Épisodes

  • Ep 34: Why You Shouldn't Start with an OKR Tool (Yet)

    Ep 34: Why You Shouldn't Start with an OKR Tool (Yet)
    Dec 11 2024
    Thinking about implementing OKRs? Your first instinct might be to shop for an OKR tool - but that could be setting yourself up for failure. In this candid Thinkydoers Short, strategy coach Sara Lobkovich explains why starting with software often backfires, and shares a proven alternative with a methodology-focused approach that will set your organization up for long-term OKR success. Episode Highlights: Common pitfalls of taking a tool-first approach to OKR implementationWhy methodology must come before softwareHow to track OKRs effectively without specialized toolsA practical timeline for OKR implementation that sets you up for successSigns that your organization is actually ready for an OKR tool Key Takeaways: Tools alone don't solve the core challenges of implementing OKRsStart with company-level OKRs and establish strong methodology before scalingSimple tracking methods like spreadsheets can work well in early stagesLet organizational demand drive tool adoption rather than forcing itFocus on behavior change and culture shifts before investing in software Notable Quotes: “ People need an OKR process that isn't yucky. If it's yucky, then they're going to do all sorts of work for a process that might generate a pretty dashboard for the leaders. But we want people to love our OKR implementations. We want people -- not just leaders -- to see the benefit of OKR implementations.” "We want to focus on Objectives and Key Results as continuous learning, and we want to keep our tools and ops simple." "We let folks struggle until they're suffering with the lack of software, and then that makes our software adoption so much more successful." "What's ultimately most important is that leaders need objective information to make decisions." Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Thinkydoer Shorts 00:11 About Your Host, Sara Lobkovich 01:12 Today's Topic: OKR Platforms 02:10 Common Pitfalls in OKR Implementations 04:07 The Executive Excitement and Initial Challenges 05:25 The Role of OKR Platforms 07:10 The Downside of Platform-First Approach 15:05 Methodology-First Approach to OKRs 21:41 Tracking OKRs Without a Platform 30:06 Conclusion and Resources Resources Mentioned: Get the No-BS OKRs Workbook ($19): https://saralobkovich.com/no-bs-okrs-workbook-pdfInfo about the upcoming print version of the No-BS OKRs Workbook & Sara's forthcoming book: "You Are a Strategist: Use No-BS Objectives and Key Results to Get Big Things Done" is available at https://youareastrategist.com Other Free No-BS OKRs Resources: Access all free resourcesThinkydoers (not-just-an OKR podcast) Home Page: https://saralobkovich.com/thinkydoers-pod Connect with Sara: Newsletter: findrc.co/newsletterContact: findrc.co/contactEmail Sara at hello@redcurrantco.comSocial Media: @saralobkovich most everywhere!
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    32 min
  • Ep 33 - Sneak Peek of My Upcoming Book: You Are A Strategist (not just an OKRs book)

