Growing (Startup) Pains and why this 100+ head CEO still interviews new hires. ft Dr. Marcus Tan (HealthEngine)

Org Design Podcast

#MBA #Entrepreneur #Business #Amy Springer, Tim Brewer and Damian Bramanis #Amy Springer #Damian Bramanis #Tim Brewer #Org Design #Organization Design #Org Planning #Organisation Planning #Team Design #Job Design #IT Management #People Are Culture

35:12

Sidhu Moose Wala explodes onto the Canadian music scene. His sound is a fusion of two worlds - hip-hop with the poetic language of rural Punjab, where he is from. After years of struggle he’s making it. But with the spotlight comes a dark side. As his fame grows, so do the threats. "We will kill you." Presented by broadcaster and DJ Bobby Friction and investigative journalist Ishleen Kaur. Season 8 of World of Secrets, The Killing Call, is a BBC Eye investigation for the BBC World Service. Archive audio credits: Lovepreet Waraich, Malwa TV, BritAsia TV, MPHONE Canteeni Mandeer, GK Digital, Thakur Media, Capital Extra, Famous Punjab TV, ModernSings, Dheeth.jeha, RealRohitBlogs, Mirror Now, India Today. Here’s a link to the BBC Eye two-part documentary films, which we recommend you watch after listening to this podcast: https://bit.ly/thekillingcall If you are in the UK, you can watch on iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002f18y…

5 years ago 28:54

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Join us are we chat with Dr. Marcus Tan, co-founder & CEO of HealthEngine: A venture backed darling of the Australian startup scene, now with over 100+ team that started in his lounge room. Settle in for an inspiring episode as Tim & Damian explore HealthEngine's story as Marcus shares some of the lessons (and scars) he's gained along the way.

Find out more about what Marcus and his team are up to at: https://healthengine.com.au/ • Twitter: @drmarcustan • LinkedIn: drmarcustan
🎧THE WORK DESIGN PODCAST
Recorded at Spacecubed Perth, Western Australia • Hosts: Tim Brewer & Damian Bramanis • Producer: Dave Hack • Theme Music: John Okely • Voice over: Danielle Brewer • Executive Producer: Frank Llama • Brought to you by www.functionly.com • The Work Design Podcast is dedicated to all things Org Design, Team design and job design. Join us as we together making work, work better by subscribing to the podcast, sharing it on LinkedIn.
For more on global Work Design trends head to www.functionly.com and sign up for our free monthly Work Design publication.

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35 episodes

Growing (Startup) Pains and why this 100+ head CEO still interviews new hires. ft Dr. Marcus Tan (HealthEngine)

Org Design Podcast

published 5 years ago

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35 episodes

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Org Design Podcast

1
“I Had No Idea Org Design Was Even a Thing!" — Liz Ferguson’s Real-Talk Journey Through Org Change 22:22

13 days ago22:22

22:22

In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, hosts Tim Brewer and Damian Bramanis welcome Liz Ferguson from Wiley's research publishing group. Liz shares her journey into organizational design, which began unexpectedly as she took on a new leadership role managing a large team. Faced with the challenge of restructuring to better align with industry changes, she sought external expertise to guide the process. Liz discusses the importance of understanding the unique needs of her organization and how collaborative workshops helped identify inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement. Throughout the conversation, Liz emphasizes the value of being open-minded as a leader and involving team members in the change process. She reflects on the challenges of balancing strategy with the human side of organizational change, advocating for gradual engagement over abrupt transitions. This episode highlights the continuous evolution of organizations and the need for leaders to adapt their structures to meet changing market demands.…

Org Design Podcast

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Why Leaders Need to Embrace Chaos (and Love It) with Carlos Valdes-Dapena 28:30

24 days ago28:30

28:30

Send us a text In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, we sit down with Carlos Valdes-Dapena, a seasoned expert in organizational design and development. Carlos shares his insights on the evolving nature of organizational structures, the importance of adaptability in leadership, and the human aspects of organizational change. Carlos discusses the shift from traditional hierarchical structures to more responsive and adaptive organizational models. He emphasizes the need for leaders to let go of outdated control paradigms and embrace a more flexible approach to management. The conversation touches on the challenges of change, both for organizations and individuals, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in today's rapidly evolving business landscape. Key points from the episode: The transition from control-based to responsive organizational structures The importance of adaptability and "letting go" for leaders in modern organizations The human challenges in organizational change and the need for continuous learning Insights into the Organization Design Forum (ODF) and its role in the field of organizational design The broad scope of organizational design, encompassing various aspects of how human systems operate in workplaces This episode offers valuable insights for leaders, managers, and anyone interested in improving organizational effectiveness and navigating the complexities of modern business environments. Support the show…

