Lean Into Excellence

Liz Cricenti and Marco Bonilla

5.0 (6)
MANAGEMENT
UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to 'Lean into Excellence,' the podcast where we dive deep into the dynamic world of Continuous Improvement. Join us as we explore real-life applications, share success stories, and unravel the secrets behind these transformative methodologies. Get ready to lean into a world where efficiency meets innovation, right here on 'Lean into Excellence.'

FEB 4

The Power of Incremental Improvement

In this dynamic conversation, Marco and Doug dive into the powerful idea of incremental improvement, showing how tiny, intentional changes can outperform big, flashy plans every time. They bring the 1% better philosophy to life—revealing how focusing on small, daily upgrades can compound into massive progress over time. Packed with real‑world examples, the discussion covers practical strategies for making those changes stick, the critical role of leaders in empowering teams, and how to spot and eliminate waste in any process. Marco and Doug make a compelling case that continuous improvement isn't just for factories or boardrooms—it's for every job, every team, and every person who wants to get a little better, every single day. 00:00 The Pursuit of Incremental Improvement 02:48 Understanding the 1% Better Philosophy 05:18 Quick Wins and Empowerment 09:34 The Role of Management in Change 16:15 Identifying and Reducing Waste 19:35 Practical Tips for Continuous Improvement 36:47 Wrapping Up: The Power of Small Changes

44 min
11/13/2025

Cutting Waste, Creating Value: Lean in Construction with Clark Lowe

In this episode, we speak with Clark Lowe, CEO of O'Connor Company, about the application of Lean and Six Sigma principles in the construction industry. We discuss the challenges and opportunities of implementing these methodologies in a traditionally slow-to-adapt sector, particularly in a fully remote work environment. Clark shares insights on overcoming resistance, the importance of mindset, and how to start continuous improvement processes. He emphasizes the significance of building a culture around these principles rather than focusing solely on numbers. The conversation also touches on the future of Lean Six Sigma in construction, including the integration of AI and the upcoming release of Clark's book on remote work. To reach out to Clark, visit him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarklowe/ https://www.buildoconnor.com/

36 min
10/29/2025

Mastering Cost Management: Insights from Duane Deason

In this episode, we sit down with Duane Deason, a seasoned expert in cost management, to explore the challenges organizations face in managing costs without sacrificing value. Duane shares insights from his extensive career, discussing the inefficiencies that often arise as companies grow, the importance of cultural awareness in cost management, and the role of leadership in fostering a cost-effective environment. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on business efficiency and the necessity of internal cost management teams. Duane emphasizes the need for a lean approach to encourage innovation while maintaining operational efficiency, especially during mergers and acquisitions. https://www.linkedin.com/in/duanedeason/ Purchase Duane's book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FRN125K1/ 00:00 Introduction to Cost Management Challenges 02:48 Duane Deason's Career Journey and Insights 05:40 The Inefficiencies of Growing Organizations 08:46 Cultural Awareness and Cost Management 11:23 The Role of Leadership in Cost Control 14:17 The Importance of Internal Cost Management Teams 17:18 Navigating Cost Management During Mergers and Acquisitions 20:20 The Impact of AI on Cost Management 22:55 The Future of Cost Management and Innovation 25:56 Conclusion and Book Insights

44 min
10/15/2025

Unlocking Leadership Potential: The Lionheart Approach wit Eric Rogell

Get ready for an energizing conversation with Eric Rogell, as we uncover the powerful connection between mentorship and bold leadership! Discover how courage, authenticity, and a modern take on masculinity shape today's most impactful leaders. Eric also introduces the Lionheart Challenge — a thrilling 30-day journey designed to help you unleash your full leadership potential through timeless archetypes. From the discipline of military training to tackling imposter syndrome in the boardroom, this episode dives deep into how to balance assertiveness with empathy for truly unstoppable leadership. Tune in — these insights could change the way you lead forever! 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Mentorship 03:04 The Importance of Mentorship in Leadership 05:44 Masculinity and Leadership Dynamics 08:52 The Role of Military Training in Leadership 11:45 Archetypes of Leadership: Warrior and Lover 14:50 Integrating Masculine and Feminine Leadership 17:45 Decisiveness in Leadership 20:43 Conclusion: The Path to Strong Leadership 22:39 The Warrior and the Lover in Leadership 26:29 Imposter Syndrome Among Executives 29:29 The Importance of Intuition in Leadership 33:24 The Lionheart Challenge: A 30-Day Transformation 37:12 Courage in Leadership: Overcoming Fear and Resistance Learn more about Eric below: https://ericrogell.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericrogell/ https://thelionheartchallenge.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Lions-Raised-Lambs-Passionate-Successful/dp/B0CJLCLTJW

38 min
10/01/2025

Understanding the Realities of Entrepreneurship with Jim Mirochnik

In this episode, Jim Mirochnik, CEO of HALOCK Security Labs, shares his journey from a challenging childhood as an immigrant to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the cybersecurity field. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the misconceptions surrounding entrepreneurship, and the critical role of teamwork and patience in achieving business success. Jim emphasizes that failure is a valuable teacher and that the narrative of overnight success is often misleading. He provides insights into building a successful business model and the importance of legacy in entrepreneurship. Get in touch with Jim: jmirochnik@halock.com https://www.halock.com/our-team/jim-mirochnik/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmirochnik/ 00:00 Introduction to Jim Mirochnik 02:09 Early Life and Influences 04:47 The Entrepreneurial Drive 06:37 Misconceptions About Entrepreneurship 08:31 The Importance of Teamwork 10:18 Learning from Failure 11:46 The Reality of Overnight Success 18:22 Patience and Persistence in Business 20:33 Roadmap to Business Success 29:15 Legacy and Future Aspirations

