Damian Bramanis - Podcast Details

Shows

Org Design PodcastLeading to create a healthy change culture with Ariana PoirierIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, hosts Amy Springer and Tim Brewer welcome Ariana Poirier, a seasoned Change Strategist and consultant. Ariana shares her journey into the world of organizational design, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing change within organizations. She discusses the challenges leaders face when implementing change, including the psychological barriers that individuals encounter. The conversation highlights the significance of emotional intelligence in leadership and the necessity of strategic planning in change management initiatives. Ariana also offers practical advice for leaders to assess engagement within their teams, fostering a culture of agility and adaptability. With...2025-07-1721 min

Human-First AI Marketing Podcast by Avenue9AI's Impact on Org Charts and the Death of the 3-Year Plan with Tim Brewer and Damian BramanisSend us a textIn this episode of Human-First AI Marketing, host Mike Montague sits down with Tim Brewer and Damian Bramanis from Functionly to unpack one of the most urgent questions facing modern leaders: how do you structure a business when AI changes what people actually do? Spoiler alert: it’s not about mass layoffs or robot takeovers. It’s about faster org design cycles, rethinking roles, and helping humans focus on work that matters.If you’re a small marketing director, founder, or executive feeling the squeeze between rapid AI evolution and stagnant org ch...2025-07-0342 min

Org Design PodcastHitting the high notes 🎶 - the art of people-centric org change with Lisa TaylorIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, hosts Amy Springer and Damian chatted with Lisa Taylor from Taylor Stein Consulting (L.T. Consulting), who shares her unexpected journey into the world of organizational design. Starting with a background in music and a series of adventures that led her to teach English in Taiwan, Lisa discusses her transition from performing arts to human capital and organizational consulting. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of focusing on people and behavior change within organizations, rather than solely on processes. Lisa recounts her experiences working at various firms, including Deloitte, where she...2025-07-0315 min

Org Design PodcastBONUS: TSP industry transformation and org design with James Davis of The TSP AdvisoryIn this **bonus** episode of the Org Design Podcast, host Amy Springer welcomes James Davis from The TSP Advisory to discuss the evolving roles and responsibilities within the Technology Services industry. James shares insights on the transformation of Managed Services Providers (MSPs), Systems Integrators (SIs), and Value Added Resellers (VARs) as they adapt to new business models and client needs. He emphasizes the importance of organizational design in navigating growth challenges and optimizing team structures. The conversation highlights the distinct characteristics of each model, the necessity for clear roles and responsibilities, and the financial metrics that guide successful operations. James...2025-06-2635 min

Org Design PodcastThe Time Trap in Org Design: A shared struggle for academics, consultants, and CEOs with Andreas WengerIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, Tim Brewer and Amy Springer welcome Andreas Wenger, a partner at Transforma Consulting, to discuss the intricacies of organizational design. Andreas shares his journey into the field, highlighting how his academic background in organization science laid the foundation for his practical consulting experience. He emphasizes the critical importance of aligning organizational structures with the evolving needs of clients, particularly in complex environments. Andreas recounts a compelling case study involving a care institution that successfully transformed its organizational structure to better serve its changing demographic, navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic...2025-06-1917 min

Org Design Podcast“I Had No Idea Org Design Was Even a Thing!" — Liz Ferguson’s Real-Talk Journey Through Org ChangeIn 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...2025-06-0522 min

Org Design PodcastFriction by Design: Why Your Org Chart Might Be the Real Problem with Herman VantrappenIn 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...2025-05-2229 min

Org Design PodcastWhy True Collaboration is Rare and How to Fix It with Abby AllenIn 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...2025-05-0819 min

Org Design PodcastStrategy First, People Always: Balancing Tough Decisions and Empathy in Org Design with Nicole GeeIn 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...2025-04-2525 min

Org Design PodcastHonor the past while embracing the future in your org design with Ramona Elena-CherciuJoin 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...2025-04-1022 min

