People Solve Problems

Cheryl Stokes, the CEO of CNEXT, joined Jamie Flinchbaugh on his podcast "People Solve Problems" to share her insights into corporate education, leadership development, culture change, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. With a rich background that spans over two decades, Cheryl has significantly contributed to these fields through her roles at Heidrick & Struggles and Duke Corporate Education before her current role. Her educational achievements include two Master of Science degrees from MIT and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Kettering University, equipping her with a unique perspective on leadership and organizational effectiveness. In the episode, Cheryl discusses the concept of inclusion, defining it as the intentional creation of an environment where all individuals can contribute productively. She stresses the importance of moving beyond merely assembling diverse groups to ensuring active participation and listening within these groups. She emphasizes that inclusion requires deliberate effort and intentionality to be meaningful and effective. Cheryl elaborates on the concept of inclusive leadership, which she describes as the ability to foster an environment that celebrates and utilizes the diversity of a team. She outlines the traits of an inclusive leader, including humility, self-awareness, curiosity about others, cultural intelligence, the ability to collaborate effectively, and a visible commitment to inclusion. These traits, according to Cheryl, are essential for leaders who aim to unlock the full potential of their teams by creating a culture of belonging and engagement. The conversation also touched on the equation of diversity and inclusion, with Cheryl explaining that while diversity is a fact, inclusion is an act that leads to a sense of belonging, which in turn drives engagement within organizations. This engagement is crucial for achieving lower turnover rates, higher productivity, and overall organizational success. Cheryl's contributions extend beyond her professional work; she is involved in several organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and serves as a trustee with the UK charity Leadership Through Sport and Business, supporting disadvantaged young people. Her commitment to fostering inclusive environments and promoting social mobility is evident in her work and volunteer activities. Listeners of the podcast can learn more about Cheryl Stokes and her work in fostering inclusive leadership and organizational cultures through her company's website, www.c-next.com, and her LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-stokes-0798653/. Her insights provide valuable guidance for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills and build more inclusive, productive, and engaged teams.

In this episode of the People Solve Problems podcast, Jamie Flinchbaugh welcomes Rebecca Snelling, the owner of RS Consulting. The conversation focuses on the themes of collaboration, problem-solving, leadership, and the importance of a culture that supports these endeavors within the design and construction industry.   Rebecca brings a wealth of experience in coaching individuals, teams, and organizations on leadership and lean transformation, with a particular emphasis on culture advancement. She has a significant presence in the design and construction sector, contributing to various industry events both in the US and internationally. Her work involves helping clients to understand their current and target conditions and devising strategies to achieve their objectives effectively.   During the episode, Jamie and Rebecca explore the intricacies of collaboration in problem-solving. Rebecca underscores the importance of understanding a problem's impacts and the people it affects, advocating for the inclusion of diverse perspectives in the problem-solving process. She shares a compelling anecdote about a painter who, despite being unrelated to a construction project, provided a breakthrough solution during a planning session. This story highlights the value of external perspectives and the potential of "half-baked" ideas to spark innovation.   Rebecca also discusses the concept of "touching the outside of the problem," emphasizing the need to balance inclusivity with effectiveness. She suggests various strategies for managing large groups and ensuring productive collaboration, such as pre-discussions, breaking into smaller groups, and focusing on perspectives that offer the most value.   The conversation then shifts to the dynamics of problem-solving teams, with Rebecca advocating for a critical and thoughtful approach to team composition and problem scope. She warns against the inefficiency of involving too many participants and the necessity of maintaining a lean team for agility and speed.   Rebecca further addresses the balance between speed, thoroughness, and inclusion in problem-solving. She points out the pendulum swing between extremes and the importance of finding a middle ground that maximizes efficiency without sacrificing quality. She champions the development of problem-solving skills across the organization to empower more individuals and groups to address challenges effectively.   Ideation and brainstorming form another critical part of their discussion. Rebecca stresses the importance of setting clear expectations for brainstorming sessions, encouraging the sharing of half-baked ideas to foster collaboration and innovation. She mentions using tools like Mural for asynchronous collaboration and emphasizes the value of engaging younger or less experienced team members to bring fresh perspectives.   The episode encapsulates the essence of problem-solving in collaborative environments, highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives, the judicious composition of problem-solving teams, and the balance between speed and thoroughness. Rebecca's insights offer valuable lessons for leaders and organizations aiming to foster a culture that champions effective problem-solving and innovation.   For more on Rebecca's work and insights, visit her website at www.rebeccasnelling.com and connect with her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccasnelling/.

