The Systems Thinker Show "Engineering Smarter Operations, One Episode at a Time"

Karass Innovations Group
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Unlock the power of systems thinking and revolutionize how you approach operations with The Systems Thinker Show. Each episode dives deep into the principles, tools, and strategies that empower professionals to design, optimize, and lead smarter, more efficient processes across industries. Whether you’re an engineer, manager, or curious problem-solver, this show delivers insights you can apply immediately—from lean thinking and process mapping to digital transformation and organizational dynamics. Join us as we decode complexity, break down silos, and engineer smarter operations.

  1. 7H AGO · BONUS

    付費重建文化自尊_拒絕免費午餐陷阱 S6E47

    為什麼聰明的領導者從不接受「免費午餐」？來自《權力48法則》的4個殘酷真相我們都喜歡免費的東西。從免費的軟體試用到供應商提供的免費諮詢，這些看似「零成本」的優惠總讓人難以抗拒。然而，在商業策略的棋局中，每一份「免費」的饋贈，都可能是一枚隱藏著義務與依賴的棋子。你真正付出的代價是什麼？這個問題不僅關乎財務，更觸及組織文化與領導力的核心。著名作家羅伯特·格林（Robert Greene）在其經典著作《權力48法則》中，將第40條法則定為：「藐視免費午餐」（Despise the Free Lunch）。這不只是一句警語，更是一種強大的策略思維。本文將揭示這條法則背後的4個殘酷真相，以及它如何深刻影響你的團隊與未来。 Title: Despise the Free Lunch Description:  Nothing of value comes without a price. When something is offered for free, there are often hidden costs. Avoid being indebted to others and always understand what you’re truly receiving. The best deals come when you pay your way and maintain your independence. ————————————— Resources: The Continuous Improvement Lab: https://www.karassinnovations.com/blog Book: Shift Happens - How To Lead with Purpose and Discipline Every Day: https://a.co/d/0JZ8auW  Subscribe for more insights:  https://open.spotify.com/show/6MqoJ1aZM1VA5cgeWvjlnX?si=86901c0534b14403 https://open.spotify.com/show/3YqjoH6AZg7AdDYHyCwDY0?si=ecc12289b5e84f29 Connect with Us: Website: https://www.karassinnovations.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lenierjohnson Meta:https://www.facebook.com/share/1AZorbNg72/?mibextid=wwXIfr Substack: https://karassinnovations.substack.com Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/karassinnovations.bsky.social YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDm1_im2u-gpFsTARP71ec11C2Z8xbEGV&si=4e6_5rdfoQIiT1Gu #ContinuousImprovement,#Podcast,#ProcessExcellence,#Leadership,#Lean,#SixSigma,#TheContinuousImprovementLab,#TheSystemThinkerShow,#MOS #Management Operating Systems,#Project2025,#Sludge,#scottgalloway,#karaswisher,#AnthonyScaramucci,#McKinsey, #Gallup, #Deloitte, #StevenBartlett,#petersenge,#KurtLewin,#JohnKotter, #RosabethMossKanter,#DarylConner

    17 min

  2. 12H AGO

    Despise the Free Lunch S6E47

    The Most Expensive Thing in Your Business Might Be FreeIn the business world, the word "free" is magnetic. A free software pilot, a complimentary consulting engagement, a no-cost analytics tool—these offers seem like strategic shortcuts to growth and efficiency. But what are the unseen obligations that come attached? What is the real price of accepting something for nothing?The most powerful and counter-intuitive business principles often challenge conventional wisdom. By exploring one such principle from Robert Greene's The 48 Laws of Power—"Despise the Free Lunch"—we can uncover why intentionally paying for value is a critical strategy for maintaining control, building a strong culture, and reclaiming your organization's independence. Title: Despise the Free Lunch Description:  Nothing of value comes without a price. When something is offered for free, there are often hidden costs. Avoid being indebted to others and always understand what you’re truly receiving. The best deals come when you pay your way and maintain your independence. ————————————— Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction  01:15 – Defining the Purpose Of the Episode   03:45 – Industry Research  06:30 – Real-World Example  10:00 – Key Differences and Application  15:00 – Conclusion and Takeaway Resources: The Continuous Improvement Lab: https://www.karassinnovations.com/blog Book: Shift Happens - How To Lead with Purpose and Discipline Every Day: https://a.co/d/0JZ8auW  Subscribe for more insights:  https://open.spotify.com/show/6MqoJ1aZM1VA5cgeWvjlnX?si=86901c0534b14403 https://open.spotify.com/show/3YqjoH6AZg7AdDYHyCwDY0?si=ecc12289b5e84f29 Connect with Us: Website: https://www.karassinnovations.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lenierjohnson Meta:https://www.facebook.com/share/1AZorbNg72/?mibextid=wwXIfr Substack: https://karassinnovations.substack.com Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/karassinnovations.bsky.social YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDm1_im2u-gpFsTARP71ec11C2Z8xbEGV&si=4e6_5rdfoQIiT1Gu #ContinuousImprovement,#Podcast,#ProcessExcellence,#Leadership,#Lean,#SixSigma,#TheContinuousImprovementLab,#TheSystemThinkerShow,#MOS #Management Operating Systems,#Project2025,#Sludge,#scottgalloway,#karaswisher,#AnthonyScaramucci,#McKinsey, #Gallup, #Deloitte, #StevenBartlett,#petersenge,#KurtLewin,#JohnKotter, #RosabethMossKanter,#DarylConner

