Strategy and Leadership Podcast

The New Rules of Talent Retention with Global Talent Advisor Steve Cadigan

🚨 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
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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...
 
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► 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...

Goodfood's Vision for Strategic Growth: A Conversation with CEO Jonathan Ferrari

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

OKRs & Performance Culture: Interview with Ben Lamorte of OKRS.com

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

Conflict As An Opportunity: A Conversation with Dana Caspersen on Conflict Management In The Workplace

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

The Power Of The Chief of Staff Role: Interview with Maggie Olson of Nova Chief of Staff

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

Growth Strategy in Volatile Times: Interview with Rebecca Homkes

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...

The Art of Innovation: Lessons from Microsoft -JoAnn Garbin

JoAnn Garbin, author of the Insider's Guide to Innovation at Microsoft. She explores the concept of regenerative data centers, the creative journey of innovation, the importance of diverse perspectives, and the challenges faced in the innovation process. Joanne shares her personal experiences, including her battle with cancer and how it has shaped her approach to innovation and leadership. The discussion emphasizes the need for a holistic view of innovation beyond technology, focusing on community engagement and sustainable practices.
 
takeaways
Regenerative data centers aim to create positive feedback loops with their environment.
Innovation requires a diverse range of perspectives and collaboration.
Identifying pain points and opportunities is crucial in the innovation process.
Synthesis is a key component of successful innovation.
Life experiences can profoundly shape one's approach to leadership and innovation.
Engaging with the community can transform perceptions of infrastructure projects.
Incremental improvements are not enough; sometimes a complete refactor is necessary.
Bad innovation often stems from a lack of understanding of the target audience.
The journey of innovation is complex and requires both hard and soft skills.
Personal challenges can lead to a renewed focus on what truly matters.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to C-Suite Conversations
01:19 Understanding Regenerative Data Centers
03:37 The Creative Journey of Innovation
09:43 The Importance of Diverse Perspectives in Innovation
11:34 Identifying Bad Innovation Practices
14:36 Navigating Challenges in Innovation
19:35 Personal Experiences Shaping Innovation Perspectives
25:56 Connecting with the Audience and Future Endeavors

Nicholas Lalla, founder of Tulsa Innovation Labs

In this episode of C-suite Conversations, host Anthony Taylor speaks with Nicholas Lalla, founder of Tulsa Innovation Labs. They discuss the journey of establishing an innovation economy in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the importance of strategic focus and stakeholder engagement, and the challenges of change management in urban development. Nicholas emphasizes the need for cities to find their unique strengths and not simply emulate larger tech hubs like New York or San Francisco. The conversation highlights the potential for mid-sized cities to thrive by leveraging their assets and fostering inclusive growth.
 
00:00 Introduction to Tulsa Innovation Labs
02:46 Building an Innovation Economy
06:06 Strategic Focus and Stakeholder Engagement
08:50 Change Management in Urban Development
11:50 Decentralizing the Innovation Economy
14:47 Final Thoughts and Future Directions
 
For more on Tulsa Innovation Labs visit: https://www.tulsainnovationlabs.com/
 
For more on SME Strategy visit: https://www.smestrategy.net/

The DNA of Organizational Success: Lean Insights from the Flow Consortium

The Strategy and Leadership podcast, host Anthony Taylor welcomes Nigel Thurlow, CEO of the Flow Consortium, to delve into the nuances of lean thinking and continuous improvement. Nigel shares his extensive experience from Toyota and beyond, offering insights into how Lean principles can apply to various organizational contexts, emphasizing the significance of behavior alongside methodology and tools. This episode is packed with thought-provoking discussions on cultural transformation, the role of human factors, and how organizations can effectively harness their workforce to achieve long-term success.
Nigel explores the concept of viewing organizations as complex adaptive systems and discusses why prescriptive methodologies often fall short in such environments. He emphasizes the importance of human behaviors and culture in achieving continuous improvement, drawing from his collaborations with complexity thinking experts. Listeners will learn about the practical application of lean methodologies beyond manufacturing environments, discover the importance of root cause analysis, and gain insights into how organizations like McKinsey are shifting their focus toward unlocking human potential. Nigel also discusses practical strategies for leaders to engage employees in continuous improvement and empower teams to make impactful decisions.
Key Takeaways:
Lean thinking transcends manufacturing and can be applied to any area with non-value-added activities, focusing on eliminating waste and enhancing processes.
Organizations must adapt to complex systems by shifting from prescriptive methodologies to emphasizing human factors and team dynamics.
Effective leadership involves empowering teams to address problems and contribute to cultural transformation by creating a psychologically safe environment.
Root cause analysis should identify not only the point of occurrence but also the point of cause to effectively address underlying issues.
The Strategy and Leadership podcast is hosted by SME Strategy Consulting.
Connect with them when you are looking for a strategic planning facilitator for your next strategy offsite.https://www.smestrategy.net/en/strategic-planning-facilitator

The 5-Year Exit Strategy: How to Maximize Your Company's Value

Episode Summary:
Cindy Anderson, CEO of Think Strategy, shares her expert insights into the world of business transitions and strategic acquisitions. Cindy stresses the importance of preparing an exit strategy well in advance, highlighting a five-year timeline to ensure the business is poised for a successful transition. She delves into crucial considerations business owners need to assess, such as the value of company growth, strategic acquisitions, leadership development, and team readiness, especially in the context of evolving market trends as we approach 2025.
Throughout the conversation, Cindy explores various exit strategies, including the intricacies of ESOPs, helping owners to find tailor-made solutions that align with their business objectives and personal goals. By considering internal transitions or preparing for external sales, she emphasizes the necessity for intentional planning to maximize company value. The discussion extends to the importance of leadership readiness and team development, empowering owners to add significant value to their businesses. Cindy reflects on her personal journey of selling her CPA firm and how those lessons shape her approach today. Listeners will gain a thorough understanding of strategic planning in the context of transitioning out of a business, ensuring the optimal outcomes for both owners and employees.
Key Takeaways:
The Importance of an Early Exit Strategy: Business owners should plan their exit strategies at least five years in advance, providing time to prepare for successful transitions.
Valuing Internal and External Transitions: Every business needs a strategy that aligns with its unique goals and the marketplace, such as implementing ESOPs for suitable companies.
Leadership and Team Development: Building a strong, independent leadership team can enhance a company's value and facilitate smoother transitions.
Timing and Strategy Flexibility: Understanding when to act on a sale offer based on market conditions and readiness can significantly influence the success of the transaction.
Cindy's Personal Experience: Lessons learned from selling her own business highlight the importance of having a comprehensive plan and experienced advisors during transition phases.
The Strategy and Leadership podcast is hosted by SME Strategy Consulting.
Connect with them when you are looking for a strategic planning facilitator for your next strategy offsite.https://www.smestrategy.net/en/strategic-planning-facilitator
Want to learn how to facilitate your own strategic planning process? Enroll in the Aligned Strategy Course: https://courses.smestrategy.net/courses/Aligned-strategy-course
Connect with the host Anthony Taylor on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/