In a recent episode of the People Solve Problems podcast, Jamie Flinchbaugh sits down with Sarah Tilkens, Senior Manager of OpEx for GE Healthcare as well as the CEO & Founder of The KPI Lab, to discuss the art and science of problem-solving within organizations. Sarah shares her journey from an early interest in Six Sigma to founding The KPI Lab, focusing on how to tackle complex problems that professionals face in today’s business environment. She emphasizes the importance of a clear understanding of problems, advocating for a methodical approach to problem identification that prioritizes empathy and deep listening. Sarah’s insights into her role as an coach with GE and The KPI Lab reveal her approach: she sees KPIs as not just as metrics but as narratives that guide and motivate teams towards continuous improvement and innovation. Her discussion with Jamie explores how effective problem-solving involves blending analytical rigor with a profound understanding of human behavior and team dynamics. Throughout the episode, Sarah provides practical examples of how asking the right questions, fostering a culture of curiosity, and adopting a learner’s mindset can transform challenges into opportunities for growth. She stresses the significance of leadership in cultivating an environment where teams are empowered to experiment, learn from failures, and innovate. This conversation offers listeners an opportunity to learn about the nuances of operational excellence, the subtleties of managing team dynamics, and the critical role of leadership in fostering a problem-solving culture. For those eager to learn more about Sarah’s work or to connect with her, information is available on The KPI Lab's website (www.thekpilab.com) and her LinkedIn profile    This episode is essential for anyone looking to enhance their problem-solving skills, drive operational efficiency, and inspire a culture of innovation within their organization.

A thought-provoking conversation between Jamie Flinchbaugh and Durward Sobek delves into the challenges of solving open-ended problems in product development. They stress the importance of understanding user needs, generating diverse ideas, and embracing complexity. Empathy and multiple perspectives are key in creating impactful, user-centered solutions.

Joshua Ehrig, Lehigh University Professor, shares insights on problem-solving in entrepreneurship. He stresses the importance of root cause analysis, prioritizing problems, and embracing experimentation. His experience and knowledge shine through, advocating for continuous learning and adaptation in the field.

In this episode of the People Solve Problems podcast, host Jamie Flinchbaugh engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Andrea Jones, the founder of AJC. Andrea shares her extensive knowledge and experiences in project management and change implementation, particularly in mid-market companies. She introduces her unique framework, Executeagility, which stems from both her personal experiences and her professional expertise. The episode begins with Andrea discussing the challenges she faced in her early career, particularly the lack of clear expectations and frameworks in project management. She vividly recounts a pivotal moment in her career where the absence of a structured approach led to significant challenges. This experience was a key driver in her development of the Executeagility framework, designed to provide clarity and structure in project management. Andrea emphasizes the importance of prioritizing work in a manner that's impactful to the business. She outlines her framework's approach to prioritization, which includes listing all opportunities and considering criteria that are impactful to the business today. The process involves scoring these opportunities against impactful criteria and reassessing them regularly. This method not only aids in efficient prioritization but also ensures that the most important tasks are addressed promptly. A significant aspect of Andrea's discussion revolves around the implementation of Agile methodologies in project management. She adapts traditional Agile practices to fit the realities of mid-market companies, where resources are often limited. Her version of Agile includes running sprints with cross-functional teams who are not fully dedicated to a single project. This approach acknowledges the constraints of mid-market companies while still benefiting from the agility and responsiveness of Agile methodologies. Andrea also highlights the importance of structured frameworks in enhancing employee satisfaction and overall business success. She believes that providing clear expectations and structured methodologies not only leads to improved project outcomes but also contributes to a happier, more productive work environment. The conversation also touches on the importance of leadership and stakeholder engagement in successful project management. Andrea underscores the need for leaders to actively participate in the process and set clear expectations. This involvement is crucial for the successful implementation of any project management framework. The episode closes with Andrea offering insights into how leaders can foster a productive and happy work environment through disciplined project management practices. Her perspectives provide valuable takeaways for leaders and professionals in the field of project management. For further insights and to connect with Andrea Jones, listeners can visit her LinkedIn profile and explore AJC's website for more information on their services at AJC's Website.