    Ep 33 - Sneak Peek of My Upcoming Book: You Are A Strategist (not just an OKRs book)
    Dec 3 2024
    Ever feel like you're speaking a different language than your colleagues when presenting your ideas? Or, like a square peg in your work? Do you feel like you're trying to read minds to understand what's expected of you, while your co-workers are just humming along doing their work? Or, do you lead people who that describes well? In this powerful episode, Sara Lobkovich reveals why the very qualities that might make some people feel like an outsider at work—being "too analytical" or "too detail-oriented"—could actually be their greatest strategic strengths (and a tremendous asset to the organizations they work within). In today's Thinkydoers short, hear a preview of the Introduction to Sara's upcoming book: You Are A Strategist: Use No-BS Objectives and Key Results to Get Big Things Done "You Are A Strategist" isn't just another theoretical strategy book. It's a practical playbook for people who think differently about work and want to make real change happen. Through frameworks like the Connected Strategic One-Pager and No-BS OKRs, you'll discover how to transform your strategic insights into clear, compelling direction that others can actually follow, without getting lost in politics or burning out. Drawing from her experience training over 2,000 OKR coaches across more than 300 organizations globally, Sara shares a human-centered approach to strategy that works for everyone—not just those with traditional business backgrounds or positions of power. Whether you're in the C-Suite, a chief of staff, a program manager, a product manager, a project lead, department director, or high-performing individual contributor (or beyond!), this episode will help you unlock your inner strategist and make your unique impact. Episode Highlights: Why being "strategic" isn't about being smart or having a specific job titleThe five key questions that identify strategic thinkersHow to recognize and empower strategic thinkers in your organizationWhy ideas alone aren't enough in today's business environmentIntroduction to Connected Strategic One-sheet and No-BS OKRsThe science behind goal-setting and motivation Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Thinkydoer Shorts 00:39 Introduction to 'You Are A Strategist' 01:28 Dedication and Audience 01:53 Identifying Strategists 02:25 Challenges and Misconceptions 04:29 Defining Strategy and Strategists 10:17 The Role of Ideas in Strategy 12:18 Implementing Strategic Goals 19:39 The Connected Strategic One Sheet and No BS OKRs 26:57 Conclusion and Next Steps Notable Quotes: [00:05:00] "The job isn't to convince people that you're a smart person; it's to clarify situations so everyone can do the smart thing." (Referencing a quote by Rob Estreitinho of Salmon Labs) [00:07:00] "If you read books and research papers for fun and delight in spotting ways that wildly disparate information connects to create new ideas and approaches, that might be you." [00:09:00] "Good strategy makes the work better, but you don't see the strategy itself. The strategy is the scaffolding that the stuff you ultimately see rests on." [00:12:00] "If anyone is to have any hope of solving the major organizational, cultural, and existential problems we all face together today, insightful, curious, linky brains are an asset." [00:16:00] "In today's market and work world, every person can operate strategically, no matter how senior or tactical your role. Strategy is clear expectations." [00:24:00] "Strategy achievement, at its core, is human behavior change. Psychological research in the motivation sciences fields shows that human behavior change relies heavily on the creation of specific, actionable goals and a learning-focused approach." Key Takeaways: Strategy is about clarifying situations so everyone can do the smart thingStrategic thinking is independent of job title or roleGood strategy makes work better but often remains invisibleClear expectations and empirical measurements are crucial for successStrategy achievement is fundamentally about human behavior change Resources Mentioned: You Are A Strategist book: youareastrategist.comNo-BS OKRs Workbook (PDF download): https://findrc.co/4ggdAtzNewsletter signup: findrc.co/newsletter
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    28 min
  • Ep 32 - Executing Under Pressure: High Stakes, High Performance, With Pro Racer and Firefighter Jayson Uribe

