Scaling relational services: a masterclass with Mark Smith
Show notes
Why does public service reform usually fail, and what does it take to actually do it right?
In this episode, Joe sits down with Mark Smith, Visiting Professor of Public Service Innovation, former Director of Public Service Reform at Gateshead Council, and one of the UK’s most experienced thinkers and doers in relational public services.
It’s two hours long. And yes, we know - your calendar’s already full. But if you're working in public services and trying to move to a more relational way of working, we promise: it's two hours well spent.
What you’ll take away:
- Why change fails when it ignores lived experiences - and what to do instead
- The mindset shift from delivery to learning
- How to lead transformation without relying on top-down blueprints
- Practical lessons from policing, housing, health, HR, and more
It’s grounded, generous, and full of the kind of insight you only get from someone who’s been in the thick of it for decades.
Join the mission:
- Follow Joe on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/joseph-badman
- Read the latest chapters from our upcoming book: https://relationalservicedesign.com
- Master the methodology: https://basistraining.co.uk/
- Partner with us: https://basis.co.uk