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.

This episode is all about real transformation, the kind that improves systems, empowers people, and makes a lasting difference. I’m joined by Iolanda Pereira, a proven CI leader with a track record of delivering serious impact across healthcare, logistics, and corporate sectors. From leading award-winning stroke pathway redesigns in the NHS to driving $2 billion in financial recovery in the global shipping industry, Iolanda brings a people-first, no-nonsense approach to improvement. We talk about what it really takes to build a sustainable culture of continuous improvement, why trust and communication matter more than any tool, and how to lead change that actually sticks, wherever you work. 🔗Iolanda’s Resources: LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/iolanda-leansolutions1 Website - https://iolandasolutions.com/ Find out more about 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.

In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of purpose, authenticity, and alignment with Margarita Giles-Martinez, a globally recognised coach who’s helped hundreds of women reconnect with their true selves. Margarita shares how a life-altering moment in 2019 led her to strip back the layers of expectation and rediscover her purpose, one rooted in inner peace and energetic truth. We explore how chasing conventional success can lead to burnout and why fulfillment comes from aligning your energy with who you truly are, not who you think you should be. Margarita explains the importance of listening to that inner whisper that says, “There’s more,” and how saying “hell yeah” to what feels right can be a radical act of self-love. Together, we unpack the difference between ego-driven arrogance and grounded confidence, the value of reflecting on painful experiences, and the liberation that comes from releasing the pressure to please. This episode is a reminder that who you were doesn’t define who you are now, and that finding your tribe and owning your energy can shift your entire life. 🔗Margarita’s Resources: LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/margarita-giles-martinez-79624581 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mgmpurposecoaching/ Find out more about Ever-So-Lean, working with us, and our learning programs at www.eversolean.com 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 Please don’t forget to show your support and help the Ever-So-Lean Podcast thrive by taking a moment to rate and review it, your feedback matters!

In this eye-opening episode of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, we go beyond traditional waste elimination and tackle one of the most overlooked yet critical inefficiencies in organisations—underutilised talent. Joining me all the way from Queensland, Australia, is the brilliant Adam Bean—a bold thinker, strategic disruptor, and expert in Kaizen culture and Lean transformation. Known for challenging conventional wisdom, Adam shares powerful insights on why so many organisations fail to tap into their employees’ full potential and how leadership behaviours, structures, and micromanagement are blocking creativity, innovation, and performance. Together, we explore: The 8th waste: underutilised talent—why it’s the biggest threat to efficiency and engagement. How leaders can empower employees to take ownership and drive continuous improvement. The power of marginal gains—how small, consistent improvements lead to massive success. Why true leadership is about coaching, not just managing, and how to create an environment where people thrive. Expect a bold, thought-provoking discussion that will challenge how you see waste—not just on the shopfloor, but in your people. Don’t miss this game-changing conversation!

In this episode of the Ever-So-Lean podcast, we welcome Nigel Richardson, an accomplished adaptability coach, to explore the vital theme of adaptability in leadership and organisational change. Drawing on Nigel’s extensive experience across various industries, we delve into his journey towards recognising the importance of adaptability and how it shapes effective leadership. The discussion begins with an exploration of the psychological aspects of change management, highlighting the crucial role of emotional intelligence. Nigel sheds light on innovative facilitation techniques, such as Lego Serious Play, which enhance engagement and creativity during the change process. He also shares a pivotal ‘oh shit’ moment from his own career—a transformative experience that reshaped his approach to leadership and managing change. Nigel offers a nuanced definition of adaptability, underscoring its growing relevance in today’s complex and ever-changing environment. He elaborates on the critical distinction between adaptation (conscious responses to change) and adaption (long-term survival in the market), providing clarity on their roles in personal and organisational resilience. The conversation also addresses the common barriers to change, such as resistance stemming from discomfort, misunderstanding, or personal insecurity. Nigel emphasises the significance of organisational adaptability and introduces the AQ AI framework, which identifies the essential components of adaptability: ability, character, and environment. Together, we examine the importance of fostering a supportive work environment and discuss how hope and personal belief empower individuals to navigate change effectively. exploring the intricacies of human performance, emphasising the need to understand individual motivations and the role of managers in cultivating adaptability within their teams. The episode also touches on the broader implications of adaptability, including sustainable business strategies and the importance of aligning purpose with organisational goals. Personal growth, mindfulness, and resilience emerge as recurring themes, offering valuable insights for leaders and organisations seeking to thrive in an unpredictable world. Join us for an inspiring conversation that delves deep into the intersection of adaptability, leadership, and organisational success.

