Breakfast Leadership Show
The Breakfast Leadership Show is a top 20 global podcast hosted by Michael D. Levitt. It features thought-provoking discussions with industry leaders, experts, and influencers, focusing on leadership, burnout prevention, workplace culture, and personal growth. The show provides listeners with actionable insights on improving productivity, fostering resilience, and enhancing well-being in both professional and personal life. Want to be a guest on the Breakfast Leadership Show? Send Michael Levitt a message on PodMatch here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/michaellevitt The Breakfast Leadership Show may include sponsored guest appearances, which means the guests may have provided financial compensation to participate in the podcast.
Episodes
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
Unlocking Purposeful Career Redesign: Lessons from Helen Hanison
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
You can find out more about Helen and take the ACT Type Quiz here:
https://www.helenhanison.com
Career Redesign Community: Actionable career redesign advice straight to your inbox. https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/822669/forms/124199513772525109
Helen’s first book, Unstuck: A Smart Guide to Purposeful Career Redesign. Get your copy (with special gifts) here:
https://www.helenhanisonbook.com
Purposeful Career Redesign: Explore the self-paced, online coaching course here:
https://helenhanison.thinkific.com
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-hanison-com
Monday Sep 09, 2024
Monday Sep 09, 2024
Dan Thomson founded Sensay in 2023, a leading platform for creating AI-based digital clones and a pioneer in digital immortality. He founded Sensay to develop solutions across a range of sectors, from healthcare to education, building a knowledge capture and share platform for the betterment of humanity.
Dan has a BA in Philosophy from King’s College London and an MBA from the University of Cambridge. He has authored two books to date: ‘Immortality in a Digital Age’ and ‘The Digital Afterlife’.
Summary
AI Digital Replicas and Personal Use
Michael and Dan discussed Dan's work in AI, specifically on creating lifelike digital replicas of people. Dan explained that this tool is helpful for anyone in business or personal life, as it can draft messages in one's style and voice with their knowledge base. Michael expressed interest in using this technology, noting that it made him think of aspects he hadn't considered before. The meeting was scheduled to last between 20 to 25 minutes.
Entrepreneurial Journey and Industry Insights
Dan shared his entrepreneurial journey from philosophy to the hospitality industry, including setting up restaurants and bars, before transitioning to tech after a severe concussion. He highlighted the high failure rate and competitiveness in hospitality but praised the industry for fostering hardworking, trustworthy, and creative individuals. Michael acknowledged AI's potential while also appreciating entrepreneurs' humble beginnings. They discussed the value of diverse skill sets and community experiences, like Michael's time at a grocery store, in recognizing people's needs for entrepreneurship.
Addressing Memory Loss and Sharing Stories
Michael expressed his concern about the loss of memory due to Alzheimer's or dementia and how it affects individuals and their loved ones. He suggested that technology could be used to record and share personal stories and experiences, which would be particularly valuable for those who have lost access to family members due to death. Dan agreed, sharing his own experience of memory loss and how it can be terrifying. He also mentioned that people with degenerative mental diseases are often advised to start a journal or life book to record their stories, but this can be difficult for the elderly.
Exploring AI Chatbots for Story Preservation
Dan discussed the potential of AI chatbots to learn from individuals and preserve their unique stories and experiences for future generations. He highlighted various use cases: education, preserving legacies, gaming, personal assistance, and brand marketing. Dan also mentioned the technology's ability to extend and empower individuals beyond their physical limitations. Michael agreed, emphasizing the technology's potential to free up time for humans to focus on human-to-human interactions, using Taylor Swift as an example.
Embracing AI for Global Collaboration and Growth
Michael discussed the potential for increased global collaboration and creativity, particularly in education and technology. He emphasized the importance of not fearing the impact of AI on jobs but rather embracing it as an opportunity for growth and innovation. Michael also shared his personal experience of tracing his ancestry back to the late 11 hundreds, which sparked his curiosity about the lives of his ancestors. He encouraged others to embrace AI and technology's opportunities rather than fearing them.
