November 17, 2024 by Mike Manazir – (4-5 minutes) The Brick Chronicles: A Knowledge Gap Blows Up a Big Deal Sarah Thompson, CEO of Baxter’s Bricks, reviewed the quarterly report. She saw an urgent email from Tom Jenkins, the Environmental Impact Manager. Subject: Major Project Setback—Need Help Tom walked in with a frown. “Sarah, we’ve … Read more

November 3, 2024 by Mike Manazir – (4-5 minutes) The Brick Chronicles Sarah Thompson, CEO of Baxter’s Bricks, leaned back in her chair, sipping coffee as an email from Rick Nelson, COO, popped up. Subject: Virtual Marketing Team is Melting Down – Help. Rick strolled in. “Marketing teams on fire. Deadlines missed, no one’s communicating. … Read more

October 20, 2024 by Mike Manazir – (4-5 minutes) The Brick Chronicles Sarah Thompson, CEO of Baxter’s Bricks, sat with Emily Davis, the new Director of Sales and Marketing. The quarterly numbers were up, but Sarah knew they needed more than just engagement. “We’ve come a long way online, but how do we turn engagement … Read more

October 13, 2024 by Mike Manazir – (4-5 minutes) The Brick Chronicles Sarah Thompson, CEO of Baxter’s Bricks, stared at the latest social media report. Despite great products, their online presence was flat. “We’re delivering, Rick,” she said to COO Rick Nelson, “but online, it’s like we don’t exist.” Rick scrolled through their Instagram feed—dull … Read more

October 7, 2024 by Mike Manazir – (4-5 minutes) Sarah Thompson, CEO of Baxter’s Bricks, stared at her screen. One of their biggest clients had sent feedback: “It feels like you’re not listening to what we need.” She shared the email with Rick Nelson, COO, the next morning. “We’ve been so focused on growth—innovating, expanding—but … Read more

September 29, 2024 by Mike Manazir – (4-5 minutes) Sarah Thompson, CEO of Baxter’s Bricks, sat at the head of the conference table reviewing the latest quarterly report. Profits were down, deadlines were missed, and projects were over budget. A note from the finance team caught her eye: “Missed deadlines due to lack of follow-through.” … Read more

September 22, 2024 by Mike Manazir – (4-5 minutes) Leaders are challenged to balance competing demands, such as rationalizing short-term financial performance with long-term strategic growth, managing employee needs against shareholder expectations and aligning company goals with ethical standards and social responsibilities. Leaders must also sustain customer satisfaction while controlling the business bottom line as … Read more

September 1, 2024 by Mike Manazir – (4-5 minutes) The Brick Chronicles At Baxter’s Bricks, the future isn’t just about stronger, more efficient production—it’s about sustainability. And no one understands this better than Tom Jenkins. As the Environmental Impact Manager, Tom reports directly to Rick Nelson, the COO, and is spearheading one of the most … Read more

March 4, 2024 by Mike Manazir – (4-5 minutes) It was March 2009. I was Captain of the USS Nimitz. We were sailing the eastern pacific ocean conducting workups after our long maintenance period to confirm we were ready for action. The Officer of the Deck is the senior person in charge on the bridge … Read more