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.

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.

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.

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

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!

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.