    Ep 32 - Executing Under Pressure: High Stakes, High Performance, With Pro Racer and Firefighter Jayson Uribe
    Nov 12 2024
    What does it take to perform at the absolute limit, every time you show up to work? How do you navigate your own chemisty, and both objective and perceived risk when lives are actually on the line? Find out in this conversation with professional motorcycle road racer, firefighter, and business owner, Jayson Uribe. Jay and I work together in our moto lives -- he's one of the pro riders that I really enjoy working with in my capacity as a team principal for CW Moto Racing. In addition to being a very skilled, highly capable and accomplished rider in a sport where the rider is ultimately the one who goes out there and twists the throttle, Jayson's life and career have given him a unique perspective on teamwork that makes him truly fun to work with. He's also a talented development rider: his ability to give us technical information about his experience on track not only makes it possible for us to improve the bike for him; it also helps us improve our equipment for all of our riders. Jayson agreed to join me for a peek inside his brain, to hear more about his experiences with balancing technical precision and emotional awareness in high-stakes environments. From his morning pre-race routines to his approach to failure and risk management, what he's learned about performing under pressure applies far beyond the racetrack or firehouse. Whether you're facing challenging decisions in your own work, managing teams through high-pressure situations, or simply curious about the psychology of peak performance, you'll find valuable insights in this conversation about what it really takes to execute at the highest level when it matters most. Episode Highlights: The learnable balance between technical expertise and emotional regulationAchieving and maintaining flow states in high-pressure situationsHow morning routines and preparation impact performanceManaging failure and using setbacks as motivationRisk mitigation and decision-making under pressureTransferable skills between racing and firefightingThe myth of natural talent vs. practiced fundamentals Key Concepts Explored: Flow state in high-performance environmentsTechnical precision under emotional stressRisk assessment and managementProgressive goal-settingRecovery and regulation techniquesPerformance preparation routines Notable Quotes: "[High performance] is just perfect execution of fundamentals under stress. And the more perfect the execution, the better the outcome will be." "The best races are the ones you don't remember. When you're riding the bike you're almost so focused that everything else is a blur." "Being able to remove the emotional side of things... you got to lock into the moment of what you are there to do." Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Thinkydoers Podcast 00:56 Current Events and Connecting with Listeners 04:05 Deep Dive: Jayson Uribe's Multifaceted Career 06:51 Balancing Emotions and Technical Precision 11:32 Goal-Setting and Performance Mindset 19:28 Lessons from Racing and Firefighting Guest Information: Jayson Uribe is a professional motorcycle racer with both international and U.S. national career experience. He currently races in MotoAmerica, the U.S. national road racing series (and, with us -- CW Moto, during the off-season in the CVMA series in California). He is also a firefighter, and founder of Code Three Consultations, specializing in automotive forensics and investigations. Jayson's Contact Info: Code Three Consultations: code3consultations.comConnect with Jayson: Instagram @Jayson36uribe Sara's Links & Resources: For a limited time: Schedule a 30-minute Connection Session with Sara (during Nov 2024): https://findrc.co/nov30minCW Moto Racing on Instagram: @cw_motoSara's CW Moto email address: sara@cwmoto.comJoin Sara's Email Newsletter: https://findrc.co/newsletterEmail Sara at hello@redcurrantco.comOther Free No-BS OKRs Resources: Access all free resourcesThinkydoers (not-just-an OKR podcast) Home Page: https://saralobkovich.com/thinkydoers-pod
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    33 min
  • Ep 31 - Speed, Strategy, and Staying Unblocked: Leadership Lessons from Pro Motorsports & Beyond

