Thoughts on Change: How to herd humans without losing your mind Thu, 14 May 2026 00:05:14 -0400 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2574583 en-us © 2026 Thoughts on Change: How to herd humans without losing your mind yes b5a9896f-02d3-54b3-8503-25b25afd2af9 Kelly Mallery episodic false This podcast about the messy, political, emotional, deeply human side of leading change. Around here, we talk about how to move culture, how to build credibility, and how to influence without bulldozing. Basically: how to herd humans without losing your mind.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Kelly Mallery https://storage.buzzsprout.com/y6i6wvrem8sugx1b41yb82bcj1vn?.jpg Thoughts on Change: How to herd humans without losing your mind Episode 11 - Are you overhelping your team? Helping with intention in CI. Episode 11 - Are you overhelping your team? Helping with intention in CI. If you work in CI, helping probably feels like second nature. In fact, it’s probably one of the reasons you got into this work in the first place. But here’s the uncomfortable question we’re digging into today: Is your helping actually helping?

There’s a fine line between helping people grow and accidentally creating dependence. And if you cross that line, your help can quietly become harmful—for them and for you.

The Hidden Trap for CI Leaders

Many of us in CI become the scheduler, organizer, reminder system, problem solver, answer machine. At first, that support may be necessary. But over time? You can unintentionally train teams to rely on you instead of building their own capability. That’s when frustration grows, burnout starts creeping in, resistance increases, and you become the bottleneck in the very change you’re trying to create.

What You’ll Learn

In this episode, we continue the C.H.A.N.G.E. Shaper™ series by unpacking the second characteristic:

Help with Intention

You’ll learn:

  • the difference between helpful help and hurtful help
  • how overhelping creates dependency in teams
  • how to recognize when you’ve crossed the “helpful line”
  • practical ways to step back without abandoning people
  • how boundaries can actually increase your credibility and respect

The Vicious Cycle of Overhelping

Overhelping creates a pattern that looks like this:

You step in to help: → people depend on you → you become overwhelmed → frustration builds → resistance increases → burnout follows.

Helping with Intention Looks Different

Helping with intention does not mean abandoning people, withholding support, or saying “figure it out yourself”. It means being intentional about what support they actually need, what capability they need to build next, and how you can help them grow without becoming dependent on you.

Powerful Questions to Ask Instead of Giving Answers

One of the biggest shifts? Moving from answering to asking. Some favorite coaching questions from the episode:

  • “What problem are you trying to solve?”
  • “What do you already know about that?”
  • “How could you find that out?”
  • “Who else might know more about this?”
  • “How could you test your understanding?”

Sometimes giving the answer quickly is just another form of doing the work for them. And as uncomfortable as it can feel, stepping back may actually be the most supportive thing you can do.

Reflection Questions

Think about a current project or team you’re supporting. Ask yourself:

  • Where am I stepping in too quickly?
  • Who am I unintentionally training to depend on me?
  • Am I helping because it’s best for them… or because it feels safer for me?
  • What question could I ask instead of giving the answer?

The Shift

Helping with intention shifts you: from hero to leader. That’s where sustainable change starts to happen.

What’s Next

Next up in the C.H.A.N.G.E. Shaper™ series: Advocating for What Is Really Important

In noisy organizations, helping people improve isn’t enough—you also need to know how to connect change to what truly matters.

Want More Support?

Most of the women I work with aren’t struggling because they lack knowledge or skill.

They’re struggling because their approach isn’t landing the way they think it is. They’re overhelping and overexplaining. And exhausting themselves trying to create change.

That’s exactly what we work through inside Credible. Heard. Used.

You’ll find more information here

Video

]]> If you work in CI, helping probably feels like second nature. In fact, it’s probably one of the reasons you got into this work in the first place. But here’s the uncomfortable question we’re digging into today: Is your helping actually helping?

There’s a fine line between helping people grow and accidentally creating dependence. And if you cross that line, your help can quietly become harmful—for them and for you.

The Hidden Trap for CI Leaders

Many of us in CI become the scheduler, organizer, reminder system, problem solver, answer machine. At first, that support may be necessary. But over time? You can unintentionally train teams to rely on you instead of building their own capability. That’s when frustration grows, burnout starts creeping in, resistance increases, and you become the bottleneck in the very change you’re trying to create.

