#39 Making Strategy Work: Lessons for Leaders and Founders | with Alex M H Smith

In this episode, I speak with Alex M H Smith about what real strategy looks like beyond frameworks and slide decks. We discuss how leaders can recognise weak strategy, why many organisations end up competing in the same ways as everyone else, and what it takes to develop positioning that actually works in practice. Who this episode is for: founders, executives, and strategists looking to build strategies that stand out and actually work in practice. Key topics in this episode Why many strategies fail when they move from boardroom discussions to real-world execution The problem of competitive sameness and how organisations fall into it A South African brand that demonstrates strong strategy in action Alex’s idea of “street strategy” - strategy learned from observing real companies rather than academic frameworks Practical principles founders and executives can use to develop stronger strategy About the guest Alex has spent the past decade helping founders and CEOs think more clearly about strategy, and he is the author of the bestselling book No Bullsh*t Strategy. His path into strategy, however, has been unconventional. Without an MBA, PhD, or corporate consulting background, Alex developed his thinking by closely studying some of the world’s most successful brands and distilling practical lessons about what makes them work. The result is a perspective on strategy that is deliberately simple, direct, and grounded in real-world business practice — what Alex describes as “street strategy.” Final note: If you found this conversation valuable, please share it with your network or leave a rating wherever you listen to podcasts, it really helps grow the conversation. Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational and discussion purposes only and do not constitute financial, investment, or professional advice. Listeners should consult a qualified advisor before making any business or investment decisions.