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Time to Rethink Continuous Improvement?
In this episode, Matt is joined by Michel Doppert, a seasoned continuous improvement leader with a truly global perspective. From early days in international law to becoming one of Europe’s first Six Sigma Black Belts, Michel’s journey is rooted in transformation, data-driven thinking, and an unwavering belief in the power of people.
We explore what continuous improvement really means today, far beyond the textbooks and toolkits. Michel shares why mindset trumps methodology, how leadership is about connection, not titles, and why listening is still the most underrated skill in change. We also tackle how learning needs to evolve to meet the pace and expectations of today’s world, and what role AI and automation play in that shift.
You’ll hear why early exposure to structured problem-solving matters, how storytelling can unlock engagement, and what needs to change in how we teach and lead future generations. Michel’s insight is grounded, practical, and refreshingly honest.
This one’s for anyone serious about driving meaningful improvement that actually sticks.
Key Takeaways:
It’s not about toolkits, textbooks, or certifications. Continuous improvement is an attitude rooted in curiosity, learning, and a willingness to evolve. Tools support it, but people drive it.
Titles don’t inspire change; people do. Effective leaders earn trust and influence by being authentic, listening, and showing genuine interest in others.
Progress starts by asking better questions, not giving better answers. Listening builds understanding, overcomes resistance, and creates the conditions for engagement.
Traditional training, textbooks, long courses, and PowerPoint-heavy sessions fail to engage modern learners. Learning needs to be relevant, interactive, story-led, inclusive, and designed for how people consume information today.
People learn and connect through stories, not slide decks. Stories help convey principles in ways that data or definitions can’t.
AI can accelerate analysis and access to information, but it can’t replace the empathy, judgment, or connection that human leaders bring. Use tech to simplify, but keep people at the centre.
Passing an exam doesn’t equal capability. Real learning happens through doing, experimenting, failing, and reflecting. Mistakes should be welcomed as part of the process.
Improvement is more effective when solutions are developed with, not for, the people doing the work. Engagement, ownership, and shared learning are critical for sustainability.
Introducing structured problem-solving skills at a young age creates confidence, curiosity, and a healthier approach to change. Programmes like Ever-So-Lean Rising Stars™ show how children as young as eight can grasp core improvement principles when delivered in the right way. It proves we can build capability early and help the next generation avoid the firefighting culture that often dominates workplaces.
Don’t lead with metrics or mandates. Start by helping people understand why change matters to them. Only then will they be open to the what and the how.
🔗Michel's Resources:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheldoppert
Website - https://micheldoppert.com/
Find out more about Ever-So-Lean Rising Stars™, Ever-So-Lean, working with us, and our learning programs at www.eversolean.com
Explore the Lean Competency System (LCS) - https://www.leancompetency.org/
Visit the BQF to learn more about the wonderful work they do - https://www.bqf.org.uk/
Enrol in the Online Improvement Kata & Coaching Kata Basics Course. Upskill your coaching skills with the ONLY Kata training created by Jeffrey K. Liker and Mike Rother! - https://toyota-way-academy.teachable.com/?affcode=43912_2uzhk5-x
If you’re enjoying the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, take a moment to rate and review it - it really helps more people find it, and your feedback genuinely makes a difference.
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By Matt SimsIn this episode, Matt is joined by Michel Doppert, a seasoned continuous improvement leader with a truly global perspective. From early days in international law to becoming one of Europe’s first Six Sigma Black Belts, Michel’s journey is rooted in transformation, data-driven thinking, and an unwavering belief in the power of people.
We explore what continuous improvement really means today, far beyond the textbooks and toolkits. Michel shares why mindset trumps methodology, how leadership is about connection, not titles, and why listening is still the most underrated skill in change. We also tackle how learning needs to evolve to meet the pace and expectations of today’s world, and what role AI and automation play in that shift.
You’ll hear why early exposure to structured problem-solving matters, how storytelling can unlock engagement, and what needs to change in how we teach and lead future generations. Michel’s insight is grounded, practical, and refreshingly honest.
This one’s for anyone serious about driving meaningful improvement that actually sticks.
Key Takeaways:
It’s not about toolkits, textbooks, or certifications. Continuous improvement is an attitude rooted in curiosity, learning, and a willingness to evolve. Tools support it, but people drive it.
Titles don’t inspire change; people do. Effective leaders earn trust and influence by being authentic, listening, and showing genuine interest in others.
Progress starts by asking better questions, not giving better answers. Listening builds understanding, overcomes resistance, and creates the conditions for engagement.
Traditional training, textbooks, long courses, and PowerPoint-heavy sessions fail to engage modern learners. Learning needs to be relevant, interactive, story-led, inclusive, and designed for how people consume information today.
People learn and connect through stories, not slide decks. Stories help convey principles in ways that data or definitions can’t.
AI can accelerate analysis and access to information, but it can’t replace the empathy, judgment, or connection that human leaders bring. Use tech to simplify, but keep people at the centre.
Passing an exam doesn’t equal capability. Real learning happens through doing, experimenting, failing, and reflecting. Mistakes should be welcomed as part of the process.
Improvement is more effective when solutions are developed with, not for, the people doing the work. Engagement, ownership, and shared learning are critical for sustainability.
Introducing structured problem-solving skills at a young age creates confidence, curiosity, and a healthier approach to change. Programmes like Ever-So-Lean Rising Stars™ show how children as young as eight can grasp core improvement principles when delivered in the right way. It proves we can build capability early and help the next generation avoid the firefighting culture that often dominates workplaces.
Don’t lead with metrics or mandates. Start by helping people understand why change matters to them. Only then will they be open to the what and the how.
🔗Michel's Resources:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheldoppert
Website - https://micheldoppert.com/
Find out more about Ever-So-Lean Rising Stars™, Ever-So-Lean, working with us, and our learning programs at www.eversolean.com
Explore the Lean Competency System (LCS) - https://www.leancompetency.org/
Visit the BQF to learn more about the wonderful work they do - https://www.bqf.org.uk/
Enrol in the Online Improvement Kata & Coaching Kata Basics Course. Upskill your coaching skills with the ONLY Kata training created by Jeffrey K. Liker and Mike Rother! - https://toyota-way-academy.teachable.com/?affcode=43912_2uzhk5-x
If you’re enjoying the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, take a moment to rate and review it - it really helps more people find it, and your feedback genuinely makes a difference.