Org Design PodcastInclusion in Org Design and creating conditions for EVERYBODY to thrive with Amri B. JohnsonIn 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...2025-03-2729 min

Org Design PodcastMastering the Cube: A Deep Dive into Organizational Design with Dallin WhitfieldIn 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...2025-03-1315 min

Org Design PodcastFrom Science to Strategy: Effective Org Design with Beth GundersonSend us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, hosts Amy Springer and Damian Bramanis interview Beth Gunderson from the University of Southern California's Center for Effective Organizations. Beth shares her unique journey into organizational design, beginning with a background in material science and evolving through various roles in manufacturing and HR. She discusses the importance of understanding organizational dynamics and the intricacies involved in merging two companies. Beth emphasizes the need for effective communication during organizational changes and the significance of providing leaders with the necessary tools and scripts to navigate t...2025-02-2728 min

Org Design PodcastFrom Science to Strategy: Effective Org Design with Beth GundersonJoin 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...2025-02-2728 min

Org Design PodcastBringing Soul Back to Work: Designing for Dignity, Creativity, and Connection with Jardena LondonIn 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 handoff...2025-02-1318 min

Org Design PodcastBringing Soul Back to Work: Designing for Dignity, Creativity, and Connection with Jardena LondonSend us a textIn 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 drai...2025-02-1318 min

Org Design PodcastEmpathy Meets Strategy: How Leaders Transform Organizations with Pallavi SrivistavaSend us a textIn 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...2025-01-3025 min

Org Design PodcastCultivating Love-Driven Success in Business with David HenzelSend us a textIn 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 t...2025-01-1617 min

Org Design PodcastLeading change with curiosity, clarity and human-centricity with Elizabeth Venter and Ross LibbySend us a textIn 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 aboveWhy continuous communication is crucial throughout the entire change processHow seeking clarity rather than certainty leads to better organizational outcomesThe value of experimentation and learning through pilot...2025-01-0225 min

Org Design PodcastBeyond the Day-to-Day: Transforming Technical Experts into Strategic Leaders with Jodie GouldenSend us a textIn 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 understandingPractical techniques for facilitating organizational diagnosis without external consultantsStrategies for helping technically proficient leaders adapt to broader management rolesMethods for addressing organizational overwhelm...2024-12-1921 min

Org Design PodcastHumanizing Leadership: How Modern Organizations Can Build Trust and Drive Growth with Vinisha RathodSend us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, Vinisha Rathod, founder of P3 Studios (People, Partnerships, Purpose), shares her expertise on organizational scaling and leadership development. She introduces her framework of "Five Hindrances to Scaling" which includes focus, family, financials, feedback receptiveness, and funnel efficiency. Vinisha emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between people and positions, particularly as organizations grow and evolve.A key highlight is her discussion on creating healthy organizational cultures, drawing parallels between high-performing sports teams and effective workplace dynamics. She addresses crucial topics such as leadership transition, the...2024-12-0525 min

Org Design PodcastWhy Leaders Need to Embrace Chaos (and Love It) with Carlos Valdes-DapenaSend us a textIn 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...2024-11-2128 min

Org Design PodcastClarity is at the Heart of Org Structure: Mastering Clarity Breaks with Lisa CooperSend us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, Lisa Cooper, an experienced organizational design consultant, shares valuable insights on building effective organizational structures. Key takeaways include:The importance of designing structures for the business rather than for specific individualsThe need to consider future goals when creating organizational structuresThe value of clarity in leadership and organizational designThe benefit of taking "clarity breaks" to think strategically about the businessLisa emphasizes the significance of putting the business and its mission first when designing organizational structures. She advises against creating roles for specific individuals...2024-11-0723 min

