Clark dives into how we use the value stick to understand value and design. This episode includes a discussion of:

• What is Customer Utility
• How we see resources consume
• Value as Surplus Utility
• Design as the processes of innovating new solutions to customer needs that provider greater utility or lower resource consumption for increased value. Synergy is a major component
• A look at the entire system and sharing surplus value

In this episode we explore the layered motivations for creating a structure for standardization and innovation, ultimately leading to greater individual growth.

Clark also overviews topics we will cover in future episodes.

In this first episode, explain a few (probably not all) of the reasons for creating this podcast, and what to expect (as far as I can see now, which is certain to change).

• To just get started. The host admits he doesn't have a clear plan for the format and believes the best way to figure it out is to begin the process.

• To create a format for personal reflection. The host explains that writing and journaling are too slow for his thought process, possibly due to dyslexia. He hopes that the audio format will allow him to "strike while the iron is hot" and better process his thoughts and creative ideas.

• To facilitate meaningful conversations. The host expresses a desire for long-form dialogue and believes social media and short-form content lack the nuance needed for genuine connection. He hopes the podcast will encourage listeners to engage in deeper conversations.

• To serve as an internal training tool. The host plans to use the podcast to share discussions and ideas with his employees. He finds that written training materials can be difficult for some people to access and videos are often inconvenient to watch. He believes an audio format will make this content more accessible for his team, especially during tasks like driving or production work.

• To process a wide range of topics. The host acknowledges that this may be a "bad practice" for podcasts but states that he will cover various topics in one show, rather than creating multiple podcasts. He plans to cover a mixed bag of content for employees, customers, and friends, and he will title the episodes clearly so listeners can choose which ones to tune in for.