In this episode of "The Strategy Gap", hosts Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause engage in a robust conversation with Marc Mertz, the Chief Strategy Officer at Kaweah Health. Marc, who has over 25 years of experience in the healthcare industry, delves into the significant role of a Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). He explains that a CSO is pivotal in leading the development of the strategic plan, engaging various teams in the process, and overseeing the plan’s execution throughout the year. Marc highlights that his position allows him to focus on conceptual strategic thinking, such as developing new services and market positioning, as opposed to being absorbed by day-to-day operational responsibilities.

The discussion further explores the challenge of balancing immediate operational pressures with strategic foresight, especially in a high-stakes environment like healthcare. Marc shares his insights on encouraging executives and staff to allocate mental space for strategic thinking by conducting visioning sessions. He also talks about the importance of transforming complex strategic plans into simplified formats, such as a single-page document that includes the organization’s mission, vision, pillars, and measurable outcomes. This approach not only enhances understanding and visibility but also ensures the strategic plan remains a functional tool rather than a neglected document.

Moreover, the episode emphasizes the vital components of execution and accountability in strategic planning. Marc discusses the use of tools like AchieveIt to track progress, ensure timely updates, and maintain visibility across the organization. He also underscores the significance of regular updates and presentations to leadership teams and the board, which fosters continuous engagement and accountability. The conversation touches on the necessity of annual reviews to adjust plans as needed while celebrating milestones and successes to keep the momentum going. By engaging all levels of the organization and maintaining a structured review process, Marc firmly believes that strategic plans can transition from static documents to dynamic guides that drive meaningful progress.

In this episode:

• 0:00 The Role of the Chief Strategy Officer in Healthcare
• 4:19 Strategic Thinking for Executives During Crisis
• 8:34 Community-Informed Strategic Planning for Organizational Success
• 10:17 Including Stakeholders in Plan Execution: Focusing on Benefits
• 15:44 Scorekeeping and Visibility in Strategic Planning
• 17:41 Managing Control and Pressure in Professional Settings
• 20:43 The Power of Consistency in Achieving Change
• 25:41 The Importance of Adhering to One-Year Plans
• 27:35 Navigating the First Year: Patience and Focus

Curious about how universities are navigating the fast-changing landscape of higher education?

In this episode of The Strategy Gap, Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause welcome Shawn Daley, the Chief Strategy and Business Development Officer at George Fox University, for a deep dive into the challenges and innovations shaping the future of academia.

Discover how higher ed institutions are borrowing strategies from for-profit sectors to stay competitive, hear firsthand how Shawn is revolutionizing student and parent experiences with ideas borrowed from the hospitality and tech industries, and gain insight into the financial hurdles facing smaller schools. If you're looking to understand the next wave of change in higher education, this episode is a must-listen.

Here's what you'll learn in the episode:

• 00:00 - George Fox: Overcoming FAFSA Challenges and Growing
• 3:07 - Challenges of University Governance in a Changing Market
• 7:46 - Exploring the Influence of Hospitality in Real Estate and Urban Planning
• 13:10 - Monthly Staff Meetings and Initiative Reviews 
• 17:04 - Facilitating Faculty Collaboration Through Market Research Team Involvement
• 20:00 - The Chaotic Life of an Administrator
• 23:55 - The Future of Technical and Leadership Training
• 26:06 - Challenges of Higher Education Partnerships
• 29:40 - Enhancing Academic Career Success through Broader Sector Understanding

When it comes to generative AI, most people are asking the wrong question: Is it good or bad? But the better way to approach this omnipresent topic is by figuring out the RIGHT way to implement the tech into your strategy and processes.

To talk about this, we’re joined by Lisa Esch, Senior Vice President and Chief of Strategy, Innovation, and Industry Solutions at NTT DATA. Lisa provides a crash course on all things generative AI, LLMs, and the risks and calculations any type of organization should be factoring into their decision-making surrounding AI. Lisa’s experiences in healthcare tech—and the lessons she’s learned from witnessing how AI has shifted the industry’s landscape—provide an excellent case study for anyone asking how this game-changing can fit into their operations.

Join us as we discuss:

• The vital role of governance in AI adoption and implementation
• How to think beyond point solutions
• The “build vs. buy” question
• Why leaders need to strive for alignment and prioritization

Negotiations don’t have to lead to one-sided solutions or unfavorable compromises. In fact, when it comes to effective strategy execution and revenue operations, they shouldn’t!

This week, we’re joined by George DeVardo, VP of Revenue Operations and Strategy at Enthusiast Gaming, who shares his belief in the value of trust and understanding when working toward solutions between decision-makers and team members—whether you’re working within an organization or assisting as a third-party. We also explore how third parties can provide valuable perspectives to help a team arrive at a workable and timely solution, rather than making decisions for them as a subject matter expert.