Org Design PodcastAligning Teams and Decoding Resistance: Brandon Curry's Guide to LeadershipSend us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, Brandon Curry shares insights on organizational design and leadership. Key points include:The importance of understanding roles and their interrelations in an organizationRecognizing resistance as a sign of engagement and progress in organizational changeThe value of specific questions and conversations in gauging organizational healthAnalogies between organizational dynamics and music or sports teamsRecommendations for resources on organizational design, including works by Kates Kesler and the Center for Effective OrganizationsThe significance of participative design and including more of the organization in the processThe application of continuous...2024-10-2417 min

Org Design PodcastScaling with Intention: How to Address Growing Pains in Your Organization with Alix PrassasSend us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, host Tim Brewer interviews Alix Prassis, an organizational design expert and founder of Culture Elevation Consulting. Alix shares her unique journey into org design, from growing up in a family business to her diverse experiences in HR, learning and engagement, and DEI roles. She discusses the importance of proactive organizational design, addressing growing pains in scaling companies, and the common symptoms of structural issues in organizations. Alix emphasizes the need for leaders to look beyond quick fixes and consider broader systemic solutions, highlighting the value...2024-10-1026 min

Org Design PodcastMoving Beyond Budget Cuts: Aligning Org Design with Strategy with Cynthia EscamillaSend us a textIn this episode of the Org Design Podcast, Cynthia Escamilla, an experienced organizational design consultant, shares insights on effective org design practices. She emphasizes the importance of looking at the bigger picture when addressing organizational issues, rather than just changing roles or people. Cynthia advises leaders to focus on strategic goals and align organizational structure accordingly. She discusses common pitfalls in org design, such as mislabeling budget cuts as reorganization. Cynthia also highlights the iterative nature of org design, suggesting that leaders should plan for continuous adaptation. She explains her consulting approach, which...2024-09-2616 min

Org Design PodcastFuture-Proofing Organizations: Joemmy Ramirez & Mary Selden on Internal Organizational Design Team SuccessSend us a textUnlocking the Future of Organizational Design: In this episode from the Org Design Festival, experts Joemmy Ramirez and Mary Selden, join Podcast hosts Tim Brewer and Amy Springer, explore the art and science of developing effective organizational design functions within large organizations. They discuss unconventional career paths and innovative approaches to modern organizational challenges, along with the crucial elements for reshaping and future-proofing organizational structures. Joemmy and Mary provide invaluable advice for leaders, highlighting the importance of adaptability, strategic foresight, and the evolving role of technology in organizational design....2024-09-1227 min

Org Design PodcastBuilding Resilient Organizations: Steve Garcia on Navigating Effectiveness in Today’s Rapidly Changing WorldSend us a textIn this podcast, Tim Brewer, Amy Springer, and Steve Garcia explore the evolving landscape of organizational design. Steve, who began consulting in 2005, emphasizes that org design encompasses more than just structure, including processes, culture, and informal networks.Steve highlights how rapid technological changes, particularly AI, are making traditional leadership approaches obsolete. His company, Contemporary Leadership Advisors (CLA), assists leaders in navigating these changes, often when they feel overwhelmed by ineffective traditional practices.The discussion touches on AI's impact on productivity and organizational connections. Steve advises leaders to start with...2024-08-2924 min

Org Design PodcastImpact-Driven Businesses and the power of Org Design with Kiersten RippeteauSend us a textKiersten Rippeteau discusses her journey into organizational design, starting from internal consulting in healthcare to external consulting in the construction industry. She emphasizes the importance of understanding organizational systems and human behaviors. Rippeteau highlights the need for clear strategy, values, and effective communication within organizations. She also touches on the impact of AI in consulting and construction, stressing the importance of maintaining a human lens. Rippeteau's firm, New Commodity, focuses on practical, impact-driven business models to improve organizational effectiveness and positive societal impact.Support the show 2024-08-1520 min

