Leaders & Futures

Systems Thinking: Why Leaders Should Care

• Dr. Jose LugoSantiago and Ret. Chief Bob Vasquez • Season 8 • Episode 7

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0:00 | 30:05

This episode focuses on the concept of systems thinking and its application to leadership and decision-making. Dr Lugo explains that systems thinking involves understanding the ecosystem as a mixture of dynamic feedback loops, variables, and actors, rather than thinking in simple linear cause-and-effect terms. He also discusses how leaders often make poor decisions when they fail to see these connections or when they over-adjust processes, creating instability. Chief Vásquez shares personal reflections on the difficulty of finding time for systemic analysis in a fast-paced world and emphasizes the importance of habits and purpose. The conversation concludes with examples of how small actions can have far-reaching effects on others, reinforcing the idea that all people and systems are interconnected.

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