Operational Velocity cover art

Operational Velocity

Operational Velocity

By: Gautam Basu
Listen for free

Operational Velocity is a podcast about the business system that converts inputs into cash, decisions into margin, and operational discipline into returns that compound over time. This series is built around one key thesis: the way a business operates determines what it returns. The show works through four main lenses: 1) value creation through operations, 2) operations-first leaders, 3) technology as operational leverage, and 4) PE and the operating model. Each lens is a different way of seeing the same truth; every financial metric you care about has an operational driver sitting upstream of it. In essence, EBITDA margin, free cash flow, and return on capital employed are all operational outcomes. This series is hosted by Gautam Basu (PhD, MBA).

© 2026 Operational Velocity Economics Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • Ep. 1 Introduction to Operational Velocity

    Ep. 1 Introduction to Operational Velocity
    Jun 10 2026

    This is the introductory episode of Operational Velocity, where host Gautam Basu (PhD) lays out the thesis that underpins everything Operational Velocity is: cash flow is an operational outcome, not a financial one. That every metric your board cares about (e.g.) EBITDA margin, free cash flow conversion, return on capital employed has an operational driver sitting upstream of it. The episode works through four lenses: value creation through operations, operations-first leaders, technology as operational leverage, and what private equity has taught us about operational urgency. Each lens is a different way of seeing the same truth. Case studies include Zara's supply chain as a margin strategy, Tim Cook's operational transformation of Apple, Alan Mulally's colour-coded discipline at Ford, and the real reason Lou Gerstner saved IBM. Plus a critical look at if AI technology is creating genuine operational leverage in 2026.

    Show More Show Less
    26 mins
adbl_web_anon_alc_button_suppression_t1
No reviews yet