Join us as we discuss:

• The concept of the best alternative to a negotiated agreement (BATNA)
• Why it’s important to be able to say “No” when developing strategy
• Clarity and prioritization in the planning process
• The difference between internal and external negotiations

Today’s episode features an in-person one-on-one conversation between Joe and Jonathan as they trade thoughts on common mistakes that leaders make in strategy execution, as well as the consequences of those mistakes. Using the news of some costly missteps (and even more costly blame-shifting) from entertainment executives as a jumping-off point, the co-hosts cover everything from effective communication to smart prioritization.

Join Jonathan and Joe as they discuss:

• Closing the feedback loop, even if you’re not using the feedback
• Leaders being fully present and participatory whenever possible
• Considering the perspectives of team members at every level of the organization

The Secrets to Building & Maintaining an All-Star team…

Today we get to sit down with Eric Patten, EVP of Operations at Kingstree, as he takes us through his personal approach to team building and increasing productivity. Eric’s 31 years of experience in nursing helps in his unique role to build effective teams and create long-term relationships with clients. Hear more about how Eric strategically builds and assesses teams, handles workplace turnover, responds to feedback, and approaches customer service.

Join as we discuss:

• Assessing Team Fit in Projects
• Team Building and Turnover in the Workplace
• Communication, Feedback, and Teamwork in Customer Service
• Leadership, Positivity, and Mentorship in Healthcare

The healthcare industry is vast and organizations and companies within it are equally as large. Navigating change, especially recent paradigm shifts towards value-based care, can be fraught with challenges for leadership and employees.

Joining our hosts, Jonathan and Joe, for this episode is Teresa Patterson, Strategy and Growth Leader. She has rich experience in navigating the shift from fee-for-service to value-based care, and the critical role leadership plays in fostering a culture of change and effective communication within healthcare organizations. Where do you even start?

Teresa, Joe, and Jonathan walk us through:

• The challenges and strategies in the healthcare industry's transition from a fee-for-service model to value-based care.
• The nuances of change management, including leadership's role, effective communication, and the vital involvement of employees in the change process.
• Insights into the art of balancing empathy and accountability in healthcare leadership, with motivation strategies, organizational behavior considerations, and the connection of frontline employees to broader organizational goals.

Today we’re joined by Adam Sidoti, VP of Revenue Operations at Redwood Logistics, who believes data should lead the conversation, but it needs to be complemented by deeper conversation and empirical evidence to get the full picture. He draws on his background as a Lawyer to highlight the significance of understanding personality profiles and organizational philosophies in creating successful teams. From leveraging data to shape narratives, to managing exits and repositioning individuals, this episode offers valuable insights into talent management and organizational effectiveness.

Join as we discuss:

• Importance of Data-Driven Decision Making
• Human Resources and Organizational Decisions
• Hiring and Organizational Roles
• Individual Personality and Role Fit
• Relying on Data and Trusting Instincts

Everyone wants to claim data-driven success these days and knows that data is important to building and executing successful strategies- but how do we successfully incorporate data into planning and execution?

In this episode, Will Ritchings, Director of Revenue Strategy and Operations at SecurityScorecard, joins Joe and Jonathan to dissect the challenges of data management, share his insights on effective dashboard design, and unravel the key elements for building a successful data strategy.

Join us as they get deep into:

• The crucial interplay of context in data analysis, preventing misinterpretations and fostering informed decision-making.
• Strategies for effective dashboard creation, emphasizing the need for balance and tailored approaches based on diverse audience needs.
• Insights into building a successful data strategy, from prioritizing goals to communicating the time and effort involved.

Strategy consulting is a big industry- but how can it work for you when the path from strategic planning to execution has so many nuances particular to each industry and company?

Before Daniel Goldstein became Director of Strategy and Operations at Array, he spent over eight years working as a consultant in innovation and incubation. This is when he honed his skills and passion for strategy execution, helping fortune 500 companies develop and launch new businesses. He shares his experience from that time and how to best put the right ideas into motion.

Jonathan, Joe and Daniel discuss:

• The delicate balance between prioritizing ideas in startups and aligning large corporate teams for execution
• Insights into hiring strategy consultants and vetting candidates effectively
• How to engage in strategic planning with a focus on adaptability and customized frameworks

Visual storytelling is critical to so much success in branding, but how can these same concepts aid us in strategy planning?

In this episode, Gary Comerford shares his unique background in art and painting, unveiling the profound impact it has on his strategic approach and the transformative power of storytelling in the digital age. We also explored how the integration of diverse skill sets can play a crucial role in strategic leadership and collaboration in organizational success.

Discussed in this episode:

• The relationship between art and strategy, emphasizing the significance of storytelling and visual communication in strategic visioning
• Merging engineering and artistic skill sets for innovative problem-solving
• How collaboration can often be overlooked in successful strategy execution and transformation

How can the path least taken spur innovation in a career? And can it help in strategic planning at the operational level?

Alanna Hughes, Head of Innovation at Per Scholas, discusses her remarkable career path spanning international development and consulting, culminating in leadership roles in the nonprofit sector. Alanna shares the invaluable skills and experiences that have empowered her to drive innovation, emphasizing the importance of diverse learning approaches, embracing experimentation, and the strategic design and execution of initiatives along the way.

