Are you ready for change? This episode continues our deep dive into Part One of Dean Svarc’s book, Trojan Horse: The Unseen Solution to Critical Business Problems.

We explore the difference between being a Spectator—an owner who views the business from the outside and lets things happen—versus a Transformer. Dean asserts that successful change requires accepting a crucial reality: "Pain is your friend daily". Running away from the discomfort of difficult conversations or holding people accountable only leads to far greater, uncontrolled pain later. Allowing problems to fester is like "cutting off the dog’s tail piece by piece"—a small problem turning into a monumental task.

Dean explains that the title of his book, Trojan Horse, represents the hidden problems in your organization, which are never the obvious issues. By drilling down using the five W’s, the surface problem (e.g., a damaged delivery van) is revealed to be a hidden one (e.g., the employee rushing for lunch).

For owners feeling overwhelmed by chaos, the tactical starting point is simple: Buy a 10-foot whiteboard and write down every single problem—from cultural issues to a missing screw on a machine—then prioritize the critical path. This analytical groundwork is essential before implementing the tactical BASICS framework.

Next episode, we confront the greatest barrier to change: Fear.

This hour is the best investment you’ll make if you’re an executive who knows something is wrong but can't identify what.

• Don't skip Part One! Pick up your copy of Trojan Horse at your favorite book retailer.

• Learn more about moving from chaos to clarity: DeanSvarc.com