In this episode, Michael Raynor — author of The Strategy Paradox and co-author with Clayton Christensen of The Innovator’s Solution — joins Aidan McCullen to explore why most strategies fail and how leaders can fix them.

From the RAP (Resource Allocation Process) model to the real-world case of BCE’s diversification journey, Raynor unpacks how strategy is shaped by resource allocation, risk, and CEO intervention. Learn how top leaders can navigate uncertainty, overcome divisional barriers, and unlock strategic synergies.

🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Why strategies often fail — and the CEO’s role in fixing them
How the RAP model explains real-world decision-making
Lessons from BCE’s diversification journey
The tension between divisional goals and corporate strategy
Practical tools for managing risk and strategic integration

⏱️ Episode Guide
00:00 Intro & Kyndryl Overview
00:28 Historical Perspectives on Strategy
00:57 Approaches to Resource Allocation
02:36 Guest Introduction: Michael Raynor
03:13 Academic Journey & Mentors
07:35 The RAP Model Explained
11:32 Challenges in Strategic Decision Making
22:51 BCE’s Diversification Story
31:46 Entering Mobile Telephony
32:28 Strategic Synergies & Capital Constraints
33:48 Independent Operations & Market Dynamics
35:19 Challenges of Strategic Integration
36:11 Retail Distribution & Evolutionary Lessons
38:36 Governance Rights & Incentive Structures
48:31 Historical Lessons & Modern Applications
58:20 Concluding Thoughts & Future Directions

🚀 Topics Covered: strategy, resource allocation, RAP model, diversification, BCE, corporate governance, disruptive innovation, CEO decision-making, real options, strategic integration.

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Michael Raynor on Strategy RAP Model BCE Case Study

The Innovation Show