Exploring AI, Legacy, and Family Trees
Michael and Dan discussed the potential of using AI and technology to understand our future better and preserve our past. They highlighted the importance of recording personal stories and experiences for future generations despite concerns about privacy and security. Dan emphasized the opportunity to leave a legacy for those curious about our lives and experiences and the potential for future generations to learn from our knowledge and experiences. They also touched on the idea of interactive family trees and the possibility of communicating with ancestors. The conversation concluded with the idea that we live in a "golden age of technology" where we have the tools to record and preserve our stories for future generations.
Discussing Data Privacy and AI Character Development
Dan and Michael discussed the implications of recording and sharing personal data, with Michael advocating for the greater good and Dan highlighting the potential for misuse. They also touched on the importance of understanding different historical perspectives and the challenges of creating AI characters that reflect diverse personalities. Dan emphasized the potential of their platform to save time and improve efficiency, allowing users to focus on more critical tasks. They concluded by expressing excitement for the future of their project and its potential to revolutionize how people interact with technology.
Exploring Sensay's Products and Potential Benefits
Michael and Dan discussed Dan's company, Sensay, and its products.
Monday Sep 02, 2024
Mastering Dog Training with Ryan Wimpey, Owner of Tip Top K9
Monday Sep 02, 2024
Monday Sep 02, 2024
Summary
Ryan's Journey in Dog Training and Business
Michael and Ryan had a conversation about their shared love for dogs and Ryan's business, which trains and franchises dog trainers. Ryan shared his personal journey of rescuing a dog with behavioral issues, which sparked his passion for dog training. Michael, who has a wide audience of listeners, expressed his interest in learning from Ryan's experiences and lessons learned in business and life. They also discussed the importance of giving business opportunities to those with no experience, a topic that is relevant to both of their industries.
Disrupting Traditional Work: Exploring Franchise Opportunities
Michael and Ryan discussed the changing attitudes towards work, particularly among younger generations. Michael emphasized that many young people are dissatisfied with the traditional work setup and are considering starting their own businesses. Ryan proposed the idea of franchising as a viable alternative, offering the benefits of business ownership with the support of an established system. He shared examples of individuals with little business experience who have successfully become franchise owners, and how this model allows for a better work-life balance and increased income.
Franchising Benefits and Dog Training Business
Ryan and Michael discussed the benefits of franchising, using the example of a dog rescue and training business. Michael emphasized the appeal of working with animals and the potential for business growth with a franchise model. He also highlighted the value of having established templates and systems to focus on building the business. Ryan agreed, sharing his experience of increased demand for dog training services during the pandemic. Both noted the importance of hard work and dedication in any business venture.
Franchise Support, Training, and Community Impact
Ryan discussed the company's efforts to support franchisees, including providing systems and training. He highlighted the recent success story of a former call center employee who, after undergoing initial training and role play exercises, was able to replace her husband's income and bring their family together. Ryan also mentioned the company's partnership with local rescues to train dogs for free, aiming to help them get rehomed. Michael expressed appreciation for the positive impact the company's initiatives have on people's lives.
Finding Fulfillment in Work and Business
Michael and Ryan discussed the importance of finding fulfillment in one's work. Michael emphasized that having a positive impact on people's lives, whether it be through their business or personal pursuits, is crucial for long-term success and happiness. He also highlighted the significance of identifying what is important to oneself and aligning one's work with those values. Ryan agreed, noting that financial success without fulfillment can lead to burnout and a lack of motivation. Both praised the expansion of their respective businesses as a testament to their commitment to making a difference.
Franchisee Support and Business Growth
Ryan discussed the feedback received from franchisees after a training event, highlighting their desire for more support and guidance as they grow their businesses. Michael responded by advising franchisees to delegate tasks and find mentors before they feel ready, emphasizing that stepping out of one's comfort zone is necessary for growth. He also stressed the importance of learning from those who are a few years ahead and sharing insights and experiences. Both agreed that this approach could lead to personal and business development.
Embracing Challenges for Impactful Leadership
Michael and Ryan discussed the importance of pushing oneself beyond comfort zones to achieve greater impacts. Michael emphasized that fear is a natural response to challenges but should not deter individuals from pursuing significant accomplishments. Ryan agreed and highlighted the need for calm, confident leadership in both managing staff and rescuing dogs, as they both require clear guidance and positive reinforcement. They concluded that such leadership would prevent burnout and ensure staff retention, while also improving the well-being of the dogs in their care.
