Are you truly ready for change? This question sits at the heart of organizational success. Change readiness separates thriving companies from those merely struggling to keep up.

The statistics tell a compelling story: 73% of organizations anticipate more change initiatives in the coming years, yet an alarming number will fail. Why? Because they're approaching change all wrong. Organizations with change readiness embedded in their culture are 3.5% more likely to outperform competitors, but most companies never properly assess their change capabilities beyond checking boxes. The secret isn't in the change itself—it's in the preparation.

When leaders engage employees early and foster psychological safety, adoption rates soar. Yet only 40% of organizations actively involve their people in transformation efforts. As the Shingo model teaches, respecting every individual means building change with people, not imposing it upon them. Additionally, ACMP research shows that 80% of change projects focus on isolated functions, creating disconnected implementation efforts that ultimately fail. Successful change isn't about flipping one switch—it's understanding how every part of your organization connects.

To make change stick, start with conversations instead of announcements. Involve teams early by asking for input and listening to concerns. Connect changes to personal purpose by helping each team member see what's in it for them. Finally, celebrate progress along the way—not just at the finish line. Progress celebrated becomes progress repeated. Remember that change isn't an event but a cultural mindset. Your people aren't obstacles; they're your greatest enablers. Ready to transform how your organization approaches change? Let's continue the discussion, and share this episode with fellow leaders who need this message.

Send us a text

Why do perfect solutions fail to stick in organizations? The answer lies not in the quality of our problem-solving, but in our ability to create sustainable systems that support long-term success.

In this deep dive into organizational excellence, I unpack the critical difference between systems that look good in documentation and those that actually drive results in the real world. Drawing from the powerful framework of Shingo Systems Design, I explore how tradition often trumps tools when it comes to organizational change, and why a thoughtful approach to system design can bridge this gap.

You'll discover the three foundational elements of effective systems according to Dr. Edwards Deming: components, interdependence, and a clear aim. I break down the distinction between informal systems (the organizational equivalent of a random pile of rocks) and formal systems (those rocks purposefully arranged into a bridge)—and how this difference dramatically impacts your results.

Perhaps most importantly, we explore Peter Senge's profound insight that "structure influences behavior." When placed in identical systems, different people tend to produce remarkably similar results. This reality gives us a powerful lever for transformation: by designing systems with intention, we can generate consistent behaviors aligned with our strategic goals.

Whether you're struggling with sustainability in your improvement efforts or looking to take your organization to the next level of excellence, this episode provides practical guidance for creating systems that work—not just on paper, but in practice. Remember that simplicity is key; as I share in this episode, effective system thinking isn't about fighting complexity with complexity, but rather creating clear, aligned structures that everyone can understand and execute.

Ready to transform your organizational systems from informal collections to purposeful structures? Listen now, and take the first step toward sustainable excellence.

Send us a text

Nancy Nouaimeh steps into the guest seat for this powerful Women's Day special, offering a rare glimpse into her journey as a global entrepreneur running companies across Dubai and Dublin.

From her unexpected beginnings sequencing fungal DNA in Belgium to becoming the first Shingo Institute affiliate in the Middle East, Nancy reveals how her career evolution taught her that true excellence isn't a destination—it's a daily practice embedded in organizational culture. "It's something you do on a daily basis," she explains, sharing how leaders must shift from viewing excellence as merely outcome-focused to understanding it as behavior-driven and principle-centered.

The conversation takes a poignant turn when Nancy recounts her young daughter questioning why all her work photos showed more men than women—a moment that strengthened her resolve to change the "boys' club" narrative in consulting. She advocates for formal sponsorship programs that elevate women beyond mentorship to true advancement opportunities. For professionals of all genders, Nancy's advice rings particularly clear: strategic positioning matters as much as skill. "It's not enough to be great at what you do. You need to be intentional about how you position yourself," she explains, emphasizing self-awareness as a career compass.

Her parting wisdom captures the episode's essence: "Courage, authenticity, and purpose." For women navigating leadership journeys, Nancy's message resonates beyond Women's Day—own your journey, support one another, and never apologize for taking up space. Your voice, vision and leadership matter.

Send us a text

Dive into the transformative world of artificial intelligence (AI) through an engaging and insightful discussion with Dr. Sid Ahmed Benraouane. As we immerse ourselves in this episode, you'll discover the true potential of AI—not merely as a tool of automation but as a catalyst for enhancing human capabilities within organizations. From improved decision-making to fostering creativity, AI is revolutionizing the way we approach work and leadership.

