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.

In this conversation, Ronald Graves, a seasoned leadership coach, discusses the intricacies of coaching, the importance of accountability, and the transformative power of self-discipline. He differentiates coaching from mentoring and training, emphasizing the role of a coach in drawing out potential from within individuals. Ronald shares insights on the coaching process, the significance of confidentiality, and the impact of coaching on personal and professional growth. He reflects on his transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship and offers wisdom for those considering coaching as a path for self-improvement.

In this milestone 20th episode of Lean Into Excellence, we’re diving into the critical role of supplier relations and how Lean Six Sigma can transform the way companies collaborate with their suppliers. From fostering continuous improvement to aligning goals for mutual success, we explore strategies to enhance quality, reduce inefficiencies, and build stronger partnerships.

Join us as we celebrate 20 episodes of driving excellence and look ahead to the future of collaborative success!

In this episode of Lean Into Excellence, we're joined by Joe Ficalora, a seasoned expert in Lean Six Sigma and process improvement. Together, we dive into the art of identifying and navigating successful continuous improvement projects. From mastering value stream mapping to understanding top-down versus bottom-up approaches, Joe shares practical insights and real-world examples to help you drive impactful change in your organization.

In this episode of Lean Into Excellence, we dive into the challenge of overcoming resistance to Lean Six Sigma initiatives within organizations. We discuss common reasons why teams may push back on these changes, explore the critical role of leadership in fostering a culture open to improvement, and share practical strategies for effective communication and change management. Tune in to gain insights on how to successfully engage your team and build support for Lean Six Sigma practices that drive meaningful results.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Natalie Woof, a powerhouse in the world of Lean Six Sigma. Natalie shares her incredible journey of career transformation, emphasizing the power of taking that crucial first step. From her initial doubts to becoming a sought-after expert, she embodies the spirit of "just start" and see what happens.

Join us as Natalie dives into her personal experiences, offering practical tips and motivation for anyone looking to make a change in their professional life. Whether you're contemplating a new career path or seeking to improve your current role, this conversation will ignite your passion and inspire you to embrace the journey of growth and learning. Don’t miss it!

In this episode of Lean Into Excellence, we dive into the world of continuous improvement and explore how it’s implemented differently in small businesses compared to large corporations. We’ll discuss the unique challenges and advantages each type of organization faces, while also uncovering the key similarities that make continuous improvement essential for success, no matter the size. Whether you're leading a small team or managing a large-scale operation, this episode will provide valuable insights to help you drive positive change in your organization.

As we celebrate our 15th episode, we dive deep with the founders of Tiger Tamers, LLC – a group of US Navy veterans who are revolutionizing the continuous improvement landscape. These industry mavericks bring their naval expertise to the corporate world, offering a unique blend of methodologies that's changing the game.

Discover how Tiger Tamers is the only firm integrating DISC Flow, Symmetry Inspire, and the Network Talent Model with tried-and-true Lean Six Sigma practices. Learn about their mission to "Shape the Passion Within" and how they're empowering professionals to achieve spectacular success in both personal and professional realms.

In this episode, we dive deep into the future of continuous improvement by exploring how artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics are revolutionizing the way businesses optimize their processes. Join our experts as they discuss practical strategies, real-world applications, and the transformative impact of these cutting-edge technologies

Join us for an enlightening conversation with process improvement expert, Doug Bruce, as we uncover the essential do's and don'ts of Kaizen events. In this episode, we dive deep into the critical factors that can make or break your continuous improvement initiatives.

Doug shares his wealth of experience, revealing:

• The crucial do's that ensure Kaizen event success
• Common don'ts and pitfalls to avoid at all costs
• Strategies for engaging team members and fostering a culture of continuous improvement
• Real-world success stories and lessons learned from Doug's extensive career

Tune in and take your Kaizen events to the next level!

Join us for an engaging episode as we sit down with Work Stream Consulting's Founder, Chuck Gillis, who answers your burning questions about process improvement and Six Sigma. Whether you're new to these concepts or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in to learn from Chuck's expertise and discover how you can apply these powerful strategies to enhance efficiency and drive continuous improvement in your organization.

In this insightful episode, we delve into the pivotal role of Leader Standard Work (LSW) within the realm of Continuous Improvement. Join us as we sit down with Dave Cloutier, the seasoned expert and owner of StraTac Consulting, to explore how LSW can transform leadership practices and drive sustainable success in organizations.

In this conversation, Liz Cricenti and Marco Bonilla are joined by guest Ken Stocco to explore common misconceptions around Six Sigma education and continuous improvement. Together, they emphasize that true success goes beyond certifications — it requires critical thinking, real-world application, and mentorship. While tools and methodologies are valuable, they should never replace a practitioner’s ability to adapt, solve problems, and apply practical experience. The discussion reinforces the importance of cultivating a continuous improvement mindset, learning from challenges, and fostering team buy-in to drive meaningful, lasting results.

