Why do the world’s leading brands increasingly act like startups? In this episode, Co-CEO of Cro Metrics, Gwen Hammes, shares her insights from working with global giants such as Mars, Kimberly-Clark, Stellantis, Clorox, Levi Strauss, Sargento, and SC Johnson. Drawing from her decades of experience at iconic agencies like Ogilvy, FCB, and DDB, Gwen explains how experimentation, data, and creativity combine to unlock growth and build lasting brand love. With a proven track record of helping Fortune 500 companies overcome unseen barriers and shift consumer behavior, Gwen offers invaluable lessons for leaders seeking to foster innovation, empower their teams, and deliver measurable impact. Watch the full conversation for actionable advice on how to lead with data-driven confidence while still embracing creativity and human connection. Work with us to facilitate your strategic plan: https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic-planning-facilitator Enroll your SLT in our: Management Training on Strategy Execution.  In this podcast, you will learn: ☑️ Why the biggest brands are adopting a “small business mindset.” ☑️ How data and experimentation fuel sustainable growth. ☑️ The role of creativity in driving profitable business outcomes. ☑️ How to assemble world-class teams that balance insights with innovation. ☑️ Why building brand love is essential to long-term success. This podcast is for: ▶️ CEOs and executives navigating growth and transformation. ▶️ Leaders seeking to balance creativity and analytics. ▶️ Marketing professionals aiming to inspire innovation. ▶️ Anyone responsible for scaling organizations in competitive markets. About the Guest: Gwen Hammes is the Co-CEO of Cro Metrics, where she leads teams that expand the impact of experimentation across marketing organizations. Her career has spanned leadership roles at Ogilvy, FCB, and DDB, partnering with global powerhouses like Mars, Kimberly-Clark, Stellantis, Clorox, Levi Strauss, Sargento, and SC Johnson. Gwen is recognized as a trusted advisor to CMOs navigating today’s complex marketplace, known for her ability to foster profitable growth while cultivating lasting consumer connections. She resides in Chicago with her husband and two sons. 🔗 Learn more about Gwen and Cro Metrics: https://crometrics.com 🔗 Connect with Gwen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gwen-hammes/ About the Host: Anthony Taylor is the CEO, Founder, and Senior Facilitator at SME Strategy. With over 14+ years of experience in strategy work, he holds a BBA and is a Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM). Based in Vancouver, Canada, Anthony helps leadership teams around the world create and implement successful strategic plans. 🔗 Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/ About SME Strategy: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm specializing in helping organizations develop and implement strategic plans. We facilitate conversations around strategic direction so leaders can focus their energy on what drives results. Learn more: https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic... Helpful Resources & Contact: ▶️ More from our online courses: https://courses.smestrategy.net ▶️ Contact our team: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact ▶️ Podcast produced by: Rednyne Productions Subscribe for More: Get weekly videos on strategy, leadership, and implementation. Subscribe so you never miss an update on how to grow your organization. 

Why does fearless leadership matter more than ever? In this podcast, entrepreneur and author Brendan P. Keegan unpacks what it means to be a fearless leader and how to create environments that support high performance. With over 25 years as a CEO and now on a mission to build one million fearless leaders, Brendan shares lessons from business, motorsports, and his own life about courage, culture, and continuous growth. About the Guest: Brendan P. Keegan is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and author of Dare to Disrupt: The 8 Pillars of Transformation. He has served as CEO of six companies, invested in ventures spanning motorsports to technology, and is Co-Owner of Andretti Global. Brendan is also the founder of The Fearless Leadership Experience, with over 150,000 subscribers on LinkedIn, dedicated to his mission of building one million fearless leaders Listen to the full conversation to learn actionable leadership advice that will help you perform at your best and inspire others to do the same. Work with us to facilitate your strategic plan: https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic-planning-facilitator Learn more about our courses: https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Leading-Strategy-Execution  