What You’ll Learn

In this episode, we continue the C.H.A.N.G.E. Shaper™ series by unpacking the second characteristic:

Help with Intention

You’ll learn:

  • the difference between helpful help and hurtful help
  • how overhelping creates dependency in teams
  • how to recognize when you’ve crossed the “helpful line”
  • practical ways to step back without abandoning people
  • how boundaries can actually increase your credibility and respect

The Vicious Cycle of Overhelping

Overhelping creates a pattern that looks like this:

You step in to help: → people depend on you → you become overwhelmed → frustration builds → resistance increases → burnout follows.

Helping with Intention Looks Different

Helping with intention does not mean abandoning people, withholding support, or saying “figure it out yourself”. It means being intentional about what support they actually need, what capability they need to build next, and how you can help them grow without becoming dependent on you.

Powerful Questions to Ask Instead of Giving Answers

One of the biggest shifts? Moving from answering to asking. Some favorite coaching questions from the episode:

  • “What problem are you trying to solve?”
  • “What do you already know about that?”
  • “How could you find that out?”
  • “Who else might know more about this?”
  • “How could you test your understanding?”

Sometimes giving the answer quickly is just another form of doing the work for them. And as uncomfortable as it can feel, stepping back may actually be the most supportive thing you can do.

Reflection Questions

Think about a current project or team you’re supporting. Ask yourself:

  • Where am I stepping in too quickly?
  • Who am I unintentionally training to depend on me?
  • Am I helping because it’s best for them… or because it feels safer for me?
  • What question could I ask instead of giving the answer?

The Shift

Helping with intention shifts you: from hero to leader. That’s where sustainable change starts to happen.

What’s Next

Next up in the C.H.A.N.G.E. Shaper™ series: Advocating for What Is Really Important

In noisy organizations, helping people improve isn’t enough—you also need to know how to connect change to what truly matters.

Want More Support?

Most of the women I work with aren’t struggling because they lack knowledge or skill.

They’re struggling because their approach isn’t landing the way they think it is. They’re overhelping and overexplaining. And exhausting themselves trying to create change.

That’s exactly what we work through inside Credible. Heard. Used.

You’ll find more information here

Video

]]> Kelly Mallery Buzzsprout-19163569 Thu, 14 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400 768 full false Episode 10 - Stop Treating People Like Projects: The Real Secret to Influence in CI Episode 10 - Stop Treating People Like Projects: The Real Secret to Influence in CI If you’re struggling to get engagement with your change efforts, there’s a good chance the problem isn’t their resistance…

…it’s your lack of connection.

I know—this one can sting a little.

In Continuous Improvement, we’re trained to focus on tools, systems, and results. But the truth is, none of those things work without people. And when we stop seeing people as people—and start seeing them as the means to get our change implemented—we unintentionally invite the very resistance we’re trying to avoid.

In this episode, we kick off the C.H.A.N.G.E. Shaper™ series with the foundation of everything:


 Connecting with curiosity and compassion.

And no—this is not “soft stuff.”

This is skilled work.
This is influence.
This is what makes change actually stick.


What You’ll Learn

  • Why pushing harder often creates more resistance 
  • What it really means to “connect” (without oversharing or crossing boundaries) 
  • The 3 simple steps to connect with people in real time: 
     1: Read the room, 2: Meet people where they are, 3: Ask permission before diving into change 
  • How curiosity helps you avoid assumptions and actually understand what’s going on 
  • Why compassion doesn’t mean agreeing—it means understanding 
  • How resistance is often rooted in fear and uncertainty (not defiance) 

The Shift

When you lead change without connection, people feel:

  • managed 
  • pushed 
  • overlooked 

When you lead with curiosity and compassion, people feel:

  • seen 
  • respected 
  • willing to engage 

And that shift?
That’s where credibility starts to build.

Try This

Think about a change you’re working on right now.

Now think about one person you need on board.

Ask yourself:

  • Did I actually connect with them as a person? 
  • Did I read the room before jumping in? 
  • Did I ask for permission—or just push forward? 
  • Did I come in curious… or already convinced I knew the answer? 
  • Did I make them feel understood—or dismissed? 

No judgment here. Just awareness.

Because awareness is where better choices start.

Key Reminder

Connection is not soft work.
 It’s skilled work.

And it’s where real influence—and real change—begins.

What’s Next

In the next episode, we’ll build on this foundation and talk about the second characteristic of a C.H.A.N.G.E. Shaper™:

Helping with intention — and why the way you help might actually be slowing people down.

Want More Support?

If this episode had you thinking, “Wow… I’ve definitely been there,” you’re not alone.

I’m opening up a small group experience for women in Continuous Improvement:

Credible. Heard. Used.

This is for you if:

  • Your ideas aren’t landing the way you intend 
  • You’re feeling resistance and not sure why 
  • You want to influence without pushing harder 

Check out the link below.