Discussed in this episode:

• The significance of embracing experimentation and learning from unique experiences in fostering personal and organizational growth during the innovation process
• The exploration of intrapreneurship as a driving force for change, highlighting the development of skills like emotional intelligence, relationship building, and strategic design and execution within organizations to catalyze innovation
• How a diverse career path can lead to roles in innovation and leadership

In today’s episode, Joe and Jonathan speak with Strategy & Revenue Operations Leader Lester Ang about the crucial balance between big-picture strategy and detailed work in strategy and revenue operations. A seasoned strategy and revenue operations advisor with a robust background in global teams and growth transformation, Lester brings no shortage of insights when it comes to effective leadership transitions and the role of listening, understanding, and adaptability to gain trust and credibility within any organization.

Join us as we discuss:

• How understanding people’s backgrounds helps when transitioning from an analyst role to a manager role
• Striking a balance between considering a variety of opinions with asserting one’s expertise and experience
• What challenges arise when it comes to incentivizing individuals in cost centers 
• When to zoom in on the details vs. when to zoom out for a broader view

It’s already nearing the end of 2023 and we are here to help you kick off your 2024 organizational planning.

We are doing something a little different this episode to help our listeners start to think through their strategic planning as the year comes to a close. Our hosts Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause, together with seasoned expert Lindsay LeFaivre, share valuable strategies and experiences they have learned during their combined years in the field.

Together they delve into the importance of dedicated time for annual planning, involving stakeholders in decision-making, and adapting plans to changing business dynamics. Our listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to enhance your annual planning process and drive success for your organization.

Don’t miss our suggestions and tips on:

• Navigating the intricacies of annual planning for organizations and the importance of retrospectives
• Crafting effective KPIs and metrics for a comprehensive performance evaluation.
• Learning from planning mistakes, optimizing time allocation, and prioritizing effective communication in organizational development
• Practical advice on group decision-making dynamics, and embracing effective communication

Embarking on a successful organizational strategy goes beyond what meets the eye.

While strategy, innovation, and change management are vital, they often remain obscured beneath more tangible organizational outcomes. Leaders must dig deep to comprehend the mechanics that drive a staggering 80% of outcomes. Deborah Roethler, an Innovative Change Manager with experience with companies like Amazon, Caterpillar, the City of Peoria and more, advocates a fluid approach to strategy, adapting to the evolving landscape rather than adhering rigidly to predetermined plans.

Join us as we unravel the intricacies of organizational strategy and discuss:

• The detrimental impact of overlooking hidden organizational dynamics
• Strategies for effective employee engagement, trust-building, and change management
• Building an adaptive strategy that fosters transparency, agility, and active participation for sustained organizational growth

Strategic plan management can be the deciding factor between a boom or a bust for your organization.

Managing execution and minimizing day-to-day distractions is crucial for successful organizational growth. A key way to accomplish this is is by building a best-in-class leadership team with remarkable talent for the appropriate stage. But evolving strategies, and evolving leadership styles, can be a challenge during stages of growth. Mark Flickinger, General Partner and COO at BIP Ventures, shares tips for building a top-tier team and executing a strategic plan that adapts with organizational growth.

Join us as we discuss:

• Building a successful team in a tough labor market
• Aligning team expertise through organizational phases
• Formulating a laser-focused strategic plan while minimizing distractions

It’s not a secret — your organization needs collaboration, communication, and streamlined execution for strategy to succeed. But getting to a point where all three of these aspects are effective can be challenging.

To bridge the divide between leadership and enabling teams to collectively achieve goals, there has been a rise in the instrumental role of Chief of Staff. Once limited to political and healthcare industries, companies from every sector are integrating this position and seeing major benefits. We’re joined by Jordan Gadd, Chief of Staff at Heluna Health, who discusses his experiences in the role and how you can implement the position to create impactful movement and growth within your organization.

Join us as we discuss:

• The pivotal role of the Chief of Staff in facilitating collaboration, communication and execution
• Building flexibility and adaptability into your leadership for impactful execution
• The power of authentic storytelling and effective communication

It can be difficult to implement a strategic plan when it’s filled with an unstable, impossible, and frustrating amount of initiatives. The consequences are losing the richness of what your team is successful at and spreading themselves too thin.

But it doesn’t have to be that way!

We’re joined by Brenda Merritt, Dean, Faculty of Health, and Suzie Officer, Executive Director, Planning and Strategy, Faculty of Health at Dalhousie University. We dove deep into how to manage and execute strategic plans that are thoughtfully focused on balancing strategic priorities, while also being doable and exciting for teams.

Join us as we discuss:

• The value of prioritizing important elements within the strategic plan, including taking the extra time to identify the key stakeholders
• The importance of presenting the strategic plan as a team plan and not as an individual one, actively listening to your team members, and how to develop a supportive company culture that influences strategy execution.
• Unexpected challenges and how to lean on your team to create solutions that encourage smooth execution.