Why do so many innovation initiatives fall flat—even in successful companies? In this episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, Anthony Taylor sits down with innovation expert Robyn Bolton to discuss what leaders get wrong about innovation, how to create the right conditions for it to thrive, and what it takes to build a truly innovative culture. With experience at P&G and other leading brands, Robyn shares actionable stories and surprising truths about leadership, risk, and repeatable innovation. ► Work with us to facilitate your strategic plan: https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic-planning-facilitator   In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why innovation is more than just a process • How leaders accidentally kill innovation by “doing what worked before” • Why operating instincts are the enemy of innovation instincts • What it means to “channel your inner George Costanza” • How to hedge risk and lead through uncertainty   Who it's for: • CEOs, Entrepreneurs, and Strategy Leaders • Innovation teams and R&D professionals • Organizations facing disruption or trying to stay ahead • Anyone rethinking how they lead change   About the Guest: Robyn Bolton is the founder of MileZero, a consulting firm that helps organizations unlock innovation and drive repeatable growth. A former P&G brand manager, Robyn is the author of Unlocking Innovation and a leading voice on leadership-driven innovation strategy. Website: https://www.milezero.io/about/   About the Host: Anthony Taylor is the CEO of SME Strategy, a strategic planning consulting firm. With over 14 years of experience, he’s helped organizations worldwide build strategic plans that get results. LinkedIn: /anthonyrtaylor604   Helpful Resources: • Explore our strategy services: https://www.smestrategy.net • Online courses for leaders: https://courses.smestrategy.net • Connect with Anthony: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/   Podcast produced by Rednyne Productions https://www.rednyne.com  

In this episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, our guest, Vanessa Druskat, author of "The Emotionally Intelligent Team: Building Collaborative Groups That Outperform the Rest," provides valuable insights into what makes some teams succeed while others fail. Vanessa discusses the importance of psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and team dynamics. She shares her journey from academia to developing a model for building emotionally intelligent environments where team members thrive.Discover how understanding team interactions and cultivating trust can transform the way teams function. Vanessa explains the role of empowerment, belonging, and the many-to-many relationships crucial for team success. Whether you're a leader looking to improve team performance or curious about the intricacies of team dynamics, this episode offers practical advice and thought-provoking perspectives.

Welcome to this exciting episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, where we delve into the transformative power of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) with our expert guests, Josh Davis and Greg Promushkin. As authors of 'NLP and the Science of Positive Change,' they share their unique insights into how NLP can be practically applied in everyday life and leadership to foster significant and lasting changes. Our discussion highlights the importance of effective communication, understanding and meeting others mentally and emotionally, and practicing the art of influence. Whether you are looking to improve your leadership skills or personal development, this episode provides valuable strategies and real-world examples of how NLP can help you achieve your goals. Tune in and discover the difference that makes the difference, a step towards better communication and leadership. Subscribe for more insightful conversations like this one on the Strategy and Leadership Podcast.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to NLP and Its Importance 03:09 Understanding Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) 07:33 Practical Applications of NLP in Everyday Life 11:07 How to Incorporate NLP in Communication 14:29 The Impact of Communication and Responsibility 19:35 Closing Thoughts on NLP and Communication   Learn more about our strategic planning services Elevate your strategic thinking skills

In this episode of the Strategy and Leadership podcast, Dr. Julie Wilson shares her journey as a family doctor and healthcare leader. She discusses her passion for ethical business practices, the importance of creating a positive workplace culture, and her vision for expanding healthcare access. Dr. Wilson emphasizes the need for effective communication and compassion in leadership, as well as the significance of fostering a supportive environment for employees. The conversation highlights her commitment to driving system-level change in healthcare and her excitement for future growth in her organization.   Access our courses to support your strategy leadership: https://courses.smestrategy.net/ Learn more about our Strategic Planning Facilitation Services    ► Contact SME Strategy: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact ► Connect with Anthony: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/