    16 min

  3. JAN 7 · BONUS

    刻意製造混亂領導術_攪水捉魚的系統紀律 S6E46

    策略性動盪：『渾水摸魚』原則的深度解析與應用執行摘要本簡報深度分析了羅伯特·格林（Robert Greene）在其著作《權力48法則》中提出的第39法則——「渾水摸魚」，並將其轉化為一種名為「可控動盪」的現代管理策略。核心論點是，領導者可以刻意製造或利用組織內的混亂與緊張局勢，以暴露深層問題、識別真正的領導人才，並推動根本性的文化變革。一份詳細的商業案例研究顯示，一家製造公司透過公開展示關鍵績效指標（KPIs），成功地將一個規避風險、相互指責的文化轉變為一個透明、負責且協作的環境，最終實現了整體設備效率（OEE）的雙位數增長。此策略的有效性不僅限於製造業，在經濟、工程、醫療和聯邦政府等多個行業中均有實證支持，證明結構化的緊張局勢能顯著提升績效。然而，單純的動盪本身具有風險。本文件進一步比較了格林的戰術性方法與多位變革管理大師的觀點，特別是勒尼爾·強森（Lenier Johnson）提出的「管理作業系統」（Management Operating Systems, MOS）。結論是，雖然混亂能夠揭示真相，但必須與一套嚴謹的、以數據為驅動的系統（如MOS）相結合，才能將真相轉化為可持續的績效提升。若缺乏紀律性的框架，動盪將摧毀信任；反之，若有MOS作為支撐，動盪則成為推動文化成熟的強大引擎 Title: Stir Up Waters to Catch Fish Description:  In times of chaos, opportunities arise. Stir up confusion or conflict and watch how you can navigate the storm to your advantage. In the midst of disruption, others will make rash decisions, leaving you to take advantage of their mistakes. ————————————— Resources: The Continuous Improvement Lab: https://www.karassinnovations.com/blog Book: Shift Happens - How To Lead with Purpose and Discipline Every Day: https://a.co/d/0JZ8auW  Subscribe for more insights:  https://open.spotify.com/show/6MqoJ1aZM1VA5cgeWvjlnX?si=86901c0534b14403 https://open.spotify.com/show/3YqjoH6AZg7AdDYHyCwDY0?si=ecc12289b5e84f29 Connect with Us: Website: https://www.karassinnovations.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lenierjohnson Meta:https://www.facebook.com/share/1AZorbNg72/?mibextid=wwXIfr Substack: https://karassinnovations.substack.com Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/karassinnovations.bsky.social YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDm1_im2u-gpFsTARP71ec11C2Z8xbEGV&si=4e6_5rdfoQIiT1Gu #ContinuousImprovement,#Podcast,#ProcessExcellence,#Leadership,#Lean,#SixSigma,#TheContinuousImprovementLab,#TheSystemThinkerShow,#MOS #Management Operating Systems,#Project2025,#Sludge,#scottgalloway,#karaswisher,#AnthonyScaramucci,#McKinsey, #Gallup, #Deloitte, #StevenBartlett,#petersenge,#KurtLewin,#JohnKotter, #RosabethMossKanter,#DarylConner

