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Chain of Learning: Empowering Continuous Improvement Change Leaders

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Apr 3, 2024 • 40min

14 | Becoming an Astute Political Navigator [with Betsy Jordyn]

Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book: How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34What's your reaction when you hear the phrase “corporate politics”? Does it make you cringe and want to run away, or do you get curious about how to leverage them to influence outcomes?In this episode, Betsy Jordyn joins me to discuss the essential skill of how to successfully navigate organizational politics. As a long-time organizational development consultant for companies like Disney, Wyndham, and AAA, Betsy’s expertise on the subject is enlightening. Throughout our conversation, you’ll learn the difference between good politics and toxic environments and what’s at risk if leaders don’t prioritize a focus on astutely navigating those dynamics. Betsy also shares valuable details about some of the more complex organizational transformations she has led, and how she successfully maneuvered within those political landscapes. If you’re looking to gain influence and effectively leverage corporate politics so that you can lead change and  step into your full leadership potential, then you won’t want to miss this episode. YOU'LL LEARN:Steps to help you master the critical skill of being an Astute Political Navigator — one of the eight core Change KATALYST™ competencies to further develop your expertise as an organizational change leader A transformational framework to help executives and change leaders like you articulate your vision, integrate individual leadership voices, and align organizational goals How to effectively leverage political dynamics, avoid the trap of becoming another pair of hands, and increase your influenceThe power in politics — how to balance diverse perspectives within an organization and  differentiate between good politics and a toxic environmentThe essential roles of empathy, respect, deep listening, and function-specific language to effectively lead and manage changeIMPORTANT LINKS:Full episode shownotes: ChainOfLearning.com/14Betsy’s website: www.betsyjordan.comBetsy’s ‘Enough Already’ podcast: https://www.betsyjordyn.com/podcasts/enough-alreadyWork with me: KBJAnderson.comChange KATALYST™  Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS:[00:00] Introduction to the episode [03:43] Navigating good politics as an organizational change leader[06:16] Lessons in navigating both formal and informal political structures [11:26] How to help leaders and consultants articulate goals and bring executives on board [17:48] How to avoid the trap of being a pair of hands: influencing vs. executing [20:34] Differentiating good politics from toxic environments[26:59] The connection between Betsy’s current and past roles in leading organizational change and coaching consultants for growth and impact Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book:How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34
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Mar 20, 2024 • 34min

13 | 3 Ways to Break the Telling Habit® and Create Greater Impact

Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book: How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34Have you ever had a team member look at you with frustration when you share your great ideas and suggestions with them? Or, have you ever felt like—with all the things you need to solve and do—you don’t have time to ask questions? Like you’re stuck putting out fires rather than nurturing, growing, and developing the people you lead?If this resonates, it’s likely you have a “telling habit.” But, the good news is, you can break it—or rather—you can work at creating better habits. Because you can never actually break a habit. You just replace it with stronger ones.In this episode, you’ll learn what the “telling habit” is and what you can do to not only recognize it but how you can make three simple shifts that will dramatically increase your effectiveness.Throughout my life and career, I’ve struggled with a “telling habit”—though at times I didn’t even realize how strong it was or the negative impact it had. Breaking the Telling Habit is THE most powerful shift you can make as a leader, coach, or human being.  If you’re ready to transform into a leader who can navigate the continuums between asking and telling, advocating and inquiring, being an expert and coach, this is one episode you don’t want to miss. YOU’LL LEARN:What the telling habit is, how to identify it in yourself, and where it might be derailing you from your purpose and impact as a leaderSteps to ensure your enthusiasm to contribute ideas and desire to solve problems don’t impede your ultimate objectives to create capability in others and get resultsHow to find—and maintain—the ideal balance between providing solutions and facilitating others’ growthThe role of humble (and patient) inquiry, the power of holding space, and techniques to help you master these essential practices Three simple shifts to Break the Telling Habit® and unlock the true capabilities of your team IMPORTANT LINKS:Download the KATALYST Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystMy book: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comBreak The Telling Habit E-course/Workshop: katieanderson.podia.com/breaking-the-telling-habit-on-demandWork with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonTIMESTAMPS:[3:05] - What is the “telling habit”? [5:50] - The moment that changed everything for Katie [15:05] - Holding up the mirror: understanding the impact of your telling habit[18:20] - Addressing fear, giving space, fostering capability [21:55] - How to navigate the leadership continuums between telling and asking and being an expert and coach[26:30] - 3 simple shifts to Break the Telling Habit®  Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book:How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34
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Mar 6, 2024 • 49min

