The Systems Thinker Show "Engineering Smarter Operations, One Episode at a Time" – Details, episodes & analysis

Make Other People Come to You—Use Bait if Necessary

You are the prize. Make others come to you instead of chasing after them. By establishing your own value, you create an environment where people are motivated to seek you out. This positions you as the authority, putting you in a position of strength where you can dictate terms and expectations.

Industry Trends and Leadership Insights: “Make Other People Come to You—Use Bait if Necessary”
Based on Law 8 from The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene

In manufacturing and supply chain, leaders are increasingly embracing authority positioning to attract clients, talent, and strategic partners. Instead of cold-pitching or price-cutting, organizations are creating value-rich ecosystems—such as knowledge centers, benchmarking tours, and proprietary technology platforms—that act as magnets. According to Deloitte’s 2024 Global Manufacturing Outlook, 61% of manufacturers are now investing in customer experience and knowledge-based differentiation to drive inbound interest, a shift away from transactional selling. The bait is insight, exclusivity, and demonstrable operational excellence.

In the medical and healthcare sectors, authority positioning is driving both patient trust and institutional collaboration. Leading hospital systems are publishing research and treatment outcomes to draw patients to them rather than relying solely on referrals or advertising. Telemedicine platforms like Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic have seen surges in engagement not by chasing patients, but by making expertise highly accessible and visibly authoritative. A 2023 Health Affairs study showed that patients are 47% more likely to choose providers who publish educational or clinical content tied to their specialty.

In engineering and science-based industries, the “come to us” dynamic is reshaping recruitment and innovation culture. Rather than aggressively pursuing every patent or partnership, leading firms are hosting innovation challenges, incubator competitions, and open-source collaborations that draw top talent and ideas into their orbit. Companies like Siemens and Lockheed Martin have adopted "innovation-as-bait" models, offering access to simulations, prototyping tools, or exclusive R&D grants to those who engage. This reinforces their position as hubs of influence, attracting contributors rather than chasing them.

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

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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

Project 2025's "Mandate for Leadership" outlines several policy changes that could significantly impact business operations in the coming years. Business owners should consider the following opportunities and challenges:

1. Tax Reforms: Potential reductions in corporate tax rates may increase after-tax profits, allowing for reinvestment and growth.  Wikipedia
2. Regulatory Changes: Streamlining of regulations could reduce compliance costs, particularly in industries like energy and manufacturing.  
3. Energy Sector Expansion: Eased restrictions on fossil fuel production may lower energy costs, benefiting energy-intensive businesses.  
4. Trade Policy Adjustments: Changes in trade agreements and tariffs could open new markets or alter competitive dynamics, necessitating strategic planning.  
5. Healthcare Policy Revisions: Modifications to healthcare regulations may affect employer-sponsored health plans, impacting employee benefits and costs.  

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

Conceal Your Intentions

Keeping your true plans hidden creates an air of unpredictability and mystery. If people are unsure of your goals, they are less likely to sabotage them or act against you. Concealment is a tool that allows you to move with freedom and adapt to changing circumstances without being encumbered by others' expectations

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

Never Put Too Much Trust in Friends, Learn How to Use Enemies

Friends can often be too familiar and not as objective. An enemy, however, has the potential to be far more useful because they’re motivated to prove themselves. Transforming an enemy into a useful ally is a strategic maneuver that will leave you with someone who understands your power dynamic and respects it.

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

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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

Project 2025's "Mandate for Leadership" outlines several policy changes that could significantly impact business operations in the coming years. Business owners should consider the following opportunities and challenges:

1. Environmental Conservation Funding: Reductions in conservation funding may affect businesses dependent on natural resources or eco-tourism.  
2. Defense Spending Adjustments: Increases in defense budgets could present opportunities for contractors and suppliers in the defense sector.  
3. Housing and Urban Development Policies: Changes may influence real estate markets and construction industries.  
4. Agricultural Policy Revisions: Adjustments could impact farming operations and agribusinesses.  
5. International Relations Shifts: Changes in foreign policy may open or restrict international business opportunities. 
6. Healthcare Regulatory Environment: Potential deregulation could affect healthcare product development and approval processes.  