Org Design Podcast

1
Friction by Design: Why Your Org Chart Might Be the Real Problem with Herman Vantrappen 29:53

27 days ago29:53

29:53

In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, host Tim Brewer welcomes Herman Vantrappen, a seasoned management consultant and author, to discuss the intricacies of organizational design. Herman shares his journey into the field, beginning with his early experiences in management consulting at Arthur D. Little. He emphasizes the importance of having a comprehensive framework for organizational design that allows for nuanced debates among executives, as well as the need for leaders to take ownership of redesign processes. Herman highlights the common pitfalls in organizational design, such as design faults that lead to unnecessary tensions and conflicts within organizations. He explains how these tensions often escalate to the CEO, diverting their attention from strategic leadership to operational issues. Herman advocates for a more robust approach to organizational design that not only addresses current challenges but also fosters an environment that minimizes friction and enhances agility. Throughout the conversation, Herman discusses the core themes of his recent book, "The Organization Design Guide," co-authored with Frederic Wirtz, which aims to provide leaders with the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of organizational change successfully. The episode is packed with practical advice for CEOs and managers looking to improve their organization's design and effectiveness. Join us for an insightful discussion that challenges conventional thinking about leadership and organizational structure, encouraging leaders to consider the broader implications of their design choices on overall organizational health.…

Org Design Podcast

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Why True Collaboration is Rare and How to Fix It with Abby Allen 19:26

6 weeks ago19:26

19:26

In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, hosts Tim Brewer and Amy Springer welcome Abby Allen, an organizational development practitioner with over 20 years of experience. Abby shares her insights on the evolving nature of organizational design, emphasizing the importance of understanding both people and systems in order to foster effective collaboration within organizations. The discussion covers the impact of artificial intelligence on organizational structures, the challenges of leading large organizations, and the necessity of having a systems-oriented approach to solve complex problems. Abby highlights the significance of asking the right questions to uncover underlying issues within organizations, rather than merely focusing on surface-level solutions. She encourages leaders to embrace collaboration, not just as a function, but as a culture within their teams. Throughout the conversation, Abby shares practical advice for those looking to build organizational design capabilities within their companies, stressing the need for an open-minded and generative approach to leadership. Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the challenges of organizational design in today's fast-paced environment and learn how to create healthier, more adaptable organizations.…

Org Design Podcast

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Strategy First, People Always: Balancing Tough Decisions and Empathy in Org Design with Nicole Gee 25:13

8 weeks ago25:13

25:13

In this insightful episode of the Org Design Podcast, Amy Springer and Rory Mustan from Functionly are joined by Nicole Gee from Geenius Consulting to explore the nuanced journey of organizational design. Nicole candidly shares her early struggles in org design, emphasizing the pivotal role of confidence and clarity. She highlights that successful organizational change requires leaders to deeply understand the strategic 'why' behind decisions and thoughtfully manage the emotional impacts on their teams. Listeners will gain valuable insights on: How Nicole overcame initial setbacks by embracing continuous learning and feedback. The critical balance between strategy and empathy, ensuring that people are always central to org design. Practical steps for leaders to confidently and transparently guide their teams through complex changes. The importance of clearly articulating challenges, required capabilities, and roles early in the process. Why active listening and informal conversations can be powerful tools for leaders anticipating organizational shifts. This episode emphasizes that effective org design goes beyond structural changes—it's about building confidence, clarity, and genuine engagement throughout the process. Connect with Nicole Gee on LinkedIn or at geeniusconsulting.co.uk.…

Org Design Podcast

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Honor the past while embracing the future in your org design with Ramona Elena-Cherciu 22:21

10 weeks ago22:21

22:21

Join us on the Org Design Podcast as we dive into a captivating conversation with Ramona Elena Curciu, Head of Coherence, live from the EODF conference in Milan. In this episode, we explore the essence of org design, the journey from personal challenges to professional triumphs, and the importance of approaching organizational change with humility and respect. Ramona shares her unique insights on balancing the heart and tools in org design, emphasizing the need to honor the past while fostering growth. As hosts, we delve into the mindset required for effective org design, drawing parallels with design research principles. Tune in to discover how compassion and curiosity can transform organizational landscapes. If you're curious about org design or seeking inspiration, this episode is a must-listen. Connect with Ramona on LinkedIn and share your thoughts with us.…

