Strategy and Leadership Podcast

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. Learn to be a better leader in our academy: https://courses.smestrategy.net/

Anthony Taylor and Tim Koller 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, #cashflow Learn 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 with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic...

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