Andrea J. Simon, PhD: The Power of Anthropology in Transforming Businesses
Andrea J. Simon, PhD, commonly known as Andi Simon, is a pioneering figure in the realm of corporate anthropology. As the founder and CEO of Simon Associates Management Consultants (SAMC), Andi has made a profound impact on businesses by applying anthropological methods and perspectives to organizational challenges. Born on December 1, 1946, Andi has built a remarkable career that spans decades, helping companies understand their cultures, navigate change, and achieve sustainable growth.
The Intersection of Anthropology and Business
Andi Simon’s journey into corporate anthropology is rooted in her deep fascination with human behavior and cultural dynamics. Anthropology, the study of human societies and cultures, has traditionally been associated with academia and fieldwork. However, Andi recognized its potential to revolutionize the business world. She founded SAMC with the vision of leveraging anthropological insights to help organizations see their cultures through fresh eyes and drive meaningful change.
For over two decades, SAMC has been at the forefront of using anthropology’s theory, methods, and tools to address complex business challenges. Andi’s work focuses on understanding the cultural underpinnings of organizations, enabling them to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world. Her ethnographic research has been particularly influential in senior living communities, where she has explored ways to enhance the quality of life for older adults. Beyond this, she has conducted similar research for clients across various sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, higher education, and service industries.
A Leader in Change Management
One of Andi Simon core areas of expertise is change management. As a John Mattone-trained executive coach, she has conducted over 500 workshops and engagements around Change Matters and Blue Ocean Strategy®. Her approach emphasizes the importance of understanding organizational culture as a foundation for successful change initiatives. By helping companies identify and address cultural barriers, Andi enables them to embrace new strategies and achieve their business goals.
Andi’s thought leadership has been widely recognized, with her insights featured in prominent publications such as Inc.com, Business Week, Good Morning America, and Modern Healthcare. She has also contributed as a blogger for Forbes, Huffington Post, and Fierce Healthcare. Her ability to translate complex anthropological concepts into practical business solutions has made her a sought-after consultant and speaker.
Acclaimed Author and Advocate for Women in Business
In addition to her consulting work, Andi Simon is an accomplished author. Her first book, On the Brink: A Fresh Lens to Take Your Business to New Heights, received the Axiom Bronze Best Business Book of 2017 award. The book offers a compelling narrative on how businesses can leverage anthropological insights to innovate and grow. Andi’s ability to connect anthropology with business strategy has resonated with readers, making On the Brink a valuable resource for leaders seeking to stay ahead of the curve.
Building on the success of her first book, Andi released her second book, Rethink: Smashing the Myths of Women in Business, in January 2021. The book quickly became an Amazon bestseller and was recognized with the 2022 Axiom Bronze Best Business Book award. Rethink challenges traditional notions of women in business and showcases the stories of contemporary women who are defying norms and pioneering innovative solutions in their respective fields. Andi’s commitment to elevating women’s voices and experiences is evident throughout the book, making it an inspiring read for aspiring female leaders.
Andi’s latest book, Women Mean Business: Over 500 Insights from Extraordinary Leaders to Spark Your Success, was published in September 2023. Co-authored with Edie Fraser and Robyn Spizman, the book brings together the wisdom of 102 exceptional women leaders. Women Mean Business is a celebration of women in leadership and a powerful tool for those seeking to navigate the challenges of the business world. The experience of assembling this book was extraordinary for Andi, and it stands as a testament to her dedication to empowering women.
A Voice in the Global Podcasting Space
Andi Simon’s influence extends beyond books and consulting. Her podcast, On the Brink with Andi Simon, has become a global sensation, ranked among the top 5% of podcasts worldwide. The podcast is also rated among the top 20 for futurists, reflecting Andi’s forward-thinking approach and her ability to connect with a diverse audience. Through her podcast, Andi shares insights on business, culture, and change, offering listeners valuable perspectives from leading experts across various industries.
A Lifelong Educator and Entrepreneur
Andi Simon’s commitment to education and entrepreneurship is evident in her academic and philanthropic endeavors. In 2007, she served as a visiting professor at Washington University in St. Louis, where she taught entrepreneurship to undergraduates. Andi and her husband, Andy Simon, who share the same name and have been married for over 55 years, established the Simon Initiative for Entrepreneurship at Washington University from 2015 to 2018. The initiative was designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurial thinking among students, further cementing Andi’s legacy as a champion of entrepreneurship.
Balancing Career and Personal Life
Throughout her career, Andi Simon has demonstrated the importance of balancing professional success with personal fulfillment. She has raised two daughters while maintaining a full-time career as a professor, researcher, and business leader. Now, with her husband Andy, Andi continues to build her business, travel the world (having visited over 37 countries), and enjoy the pleasures of family life. The couple spent 25 years as fox hunters, and Andi is now on a mission to master the sport of golf. Her passion for helping other women rise and succeed is a driving force in her life, and she continues to share her journey with others.
A Legacy of Transformation and Empowerment
Andrea J. Simon, PhD, is more than just a corporate anthropologist; she is a catalyst for transformation. Through her work with SAMC, her writing, and her podcast, Andi has touched the lives of countless individuals and organizations. Her ability to see the world through an anthropological lens has enabled her to identify opportunities for change and innovation that others might overlook. As she continues to inspire and empower leaders around the globe, Andi Simon’s legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
For more information about Andi Simon and her work, visit her website at www.andisimon.com. To explore her books, click here and follow her on social media through the links below:
For press coverage and past features, click here, and to watch Andi’s sizzle reel, click here.