    Ep 31 - Speed, Strategy, and Staying Unblocked: Leadership Lessons from Pro Motorsports & Beyond
    Oct 31 2024
    What can business leaders learn from the high-stakes world of professional motorsports? Find out, in this conversation between Thinkydoers host Sara Lobkovich (whose "other life" is in professional motorcycle road racing) and organizational change expert Jurriaan Kamer, co-author of "Formula X: How to Reach Extreme Acceleration in Your Organization" and his new release, "Unblock: Clear the Way for Results and Develop a Thriving Organization." We cover a lot of ground here -- from how pro racing teams approaches to goal clarity, mistake recovery, and rhythmic learning can transform your leadership practice, to creating blame-free cultures, and mastering the art of strategic alignment. In this lively and engaging conversation, you'll discover how racing's high-performance, high-stakes principles can accelerate your business performance—whether you're a motorsports fan or not. Episode Highlights: Three core principles business can learn from racing teams: Crystal-clear goals and their role in driving focusBalanced autonomy and alignment in high-performing teamsRhythmic learning: how racing teams turn every moment into an opportunity for improvement Creating blame-free cultures in high-stakes environmentsThe power of "even over" statements in explicit prioritizationDecision-making frameworks: understanding "hats, haircuts, and tattoos"How consent and choice drive organizational ownership Notable Quotes: "Failure avoidance is more dangerous than failure recovery." - Jurriaan Kamer "If you look at Formula 1 teams [...] execution is not 99% of the thing. They understand that everything they do is an opportunity to reflect and improve. These meetings, these rituals, are built into their cadence. It's not something somebody has to plan - it's just part of how they operate." - Jurriaan Kamer "If you try to convince a group of people, the first thing you need to do is not tell them why you think you're right, but ask them what they think is going to go wrong. And then you can start to build conviction together." - Jurriaan Kamer "We have to take a systemic perspective when things go wrong... As an outsider, you think 'Oh, this person needs to be fired, because they blew the chances of a victory.' Which is just very short-term focused because [mistakes] will repeat [themselves] if you don't understand all the factors that were at play." - Jurriaan Kamer Guest Information: Jurriaan Kamer is an organizational change expert based in the Netherlands and author of "Formula X: How to Reach Extreme Acceleration in Your Organization" and "Unblock." Drawing from his unique access to professional car-racing teams and extensive experience with self-managing organizations, he helps leaders worldwide create high-performing, adaptable organizations. Jurriaan's Resources Mentioned: Formula X: How to Reach Extreme Acceleration in Your Organization (Book by Rini van Solingen and Jurriaan Kamer)Unblock: Clear the Way for Results and Develop a Thriving Organization (Book by Jurriaan Kamer)Website: jurriaankamer.comUnblock book website: unblockbook.net Sara's Links and Resources: Join this Fall's Goal Fridays free live series: https://findrc.co/goalfridaysJoin Sara's Email Newsletter: https://findrc.co/newsletterEmail Sara at hello@redcurrantco.comOther Free No-BS OKRs Resources: Access all free resourcesThinkydoers (not-just-an OKR podcast) Home Page: https://saralobkovich.com/thinkydoers-podFollow CW Moto Racing on Instagram: https://instagram.com/cw_moto Find full show notes and the episode transcript via https://findrc.co/thinkydoers !
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    45 min
  • Ep 30 - Getting Unstuck: Don't Go It Alone (Part 2 with Dr. Sherlonda Adkins)

    Ep 30 - Getting Unstuck: Don't Go It Alone (Part 2 with Dr. Sherlonda Adkins)
    Oct 23 2024

    Feeling stuck but unsure how to get help? You're not alone - and this episode is for you. In part two of my powerful conversation with Dr. Sherlonda Adkins, we explore why the journey to getting unstuck shouldn't be a solo endeavor. Learn why it takes most people 10 years to seek professional help, how to find the right therapist (and what to do if your first try isn't a fit), and practical strategies for getting the support you need. Whether you're considering therapy for the first time or looking to rebuild trust after a difficult experience, this episode offers candid insights and actionable guidance for taking that crucial first step.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Finding the right therapist and why it's like dating
    • How to have an initial conversation with potential therapists
    • The importance of establishing boundaries in therapeutic relationships
    • Why it's never too late to seek help
    • Building a healthy support system

    Common Questions:

    • How do I know if I need professional help?
    • What should I look for in a therapist?
    • What if my first therapy experience isn't working?
    • How do I communicate with my therapist about concerns?

    Notable Quotes:

    "It's never too late to start. I've worked with patients in their seventies, and my biggest heartbreak is for people to leave this earth without experiencing joy—being stuck and not seeing what it could have looked like." - Dr. Adkins

    "The average length of time that it takes for someone to actually seek professional help is about 10 years." - Dr. Adkins

    "Before you can actually trust someone, you got to feel comfortable." - Dr. Adkins

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Dr. Sherlonda Adkins Website: drsherlondaadkins.com
    • Dr. Sherlonda Adkins on LinkedIn

    Sara's Links and Resources:

    • Join this Fall's Goal Fridays free live series: https://findrc.co/goalfridays
    • Join Sara's Email Newsletter: https://findrc.co/newsletter
    • Email Sara at hello@redcurrantco.com
    • Other Free No-BS OKRs Resources: Access all free resources
    • Thinkydoers (not-just-an OKR podcast) Home Page: https://saralobkovich.com/thinkydoers-pod

    Find full show notes and the episode transcript via https://findrc.co/thinkydoers !
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    18 min
  • Feeling Stuck: Signs and Symptoms Not to Ignore (Part 1 with Dr. Sherlonda Adkins)

