jenny Drescher & Ellen Feldman Ornato on Flipping Power and Facing Resistance in Manufacturing

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer engages with Ellen Feldman-Ornato and Jenny Drescher to explore the intricacies of organizational culture, personal journeys, and the importance of behavioral change in the workplace. They discuss the significance of defining culture, the challenges of implementing change, and the impact of generational dynamics on workplace behavior. The conversation also highlights the birth of the Boulder Company, their podcast initiative, and the importance of humor and lightness in navigating workplace challenges.

Takeaways

• Culture is essential and should be considered table stakes for any organization.
• Good culture varies from organization to organization, but respect and positive behaviors are key.
• Behavioral change requires time, practice, and accountability among team members.
• Consultants must engage deeply with clients to foster real change, not just surface-level fixes.
• Generational differences impact workplace dynamics and behaviors significantly.
• Humor can be a powerful tool in navigating workplace challenges and fostering connection.
• The Boulder Company was born from a shared passion for applied improvisation and culture work.
• Effective communication is crucial for a thriving workplace culture.
• People need to focus on personal growth and deeper understanding rather than just accumulating knowledge.
• The podcast aims to elevate the voices of women in manufacturing and promote the industry as a viable career path.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Icebreakers
• 04:25 Defining Culture in Organizations
• 07:40 Personal Journeys and Early Experiences
• 12:36 The Birth of the Boulder Company
• 16:42 Behavioral Change and Effective Training
• 21:56 The Evolution of Manufacturing Support
• 23:34 Embracing Uniqueness and Personal Growth
• 25:40 Going Deeper in Leadership Skills
• 28:21 The Reality of Behavioral Change in Organizations
• 31:05 Finding the Right Fit in Consulting
• 33:12 Vetting Clients for Effective Change
• 35:54 Generational Dynamics in the Workplace
• 39:20 Highlighting Women in Manufacturing
• 41:46 Lightening Up in the Workplace
• 47:13 Building Trust and Connection

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