In this special episode of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, the tables are turned as Matt Sims steps into the guest’s chair, with Burnout Queen Nicola McCrabbe at the helm. Nicola dives deep into Matt’s personal journey and his newly released book, The Emergence of an Unexpected Leader. The book chronicles Matt’s inspiring rise from a ”disruptive” low-grade student who was written off by teachers to a respected leader on the global stage. Through candid reflections on his rollercoaster path to success, Matt shares his experiences overcoming personal anxiety, public breakdowns, and the pressures of leadership. Nicola’s insightful questions invite listeners to walk with Matt through both the victories and the hardships that shaped his approach to continuous improvement, resilience, and people-focused leadership. Matt introduces listeners to his Bridge of Inspirational Leadership framework, a guiding philosophy developed through 25 years of real-world learning and growth. Built on the pillars of Respect, Authenticity, Engagement, and Empowerment, this framework offers a practical roadmap for aspiring leaders seeking high performance and personal fulfilment. Listeners will find inspiration in Matt’s story of transforming adversity into strength and will gain valuable insights on authentic leadership and continuous improvement. Join us for this powerful episode as Matt shares the essential lessons behind his transformational journey—reminding us all that setbacks can be stepping stones to excellence. 🔗 Useful Links Nicola McCrabbe’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolamccrabbe/ Nicola’s Book ’Burnout Be Gone’ - https://amzn.to/3CbjvBz The Emergence of an Unexpected Leader - https://amzn.to/3XZm7JZ Audiobook UK - https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/B0DLLLXZBK/?source_code=AUKFrDlWS02231890H6-BK-ACX0-419072&ref=acx_bty_BK_ACX0_419072_rh_uk Audiobook USA - https://www.audible.com/pd/B0DLLMCW2H/?source_code=AUDFPWS0223189MWT-BK-ACX0-419072&ref=acx_bty_BK_ACX0_419072_rh_us Audiobook Canada - https://www.audible.ca/pd/B0DLLLM2TJ/?source_code=AMNORWS022318003G-BK-ACX0-419072&ref=acx_bty_BK_ACX0_419072_rh_ca Audiobook Australia -  https://www.audible.com.au/pd/B0DLLMLKG1/?source_code=AUDORWS022318009C-BK-ACX0-419072&ref=acx_bty_BK_ACX0_419072_rh_au

In this episode of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, we welcome the legendary Paul Akers, renowned author and founder and president of FastCap, for a deep dive into the world of Lean mastery. Known for his revolutionary ”2 Second Lean” philosophy, Paul has inspired countless businesses and individuals worldwide to embrace continuous improvement. From starting FastCap in his garage to expanding it into a global powerhouse, Paul’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Together, we explore some of Lean’s most common pitfalls and mistakes Paul has come across when implementing Lean, and look a what some of the critical principles look like in reality,  including the power of having a big vision, leading from the Gemba, and the transformative impact of small, daily improvements. We’ll also dig into Paul’s unconventional approach to hiring, the importance of growing people, and how Lean education is changing the lives of students globally. Whether you’re just starting your Lean journey or looking for advanced insights, this episode is packed with valuable lessons, actionable takeaways, and inspiring stories. Tune in to discover what it takes to create a lasting Lean culture—and why simplicity, humility, and gratitude are at the heart of success. Don’t miss this powerful conversation with one of Lean’s true masters, Paul Akers! 🔗 Paul’s Website - https://www.paulakers.net/ Find out more about Ever-So-Lean, working with us, and our learning programs at www.eversolean.com 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

