GA 631 | What We Can Learn from Tetris with Michael Parent

GA 631 | What We Can Learn from Tetris with Michael Parent

Author: Ron Pereira: Lean Thinker & Co-Founder of Gemba Academy May 7, 2026 Duration: 30:33
This week's guest is Michael Parent. Ron and Michael discussed an interesting AI conundrum, the impact that systems and design have on performance, Michael's Tetris experiment, and more. An MP3 audio version of this episode is available for download here. In this episode you'll learn:  Michael's quote (3:03) Ron's LinkedIn poll on AI (4:32) About Michael's background (8:11) His thoughts on system and design (10:58) What's happening with high performers (14:09) How Michael uses Tetris (17:40) What the lessons learned were/are (22:18) How often Michael sees these design problems (24:52) His final words of wisdom (27:52) Podcast Resources Right Click to Download this Podcast as an MP3 Michael's Substack Michael on LinkedIn Ron's LinkedIn Poll on AI GA 339 | Applying Lean and Six Sigma to Human Resources GA 423 | Lean and Human-Centered Design The Red Bead Experiment Get All the Latest News from Gemba Academy Our newsletter is a great way to receive updates on new courses, blog posts, and more. Sign up here. What Do You Think? What are your thoughts on Michael's Tetris experiment?

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: 50

Gemba Academy Podcast: Lean Six Sigma | Toyota Kata | Productivity | Leadership
Podcast Episodes
GA 608 | Leading Without Authority with Ricky Banks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:41
This week's guest is Gemba Academy Senior Coach and Instructor Ricky Banks. Ron and Ricky discussed what it means to lead without authority, working with incarcerated individuals, the importance of building relationships…
GA 606 | Fixing What Bugs You with Nick Klein [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:25
This week's guest is Nick Klein. Ron and Nick discussed how Nick applies lean at his organization, the challenges they're facing, and why quick improvements like cleaning up your desktop do more than you think.
GA 605 | The Katalyst Framework with Katie Anderson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:39
This week's guest is Katie Anderson. Ron and Katie discussed Katie's most recent book, the Katalyst framework she created, her experiences leading trips in Japan, and more.
GA 603 | The Culture of Calm with Gui Costin [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:48
This week's guest is Gui Costin. Ron and Gui discuss fostering a calm company culture, bringing out the best in people, dealing with different generations and personality types in the workplace, and more.