Org Design Podcast

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Inclusion in Org Design and creating conditions for EVERYBODY to thrive with Amri B. Johnson 29:35

12 weeks ago29:35

29:35

In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, hosts Tim Brewer and Amy Springer welcome Amri B. Johnson from Inclusion Wins. Amri shares his journey into organizational design, revealing how his background as an epidemiologist shaped his understanding of leadership and management. He discusses the importance of creating organizational structures that foster emergent strategies, emphasizing that "structure creates behavior." Amri highlights the common pitfalls organizations face when trying to implement diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, noting that many fail to align their strategies with their stated goals. He argues for a shift in perspective: DEI should not be seen as a separate initiative but as integral to the organization's fabric. Listeners will gain insights into the significance of including team members in the decision-making process and the need for leaders to develop robust listening skills to build adaptive organizations. This conversation aims to equip leaders with the tools to create inclusive environments that allow all individuals to thrive, ultimately driving better organizational outcomes. Tune in to learn how to design organizations that are not only effective but also resilient and inclusive, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.…

Org Design Podcast

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Mastering the Cube: A Deep Dive into Organizational Design with Dallin Whitfield 15:32

14 weeks ago15:32

15:32

In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, Tim Brewer and Amy Springer sit down with Dallin Whitfield, a volunteer at the Org Design Festival and an expert in organizational design. Dallin shares his unconventional journey from aspiring lawyer to becoming an organization design consultant, highlighting the importance of understanding systems and people in the workplace. They discuss the evolving nature of organizational design, emphasizing the need for adaptability in response to external pressures like technological advancements and market changes. Dallin explains how Align Org, his current consultancy, focuses on collaboration and leveraging existing organizational knowledge to drive effective design processes. Listeners will gain insights into the methodologies used in organizational design, including the "Mastering the Cube" framework, which Dallin uses to guide organizations through strategic alignment and structural changes. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by organizations in today’s fast-paced environment and the importance of continuous design governance. Join us for an engaging discussion on how to navigate the complexities of organization design and build better workplaces.…

Org Design Podcast

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From Science to Strategy: Effective Org Design with Beth Gunderson 28:28

16 weeks ago28:28

28:28

Join us on the Org Design Podcast as we dive into the fascinating journey of Beth Gunderson in our episode, From Science to Strategy: Effective Org Design with Beth Gunderson. Beth, a key figure at the University of Southern California's Center for Effective Organizations, shares her unique path from material science to becoming an influential org design consultant. We explore her insights on the STAR framework, the importance of aligning org design with strategy, and the evolving role of operating models. Beth also discusses how leaders can effectively communicate change and foster collaboration across various organizational levels. With her extensive experience, Beth offers valuable advice for leaders and designers alike. Tune in as Amy, Damian, and I uncover the intricacies of effective org design and how it can transform organizations.…

Org Design Podcast

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Bringing Soul Back to Work: Designing for Dignity, Creativity, and Connection with Jardena London 18:38

18 weeks ago18:38

18:38

In this conversation, Jardena London—an Agile practitioner and author—discusses the concept of creating “soulful” organizations. Drawing on her background in software development, Jardena noticed that the real challenges weren’t purely technical; instead, they stemmed from how people and teams work together. She highlights three core conditions for soulfulness in any organization: Dignity – Ensuring people are treated with respect, rather than being forced to earn basic self-worth through work. Creativity – Making space for genuine problem-solving and innovation, as opposed to purely transactional or process-driven work that drains energy. Human Connection – Fostering collaboration and openness instead of merely relying on rigid handoffs and “automated” communication. Jardena contrasts these elements with environments that “crush the soul,” where strict processes, ego-driven leadership, or lack of trust discourage creativity and honest dialogue. She believes leaders have a key role in setting conditions: by becoming more self-aware, staying curious (especially in high-stakes situations), and listening actively, they can reduce friction and remove obstacles for their teams. From an organization design perspective, Jardena advocates looking at formal structures, processes, and policies—like budgeting or performance reviews—and asking how they might be unintentionally stifling dignity, creativity, or connection. Then, leaders should revisit the original purpose of these processes and rebuild them in ways that restore or enhance soulfulness. Ultimately, Jardena’s message is that while efficiency and outcomes matter, they are achieved more sustainably when leaders and teams operate with humanity at the forefront—creating organizations where people’s energy and creativity can flourish.…

Org Design Podcast

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Empathy Meets Strategy: How Leaders Transform Organizations with Pallavi Srivistava 25:55