In this enlightening episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jan Otterbach, a distinguished business change leader and Vice President - Head of Process Transformation, renowned for driving strategic change across both commercial and technology sectors. Jan’s commitment to fostering collaborative, cross-functional approaches has made a significant impact on the organisations he has worked with. Jan reflects on his remarkable career, discussing his role in transforming sales and commercial processes at Elavon Europe, mentoring teams to achieve transformative change, and establishing effective team structures and governance models. His approach, grounded in the principle of going to the Gemba, engaging directly with frontline workers and making problems visible, has been instrumental in identifying inefficiencies and fostering real-time problem-solving. In our conversation, we explore Jan’s insights on the importance of focusing on a manageable number of key initiatives, regularly assessing the value of meetings, and prioritising empathy and engagement in leadership. Jan also emphasises the benefits of blending various methodologies, such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Agile, to address an organisation’s specific challenges. Central to Jan’s philosophy is the belief that ”respect for people is paramount.” We delve into best practices for creating sustainable ways of working, uncover the concept of the ”sexy 20%,” and discuss what it means to move towards the ”80%.” has worked with. Jan reflects on his remarkable career, discussing his role in transforming sales and commercial processes at Elavon Europe, mentoring teams to achieve transformative change, and establishing effective team structures and governance models. His approach, grounded in the principle of going to the Gemba, engaging directly with frontline workers and making problems visible, has been instrumental in identifying inefficiencies and fostering real-time problem-solving. In our conversation, we explore Jan’s insights on the importance of focusing on a manageable number of key initiatives, regularly assessing the value of meetings, and prioritising empathy and engagement in leadership. Jan also emphasises the benefits of blending various methodologies, such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Agile, to address an organisation’s specific challenges. Central to Jan’s philosophy is the belief that ”respect for people is paramount.” We delve into best practices for creating sustainable ways of working, uncover the concept of the ”sexy 20%,” and discuss what it means to move towards the ”80%.” This episode is a must-listen for leaders, change agents, and anyone interested in business transformation. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion filled with practical insights and real-world examples from Jan’s extensive experience in driving impactful change. 🔗 Jan’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/janotterbach/ Find out more about the Ever-So-Lean and our consultancy and learning programs at www.eversolean.com 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 Please don’t forget to show your support and help the Ever-So-Lean Podcast thrive by taking a moment to rate and review it, your feedback matters!

In this exciting episode of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, we’re joined by the remarkable Donna O’Toole, founder of August Recognition and bestselling author of WIN!. Discover how celebrating success can transform your business as Donna shares her expertise on leveraging awards to boost morale, enhance credibility, and drive growth. 🔍 What to Expect: Strategic Insights: Learn how to effectively use awards as a tool for business development and employee engagement. Inspiration from the Top: Donna reveals the secrets behind her global success and her book WIN!, offering practical tips for impactful award entries. Industry Wisdom: Discover the importance of continual improvement and how awards can drive reflection and innovation. Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable insights from one of the world’s top customer experience influencers and elevate your approach to celebrating success! Tune in and be inspired to accelerate your journey to excellence. 🚀 🔗 Links to Donna’s resources: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnaotoole/ August Recognition - https://www.augustawards.com/awards-discovery-call/ Awards List - What Awards are Perfect For You? - https://www.augustawards.com/awards-generator-quiz/ WIN! - https://amzn.to/3Al6Kn1 To find out more about the certifications available with Catalyst Consulting Ltd, visit www.catalystconsulting.co.uk 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 Find out more about the Ever-So-Lean Podcast at www.eversolean.com Please don’t forget to show your support and help the Ever-So-Lean Podcast thrive by taking a moment to rate and review it, your feedback matters!

This is Ever-So-Lean Extra, where we serve up an extra dose of excellence! In Season 1, we're immersing ourselves in the prestigious UK Excellence Awards, an event that epitomises innovation, quality and sheer excellence on a national scale. Imagine a platform where industry leaders, influencers, and visionaries converge to celebrate the pinnacle of achievement in business. We're rolling up our sleeves and diving headfirst into each award category. From the judges who meticulously study every submission to the sponsors who lend their support, from the finalists who embody excellence to the winners who stand triumphant—we'll hear from them all! In this episode, Matt shines a spotlight on the Excellence in Lean Six Sigma award category. Exploring what makes this category so significant and hear from key figures who have been part of its journey. We sit down with Pepper Clayton-Fisher from the British Heart Foundation. With a rich history of excellence, the British Heart Foundation won the award in 2022, and Pepper transitioned from a winner to awards judge in 2023. There is much to learn from Pepper’s experiences, as she offers her inside view from both sides of the table.  We'll welcome back Martin Brenig-Jones from Catalyst Consulting Ltd, long-time sponsors of the Excellence in Lean Six Sigma category. Martin will share insights into the trends he’s observed and explain why the UK Excellence Awards and Catalyst Consulting are closely aligned. We also get to meet our 2023 winner, Helios Towers, with Allan Fairbairn joining us to discuss their award-winning work and the impactful initiatives Helios Towers is implementing across the globe. To learn more about the UK Excellence Awards and the benefits of being a BQF member, visit www.bqf.org.uk. And don't forget to tune in to more episodes of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, available on all major platforms or at www.eversolean.com.

