GA 565 | Continuous Improvement in Higher Education with Dr. Brad Miller

GA 565 | Continuous Improvement in Higher Education with Dr. Brad Miller

Author: Ron Pereira: Lean Thinker & Co-Founder of Gemba Academy January 30, 2025 Duration: 44:59

This week’s guest is Dr. Brad Miller. Ron and Dr. Miller discussed what it’s like to teach Lean and Six Sigma at a university, the business lessons that can be learned from academia, his grocery store simulation, and more. An MP3 audio version of this episode is available for download here.

In this episode you’ll learn: 

  • The quote that inspires Dr. Miller (3:01)
  • His background (4:29)
  • How he started working at a university (6:51)
  • What students are like these days (9:07)
  • How he structures his classes (13:53)
  • About his grocery store checkout simulation (18:37)
  • How mixing different personalities works (21:39)
  • Balancing “getting it right” with experimenting (32:38)

Podcast Resources

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What else can we learn from the way continuous improvement is taught at the university level?


Hosted by Ron Pereira, a lean thinker and co-founder of Gemba Academy, the Gemba Academy Podcast is a deep and practical resource for anyone looking to build a better organization. The conversations here move beyond theory, focusing on the real-world application of methodologies like Lean Six Sigma and Toyota Kata. You’ll hear from practitioners and leaders who share stories from the front lines, detailing how they tackle complex problems, foster genuine productivity, and develop effective teams. Each episode feels like a candid workshop, breaking down concepts into actionable steps you can apply immediately. This isn't about abstract ideals; it's about the tangible work of improvement, from the shop floor to the executive suite. Tune in for a learning experience that challenges conventional wisdom and provides the tools for meaningful change. The Gemba Academy Podcast turns the philosophy of continuous improvement into a clear and accessible path forward for business professionals and educators alike.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Gemba Academy Podcast: Lean Six Sigma | Toyota Kata | Productivity | Leadership
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