That Change Show

• The Human in the Lead: Why Change Agents Must Become AI Champions

  Have ideas for the show? Liked a topic? Let us know!Connect with Rachel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/racheljannaway/That Change Show on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/79698579/Forget the technical jargon. This conversation is about strategy, culture, and embracing the philosophy of "human and, not human or".This episode is essential for Agile coaches and change managers seeking to lead their organizations through AI transformation, focusing on conditions, iteration, and human-centric design.Key Discussion Points for Change Practitioners:Shifting the Narrative: From "Loop" to "Lead" Rachel argues that the common phrase "human in the loop" is "almost derogatory". Instead, AI strategy requires the "human in the lead," meaning humans are taking control of the AI rather than allowing the AI to control us. Jason agrees, noting that while autonomous agents are hyped, a human must always direct and orchestrate the technology.The Role of Context and Conditions AI success is "not about the tech, it's about the conditions surrounding it". Change managers must apply critical process thinking: if you automate a "crappy process," you just get a "quicker, more expensive, but still rubbish process". Success requires treating the AI just like an intern or junior—providing clear instruction, direction, and leadership.Agile and Iteration in the AI Landscape AI systems are never "done and finished". Consistent with Agile principles, AI requires constant monitoring, checking, and iteration because change is constant. The organizational drive for "faster, better, cheaper," often focused purely on reducing headcount, risks leading to "bad quality" outcomes.The Emergence of the AI Champion Jason proposes that change agents are perfectly positioned to morph into AI champions. Change practitioners build relationships and know the most about the organization, having context from "the office junior and the CEO". Rachel offers a framework using five strategic lenses—including Purpose, People, Process, and Practice (continual learns)—to ensure AI adoption is effective.Addressing Cultural Challenges and Shadow AI The discussion tackles why employees often view AI either as a threat coming to take their job or as a tool allowing them to "put their feet up". Furthermore, organizations must contend with "shadow AI"—the widespread, uncontrolled use of AI tools by staff on their phones, even if banned by policy. Change agents must foster the psychological safety needed for employees to experiment, fail fast, and focus on using AI for "donkey work" so they can spend more time on creative and human-led tasks.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------The episode concludes with a powerful metaphor reminding listeners: "Only dead fish go with the flow." Change is inevitable, so choose to be a "live fish" by making choices and having input into your organization's AI futureJason Little is an internationally acclaimed speaker and author of Lean Change Management, Change Agility and Agile Transformation: 4 Steps to Organizational Transformation. That Change Show is a live show where the topics are inspired by Lean Change workshops and lean coffee sessions from around the world. Video versions on Youtube

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• Why The Backlash Against AI May Be More Harmful Than The Hype

  Have ideas for the show? Liked a topic? Let us know!Well, it's been so long I actually forgot I already did episode 1 of season 3!In this episode we talk about why the anti-ai sentiment is more damaging than ai-hype.Jason Little is an internationally acclaimed speaker and author of Lean Change Management, Change Agility and Agile Transformation: 4 Steps to Organizational Transformation. That Change Show is a live show where the topics are inspired by Lean Change workshops and lean coffee sessions from around the world. Video versions on Youtube

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• The Human Side of Change: Satir, Patterns, Systems, and Complexity with Don Gray

