The Inner Game of Change

Welcome to The Inner Game of Change, the podcast where we explore the unseen forces that shape how we lead, adapt, and thrive in the face of change and transformation. 

In this episode, I sit down with Dr Jonathan Thorp; a former Navy pilot turned leadership educator—to unpack one of the most vital ingredients of effective teams: psychological safety.

From the boardroom to the break room, we explore what makes conversations feel safe, why trust must precede truth-telling, and how safety and accountability must work together—not in oppos...

Welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: Mental Models for Managing Change.

In our last episode, we explored Leverage Points — how small, well-placed actions can shift entire systems. We talked about where change managers should be scanning for influence — not just solving problems, but shifting the conditions that create them.

Today, we pivot to a model that pairs beautifully with that: Map vs. Territory.

But first — if you’re just joini...

Welcome to The Inner Game of Change, the podcast where we explore the unseen forces that shape how we lead, adapt, and thrive in the face of change and transformation. 

Today, I’m joined by Bronwyn Penhaligon — a strategic psychotherapist who helps people and teams get unstuck by tackling the emotional loops and environmental triggers that hold them back. In this conversation, we unpack burnout — how it’s different from stress, why it’s rising, and what both leaders and individuals can do to stop normalising overwhelm. We also explore the deep connection between min...

Welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: Mental Models for Managing Change.

In this episode of Mental Models for Managing Change, we explore Leverage Points — a systems thinking model that helps change leaders identify the small, high-impact interventions that can shift entire systems.

Popularised by Donella Meadows, Leverage Points reveal why some efforts lead to deep transformation, while others barely make a dent. Ali Juma unpacks this...

Welcome to The Inner Game of Change, the podcast where we explore the unseen forces that shape how we lead, adapt, and thrive in the face of change and transformation. 

In this episode, I am joined by the insightful and bold Amy Yackowski—founder of Painted Porch Strategies and a passionate advocate for building shift-ready teams and leaders.

Together, we dive into the critical, often overlooked period before change officially begins—a space Amy calls Phase Zero. Long before the project plan kicks in, before kickoff meetings and comms plans, Phase Zero...

Welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: Mental Models for Managing Change.

In this episode, we explore one of the most practical and empowering models in the change toolkit: the Circle of Control, Influence, and Concern.

When faced with uncertainty or disruption, where we place our attention can make or break our impact. This timeless mental model helps us distinguish between what we can control, what we can influence, an...

Welcome to The Inner Game of Change, the podcast where we explore the unseen forces that shape how we lead, adapt, and thrive in the face of change and transformation.

In today’s episode, we explore a powerful way of thinking and working that helps people navigate complexity, solve tough problems, and grow through structured learning — the Improvement Kata.

My guest is Tracy Defoe — a lifelong adult educator, Kata coach, and passionate advocate for deliberate, reflective learning at work. Based in Vancouver, Canada, Tracy shares her de...

Welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: Mental Models for Managing Change.

In this episode of Mental Models for Managing Change, we explore a mental model that helps us cut through complexity and focus our energy where it really counts: The Pareto Principle, also known as the 80/20 Rule.

Named after economist Vilfredo Pareto, this model reveals a powerful pattern — that a small percentage of inputs often lead to the majo...

Welcome to The Inner Game of Change, the podcast where we explore the unseen forces that shape how we lead, adapt, and thrive in the face of change and transformation.

In this episode, I am joined by someone who’s been on the frontlines of organisational culture in some of the world’s most recognisable companies — Mehmet Baha, author of the newly released book Creating Psychological Safety at Work.

Baha is the founder of Solution Folder and has over 24 years of experience working with top organisations, including being one of the first...

Welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: Mental Models for Managing Change.

In this episode of Mental Models for Managing Change, we explore a mental model that helps us pause, reflect, and challenge how we make sense of the world around us: The Ladder of Inference.

Developed by organisational psychologist Chris Argyris and later popularised by Peter Senge, this model shows how quickly we move from observing facts to ta...

Welcome to The Inner Game of Change, the podcast that explores the evolving landscape of change management, leadership, and transformation.

In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to be joined by Susan Zhang, a creative technologist, author, and global thought leader. From her beginnings in China to her journey as an international student in Australia, Susan has embraced the discomfort of change to unlock personal and professional growth.

We dive deep into topics like the power of stepping outside your comfort zone, the role of ambition in driving change, and how embr...

Welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: Mental Models for Managing Change.

In this episode, we explore a mental model that invites us to look beyond the immediate impact of change: Second-Order Thinking.

So often, change initiatives are shaped around what we expect to happen next. But in reality, change rarely follows a straight line — and first-order decisions often lead to second and third-order consequences we did not anticipate.

Welcome to The Inner Game of Change, the podcast that explores the evolving landscape of change management, leadership, and transformation.

Today, I am chatting with Ian Heard Director of Public Sector Modern Work at Microsoft ANZ — a leader who is right at the heart of how AI is reshaping the way we work. 

In this episode, we talk about the real story behind GenAI Copilot, what change looks like inside Microsoft, and why the role of a change manager might just be turning into a “Chief Excitement Officer.”...

Welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: Mental Models for Managing Change.

In this episode, we explore a model that helps us look beyond what is visible in times of change: the Iceberg Model.

Often, we respond to what we can see on the surface — missed deadlines, disengaged teams, unexpected resistance. But, as with an iceberg, most of the real forces driving those outcomes lie beneath.

The Iceb...

Welcome to The Inner Game of Change, the podcast that explores the evolving landscape of change management, leadership, and transformation.

In this episode, I’m joined by the remarkable Karen Ball, Senior Fellow at Prosci and author of The ADKAR Advantage: Your New Lens for Successful Change. Released in April 2024, Karen’s book offers a fresh and practical take on navigating change by embracing the power of the Prosci ADKAR Model.

With over 40 years of experience, Karen has helped countless individuals and organisations unlock the real benefits of s...

Hi everyone, and welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: Mental Models for Managing Change.

Before we dive into today’s topic, let’s quickly cover what a mental model actually is.

A mental model is simply a way of thinking — a framework that helps us understand the world, make better decisions, and solve problems more effectively. Think of it like a blueprint for how to approach challenges and navigate complexity.

Her...

Hi everyone, and welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: Mental Models for Managing Change.

Before we dive into today’s topic, let’s quickly cover what a mental model actually is.

A mental model is simply a way of thinking — a framework that helps us understand the world, make better decisions, and solve problems more effectively. Think of it like a blueprint for how to approach challenges and navigate complexity.

Her...

Welcome to the podcast that explores the evolving landscape of change management, leadership, and transformation.

In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to be joined by Mark Abraham, Managing Director at Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and author of the bestselling HBR book, Personalized: Customer Strategy in the Age of AI. With over 20 years of experience, Mark has worked closely with global CEOs, CMOs, and CXOs, helping them tackle complex business challenges and deliver breakthrough 1:1 customer experiences. At BCG, he founded and leads the company’s Global Personalization business. 

Mark brings...

Welcome to The Inner Game of Change, the podcast that explores the evolving landscape of change management, leadership, and transformation.
 

In today's episode, I am joined by Lisa Carlin, a strategy execution expert, to dive into one of the biggest conversations in business today; AI strategy and adoption. With the AI hype everywhere, how can organizations separate signals from the noise and make smart strategic decisions? 

Lisa brings her deep expertise to help us cut through the noise, focus on what matters and harness AI for real impact. We will ex...

Hi everyone, and welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: Mental Models for Managing Change.

Let’s start with a quick definition. A mental model is a framework or way of thinking that helps us understand the world, make decisions, and solve problems more effectively. It’s like a blueprint for how to approach challenges and navigate complexity.

Now, here’s a simple analogy: Imagine you’re driving to a new destinatio...

Welcome to The Inner Game of Change, the podcast that explores the evolving landscape of change management, leadership, and transformation.


Today, I welcome the inspiring Margo Waldorf, founder of the Global Change Awards and a true change leader on a mission in the field of workplace transformation.

As the CEO of the Global Change Awards and Director at Change Ready Workplace, Margo is a passionate advocate for making change a skill that everyone can master. Her work is reshaping the way organisations approach change management and...

Welcome to The Inner Game of Change, the podcast that explores the evolving landscape of change management, leadership, and transformation. I am your host, Ali Juma, and today, we have a truly unique and groundbreaking episode.

For the first time, we’re shifting perspectives by inviting a generative AI—yes, a chatbot—into the conversation. Together, we will dive into the transformative power of AI, its impact on the workplace, and how leaders, change managers, and consultants can harness its potential to drive meaningful progress.

