Episodes

  • The Role of Accountability in Strategic Success

    The Role of Accountability in Strategic Success
    Jun 11 2025
    Who’s actually accountable in your strategic plan? If your answer includes more than one name… that might be the root of your execution problems. In this episode of The Strategy Gap, hosts Jonathan Morgan (SVP of Operations at AchieveIt) and Joe Krause (SVP of Strategy Consulting) tackle one of the most misunderstood pillars of execution: accountability.

    From the danger of group-think to the power of visibility and recognition, they dig into what really moves teams from idea to impact. With relatable stories (hello, MBA group projects) and practical advice, this episode is packed with insights for anyone tired of watching plans stall due to unclear ownership and disengaged teams.

    Why you’ll want to listen:
    • Learn the “fire drill test” to identify true ownership in your plans
    • Understand how public progress tracking can boost engagement across the org
    • Discover low-cost ways to create accountability through recognition
    • Hear how leaders can tailor accountability structures to different employee types
    👉 Hit play and close the gap between strategy and execution. Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes!
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    33 mins
  • How to Boost Innovation and Strategy Through Cross-Team Collaboration

    How to Boost Innovation and Strategy Through Cross-Team Collaboration
    Apr 30 2025
    Collaboration isn’t just a buzzword — it’s the backbone of strategy execution.

    In this episode of The Strategy Gap, hosts Jonathan Morgan (SVP of Operations) and Joe Krause (SVP of Strategy Consulting) dig into why so many organizations say they value collaboration but still fail to practice it. From breaking down silos to running meetings that don’t suck, they share real-world lessons (and hard truths) about what it takes to turn big plans into real progress. With 77% of leaders saying silos hold them back — and 79% of failed initiatives pointing to poor collaboration — this episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to get strategy over the finish line.

    Whether you're leading a strategy team or sitting in cross-functional meetings wondering why progress stalls, this conversation is full of relatable moments, tactical tips, and a healthy dose of humor. Learn how to structure collaboration so it actually works, without overwhelming your calendar — or your team.

    🎧 Why you’ll want to listen:
    • Learn how to set expectations so planning conversations don’t derail.
    • Hear how access and awareness are more powerful than more meetings.
    • Get tips to run productive, high-impact meetings your team won’t dread.
    • Find out why most plans fail — even when collaboration is “part of the strategy.”
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    30 mins
  • Alignment & Leadership: Why Most Strategic Plans Fail (and How to Fix Them)

    Alignment & Leadership: Why Most Strategic Plans Fail (and How to Fix Them)
    Apr 17 2025
    In this episode of The Strategy Gap, we dive into the first pillar of the 2025 State of Strategy Execution Report: Alignment and Leadership. Hosts Jonathan Morgan, SVP of Operations at AchieveIt, and Joe Krause, SVP of Strategy Consulting, break down why so many strategic plans crumble at the top—and what leaders can do to reverse course. From lackluster vision statements to inconsistent communication, this episode challenges leadership teams to reflect on whether they’re truly setting the tone for success.

    Whether you're leading a strategy rollout, trying to gain cross-functional alignment, or wondering why your team isn’t rallying behind your vision—this episode is a must-listen. Jonathan and Joe blend years of hands-on consulting experience with data-backed insights from over 250 strategy leaders across industries.

    ✅ Why You’ll Want to Listen:
    • Discover the top 5 reasons strategic plans fail—and how nearly all of them trace back to leadership
    • Learn how to create a communication strategy that drives long-term engagement (not just a flashy launch)
    • Find out how “How” and “Why” questions can realign disconnected teams
    • Hear real-world examples of what strong leadership alignment looks like in action
    👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and catch the full State of Strategy Execution series as we explore each pillar in upcoming episodes!
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    32 mins
  • Introducing the State of Strategy Execution 2025

    Introducing the State of Strategy Execution 2025
    Mar 5 2025
    Are you actually executing your strategy—or just making plans that collect dust? In this episode of The Strategy Gap, we dive into the key findings from the 2025 State of Strategy Execution report and break down what separates high-performing organizations from the rest. Hosting the conversation are Jonathan Morgan, SVP of Operations at AchieveIt, and Joe Krause, SVP of Strategy Consulting, two of AchieveIt's seasoned strategy experts.

    We explore the biggest roadblocks companies face, the role of leadership in execution, and how consistent updates, clear accountability, and the right technology can drive 10X better outcomes. Whether you're leading a team or driving strategy at an executive level, this episode will give you practical, no-nonsense insights to level up your execution game.

    Why you’ll want to listen:
    • The 5 critical factors that determine whether your strategy will succeed or fail
    • Why measuring activity ≠ measuring success—and how to track real impact
    • How real-time dashboards make organizations 10X more likely to achieve their goals
    • The #1 leadership mistake that’s killing strategy execution (and how to fix it)
    Find the full 2025 State of Strategy Execution here: https://www.achieveit.com/resources/2025-state-of-strategy-execution/


    Key Topics with Timestamps:

    00:00 Insights from 2025 Strategy Execution Survey
    06:05 Effective Success Metrics and Updates
    09:01 Strategic Planning for Leaders
    10:24 Process Adherence for Improved Clarity
    13:09 The Impact of Losing Corporate Vision
    17:41 Transforming Plans into Action
    21:02 Impact of Strategic Isolation on Business
    24:44 Engaging Future Leaders Effectively
    26:59 Governance Guide: Clarifying Plan Engagement
    31:06 Real-Time Dashboards Enhance Strategy Performance
    33:52 Optimizing Dashboard Utilization
    38:40 The Value of Strategic Planning
    39:28 Reaffirming Strategic Communication Essentials
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    42 mins
  • Advocating for Impact: Building a Case for Strategic Initiatives

    Advocating for Impact: Building a Case for Strategic Initiatives
    Feb 12 2025
    How do you transition from commodities trading to leading strategy at a global mental health company?