 

00:00 Engagement Isn’t the Problem

00:57 Meet the CHANGE Shaper

01:54 Why Connection Matters

04:08 Three Steps to Connect

06:57 Example Conversation With Kim

08:56 Curiosity Builds Clarity

12:12 Compassion Isn’t Caving

14:45 Reflect and Apply Today

16:31 Wrap Up and What’s Next

16:57 Program Invite and Closing

 

Links:

https://www.kellymallery.com/changeshaper

https://www.kellymallery.com/credibleheardused

Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v

]]> If you’re struggling to get engagement with your change efforts, there’s a good chance the problem isn’t their resistance…

…it’s your lack of connection.

I know—this one can sting a little.

In Continuous Improvement, we’re trained to focus on tools, systems, and results. But the truth is, none of those things work without people. And when we stop seeing people as people—and start seeing them as the means to get our change implemented—we unintentionally invite the very resistance we’re trying to avoid.

In this episode, we kick off the C.H.A.N.G.E. Shaper™ series with the foundation of everything:


 Connecting with curiosity and compassion.

And no—this is not “soft stuff.”

This is skilled work.
This is influence.
This is what makes change actually stick.


What You’ll Learn

  • Why pushing harder often creates more resistance 
  • What it really means to “connect” (without oversharing or crossing boundaries) 
  • The 3 simple steps to connect with people in real time: 
     1: Read the room, 2: Meet people where they are, 3: Ask permission before diving into change 
  • How curiosity helps you avoid assumptions and actually understand what’s going on 
  • Why compassion doesn’t mean agreeing—it means understanding 
  • How resistance is often rooted in fear and uncertainty (not defiance) 

The Shift

When you lead change without connection, people feel:

  • managed 
  • pushed 
  • overlooked 

When you lead with curiosity and compassion, people feel:

  • seen 
  • respected 
  • willing to engage 

And that shift?
That’s where credibility starts to build.

Try This

Think about a change you’re working on right now.

Now think about one person you need on board.

Ask yourself:

  • Did I actually connect with them as a person? 
  • Did I read the room before jumping in? 
  • Did I ask for permission—or just push forward? 
  • Did I come in curious… or already convinced I knew the answer? 
  • Did I make them feel understood—or dismissed? 

No judgment here. Just awareness.

Because awareness is where better choices start.

Key Reminder

Connection is not soft work.
 It’s skilled work.

And it’s where real influence—and real change—begins.

What’s Next

In the next episode, we’ll build on this foundation and talk about the second characteristic of a C.H.A.N.G.E. Shaper™:

Helping with intention — and why the way you help might actually be slowing people down.

Want More Support?

If this episode had you thinking, “Wow… I’ve definitely been there,” you’re not alone.

I’m opening up a small group experience for women in Continuous Improvement:

Credible. Heard. Used.

This is for you if:

  • Your ideas aren’t landing the way you intend 
  • You’re feeling resistance and not sure why 
  • You want to influence without pushing harder 

Check out the link below.

 

00:00 Engagement Isn’t the Problem

00:57 Meet the CHANGE Shaper

01:54 Why Connection Matters

04:08 Three Steps to Connect

06:57 Example Conversation With Kim

08:56 Curiosity Builds Clarity

12:12 Compassion Isn’t Caving

14:45 Reflect and Apply Today

16:31 Wrap Up and What’s Next

16:57 Program Invite and Closing

 

Links:

https://www.kellymallery.com/changeshaper

https://www.kellymallery.com/credibleheardused

Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v

]]> Kelly Mallery Buzzsprout-19106204 Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400 1086 full false Episode 9 - Herding Humans, a new way to lead change Episode 9 - Herding Humans, a new way to lead change In this episode of “Thoughts on Change,” Kelly proposes a shift from pushing change to “shaping what’s possible” through credibility and influence. She defines a “change shaper” as someone who shows up effectively when resistance appears, regardless of title, and outlines six characteristics: connect with curiosity and compassion to create safety; help with intention to build others’ capability without rescuing; advocate for what truly matters by linking change to purpose, values, and priorities; navigate the business environment by understanding pressures, informal networks, and organizational politics while translating between leaders and frontline teams; get the right people involved rather than convincing everyone; and energize positive momentum by celebrating small wins and highlighting progress. She emphasizes practice over perfection and previews deeper future episodes.