Whether you are curious about the future...

Hi everyone, and welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: Mental Models for Managing Change.

Let’s start with a quick definition. A mental model is a framework or way of thinking that helps us understand the world, make decisions, and solve problems more effectively. It’s like a blueprint for how to approach challenges and navigate complexity.

Now, here’s a simple analogy: Imagine you’re driving to a new destinatio...

Hi everyone, and welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: mental models for managing change.

Let’s start with a quick definition. A mental model is a framework or way of thinking that helps us understand the world, make decisions, and solve problems more effectively. It’s like a blueprint for how to approach challenges and navigate complexity.

Now, here’s a simple analogy: Imagine you’re driving to a new destination. Without a map, you...

Send us a text

Hi everyone, and welcome to a very special mini-series on The Inner Game of Change. I’m thrilled to take you on this journey as we explore something both timeless and practical: mental models for managing change.

Let’s start with a quick definition. A mental model is a framework or way of thinking that helps us understand the world, make decisions, and solve problems more effectively. It’s like a blueprint for how to approach challenges and navigate complexity.

Now, here’s a simple analogy: Imagine you’re driving to...

 In this special highlights episode of The Inner Game of Change podcast, we revisit some of the most impactful moments from our top episodes. While every conversation this year has been rich with invaluable insights, these highlights showcase standout lessons and perspectives that have resonated deeply with our audience. Join me as we explore key themes in leadership, change, and transformation.
I am grateful for all of my guests' time, insight and wisdom.

As we wrap up 2024, I want to thank you for being part of The Inner Game of Change. Your support and engagement have m...

Hello, and welcome to this special episode of The Inner Game of Change.

Today’s episode is deeply meaningful, as it features a conversation with the remarkable Carol Sanford. Carol has been a pioneer of Regenerative Thinking for over four decades, helping entrepreneurs and executives transform their businesses responsibly and meaningfully. Her work has left an indelible mark on so many lives and organisations.

It is with a heavy heart that I share that Carol is now in transition out of this world, as shared by her son Mark 2 days ago. Despite the challenges of he...

Welcome to the Inner Game of Change Podcast, uncovering the layers of complexity of organisational change with some of the bright minds in the field.

Today, I am delighted to host Dr. Jess Tayel, a top LinkedIn voice and a distinguished leader in global change and transformation.  Dr. Tayel has over 25 years of experience in leading global change and transformation programs in senior leadership roles, guiding and leading large-scale change programs across 15 countries. 

She has worked with companies like Google, Boeing, Apple, Emirates, World Cup, ABN Amro, Barclays and more.

Jess is also th...

Welcome to the Inner Game of Change Podcast, uncovering the layers of complexity of organisational change with some of the bright minds in the field.

Today, I am joined by Kavita Ganesan; an AI advisor, strategist, and founder of Opinosis Analytics. Kavita has led numerous AI projects, from recommendation engines to advanced sentiment analysis systems, impacting millions of users and shaping strategic AI initiatives for major organizations like McKesson, Verizon, and the University of Sydney.

 In today’s episode, we will explore the transformative power of AI and its wide-reaching impacts. Drawing from her book The...

Welcome to a special episode ; The Outer Game of Change.  In these unique episodes, I am joined by leaders and executives who drive change and shape the future of their organizations. We listen to their unique insights, explore how they perceive change, and uncover what is simmering in their minds.

Today, I am thrilled to have with me Professor Theo Farrell, the 7th Vice-Chancellor and President of La Trobe University here in Australia.  Professor Farrell has a distinguished career in academia and research, having held leadership positions at top universities around the world. He is an author, an...

Welcome to the Inner Game of Change Podcast, uncovering the layers of complexity of organisational change with some of the bright minds in the field.

I’m thrilled to be joined by Maggie Jackson, an award-winning journalist and author, celebrated for her insightful exploration of uncertainty, the impact of technology on our lives, and the science of attention.

Her latest book, Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure, uncovers how uncertainty is often misunderstood but can actually promote open-mindedness and innovation.

In this episode, Maggie shares her insights on how embracing uncertainty ca...

Welcome to the Inner Game of Change Podcast, uncovering the layers of complexity of organisational change with some of the bright minds in the field.