12 | Beyond Appearances: Building Real Continuous Improvement [with Patrick Adams]

Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book: How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34What is the difference between authentic cultures of continuous improvement versus superficial displays? In this episode, Patrick Adams shares his insights on the heart of organizational culture and transformational leadership and highlights the essential elements of a real culture of continuous improvement -- so that you can ensure that you and your organization get it right.The truth is, there are no quick fixes, “silver bullets,” or prescribed roadmaps to achieve a high-performing organization. Patrick shares how a long-term commitment and leadership behaviors are necessary to sustain cultures that foster growth, innovation, and people engagement.If you want to know how to create a real culture of continuous improvement, one where leaders embody the humility to roll up their sleeves, demonstrate respect for their people and customers, and connect everyone to a long-term vision built on purpose, this episode is for you.ABOUT MY GUEST: Patrick Adams the founder of Lean Solutions and is the best-selling author of "Avoiding the Continuous Appearance Trap". He's a sought-after leadership coach, consultant, and professional speaker. Patrick’s insights, drawn from extensive experience working with companies of diverse industries and sizes, are driven by a philosophy of constant learning and leadership commitment—essential for building organizational excellence.YOU’LL LEARN:The key elements of an authentic continuous improvement culture, including respect for people, stable processes, leadership behaviors, and more.How quick fixes and pre-packaged roadmaps do not achieve real continuous improvement.The warning signs of a "continuous appearance" culture, including KPI instability, silos, and not understanding employee and customer value. About Patrick's experience on my Japan Study Trip and why he believes it's a pivotal experience for any lean practitioner or executive seeking to build a real culture of kaizen and lasting continuous improvement in their organization.How long-term success is built on creating value for customers, fostering a stable environment, and ensuring that improvement initiatives are aligned with the company's overarching vision and goals.Tune in now for insights and strategies to empower you with knowledge of how to lead your company toward a real, lasting culture of continuous improvement.    IMPORTANT LINKS: Follow Patrick Adams on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/patrickadamsiiLean Solutions Summit: findleansolutions.com/summit-2024 (use special discount code: #KatieAnderson)Patrick’s Book: Avoiding the Continuous Appearance TrapEpisode Website: ChainOfLearning.com/12Download the KATALYST Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystJoin Katie's next Japan Study Trip: KBJanderson.com/japantripWork with Katie: KBJAnderson.comFollow Katie on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonKatie's book: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comAre you enjoying the Chain of Learning podcast? Be sure to subscribe or follow –  and to share this podcast with your friends and colleagues so we can all strengthen our Chain of Learning® – together. TIMESTAMPS:[04:18] What an authentic culture of improvement looks like[13:06] How people development, critical thinking skills, and leadership behaviors lead to company-specific results[14:52] Why committing to a long-term vision, not quick fixes, is key to building a continuous improvement culture[20:20] What makes a culture of continuous appearance[25:21] Practical tips for internal CI and lean leaders to create positive change immediately[31:18] Patrick’s highlights from Katie’s May 2023 Japan Study Trip  Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book:How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34
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Feb 21, 2024 • 53min

11 | Fulfill Your Transformational Leadership Potential [with Karen Martin]

Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book: How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34What’s your purpose as a continuous improvement leader? And how can you fulfill your potential as a transformational change leader?Tune in to my conversation with master operational excellence change leader Karen Martin to find out! Becoming a transformational change leader means balancing your technical skills to deliver results while cultivating the influence, coaching, and facilitation skills to lead change and develop people to create a high-performing organizational culture.Whether you are an operational excellence professional or a leader that has a passion for continuous improvement, this episode will inspire you to excel in both the formal role that you were hired to do and the greater potential of the role that you want to lead transformational change. From learning how to more effectively navigate the complexities of business language to influence leaders, cultivating effective coaching and facilitation skills, and becoming aware of the limiting pitfalls that can hinder your impact – this episode is a must listen. About My Guest:Karen Martin is the President and Founder of TKMG Academy and Founder of TKMG, Inc., and is an award-winning author of several books, including "Clarity First" and "The Outstanding Organization". Her clients include Fortune 500 companies and government agencies from local to federal levels. With a master’s degree in education, Karen is a mentor at heart and committed to fostering growth and nurturing potential in others to achieve lasting results and lead organizational change.You’ll Learn:The difference between the purpose of your role as a continuous improvement leader and your potential to become a transformational change leaderHow to effectively transfer knowledge and develop problem-solving capabilities, tailoring approaches between reflective and directive coachingThe importance of speaking the language of the business to influence decisions that align with your organization’s goals and growth needsThe risk of short-term improvement kaizen or rapid process improvement events without follow-up to sustain improvement or building the team's skill sets The importance of having a coach or mentor to support your growthTune in now for actionable strategies and insights to equip you to step into your greater transformational leadership potential and position you to lead lasting impact in your organization.Important Links:TKMG Academy Website: tkmgacademy.comFollow Karen Martin on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/karenmartinopexEpisode website: ChainOfLearning.com/11Download the KATALYST Self-Assessment: KBJAnderson.com/katalystListen to Episode 9: The 8 Essential Skills to Become a Transformational Change KATALYST: ChainOfLearning.com/9Katie's book: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with Katie: KBJAnderson.comFollow Katie on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kbjandersonAre you enjoying the Chain of Learning podcast? Be sure to subscribe or follow –  and to share this podcast with your friends and colleagues so we can all strengthen our Chain of Learning® – together. Timestamps:03:09 The purpose and potential of a transformational change leader11:53 Practical advice for accelerated discoveries about how to get results and develop people16:41 Learning to be an effective change leader through facilitating, overcoming fear, navigating organizational dynamics27:16 Gaps in continuous improvement cultures and how to overcome them35:56 Internal-capability challenges and opportunities for change leaders, managers, and executives37:03 Karen’s example about valuing the people-development side of business Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book:How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34
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Feb 7, 2024 • 50min

10 | Unleash Your Leadership Superpower [with Shawn Carner]

Shawn Carner unlocks leadership potential and accelerates engagement across organizations. Learn about the power of intention setting, coaching questions, and intentional leadership behaviors. Discover how to foster a culture of development and growth through learning and continuous improvement.
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Jan 24, 2024 • 41min