In this episode of People Solve Problems, host Jamie Flinchbaugh invites a thought-provoking guest, Frank Nestore, Vice President at Mathtech's public sector consulting practice. The episode delves into the intricate world of problem-solving within governmental agencies, a realm where Frank has extensive experience and deep insights. Frank begins by outlining the unique challenges faced by government agencies in problem-solving, which differ significantly from those in the private sector. He emphasizes the need to prioritize problems in complex and often politically charged environments. Drawing on his rich experience, Frank shares strategies for identifying the most impactful problems, taking into account both their immediate effects and long-term implications. He stresses the importance of weighing the urgency of problems against available resources, a balancing act that he's mastered over the years. A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Frank's approaches to tackling long-standing issues in government operations. He details his experiences transitioning agencies from manual, paper-based processes to more efficient, automated systems. This transition, while technically challenging, also involves managing change within large, often resistant organizations. Frank discusses the techniques he's employed to facilitate this change, including stakeholder engagement, transparent communication, and phased implementation strategies. Leadership and decision-making form another core theme of the discussion. Frank candidly shares the challenges he faces as a leader, particularly in making high-stakes decisions that can impact millions. He talks about the delicate balance between delegating tasks and maintaining personal involvement in critical projects. His insights into fostering effective team dynamics and encouraging collaborative problem-solving are particularly enlightening. A highlight of the episode is Frank's introduction of the OODA Loop—a decision-making framework originally developed for military strategies. He elucidates how this framework can be adapted to the context of public sector problem-solving, emphasizing the need for rapid and responsive decision-making in dynamic environments. Frank's ability to apply such frameworks in practical, real-world scenarios is a testament to his expertise. The conversation shifts to Frank's philosophy on coaching and team leadership. He advocates for a leadership style that is adaptable, humble, and centered around building a non-hierarchical team environment. Frank believes in empowering team members, giving them ownership of problems, and fostering an atmosphere where ideas can be freely exchanged. This approach, he argues, not only leads to better solutions but also builds a stronger, more cohesive team. Frank also touches upon the importance of continuous learning and development in his field. He shares his approach to staying abreast of new technologies, methodologies, and trends in public sector management. His commitment to lifelong learning is a key factor in his success and serves as an inspiration for listeners. The episode concludes with Frank offering advice to young professionals aspiring to careers in public sector consulting. He emphasizes the importance of developing a broad skill set, including technical knowledge, communication skills, and an understanding of political dynamics. He encourages persistence, open-mindedness, and a commitment to public service as the cornerstones of a fulfilling career in this field. Overall, this episode of People Solve Problems presents a comprehensive and insightful look into the world of problem-solving in the public sector, guided by Frank Nestore's expert knowledge and experiences. His perspectives on strategic problem-solving, leadership, and adapting decision-making frameworks provide valuable lessons for anyone interested in public administration, management, or consulting. For more insights and updates from Frank Nestore and Mathtech, you can visit Mathtech's website at www.mathtechinc.com. Additionally, you can explore their YouTube channel for informative content at Math Tech's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgZZk9sDsbJT3gRWLArgCrg/videos  Frank's professional achievements and contributions can also be followed through his LinkedIn profile at linkedin.com/in/fnestore.

