GA 629 | Why Leadership Is Like Cooking with Pete Behrens

GA 629 | Why Leadership Is Like Cooking with Pete Behrens

Author: Ron Pereira: Lean Thinker & Co-Founder of Gemba Academy April 23, 2026 Duration: 35:19

This week’s guest is Pete Behrens. Ron and Pete discussed Pete’s book, “Into the Fog,” what it means for leaders to face uncertainty, why leadership is like cooking, and more. An MP3 audio version of this episode is available for download here.

In this episode you’ll learn: 

  • Pete’s quote (2:10)
  • His background (3:15)
  • Why people are the biggest source of variability (6:57)
  • What Pete means by “into the fog” (9:50)
  • Pete’s approach (14:14)
  • What’s better than sitting still (17:59)
  • Why leadership is like cooking (22:07)
  • The constraints Pete is seeing (28:41)
  • Pete’s final words of wisdom (32:32)

Podcast Resources

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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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