 Dr. Sid Ahmed Benraouane is a globally recognized expert in digital transformation, innovation management, and technology policy. With over two decades of experience, he has played a pivotal role in shaping international standards for innovation and AI. He leads the United States ISO Working Group on the Innovation Management System Standard and serves on the ISO/SC 42 Joint Committee, focusing on AI trustworthiness. Dr. Benraouane advises government leaders across the MENA region on innovation strategies and digital transformation and is a sought-after speaker at prestigious global forums such as the World Government Summit. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota, is a Certified Chief Innovation Officer, and serves as a Board Member of the Global Innovation Management Institute.

He shares invaluable insights on the establishment of AI Centers of Excellence, designed to drive innovation while ensuring compliance with new governance standards. With a focus on responsible AI adoption, we discuss the critical need for organizations to build a framework that prioritizes ethical practices. The importance of training and capacity building for employees who engage with AI technologies is emphasized, as organizations strive to create a workforce that leverages AI effectively.

Furthermore, we explore the balancing act leaders face in maintaining operational excellence while embracing the rapid changes brought about by AI. Learn about the concept of ambidextrousness and how it can help organizations sustain progress in both innovation and traditional excellence.

Don’t miss your chance to gain knowledge from this fascinating episode and engage with the future of work. Subscribe, share, and leave a review to join us on this enlightening journey!

Send us a text

Unlock the transformative power of emotional intelligence with our special guest, Olive Murphy, a neuroscience-accredited coach with over 25 years of experience in coaching high-level professionals. Discover how emotional intelligence goes beyond being a soft skill to become a critical component of personal effectiveness, team cohesion, and organizational success. Olive shares her philosophy, inspired by Tim Galway's equation, emphasizing that true performance emerges when we address the interferences that hold back our potential.

Join us as Olive reveals the secrets to creating a culture of emotional intelligence within teams. Explore how psychological safety, team identity, and team efficacy are the pillars for fostering collaboration and trust. Drawing on Amy Edmondson's work, Olive discusses how open communication without fear of judgment can transform team dynamics. We also dive into practical ways organizations can measure and embed emotional intelligence into their core values and leadership frameworks.

Tune in to learn actionable strategies to enhance emotional intelligence at every leadership level. Olive shares practical habits like journaling and self-care routines, underscoring the importance of resilience and maintaining a positive mindset. Understand how leaders can embody vulnerability and authenticity to build trust and excellence, while also creating a culture that celebrates team efforts and encourages innovation. The insights from this episode will equip you to cultivate high-performing, emotionally intelligent teams and organizations.

Send us a text

This episode of the Excellence Foresight Podcast invites you to embrace the art of intentionally crafting meaningful moments, focusing on elevation, insight, connection, and pride in 2025. Drawing from personal experiences and the transformative insights of Chip and Dan Heath's "The Power of Moments," we explore how small acts of thoughtfulness can create deep trust and understanding in both our personal and professional lives. Tune in as we dive into the heartening story of Dietz, a designer at GE Healthcare, whose empathetic approach reimagined the intimidating MRI experience for children, turning it into a delightful adventure, and how empathy is key in leadership and innovation.

Let's step into this new year by reflecting on the times empathy profoundly shaped our paths in 2024. Consider those instances when simple acts of vulnerability and understanding created synergies and sparked genuine connections. By adopting a mindset that values the power of moments, we can design human-centered solutions and make every interaction an opportunity for growth, inspiration and excellence. Listen in for insights and inspiration to help you create meaningful, memorable moments that elevate the lives of those around you.

Send us a text

Discover the transformative power of cultural sensitivity in leadership as we sit down with Aziz Musa, a trailblazer in digital marketing. Aziz opens up about his unique journey from being the youngest CEO of a public company in the UK to setting up a social enterprise in Sudan. He shares invaluable lessons on aligning business practices with personal values to drive impactful change. Listen as Aziz reveals how understanding and adapting to cultural expectations have shaped his leadership style across diverse regions like the UK, Saudi Arabia, and Sudan, emphasizing the significance of cultural sensitivity, active listening, and asking questions to effectively lead multicultural teams.