Building a strategy is very different than executing one — great execution of an average strategy is far more valuable than average (or poor) execution of a perfect strategy.

In this episode, we spoke with Joe Rafter, Vice President at Capgemini, who shared the key ingredients for a successful business strategy: authentic leadership, tailored action, resilience, and self-awareness. When leaders embrace these traits, they can help any business through the toughest transformations.

Join us as we discuss:

• Tailoring actions based on an understanding of the difference between strategy development and execution
• What authentic leadership looks like and why it’s critical
• Mental toughness, self-awareness, and resilience as necessities for transformation

Business leaders spend months ideating and developing the perfect strategy—but when it comes time to operationalize, companies often back down, tucking the corporate strategy away until the following year.

We’re joined by Candice Williams, Strategy Manager at the Development Bank of Jamaica who dives into her hands-on experience in designing and successfully implementing organizational strategies.

Join us as we discuss:

• The importance and role of strategy, common pitfalls, and how to avoid them
• The vital role of cascading sessions in the cultural integration of strategy
• Ways to monitor results and drive accountability

Coming soon from AchieveIt... A new show about the space between savvy strategy and practical execution — and everything that can go wrong on the way.

When it comes to navigating turbulence and developing strategy in the face of challenges, few industries are more weathered than education. With how quickly education standards and practices are evolving—and how many stakeholders are involved—it’s hard to think of many areas that have more lessons to offer to all manner of strategists.

This week, Larkin Briley, Assistant Vice President of Strategy and Transformation at Belmont University, speaks with Joe and Jonathan about how higher education is navigating turbulent times, including the looming "enrollment cliff" and the decreasing perceived value of degrees. Larkin shares his insights on strategic planning and adaptation, highlighting the use of the OKR framework to align goals and emphasize impactful outcomes.
Join us as we discuss:

• Effective methodologies for setting priorities and measurable outcomes
• Balancing qualitative and quantitative measurements in strategic planning
• The importance of embracing fast iteration and learning from failure

For humans, the fear of change is so real and pervasive that there’s a word for it: metathesiophobia. Even if you didn’t know about this clinical term until now, you’re probably aware that organizations and teams of all types suffer from a fear of change—especially because there’s no shortage of examples of change being implemented ineffectively due to poor strategy or leadership.

In today’s episode, Joe and Jonathan are joined by Lindsey Joerger, Senior Director of Strategy Implementation at USP, who shares her insights on leading without authority and driving effective change management in the realm of strategy. 

Join us as we discuss:

• How to manage change while preserving core organizational values and practices
• The stages of change implementation: storming, forming, and norming
• Crucial elements for building trust within an organization to effectively implement change 
• The need to crystallize a shared vision and goal among team members

This week, hosts Joe Krause (SVP of Strategy Consulting at AchieveIt) and Jonathan Martin (VP of Revenue Operations and Head of Marketing at AchieveIt) have a wide-ranging conversation on how to integrate brainstorming into the strategy process. From dos and don’ts to challenges and benefits, Joe and Jonathan cover how all manner of organizations—especially those looking to pivot or shake things up at the year’s halfway mark—can not only generate great ideas and solicit vital contributions from their entire team, but proceed to put those ideas into game-changing action.

Join as we discuss:

• How diverse perspectives enhance the brainstorming and decision-making processes within organizations
• The role of incentives in aligning strategic plans
• Fostering a more open and effective idea-sharing culture through pre-work and individual brainstorming
• The importance of stress testing when developing and executing strategies

If you want outside-the-box thinking, it pays to spend some time living outside the box that is conventional strategy and corporate structure.

This week’s guest, Daniel Keene, Director of Strategy & Operations, has taken an unconventional route to his current role in healthcare overseeing the operations and strategy of large patient support systems—with stops along the way in aerospace engineering, CPG sales management, and general aviation. Daniel has leveraged these experiences to transform fragmented strategy and operation models into unified and efficiently executed visions. Throughout our conversation, Daniel shares his insights on some of the easily-forgotten project management fundamentals and core strategy principles, along with some high-level learnings he’s discovered during his time in healthcare.

Join us as we discuss:

• Focusing on a select few critical goals rather than spreading resources too thinly across numerous objectives
• The attributes of effective project management offices (PMOs)
• How to enhance project tracking through integrating qualitative and quantitative data for comprehensive progress insight
• The importance of allocating time during meetings to discuss next steps

When we think about strategy, we usually picture two groups: those who come up with high-level vision, and those who execute that vision through a strategy. But how do we actually get from ideation to execution? And who’s responsible for seeing that through?

Shobhna Upadhyaya, BizOps & Strategy Leader, joins the podcast to talk about business operations (aka BizOps), which she explains as the team responsible for that important middle phase between strategy development and implementation. In demystifying BizOps, strategy leaders across industries can find themselves better equipped to cultivate cross-functional collaboration and overcome challenges within corporate structures and strategy.