    Mark Muston, Head of Business Operations & Strategy at Modern Health, shares how he made the leap, why hiring for potential matters more than a perfect resume, and how to pitch leadership like a startup founder. If you’re in strategy, operations, or just trying to build a team that actually gets things done—this episode is for you. In this conversation, Mark breaks down what it takes to build cross-functional initiatives, advocate for your team in a cost-center role, and make strategic decisions that drive real impact. Plus, he shares valuable lessons on navigating career transitions and knowing when (and how) to push for change.

    🎧 Why you’ll want to listen:
    • The #1 hiring mistake leaders make—and how to find the best talent beyond the resume.
    • Why your resume should tell a data-driven story (and how to craft one that stands out).
    • The “VC mindset” for getting leadership buy-in and securing resources for strategic initiatives.
    • How to balance small quick wins with big ROI projects in strategy and operations.


    Key Timestamps:

    00:00 Transitioning from Trading to Business Development
    03:46 Journey to Modern Health Leadership
    07:04 Aligning Career with Purpose
    10:52 Reevaluating Hiring Standards in Healthcare
    14:57 Assessing Ambition Through Resume Signals
    18:02 Lessons Learned: Trading to Tech Transition
    20:32 Prioritizing Business Problem Solving
    25:56 Navigating Startup Challenges and Flexibility
    26:49 Aligning Projects with Business Priorities
    31:29 Manual MVP Testing and Scaling
    34:03 Prioritizing Impact Over Busywork


    Listen now to The Strategy Gap!
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    36 mins
  • Startups vs. Corporates: Innovating AI in the High-Stakes World of Healthcare

    Startups vs. Corporates: Innovating AI in the High-Stakes World of Healthcare
    Jan 29 2025
    Can a startup stay agile while scaling—and still innovate?

    In this episode of The Strategy Gap, we're joined by Dave McMullin, Chief Strategy Officer at Anumana, to dive into the balancing act of startup strategy. With experience spanning biotech giants and high-growth startups, Dave shares his insights on aligning long-term vision with short-term wins, keeping innovation alive while building structure, and staying disciplined in execution. Whether you're leading a startup, scaling a business, or navigating strategic growth, this conversation is packed with actionable insights.

    Why you'll want to listen:
    • How to balance long-term strategy with real-time pivots in a fast-moving company
    • The key to scaling without stifling innovation or creativity
    • A simple yet powerful tactic to ensure strategy doesn’t get lost in daily operations
    • What startups can learn from big corporations—and what they should leave behind
    Listen now to The Strategy Gap and get expert insights from Dave McMullin!
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    30 mins
  • Why Alignment Matters: Insights on Building Unified Organizations

    Why Alignment Matters: Insights on Building Unified Organizations
    Jan 15 2025
    Ready to uncover the secrets to true organizational alignment and long-term strategic success? In this episode of The Strategy Gap, we’re joined by Ken Sagendorf, Chief Strategy Officer at True Alignment and host of the True Alignment Podcast. With decades of experience as a strategic leader, innovator, and educator, Ken brings unparalleled insights into bridging the gap between strategy creation and execution.

    From the importance of embracing a generalist mindset to understanding the emotions driving workplace behaviors, Ken challenges us to rethink how we approach leadership, alignment, and change. Whether you’re a business leader, strategist, or someone passionate about fostering collaboration, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways you won’t want to miss.Why You’ll Want to Listen:
    • Discover why generalists are the ultimate gap-bridgers and how they create value across organizations.
    • Learn how to address emotions and values as the key to fostering true alignment in your team.
    • Find out why strategy is a long-haul process and how trust and openness drive success.
    • Explore Ken’s concept of quantum alignment and how personal and professional values intersect.
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    34 mins
  • Ep 035 - Dave Parker - The Strategy Gap - Audio Episode

    Ep 035 - Dave Parker - The Strategy Gap - Audio Episode
    Dec 18 2024
    What does it take to turn strategy into real, actionable results? In this episode of The Strategy Gap, Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause sit down with Dave Parker, Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer at Evergreen Life Services. With decades of experience in both for-profit and nonprofit sectors, Dave shares his unique insights on blending innovation, collaboration, and strategic clarity. From his groundbreaking "Mission Money Matrix" to lessons learned the hard way, Dave offers a fresh perspective on how organizations can align mission and impact with measurable outcomes.Tune in as

    Dave reveals how trust, shared language, and a human-centered approach are essential for engaging teams and driving strategic success—whether you’re leading a small division or managing a complex, multi-state organization.Why You’ll Want to Listen:
    • Discover the "Mission Money Matrix," a decision-making framework that balances mission impact with financial sustainability.
    • Learn why trust and a shared language are foundational for strategy execution.
    • Hear how John Wooden’s advice—“Be quick but don’t hurry”—applies to leadership and teamwork.
    • Get practical tips for engaging your team and aligning daily work with strategic objectives.
    Don’t miss this insightful conversation with Dave Parker, packed with takeaways to help you bridge the gap between strategy creation and execution!
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    29 mins