Join us for a special milestone as "Lean Into Excellence" celebrates its 10th episode! In this exciting installment, we're thrilled to welcome Agile expert Lucy O'Keefe to the show.

Agile ways of working have revolutionized the way organizations approach product development and continuous improvement. In this insightful episode, Lucy shares her wealth of knowledge and experience, delving into the principles of Agile and its role in driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Contact Lucy:

LinkedIn 

luciana@dartfrogconsulting.com

Lucy's class schedule can be found here.

Tune in to our latest episode as we delve into the crucial role of control plans in the realm of continuous improvement, with Herb Robbins (Founder of Robbins International). From minimizing defects to ensuring process stability, control plans are indispensable tools for maintaining quality standards and driving sustainable progress. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of control plans, explore best practices, and share insightful tips for implementing effective control strategies.

Join us for an insightful episode as we delve into the world of Lean Six Sigma in the service industry. Aidan Magner, a seasoned expert from 3Sixty, joins us to share his invaluable expertise on implementing Lean Six Sigma methodologies to drive excellence and efficiency in service-oriented businesses. From identifying opportunities for improvement to streamlining processes, Aidan offers practical insights and strategies to optimize service delivery and enhance customer satisfaction. Whether you're new to Lean Six Sigma or looking to enhance your service operations, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples to inspire your continuous improvement journey. 

 Join us for an enlightening episode as we sit down with Jed Summerton to explore the transformative power of data storytelling.  Through captivating anecdotes and practical insights, Jed demonstrates how effectively communicating data through storytelling can inspire change and drive meaningful progress. Whether you're a seasoned data enthusiast or just beginning to explore its possibilities, this episode promises to ignite your imagination and empower you to leverage data storytelling for impactful change within your organization's continuous improvement journey. Tune in and embark on a journey of discovery with us!

In this episode, join us as we dive into the critical role of measurement systems in continuous improvement, featuring special guest Kurt Peterson. We'll explore how effectively measuring performance metrics is essential for assessing progress, identifying areas for improvement, and driving sustainable change.

Kurt will share insights on designing and implementing robust measurement systems, overcoming common challenges, and leveraging data-driven decision-making to optimize organizational performance. Whether you're new to continuous improvement or a seasoned practitioner, this episode promises to provide valuable insights to help you navigate the complexities of measurement systems and achieve greater success in your improvement initiatives. 

In this episode of "Lean Into Excellence," your hosts Liz Cricenti and Marco Bonilla tackle questions submitted by our listeners, focusing on the key aspects of continuous improvement. From exploring best practices to discussing strategies for avoiding failure when shifting organizational culture towards continuous improvement, Liz and Marco provide actionable insights and practical advice to help you on your journey towards operational excellence. Tune in as we dive deep into the world of continuous improvement and lean methodologies, answering your burning questions and guiding you toward success.

Join us in this enlightening episode as we discuss the impact of Process Capability in transforming businesses. Our special guest, Greg Masciana, an expert in the field, will share his insights on the WHY and HOW of Process Capability, and its key role in optimizing process performance.

Discover how Process Capability can predict the future error rate of any process, and is thus a powerful tool for fostering a culture of continuous improvement. We'll explore real-life examples, share success stories, and provide actionable insights to guide you on your journey toward operational excellence. Tune in to learn how Process Capability, with Greg's expert perspective, can be a game-changer for your organization's success.

In this episode of "Lean Into Excellence," join us as we dive into the dynamic world of Six Sigma tools with our in-house expert and Master Black Belt, Ken Stocco. We explore the nuanced realms of Qualitative and Quantitative tools, shedding light on their distinctive features and the strategic benefits they offer.

🔍 Key Topics Covered:

• Understanding the essence of Qualitative and Quantitative tools in the Six Sigma methodology.
• Unraveling the unique strengths each tool brings to the table and their applications in process improvement.
• Real-world scenarios: When to strategically deploy Qualitative or Quantitative tools for optimal results.
• Ken Stocco shares his insights and experiences, providing a practical guide for navigating the diverse landscape of Six Sigma.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey into the realm of continuous improvement, this episode equips you with valuable knowledge to enhance your problem-solving toolkit. Tune in to "Lean Into Excellence" and elevate your understanding of Six Sigma tools to drive excellence in your organization!

📅 New episodes are released every other Wednesday. Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.

Join us in this enlightening episode as we delve into the intricate world of process mapping and its pivotal role in transforming businesses. Our special guest, Doug Bruce, an expert in the field, will share his insights on the importance of process mapping and its profound impact on operational efficiency. Discover why process mapping is more than just a visual representation—it's a powerful tool for fostering a culture of continuous improvement. We'll explore real-life examples, share success stories, and provide actionable insights to guide you on your journey towards operational excellence. Tune in to learn how process mapping, with Doug's expert perspective, can be a game-changer for your organization's success.

