Show notes
In this second part of my conversation with Graham McAllister, we explore Graham's next pivot to studying organizational psychology at the London School of Economics. After selling his startup, Graham decided to do an MSc to help him answer what he now saw as the core problem in game development teams and that was lack of a unified vision. He shares his insights into shared mental models, vision alignment, shared values, diversity in hiring, and building resilient teams. He also discusses how these principles can be applied to other creative and research collaborations. Keep an eye out for the final episode in this series with Graham where he shares practical tips on the art and practice of writing.Overview:00:00 Intro00:29 Episode Introduction02:30 The Turning Point: Leaving the Company and Writing a Book04:54 Discovering Organizational Psychology05:44 The Journey to London School of Economics07:16 The All-Consuming Feeling of Vision11:07 The Importance of Education and Luck16:26 Reflections on Lifelong Learning19:22 Applying Mental Models Beyond Games20:42 Understanding Alignment and Values in Organizations23:39 Rethinking Hiring Practices and Leadership26:46 Setting a Vision and Mission29:01 Building a Mental Model32:19 Operationalizing Shared Values36:26 Detecting and Addressing Cultural Beliefs38:15 Preview of Part 3 on Writing40:38 End Related Links:Graham’s Home page and LinkedIn ProfileCAL120 Part 1 episode with Graham on his previous career pivotsKotter’s Change Model https://www.kotterinc.com/methodology/8-steps/Edgar Schein’s three layer of organizational culture - see variousdiscussions: https://psychsafety.com/psychological-safety-edgar-scheins-three-layers-of-organisational-culture/https://mitsloan.mit.edu/ideas-made-to-matter/5-enduring-management-ideas-mit-sloans-edgar-scheinhttps://www.managementstudyguide.com/sigma/edgar-schein-model.htmOriginal 1983 paper
