The Edges of Lean — Ep 138 Sabrina Malter: Continuously Learning

 

Key Takeaways

  • Sabrina’s journey from the pharmaceutical industry to management consulting focused on learning and lean principles
  • The importance of creating psychologically safe environments for learning and coaching
  • Key insights on writing a book, including the value of accountability and developing one’s writing voice
  • Sabrina’s book “Lernen leben” (“Learning and Living)” (available in the German language only) focuses on fostering a learning mindset and culture in organizations

Sabrina’s Career Journey

  • 25 years in the pharmaceutical industry, starting in quality testing
  • Transitioned to people and culture, then back to production
  • Gradually learned about lean, initially viewing it as just tools
  • Gained a deeper understanding of lean as a learning and continuous improvement approach

Introduction to Coaching

  • Implemented peer coaching program for the leadership team
  • Started with basics: open-ended questions, active listening
  • Learned about Kata coaching, which became a powerful tool
  • Created a “coaching community of practice” for ongoing learning

Learning Mindset and Culture

  • Emphasizes learning as a state of mind, not a fixed characteristic
  • Discusses psychological safety, trust, and accountability in learning cultures
  • Focuses on making change easier by applying learning principles

Book Writing Process

  • Worked with a book coach to improve writing style and process
  • Learned the importance of writing for reader enjoyment
  • Used accountability (telling others, publisher deadline) to stay motivated
  • Developed a writing routine and personal mantras

Book Content

  • Aimed at people leaders and change agents
  • Covers learning attitudes, culture, Kata coaching, and change management
  • Includes case studies from companies promoting learning

Sabrina Malter is passionate about creating a work environment where everyone can bring their full self to work and make the boldest impact for the organization and beyond. She loves to challenge, encourage, and support organizations that embark on their learning and growth journey. Sabrina brings her passion to life as a Leadership and learning coach and consultant at her own business, Unveil Business Consulting GmbH. She understands the power of Lean thinking in working towards her vision with a special expertise and skill in Kata Coaching, Leadership Development and Cultural Change. Sabrina’s 25 years of industry background brought her experience and expertise in Business Transformations, Organizational Development and Strategy Management. Her educational background includes a M.Sc. in Sustainability Management from The Open University, UK, as well as further study on Leading People Centered Change, Leadership Coaching, and Professional Resilience. Sabrina lives with her husband and two daughters in the south of Germany. Find Sabrina on LinkedIn or at https://www.unveil-businessconsulting.com