00:00 Why Change Pushes Back

00:33 Meet Thoughts on Change

01:02 Becoming a Change Shaper

02:20 Connect with Curiosity

03:21 Help with Intention

04:03 Advocate What Matters

04:43 Navigate Business Politics

05:38 Get the Right People

06:19 Energize Momentum

06:56 Practice Over Perfection

07:20 Wrap Up and Next Steps

 

Links:

https://youtu.be/yjrXy_0Z2Xc

https://www.kellymallery.com/changeshaper

]]> In this episode of “Thoughts on Change,” Kelly proposes a shift from pushing change to “shaping what’s possible” through credibility and influence. She defines a “change shaper” as someone who shows up effectively when resistance appears, regardless of title, and outlines six characteristics: connect with curiosity and compassion to create safety; help with intention to build others’ capability without rescuing; advocate for what truly matters by linking change to purpose, values, and priorities; navigate the business environment by understanding pressures, informal networks, and organizational politics while translating between leaders and frontline teams; get the right people involved rather than convincing everyone; and energize positive momentum by celebrating small wins and highlighting progress. She emphasizes practice over perfection and previews deeper future episodes.


00:00 Why Change Pushes Back

00:33 Meet Thoughts on Change

01:02 Becoming a Change Shaper

02:20 Connect with Curiosity

03:21 Help with Intention

04:03 Advocate What Matters

04:43 Navigate Business Politics

05:38 Get the Right People

06:19 Energize Momentum

06:56 Practice Over Perfection

07:20 Wrap Up and Next Steps

 

Links:

https://youtu.be/yjrXy_0Z2Xc

https://www.kellymallery.com/changeshaper

]]> Kelly Mallery Buzzsprout-19023741 Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400 509 full false Episode 8 - Building a bridge from credibility to shaping change Episode 8 - Building a bridge from credibility to shaping change Kelly introduces Thoughts On Change as a podcast about the human side of leading change and explains the recent progression from “Resistobots” (internal reactions to discomfort) to the Transform framework and now a focus on credibility. She shares feedback, especially from women in continuous improvement roles, who are doing the work but want to be trusted to lead real change. Kelly argues credibility isn’t an add-on or ego-driven goal but an outcome that emerges from how leaders respond under pressure, handle pushback, balance empathy with direction, and move change forward without steamrolling people. By noticing Resistobots and shifting from automatic reactions to observing, revealing root causes, and making alliances, leaders reduce feelings of being managed and build momentum without burnout. She names this way of being “the change shaper,” previews upcoming practical applications (“being fluent in change”), and invites listeners to the next episode.

 

00:00 Welcome to the Show

00:36 Series Shift Explained

01:19 Why Credibility Matters

02:05 Credibility Emerges

03:11 Becoming a Change Shaper

04:34 You Are Right on Time

05:01 Fluent in Change Preview

06:05 Next Episode Teaser

06:21 Closing and Sendoff

 

Links:

https://www.kellymallery.com/thoughtsonchange

 

Video:

https://youtu.be/-RlhNi37Duo

]]> Kelly introduces Thoughts On Change as a podcast about the human side of leading change and explains the recent progression from “Resistobots” (internal reactions to discomfort) to the Transform framework and now a focus on credibility. She shares feedback, especially from women in continuous improvement roles, who are doing the work but want to be trusted to lead real change. Kelly argues credibility isn’t an add-on or ego-driven goal but an outcome that emerges from how leaders respond under pressure, handle pushback, balance empathy with direction, and move change forward without steamrolling people. By noticing Resistobots and shifting from automatic reactions to observing, revealing root causes, and making alliances, leaders reduce feelings of being managed and build momentum without burnout. She names this way of being “the change shaper,” previews upcoming practical applications (“being fluent in change”), and invites listeners to the next episode.

 

00:00 Welcome to the Show

00:36 Series Shift Explained

01:19 Why Credibility Matters

02:05 Credibility Emerges

03:11 Becoming a Change Shaper

04:34 You Are Right on Time

05:01 Fluent in Change Preview

06:05 Next Episode Teaser

06:21 Closing and Sendoff

 

Links:

https://www.kellymallery.com/thoughtsonchange

 

Video:

https://youtu.be/-RlhNi37Duo

]]> Kelly Mallery Buzzsprout-18921514 Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400 406 full false Episode 7 - CI Warrior Series: Abby Kovarik on Muda, Culture Change, and Leading with Heart Episode 7 - CI Warrior Series: Abby Kovarik on Muda, Culture Change, and Leading with Heart Kelly Mallery introduces the first CI Warrior interview on Thoughts On Change with Abby Kovarik, a continuous improvement specialist at Raymond Corp (a Toyota Material Handling brand), who focuses on strengthening people, clarifying work, and building problem-solving confidence. Abby shares how an internship during college led her into lean, including a mindset shift about inventory as waste, and defines muda through the TIMWOODS wastes, emphasizing unused skills as especially important. She discusses early challenges as a young woman in a male-dominated environment, learning to manage emotions, communicate passion professionally, and recognize the human side of change. Abby describes 12 weeks of coaching with Kelly that helped her slow down, notice control patterns, and become more intentional. She now prioritizes culture change by enabling teams and engaging leadership so lean becomes “how we do business,” advising others that they don’t need to fix things to be valuable.