20 weeks ago25:55

25:55

Send us a text In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, host Amy Springer engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Pallavi Srivastava, an associate partner at The OrgSmith. They explore the often misunderstood concept of organizational design, emphasizing its importance beyond mere restructuring and cost-cutting measures. Pallavi shares insights on the need for leaders to adopt an agile and entrepreneurial mindset in today's rapidly changing business environment, particularly in light of recent global disruptions like COVID-19. The discussion covers the critical role of leaders in aligning organizational structures with dynamic strategies and the necessity for constant communication about these strategies. Pallavi highlights the significance of fostering a culture of innovation and psychological safety, enabling organizations to adapt quickly to change. She provides real-world examples of companies that successfully pivoted during the pandemic, demonstrating the qualities that empower resilient and agile organizations. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of job design in the context of AI and digital transformation, and the essential leadership skills required to navigate these changes. Pallavi underscores the need for empathy in leadership while also advocating for the courage to make tough decisions as organizations adapt to new challenges. Join us for this enlightening episode as we uncover the complexities of organizational design and the pivotal role of leadership in fostering a responsive and resilient business environment. Support the show…

Org Design Podcast

1
Cultivating Love-Driven Success in Business with David Henzel 17:52

22 weeks ago17:52

17:52

Send us a text In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, the hosts chat with David Henzel, the founder of Love Not Fear and an accomplished entrepreneur with a diverse portfolio of businesses. David shares his journey from being a recovering introvert to a successful leader, emphasizing the transformative power of making decisions out of love rather than fear. He discusses the importance of creating a company culture where employees feel empowered and motivated, leading to increased productivity and satisfaction. David dives into practical strategies for fostering alignment, trust, and motivation within teams, including innovative approaches to organizational design that break down silos and promote collaboration. He introduces exercises such as the lifeline and 3-2-1 to help team members connect on a deeper level, enhancing communication and cooperation. Listeners will gain insight into David's experience with various companies, including Upcoach and TaskDrive, and learn how his philosophy of "Love Not Fear" can be applied to cultivate a thriving organizational culture. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for leaders seeking to create meaningful and impactful work environments. Support the show…

Org Design Podcast

1
Leading change with curiosity, clarity and human-centricity with Elizabeth Venter and Ross Libby 25:52

24 weeks ago25:52

25:52

Send us a text In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, we're joined by Elizabeth Venter and Ross Libby to explore the human side of organizational change. Our guests share invaluable insights on how to implement structural changes while keeping people at the heart of the transformation process. Key discussion points include: The importance of involving team members in organizational change rather than imposing decisions from above Why continuous communication is crucial throughout the entire change process How seeking clarity rather than certainty leads to better organizational outcomes The value of experimentation and learning through pilot programs Elizabeth emphasizes that successful organizational change requires supporting each team individually through their transformation journey, while Ross shares the powerful perspective that "the future punishes certainty but rewards clarity." Together, they provide practical advice for leaders navigating organizational change, whether they're org design experts or just beginning their journey. This conversation offers essential insights for anyone interested in creating more effective, human-centered organizations that can adapt and thrive in today's rapidly changing business environment. Support the show…

Org Design Podcast

1
Beyond the Day-to-Day: Transforming Technical Experts into Strategic Leaders with Jodie Goulden 21:27

26 weeks ago21:27

21:27

Send us a text In this episode of the Org Design Podcast, organizational design expert Jodie Goulden shares valuable insights on leadership transitions and organizational effectiveness. She discusses the concept, shared by Beth Gunderson at the 2024 ODF conference, the challenges leaders face when moving from operational roles ("the dance floor") to strategic positions ("the balcony"), particularly in rapidly growing organizations. Key highlights include: The importance of balancing strategic oversight with operational understanding Practical techniques for facilitating organizational diagnosis without external consultants Strategies for helping technically proficient leaders adapt to broader management roles Methods for addressing organizational overwhelm and creating sustainable systems Jodie emphasizes the power of collaborative problem-solving and shares how leaders can create space for different perspectives when addressing organizational challenges. She provides practical advice for leaders who may feel uncomfortable stepping away from day-to-day operations to take a more strategic view. Whether you're a new leader adjusting to a larger scope of responsibility or an experienced executive looking to improve organizational effectiveness, this episode offers valuable insights into modern leadership challenges and organizational design principles. Support the show…

Org Design Podcast

1
Humanizing Leadership: How Modern Organizations Can Build Trust and Drive Growth with Vinisha Rathod 25:28

28 weeks ago25:28