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The Innovation Meets Leadership Podcast

The Innovation Meets Leadership Podcast

By Natalie Born

We exist to empower your innovation and leadership transformation journey. Collaboration, innovation, and transformation are not just concepts they are how business gets done.
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17. Innovation in Learning with Eric Gibbs

The Innovation Meets Leadership PodcastMay 16, 2021

00:00
19:32
21. Do Bigger Things with Dan McClure

21. Do Bigger Things with Dan McClure

Can the complex, interconnected challenges of our era be addressed through traditional innovation methods, or is there a more powerful approach waiting to be unleashed?

In this episode, host Natalie Born engages with Dan McClure, a visionary in the field of innovation, to explore his latest book, "Do Bigger Things." McClure delves into the necessity for a new, potent form of innovation capable of tackling today's complex, wicked problems. Through a lively discussion, the episode unfolds the concept of "Innovation Choreography," offering insights into how individuals and organizations can navigate and influence the intricate web of modern challenges. This conversation is a deep dive into reimagining the potential of innovation to create meaningful, transformative change.

Dan is an innovation choreographer, a big picture innovator whose job is to run into burning buildings looking for exceptional opportunities to reinvent the way the world works. He is a recognized thought leader in the emerging practice of ecosystem innovation and the author of the Fast Company Press book "Do Bigger Things – A practical guide to powerful innovation in a changing world". Throughout his 40 year career, he has worked with global firms facing threats of obsolescence, pioneering businesses in fast changing markets, and international organizations tackling tough challenges like climate change and pandemic response. He is excited about the future and the possibilities for pursuing bold ambitious ideas.  

[00:00:17 - 00:01:22] Unveiling the Next Innovation Frontier

McClure introduces the premise of "Do Bigger Things."

  • Innovation must evolve to address complex challenges.

  • The concept of "Innovation Choreography" as a strategy.

  • The importance of rethinking traditional approaches.

[00:02:09 - 00:05:38] The Choreographer's Mindset in Innovation

  • Discussion on McClure's background and the origins of his innovative thinking.

  • Embracing complex problems as opportunities.

  • The role of a diverse skill set in driving innovation.

  • The significance of "playbooks" in managing complexity.

[00:06:13 - 00:09:19] Building Modular, Adaptable Organizations

  • How to structure organizations for flexibility and innovation.

  • The metaphor of innovation as building with Lego blocks.

  • The necessity for organizations to support innovation at all levels.

  • Designing organizations to be modular and adaptable.

[00:10:13 - 00:15:00] From Vision to Implementation: The Innovator's Journey

  • Strategies for aligning innovation with organizational vision and making it actionable.

  • Aligning innovation efforts with the organization's broader goals.

  • The importance of a holistic approach to innovation.

  • The role of cross-functional support and partnerships.

[00:15:55 - 00:24:40] The Role of Innovation Choreographers

  • Expanding on the concept and importance of innovation choreographers.

  • The unique skill set of an innovation choreographer.

  • How to identify and nurture these individuals within organizations.

  • The impact of innovation choreographers on industry and societal challenges.

Quotes

"We live in a world that has the problems that need us." - Dan McClure

"It's nice not to have to apologize for the talents that you've got." - Dan McClure

Connect with Dan:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccluredc

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website

innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.


Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Mar 17, 202424:47
20. Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win with Ben Guttmann

20. Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win with Ben Guttmann

Have you ever considered how the simplicity of your message could be the key to breakthrough communication? Discover how to cut through the noise and connect more effectively.In this insightful episode of "Innovation Meets Leadership," host Natalie Born sits down with marketing communications expert and author Ben Guttmann to explore the power of simplicity in messaging.


Gutman shares his journey from starting a marketing agency to teaching and writing, emphasizing the critical importance of clear, concise communication in our cluttered world. Through engaging stories and practical advice, this episode uncovers the secrets to designing messages that resonate, inspire action, and stand the test of time. Dive into a conversation that will transform the way you think about marketing, leadership, and the art of communication.


Ben Guttmann is a marketing and communications expert and author of Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win — and How to Design Them. He’s an experienced marketing executive and educator on a mission to get leaders to more effectively connect by simplifying their message. Ben is former co-founder and managing partner at Digital Natives Group, an award-winning agency that worked with the NFL, I Love NY, Comcast NBCUniversal, Hachette Book Group, The Nature Conservancy, and other major clients. Currently, Ben teaches digital marketing at Baruch College in New York City and consults with a range of thought leaders, venture-backed startups, and other brands.


[00:00:00 - 00:03:00] Unveiling Simplicity in CommunicationIntroduction of Ben Gutman and the essence of simplicity in messaging.The backstory of Gutman's journey from a student to a marketing guru.The inspiration behind his book, "Simply Put."


