Build Better Boards

In this episode of Build Better Boards , hosts Dr. Keri Jacobs and Richard Fagerlin discuss how directors can shift from a hands-on management mindset to one focused on governance and policy. They explore why operational conversations often creep into the boardroom and how boards can stay grounded in their strategic responsibilities. Many directors enter the boardroom with a management mindset, es...

In this episode of Build Better Boards , hosts Dr. Keri Jacobs and Richard Fagerlin discuss the quiet, consistent practices that make a board resilient. Framed as part of a mini-series on future-proofing, the conversation emphasizes how strong governance habits—though often overlooked—are essential for long-term board and organizational health. Thoughtful discipline in governance helps boards stay...

In this episode of Build Better Boards , hosts Dr. Keri Jacobs and Richard Fagerlin examine how boards can respond to governance failures or crises—either within their own co-op or in the broader industry—without slipping into fear-driven, reactive decision-making. They discuss how thoughtful boards can learn from others’ mistakes, protect trust with management, and avoid overstepping into operati...

In this episode of Build Better Boards , host Mitch Majeski is joined by Dr. Keri Jacobs and Richard Fagerlin to discuss how member engagement, employee satisfaction, and community reputation shape the future of cooperative boards. The conversation explores what makes board service meaningful and how co-ops can attract capable, committed directors in today’s environment.• Member and employee engag...

In Episode 12 of Build Better Boards , host Mitch Majeski joins Dr. Keri Jacobs and Richard Fagerlin to explore how unaddressed boardroom behaviors can quietly shape the culture and effectiveness of a board over time. Building on their previous episode about common boardroom “offenders,” they connect present-day behavioral patterns to long-term consequences—and the need for intentional disruption....

In this episode of Build Better Boards , host Mitch Majeski is joined by Dr. Keri Jacobs and Richard Fagerlin to identify and unpack five common behaviors that derail board effectiveness. They explore how these patterns show up in the boardroom and offer practical ways directors can self-assess and adjust. The vocal minority is the board member who persistently raises the same issue, often driven...

In this episode of Build Better Boards , hosts Mitch Majeski, Dr. Keri Jacobs, and Richard Fagerlin dive into little g governance —the behaviors and culture that shape a board’s effectiveness. While big G sets the structure with bylaws and policies, little g determines how well a board actually functions. Big G vs. little g: Structure matters, but so does boardroom culture. Healthy boards balance...

In this episode of Build Better Boards , hosts Mitch Majeski, Dr. Keri Jacobs, and Richard Fagerlin tackle "Big G" governance—bylaws and structures that define co-op boards. They discuss future-proofing through strategic updates and board selection. Big G & Little G : Big G is formal structure (bylaws, policies); Little G is board culture. Both matter. Bylaw Checkup : Regularly revie...

In this episode of Build Better Boards , hosts Mitch Majeski, Dr. Keri Jacobs, and Richard Fagerlin explore the future of cooperatives and the evolving role of member engagement. They discuss whether co-ops are running on "member engagement fumes" and what boards can do to ensure long-term relevance and loyalty. Member Engagement as an Asset : Engagement is not just about board elections. It is a...

In this episode of Build Better Boards , hosts Richard Fagerlin and Dr. Keri Jacobs introduce their new co-host, Mitch Majeski, and kick off Season 2 with a deep dive into the concept of future-proofing your board. • Meet Mitch Majeski : Learn about Mitch’s background in leadership development and his work with boards, as well as his perspective on the impact of board health on organizational succ...

In this episode of Build Better Boards, hosts Richard Fagerlin and Dr. Keri Jacobs close out their series on the Board Health Model, diving into practical strategies for aligning purpose, refining processes, and driving performance. - The Myth of Perfection: Explore why boards should focus on alignment rather than chasing a “perfect” purpose, process, or performance. - Continuous Improvement: Lear...

In this episode of Build Better Boards, hosts Richard Fagerlin and Dr. Keri Jacobs discuss what to do after a board assessment to turn insights into meaningful action. Four Key Questions: Learn the essential questions boards must ask to transform data into actionable steps. Big G vs. Little G Governance: Understand the difference between structure (Big G) and culture (Little G) and why both matter...

In this episode of Build Better Boards , hosts Richard Fagerlin and Dr. Keri Jacobs share a step-by-step guide to running effective board assessments, avoiding pitfalls, and driving real value. Step One: Agree to Assess – Why alignment is critical before starting. Facilitators Matter – Internal vs. external facilitators: Which is right for your board? Timing is Everything – Avoid distractions and...

In this episode of Build Better Boards, hosts Richard Fagerlin and Dr. Keri Jacobs explore the third leg of the Board Health Model: Performance. They tackle the question, “Are we winning?” and examine how boards can measure and deliver meaningful results. Key Takeaways: Beyond the Numbers: Effective board assessments spark conversations that lead to real impact. Strategic Targets: Focus on governa...

In this episode of Build Better Boards, hosts Richard Fagerlin and Dr. Keri Jacobs dive into the second leg of the Board Health Model: Process. They explore the question, “How do we work?” and discuss how well-designed processes support effective governance. Key Takeaways: - Purpose Drives Process: Effective processes align with the board’s purpose, ensuring actions are meaningful and strategic. -...

In this episode, hosts Richard Fagerlin and Dr. Keri Jacobs delve into the importance of board purpose within the Board Health Model. They start with the question, “Why are we here?” emphasizing that clarity on purpose is foundational for effective governance. Key Takeaways: Purpose Drives Health: Richard and Keri discuss why aligning on purpose strengthens board health and supports organizational...

Welcome to the Build Better Boards podcast! In this inaugural episode, hosts Richard Fagerlin and Dr. Keri Jacobs introduce their vision for helping co-op boards “grow and thrive.” Through relatable stories and years of combined experience in cooperative leadership and board governance, Richard and Keri guide listeners into the purpose behind Build Better Boards . Each from distinct backgrounds—Ke...