We decided it was time to bring AI back into the discussion for this month's episode of the Process Palooza Podcast. To help us do that, we have invited Jon Wade, a professor of practice at the Jacobs School of Engineering. Dr. Wade specializes in systems engineering, a goldmine field for process improvement information. What we are really interested in, though, is his work in mining that field for the world's largest and most complex system:  human society.

Topics Mentioned:
1. An introduction to Dr. Jon Wade and his background
2. A world changed by a pandemic
3. Human Society as Systems (and types of systems)
4. How philosophies can evolve over time
5. Building connection and accepting when something can't be changed
6. Knowing what to measure when improving systems
7. Experience with continuous improvement
8. What is systems engineering?
9. Real world examples of systems engineering (for good or ill)
10. Societal impacts of technologies
11. Ethical implications of AI
12. Potential and promise of AI 
13. The OODA Loop, or how large organizations can make decisions quickly
14. The power of the open source movement
15. Reaching the public

Donella Meadows and Leverage Points: 
 https://donellameadows.org/archives/leverage-points-places-to-intervene-in-a-system/

A closer look at the OODA Loop: https://thedecisionlab.com/reference-guide/computer-science/the-ooda-loop

My own book recommendation about building connections and empathy:  https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/550616/the-war-for-kindness-by-jamil-zaki/

Process Palooza Podcast Ep. 5:  Systems, Processes, and Addressing Global Uncertainty

In this episode, we explore the concept of systems—what they are, how they work, and how to build a sustainable system for your organization. We break down the key components of a system, including people, behaviors, and technology, and explains how these elements must work together to achieve a greater outcomes. The episode delves into the three essential characteristics of a successful system: it must be Alive, Written, and Sustainable. Practical steps are provided for creating and maintaining a system, from establishing written procedures to monitoring progress and ensuring long-term sustainability. The episode wraps up with a call to action for listeners to apply these insights in their own organizations, fostering efficient and effective systems.

Show Notes
Ep 14 - Meeting Midway - Risk Screening https://open.spotify.com/episode/3apFVeOsaOsuPNSMMXrINE?si=hLUCVLQoQCeM07ZZ361m5Q
MTSS  DMH - https://dmh.mo.gov/dev-disabilities/tiered-supports/mtss


Additional Resources 
Missouri Department of Mental Health - https://dmh.mo.gov/
Missouri Department of Mental Health Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MODivisionDD
Missouri Division of Developmental Disabilities Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MODivisionDD
X - https://twitter.com/MentalHealthMO
Missouri Department of Mental Health Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPsFpAHi-lN5sEaf_pbhEWg
Missouri Division of Developmental Disabilities Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@modivisionofdevelopmentald1632


Ep. 28 Meeting Midway Way Tier 2 Prevention - What do you know about systems?

Operations isn't just about logistics or managing a warehouse—it’s about the way your business actually works every single day. It’s where vision becomes reality.

In this actionable talk, Dr. Claude Kershner IV walks you through the real-world essentials of operations strategy for entrepreneurs, small business owners, team leaders, and customer service professionals. You’ll learn how to build a business that consistently delivers—without burning out or breaking the bank.

We’ll break down:

What “Operations” Really Means
Not just delivery trucks and supply chains. It’s about the systems, people, and processes that turn ideas into customer value. Whether you’re running a salon, staffing firm, restaurant, or online store—operations is the heartbeat of your business.

Designing an Operating Model
Learn to map out your value creation step by step: input → throughput → output. Identify bottlenecks and fix them before they cost you time, money, and reputation.

Customer “Moments of Truth”
Every touchpoint—greeting, invoice, delivery, follow-up—is a chance to stand out or drop the ball. We’ll show you how to consistently win those moments and shape customer loyalty.

Front-Stage vs. Back-Stage Operations
What the customer sees matters—but what happens behind the scenes can make or break the experience. Get clarity on how to build structure on both fronts.

Capacity and Demand
What’s your magic number? Learn how to measure your revenue-driving activities (calls, jobs, transactions), calculate break-even demand, and design operations to scale.

Running Like a Franchise (Without Being One)
You don’t need to buy a franchise to act like one. We’ll show you how to create repeatable processes that bring discipline, consistency, and clarity to your operations—no matter your industry.

🔑 Whether you’re:
Struggling with daily chaos in your business…
A student trying to understand business mechanics…
Or a leader refining your customer journey...
This session is a must-watch.

📌 About the Presenter:
Dr. Claude Kershner IV is a business professor, consultant, and entrepreneur. His work focuses on helping organizations translate vision into execution through systems thinking, leadership development, and strategic operations.


Operations Bootcamp: How to Run a Business That Consistently Delivers

The Dr. Claude Kershner Show empowers students, professionals, and scholars by offering practical examples of Strategic Entrepreneurship. In a series of teachings, interviews, and stories, we confidently provide evidence-based tactics to take teams and organizations through life cycle transitions.

New tracks tagged #Process Improvement