  Have ideas for the show? Liked a topic? Let us know!In this episode of That Change Show, Jason sits down with Don Gray for a deep dive into the realities of change management—beyond frameworks, buzzwords, and rigid processes. They explore why change is messy, how emotions and values shape resistance, and why organizations often focus on the wrong levers when trying to transform.Drawing from personal experiences, the Satir Change Model, and insights from complex systems thinking, Jason and Don challenge the traditional right-hand-side approach to change (processes & tools) and emphasize the often-overlooked left-hand-side (culture, strategy, and human dynamics).Along the way, they revisit stories from the Aye Conference, Agile 2012, and Problem Solving Leadership (PSL) workshops, discussing how adaptive thinking, small shifts, and informal change agents can lead to meaningful transformation.What You’ll Learn:✅ Why organizations resist change—and why that’s normal✅ The butterfly effect of small shifts in complex systems✅ How patterns form, evolve, and disrupt change efforts✅ The power of timing, emotions, and informal change agents✅ Why solving problems for people actually makes things worse🎧 Listen now to rethink how you approach change!Watch on YoutubeShow Notes and LinksREITH LECTURES 1970: Change and Industrial Society: https://downloads.bbc.co.uk/rmhttp/radio4/transcripts/1970_reith2.pdfDon's contact informationwebsite: donaldegray.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donaldegray/Mastodon: @[email protected] Change informationwebsite: congruentchange.comLinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/congruent-change/Mastodon: @[email protected]'s Change Mind Map: https://www.congruentchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Change.pdfProblem-solving Leadership informationweb url: https://www.congruentchange.com/problem-solving-leadership/registration request at the bottomdetails for the March workshop ...When: March 20 - April 4, 2025Where: Albuquerque, New MexicoFee: $2995Jerry Weinberghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerald_WeinbergJason Little is an internationally acclaimed speaker and author of Lean Change Management, Change Agility and Agile Transformation: 4 Steps to Organizational Transformation. That Change Show is a live show where the topics are inspired by Lean Change workshops and lean coffee sessions from around the world. Video versions on Youtube

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• Untangling the Organizational Hairball

  Have ideas for the show? Liked a topic? Let us know!Join us for an enlightening conversation as esteemed facilitator Donna Jones ( https://www.dawnajones.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnahjones/) guides us through the complexities of systems thinking in organizational contexts. With a rich backdrop of experience and a reflective nod to our meeting in Estonia 12 years ago, Donna offers profound insights into how organizational systems can influence behavior. We discuss the necessity of adaptability over rigid absolutes and explore how stepping back, much like the fluid movements of sandpipers, can help leaders reassess strategies to foster healthy and responsive systems.We also tackle the often-illusory world of "change theater" in organizations, where superficial transformations hide deeper issues. Using real-life examples, we illuminate the critical role of sensing and recognizing underlying signals to promote genuine change rather than mere performance. By identifying incongruencies and trust issues, change agents can safely navigate organizational dynamics, leading to meaningful transformation. Our discussion underscores the importance of understanding deep-seated organizational patterns to foster authentic progress.Finally, we delve into the intricacies of leadership communication, offering practical techniques for conducting difficult conversations with leaders. From changing the discussion venue to crafting engagement agreements that set clear expectations, we explore ways to foster open and honest interactions. The episode concludes by highlighting the potential of blending diverse generational thinking styles to create vibrant, adaptable workplaces. Embracing agile approaches and non-linear thinkers, we encourage organizations to cultivate cultures that value curiosity and adaptability, ensuring a dynamic and inclusive environment for all.Jason Little is an internationally acclaimed speaker and author of Lean Change Management, Change Agility and Agile Transformation: 4 Steps to Organizational Transformation. That Change Show is a live show where the topics are inspired by Lean Change workshops and lean coffee sessions from around the world. Video versions on Youtube

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• Sense-Making is the New Change Management

  Have ideas for the show? Liked a topic? Let us know!Prefer the video? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAiMBgSByBQCan you transform the chaos of change into an opportunity for growth? Join me, Jason Little, as we tackle the evolving landscape of change management with innovative strategies. Our latest episode promises a fresh perspective, moving beyond the traditional and embracing a sensemaking approach that balances both exploration and action. Discover how to leverage the "last responsible moment" to make crucial decisions and the power of running experiments to foster learning. We shed light on how AI tools can streamline processes and enhance engagement, ensuring that your change initiatives are not only visible but highly effective.Explore the art of building trust and co-creation in organizational change, with stories of successful transformations that prioritize meaningful dialogue over mere communication. Uncover the evolving role of change managers, akin to full-stack developers, who engage leaders in co-creation rather than imposing preset strategies. We'll navigate the complexities of structural and strategic changes, highlighting the five levers of organizational change. Wrapping up with a creative twist, discover how Lego Serious Play isn't just child's play but an impactful tool for tackling complex problems, fostering exploration, and driving meaningful change. Join us as we transform the way change is managed, one innovative approach at a time.Jason Little is an internationally acclaimed speaker and author of Lean Change Management, Change Agility and Agile Transformation: 4 Steps to Organizational Transformation. That Change Show is a live show where the topics are inspired by Lean Change workshops and lean coffee sessions from around the world. Video versions on Youtube

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