Dive into the inaugural episode of "Lean Into Excellence," where we unravel the essence of continuous improvement, debunking myths, defining ownership, and exploring the dynamic landscape. Join us for an engaging conversation that sets the stage for a journey of insights, innovation, and excellence. Don't miss out on the debut episode—tune in for a riveting exploration of the world we're about to shape together! 

In this episode, we sit down with Elisabeth White, CEO of Cornerstone Agility and author of People Do Change, for a powerful conversation on human-centric change management.

Elisabeth reminds us that change isn’t just a process—it’s an emotional journey. She shares why empathy must be at the heart of leadership during transformation, and how a growth mindset, trust, and community are critical to helping teams move forward.

If you lead people through change—or are navigating it yourself—this episode is filled with thoughtful insight on how to do it with clarity, compassion, and purpose.

Chapters

In this episode of Lean Into Excellence, we sit down with Dr. Lucas Chesla to explore his journey from the Marine Corps to becoming a champion of Lean Six Sigma and organizational transformation.

Drawing from his book Revolutionize Work: A Guide to Enterprise Transformation (co-authored with Kirk Nicholas), Dr. Chesla shares powerful insights on leadership, culture, and the role of data in driving meaningful change. He dives into the importance of storytelling in data analysis, challenges common misconceptions about Lean Six Sigma, and emphasizes how empowered employees are key to sustaining continuous improvement.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to inspire action, align strategy, and build a culture where excellence is more than a buzzword—it’s how the work gets done.

Dr. Lucas Chesla - LinkedIn:   / dr-lucas-chesla-lssmbb-pmp-25aab4102  

Revolutionize Work: A Guide to Enterprise Transformation: https://amzn.to/4kbJbik

In this episode of Lean Into Excellence, we’re joined by Mark Reich, Senior Coach at the Lean Enterprise Institute and author of the new book Managing on Purpose. Mark brings decades of experience in Lean leadership, including 23 years at Toyota, to a powerful conversation on what it really takes to build and sustain a culture of continuous improvement.

We dive deep into the principles of Hoshin-Kanri and why it's critical for aligning strategy from the top down and bottom up. Mark explains how tools like A3 problem-solving and daily management are not just techniques—but essential components of a purpose-driven organization.  Mark also reflects on the evolution of Lean, challenges in post-pandemic workplaces, and how new leaders can avoid common pitfalls while building sustainable improvement systems.

If you care about turning strategy into meaningful action—without losing sight of your people—this episode is a must-listen.

To purchase Mark's book Managing on Purpose, please click below:

https://www.lean.org/store/book/managing-on-purpose/

Chapters

We’re excited to welcome back Doug Bruce to Lean Into Excellence for a powerful conversation about the often-overlooked value of White and Yellow Belt training in the Lean Six Sigma journey.

In this episode, we break down why these entry-level certifications aren’t just for beginners—they’re essential for building a strong foundation of continuous improvement across any organization.

We discuss:
✅ How individuals at all levels benefit from early-stage training
✅ Why companies should invest in developing problem-solving skills across the workforce
✅ Real-world examples of how White and Yellow Belts create lasting impact

Whether you're new to Lean Six Sigma or leading a team, this episode will show you why every improvement journey starts with the right mindset and the right tools.

In this episode of Lean Into Excellence, we’re shaking things up! Chuck Gillis steps in for Marco Bonilla as we welcome special guest Mike Daley to the conversation. Together, we dive into the evolution of Corrective Action Request (CAR) and Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA)—exploring how these essential processes have transformed over time to drive lasting improvements.

If you’re in quality, process improvement, or leadership, this episode is packed with insights to help you tackle issues at the source and create a culture of continuous improvement.

Dr. W. Edwards Deming is often called the father of modern quality management, but his impact extends far beyond statistical process control. In this episode of Lean Into Excellence, we explore how Deming’s philosophy reshaped industries, from post-war Japan’s manufacturing boom to today’s Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. We’ll break down his 14 Points for Management, the System of Profound Knowledge, and how his teachings continue to drive continuous improvement in organizations worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned quality professional or just beginning your journey, this episode will deepen your understanding of Deming’s lasting influence on operational excellence.

For years, "government efficiency" has sounded like an oxymoron—but with the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the conversation is shifting. In this episode of Lean Into Excellence, we explore:

✅ Can government agencies truly embrace efficiency?
✅ Who’s already doing it right? 
✅ What’s the best way to support and sustain change in the public sector?

We break down the real challenges and opportunities in making government work smarter, not harder. If the private sector can streamline operations, why not public institutions?

Join us as we challenge the status quo and uncover what it really takes to bring continuous improvement to the halls of government.

Resources:

https://www.mma.org/about-mma/publications/bestpractices/

https://asq.org/quality-press/display-item?i