Eliminating Bad Execution: Making Strategy Work with Daniel Mälsjö

What separates teams that talk about OKRs from those that actually use them to change how they work? In this episode, I sit down with Daniel Mälsjö, founder of FutureWorks, whose mission is simple, eliminate bad execution.

Daniel and his team coach leaders and build OKR software designed to drive focus, rhythm, and culture change. He shares how OKR reboots have become more common than first-time adoptions, why bravery beats process, and what really happens when leadership doesn’t follow through.

We dive into leadership courage, the difference between applying a structure and changing a way of working, and why fear of failure often drives faster results than hope of success. Daniel also shares his perspective on culture, trust, and how leaders create the foundations for psychological safety and accountability.

If you’re wondering how to turn OKR from a tick-box exercise into a transformation engine, this episode gives you the raw truth.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Strategy Candy Podcast

00:39 Meet Daniel: The OKR Expert

01:34 FutureWorks: Eliminating Bad Execution

02:52 Diverse Clientele and OKR Implementation

05:06 Challenges in OKR Adoption

07:32 The Importance of Management Support

14:22 Daniel's Journey with OKRs

17:33 The Role of Customer Experience

22:55 Handling Challenges and Team Dynamics

23:54 Exploring Leadership and Team Dynamics

24:28 The Importance of Psychological Safety

26:34 Implementing OKRs: Challenges and Insights

27:19 Assessing Team Psychological Safety

29:27 Addressing Managerial Resistance

33:03 Common Mistakes with OKRs

40:25 Innovative Approaches to OKRs

44:21 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Resource Links

• FutureWorks OKR Platform — FutureworksFutureworks OKR Software: Align Teams, Drive Results
• Our Iceberg Is Melting by John Kotter — Kotterinc Our Iceberg Is Melting - Kotter International Inc

OKR Quickstart Guide & Resources HERE

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