In this episode, Keith Norris sits down with Dr. Alan Barnard—decision scientist, CEO of Goldratt Research Labs, and one of the world’s leading experts on the Theory of Constraints—to explore how organizations can solve the right problems, not just the most obvious ones. Drawing on decades of research, consulting, and direct work with Dr. Eli Goldratt, Alan shares practical insights into how TOC helps companies focus their improvement efforts where it matters most.
🔻 Why most systems fail by solving the wrong problems first
🔻 How the Theory of Constraints reveals the real bottleneck blocking progress
🔻 The five types of constraints every system must manage
🔻 Why “focus” beats “fix everything” in continuous improvement
🔻 How to apply TOC principles to flow, decision-making, and strategy
🔻 Why finding the constraint is the first step to making better, faster decisions
Whether you're leading improvement initiatives, scaling a business, or simply trying to move faster without chaos, this episode delivers a practical, thought-provoking framework for solving the right problems—and unlocking exponential impact.
🔗 Learn more about Dr. Barnard: https://goldrattresearchlabs.com/
🔗 Connect with Dr. Barnard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralanbarnard/
🎙 Hosted by Keith Norris – https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithnorris/
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and everywhere you get your podcasts.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
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Dateline NBC
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