    Feeling Stuck: Signs and Symptoms Not to Ignore (Part 1 with Dr. Sherlonda Adkins)
    Oct 22 2024
    Ever felt "off" but couldn't quite name it? Did it feel like you were "stuck?" What if that feeling of being "stuck" is actually trying to tell you something important? In this illuminating conversation with Dr. Sherlonda Adkins, a Physician Assistant and "Unstuck Strategist," we explore how feeling stuck can masquerade as depression, anxiety, or burnout - and why recognizing the difference matters. Whether you're questioning your career path or feeling stagnant in life, this episode offers vital insights into identifying and understanding stuckness before it impacts your wellbeing. Then join us for part two with Dr. Adkins where we'll explore practical strategies for getting unstuck and creating positive change in your life. Episode Highlights: The difference between clinical depression and feeling stuckPhysical, emotional, and mental signs of stucknessHow "sticky thinking" patterns keep us trappedWhy career transitions and family dynamics are common stuck pointsThe relationship between substance use and feeling stuckWhy being stuck isn't always negative - it can signal important life changes Common Questions: What are the signs of being stuck vs. depression?How does stuckness show up physically in our bodies?When should you seek professional help for feeling stuck?How can you tell if you're experiencing sticky thinking? Notable Quotes: "Sometimes people end up sitting on my couch saying 'I'm depressed,' thinking it's neurobiological changes, when in fact it's more secondary to their feeling stuck." - Dr. Adkins "Suffering is different from going through tough times - suffering means you're not accessing available relief while going through difficulties." - Dr. Adkins "Sometimes being stuck is jolting because you recognize there's a misalignment between your compass and your soul." - Dr. Adkins About Today's Guest: Dr. Sherlonda Adkins is a physician assistant and unstuck strategist based in Charleston, South Carolina. Through her telemedicine practice and coaching work, she helps people around the world create lives they don't need to escape from. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Sherlonda Adkins Website: drsherlondaadkins.comDr. Sherlonda Adkins on LinkedIn Sara's Links and Resources Join this Fall's Goal Fridays free live series: https://findrc.co/goalfridaysJoin Sara's Email Newsletter: https://findrc.co/newsletterEmail Sara at hello@redcurrantco.comOther Free No-BS OKRs Resources: Access all free resourcesThinkydoers (not-just-an OKR podcast) Home Page: https://saralobkovich.com/thinkydoers-pod Find full show notes and the episode transcript via https://findrc.co/thinkydoers !
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    22 min
  • Mindfulness for Overthinkers and Perfectionists with Dr. Alice Rizzi