In the latest episode of People Solve Problems, Jamie Flinchbaugh has an engaging discussion with Steve Spear, the Founder of See to Solve LLC and Senior Lecturer at MIT Sloan School of Management. Steve, renowned for his expertise in operational excellence and leadership, delves into the intricacies of problem-solving and collaboration. The conversation focuses on Steve’s new book, co-authored with Gene Kim, titled Wiring the Winning Organization: Liberating Our Collective Greatness through Slowification, Simplification, and Amplification. Steve shares his unique approach to collaborative problem-solving, emphasizing the value of diverse perspectives to forge robust solutions. Drawing from his experience with the Toyota Production System and as an educator at MIT, he underscores the significance of creating learning organizations. A key aspect of the conversation is Steve's focus on intentional problem-solving. He stresses the importance of identifying and addressing critical moments thoughtfully, a practice crucial for sustainable and effective solutions. Steve also explores the sustainability and scalability of solutions in various contexts. He advocates for adaptable solutions that can evolve with changing scenarios, a principle central to his consulting work and teachings. Further, Steve reflects on the learning aspect of problem-solving. He views each challenge as an opportunity for individual and organizational growth, a perspective that has shaped his contributions to industries like healthcare and energy. For further insights from Steve Spear, visit SeeToSolve.com and connect with him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/stevespear. Additionally, explore a detailed discussion between Gene Kim and Steve Spear on "Wiring the Winning Organization" at https://www.leanblog.org/2023/11/gene-kim-and-steve-spear-discussing-wiring-the-winning-organization/. The High-Velocity Edge: How Market Leaders Leverage Operational Excellence to Beat the Competition https://a.co/d/afNHMr2 Wiring the Winning Organization https://a.co/d/iajnlKn

In this episode of "People Solve Problems," Jamie Flinchbaugh engages in an enlightening conversation with Mel Zehnpfennig, Managing Partner at Dynamic Improvement Group. With a wealth of experience spanning over two decades in lean manufacturing, Mel shares his approach to tackling complex problems in various industries, from automotive to more diverse sectors like pet toys and kitchen cabinets. Central to the discussion is Mel's two-phase approach to problem-solving. He first focuses on comprehensively understanding the problem from the client's perspective. This foundational step ensures that both he and his clients are on the same page. Following this, Mel emphasizes the importance of assembling a diverse, cross-functional team that includes key stakeholders like plant managers and operators. This inclusive team composition is crucial for accurately identifying problems and devising effective solutions. Mel also addresses the strategy of managing multiple problems concurrently. He advocates for prioritizing issues based on their impact and the effort required for resolution, underscoring the significance of quick wins in building team confidence and maintaining momentum. The conversation shifts to the evolution of manufacturing over the past years, where Mel points out the increasing importance of data in problem-solving. He highlights how historical data is instrumental in establishing baselines and uncovering root causes, marking a shift from traditional methods. For more information on Mel Zehnpfennig's work and his innovative approaches to problem-solving in manufacturing, you can visit the Dynamic Improvement Group website at www.dynamicimprovementgroup.com. Additionally, to connect with Mel and follow his professional insights, his LinkedIn profile is available at linkedin.com/in/mel-zehnpfennig.

In the People Solve Problems podcast, hosted by Jamie Flinchbaugh, John McCullough, Director of Continuous Improvement at Sharp Services, shares his expertise and experiences in problem-solving within the pharmaceutical industry. John, a global continuous improvement leader, strategic thought partner, and change agent, also extends his lean journey expertise to various other industries, achieving measurable performance and people development objectives. During the episode, John outlines his personal problem-solving process, emphasizing the importance of clearly defining manageable problems, ideally supported by data. This clarity helps in making problems measurable and actionable. He also discusses the significance of understanding the problem's depth to uncover actionable root causes, while avoiding the trap of focusing on irrelevant details. John advocates for a brainstorming environment where all ideas are welcomed, facilitating exploration of potential solutions. He underscores the value of conducting experiments to test these solutions, learning from both successes and failures. This approach underpins his belief in continuous learning as an essential component of problem-solving. Reflecting on an instance of poorly executed problem-solving, John highlights the learning opportunities such instances provide. He shares how missteps can be instructive in refining approaches and strategies, emphasizing the need for balance between speed and thoroughness. Additionally, John touches on his method of assessing individuals' skills and capabilities in problem-solving. He considers different factors like mindset and readiness, which play a vital role in tailoring his coaching and support effectively. This individualized approach is crucial in enhancing problem-solving skills. To learn more about John McCullough and his work, visit Sharp Services' website at www.sharpservices.com and connect with him on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/john-mccullough-b36572a/. These platforms provide deeper insights into his expertise and contributions to the field of continuous improvement.