Join Todd Conklin on an insightful journey as he delves into the complexities of today's ever-changing world. In this episode, Todd challenges the often-celebrated notion of "Move Fast and Break Things," urging listeners to reassess their approach to change and uncertainty. He highlights the need for organizations to focus on delivering excellence amidst chaos, emphasizing the importance of foundational principles that guide human performance. With a touch of humor and candor, he shares his observations on the dynamics of modern workforces and the evolving motivations driving organizations forward. Explore the impact of "encrapification" on systems and discover the tools necessary to maintain confidence and resilience in uncertain times. This episode invites reflection on how leaders respond to challenges, the significance of learning, and the value of preserving cultural and contextual factors to drive positive outcomes. Whether you're navigating unpredictable weather or organizational changes, the conversation offers a roadmap to stay grounded by consistently delivering excellence.

David Woods, a professor and pioneer in resilience engineering at The Ohio State University, discusses the nuances of safety and adaptability in complex systems. He highlights the importance of balancing comfort with safety in engineering decisions, using personal anecdotes from a nuclear control room. Woods also warns against the dangers of compromising on safety, referencing the Boeing 737 MAX incidents. The conversation emphasizes building resilient systems, understanding interdependencies, and fostering innovation to tackle today's challenges.

In this enlightening episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Podcast, host Todd Conklin engages in a compelling conversation with Vance Walker, an expert in integrating Maori cultural practices with modern health and safety systems. As an indigenous professional deeply involved with Maori communities in New Zealand, Vance explores how culturally resonant safety practices can enhance risk perception and communication, particularly for vulnerable workers. Discover the intriguing concept of 'kia tūpato', an attitude emphasizing caution over the conventional notion of safety, and how this aligns with risk management and competency in various cultural contexts. Through fascinating anecdotes and historical perspectives, Vance sheds light on how traditional Maori approaches to caution and risk have been adapted to contemporary challenges, such as those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Join Todd and Vance as they discuss the importance of cultural awareness in health and safety, the powerful role of storytelling, and the need for evidence-based practices that truly resonate with indigenous values. This episode is a call to action for businesses and safety professionals to embrace diversity of thought and enhance workplace safety through cultural inclusivity.

This is Part Two of a two-part discussion.  In this engaging episode of the Pre-Accident Podcast, host Todd Conklin continues the conversation with Doug Parker and Jim Frederick in part two of their insightful discussion. They explore the evolving role of OSHA and how it navigates enforcement and assurance to improve workplace safety. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, the episode highlights the proactive measures taken to enhance health and safety management systems. Doug and Jim share their perspectives on shifting from traditional compliance to best practices, emphasizing the importance of worker participation and leadership within organizations. They address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, providing valuable insights into the future direction of OSHA. This episode is a great listen for anyone interested in understanding how OSHA is fostering an environment of innovation while ensuring safety and how it's impacting both the regulatory landscape and workplace practices. Be sure to tune in to learn about these critical advancements and the vision for a safer workplace for all.

In this special episode of the Pre-Accident Investigation Safety Podcast, hosted by Todd Conklin, we take a moment to honor the legacy of James Reason, a prominent figure in the field of safety and human error study, who passed away on February 5th, 2025. James Reason revolutionized the way we understand human errors, particularly in complex systems, with groundbreaking concepts such as the Swiss cheese model and the theory of a just culture. Listen as we delve into the life and contributions of James Reason, from his early conversations that expanded our understanding of organizational accidents to his influence in various sectors, including healthcare and aviation. Featuring a special tribute from David Woods, this episode reflects on Reason's enduring impact and challenges us to continue advancing in the world of safety and reliability. Join us in remembering a man whose work has profoundly shaped the foundation of modern safety practices. In a unique tribute, we invite you to enjoy a sandwich with Swiss cheese, a nod to Reason's famous model, and reflect on his contributions to the field. Thank you, James Reason, for your remarkable influence on safety and human error research.

Doug Parker, former OSHA administrator, and Jim Frederick, an OSHA leadership team member, share their insights on occupational safety and health. They reflect on their achievements and challenges at OSHA, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The duo discusses the importance of proactive safety measures, building trust within the organization, and adapting leadership strategies in crisis. They emphasize collaborative governance as a key to improving workplace safety, highlighting a shift from compliance to a more capacity-focused approach in the safety landscape.

Marc Yeston, a seasoned workplace safety expert with global experience, discusses the fine line between manipulation and thoughtful design in safety protocols. Alongside host Todd Conklin, they explore how environmental choices shape worker behavior, questioning whether these influences are ethical. The duo shares intriguing examples from marketing to highlight the implications of design in safety. They also discuss the moral dilemmas faced in advertising and safety communication, offering insights for improving organizational practices.

Corrie Pitzer, a leading voice in safety and organizer of the 'Safety on the Edge' conferences, joins Todd Conklin for a thought-provoking conversation. They reflect on the importance of diverse perspectives in safety, sparked by a serendipitous text exchange at a concert. The duo discusses the evolution of safety practices, upcoming plans for a conference in Berkeley, and the integration of mental well-being and innovation in safety dialogues. Listeners will gain insight into how past lessons are shaping future safety strategies.

Dive into the intriguing interplay between artificial intelligence and safety systems. Discover how AI can boost efficiency yet also introduce unforeseen complexities and failures. The discussion highlights the essential role of human intuition in navigating these challenges, ensuring safety in critical environments. Prepare for a thought-provoking exploration of how smart systems can lead to not-so-smart outcomes!

Reflecting on the start of a new year, the host shares insights from a recent vacation and highlights shifting priorities as time progresses. A memorable Voltaire quote sets the stage for a discussion on the paradox of perfection, especially in organizational safety. The conversation challenges the common goal of 'target zero' and emphasizes the value of incremental improvements. Listeners are encouraged to appreciate daily successes and navigate their journey toward meaningful progress in an imperfect world.