PODCAST

Feeling Bloated? Time for Some Lean Consulting

For decades, big problems meant hiring big consulting firms. The logic was simple: size equals impact. But what if that model is fundamentally broken? What if the hundred-page slide decks, massive teams, and staggerin…

Episode 05 · 27 min · August 18, 2025

Show notes

For decades, big problems meant hiring big consulting firms. The logic was simple: size equals impact. But what if that model is fundamentally broken? What if the hundred-page slide decks, massive teams, and staggering bills are a sign of waste, not value? In this episode, Ben Griswold (Grizen) and Noah Heldman (OutcomeSource) make the case for a different approach: *Lean Consulting*. They break down why small, senior, and persistent teams are better equipped to deliver real business impact than their bloated, old-school counterparts. Drawing on a story of launching a mobile app in just five weeks by breaking the rules, they reveal how cutting waste—not corners—leads to faster pivots, deeper alignment with business goals, and a more effective partnership. *In This Episode, You'll Learn:* * The key differences between "bloated" and "lean" consulting models. * Why connecting high-level strategy directly to on-the-ground execution is non-negotiable for success. * The rise of the "Forward Deployed Engineer" and why generalists with business acumen are so valuable. * How a small, nimble team launched a production-ready mobile app in just five weeks. * The three pillars of lean consulting: persistent teams, direct stakeholder access, and the ability to pivot fast. *Connect with Us:* * Ben Griswold | Grizen: https://grizen.com * Noah Heldman | OutcomeSource: https://outcomesource.com

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