Join us as we discuss:

• How to maintain objectivity while being embedded in a specific line of business or functional area
• Strategies for building trust and influence without authority
• Balancing one-on-one conversations and group discussions to foster cooperation and resolve conflicts
• The value of clear ownership and definition of roles in the strategy development process

Given how dynamic and complex our world is, there’s no place for rigid and siloed approaches to strategy.

This week, Michael Olaye, SVP and Managing Director of Strategy and Innovation at R/GA, shares his thoughts on developing strategy from a starting-point of flexibility and collaboration. While internal processes and expertise play a vital role in achieving an organization’s goals, too often teams miss out on game-changing solutions and methodologies by refusing to collaborate with outside agencies and industries that provide invaluable perspectives and insights. Michael, Joe, and Jonathan share personal experiences and dissect some useful case studies that illustrate why partnership and agility should be at the core of strategy development.

Join us as we discuss:

• The evolution of strategy over the years
• When it's more advantageous to pursue an internal development versus an external partnership
• Bringing users into the product and strategy development process
• How small companies can have massive impacts on much larger organizations

Notes: Link to Ted Talk discussed during the episode --> https://www.ted.com/talks/knut_haanaes_two_reasons_companies_fail_and_how_to_avoid_them/transcript

Sometimes a strategy fails because it’s a poor strategy. But sometimes it fails because it’s not really a strategy at all.

So what are the attributes of a strategy—and how does it differ from other measures implemented to help an organization achieve its goals? Joining us to answer this question (and many others) is Dr. Alok Tewari, Vice President of Operations Strategy and Execution. Alok has leveraged over 20 years of experience in strategy and global business transformations to cultivate an understanding of organizational goals and the multilayered approach to developing strategy within a variety of industries.

Join us as we discuss:

• Separating an organization’s operational aspects from its strategic actions
• Implementing technology for strategic ends—even in legacy industries
• How (and when) to recognize and admit when a strategy needs to be abandoned 
• Communication and alignment across departments to effectively implement strategy

Who’s actually accountable in your strategic plan? If your answer includes more than one name… that might be the root of your execution problems. In this episode of The Strategy Gap, hosts Jonathan Morgan (SVP of Operations at AchieveIt) and Joe Krause (SVP of Strategy Consulting) tackle one of the most misunderstood pillars of execution: accountability.

From the danger of group-think to the power of visibility and recognition, they dig into what really moves teams from idea to impact. With relatable stories (hello, MBA group projects) and practical advice, this episode is packed with insights for anyone tired of watching plans stall due to unclear ownership and disengaged teams.

Why you’ll want to listen:

• Learn the “fire drill test” to identify true ownership in your plans
• Understand how public progress tracking can boost engagement across the org
• Discover low-cost ways to create accountability through recognition
• Hear how leaders can tailor accountability structures to different employee types

👉 Hit play and close the gap between strategy and execution. Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes!

Collaboration isn’t just a buzzword — it’s the backbone of strategy execution.

In this episode of The Strategy Gap, hosts Jonathan Morgan (SVP of Operations) and Joe Krause (SVP of Strategy Consulting) dig into why so many organizations say they value collaboration but still fail to practice it. From breaking down silos to running meetings that don’t suck, they share real-world lessons (and hard truths) about what it takes to turn big plans into real progress. With 77% of leaders saying silos hold them back — and 79% of failed initiatives pointing to poor collaboration — this episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to get strategy over the finish line.

Whether you're leading a strategy team or sitting in cross-functional meetings wondering why progress stalls, this conversation is full of relatable moments, tactical tips, and a healthy dose of humor. Learn how to structure collaboration so it actually works, without overwhelming your calendar — or your team. 

🎧 Why you’ll want to listen:

• Learn how to set expectations so planning conversations don’t derail.
• Hear how access and awareness are more powerful than more meetings.
• Get tips to run productive, high-impact meetings your team won’t dread.
• Find out why most plans fail — even when collaboration is “part of the strategy.”

In this episode of The Strategy Gap, hosts Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause are joined by Tino Mantella, a seasoned executive with vast experience across industries including nonprofits, technology, and government. Tino shares his insights on the critical elements of strategic planning, the power of conscious capitalism, and the importance of aligning organizational culture with leadership goals.

From balancing top-down and bottom-up approaches to developing performance standards that drive real results, Tino’s approach to strategy is both refreshing and practical.Tune in to discover how Tino has navigated complex organizational challenges and how his unique perspectives can help leaders bridge the gap between strategy creation and execution.


Why You’ll Want to Tune In:

• Learn how to effectively balance top-down and bottom-up input in strategic planning.
• Discover the principles of “conscious capitalism” and how it can boost engagement and purpose.
• Get tips on developing performance standards that guide, rather than punish, teams.
• Hear practical advice on building alliances within your organization to make strategic decisions stick.
• Explore ways to foster a culture that aligns with and supports strategic goals.

In this episode of The Strategy Gap, hosts Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause interview Abhay Jain, VP of Strategy and Business Development at A+E Networks. They explore strategy creation, innovation, and execution in various organizations, emphasizing the importance of solving real problems to attract the right talent for startups.