    15 min

  4. JAN 7

    Stirring Waters Builds System Discipline S6E46

    Stir the Waters to Catch the Fish: Why Strategic Chaos Builds Stronger TeamsAs leaders, we are often driven by the desire to create calm, stable, and harmonious work environments. We equate a lack of turbulence with a healthy culture, believing that a smooth-running ship is a successful one. But this pursuit of stability, while well-intentioned, can mask deep-seated problems and prevent a team from reaching its true potential.What if the relentless pursuit of calm is actually a sign of stagnation? This question forces us to consider a counter-intuitive but powerful leadership tool: controlled disruption. By deliberately "stirring up the waters," we can expose uncomfortable truths, challenge hidden assumptions, and spark the kind of authentic growth that artificial harmony can never produce. Title: Stir Up Waters to Catch Fish Description:  In times of chaos, opportunities arise. Stir up confusion or conflict and watch how you can navigate the storm to your advantage. In the midst of disruption, others will make rash decisions, leaving you to take advantage of their mistakes. ————————————— Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction  01:15 – Defining the Purpose Of the Episode   03:45 – Industry Research  06:30 – Real-World Example  10:00 – Key Differences and Application  15:00 – Conclusion and Takeaway Resources: The Continuous Improvement Lab: https://www.karassinnovations.com/blog Book: Shift Happens - How To Lead with Purpose and Discipline Every Day: https://a.co/d/0JZ8auW  Subscribe for more insights:  https://open.spotify.com/show/6MqoJ1aZM1VA5cgeWvjlnX?si=86901c0534b14403 https://open.spotify.com/show/3YqjoH6AZg7AdDYHyCwDY0?si=ecc12289b5e84f29 Connect with Us: Website: https://www.karassinnovations.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lenierjohnson Meta:https://www.facebook.com/share/1AZorbNg72/?mibextid=wwXIfr Substack: https://karassinnovations.substack.com Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/karassinnovations.bsky.social YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDm1_im2u-gpFsTARP71ec11C2Z8xbEGV&si=4e6_5rdfoQIiT1Gu #ContinuousImprovement,#Podcast,#ProcessExcellence,#Leadership,#Lean,#SixSigma,#TheContinuousImprovementLab,#TheSystemThinkerShow,#MOS #Management Operating Systems,#Project2025,#Sludge,#scottgalloway,#karaswisher,#AnthonyScaramucci,#McKinsey, #Gallup, #Deloitte, #StevenBartlett,#petersenge,#KurtLewin,#JohnKotter, #RosabethMossKanter,#DarylConner

    12 min

  5. 12/03/2025 · BONUS

    Engineer High Performance Culture Not Slogans

    Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction  01:15 – Defining the Purpose Of the Episode   03:45 – Industry Research  06:30 – Real-World Example  08:00 – Key Differences and Application  10:00 – Conclusion and Takeaway Resources: The Continuous Improvement Lab: https://www.karassinnovations.com/blog Book: Shift Happens - How To Lead with Purpose and Discipline Every Day: https://a.co/d/0JZ8auW  Subscribe for more insights:  https://open.spotify.com/show/6MqoJ1aZM1VA5cgeWvjlnX?si=86901c0534b14403 https://open.spotify.com/show/3YqjoH6AZg7AdDYHyCwDY0?si=ecc12289b5e84f29 Connect with Us: Website: https://www.karassinnovations.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lenierjohnson Meta:https://www.facebook.com/share/1AZorbNg72/?mibextid=wwXIfr Substack: https://karassinnovations.substack.com Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/karassinnovations.bsky.social YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDm1_im2u-gpFsTARP71ec11C2Z8xbEGV&si=4e6_5rdfoQIiT1Gu #ContinuousImprovement,#Podcast,#ProcessExcellence,#Leadership,#Lean,#SixSigma,#TheContinuousImprovementLab,#TheSystemThinkerShow,#MOS #Management Operating Systems,#Project2025,#Sludge,#scottgalloway,#karaswisher,#AnthonyScaramucci,#McKinsey, #Gallup, #Deloitte, #StevenBartlett,#petersenge,#KurtLewin,#JohnKotter, #RosabethMossKanter,#DarylConner

    15 min

  6. 11/26/2025 · BONUS

    Culture by Design, Power by Discipline

    Resources: The Continuous Improvement Lab: https://www.karassinnovations.com/blog Book: Shift Happens - How To Lead with Purpose and Discipline Every Day: https://a.co/d/0JZ8auW  Subscribe for more insights:  https://open.spotify.com/show/6MqoJ1aZM1VA5cgeWvjlnX?si=86901c0534b14403 https://open.spotify.com/show/3YqjoH6AZg7AdDYHyCwDY0?si=ecc12289b5e84f29 Connect with Us: Website: https://www.karassinnovations.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lenierjohnson Meta:https://www.facebook.com/share/1AZorbNg72/?mibextid=wwXIfr Substack: https://karassinnovations.substack.com Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/karassinnovations.bsky.social YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDm1_im2u-gpFsTARP71ec11C2Z8xbEGV&si=4e6_5rdfoQIiT1Gu #ContinuousImprovement,#Podcast,#ProcessExcellence,#Leadership,#Lean,#SixSigma,#TheContinuousImprovementLab,#TheSystemThinkerShow,#MOS #Management Operating Systems,#Project2025,#Sludge,#scottgalloway,#karaswisher,#AnthonyScaramucci,#McKinsey, #Gallup, #Deloitte, #StevenBartlett,#petersenge,#KurtLewin,#JohnKotter, #RosabethMossKanter,#DarylConner

