KPI Fireside: A Continuous Improvement Podcast
Your go-to source for expert discussions on Continuous Improvement, Lean Six Sigma, and Strategy Execution.
In this kickoff episode of KPI Fireside, host Keith Norris sits down with Lean Accounting expert Nick Katko—author, consultant, and pioneer in connecting finance with continuous improvement.
🔥 Key Takeaways & Moments:
- Nick’s Lean Origin Story – From CFO at Bullard to a champion of Lean transformations, Nick shares how one company’s leap into Lean opened his eyes—and changed everything.
- Why Standard Costing Falls Short – Discover why traditional accounting systems often clash with Lean initiatives and how value stream income statements can transform decision-making.
- The Box Score Breakdown – Learn how Nick’s mentor, Brian Maskell, developed a powerful tool to align operational performance, capacity, and financials.
- Common Pitfalls in Lean Journeys – Nick reveals red flags to watch out for, including cherry-picking tools and losing sight of Lean as a learning culture.
- The ROI of Lean & Creating Capacity – Nick shares how to reframe “cost savings” and make a compelling case for Lean by showing how it improves flow, frees up time, and strengthens customer service.
- Advice for Finance Pros & CI Leaders – Whether you’re in accounting or operations, find out how to build a career in Lean and make your role central to transformation.
About the Podcast
Our mission is simple: to improve companies and to improve careers through Continuous Improvement.
We are here to share inspiring stories and journeys from individuals who have embarked on the path of Continuous Improvement. Through interviews with leaders, innovators, and change-makers, we explore the sparks that ignite transformation—both within organizations and in personal and career growth.
We know the path to improvement can be lonely at times. You might be trying to push an improvement agenda in an organization that wants to keep doing things the old way. That’s why we bring you real stories from professionals who have faced similar challenges, helping you stay motivated and armed with the best insights to drive meaningful change.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your improvement efforts to the next level, KPI Fireside is here to guide, inspire, and empower you.