    Mindfulness for Overthinkers and Perfectionists with Dr. Alice Rizzi
    Oct 15 2024
    Are you an overthinker who can't seem to quiet your mind? A perfectionist struggling to find peace in a chaotic world? This episode is your lifeline. Dr. Alice Rizzi, a licensed psychologist and mindfulness coach, breaks down the myths about mindfulness and offers practical, accessible techniques that even the busiest minds can embrace. Discover how just 30 seconds a day can transform your mental landscape and why traditional meditation isn't the only path to mindfulness. Whether you've tried mindfulness before and given up, or you're completely new to the concept, this episode promises to revolutionize your approach to mental well-being. Episode Highlights: Dr. Rizzi's refreshing definition of mindfulness that goes beyond sitting stillThe surprising difference between mindfulness and meditationGame-changing mindfulness techniques tailored for overthinkers and perfectionistsHow to start a mindfulness practice when you think you have no timeSimple grounding exercises that can calm your nervous system in secondsThe overlooked importance of self-compassion in mindfulness practice Common Questions Addressed: What is mindfulness, really, and how is it different from meditation?Can overthinkers and perfectionists actually benefit from mindfulness?What are some quick, no-nonsense ways to incorporate mindfulness into a hectic life?How can mindfulness help manage the overwhelming stress and anxiety of modern life? Notable Quotes: "Mindfulness is the quality of being present in this moment with awareness, acceptance, kindness, compassion, curiosity, and non-judgment." - Dr. Alice Rizzi "It's better to do 30 seconds every day than even sit for 10 minutes once a week." - Dr. Alice Rizzi "Right now, in this moment, chances are you're actually okay." - Dr. Alice Rizzi Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Thinkydoers Podcast 01:27 Goal Fridays: A Series for Changemakers 02:45 Meet Dr. Alice Rizzi: Mindfulness Expert 04:35 Understanding Mindfulness and Meditation 06:44 Mindfulness for High Achievers and Overthinkers 09:48 Grounding Techniques for Overthinkers 16:28 The Power of Self-Compassion and Non-Judgment 21:52 Practical Tips for Mindfulness Practice 32:11 Conclusion and Resources Key Takeaways: Forget long meditation sessions; brief daily practices can be more effective for busy minds.Learn the "five, four, three, two, one" grounding technique to instantly reconnect with the present moment.Discover why self-compassion might be the missing piece in your mindfulness journey.Explore how a simple self-hug can regulate your nervous system faster than you think. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Alice Rizzi's Instagram: @DrAliceRizzi Website: togethermindful.com (free mindfulness toolkit available) Therapy services (NY and FL): dralicerizzi.com Sara's Links and Resources: Join this Fall's Goal Fridays free live series: https://findrc.co/goalfridaysThe No-BS OKRs Workbook, currently available as a PDF download from https://findrc.co/pdfworkbook (USD) or https://findrc.co/pdfwkbkAUD (AUD)Join the Launch Squad for Sara's Upcoming Books: You Are A Strategist and the No-BS OKRs WorkbookJoin Sara's Email NewsletterEmail Sara at hello@redcurrantco.comThinkydoers (not-just-an OKR podcast) Home Page Whether you're a seasoned mindfulness practitioner or a skeptical beginner, this episode offers fresh insights and practical tools to help you navigate life's challenges with greater ease and presence.
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    37 min
  • October Theory: Gen-Z Discovers Quarterly Planning (and the Olds can learn a thing or two)

    October Theory: Gen-Z Discovers Quarterly Planning (and the Olds can learn a thing or two)
    Oct 14 2024

    Is October the new January? Gen Z thinks so, and they might be onto something. In this Thinkydoers Short, I dive into the viral TikTok trend of "October Theory" and explore how it intersects with established business practices like quarterly planning and OKRs (Objectives and Key Results). Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, this episode offers fresh insights on goal-setting and achievement.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Introduction to "October Theory" and its viral spread on TikTok
    • How October Theory aligns with business quarterly planning practices
    • What us Olds can learn from the youth on the importance of end-of-Q3 retrospectives and learning reviews
    • Introduction to Key Results for Gen Z goal-setters
    • The benefits of outcome-based goals over activity-based goals

    Key Questions:

    • What is October Theory?
    • How does October Theory relate to business planning cycles?
    • What are Key Results in the context of OKRs?
    • Why are outcome-based goals more effective than activity-based goals?

    Notable Quotes:

    "Let's listen to the next generation on this one and prioritize the end of Q3 reset."

    "Key results are a different kind of goal... We're going to think about what would be really incredible to achieve in terms of impacts or quantifiable outcomes of our effort."

    "Instead of the risk of the all or nothing bad feelings that we get when we set just activity based goals, when we create key results, that's what we're pursuing... We get instantly curious, even if you're not having any progress."

    Episode Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to Thinkydoer Shorts

    01:15 Discovering October Theory

    02:07 Understanding October Theory and Its Impact

    03:43 The Power of Key Results for Gen Z

    04:06 Implementing OKRs in Business

    06:21 Creating Effective Key Results

    09:02 The Benefits of Key Results Over Activity Goals

    12:57 Conclusion and Join the Pre-Launch List for You Are A Strategist

    Links and Resources:

    • Pre-launch list for "You Are a Strategist": youareastrategist.com
    • Sara's website: saralobkovich.com
    • Shortcut to Sara's website: findrc.co
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    14 min