 

00:00 Welcome to Thoughts On Change

00:34 Meet Abby Kovarik

02:36 Abby’s CI Origin Story

04:25 Lean Mindset Shift

06:22 Muda and TIMWOODS

10:49 Choosing a CI Career

12:40 Challenges as a Woman

17:26 Bringing the Human Element

20:37 Coaching Takeaways

23:12 From Doer to Culture Builder

26:12 Advice for CI Warriors

28:35 Connect and Wrap Up

 

Connect with Abby Kovarik:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/abby-kovarik-b81519202/


Video:

https://youtu.be/jrBTr9PXM0s

]]> Kelly Mallery introduces the first CI Warrior interview on Thoughts On Change with Abby Kovarik, a continuous improvement specialist at Raymond Corp (a Toyota Material Handling brand), who focuses on strengthening people, clarifying work, and building problem-solving confidence. Abby shares how an internship during college led her into lean, including a mindset shift about inventory as waste, and defines muda through the TIMWOODS wastes, emphasizing unused skills as especially important. She discusses early challenges as a young woman in a male-dominated environment, learning to manage emotions, communicate passion professionally, and recognize the human side of change. Abby describes 12 weeks of coaching with Kelly that helped her slow down, notice control patterns, and become more intentional. She now prioritizes culture change by enabling teams and engaging leadership so lean becomes “how we do business,” advising others that they don’t need to fix things to be valuable.

 

00:00 Welcome to Thoughts On Change

00:34 Meet Abby Kovarik

02:36 Abby’s CI Origin Story

04:25 Lean Mindset Shift

06:22 Muda and TIMWOODS

10:49 Choosing a CI Career

12:40 Challenges as a Woman

17:26 Bringing the Human Element

20:37 Coaching Takeaways

23:12 From Doer to Culture Builder

26:12 Advice for CI Warriors

28:35 Connect and Wrap Up

 

Connect with Abby Kovarik:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/abby-kovarik-b81519202/


Video:

https://youtu.be/jrBTr9PXM0s

]]> Kelly Mallery Buzzsprout-18840778 Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400 1786 full false Episode 6 - Getting results that matter, which layer of the problem are you solving? Episode 6 - Getting results that matter, which layer of the problem are you solving? Kelly explains that even with integrity, clear intent, relationships, and gemba time, credibility won’t stick without delivering results—solving not only the requested problem but also the hidden, unspoken one. She describes three layers behind common CI requests like “we need 5S”: the surface tool request, the performance gap (missed output, delays, excess inventory), and the deeper systems-and-behaviors layer where cultural friction determines whether change sustains. Implementing only what’s asked can actually hurt credibility because leaders expect the real problem to be solved. Kelly emphasizes two skills to reach deeper layers: insatiable curiosity through strong questions and judgment-free observation. In a 5S example, she uncovered output issues and leadership behaviors, coached both the team lead and leader, solved all three layers, and became a trusted cultural partner. She closes with actionable questions, a share/subscribe request, workshop offer, and a teaser for a first CI Warrior interview episode.

00:00 Credibility Needs Results

01:57 Why Tools Alone Fail

03:43 Three Layers of Problems

06:03 Skills to Go Deeper

06:25 5S Story in Practice

10:57 Action Steps and Questions

12:24 Share Subscribe Next Episode

13:22 Final Wrap and Mantra

 

Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vl7E_s4YF7k

 

Links:

https://www.kellymallery.com/workshops

]]> Kelly explains that even with integrity, clear intent, relationships, and gemba time, credibility won’t stick without delivering results—solving not only the requested problem but also the hidden, unspoken one. She describes three layers behind common CI requests like “we need 5S”: the surface tool request, the performance gap (missed output, delays, excess inventory), and the deeper systems-and-behaviors layer where cultural friction determines whether change sustains. Implementing only what’s asked can actually hurt credibility because leaders expect the real problem to be solved. Kelly emphasizes two skills to reach deeper layers: insatiable curiosity through strong questions and judgment-free observation. In a 5S example, she uncovered output issues and leadership behaviors, coached both the team lead and leader, solved all three layers, and became a trusted cultural partner. She closes with actionable questions, a share/subscribe request, workshop offer, and a teaser for a first CI Warrior interview episode.