In this captivating episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, host Anthony welcomes John D. Marvin, the esteemed CEO and President of Texas State Optical (TSO). Together, they delve into the fascinating history of TSO, a pioneering optometry practice founded in 1936 by the Rogers brothers, and its evolution into a respected brand across multiple states. John shares his unconventional journey to leadership, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced while revitalizing TSO after decades of changing ownership. He provides insights into his unique leadership style, which emphasizes influence over control in guiding franchisees towards success. The episode offers valuable lessons on creating a resilient brand and business legacy, balancing autonomy with guidance, and the importance of starting with purpose and core values. Perfect for aspiring CEOs, business owners, and anyone interested in the dynamic interplay of strategy and leadership.

Andrew Miller, the president and CEO of United Way of Skagit County and the co-founder and CEO of Tulip Valley Farms. Discover how Andrew transitioned from a career in Air Force intelligence to embracing life as a tulip farmer, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to both farming and community work. Andrew shares his unique strategic insights, discussing the challenges and opportunities in the tulip farming industry, the transformation of the United Way of Skagit County, and the importance of adaptability and curiosity in leadership. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a nonprofit leader, or someone fascinated by unconventional career paths, this episode offers valuable lessons on maintaining an agile mindset and navigating change in today's fast-paced world.      

Anthony Taylor interviews Blair LaCorte, a seasoned CEO with extensive experience in private equity and aviation. They discuss Blair's journey, particularly his time at XOJet, where he transformed a struggling airline into a successful business through innovative strategies and a focus on customer needs. The conversation delves into the importance of leadership, team dynamics, and the necessity of self-care for CEOs. Blair shares valuable insights on navigating challenges, fostering innovation, and treating people with respect, even during difficult transitions.   Learn more about SME Strategy and how we support strategic planning facilitation.

Anthony Taylor and Tim Kohler discuss the critical aspects of business valuation, emphasizing the importance of balancing revenue growth and profitability. They explore strategic decision-making in large organizations, the role of the CEO in resource allocation, and the necessity of understanding financial drivers to create value. Tim shares insights from his extensive experience in corporate finance and highlights the need for a disciplined approach to decision-making and investment.   Connect with Tim here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timkoller/ Get his book: https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/strategy-and-corporate-finance/our-insights/valuation-measuring-and-managing-the-value-of-companies #businessvaluation, #revenue growth, #profitability, #strategicplanning, #decision-making, #corporatefinance,  #financialanalysis, #cashflowLearn more about SME Strategy Consulting https://www.smestrategy.net

Dr. Bernard Harris, the first black astronaut to walk in space, shares his incredible journey from childhood dreams of space exploration to becoming a physician, venture capitalist, and author. He discusses the importance of mentorship, visualization, and embracing infinite possibilities in achieving one's highest potential. Dr. Harris emphasizes the need for audacious goal setting and the value of perspective gained from unique experiences, such as viewing Earth from space. He also offers insights into leadership and the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals.   ► Contact us: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact ► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn:   / anthonyctaylor604  

This SME Strategy Podcast episode features technology and leadership innovator Kevin Surace, offering expert guidance on leveraging generative AI to enhance content creation and drive strategic growth and strategic planning. Learn how to make better decisions, improve your customer experience, and cultivate a culture of joy in work that supports your business strategy. Kevin's perspectives on leadership in 2025 and the role of innovation are crucial for any business aiming for strategic success. Tune in for practical takeaways on building a future-forward business strategy powered by AI. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kevin Surace and His Work 03:00 The Role of AI in Modern Business 06:02 Generative AI: Transforming Content Creation 09:04 AI in Leadership and Decision Making 11:46 The Joy Success Cycle: Finding Joy in Work 18:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts // Connect with us: ► Contact us: https://hubs.la/Q03gh-Pj0 ► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn:   / anthonyctaylor604     // About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster. ► Work with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://hubs.la/Q03gh-Pj0 ► Take The Aligned Strategy Course: Leading a strategic planning session of your own? Get the tools you need to be effective in our Aligned Strategy Course. https://courses.smestrategy.net/ ► Strategy Leadership Toolkit: Unlock your potential as a leader with a comprehensive toolkit designed for managers. Master strategic decision-making, planning, and stakeholder engagement to drive effective change. https://courses.smestrategy.net/