Tip Top K9 Franchise Opportunity Discussion
Ryan and Michael discussed ways for people to learn more about Ryan and his franchise opportunity at Tip Top K9. Michael agreed to include this information in the show notes of his podcast. Additionally, Michael shared his intention to expedite the release of his podcast episodes due to the current relevance of their content. He also mentioned his satisfaction with the quick turnaround and expressed his gratitude towards Ryan.
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I am Ryan Wimpey, owner of the 19 Tip Top K9 Dog training locations across the United States. We started up in 2008 and have continued to grow into a nationwide franchise across the country. Just like you, I am passionate about unwavering dedication, no shortcuts, and delivering quality results, but in my case, it's all about dogs and their owners.Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@TipTopK9Website - https://tiptopk9.com/about-tip-top-k9/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tiptopk9/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Tip-Top-K9-100063581240998/Tiktok - Tiptopk9
Thursday Aug 29, 2024
How Can You Provide The Best Education Possible To Your Students?
Thursday Aug 29, 2024
Thursday Aug 29, 2024
In this episode, we explore strategies for providing your students with the best education possible. We'll explore creating a positive learning environment that fosters growth and engagement [citation:3]. Our discussion will cover the importance of building strong relationships with students, setting high expectations, and using diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles.
We'll also examine the power of incorporating technology and podcasting into your classroom, discussing how these tools can enhance student learning and develop crucial 21st-century skills. Our expert guests will share practical tips on implementing project-based learning and encouraging student-led inquiries to promote critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Additionally, we'll address the significance of ongoing professional development for educators and how it directly impacts student success. Tune in to discover innovative approaches to assessment, feedback, and personalized learning that can revolutionize your teaching practice and help your students thrive academically and personally.
Article: https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/how-can-you-provide-the-best-education-possible-to-your-students
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Wednesday Aug 28, 2024
Gaps in the System: The New Album From Unmedicated Decisions
Wednesday Aug 28, 2024
Wednesday Aug 28, 2024
Summary
Michael's Call to Action and Musical Presentation
Michael expressed his frustration with the current state of affairs and emphasized the need for individuals to act to improve society. He referenced a book by Bruce Piasecki, urging listeners to read it and noting Piasecki's extensive experience and knowledge. Michael also presented three songs, each with a different message. The first, a heavy metal piece, addressed the current global conflicts and the need for understanding and common ground. The second, a lighthearted song, warned against petty crime, emphasizing that all crime is serious.
Michael's Lunch Order Decision and Responsibility
Michael shared a personal experience where he chose to pay for his lunch order instead of taking the food for free. He explained that he intended to support the restaurant and ensure it could continue operating. He emphasized the importance of paying for services, even when an opportunity for free food arises, to maintain a sense of responsibility and respect.
Fat Vegan" Song Theme Clarification
Michael discussed the theme of his next song, "Fat Vegan," which he clarified was not intended to make fun of obese or vegan individuals. Instead, he explained that the song was about the hypocrisy of people who advocate for others to follow certain lifestyles, such as veganism, without practicing it themselves. He emphasized the importance of personal growth and self-care, encouraging everyone to strive to be their best before attempting to influence others.
Michael's Album Meanings and Future Plans
Michael shared the meanings behind several songs from his album, including "Additional Parking in the Back," "Counterfeit Airbags," and "Not Braining Today." He also discussed the concept of "COVID fog" and revealed that future releases would be more theme-based, with the next one being a rap album. Michael explained that his diverse musical background, influenced by growing up in Detroit, led to the eclectic mix of songs on the album, and he shared personal experiences related to the songs.
Addressing Wealth Gaps and Tax System
Michael highlighted the existing gaps in the system that impede many people's access to resources, services, and opportunities. He emphasized the need for a system overhaul to address the growing wealth gap, suggesting a flat tax system. Michael expressed concern over the current tax system's complexity and impact on successful individuals' incentives to create and innovate. He noted that the system's inefficiency is a shared concern, regardless of political affiliations.
Michael's Personal Experiences and Embracing Challenges
Michael shared his experiences and opinions, emphasizing embracing life's challenges and finding the truth. He discussed his dual citizenship and passion for creating things, including the famous song "Gaps in the System," which pokes fun at various stereotypes. Michael encouraged listeners to provide feedback and engage with him on social media, particularly Instagram.
