Time to Rethink Continuous Improvement?

In this episode, Matt is joined by Michel Doppert, a seasoned continuous improvement leader with a truly global perspective. From early days in international law to becoming one of Europe’s first Six Sigma Black Belts, Michel’s journey is rooted in transformation, data-driven thinking, and an unwavering belief in the power of people.

We explore what continuous improvement really means today, far beyond the textbooks and toolkits. Michel shares why mindset trumps methodology, how leadership is about connection, not titles, and why listening is still the most underrated skill in change. We also tackle how learning needs to evolve to meet the pace and expectations of today’s world, and what role AI and automation play in that shift.

You’ll hear why early exposure to structured problem-solving matters, how storytelling can unlock engagement, and what needs to change in how we teach and lead future generations. Michel’s insight is grounded, practical, and refreshingly honest.

This one’s for anyone serious about driving meaningful improvement that actually sticks.

 

Key Takeaways:

1. Continuous improvement is a mindset, not a methodology
   It’s not about toolkits, textbooks, or certifications. Continuous improvement is an attitude rooted in curiosity, learning, and a willingness to evolve. Tools support it, but people drive it.
2. Leadership is human, people follow people, not positions
   Titles don’t inspire change; people do. Effective leaders earn trust and influence by being authentic, listening, and showing genuine interest in others.
3. Communication and listening are foundational
   Progress starts by asking better questions, not giving better answers. Listening builds understanding, overcomes resistance, and creates the conditions for engagement.
4. Old-school learning no longer meets today’s needs.
   Traditional training, textbooks, long courses, and PowerPoint-heavy sessions fail to engage modern learners. Learning needs to be relevant, interactive, story-led, inclusive, and designed for how people consume information today.
5. Storytelling is a timeless teaching method.
   People learn and connect through stories, not slide decks. Stories help convey principles in ways that data or definitions can’t.
6. Technology and AI are enablers, not replacements.
   AI can accelerate analysis and access to information, but it can’t replace the empathy, judgment, or connection that human leaders bring. Use tech to simplify, but keep people at the centre.
7. Application matters more than certification.
   Passing an exam doesn’t equal capability. Real learning happens through doing, experimenting, failing, and reflecting. Mistakes should be welcomed as part of the process.
8. Co-creation is essential to meaningful change.
   Improvement is more effective when solutions are developed with, not for, the people doing the work. Engagement, ownership, and shared learning are critical for sustainability.
9. Early exposure to structured problem-solving builds lifelong capability.
   Introducing structured problem-solving skills at a young age creates confidence, curiosity, and a healthier approach to change. Programmes like Ever-So-Lean Rising Stars™ show how children as young as eight can grasp core improvement principles when delivered in the right way. It proves we can build capability early and help the next generation avoid the firefighting culture that often dominates workplaces.
10. Start with the ‘why’, not the ‘what’.
    Don’t lead with metrics or mandates. Start by helping people understand why change matters to them. Only then will they be open to the what and the how.

🔗Michel's Resources:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheldoppert

Website - https://micheldoppert.com/

 

Find out more about Ever-So-Lean Rising Stars™, Ever-So-Lean, working with us, and our learning programs at www.eversolean.com

Explore the Lean Competency System (LCS) - https://www.leancompetency.org/

Visit the BQF to learn more about the wonderful work they do - https://www.bqf.org.uk/

Enrol in the Online Improvement Kata & Coaching Kata Basics Course. Upskill your coaching skills with the ONLY Kata training created by Jeffrey K. Liker and Mike Rother! - https://toyota-way-academy.teachable.com/?affcode=43912_2uzhk5-x

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