31 min
09/17/2025

From Hype to Practicality: Making AI Work for Business with David Trier

This week on Lean Into Excellence, we're joined by David Trier, an experienced leader in product management and AI operations, as well as the VP of Product at ModelOp. Together, we explore the evolving role of AI in business—cutting through definitions and misconceptions to uncover how organizations can harness AI responsibly. David shares practical insights on balancing innovation with governance and risk management, highlighting why companies must not only embrace AI's potential for productivity and process efficiency, but also prepare for the challenges it brings. We also dive into the future of AI in the enterprise, the rise of ModelOp, and what leaders can do today to ensure safe, effective, and scalable adoption of AI. Dave Trier, Vice President of Product at ModelOp Dave has more than 20+ years of experience as a Data & Analytics, Model Operations/MLOps, and AI strategy expert. Most notably, in a previous role as a manager and consultant at Accenture, he led large-scale enterprise transformation projects and helped pioneer the space of ModelOps through various Accenture consultancy tools and solutions. Prior to joining ModelOp, where he defines and executes strategy for ModelOp Center, Dave held several technology and data leadership roles. This included VP of Advanced Analytics Services at Teradata, and Chief Technology Officer at Powered by Action. With his two decades of technology and product management experience and multiple patents in his name, Dave helps ensure ModelOp continually delivers cutting edge innovation, helping enterprises implement and drive business transformation with ground-breaking technologies—from AI, big data, and cloud computing, to IoT solutions. Connect with him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidetrier/ Learn more about ModelOp: https://www.modelop.com/ 00:00 Introduction to AI and Its Impact on Business 04:58 Understanding AI: Definitions and Misconceptions 09:37 AI in Business Operations: Practical Applications 12:12 Navigating Risks and Governance in AI Adoption 16:22 Cultural Resistance and Employee Perspectives on AI 21:38 Future of AI: Trends and Predictions 27:27 Model Ops: Enabling Safe AI Implementation

30 min
09/03/2025

Unpacking 'The Impossible Box' with Kristen Hubler

Join us as we chat with Kristen Hubler, best-selling author and change management specialist, as we explore her path from education into corporate training, the importance of preparing organizations for change, and the effects of the pandemic on digital transformation. Kristin shares how the ADKAR model can be used to manage change and overcome resistance, plus insights from her book, The Impossible Box, which motivates readers to chase their dreams and take practical steps toward their goals. 00:00 Introduction to Change Management and Kristin Hubler 02:59 Understanding Change Readiness 04:56 Impact of the Pandemic on Change Management 11:44 Navigating Resistance to Change 14:49 The ADKAR Model for Change Management 21:40 Effective Communication Strategies for Change Management 23:43 Reinforcement and Sustaining Change 26:41 Navigating Leadership Changes During Projects 26:55 The Journey of Writing 'The Impossible Box' 31:39 Future Aspirations: The Impossible Leaders 33:39 Adapting Methodologies Through Experience 37:54 The Importance of Discovery in Change Management 39:43 Connecting with Kristen: Workshops and Resources https://www.kristenbhubler.com/ https://www.kristenbhubler.com/workshops-by-kristen https://www.instagram.com/workshopsbykristen/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenbhubler/ To purchase "The Impossible Box", click below: https://amzn.to/47XeI4o

41 min
08/20/2025

Frontline Leadership Unlocked: Empowering Teams with Tania Will Jeppesen

In this episode, we sit down with Tania Will Jeppesen, founder of The Prepared Leader, to explore the pivotal role and challenges of frontline leadership. Tania shares her journey of equipping these leaders with the tools to thrive, from emotional intelligence and time management to effective communication strategies. Discussion highlights include: Why investing in mentorship, business acumen, and senior leadership buy-in is essential for frontline leadership to succeed. Building leadership routines that bring clarity, reduce overwhelm, and boost operational excellence. Practical insights on applying the PDCA framework—Plan, Do, Check, Act—for continuous improvement and lasting impact. Join us for a conversation rich with practical wisdom, empathy, and tangible strategies for developing leaders who lead confidently from the front. 00:00 Introduction to Frontline Leadership 02:54 The Importance of Prepared Leadership 05:55 Setting Up Frontline Leaders for Success 08:48 Understanding Business Acumen 11:47 Senior Leadership Buy-In 14:41 Operational Challenges for Frontline Leaders 18:01 Transitioning from Firefighter to Fire Preventer 20:41 The PDCA Framework for Problem Solving 23:56 The Future of Frontline Leadership 26:51 Final Thoughts and Resources Contact Tania today to learn more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taniawilljeppesen/ https://www.thepreparedleader.com/

42 min

5

out of 5

6 Ratings

Welcome to 'Lean into Excellence,' the podcast where we dive deep into the dynamic world of Continuous Improvement. Join us as we explore real-life applications, share success stories, and unravel the secrets behind these transformative methodologies. Get ready to lean into a world where efficiency meets innovation, right here on 'Lean into Excellence.'

Creator

Liz Cricenti and Marco Bonilla
Years Active

2024 - 2026
Episodes

37
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2023
Show Website

Lean Into Excellence