What actually turns a big initiative from vision on paper into meaningful business results? On the Rising Tide Leadership podcast, Propeller Senior People & Change Director Riley Smith pulls back the curtain on the human mechanics of execution — drawing on a non‑linear path from classroom teacher to change leader. He makes a simple case: strategy sticks when leaders stay visible, make the “why” measurable, and invest in adoption long after kickoff. From the thorny middle of delivery (such as UAT) to the moments when teams hit resistance, Riley shares how sponsorship, clarity, and steady communication turn momentum into outcomes.
If you lead transformations (or you’ve been handed one), this conversation gives you the playbook behind the playbook: how to earn influence, spot untapped talent, and protect ROI by budgeting for the people side of change. The conversation blends real-world stories with practical tactics leaders can apply right away.
In this episode, Dr. Mo and Riley answer questions, like:
- How do leaders serve as the critical link from strategy to execution?
- What mistakes do leaders most often make during transformations?
- What defines a high-performing team in consulting environments?
“The most important predictor of change success is visible, sustained leadership sponsorship.”
# Key Topics Covered
- Why visible, ongoing executive sponsorship unlocks adoption and outcomes
- Tying change metrics to business outcomes (retention, satisfaction, time savings)
- Budgeting for change management (e.g., ~7.5–10% on large programs)
- Where leaders spend time when teams are in the thick of delivery (e.g., UAT)
- Traits of high‑performing teams: ownership, influence, creativity, business acumen
- How to spot and grow untapped talent on project teams
- Personal practices for sustainable leadership (boundaries, growth mindset)