00:00 Credibility Needs Results

01:57 Why Tools Alone Fail

03:43 Three Layers of Problems

06:03 Skills to Go Deeper

06:25 5S Story in Practice

10:57 Action Steps and Questions

12:24 Share Subscribe Next Episode

13:22 Final Wrap and Mantra

 

Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vl7E_s4YF7k

 

Links:

https://www.kellymallery.com/workshops

]]> Kelly Mallery Buzzsprout-18792188 Thu, 05 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500 830 full false Episode 5 - Intent, the invisible driver behind change Episode 5 - Intent, the invisible driver behind change In this episode of 'Thoughts on Change,' Kelly explores the critical role of intent in building credibility during change initiatives. Understanding that people judge us based on our behavior while we judge ourselves by our intent is crucial. Kelly discusses how to bridge this gap by clearly stating our intentions and ensuring our actions align with them. She offers practical steps for examining and declaring your motives and stresses the importance of assuming positive intent to maintain trust. Tune in for actionable insights on how to influence change effectively without losing your credibility.

 

00:00 Introduction to Intent and Credibility

01:15 Understanding Intent: Motives and Perceptions

03:11 Real-Life Example: The Hour-by-Hour Tracking System

04:10 Lessons on Declaring and Aligning Intent

07:20 Practical Tips for Building Credibility

08:38 Conclusion and Next Steps


 Video:

https://youtu.be/ZmGb5bRjFtU 


Links:

https://www.kellymallery.com/coaching

]]> In this episode of 'Thoughts on Change,' Kelly explores the critical role of intent in building credibility during change initiatives. Understanding that people judge us based on our behavior while we judge ourselves by our intent is crucial. Kelly discusses how to bridge this gap by clearly stating our intentions and ensuring our actions align with them. She offers practical steps for examining and declaring your motives and stresses the importance of assuming positive intent to maintain trust. Tune in for actionable insights on how to influence change effectively without losing your credibility.

 

00:00 Introduction to Intent and Credibility

01:15 Understanding Intent: Motives and Perceptions

03:11 Real-Life Example: The Hour-by-Hour Tracking System

04:10 Lessons on Declaring and Aligning Intent

07:20 Practical Tips for Building Credibility

08:38 Conclusion and Next Steps


 Video:

https://youtu.be/ZmGb5bRjFtU 


Links:

https://www.kellymallery.com/coaching

]]> Kelly Mallery Buzzsprout-18643891 Fri, 20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500 582 full false Episode 4 - The #1 reason CI practitioners aren’t heard (and how to fix it) Episode 4 - The #1 reason CI practitioners aren’t heard (and how to fix it) In this episode of 'Thoughts on Change,' host Kelly delves into the discrepancy CI (Continuous Improvement) professionals often feel between their potential contributions and the tasks leaders assign to them. Emphasizing the politics, emotions, and human aspects of leading change, Kelly explores why CI practitioners struggle with credibility and influence. The discussion focuses on integrity as a cornerstone of credibility, highlighting its practical and visible nature in leadership roles. Through personal anecdotes and actionable advice, listeners learn how to align their actions with their words and values, thereby enhancing their credibility and fostering culture change. The episode sets the stage for future discussions on influence and credibility, inviting listeners to follow on social media for more insights.

00:00 Introduction: The CI Role Dilemma

00:23 Welcome to Thoughts on Change

00:53 The Credibility Challenge

02:16 Understanding Integrity in CI

02:54 Practical Examples of Integrity

04:23 Dealing with Integrity Gaps

05:24 Building Credibility Through Integrity

06:25 Conclusion and Next Steps

06:59 Closing Remarks


 Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DidskX0jgDM


Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-mallery-coaching/

https://www.instagram.com/kellymallerycoaching/

]]> In this episode of 'Thoughts on Change,' host Kelly delves into the discrepancy CI (Continuous Improvement) professionals often feel between their potential contributions and the tasks leaders assign to them. Emphasizing the politics, emotions, and human aspects of leading change, Kelly explores why CI practitioners struggle with credibility and influence. The discussion focuses on integrity as a cornerstone of credibility, highlighting its practical and visible nature in leadership roles. Through personal anecdotes and actionable advice, listeners learn how to align their actions with their words and values, thereby enhancing their credibility and fostering culture change. The episode sets the stage for future discussions on influence and credibility, inviting listeners to follow on social media for more insights.