Abhay shares insights on commercial real estate, focusing on lifestyle and startup incubation, and highlights the need for customer-centric strategies. The conversation covers planning horizons, fostering innovation while avoiding the "hippo effect," and the cultural differences between startups and large corporations. Abhay also offers advice on career flexibility and adapting to new opportunities. Tune in for practical insights on strategic planning and innovation!
Why you'll want to tune in:

• Discover unique strategies from top experts who share tips for overcoming common business challenges and fostering innovation.
• Learn from case studies and stories across industries that highlight successful strategic planning and innovation.
• Find practical tips and tactics you can apply in your organization to drive growth and enhance adaptability in today's changing markets.

In Episode 31 of The Strategy Gap, hosts Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause speak with with Eric Schurr, Chief Strategy Officer at Sunrise Banks. Eric brings over two decades of experience leading financial services organizations through transformational change and has extensive expertise in fintech, digital banking, strategy development, and leadership.

Together, they look at how Eric's extensive experience offers innovative insights for driving customer value. They over how diverse perspectives can drive strategic success and why a human-centered approach is crucial for effective technology implementation. Whether you're a business leader seeking sustainable growth strategies or simply passionate about future trends, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to inspire and motivate you.

Why Tune In?

• Learn how strategic foresight can go beyond analytics to prepare your organization for future challenges.
• Discover real-life examples of technology that genuinely adds value and enhances customer experiences.
• Be inspired by stories and scenarios that highlight the importance of collaboration and adaptive strategies for growth.

In this episode:

00:00 Bridging Strategy Creation and Execution for Leaders

04:43 Apple's Financial Services and Strategic Efficiency

06:47 Energy Company's Foresight: Anticipating Tesla's Disruptive Potential

11:47 Incorporating Pandemic Preparedness in Strategic Planning

14:07 Disruption in Traditional Real Estate: Changing Business Models

19:35 Harnessing Foresight for Strategic and Innovative Success

23:16 Holistic Impact of Technology on Human Life

27:27 European Grocery Chains Introduce Community-Focused Slow Checkout Lanes

28:30 Trader Joe's: A Community-Focused and Enjoyable Shopping Experience

31:47 Anticipating Future Podcasts: Appreciating Valuable Insights

In this episode of The Strategy Gap, Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause sit down with Isha Dhar, a talented leader currently heading Global Sales Strategy and Operations for Netflix's new ads platform. With over 15 years of experience in sales operations, business development, and analytics at big names like Meta Platforms and Dell Technologies, Isha offers a treasure trove of insights. She’s got an MBA from UNC and an engineering degree from India, and she’s now based in Austin, Texas.

The conversation kicks off with Isha sharing why sales operations is so vital. She highlights its close connection to business metrics and customer needs. Isha’s passion for her field shines through—she got into sales operations almost by chance, and those experiences have been incredibly rewarding. She underscores the importance of data-driven insights for making strategic decisions and aligning sales strategies with the broader business goals.

Another big topic of discussion is how to handle failure with a “fail fast” mindset. Isha emphasizes learning from mistakes to continually improve processes. She also talks about the importance of cross-functional collaboration, urging listeners to break down silos within organizations so strategies can be executed effectively across departments. Drawing from her diverse experiences, she notes how approaches can vary depending on corporate culture and the growth stage of an organization.

Before wrapping up, Isha shares some great leadership tips: trust your instincts, build solid relationships, and prioritize data-driven decisions. These principles have been key to her success and are sure to resonate with anyone looking to grow in their career.

In this episode:

00:00 Passionate About Understanding and Influencing Business Success

05:45 Variations in Sales Operations: Revenue, Planning, Execution Strategies

07:02 Key to Success: Right Jobs, Data-Driven Insights

11:39 Turning Failure into a Learning Opportunity in Leadership

16:20 Evaluating Data to Set Precedents for Business Interests

19:21 The Importance of Building Relationships and Effective Communication

22:31 Embracing Good Intentions in Every Conversation

24:29 Impact of Organizational Structure on Decision-Making and Collaboration

27:58 Trusting the Process: Embracing Growth and Learning

Jonathan and Joe sit down with Cheryl Farr, founder of Signal Brand Innovation, for a powerful deep dive into what makes or breaks a brand. Drawing from her work with giants like Nike and Coca-Cola, Cheryl reveals why true brand leadership goes far beyond logos and slogans—it’s about staying authentic to your core values.
 
From Minnetonka Moccasins’ rebranding success to Allbirds’ missteps, and a conversation about Southwest Airlines, this episode uncovers the real challenges and triumphs in brand strategy. Cheryl’s bold insights on brand filters and leadership-driven authenticity will have you rethinking how strategy and branding intertwine. If you care about brand loyalty and leadership, you won’t want to miss this one!

