The Strategy Gap

Hosted by AchieveIt

Business Management

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Jun 2025

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About the show

The Strategy Gap A show about the space between savvy strategy and practical execution — and everything that can go wrong on the way. Ever finish out the workday and realize you were super busy but didn’t actually accomplish what you wanted? A lot of companies operate this way. Many of us know where we want our organization to go, but struggle to understand how we’re progressing and how to make sure we get there. This is a show about the best-laid plans, properly executing as you scale, and the processes you need to achieve your goals. In this show, hosted by Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause, each episode features conversations with strategy and operational leaders on key insights in strategic planning, strategy execution, and more.

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43 recent

June 11, 2025Episode 4333 min

The Role of Accountability in Strategic Success

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 plansUnderstand how public progress tracking can boost engagement across the orgDiscover low-cost ways to create accountability through recognitionHear 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!

April 30, 2025Episode 4229 min

How to Boost Innovation and Strategy Through Cross-Team Collaboration

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.”

April 17, 2025Episode 4131 min

Alignment & Leadership: Why Most Strategic Plans Fail (and How to Fix Them)

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 leadershipLearn 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 teamsHear 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!

March 5, 2025Episode 4042 min

Introducing the State of Strategy Execution 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 failWhy measuring activity ≠ measuring success—and how to track real impactHow real-time dashboards make organizations 10X more likely to achieve their goalsThe #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 Survey06:05 Effective Success Metrics and Updates09:01 Strategic Planning for Leaders10:24 Process Adherence for Improved Clarity13:09 The Impact of Losing Corporate Vision17:41 Transforming Plans into Action21:02 Impact of Strategic Isolation on Business24:44 Engaging Future Leaders Effectively26:59 Governance Guide: Clarifying Plan Engagement31:06 Real-Time Dashboards Enhance Strategy Performance33:52 Optimizing Dashboard Utilization38:40 The Value of Strategic Planning39:28 Reaffirming Strategic Communication Essentials

February 12, 2025Episode 3936 min

Advocating for Impact: Building a Case for Strategic Initiatives

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 Development03:46 Journey to Modern Health Leadership07:04 Aligning Career with Purpose10:52 Reevaluating Hiring Standards in Healthcare14:57 Assessing Ambition Through Resume Signals18:02 Lessons Learned: Trading to Tech Transition20:32 Prioritizing Business Problem Solving25:56 Navigating Startup Challenges and Flexibility26:49 Aligning Projects with Business Priorities31:29 Manual MVP Testing and Scaling34:03 Prioritizing Impact Over BusyworkListen now to The Strategy Gap!

January 29, 2025Episode 3830 min

Startups vs. Corporates: Innovating AI in the High-Stakes World of Healthcare

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 companyThe key to scaling without stifling innovation or creativityA simple yet powerful tactic to ensure strategy doesn’t get lost in daily operationsWhat startups can learn from big corporations—and what they should leave behindListen now to The Strategy Gap and get expert insights from Dave McMullin!

January 15, 2025Episode 3733 min

Why Alignment Matters: Insights on Building Unified Organizations

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.

December 18, 2024Episode 3628 min

The Human Side of Strategy: Engaging Teams in Nonprofit Work

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 asDave 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!

December 11, 2024Episode 3533 min

Why Technology Needs a Seat at the Strategy Table

In this episode of The Strategy Gap, hosts Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause sit down with Tonjia Coverdale, Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer for Operations and Technology at Associated Bank. With over 25 years of experience in technology and strategic leadership, Tonjia brings a unique perspective on how organizations can elevate technology from a back-office function to a powerful enabler of business growth. Her dual expertise in academia and industry offers valuable insights for leaders looking to align strategy with execution.Join us as we explore how to bridge the gap between technology and business strategy, with practical advice and real-world examples from Tonjia\u2019s extensive career. From celebrki7ating technology wins in ways that resonate with stakeholders to aligning tech initiatives with overarching business goals, this episode is packed with insights for leaders at every level. Whether you're a business executive or a technology professional, you\u2019ll walk away with actionable ideas to foster collaboration, optimize strategies, and unlock the full potential of your organization\u2019s technology investments.Why You\u2019ll Want to Listen:Discover why technology should be viewed as a strategic enabler, not just a cost center.Learn how to celebrate tech wins by translating them into measurable business value.Understand the importance of aligning technology initiatives with top-level business goals.Get actionable tips on building collaboration between technologists and business leaders.

November 27, 2024Episode 3432 min

The Impact of Family Values and Global Trends on Strategy

What makes a business thrive in a constantly evolving world? According to Victor André Gamas Mayer, Managing Partner of Gamas Group, the answer lies in mindset, culture, and values. As the leader of a fourth-generation family business, Victor brings a unique perspective on balancing tradition with innovation.In this episode of The Strategy Gap, hosts Jonathan Morgan and Joe Krause explore how Gamas Group has sustained success by embracing family values while adopting a forward-thinking, global mindset.Victor shares powerful insights on the importance of hiring for cultural fit over technical expertise, fostering a culture of accountability, and maintaining a vision for growth that aligns with your company’s core principles. Whether your business operates locally or on an international scale, this episode is packed with practical lessons to help you align your strategy with impactful execution.Why You'll Want to Listen:Learn how to adopt a global mindset to unlock new opportunities for growth.Discover why cultural fit and mindset often outweigh technical skills when hiring.Explore how family values can inform modern business strategies and success.Get actionable tips for creating a company culture rooted in care, responsibility, and accountability.