00:00 Introduction: The CI Role Dilemma

00:23 Welcome to Thoughts on Change

00:53 The Credibility Challenge

02:16 Understanding Integrity in CI

02:54 Practical Examples of Integrity

04:23 Dealing with Integrity Gaps

05:24 Building Credibility Through Integrity

06:25 Conclusion and Next Steps

06:59 Closing Remarks


 Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DidskX0jgDM


Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-mallery-coaching/

https://www.instagram.com/kellymallerycoaching/

]]> Kelly Mallery Buzzsprout-18632956 Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500 466 full false Episode 3 - We Don't Just Face Resistance...We Create It Episode 3 - We Don't Just Face Resistance...We Create It In this episode of Thoughts On Change, Kelly discusses how change leaders often create the resistance they face and introduces various archetypes, dubbed 'Resistobots,' which embody different counterproductive behaviors. These include Commandax (the controller), Factron (the rational), Softstep (the accommodator), Shellout (the avoider), Quickshift (the fixer), and Doctrina (the preacher). Kelly shares a personal story about encountering resistance at an aerospace manufacturer and explains how identifying and addressing the root causes of resistance, rather than fighting it, leads to more effective change management. Listeners are encouraged to transform their approach by facing their resist bots, observing the scene, revealing roots of resistance, and making alliances with empathy and curiosity.

00:00 Introduction to Thoughts On Change

00:49 Understanding Resistance in Change

01:51 Types of Resistance Fighters

02:43 Real-Life Example: Overcoming Resistance

04:49 Meet the Resist Bots

07:06 Defeating Your Resist Bots

09:16 Conclusion and Resources


Podcast Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYi9x8aLdrQ

https://www.kellymallery.com/workshops

https://www.kellymallery.com/findyourresistobot

https://www.kellymallery.com/transform

]]> In this episode of Thoughts On Change, Kelly discusses how change leaders often create the resistance they face and introduces various archetypes, dubbed 'Resistobots,' which embody different counterproductive behaviors. These include Commandax (the controller), Factron (the rational), Softstep (the accommodator), Shellout (the avoider), Quickshift (the fixer), and Doctrina (the preacher). Kelly shares a personal story about encountering resistance at an aerospace manufacturer and explains how identifying and addressing the root causes of resistance, rather than fighting it, leads to more effective change management. Listeners are encouraged to transform their approach by facing their resist bots, observing the scene, revealing roots of resistance, and making alliances with empathy and curiosity.

00:00 Introduction to Thoughts On Change

00:49 Understanding Resistance in Change

01:51 Types of Resistance Fighters

02:43 Real-Life Example: Overcoming Resistance

04:49 Meet the Resist Bots

07:06 Defeating Your Resist Bots

09:16 Conclusion and Resources


Podcast Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYi9x8aLdrQ

https://www.kellymallery.com/workshops

https://www.kellymallery.com/findyourresistobot

https://www.kellymallery.com/transform

]]> Kelly Mallery Buzzsprout-18557756 Fri, 23 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0500 608 full false Episode 2 - People Don't Hate Change, They Hate the Future They Picture Episode 2 - People Don't Hate Change, They Hate the Future They Picture In this episode of Thoughts on Change, host Kelly explores why people resist change—even when they deal with it constantly. The answer isn't about change itself, but about the future people imagine. Kelly unpacks the psychology behind change resistance, introducing the concept of change as a "two-sided coin" where people either see gain or loss. Learn how to identify the fear of loss driving resistance and discover practical approaches from the Transform framework to help people see the positive side of change.

Timestamped Show Notes

0:00 - Introduction Kelly introduces the podcast and sets up the central question: why does change make us "kick and scream" when we experience it so frequently?

2:31 - Understanding Change Reactions Exploring what really happens when people experience change and why it's so difficult to shepherd people through workplace changes.

2:31 - The Two-Sided Coin of Change Kelly introduces the metaphor of change as a two-sided coin, using the example of bringing home a newborn to illustrate how the same change can be viewed as magical or nightmarish depending on perspective.

5:49 - The Fear of Loss Understanding why people picture negative stories where they lose something, especially with changes they didn't choose—like most workplace changes.

7:04 - Revealing the Root Kelly shares the third step of her Transform framework: revealing the root of resistance by identifying what people fear they will lose (autonomy, control, authority, purpose).

8:25 - Wrap Up Kelly teases the next episode and encourages listeners to subscribe and share with fellow change leaders.

