Episode 23: Chris Spranger’s Guide to Making Work Easier and More Fun
Chris Spranger’s Lean Six Sigma journey began unexpectedly during a co-op at a firetruck manufacturer. Initially uninterested in quality work, he soon became fascinated by tracking production data and solving shop-floor problems. A mouse pad from his boss featuring 'ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt' and a Christmas gift request for Lean Six Sigma by Michael George sealed the deal—Chris was hooked.
In this episode of Quality Time with MoreSteam, Chris chats with Dan about how he has applied Lean tools across industries like healthcare, aerospace, and public service. He shares insights on adapting methodologies to different organizational needs, engaging stakeholders effectively, and why soft skills are critical for success. Chris also explores Measurement System Analysis (MSA), explaining how it ensures reliable data collection and highlights inconsistencies in processes.
It’s all about making work easier and more effective! Tune in to hear why Chris believes improving processes isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about creating better days at work for everyone involved.
In this episode, you will hear about:
1:45 - How a firetruck factory introduced Chris to Lean Six Sigma
3:45 - The role of a mouse pad and a book in shaping his career path
6:26 - Applying Lean tools across diverse industries
9:14 - Common misconceptions about Lean Six Sigma
13:11 - Why communication and people skills are key to success
19:22 - People skills: the art and the science of Lean Six Sigma
20:49 - How MSA ensures consistent and reliable measurements
24:11 - Detecting inconsistencies with MSA
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Host • MoreSteam
Dan Swartwout is the host of Quality Time with MoreSteam. A lifelong Central Ohio resident, Dan is a double Buckeye. He earned both a BA and a law degree from The Ohio State University. Before joining MoreSteam, Dan had a long career as a host, comedian, and master of ceremonies. For 17 years, Dan was the studio audience host for the Ohio Lottery game show Cash Explosion. Dan was also the host of CBuzz, which was a collaboration between the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, WWCD 92.9, and the Columbus Dispatch. On CBuzz, Dan interviewed some of the most prominent entrepreneurs in Central Ohio. From 2002-2020, Dan toured the country as a standup comedian. Tracks from his comedy CD have been played over 5,000 times on Sirius/XM satellite radio. Now, Dan brings his experience and enthusiasm to Quality Time with MoreSteam -- it's business and fun, together.