9 | 8 Essential Skills to Become a Transformational Change KATALYST

Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book: How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34Move from Technical Expert to Influential LeaderDo you want to move beyond being a tools or process improvement project “doer” or technical expert to a transformational change leader?  Have you wanted to step into greater influence and impact in your organization?Or perhaps you're a leader seeking to create broader organizational change but don't quite know how?Leading transformational change to create a high-performing culture requires you to pair your technical expertise with social and relational skills that will enable you to catalyze change and accelerate the rate of learning in your organization.In this episode we’ll explore the importance of your role as a transformational change agent and how you can step into greater impact by growing your leadership skills with my framework – the KATALYST™ model.“Katalyst” is a mix of the words “catalyst” and "kata" – it is someone who accelerates the rate of learning for organizational progress.Hit play to discover how you can step into your impact as a transformational leader and bridge the gap between where you are today and becoming an influential change Katalyst ™ in your organization. You'll Learn:The 8 leadership competencies in the KATALYST™ model  The difference between Catalyst versus “Katalyst”™The definition of “kata” as routines that support problem-solving and coaching for improvementHow to move from technical expert to influential leaderHow to get your senior team to buy into the vision for a people-centered learning organization and invest the time and effort to get thereIf you want to increase your influence and realize your vision of a thriving people-centered learning organization, you won’t want to miss this episode. Tune in now!Looking for more inspiration and actionable tips to step into your leadership impact? Be sure to subscribe and follow Chain of Learning so you never miss an episode.Important Links:Episode webpage with additional resources: ChainOfLearning.com/9Download the Change KATALYST™ Self-Assessment: https://kbjanderson.com/katalyst/ My book: LearningToLeadLeadingToLearn.comWork with me: KBJAnderson.comFollow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson/ Timestamps:2:05: The Change KATALYST™ model3:12: Transition from a Practitioner to a Change Leader6:28: The Inspiration of “kata”7:11: The impact of implementing KATALYST™ model9:38:  K – Knowledgeable Business Expert 13:39: A – Analytical Systems Thinker18:19: T – Tactical Strategic Aligner22:11: A – Astute Political Navigator25:03: L – Lifelong Learning Enthusiast 27:42: Y – Yes-Minded Persuader 31:29: S – Skillful Facilitator 34:48: T – Transformational Coaching Leader Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book:How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34
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Jan 10, 2024 • 54min

8 | Wiring the Winning Organization [with Gene Kim and Steven Spear]

Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book: How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34Have you ever wondered why some organizations consistently outperform others? And why, even when using the same tools and methodologies, some companies are able to leverage them to achieve success whereas at others they just become the flavor of the month?If you are curious about the answers, you won't want to miss this episode with Steve Spear and Gene Kim where we unpack what makes companies “great” and explore key concepts in their new book, “Wiring the Winning Organization: Liberating our Collective Greatness through Slowification, Simplification, and Amplification”. Together, we peel back the layers of organizational innovation and problem-solving to focus on the critical – and often missing elements – for high performance.Tune in to discover the role that management systems and leadership play in shaping an organization's success, and the mechanisms that enable innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration across large, complex organizations.It makes no difference what you call it  – lean, agile, DevOps –  wiring your organization to win always comes back to the principles of good leadership.If you are a leader, an operational excellence practitioner, or simply someone aspiring to create and thrive in a winning organization, this is an episode you can't afford to miss.In this episode you’ll learn:What defines a winning organization and separates great organizations from “not great” onesHow to navigate from the “danger zone” to the “winning zone” The three layers of organizational problem-solving and continuous improvement The critical role of leadership and management systems in creating conditions for successThe sociotechnical mechanisms of winning organizations: slowification, simplification, and amplificationThree questions leaders should ask daily to enable a profound organizational transformationLeadership behavior shifts to be more effective in wiring your organization – and team –  to winHit play now to discover how you can build a high-performing organization and wire your organization for greatness.About my guests:Steve Spear is a senior lecturer at the MIT Sloan School of Management and is a renowned thought leader in the field of organizational excellence and high-performance organizations. Gene Kim is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author and former CTO of TripWire, specializing in improving software development and IT management for high-performing technology organizations.Links:Episode webpage and book giveaway registration: https://chainoflearning.com/8Book “Wiring the Winning Organization”: https://itrevolution.com/product/wiring-the-winning-organization/Connect with Steve on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevespear/ Connect with Gene on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realgenekim/ My Book: Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn: https://kbjanderson.com/learning-to-lead/ Connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson/Work with me: https://kbjanderson.com/Timestamps 01:30 Introduction of Steve Spear and Gene Kim03:41 Definition of a winning organization04:02 Understanding what high performance is06:10 Disparities in organizational performance and the role of management systems07:53 Common mechanisms of performance 09:55 The three layers10:06 Social circuitry11:13 Capability and competency13:50  The socio part of the sociotechnical system14:05 Mr. Yoshino's paint mistake story15:49 Paul O'Neill's three critical questions for leaders18:50 The role of leaders in creating conditions that enable individuals to succeed19:07 How to move from the danger zone to the winning zone19:17 Slowification, simplification, and amplification21:29  Culture of learning and improvement through social circuitry25:30 How slowfication helps winning organizations30:24 The performance paradox and learning zones31:17 The importance of simulating disasters 33:03 Misuse of terminology and principles i.e., “lean”35:12 Interrelationship between management practices37:18 Lessons learned from the writing and collaboration process43:09 Steve and Gene’s behaviors to be more effective in wiring winning organizations47:17 Breaking the telling habit Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book:How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34
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Dec 27, 2023 • 33min