Today, I am privilaged to be joined by Dr. David Weiss, a renowned author, speaker, and executive coach. Dr. Weiss is the President and CEO of Weiss International Ltd., where he has led over 1,000 business and organisational projects across five continents. He’s a recognised expert in innovation, leadership, and HR consulting, with accolades from global organisations, including the Government of Canada and the Asia-Pacific HR Congress.

In his latest ar...

Welcome to the Inner Game of Change Podcast, uncovering the layers of complexity of organisational change with some of the bright minds in the field.

Today, I’m thrilled to be joined by Paul Gibbons, a leading voice in the future of change management. In his latest work, The Future of Change Management, Paul explores the quiet revolution in how we understand transitions, blending behavioral science, mental health, generative AI, and neuroscience to offer more effective strategies for leading change.

With up-to-date insights into HR, design thinking, and neurodiversity, Paul is reshaping how businesses adapt in...

Welcome to the Inner Game of Change Podcast, where I explore the intricate layers of organizational change alongside insightful professionals in the field.

Today, I am thrilled to welcome Nicole Gahagan: an author, a high-performing strategist and organizational change expert committed to improving employee experiences and organisational effectiveness.

With her vast experience, Nicole has honed a distinctive method for fostering change. Renowned for forging relationships, achieving agreement, and inspiring various groups of stakeholders, she reliably delivers significant results.

In this episode, we will dive into the pivotal role of middle management, which...

Welcome to the Inner Game of Change Podcast, where I explore the intricate layers of organizational change alongside insightful professionals in the field.

Today, I am thrilled to welcome Steve Rawling: a master storyteller, author, strategic learning facilitator, and leadership development expert.

Drawing from his rich personal experiences, journalistic curiosity, and continuous reflection, Steve has cultivated a value-based approach to helping clients communicate through the art of storytelling. His publications are globally considered among the most effective tools for anyone aspiring to become a storyteller.

In this episode, Steve and I dive into...

Welcome to the Inner Game of Change Podcast, where I explore the intricate layers of organizational change alongside insightful professionals in the field.

Today, I am thrilled to welcome the change professional, Paula Anastasiade! Paula is a seasoned Organizational Change Manager with a wealth of experience in ERP implementations, technology deployments, automation, mergers, and acquisitions.

Through her extensive expertise, Paula is always invited to offer invaluable advice to senior executives on key change management components, including change strategy, adoption, and communication.

In this episode, Paula shares her profound knowledge and insights on organizational...

 Welcome to the Inner Game of Change Podcast, where I explore the intricate layers of organizational change alongside insightful professionals in the field.

Today, I am excited to have with me Nick Tasler, a global thought leader, organizational psychologist, and the #1 best-selling author of four counter-intuitive books on the art and science of making decisions and leading change.

Nick is renowned for his unique insights and dynamic style, benefiting top organizations like General Electric, Microsoft, and JP Morgan,  A sought-after speaker and consultant, Nick is also an expert writer for the Harvard Business Re...

 Welcome to the Inner Game of Change Podcast, where I explore the intricate layers of organizational change alongside insightful professionals in the field.

I am thrilled to have two exceptional guests with me: Susan Bartlett and Terri Block, both principals at Workomics, who bring a wealth of expertise in organizational transformation. 

Susan Bartlett has over 15 years of experience in creating customer-centric workplaces that prioritize employee well-being and seamlessly integrate emerging technologies. With a diverse background that includes being the CEO of a consultancy, a strategy consultant at IBM, and a Rhodes Scholar at the University of...

 Welcome to the Inner Game of Change Podcast, where I explore the intricate layers of organizational change alongside insightful professionals.

Today I welcome Sarah Kaur, a Design Thinking Practitioner at  the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO's) Data61. With a robust background, Sarah brings over a decade of experience collaborating across disciplines to embed human-centric design in machine learning and AI research.

Her work focuses on Responsible AI, striving to enhance policy and consumer experiences through ethical and technically sound AI applications. Sarah's dedication shines through in her projects.

Today, Sarah and I...

 Welcome to the Inner Game of Change Podcast, where I explore the intricate layers of organizational change alongside insightful professionals. 

Today, my guest is Andrew Butow; a change catalyst in the truest sense. As the founder and CEO of Earth2Mars, Andrew has dedicated his career to assisting organizations and individuals in understanding and navigating the complexities of change. With his expertise, Andrew brings a unique and invaluable perspective on how to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape.

Andrew's passion for people-centric change and his hands-on approach have made him an influential figure in shaping fu...