[00:03:00 - 00:08:00] The Science of Simple MessagesHow cognitive fluency impacts message reception and action.The struggle between sender complexity and receiver preference for simplicity.The role of empathy in crafting effective communications.


[00:08:00 - 00:12:00] Design Principles for Powerful MessagingThe five design principles for simplicity in messages.The common mistakes in communication and how to avoid them.The significance of focusing on benefits over features.


[00:12:00 - 00:16:00] The Art of SimplificationPractical strategies for simplifying complex ideas.The importance of asking "So what?" to find the core benefit.How to use the "So what?" method to connect deeply with your audience.


[00:16:00 - 00:20:00] The Future of Communication: AI and BeyondGutman's nuanced view on the role of AI in communication.The potential and limitations of generative AI for content creation.How simplicity remains crucial amidst the rise of AI-generated content.


Quotes:"The messages that work... are simple." - Ben Guttmann"We are all marketers in many ways." - Ben Guttmann


Connect with Ben:Website: https://www.benguttmann.com/LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.


Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.coThese are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process.


Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Mar 03, 202424:25
19. The Power of Pay Equality with Sally Loftis

19. The Power of Pay Equality with Sally Loftis

How can organizations create a more equitable pay structure and what impact does this have on innovation and business success?


In this insightful episode, host Natalie Born engages with Sally Loftis, Managing Director at Loftus Partners. They delve into the intricate relationship between human resources strategy and business innovation, focusing on the pivotal role of pay equity in fostering a thriving, innovative workplace. Sally shares her extensive expertise in human resources, emphasizing how addressing pay justice and equity can drive positive change in organizational culture and performance.


Sally Loftis is the daughter of teachers, innovators, and visionaries who taught her from a young age to deeply listen to everyone in her circle of influence. Starting with activism in high school, Sally volunteered and worked in spaces so that all people feel seen, heard, and represented in her work. Sally is the Managing Director at Loftis Partners, a 100% woman-owned human resources consulting firm located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.

Loftis Partners specializes in strategy, people, facilitation, and pay justice. Since launching in August 2020, Sally and her firm have worked with 54 clients across 3 continents.


(00:00 - 04:59) The Journey to HR and Business Strategy 

  • Sally's extensive background in human resources.

  • The evolution of HR beyond traditional roles.

  • The critical role of strategic HR in business success.

(05:00 - 09:59) Unpacking Pay Equity and Justice 

  • Definition and importance of pay equity.

  • Challenges in achieving pay justice.

  • The impact of wage stagnation and cost of living adjustments.

(10:00 - 13:59) Overcoming Systemic Barriers to Pay Equity 

  • Strategies for addressing systemic issues in pay structures.

  • The role of leadership in fostering pay equity.

  • Insights into innovative practices in pay equity.

 (14:00 - 17:59) The Relationship Between Pay and Workplace Innovation

  • How pay impacts employee innovation and motivation.

  • The connection between financial security and creative thinking.

  • Strategies for organizations to encourage innovation through equitable pay.

(18:00 - 21:59) Actionable Steps Towards Pay Equity 

  • Practical steps for organizations to achieve pay equity.

  • The importance of transparent and fair pay practices.

  • Future directions and challenges in pay equity.

Quotes:

"It's hard to be innovative when you're fearful if you can pay your bills or not." - Sally Loftis

"If I take this risk with this innovative idea and it doesn't work, does that mean I'm going to have a job on the other end?" - Sally Loftis


Connect with Sally:

Website: https://www.loftispartners.com/


LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.


Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co


These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.


Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!


Feb 18, 202422:54
18. Driving Transformation & Change with Chris Green

18. Driving Transformation & Change with Chris Green

How can leaders navigate the challenges of being 'asleep at the wheel' and transform their organizations into thriving, purpose-driven entities?


In this insightful episode, host Natalie Born engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Chris Green, a managing partner at Arch and Tower. They delve into the intricacies of leadership, the art of transforming organizations, and the significance of employee and customer experiences. Green shares his journey from a generalist background to a pivotal role in organizational development, offering valuable insights into the psychological aspects of leadership and the importance of aligning organizational strategy with human motivation.


Chris Green is a founder and Managing Partner of Arch + Tower, a Business Transformation team, operating in the Advisory Group of Frazier & Deeter. Arch + Tower focuses on serving clients who are looking to transform their organizations to achieve goals within Customer Experience, Employee Experience, Operational Excellence, or Digital Transformation...almost anything that helps an organization predictably get where they want to go. 


(00:01:00 - 00:05:59) The Journey of a Generalist 

  • The value of diverse experiences in shaping leadership skills.

  • Importance of adaptability and learning in different roles.

  • How a generalist approach can lead to innovative problem-solving.