This episode of the SME Strategy & Leadership podcast focusses on navigating hyper-growth, the power of servant leadership, and crucial exit strategies relevant for 2025. Cameron Bishop of Raincatcher shares his extensive experience in leading companies through significant transformations, emphasizing effective communication, employee engagement, and the strategic steps businesses must take to maximize their value for a successful exit. Key Takeaways: Hyper-Growth & Leadership: Learn how servant leadership principles can effectively guide and sustain hyper-growth within an organization. Employee-Centric Strategies: Discover the value of employee engagement, active listening, and fostering a collaborative organizational culture. The Power of Communication: Understand why transparent and frequent communication is vital during periods of transformation and change. Strategic Exit Planning: Gain insights into the critical steps and mindset shifts required to strategically plan for a successful business exit in the current landscape of 2025. Maximizing Business Value: Learn why proactive planning and working "on" your business, rather than just "in" it, is essential for achieving optimal business valuation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Management Styles 02:53 Navigating Challenges in Business 06:08 Transformational Leadership and Employee Engagement 08:59 Communication and Integration in Organizations 11:48 Building a Diverse Leadership Team 14:54 Preparing for Business Exit Strategies 18:08 The Importance of Business Valuation and Planning If you're in a period of hyper-growth, going through transformational change, or planning your exit strategy, consider a strategic planning facilitator to align your team and clarify your vision.   // Connect with us: ► Contact us: https://hubs.la/Q03gh-Pj0 ► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/ //   ABOUT SME STRATEGY CONSULTING: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster. ► Work with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://hubs.la/Q03gh-Pj0  

On this episode of the SME Strategy Podcast, global management thought leader Faisal Hoque serves up essential guidance on the evolving landscape of AI and technology in 2025. He underscores the vital role of purpose-driven leadership in navigating today's market uncertainty. Faisal introduces the CARE framework as a fundamental structure for AI governance, addressing the critical ethical concerns and potential risks of AI. This discussion emphasizes the collective responsibility of leaders, organizations, and governments in guiding the development and application of AI responsibly. Understand why a clear strategic approach to AI is now a core necessity.   Key Takeaways: AI demands a fundamental shift in strategic leadership, strategic management, and strategic thinking. Effective strategic planning and implementation must account for current market uncertainty. Focus and purpose are foundational for effective business and strategic leadership. The CARE framework provides a clear method for assessing critical AI risks. AI offers significant potential for predictive modelling, including healthcare advancements. Over-reliance on AI can lead to a decline in fundamental human capabilities. Sound AI governance hinges on shared collective responsibility. The ongoing evolution of AI requires adaptable and decisive leadership. Understanding the balance of opportunity and risk is a core element of strategic planning. Direct engagement with ethical considerations is essential for AI implementation.   Chapters: 00:00 The Essentials of AI and Technology in 2025 03:05 Navigating Business Uncertainty: A Leadership Imperative 06:12 The Foundational Role of Purpose-Driven Leadership in the Age of AI 09:12 The CARE Framework: Essential AI Governance 10:47 Understanding the Real Risks and Ethical Concerns of AI 19:26 Collective Responsibility: The Bedrock of AI Development   // Connect with us: ► Contact us: https://hubs.la/Q03gh-Pj0 ► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn:   / anthonyctaylor604     // About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster.   ► Work with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://hubs.la/Q03gh-Pj0

