Strategy and Leadership Podcast

The Future Of Work with AI: AI For Business Strategy and Leadership in 2025 with Kevin Surace

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
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// 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.
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Servant Leadership and Exit Strategies in 2025: Business Strategy with Cameron Bishop

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.
 
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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
 

Strategic Leadership in the Age of AI in 2025 with Faisal Hoque

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
 
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// 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

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
----
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
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► 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
 
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► 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
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► 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
 
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// 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