Album: Gaps in the System
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/album/gaps-in-the-system/1758105901
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1fxXb8GSvg341j4sqw9zxG?si=vp7XK9yfTe6f_lqslg4ZZw
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/artists/B0D9P8MHSZ?ref=dm_sh_lsRKqH5t6A5KFu6axnaIQ3TuN
YouTube: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_lpOZLIR6665qwYI2F5SY8Mx0anqMJvshE&si=IhM9O8CQrtqxs5CU
Website: https://www.unmedicateddecisions.com/
T-shirt: https://www.breakfastleadership.com/monthly-group/unisex-t-shirt
Saturday Aug 24, 2024
Saturday Aug 24, 2024
Sylvia is an EMCC-accredited senior executive coach with 30 years of experience, which helps C-Suite leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers thrive in today’s complex and fast-moving environment. She founded the SMART Power method, a groundbreaking approach to succeeding in this environment with more significant impact and ease.
Sylvia’s clients have included UNHCR, the European Central Bank, Allianz Global Investors, the Red Cross, and Amazon. She is also the author of the forthcoming book “Who’s in Charge,” a concise and practical book helping leaders to become more resilient and robust and combine success with fulfillment.
Sylvia holds a PhD in international relations and worked with the European Commission in the ‘90s, driving impactful change through her leadership skills and preventing a Russian hack on the IT systems. Following an experience in consulting, she joined the European Investment Bank (EIB) in 2003, introducing innovative HR and leadership development practices. In 2021, she transitioned to full-time work as an executive coach and leadership expert.
As a coach, she combines classical techniques with her unique flavor from her experiences as an artist, dancer, and singer – which helped her develop an embodied understanding of crucial leadership qualities such as presence, authenticity, connection, and clear communication.
On the podcast, Sylvia discusses:
The Smart Power leadership model and how it redefines power for success in today’s complex business, social, and political landscape.
She appeared on the Next Wave Leadership Podcast to get a sense of Sylvia, discussing organizational power dynamics and why old models don’t work today.
Quick recap
Leadership, Energy, and Sustainable Success
Sylvia, a transformative coach and advisor, introduced her upcoming book "Who's in Charge?" which focuses on the challenges leaders face in today's complex world and the importance of maintaining energy and concentrating on meaningful success. Michael shared his experience with managing energy levels and emphasized the need to understand and support the energy levels of one's team. Both agreed that top-down, forceful control is not a practical leadership approach. They highlighted the critical importance of energy in leadership, its impact on an organization, and the connection between energy and power. Sylvia also pointed out the significance of direction, purpose, trust, alignment, and commitment in creating a sustainable source of energy for a team, which Michael related to his experience in a healthcare organization.
Reducing Turnover Through Employee-Driven Culture
Michael shared his successful strategy of reducing annual turnover at a clinic to 6% by creating a culture of trust, vulnerability, and employee involvement. He emphasized the importance of leaders being authentic and curious and cultivating an environment where employees feel valued and encouraged. Sylvia highlighted the benefits of leaders showing their human side and being genuinely open with their teams. Both agreed that when leaders prioritize employee well-being and recognition, it benefits the individuals and contributes to the organization's overall success.
Legacy, Career Motivations, and Finance
Michael and Sylvia discussed the significance of legacy in one's career, with Michael expressing interest in exploring this topic further, especially about younger generations. Sylvia shared her observations that people's motivations and priorities change over time. She emphasized the value of self-reflection and making changes, no matter one's age or stage in their career. Michael agreed, reflecting on his career path and realizing that he didn't enjoy the mountain he had climbed. They also discussed the importance of understanding finance to navigate different tasks successfully, with Michael sharing an anecdote about a physician who worked until age 93 because he enjoyed his job.
Power, Love, and Creativity Discussion
Sylvia discussed the concept of power and its relationship with love and creativity. She emphasized that power and love are not opposites and that love has great power when used creatively and productively. Sylvia cited examples of leaders like Jacinda Arden, who use this type of power based on a creative, willful approach rather than fear and control. She also highlighted the importance of self-love and commitment in achieving and maintaining this type of power.
