Episode 25 - Unlocking Corporate Anthropology and Blue Ocean Strategy with Dr. Andy Simon

Summary:
In this inspiring and thought-provoking conversation, Lori sits down with Dr. Andy Simon—corporate anthropologist, author, and founder of Simon Associates Management Consultants—to uncover how anthropology, curiosity, and strategy can radically transform the way we lead and do business.

From studying Middle Eastern immigrants to helping major corporations navigate deregulation and cultural change, Andy shares her journey of translating human behavior into better business outcomes. Together, she and Lori explore Blue Ocean Strategy, the power of curiosity, and how leaders can create joyful, purpose-driven workplaces—even in times of rapid change and AI disruption.
This episode is a masterclass in seeing the world differently. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your organization, or you’re craving a new way to lead with both data and heart—this conversation is for you.

🔑 Key Takeaways
See with “Fresh Eyes”
Corporate anthropology teaches leaders to step back and observe—before solving. Andy reminds us that lasting transformation begins when you challenge assumptions and look at your organization as an outsider.
Audience follow-up → What might you discover if you observed your team like a curious anthropologist this week?
Find Your Blue Ocean
Instead of competing in crowded markets (“red oceans”), Andy urges leaders to create new spaces of value through innovation, culture, and differentiation.
Audience follow-up → Where are you stuck competing—and what could you create that no one else is offering?
Curiosity as a Leadership Superpower
Curiosity fuels innovation and empathy. Andy and Lori unpack how leaders who stay curious foster adaptability, creativity, and trust in their teams.
Audience follow-up → How can you make curiosity a daily practice in your leadership?
AI and the Human Advantage
While AI is transforming industries, Andy emphasizes that the future still belongs to leaders who understand people—their habits, emotions, and motivations.
Audience follow-up → What human quality will you double down on as technology evolves?
Build Cultures of Joy and Purpose
Joy isn’t just a feeling—it’s a cultural strategy. When employees feel seen, valued, and inspired, innovation thrives.
Audience follow-up → How can you infuse joy into your team’s daily rhythm?

🔎 Mentioned in the Episode
Blue Ocean Strategy – Framework for creating uncontested market space

Simon Associates Management Consultants – Andy’s firm helping organizations change through anthropology

“On the Brink: A Fresh Lens to Take Your Business to New Heights” – Andy’s bestselling book

The Impact of AI on Human Workplaces – Reimagining connection and meaning in a digital era

Lori’s Reflections on Joyful Leadership – How joy sustains innovation and balance



✨ Reflection Prompts
What assumptions might be keeping you (or your team) from innovating?
How do you respond to change—with fear or with curiosity?
What would it look like to lead with joy as a strategic choice, not just an emotional one?


🧠 Who This Episode Is For
Executives and leaders navigating organizational change
Entrepreneurs seeking fresh market opportunities
HR and culture professionals focused on engagement and innovation
Anyone curious about applying anthropology and strategy to leadership


📩 Want to Go Deeper?
Follow Lori on LinkedIn to continue the conversation
Learn more about Andy’s work: Simon Associates Management Consultants
Book a Leadership Strategy Call with Lori: loripine.com
🎧 Subscribe to The Joy CEO Podcast
⭐️ Leave a review to help other heart-centered leaders find the show
📲 Share this episode with someone who’s navigating pressure and wants to do it with more grace

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction to the Joy CEO Podcast
00:50 – Meet Andy Simon: Corporate Anthropologist
01:53 – The Journey to Becoming a Corporate Anthropologist
04:30 – Embracing Change in the Corporate World
08:37 – Exploring Blue Ocean Strategy
12:34 – Leadership in Changing Times
16:01 – The Importance of Personal Branding
20:21 – The Role of AI in Modern Business
22:19 – Finding Joy in Work and Life
24:10 – The Power of Positivity and Influence
24:43 – Trusting Your Curiosity and Embracing Change
25:28 – Corporate Culture: From Toxicity to Joy
28:47 – Purpose-Driven Companies and Their Impact
32:28 – Leadership and Personal Growth
38:54 – Rapid Fire Questions: Leadership Insights
46:40 – Conclusion and Podcast Promotion