🚨 Talent retention strategies are failing. Businesses need to fundamentally shift operations to continue to thrive. 🚨 In this powerful episode of the SME Strategy Podcast, we sit down with Steve Cadigan, LinkedIn's first CHRO and a global talent advisor, to uncover the harsh realities of today's talent marketplace and reveal what you need to consider for strategic implementation today. Steve doesn't hold back. He exposes the core issues plaguing businesses and leaders and provides clear directives for immediate action. Here's what you'll learn: The truth about employee tenure: (Did you know? The average tenure for 20-35 year olds is just 2.5 years, 4 years average for US) Why your company needs to become a "business school" to retain top talent. The critical "skills awareness problem" and how to solve it. Why trust and transparency are non-negotiable in today's workforce. How to turn your alumni into a strategic asset. The mandatory business transformation needed to adapt to the new talent reality.   Cadigan's Strategic HR Directives: Tenure is Transient: Recognize the reality of shorter employee retention and prioritize rapid skill acquisition. Learning is Core: People are loyal to learning, not positions. It’s time to invest in continuous growth. Skills Awareness is Paramount: Bridge the skills gap with internal development. Trust is Non-Negotiable: Build a culture of transparency and communication. Alumni are Strategic Assets: Leverage your former employees for future success. Skill Growth drives Career Security: Empower employees with valuable, future-proof skills. Business Transformation is Mandatory: Reimagine your business model for the new talent landscape. Direct Talent Retention Strategies for Actionable Impact: Establish Learning as a Core Function: Implement strategic learning programs and mentorship. Optimize for Rapid Skill Acquisition: Design flexible career paths and project-based learning. Build a Culture of Unwavering Transparency: Implement consistent communication and feedback channels. Leverage Alumni as a Strategic Network: Create alumni networks and host strategic events. Prioritize Skill Development for Career Stability: Focus on skill-based training and career growth opportunities. Strategic Implementation for Lasting Results: Conduct a thorough assessment of current practices. Invest strategically in learning and development. Establish a culture of trust and clear communication. Develop a structured alumni engagement program. Embrace adaptability as a foundational principle. Don't let your talent retention strategies fail!   Watch this episode to gain the crucial insights and actionable strategies you need to adapt and thrive in today's talent market. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Talent Advisor Steve Cadigan 03:01 The Evolving Role of HR in Talent Management 05:52 Challenges in Attracting and Retaining Talent 08:52 Developing Effective Talent Strategies 12:02 The Importance of Learning and Development 14:43 Reimagining Business Models for Talent 18:10 Building Trust and Organizational Health 21:00 The Future of Talent and Employee Loyalty 23:51 Conclusion and Key Takeaways ---- SME Strategy can help increase the speed of internal change and implementation by driving alignment and buy-in with stakeholders through a structured and streamlined process. Book a call today to learn how we can help you achieve your goals: https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic...   // Connect with us:   ► Contact us: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact ► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn:   / anthonyctaylor604     // About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster. ► Work wi