Org Design PodcastDesigning product orgs of the future with Gary Cohen of Practical AgilitySend us a textGary Cohen, owner of Practical Agility, discusses his journey from software development to organizational design, emphasizing the importance of aligning incentives, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and focusing on customer outcomes. He highlights the need for continuous product discovery and learning to improve efficiency and effectiveness in product teams. Cohen also addresses the increasing demand for rapid organizational changes and the potential impact of AI on product development. He advises leaders to create group goals, provide autonomy to product teams, and maintain strong customer relationships to drive better outcomes.Support the show 2024-08-0121 min

Org Design PodcastProfessor and Practitioner: Strategy, Power and Politics, and Curiosity in Org Design with Chris WorleySend us a textIn this Org Design Podcast episode from the Organizational Design Festival 2024, Chris Worley shares his fascinating journey in organizational design. We explore the common signs of org design issues, the importance of strategy in effective org design, and the challenges of power and politics in implementation. Chris emphasizes the significance of curiosity, trust-building, and the role of leaders in fostering psychological safety during organizational change. Tune in for insightful stories, practical advice, and a deep dive into the art and science of creating well-structured, adaptive organizations.00:00:00 - Introduction and Welcome00:00:36...2024-07-1830 min

Org Design PodcastInsights on Org Design from Shubha Narayanan on AI, Collaboration, and the UNSPEND ModelSend us a textIn the latest episode of the Org Design Podcast, hosts Tim Brewer and Amy Springer welcome Shubha Narayanan, a partner at OrgSmith, to discuss all things organization design and workforce transformation. Shubha shares her insights on the evolving role of org design, emphasizing the importance of solving problems through people and processes rather than mere structures. She delves into her journey from working at KPMG to leading OrgSmith, highlighting the importance of aligning organizational structures with business strategies. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on org design, the need for...2024-07-1121 min

Org Design PodcastUnlocking Org Success: from Paul Tolchinsky, a founding father of modern org designSend us a textPaul Tolchinsky discusses his journey into organizational design, emphasizing the importance of human interaction and systemic thinking over traditional hierarchical structures. He highlights the need for leaders to embrace resistance, engage with employees at all levels, and create adaptive, responsive systems. Tolchinsky advocates for leaders to ask good questions, listen, and integrate diverse perspectives to foster a more inclusive and effective organizational environment. He also mentions his new venture, Change Accelerators, aimed at leveraging experienced professionals to drive meaningful change.Support the show 2024-07-0417 min

Org Design PodcastLeading with Empathy: CEO Drew Sechrist on key org design decisions and navigating a down-sizeSend us a textDrew Sechrist, CEO of Connect the Dots, discusses the challenges of organizational design and the importance of empathy in leadership. He shares his experience of having to lay off 20% of his company, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and support for affected team members. Sechrist also highlights the benefits of having a geographically diverse team, with operations in both the United States and Serbia, and how the company has adapted to remote work.Support the show 2024-06-2437 min

Org Design PodcastRole, goal and decision clarity, and why you should never design around a person with Ron SchwartzSend us a textIn the podcast interview, Ron Schwartz discusses the importance of organizational design, emphasizing the need to identify roles, goals, and decision rights. He advises against designing an organization around individuals, instead suggesting to design around what is needed to execute strategy and plans. Schwartz also highlights the importance of open conversations in the organization, particularly when dealing with changes. He suggests that leaders should have the ability to deliberately design a conversation, considering the outcome and impact they want to have on the other person.Support the show 2024-04-1033 min

Org Design PodcastGrowing a company from 6 to 120+ and getting thrown into Org Design with CEO Tom DouglasSend us a textDiscover the secrets to creating adaptable organizations and accelerating business growth with Tom Douglas, the CEO of JMARK. In this engaging podcast episode, Tom shares his valuable insights on the importance of org design, clear responsibilities, and aligning with customer and employee needs. Learn from his experiences and gain practical tips for building a successful business in today's dynamic landscape.Listen now and unlock the potential of effective org design! #Podcast #OrgDesign #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipLessonsSupport the show 2023-12-1126 min