7 | Intentions vs. Goals: Start with Purpose for Greater Impact

Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book: How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34What if HOW you go about setting your goals can change the impact you have – even more than the goals themselves? It’s that time of year for setting goals, to reflect on what you achieved – or didn’t achieve – in the past year and make resolutions and big goals for the coming year. Yet most of us have it backwards when we go about setting goals. We start with our minds before we connect with our hearts.In this episode of Chain of Learning, you’ll discover what’s missing for most people in our goal-setting culture. If you really want to create a meaningful impact and be more likely to achieve your goals, you need to start first with your intentions.Tune into this episode to learn how to make a shift in your thinking – and your goal-setting process – that will leave you more connected with purpose, fulfilled, and equipped to achieve your goals. You’ll understand how to connect who you want to be so that you are set up for what you want to achieve.In this episode you’ll learn:The difference between goals and intentions The importance of aligning actions in the direction of purpose About the Japanese concept of "kokorozashi" -- a leader's purpose, inner will, and enthusiasmHow a focus only on achieving goals is problematicWhy reflection is the beginning of learning and improvementA reflection exercise that will set you up for greater impactWhy you must align with your intentions before setting goalsHit play now – and be sure to grab a pen and paper to capture your reflections – to make plans on how you will take aligned action that will propel you towards the impact that you want in the coming year!Important Links:Full show notes: http://chainoflearning.com/7 Episode 4 Leading for Impact: The Power of Being Over Doing: http://chainoflearning.com/4 Episode 5 Achieve More by Performing Less with Eduardo Briceño: http://chainoflearning.com/5 Reflections on Intentions And Goals blog post: https://kbjanderson.com/reflections-on-intentions-and-goals/Timestamps00:31: Intention for this episode 02:55: Typical New Year goal setting03:27: Concept of intentions versus goals04:27: Importance of intention in leadership06:48: The difference and connection between goals and intentions08:24: Discovery of Intention = Heart + Direction ®09:52: Japanese concept of 'kokorozashi'12:00: The impact of focusing on goals only14:21: The power of intention in navigating setbacks15:09: The importance of connecting with your purpose17:05: Reflection process for   determining intentions and  goals19:27: Reflection exercise with questions 21:11: Steps for aligning actions with purpose23:35: Identifying and aligning actions for the next year26:06: Dealing with challenges, staying focused and moving forward27:09: Balancing professional and personal goals28:04: Legacy and the concept of intention31:04: Importance of focusing on intentions before goals31:38: Reflection on leadership with intention for the coming year and conclusion Enter to win a copy of Michael Bungay Stanier book:How to Work with (Almost) Anyonehttps://chainoflearning.com/34
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Dec 13, 2023 • 26min

6 | Inside the Lean Mindset: Behind-the-Scenes Leadership Insights

Join the exciting behind-the-scenes conversations with transformational change leaders from GE's The Lean Mindset event. Discover insights on embracing failure, teamwork, leadership engagement, and cultivating continuous improvement. Learn about the significance of daily practice, effective problem-solving, and aligning action plans with resources for operational enhancement.
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Nov 29, 2023 • 34min

5 | Achieve More by Performing Less [with Eduardo Briceño]

Eduardo Briceño, growth mindset and learning organization expert, discusses the 'Performance Paradox' and how a constant focus on performing actually leads to lower performance. He shares tips on balancing the 'Performance Zone' and the 'Learning Zone', the impact of seeking feedback, and 5 tips to embed growth and learning micro-habits. Additionally, he explores building a high-performing learning culture in organizations.

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