In this episode:

• 00:00 - Apple's Brand Strategy: Consistent Perception Management
• 6:05 - How Consistent Brand Connection Cultivates Customer Loyalty
• 10:16 - Balancing Brand Loyalty with Leadership Decisions in Organizations
• 12:38 - Employee Engagement: Key to External Brand Success
• 15:04 - Starbucks CEO's Daily Commute by Private Jet
• 18:13 - The Crucial Role of CEO Integrity in Brand Longevity and Reinvention
• 23:27 - Finding Your Brand's True, Meaningful, and Different Filters
• 24:45 - Company Reassesses Identity to Innovate Future Strategy
• 29:02 - Using Brand as a Vision Tool for Future Commitment
• 32:24 - Advice for Your Younger Strategy Practitioner Self

In this episode of The Strategy Gap, we dive into the first pillar of the 2025 State of Strategy Execution Report: Alignment and Leadership. Hosts Jonathan Morgan, SVP of Operations at AchieveIt, and Joe Krause, SVP of Strategy Consulting, break down why so many strategic plans crumble at the top—and what leaders can do to reverse course. From lackluster vision statements to inconsistent communication, this episode challenges leadership teams to reflect on whether they’re truly setting the tone for success.

Whether you're leading a strategy rollout, trying to gain cross-functional alignment, or wondering why your team isn’t rallying behind your vision—this episode is a must-listen. Jonathan and Joe blend years of hands-on consulting experience with data-backed insights from over 250 strategy leaders across industries. 

✅ Why You’ll Want to Listen:

• Discover the top 5 reasons strategic plans fail—and how nearly all of them trace back to leadership
• Learn how to create a communication strategy that drives long-term engagement (not just a flashy launch)
• Find out how “How” and “Why” questions can realign disconnected teams
• Hear real-world examples of what strong leadership alignment looks like in action

👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and catch the full State of Strategy Execution series as we explore each pillar in upcoming episodes!

Are you actually executing your strategy—or just making plans that collect dust? In this episode of The Strategy Gap, we dive into the key findings from the 2025 State of Strategy Execution report and break down what separates high-performing organizations from the rest. Hosting the conversation are Jonathan Morgan, SVP of Operations at AchieveIt, and Joe Krause, SVP of Strategy Consulting, two of AchieveIt's seasoned strategy experts.

We explore the biggest roadblocks companies face, the role of leadership in execution, and how consistent updates, clear accountability, and the right technology can drive 10X better outcomes. Whether you're leading a team or driving strategy at an executive level, this episode will give you practical, no-nonsense insights to level up your execution game.

Why you’ll want to listen:

• The 5 critical factors that determine whether your strategy will succeed or fail
• Why measuring activity ≠ measuring success—and how to track real impact
• How real-time dashboards make organizations 10X more likely to achieve their goals
• The #1 leadership mistake that’s killing strategy execution (and how to fix it)

Find the full 2025 State of Strategy Execution here: https://www.achieveit.com/resources/2025-state-of-strategy-execution/


Key Topics with Timestamps:

00:00 Insights from 2025 Strategy Execution Survey
06:05 Effective Success Metrics and Updates
09:01 Strategic Planning for Leaders
10:24 Process Adherence for Improved Clarity
13:09 The Impact of Losing Corporate Vision
17:41 Transforming Plans into Action
21:02 Impact of Strategic Isolation on Business
24:44 Engaging Future Leaders Effectively
26:59 Governance Guide: Clarifying Plan Engagement
31:06 Real-Time Dashboards Enhance Strategy Performance
33:52 Optimizing Dashboard Utilization
38:40 The Value of Strategic Planning
39:28 Reaffirming Strategic Communication Essentials

How do you transition from commodities trading to leading strategy at a global mental health company?

Mark Muston, Head of Business Operations & Strategy at Modern Health, shares how he made the leap, why hiring for potential matters more than a perfect resume, and how to pitch leadership like a startup founder. If you’re in strategy, operations, or just trying to build a team that actually gets things done—this episode is for you. In this conversation, Mark breaks down what it takes to build cross-functional initiatives, advocate for your team in a cost-center role, and make strategic decisions that drive real impact. Plus, he shares valuable lessons on navigating career transitions and knowing when (and how) to push for change.

🎧 Why you’ll want to listen:

• The #1 hiring mistake leaders make—and how to find the best talent beyond the resume.
• Why your resume should tell a data-driven story (and how to craft one that stands out).
• The “VC mindset” for getting leadership buy-in and securing resources for strategic initiatives.
• How to balance small quick wins with big ROI projects in strategy and operations.

Key Timestamps:

00:00 Transitioning from Trading to Business Development
03:46 Journey to Modern Health Leadership
07:04 Aligning Career with Purpose
10:52 Reevaluating Hiring Standards in Healthcare
14:57 Assessing Ambition Through Resume Signals
18:02 Lessons Learned: Trading to Tech Transition
20:32 Prioritizing Business Problem Solving
25:56 Navigating Startup Challenges and Flexibility
26:49 Aligning Projects with Business Priorities
31:29 Manual MVP Testing and Scaling
34:03 Prioritizing Impact Over Busywork


Listen now to The Strategy Gap! 