Podcast Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJhLq4ce4os

]]> In this episode of Thoughts on Change, host Kelly explores why people resist change—even when they deal with it constantly. The answer isn't about change itself, but about the future people imagine. Kelly unpacks the psychology behind change resistance, introducing the concept of change as a "two-sided coin" where people either see gain or loss. Learn how to identify the fear of loss driving resistance and discover practical approaches from the Transform framework to help people see the positive side of change.

Timestamped Show Notes

0:00 - Introduction Kelly introduces the podcast and sets up the central question: why does change make us "kick and scream" when we experience it so frequently?

2:31 - Understanding Change Reactions Exploring what really happens when people experience change and why it's so difficult to shepherd people through workplace changes.

2:31 - The Two-Sided Coin of Change Kelly introduces the metaphor of change as a two-sided coin, using the example of bringing home a newborn to illustrate how the same change can be viewed as magical or nightmarish depending on perspective.

5:49 - The Fear of Loss Understanding why people picture negative stories where they lose something, especially with changes they didn't choose—like most workplace changes.

7:04 - Revealing the Root Kelly shares the third step of her Transform framework: revealing the root of resistance by identifying what people fear they will lose (autonomy, control, authority, purpose).

8:25 - Wrap Up Kelly teases the next episode and encourages listeners to subscribe and share with fellow change leaders.

Podcast Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJhLq4ce4os

]]> Kelly Mallery Buzzsprout-18557752 Fri, 23 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0500 517 full false Episode 1 - Welcome to the show Episode 1 - Welcome to the show Welcome to the very first episode of Thoughts on Change! This podcast is for practical change makers—CI practitioners, culture leaders, and anyone trying to drive meaningful change without losing their minds.

In this episode, host Kelly introduces the show and shares why it exists: to help you navigate the messy, emotional, and deeply human side of leading change. Too often, change leaders are treated like doers instead of thinkers, asked to implement tools rather than transform culture. This podcast bridges that gap.

You'll learn what to expect from future episodes, including insights into credibility, intent, and integrity; real stories from the trenches; and practical takeaways you can use immediately. Kelly also shares her background in manufacturing and continuous improvement, and why she's passionate about helping you lead change with confidence and influence.

Key Takeaway: Progress beats perfection. Curiosity beats control. And culture beats everything.

Timestamped Show Notes

00:00 - Introduction
Welcome to Thoughts on Change—the podcast about the messy, human side of leading change

00:57 - The Problem: Doers vs Thinkers
Why change leaders are often treated as implementers rather than strategic thinkers

02:36 - What This Podcast Offers
Three things every episode will deliver: insights, stories, and practical takeaways

02:37 - What's Coming
A preview of upcoming topics: credibility, intent, integrity, resistance, and the Transform framework

03:56 - About Kelly
Kelly's decade-plus experience in manufacturing, CI, and leading culture change

04:50 - Call to Action
How to subscribe, follow, and start noticing the small moments where credibility matters most 

Podcast Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhY8l8CHbCY

]]> Welcome to the very first episode of Thoughts on Change! This podcast is for practical change makers—CI practitioners, culture leaders, and anyone trying to drive meaningful change without losing their minds.

In this episode, host Kelly introduces the show and shares why it exists: to help you navigate the messy, emotional, and deeply human side of leading change. Too often, change leaders are treated like doers instead of thinkers, asked to implement tools rather than transform culture. This podcast bridges that gap.

You'll learn what to expect from future episodes, including insights into credibility, intent, and integrity; real stories from the trenches; and practical takeaways you can use immediately. Kelly also shares her background in manufacturing and continuous improvement, and why she's passionate about helping you lead change with confidence and influence.

Key Takeaway: Progress beats perfection. Curiosity beats control. And culture beats everything.

Timestamped Show Notes

00:00 - Introduction
Welcome to Thoughts on Change—the podcast about the messy, human side of leading change

00:57 - The Problem: Doers vs Thinkers
Why change leaders are often treated as implementers rather than strategic thinkers

02:36 - What This Podcast Offers
Three things every episode will deliver: insights, stories, and practical takeaways

02:37 - What's Coming
A preview of upcoming topics: credibility, intent, integrity, resistance, and the Transform framework

03:56 - About Kelly
Kelly's decade-plus experience in manufacturing, CI, and leading culture change

04:50 - Call to Action
How to subscribe, follow, and start noticing the small moments where credibility matters most 

Podcast Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhY8l8CHbCY

]]> Kelly Mallery Buzzsprout-18557739 Fri, 23 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0500 303 1 full false