    2 min

  7. 11/19/2025

    Strategic Camouflage Boosts Team Culture S6E46

    Title: Think as You Like But Behave Like Others Description:  To navigate power structures, sometimes it’s necessary to blend in. You can think freely and uniquely, but behaving in a way that aligns with social norms and expectations keeps you from drawing unwanted attention. This strategy ensures you remain undetected while still holding your true beliefs. ————————————— Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction  01:15 – Defining the Purpose Of the Episode   03:45 – Industry Research  06:30 – Real-World Example  10:00 – Key Differences and Application  15:00 – Conclusion and Takeaway Resources: The Continuous Improvement Lab: https://www.karassinnovations.com/blog Book: Shift Happens - How To Lead with Purpose and Discipline Every Day: https://a.co/d/0JZ8auW  Subscribe for more insights:  https://open.spotify.com/show/6MqoJ1aZM1VA5cgeWvjlnX?si=86901c0534b14403 https://open.spotify.com/show/3YqjoH6AZg7AdDYHyCwDY0?si=ecc12289b5e84f29 Connect with Us: Website: https://www.karassinnovations.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lenierjohnson Meta:https://www.facebook.com/share/1AZorbNg72/?mibextid=wwXIfr Substack: https://karassinnovations.substack.com Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/karassinnovations.bsky.social YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDm1_im2u-gpFsTARP71ec11C2Z8xbEGV&si=4e6_5rdfoQIiT1Gu #ContinuousImprovement,#Podcast,#ProcessExcellence,#Leadership,#Lean,#SixSigma,#TheContinuousImprovementLab,#TheSystemThinkerShow,#MOS #Management Operating Systems,#Project2025,#Sludge,#scottgalloway,#karaswisher,#AnthonyScaramucci,#McKinsey, #Gallup, #Deloitte, #StevenBartlett,#petersenge,#KurtLewin,#JohnKotter, #RosabethMossKanter,#DarylConner

    14 min

  8. 11/12/2025

    The Spectacle of Power S6E45

    Title: Create Compelling Spectacles Description:  People are drawn to drama and spectacle. By creating memorable, dramatic moments, you captivate others and command attention. Spectacles can be a way to reinforce your image, intimidate opponents, or simply remind others of your power and influence. ————————————— Timestamps:  00:00 – Introduction  01:15 – Defining the Purpose Of the Episode   03:45 – Industry Research  06:30 – Real-World Example  10:00 – Key Differences and Application  15:00 – Conclusion and Takeaway Resources: The Continuous Improvement Lab: https://www.karassinnovations.com/blog Book: Shift Happens - How To Lead with Purpose and Discipline Every Day: https://a.co/d/0JZ8auW  Subscribe for more insights:  https://open.spotify.com/show/6MqoJ1aZM1VA5cgeWvjlnX?si=86901c0534b14403 https://open.spotify.com/show/3YqjoH6AZg7AdDYHyCwDY0?si=ecc12289b5e84f29 Connect with Us: Website: https://www.karassinnovations.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lenierjohnson Meta:https://www.facebook.com/share/1AZorbNg72/?mibextid=wwXIfr Substack: https://karassinnovations.substack.com Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/karassinnovations.bsky.social YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDm1_im2u-gpFsTARP71ec11C2Z8xbEGV&si=4e6_5rdfoQIiT1Gu #ContinuousImprovement,#Podcast,#ProcessExcellence,#Leadership,#Lean,#SixSigma,#TheContinuousImprovementLab,#TheSystemThinkerShow,#MOS #Management Operating Systems,#Project2025,#Sludge,#scottgalloway,#karaswisher,#AnthonyScaramucci,#McKinsey, #Gallup, #Deloitte, #StevenBartlett,#petersenge,#KurtLewin,#JohnKotter, #RosabethMossKanter,#DarylConner

    16 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Unlock the power of systems thinking and revolutionize how you approach operations with The Systems Thinker Show. Each episode dives deep into the principles, tools, and strategies that empower professionals to design, optimize, and lead smarter, more efficient processes across industries. Whether you’re an engineer, manager, or curious problem-solver, this show delivers insights you can apply immediately—from lean thinking and process mapping to digital transformation and organizational dynamics. Join us as we decode complexity, break down silos, and engineer smarter operations.

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