Can a startup stay agile while scaling—and still innovate?

In this episode of The Strategy Gap, we're joined by Dave McMullin, Chief Strategy Officer at Anumana, to dive into the balancing act of startup strategy. With experience spanning biotech giants and high-growth startups, Dave shares his insights on aligning long-term vision with short-term wins, keeping innovation alive while building structure, and staying disciplined in execution. Whether you're leading a startup, scaling a business, or navigating strategic growth, this conversation is packed with actionable insights.

Why you'll want to listen:

• How to balance long-term strategy with real-time pivots in a fast-moving company
• The key to scaling without stifling innovation or creativity
• A simple yet powerful tactic to ensure strategy doesn’t get lost in daily operations
• What startups can learn from big corporations—and what they should leave behind

Listen now to The Strategy Gap and get expert insights from Dave McMullin!

Ready to uncover the secrets to true organizational alignment and long-term strategic success? In this episode of The Strategy Gap, we’re joined by Ken Sagendorf, Chief Strategy Officer at True Alignment and host of the True Alignment Podcast. With decades of experience as a strategic leader, innovator, and educator, Ken brings unparalleled insights into bridging the gap between strategy creation and execution.

From the importance of embracing a generalist mindset to understanding the emotions driving workplace behaviors, Ken challenges us to rethink how we approach leadership, alignment, and change. Whether you’re a business leader, strategist, or someone passionate about fostering collaboration, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways you won’t want to miss.Why You’ll Want to Listen:

• Discover why generalists are the ultimate gap-bridgers and how they create value across organizations.
• Learn how to address emotions and values as the key to fostering true alignment in your team.
• Find out why strategy is a long-haul process and how trust and openness drive success.
• Explore Ken’s concept of quantum alignment and how personal and professional values intersect.

What does it take to turn strategy into real, actionable results? In this episode of The Strategy Gap, Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause sit down with Dave Parker, Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer at Evergreen Life Services. With decades of experience in both for-profit and nonprofit sectors, Dave shares his unique insights on blending innovation, collaboration, and strategic clarity. From his groundbreaking "Mission Money Matrix" to lessons learned the hard way, Dave offers a fresh perspective on how organizations can align mission and impact with measurable outcomes.Tune in as

Dave reveals how trust, shared language, and a human-centered approach are essential for engaging teams and driving strategic success—whether you’re leading a small division or managing a complex, multi-state organization.Why You’ll Want to Listen:

• Discover the "Mission Money Matrix," a decision-making framework that balances mission impact with financial sustainability.
• Learn why trust and a shared language are foundational for strategy execution.
• Hear how John Wooden’s advice—“Be quick but don’t hurry”—applies to leadership and teamwork.
• Get practical tips for engaging your team and aligning daily work with strategic objectives.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation with Dave Parker, packed with takeaways to help you bridge the gap between strategy creation and execution!

In this episode of The Strategy Gap, hosts Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause sit down with Tonjia Coverdale, Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer for Operations and Technology at Associated Bank. With over 25 years of experience in technology and strategic leadership, Tonjia brings a unique perspective on how organizations can elevate technology from a back-office function to a powerful enabler of business growth. Her dual expertise in academia and industry offers valuable insights for leaders looking to align strategy with execution.

Join us as we explore how to bridge the gap between technology and business strategy, with practical advice and real-world examples from Tonjia\u2019s extensive career. From celebrki7ating technology wins in ways that resonate with stakeholders to aligning tech initiatives with overarching business goals, this episode is packed with insights for leaders at every level. Whether you're a business executive or a technology professional, you\u2019ll walk away with actionable ideas to foster collaboration, optimize strategies, and unlock the full potential of your organization\u2019s technology investments.Why You\u2019ll Want to Listen:

• Discover why technology should be viewed as a strategic enabler, not just a cost center.
• Learn how to celebrate tech wins by translating them into measurable business value.
• Understand the importance of aligning technology initiatives with top-level business goals.
• Get actionable tips on building collaboration between technologists and business leaders.

What makes a business thrive in a constantly evolving world? According to Victor André Gamas Mayer, Managing Partner of Gamas Group, the answer lies in mindset, culture, and values. As the leader of a fourth-generation family business, Victor brings a unique perspective on balancing tradition with innovation.

In this episode of The Strategy Gap, hosts Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause explore how Gamas Group has sustained success by embracing family values while adopting a forward-thinking, global mindset.Victor shares powerful insights on the importance of hiring for cultural fit over technical expertise, fostering a culture of accountability, and maintaining a vision for growth that aligns with your company’s core principles. Whether your business operates locally or on an international scale, this episode is packed with practical lessons to help you align your strategy with impactful execution.

Why You'll Want to Listen:

• Learn how to adopt a global mindset to unlock new opportunities for growth.
• Discover why cultural fit and mindset often outweigh technical skills when hiring.
• Explore how family values can inform modern business strategies and success.
• Get actionable tips for creating a company culture rooted in care, responsibility, and accountability.