Similar to the family systems theory 101 workshop from last year, we wanted to focus on the organizational systems theory that can be at play in a family enterprise. Systems theory in business says what patterns, feedback loops, etc., are contributing to the challenges we are seeing in the business and how to impact those without creating unintended consequences. Designed specifically for consultants, this session will discuss the basic concepts in organizational systems theory and focus on two significant frameworks. Peter Senge’s “Fifth Discipline” to help you guide client businesses toward becoming adaptive, learning organizations that prioritize systems thinking and challenge restrictive mental models. Complementing this, we layer in David Kantor’s Structural Dynamics, equipping you with tools such as the Four-Player Model to map and deconstruct face-to-face communication patterns within leadership teams. By mastering Senge’s learning systems and Kantor’s conversational agility concepts, you will gain a holistic toolkit to diagnose client friction, break through organizational gridlock, and shift teams from reactive problem-solving to sustained, generative growth.
Dr. Charles Eckhart is a clinical psychologist and co-founder of Cathexis Group, a family dynamics and governance consultation firm based in Santa Barbara, California. Charles consults with families and couples of significant wealth to support them through financial and relational transitions like wealth transfer, marriage and divorce, preparing the next generation, to shape family legacy and improve cohesion, and for conflict resolution. Charles also consults with financial institutions to build, train, and support wealth advisors in family dynamics and governance. Prior to the founding of Cathexis Group, Charles had numerous academic teaching and training roles in doctoral clinical training programs. He maintains a visiting professorship at the Chicago Center for Psychoanalysis and a clinical practice. Charles has specialized expertise in psychoanalytic views of experience, relationships, and wealth, and working with Rising Generation families.