Self-Care in Leadership Discussion
Sylvia and Michael discussed the importance of self-care in leadership. Michaelemphasizesg that taking care of oneself first allows for better service to others. Sylvia agreed and mentioned her upcoming book, "Smart Power Method," which can be found on her LinkedIn profile and website.
Saturday Aug 24, 2024
Saturday Aug 24, 2024
Deborah Ancona's area of expertise includes organizational behavior, leadership, and the dynamics of high-performing teams. She is mainly known for her pioneering research into how successful teams operate, which led to the concept of X-teams—a framework for driving innovation within large organizations. Ancona's work also focuses on distributed leadership and creating research-based tools, practices, and teaching models to foster creative leadership at all organizational levels.
Deborah is a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor at the Sloan School of Management. She is best known for pioneering research on high-performing teams and distributing nimble leadership and leadership signatures.Deborah is also the founder of the MIT Leadership Center, which is revolutionizing traditional leadership to solve the most challenging problems in management.Her book X-Teams gives deep insights into creating innovative, successful teams with examples from Microsoft, Takeda, and the Museum of Modern Art. She also co-founded xLEAD, which develops research-based tools to encourage creative leadership across management levels. Her work bridges theory and practice, bringing novel ideas into leadership practice.Deborah has been with MIT for over 20 years and, in 2018, was awarded the Jamieson Prize, MIT Sloan’s highest teaching honor. Her widely acclaimed research on how family upbringing affects workplace behavior was published in the Harvard Business Review, titled “Family Ghosts in the Executive Suite”, as was her article on the 4-CAPS+ model, “In Praise of the Incomplete Leader”.https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahancona123/https://mitsloan.mit.edu/centers-initiatives/mit-leadership-center/our-people-mit-leadership-centerhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1591396921https://www.xlead.co/aboutOn the podcast, Deborah would love to talk about:How high-performing teams monitor trends within and outside the organization to perform better.I use the distributed leadership model to adapt to today's rapidly changing business environment.Knowing your “family ghosts” and leadership signature can push your leadership to the next level.
Leadership in Rapidly Changing Environments
Deborah, a professor at MIT Sloan, discussed her research on leadership for rapidly changing environments, including developing capabilities for innovative teams and agile organizations, as well as the impact of childhood experiences on executives. Michael acknowledged the complexity of contemporary organizations due to factors like the pandemic, new workforce generations, and differing expectations.
Understanding Purpose and Culture in Organizations
Michael and Deborah discussed the importance of clearly understanding an organization's purpose and culture. Deborah emphasized the significance of answering the question of 'why should we exist?' and highlighted the usefulness of culture decks, which help to align employees around a shared vision. Michael illustrated this point by discussing the evolution of Netflix and the need for their culture to remain in sync with their changing business model. Both agreed on the necessity of inclusiveness in shaping an organization's culture.
Leadership, Learning, and Curiosity in Organizations
Michael and Deborah discussed the importance of including all stakeholders and fostering a culture of learning and curiosity in organizations. They emphasized the need for leadership at all levels and the value of funneling and choice mechanisms to evaluate new ideas. They also highlighted the role of curiosity in driving innovation and overcoming challenges. Deborah shared her insights on how leaders can facilitate learning and address their "shoulds" that may hold them back. Michael agreed and pointed out the benefits of involving teams as advisors and maintaining a curious approach to opportunities and challenges.
X Teams and Curiosity in Organizations
Deborah discussed creating 'X teams,' which are externally focused and aim to understand customer demands, technology usage, and other contextual factors. She emphasized the importance of curiosity and inter-team coordination in these groups. Deborah also suggested that organizations could encourage curiosity by having team members interview customers or explore how technology is used in their domain. Michael shared a positive experience where such an approach was successfully applied, highlighting the value of customer feedback and the potential for new product features.
Understanding Customer Needs and Empathy
Michael and Deborah discussed the importance of understanding customer needs and pain points. Deborah shared an example of a Microsoft team that delved deeper into understanding their customers' issues, leading to the development of products that addressed those problems. Michael agreed with this approach, highlighting the value of conversations that seek to understand different viewpoints and perspectives. He emphasized the need for more people to engage in such discussions to foster empathy and understanding, which he believes is crucial today.
