Thursday Lunch, the podcast about the magic and mechanisms for creating great brands.
New episodes drop every other Thursday
at noon Pacific Time.
The 4Cs
Constraints - Fixed or limiting factors that define what is possible within a project. They can include time, cost, production capacity, warehouse space, market demand, ingredient availability, funding, and communication or cultural barriers, etc. These constraints shape the scope and execution of a project by setting boundaries on resources and collaboration. For example, delays in responses, inconsistent communication methods, or misunderstandings about agreements can create structural limitations that hinder progress just as much as material or financial limitations do.
What we will or will not do.
Consensus - The creation of alignment, compromise, and commitment of all stakeholders involved in a project. It ensures that decisions are made with collective support, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability. Reaching consensus means balancing diverse perspectives to find workable solutions while maintaining momentum toward shared goals. It also requires clarity on roles, understanding who holds decision-making authority or serves as the gatekeeper, so that agreement translates into effective action.
How we come to agreement.
Communication - Defines how information flows within a project, who shares what, how messages are delivered, and whether those exchanges promote clarity and alignment. It ensures that decisions, updates, and expectations reach the right people at the right time. Open, consistent, and generative communication prevents misunderstandings, strengthens collaboration, and builds trust, enabling teams to respond quickly and work toward shared goals. It also means creating a shared language and recognizing that effective communication depends on mutual understanding, there’s not a single right way. In other words, did everyone understand?
How we talk about it.
Collaboration - The cross-functional commitment of people and resources working together toward a shared goal. It depends on mutual respect, clear roles, and open communication that encourages problem-solving across teams and disciplines. Effective collaboration aligns diverse expertise and perspectives, making the collective effort stronger than individual contributions alone. It also requires flexibility and trust, ensuring that everyone stays engaged, contributes fully, and adapts as the project evolves.
How we get it done.