This is Ever-So-Lean Extra, where we serve up an extra dose of excellence! In Season 1, we're immersing ourselves in the prestigious UK Excellence Awards, an event that epitomises innovation, quality and sheer excellence on a national scale. Imagine a platform where industry leaders, influencers, and visionaries converge to celebrate the pinnacle of achievement in business. We're rolling up our sleeves and diving headfirst into each award category. From the judges who meticulously study every submission to the sponsors who lend their support, from the finalists who embody excellence to the winners who stand triumphant—we'll hear from them all! In this special episode, we delve into the UK Excellence Awards' category of Excellence in Environmental Sustainability. This category aims to reward those committed to the future of our world by considering natural resources, as well as social and economic reserves. If you’ve made changes to your people, processes, systems, or products to create a culture of sustainability by involving and engaging everyone, this is the award for you! I am thrilled to introduce Bryony Roberts from Pragmatic Consultancy, one of the judges for the Environmental and Sustainability category. Pragmatic Consultancy, also the sponsor of this award in 2023, will continue their sponsorship in 2025, which is fantastic news! Bryony will take us behind the scenes to reveal what the judging panel looks for in excellence in sustainability. Additionally, we'll hear from Tim Sismey and Paul Roach from National Express, finalists in 2023, who will share their inspiring journey. Last but not least, we'll meet our 2023 winners, Vanesa Kelly from HVS. Vanesa will give us an inside look at their winning entry and share insights on what makes a successful submission. Introduced in 2023 as 'Excellence in Environmental Sustainability', this award has now evolved to 'Excellence in Sustainability' for 2025, broadening its scope to recognize even more outstanding efforts. To learn more about the UK Excellence Awards and the benefits of being a BQF member, visit www.bqf.org.uk. And don't forget to tune in to more episodes of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, available on all major platforms or at www.eversolean.com.

This is Ever-So-Lean Extra, where we serve up an extra dose of excellence! In Season 1, we're immersing ourselves in the prestigious UK Excellence Awards, an event that epitomises innovation, quality and sheer excellence on a national scale. Imagine a platform where industry leaders, influencers, and visionaries converge to celebrate the pinnacle of achievement in business. We're rolling up our sleeves and diving headfirst into each award category. From the judges who meticulously study every submission to the sponsors who lend their support, from the finalists who embody excellence to the winners who stand triumphant—we'll hear from them all! In this special episode, we delve into the UK Excellence Awards' category of Excellence in Innovation. We'll hear from visionary organizations that challenge norms and pioneer ground-breaking solutions. Smiths, the esteemed sponsors of this category, will discuss with us the true essence of innovation, as we're joined by Sarah-Jane Bacchus and Tony Tielen, Director of the Smith Excellence System, who was also on the judging panel at the 2023 awards, to tell us all about heir story. We'll also feature Martin Snewin from Currys, the 2023 award recipients, who will discuss their journey, the significance of the accolade, and how innovation drives their excellence. To learn more about the UK Excellence Awards and the benefits of being a BQF member, visit www.bqf.org.uk. And don't forget to tune in to more episodes of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, available on all major platforms or at www.eversolean.com.

Join us in this inspiring episode of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast as we welcome Carl Appleton, Co-Founder of Shape Associates and a true advocate for technology-driven efficiency. Carl’s remarkable journey from the Royal Navy to the Hampshire Fire Service and eventually to the Ports of Jersey as a Process Improvement Manager is a testament to the power of adaptability and seizing new opportunities. In this episode, Carl shares his invaluable insights on embracing continuous improvement, leveraging Microsoft 365 for maximum efficiency, and overcoming cultural and organisational challenges. Discover how questioning processes and applying common sense can lead to successful process improvements and hear real-world examples of leaders empowering their teams to challenge the status quo. We’ll take a light touch on the generational differences in technology adoption and how demonstrating the benefits of digital solutions can bridge the gap between younger and older employees. Carl’s firefighting background brings a unique perspective on prioritisation and maintaining focus, ensuring that every improvement effort is both effective and timely. Fostering a collaborative and supportive culture is key to successful process improvement, and Carl emphasises the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment where innovation can thrive. Learn how continuous learning, seeking mentorship, and staying curious are vital for personal and professional growth in the realm of continuous improvement. One of the highlights of this episode is Carl’s emphasis on engagement and buy-in from leadership. Hear how senior leaders at the Port of Dover set the tone for continuous improvement events and the powerful message it sends to their teams. Finally, Carl’s dedication to simplifying complex concepts makes continuous improvement accessible to everyone. By using plain language and relatable examples, he ensures that participants can grasp and apply what they learn effectively, making sustained change a reality. Don’t miss this enlightening and inspiring conversation with Carl Appleton. Tune in to gain practical advice, actionable insights, and the motivation to embrace continuous improvement in your own career and organisation.

