Lean Into Excellence

Back to Basics: Why White & Yellow Belt Training Matters

We’re excited to welcome back Doug Bruce to Lean Into Excellence for a powerful conversation about the often-overlooked value of White and Yellow Belt training in the Lean Six Sigma journey. In this episode, we break down why these entry-level certifications aren’t just for beginners—they’re essential for building a strong foundation of continuous improvement across any organization. We discuss: ✅ How individuals at all levels benefit from early-stage training ✅ Why companies should invest in developing problem-solving skills across the workforce ✅ Real-world examples of how White and Yellow Belts create lasting impact Whether you're new to Lean Six Sigma or leading a team, this episode will show you why every improvement journey starts with the right mindset and the right tools.

The Continual Evolution of the Customer Corrective Action Request

In this episode of Lean Into Excellence, we’re shaking things up! Chuck Gillis steps in for Marco Bonilla as we welcome special guest Mike Daley to the conversation. Together, we dive into the evolution of Corrective Action Request (CAR) and Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA)—exploring how these essential processes have transformed over time to drive lasting improvements. If you’re in quality, process improvement, or leadership, this episode is packed with insights to help you tackle issues at the source and create a culture of continuous improvement.

Deming’s Legacy: The Man Who Transformed Continuous Improvement

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

Government Efficiency: Can It Be Done?

For years, "government efficiency" has sounded like an oxymoron—but with the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the conversation is shifting. In this episode of Lean Into Excellence, we explore: ✅ Can government agencies truly embrace efficiency? ✅ Who’s already doing it right?  ✅ What’s the best way to support and sustain change in the public sector? We break down the real challenges and opportunities in making government work smarter, not harder. If the private sector can streamline operations, why not public institutions? Join us as we challenge the status quo and uncover what it really takes to bring continuous improvement to the halls of government.   Resources: https://www.mma.org/about-mma/publications/bestpractices/ https://asq.org/quality-press/display-item?i

Elevating Supplier Relations with Continuous Improvement

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

Mapping Success: Identifying and Navigating Continuous Improvement Projects for Maximum Impact with Joe Ficalora

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

Overcoming Resistance to Lean Six Sigma Initiatives

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

Transforming Your Career with Lean Six Sigma- An Interview with Natalie Woof

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Natalie Woof, a powerhouse in the world of Lean Six Sigma. Natalie shares her incredible journey of career transformation, emphasizing the power of taking that crucial first step. From her initial doubts to becoming a sought-after expert, she embodies the spirit of "just start" and see what happens. Join us as Natalie dives into her personal experiences, offering practical tips and motivation for anyone looking to make a change in their professional life. Whether you're contemplating a new career path or seeking to improve your current role, this conversation will ignite your passion and inspire you to embrace the journey of growth and learning. Don’t miss it!

Continuous Improvement: Small Business vs. Big Corporations – What’s the Difference?

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

From Navy Decks to Business Excellence with Tiger Tamers, LLC.

As we celebrate our 15th episode, we dive deep with the founders of Tiger Tamers, LLC – a group of US Navy veterans who are revolutionizing the continuous improvement landscape. These industry mavericks bring their naval expertise to the corporate world, offering a unique blend of methodologies that's changing the game. Discover how Tiger Tamers is the only firm integrating DISC Flow, Symmetry Inspire, and the Network Talent Model with tried-and-true Lean Six Sigma practices. Learn about their mission to "Shape the Passion Within" and how they're empowering professionals to achieve spectacular success in both personal and professional realms.