Join Anthony Taylor, a seasoned strategic planning facilitator and the host of the SME Strategy Podcast, as he sits down with Jonathan Ferrari, the visionary founder, CEO, and chairman of Goodfood. Discover how Jonathan transformed a simple idea (fresh meal kits) into a national Canadian brand, delivering over 15 million meals annually and employing nearly a thousand people. Jonathan shares his vision for strategic growth and his journey from investment banking to revolutionizing the Canadian food delivery landscape. We explore the strategic decisions that propelled Goodfood's growth, including: 1. Navigating Early Challenges: Learn how Goodfood overcame logistical hurdles and innovated in temperature-controlled packaging, moving from apartment deliveries to a nationwide network. 2. Strategic Diversification: Explore the company's bold move into Bitcoin reserves and its strategic acquisition of Genuine Tea, showcasing innovative approaches to asset management and growth. 3. Building a Sustainable Competitive Advantage: Understand how Goodfood prioritized quality, sustainability, and social impact, partnering with organizations like the Breakfast Club of Canada to address food insecurity. 4. Leadership and Thought Leadership: Gain valuable lessons into Jonathan's strategic vision and leadership philosophy. As a strategic management facilitator, Anthony Taylor expertly guides the conversation, extracting key takeaways that you can apply to your own business. Chapters: 00:00 The Birth of Goodfood: A Culinary Journey 03:04 Challenges in the Food Delivery Space 06:04 Sustainability and Supply Chain Innovations 09:05 Social Impact and Community Engagement 12:02 Bitcoin as a Strategic Reserve 17:59 Acquisition and Supporting Food Entrepreneurs Key Takeaways: - Goodfood was founded in 2014 to address food delivery needs. - The company delivers 15 million meals annually and employs nearly 1,000 people. - Sustainability in packaging is a core focus for Goodfood. - Goodfood has donated over a million meals to combat food insecurity. - The company has adopted Bitcoin as a strategic reserve for financial growth. - Building a direct-to-consumer logistics network was a significant challenge. - Community engagement is vital for Goodfood's mission. - Goodfood aims to support other food entrepreneurs through acquisitions. - Sourcing local and healthy ingredients is a core value at Goodfood. - Jonathan's entrepreneurial spirit drives the company's innovative strategies.   If you're looking for expert guidance in strategic management facilitation, visit our website at www.smestrategy.net to learn more about our services and how we can help your organization achieve its strategic goals.   // Connect with us: ► Contact us: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact ► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/   // About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster. ► Work with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic-planning-facilitator

In this episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, Anthony Taylor chats with Ben Lamorte, an OKR expert, to break down how to actually make progress and drive measurable outcomes. Think OKRS explained without pretense. Ben, who's been helping teams nail their goals for years, reveals a major pitfall: treating OKRs as mere to-do lists. He'll show you how to ditch the vague "to-dos" and start setting goals that are actually measurable, like "Increase website traffic by 20% in Q3" instead of just "Launch a new marketing campaign." Plus, he'll explain why knowing why your goals matter is just as important as what they are. Anthony and Ben talk about how to move away from just "doing what you're told" and towards a team that's focused on real results. Ben shares easy-to-follow tips on how to communicate your goals to your boss and how to tweak your OKRs to make sure they're working for your team in your strategic planning and strategy implementation.. We'll also dive into the importance of change management and stakeholder engagement. Successfully implementing OKRs requires more than just a framework; it demands a shift from compliance to a performance-driven environment. Learn how to effectively communicate the benefits of OKRs, address resistance, and foster a sense of ownership and accountability-- and how a skilled strategic planning facilitator or strategic planning consultant can guide teams to define and track relevant metrics, ensuring alignment throughout the strategic planning process.   We discuss how to drive performance through effective OKRs by focusing on measurable outcomes and building a culture of accountability. Ben emphasizes the iterative nature of OKRs, suggesting you think of them like "rough drafts." The real value is in learning from what didn't work and quickly changing course. Key Takeaways: OKRs require practical application beyond theoretical training. Common mistakes include treating OKRs as to-do lists. Effective OKRs focus on measurable outcomes, not just activities. Change management is crucial for successful OKR implementation. Communication of objectives should start with the end goal in mind. Compliance work does not align well with the OKR framework. Iterative processes allow for learning and adaptation in goal setting. Quality of outcomes is more important than quantity of tasks. Support and coaching are essential for mastering OKRs. Organizations should embrace a performance-oriented culture. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to OKRs and Their Importance 02:48 - Common Mistakes in Implementing OKRs 06:02 - The Role of Change Management in OKRs 08:55 - Compliance Culture vs. Performance Culture 11:56 - Effective Communication of Objectives 14:59 - Iterative Nature of OKRs 17:46 - Conclusion and Resources Learn More About OKRs: Visit Ben Lamorte at www.OKRS.com // Connect with us: ► Contact us: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact ► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/   // About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster. ► Work with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic-planning-facilitator