This is Ever-So-Lean Extra, where we serve up an extra dose of excellence! In Season 1, we're immersing ourselves in the prestigious UK Excellence Awards, an event that epitomises innovation, quality and sheer excellence on a national scale. Imagine a platform where industry leaders, influencers, and visionaries converge to celebrate the pinnacle of achievement in business. We're rolling up our sleeves and diving headfirst into each award category. From the judges who meticulously study every submission to the sponsors who lend their support, from the finalists who embody excellence to the winners who stand triumphant—we'll hear from them all! Customer experience is crucial for building loyalty and driving the success of any business or service. But what does it take to achieve true excellence in customer experience? In this episode, we dive into the Excellence in Customer Experience award category at the UK Excellence Awards, celebrating organisations that prioritise their customers at every touchpoint.  Join us as we hear from the 2023 winners, reigning champions Octopus Energy, and finalists Arthur Ellis. Gain exclusive insights from Mike Vernon of Arval, a judging panel member, to uncover what the judges look for in a winning entry. Plus, don’t miss our conversation with Laura McLaren, Head of Continuous Improvement at Tesco, a brand synonymous with customer-first thinking and proud sponsor of this award category. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of customer excellence! To learn more about the UK Excellence Awards and the benefits of being a BQF member, visit www.bqf.org.uk. And don't forget to tune in to more episodes of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, available on all major platforms or at www.eversolean.com.

This is Ever-So-Lean Extra, where we serve up an extra dose of excellence! In Season 1, we're immersing ourselves in the prestigious UK Excellence Awards, an event that epitomises innovation, quality and sheer excellence on a national scale. Imagine a platform where industry leaders, influencers, and visionaries converge to celebrate the pinnacle of achievement in business. We're rolling up our sleeves and diving headfirst into each award category. From the judges who meticulously study every submission to the sponsors who lend their support, from the finalists who embody excellence to the winners who stand triumphant—we'll hear from them all! In this episode, we dive into the heart of "Excellence in Continuous Improvement Culture" with insights from two of the judging panel, Carla Thomas and Martin Brenig-Jones. They reveal the tough decision to award two outstanding winners, CooperVision and Smiths, each embodying excellence in CI Culture in their own unique approaches. Hear from these inspiring organisations and their journey to success, alongside insights from award sponsor, PMI, into what it is that attracts them to sponsor this prestigious accolade. To learn more about the UK Excellence Awards and the benefits of being a BQF member, visit www.bqf.org.uk. And don't forget to tune in to more episodes of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, available on all major platforms or at www.eversolean.com.

Step into the realm of leadership mastery as we meet Katie Anderson, an international recognised author, leadership consultant, coach and professional speaker. Join us as we delve deep into purpose-driven leadership, continuous improvement, and it’s importance in organisational culture. We uncover transformative insights from Katie’s bestselling book, ”Learning to Lead, Leading to Learn,” hailed with international acclaim, including the prestigious Shingo Publication Award! In this episode, Katie shares her profound experiences living across seven countries and collaborating closely with Toyota leader Mr Yoshino, offering a global perspective that enriches our understanding of leadership excellence. From aligning actions with inner purpose to embracing failure as a catalyst for growth, Katie unveils her secrets to fostering cultures of learning that accelerate individual and organisational impact. Explore the evolution of purpose-driven leadership and discover the pivotal role of reflection and continuous learning in personal and professional development. Gain insights into creating psychological safety and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, essential for driving innovation in today’s dynamic landscape. 🔗 Links to Katie’s resources: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kbjanderson/ KbjAnderson.com - https://kbjanderson.com/ Learning to LEAD, Leading to LEARN - https://amzn.to/3SCwQbd