Our conversation also delves into the essence of brutal honesty as a catalyst for fostering a trustworthy workplace culture. At Cush Digital, we champion the belief that being completely truthful, rather than unkind, is crucial for productive leadership. We reflect on the challenges of unlearning old habits where mistakes were hidden, highlighting the courage needed to engage in difficult conversations. Aziz shares real-life examples that encourage young professionals to embrace honesty for career growth, along with insights on managing cross-cultural environments with respect and understanding, using Sudan as a case study.

Finally, we explore the nuances of leadership in diverse environments, with a focus on curiosity and inclusion. Discover strategies for promoting from within to maintain a consistent organizational culture and the importance of intellectual diversity. Through personal anecdotes, we underscore the complexity of communication and cultural synergy in global leadership, spotlighting the UAE's unique demographic makeup. From decoding the subtext in language to fostering harmony in multicultural settings, our discussion offers a comprehensive look at how cultural awareness can enhance leadership effectiveness, even in crisis situations.

Send us a text

Ever wondered how the right question can ignite a spark of creativity or resolve a lingering conflict? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Sean Grace, an acclaimed communication consultant and author of "The Art of the Question." In this episode, you'll discover the transformative role of questioning in leadership, communication, and self-discovery. Sean draws from his extensive experience and philosophical teachings to demonstrate how strategic inquiry can enhance problem-solving and creativity. He reveals insightful questions that leaders can employ to dismantle barriers and inspire their teams, emphasizing the often-overlooked power of gratitude in effective leadership.

Creating a culture of inquiry within organizations isn't just beneficial; it's essential. We'll explore innovative techniques like "Q-storms," a method for generating questions that fosters creativity and collaboration. Sean underscores the importance of posing empathetic and constructive questions that empower teams rather than placing them on the defensive. With a focus on mastering the craft of questioning, we unpack strategies for leaders to harness the full potential of their teams through context-driven and solution-focused inquiries. Tune in to discover how the art of the question can serve as a catalyst for transparency, innovation, and unparalleled organizational growth.

Send us a text

Discover the Power of Visual Workplace Management with Industry Leader Gwendolyn Galsworth

Imagine a workplace where visual devices act as a universal language, driving operational excellence while enhancing communication and engagement across every level of the organization. Gwendolyn Galsworth expertise brings into focus the critical cultural transformation required for visuality to become a true language of success. She emphasizes that these tools are most effective when developed by the very people who use them—whether on the factory floor or in the boardroom.

Gwendolyn Galsworth, PhD, is considered by many the world’s leading expert in visual workplace/visual management as a concept, paradigm, and transformational practice. She is very hands-on, working with companies in every part of the globe. Author of seven books on the topic, Dr. Galsworth will release two more in 2025. She is a Shingo Faculty Fellow, Shingo Academy Member, and frequent keynote speaker. 

Step into a work environment shaped by visual harmony, where the insights of everyone from material handlers to CEOs are represented through innovative visual tools. Discover the delicate art of balancing these varied perspectives to cultivate a cohesive, engaging atmosphere. Together, we’ll explore the need for evolving industry regulations that foster continuous improvement, as well as how a visually managed workplace can create unity and identity while sparking creativity and vitality.

Reflecting on the lessons of the pandemic, Gwendolyn reveals how visuality can be a powerful language, not just in the workplace, but in everyday life. Join us in envisioning a future where technology and human experience seamlessly merge, creating workplaces that are efficient, creative, and joyful.

Send us a text

In a rapidly changing world, how can leaders transform their teams from functional to extraordinarily dynamic? In this episode of Leadership Coaching for Excellence, I'm Nancy Nouaimeh, sharing insights from my 24-year journey as a Leadership Technical Coach. Discover how modern managers can create learning, innovation, and adaptability by shifting from command-and-control to a coaching-focused leadership style.

We’ll explore practical coaching techniques, such as the GROW model (Goal, Reality, Options, Will), and situational coaching, demonstrating their impact with real-life examples like Alex's project management challenges. Learn how to turn the tide on team disengagement and foster a thriving coaching culture.

Join us as we unlock the secrets to building a supportive team environment that emphasizes psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and continuous feedback. Inspired by leaders like Satya Nadella at Microsoft, we'll discuss actionable steps to promote diversity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging within your organization. Tune in to become the coach your team truly needs.

Send us a text