In this episode we are joined by Dana Caspersen, TedX speaker and author of "Conflict is an Opportunity," who reveals how to: Shift from blame to collaborative solutions. Cultivate curiosity and active listening. Make requests, not demands, for buy-in. Avoid the high cost of conflict avoidance. Build strategic capacity through conscious decision-making.  Key Takeaways Conflict is often viewed negatively, but it can be a creative space. Curiosity is essential for navigating conflict effectively. Trust can develop through open and honest communication. Avoiding conflict leads to a loss of information and relationships. Leaders should focus on the situation, not the person, in conflict. Expressing needs without blame fosters better communication. Understanding different perspectives is crucial in conflict resolution. Conflict can reveal important information that may otherwise be overlooked. Engaging in conflict can lead to more conscious decision-making. Building power together in conflict can lead to better outcomes.   Chapters 00:00 The Dance of Conflict: An Introduction 10:01 Understanding Conflict as an Opportunity 20:05 Navigating Power Dynamics in Conflict   // Connect with us: ► Contact us: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact ► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/ // About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster. ► Work with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic-planning-facilitator

In this episode, Anthony Taylor talks with Maggie Olson, a former T-Mobile Chief of Staff, about what that job really means. They cover how it's a strategic role, not just admin, how it differs from other leadership roles, and what skills are needed. Maggie explains how to become a Chief of Staff and why leaders should consider hiring one to boost efficiency. This podcast reveals how hiring Chief of Staff can be your secret weapon to strategic success. TAKEAWAYS Chiefs of Staff are strategic partners for leaders. The role is expanding as leaders seek higher-level support. A Chief of Staff organizes and prioritizes initiatives for leaders. Networking is crucial for aspiring Chiefs of Staff. Look for roles that involve high-level support, not just administrative tasks. Experience in customer service can enhance a Chief of Staff's effectiveness. Special projects can provide valuable experience for future Chiefs of Staff. A Chief of Staff needs strong access to the leader to be effective. Understanding the unique needs of the organization is key to success. Consider the timing and readiness of the organization before hiring a Chief of Staff.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Chief of Staff Role 03:04The Evolution and Importance of the Chief of Staff 05:59 Identifying the Right Fit for Chief of Staff 08:58 Career Pathways to Becoming a Chief of Staff 12:07 Skills and Experiences that Shape a Chief of Staff 14:54 Final Thoughts and Resources for Aspiring Chiefs of Staff // Connect with us: ► Contact us: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact ► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/ // About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster. ► Work with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic-planning-facilitator

In this episode, Rebecca Homkes, author of "Survive, Reset, Thrive," discusses practical strategies for building a growth strategy in volatile times with host Anthony C. Taylor. The discussion explores proactive survival strategies, the "loop mentality" in strategic planning, building competitive advantages, and the significance of acting on beliefs rather than waiting for facts. Plus, we touch on developing talent for long-term resilience in a rapidly changing environment. Learn how to create a sustainable growth strategy in volatile times in this episode of the SME Strategy Podcast.   Key Takeaways Must embrace uncertainty as a growth opportunity. The reset phase is crucial for thriving post-crisis. Loop thinking allows for continuous strategy cycles. Proactive survival means preparing before shocks occur. Competitive advantages are eroding faster than ever. Acting on beliefs can lead to better strategic decisions. Organizations should focus on building loyalty with customers. Talent development is essential for long-term growth. Strategic plans should be living documents that adapt. Growth requires a commitment from leadership. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Survive, Reset, Thrive 02:55 Navigating Uncertainty in Leadership 05:51 The Importance of Loop Thinking 08:49 Building Competitive Advantage 12:11 Kickers and Killers: Strategic Planning Insights 14:58 Developing Talent for Growth 16:55 Conclusion and Call to Action   // Connect with us: ► Contact us: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact ► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn:   / anthonyctaylor604     // About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster.   ► Work with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic...