042 - Say "Yes, And!" to READY, Set, Change with April Callis-Birchmeier

Yes, And! With Avish Parashar

In this conversation with change-management expert April Callis-Birchmeier (CCMP™, PMP®, CSP®), we unpack her R.E.A.D.Y. framework from her READY, Set, Change! Book and framework and translate it into practical moves you can make this quarter. We cover how to turn corporate buzzwords into relevant, relatable stories, why one accountable executive sponsor changes everything, what "just send an email" thinking gets wrong, and how to handle resistance as a signal that people are finally engaging. April also shares the behind-the-scenes story of Michigan's Healthy Michigan Plan rollout and how simple choices (like naming and login labels) can remove adoption friction fast.

Key Takeaways

• R.E.A.D.Y. in brief: Relevant/relatable messaging; Engage leaders as sponsors; Advanced, multi-channel communication; Develop support & training; "Y = Why" to address resistance and cement adoption.

• Story beats slide decks. Use everyday metaphors and images to explain benefits; tailor stories for execs vs. frontline.

• One real sponsor > many names. The accountable "throat to choke" must be visible, vocal, and equipped weekly with talking points.

• Kill "just send an email." Over-reliance on email reduces attention; combine channels (leaders' voice, signage, pop-ups, text, live touchpoints).

• Vendor training ≠ your training. Customize to your workflows so people know what to pick and why.

• Welcome resistance. It's engagement; loop back to the Why and pair mindset shift with behavior change.

Relevant Links

• April's site & training: Springboard Consulting (book, courses, CCMP™ prep). Springboard Consulting

• Book: READY, Set, Change! Simplify and Accelerate Organizational Change. Amazon