Disruptive Technologies for Positive Change
Michael and Deborah discussed the future of organizations and society. Deborah expressed hope in the potential of new technologies to positively impact various domains, such as healthcare and climate change. However, she also highlighted the need to balance the use of technology with empathy and critical thinking. Michael agreed, noting that people are increasingly curious and willing to learn from others to improve their organizations. Both emphasized the importance of discarding ineffective practices and using technology for the betterment of society.
Discussing Deborah's Work on Healthy Organizations
Michael and Deborah discussed her work and the importance of creating healthy organizations. Deborah shared that her work could be found on her faculty page at MIT Sloan, Exec Ed at MIT Sloan, and Exlead Co, which offers access to tools and a simulation tool. Michael expressed his appreciation for Deborah's work, highlighting its significance in making organizations healthier and more productive. They both emphasized the importance of reframing and changing mindsets to improve individual and organizational performance.
Thursday Aug 22, 2024
Thursday Aug 22, 2024
Nigel is the CEO of The Flow Consortium and one of the most sought-after speakers and experts in Lean, Agile, and Flow methods.He was Toyota's first Chief of Agile, where he co-created The Flow System and the award-winning Scrum, the Toyota Way approach.Nigel has trained 8,500+ people in Scrum, Agile, Lean, Flow, and Complexity approaches. His coaching portfolio includes GE, Bose, 3M, Microsoft, Vodafone, Lumen, Cox Automotive, and MIT. He is a Forbes Invite-only Coaches Council member and will be listed in the Who’s Who's America later this year.Nigel has co-authored many peer-reviewed papers and books on methods and approaches to accelerating business transformation, including the renowned “The "low System” series. He is a highly sought-after international keynote speaker and will appear on the TV series Advancements, which aired on Bloomberg and Amazon Prime in June 2024.https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelthurlow/
Quick recap
Lean Thinking and Empowering Workers
Nigel and Michael discussed their experiences and perspectives on lean thinking and its application in various work environments. Recalling his time at Toyota, Nigel emphasized the importance of eliminating non-value-added activities and the concept of 'Gemba,' which refers to the actual place where the work is done. He also highlighted the significance of empowering people closest to the work and giving them decision-making authority. Michael shared a nurse's story from a healthcare setting, illustrating how lean principles can be applied to improve efficiency and safety. Both agreed on the need for a balance between enhancing processes and respecting the autonomy and expertise of workers.
Empowering People, Psychological Safety, and Flow
Nigel and Michael discussed the importance of empowering people in an organization, particularly those closest to the work. They emphasized the value of giving employees agency, voice, and ownership in decision-making, which improves their psychological well-being and leads to better outcomes for the organization. They also touched on the concept of psychological safety and how it fosters a culture of trust and collaboration. Lastly, they introduced the idea of the flow system, which they described as a game-changer for organizations.
Developing a Context-Based Learning System
Nigel discussed the development and purpose of a system of learning and understanding based on three key areas: complexity, thinking, distributed leadership, and team science. He emphasized the interconnectedness of these areas and the importance of moving away from rigid frameworks and prescriptive approaches. Instead, he advocated for a context-based approach that considers the effectiveness and utility of tools in specific contexts. Nigel also highlighted the significance of psychological safety, the power distance index, and other leadership aspects in this system.
Understanding Flow System Dynamics
Nigel and Michael discussed the concept of the flow system, which combines various tools and techniques. Michael emphasized the importance of understanding the flow system's dynamics, likening it to a non-linear, squiggly line rather than a straight one. He highlighted that while unpredictable factors like wars and pandemics can disrupt the flow, a comprehensive understanding of the components and ingredients can help mitigate potential issues.
Teamwork, Flow, and Customer Perspective
Michael emphasized the importance of teamwork and supporting each other, especially those struggling. Nigel then discussed the concept of 'flow,' which he described as a psychological state of being fully engaged in and focused on a task or activity. He highlighted that teams must be free from fear and boredom to maintain flow by providing meaningful, challenging, and purposeful work. Nigel also stressed the importance of understanding the value of their work from the perspective of the customer or receiver. Michael agreed, pointing out that when people feel part of a team, they are more likely to contribute and keep things moving.