This is Ever-So-Lean Extra, where we serve up an extra dose of excellence! In Season 1, we're immersing ourselves in the prestigious UK Excellence Awards, an event that epitomises innovation, quality and sheer excellence on a national scale. Imagine a platform where industry leaders, influencers, and visionaries converge to celebrate the pinnacle of achievement in business. We're rolling up our sleeves and diving headfirst into each award category. From the judges who meticulously study every submission to the sponsors who lend their support, from the finalists who embody excellence to the winners who stand triumphant—we'll hear from them all! The UK Excellence Awards celebrate organisations achieving significant operational transformations, benefiting customers and employees alike. Entries, ranging from cultural shifts to process improvements, compete for the prestigious Transformation Excellence Award. In this episode, we hear from 2023 laureates Jade Wilcox of Wilcox Limousines (winners) and Laura McLaren of Tesco (finalists), both sharing their transformation journeys. Additionally, we discuss the symbiotic relationship between the award and Strathclyde Business School, with Katie Ballantyne providing insights as both a school representative and a judge in this category. To learn more about the UK Excellence Awards and the benefits of being a BQF member, visit www.bqf.org.uk. And don't forget to tune in to more episodes of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, available on all major platforms or at www.eversolean.com.

This is Ever-So-Lean Extra, where we serve up an extra dose of excellence! In Season 1, we're immersing ourselves in the prestigious UK Excellence Awards, an event that epitomises innovation, quality and sheer excellence on a national scale. Imagine a platform where industry leaders, influencers, and visionaries converge to celebrate the pinnacle of achievement in business. We're rolling up our sleeves and diving headfirst into each award category. From the judges who meticulously study every submission to the sponsors who lend their support, from the finalists who embody excellence to the winners who stand triumphant—we'll hear from them all! In this episode, Matt sits down with forvis mazars Partner, Alan Frost, to explore the profound connection between forvis mazars and the UK Excellence Awards. Uncover the driving forces behind forvis mazars' steadfast commitment to recognising and celebrating excellence in business. Gain invaluable insights into the synergies between forvis mazars' values and the ethos of the UK Excellence Awards, and discover the transformative impact of this partnership on the business landscape. To learn more about the UK Excellence Awards and the benefits of being a BQF member, visit www.bqf.org.uk. And don't forget to tune in to more episodes of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, available on all major platforms or at www.eversolean.com.

Tune that dial for an adrenaline-fueled journey through the epic saga of Fix Radio, a modern-day David battling the industry Goliaths in the realm of UK radio. Led by visionary founder Louis Timpany and industry veteran, Director Paul Chantler. Fix Radio’s rise from humble beginnings to national acclaim is a gripping tale of passion, perseverance and the power of innovation. Join Paul and Matt as they peel back the layers of this captivating narrative, uncovering the secrets behind Fix Radio’s meteoric ascent and the daring manoeuvres that propelled it to the forefront of the radio industry. What were the challenges? Where did the idea of a UK trades focused radio station come from? And what about the presenters, are they really builders? Prepare to be swept away by tales of triumph, resilience and the unwavering pursuit of excellence as we explore the remarkable journey of Fix Radio, a true underdog story for the ages. 🔗 Links to Paul’s resources: FIX Radio - https://www.fixradio.co.uk/ Paul’s Website - https://paulchantler.com/ Essential Media Law - https://amzn.to/3Ty1O4h

Welcome to a transformative episode of the Ever-So-Lean Podcast, where we delve into the fascinating world of sleep, stress management, and peak performance with the remarkable Alexandra Gibson. Join us on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment as Alexandra shares her insights into optimising performance and well-being through the power of quality sleep and stress management. From her acclaimed clinics in London’s Harley Street to virtual boardrooms, Alexandra’s mission is clear: to optimise performance and wellbeing by unlocking the power of quality sleep and stress management. Just how important is a good nights rest? Why does it matter? How many hours of sleep should we get? Get answers to these questions and more, as we explore the profound impact of sleep on our cognitive abilities, physical health, problem solving and overall well-being. Discover practical strategies for enhancing sleep quality, navigating change, and embracing a mindset of growth and positivity. Get ready to ”awaken” your sleepy self and embark on the road to optimal performance and well-being with Alexandra Gibson. 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 Find out more about the Ever-So-Lean Podcast at www.eversolean.com Please don’t forget to show your support and help the Ever-So-Lean Podcast thrive by taking a moment to rate and review it, your feedback matters!