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

Project 2025's "Mandate for Leadership" outlines several policy changes that could significantly impact business operations in the coming years. Business owners should consider the following opportunities and challenges:

1. Technology and Innovation Policies: Adjustments in funding and regulatory support for research and development could impact innovation opportunities.  
2. Immigration Policy Changes: Alterations to immigration laws may affect labor availability, particularly in industries reliant on immigrant workers.  Niskanen Center
3. Infrastructure Investment: Potential increases in infrastructure spending could create opportunities for businesses in construction and related sectors.  
4. Healthcare Industry Opportunities: Changes in healthcare policy might open new markets for healthcare providers and related businesses.  
5. Financial Sector Reforms: Deregulation in the financial industry could impact lending practices and access to capital.  Wikipedia
6. Environmental Conservation Funding: Reductions in conservation funding may affect businesses dependent on natural resources or eco-tourism.  
7. Defense Spending Adjustments: Increases in defense budgets could present opportunities for contractors and suppliers in the defense sector.  
8. Housing and Urban Development Policies: Changes may influence real estate markets and construction industries.  
9. Agricultural Policy Revisions: Adjustments could impact farming operations and agribusinesses.  
10. International Relations Shifts: Changes in foreign policy may open or restrict international business opportunities. 
11. Healthcare Regulatory Environment: Potential deregulation could affect healthcare product development and approval processes.  

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

Project 2025's "Mandate for Leadership" outlines several policy changes that could significantly impact business operations in the coming years. Business owners should consider the following opportunities and challenges:

1. Tax Reforms: Potential reductions in corporate tax rates may increase after-tax profits, allowing for reinvestment and growth.  Wikipedia
2. Regulatory Changes: Streamlining of regulations could reduce compliance costs, particularly in industries like energy and manufacturing.  
3. Energy Sector Expansion: Eased restrictions on fossil fuel production may lower energy costs, benefiting energy-intensive businesses.  
4. Trade Policy Adjustments: Changes in trade agreements and tariffs could open new markets or alter competitive dynamics, necessitating strategic planning.  
5. Healthcare Policy Revisions: Modifications to healthcare regulations may affect employer-sponsored health plans, impacting employee benefits and costs.  
6. Labor Law Reforms: Changes to labor laws could influence workforce management practices, including hiring, wages, and union interactions.  
7. Environmental Policy Shifts: Relaxation of environmental regulations may offer opportunities for expansion but could also affect public perception and market demand.  
8. Small Business Administration (SBA) Program Changes: Potential restructuring of the SBA might impact access to capital and support programs for small businesses.  Politico+2Home | Senate Democratic Leadership+2Project 2025+2
9. Education and Workforce Development: Shifts in federal education policies may affect workforce skill levels, influencing training needs and talent acquisition strategies.  
10. Technology and Innovation Policies: Adjustments in funding and regulatory support for research and development could impact innovation opportunities.  

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

Project 2025's "Mandate for Leadership" outlines several policy changes that could significantly impact business operations in the coming years. Business owners should consider the following opportunities and challenges:

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

 Always make those above you feel superior. If you make them feel insecure, you will spark resentment. Instead, allow them to take the credit for the work and stand by their accomplishments. The key is to make them feel good about themselves while you quietly advance behind the scenes. It’s about creating loyalty and avoiding any threats to their sense of power.

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

How does Sludge impact your business?

In the context of behavioral economics, a "nudge" refers to a subtle intervention designed to encourage people to make choices that are beneficial for them or society, while a "sludge" is a deliberate obstacle or barrier that makes a desired behavior more difficult or less appealing. Nudges aim to make good choices easier, while sludges make them harder

1. Cultural Impact in Manufacturing and Engineering:
In manufacturing and engineering, the distinction between sludge and nudge is becoming increasingly vital. “Sludge” in these sectors often manifests as bureaucratic work orders, convoluted safety signoffs, or overly complex standard operating procedures (SOPs) that slow down frontline productivity. By contrast, “nudges”—such as visual management cues, simplified digital checklists, or automatic maintenance reminders—have shown to improve compliance and reduce downtime. A 2024 McKinsey study found that manufacturers who implemented behavioral nudges in lean practices saw a 17% increase in operational efficiency compared to peers burdened with procedural sludge. The shift towards leaner behavioral design is a cultural necessity in a sector facing growing demands for agility and precision.

2. Economic and Supply Chain Transformation:
In economic terms, sludge introduces friction that inflates costs and delays decision-making. Across global supply chains, layers of approvals, redundant documentation, and siloed systems can paralyze responsiveness. A 2023 Deloitte report revealed that companies experiencing high administrative friction had 28% slower supplier onboarding times and 19% higher logistics costs. In contrast, companies using nudges—such as pre-approved vendor lists or dynamic restock triggers—achieved a 23% faster time-to-value in procurement cycles. As supply chains continue to face volatility through 2025 and 2026, businesses must adopt nudging strategies to eliminate friction and stay competitive in just-in-time and omni-channel fulfillment environments.

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