(00:06:00 - 00:10:59) Visionary Leadership and Overcoming Fatigue 

  • The role of vision in guiding organizational change.

  • Addressing and managing organizational and project fatigue.

  • Empowering leaders to pursue their vision amidst overwhelming priorities.

(00:11:00 - 00:15:59) Organizational Transformation Barriers 

  • The impact of leadership styles on organizational change.

  • Strategies for CEOs to align their teams with transformation goals.

  • Understanding the psychological barriers to change.

 (00:16:00 - 00:20:59) Tools for Clarity and Decision Making

  • Utilizing Maslow's hierarchy in organizational decision-making.

  • Importance of addressing foundational issues for effective change.

  • Techniques for leaders to gain clarity and direction.

(00:21:00 - 00:25:59) Cultivating a Purpose-Driven Life and Career 

  • Strategies for personal and professional growth.

  • Balancing work, life, and personal values.

  • The importance of setting intentional goals for life and career.

Quotes:

"Every organization has survival and security needs just like human beings." - Chris Green


"If you don't know where you're going, how do you know how you're going to get there?" - Chris Green


Connect with Chris:

Website: https://www.archandtower.com/


LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.


Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.


Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Feb 04, 202426:54
17. Innovation: Build, Buy or Partner with Ian Bergman

17. Innovation: Build, Buy or Partner with Ian Bergman

In a world where innovation is constantly redefining possibilities, how does one navigate the intricate balance between creativity, technology, and the human element to drive meaningful change?

In this captivating episode, host Natalie Born engages with Ian Bergman, a partner at Alchemist Accelerator, in a deep dive into the realms of innovation and corporate change. Bergman shares his unique journey, highlighting how a non-linear path led him to a profound understanding of innovation. From breaking his parents' computer networks as a child to his pivotal experiences at Microsoft and his current role in fostering startup innovation, Bergman's story is a testament to the power of embracing change. This episode offers invaluable insights into understanding customer-centric innovation, the importance of collaboration, and the dynamics of bringing groundbreaking ideas to fruition within large organizations.

Ian Bergman is a Partner at Alchemist Accelerator and head of AlchemistX, the company's corporate and government services division. As a self-described general-purpose nerd and corporate innovation agitator, Ian loves working at the intersection of emerging tech startups and the innovation needs of established organizations. Ian joined Alchemist from Microsoft, where, as head of the global Microsoft for Startups field organization, he was responsible for engaging and supporting startup ecosystems worldwide. Ian is also the host of the AlchemistX: Innovators Inside Podcast.

(00:00:00 - 00:04:59)The Unconventional Path to Innovation

  • Embracing non-obvious routes can lead to groundbreaking innovation.

  • Navigating career shifts provides diverse perspectives on technology and innovation.

  • Early experiences and interests can profoundly influence professional trajectories.

(00:05:00 - 00:09:59) Challenging the Status Quo at Microsoft

  • Adapting to changing market dynamics is crucial for innovation.

  • Customer-centric approaches are essential in product development.

  • Collaboration and vision alignment are key to realizing innovative ideas.

(00:10:00 - 00:14:59) Build, Buy, or Partner: Strategic Decision-Making

  • Assessing internal capabilities versus external opportunities is vital.

  • The 'not built here' mentality can hinder innovation.

  • Effective decision-making involves evaluating build, buy, or partner options.

(00:15:00 - 00:19:59) Embracing Challenges and Blockers in Innovation

  • Overcoming cultural and organizational hurdles is part of the innovation process.

  • Encouraging a culture that rewards risk-taking and learning from failures.

  • Navigating procurement and compliance challenges in introducing new ideas.

(00:20:00 - 00:23:59) Stakeholder Management: A Key to Successful Innovation

  • Building relationships and managing stakeholders is crucial for success.

  • Sharing credit and creating champions can amplify innovation efforts.

  • Transparency and communication are essential in driving organizational change.

Quotes:

  • "An innovator has to fall in love with the problem, not the solution." - Ian Bergman

  • "Confidentiality is worthless. 95% of the time. Tell people what you're doing and that's how you get credit." - Ian Bergman

 

Connect with Ian:

Website: https://www.alchemistaccelerator.com/corporate-innovators


LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.


Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co


These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.


Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Jan 21, 202424:38
16. Innovation in Customer Experience with Bill Mahoney

16. Innovation in Customer Experience with Bill Mahoney

How can organizations leverage customer experience as a strategic advantage in the dynamic SaaS landscape?


This episode features Bill Mahoney, the Chief Customer Officer at Comply, to unravel the intricate relationship between customer experience and business growth in the SaaS sector. He shares his expert insights on adapting customer success strategies to various business sizes, utilizing AI in customer service, and the evolution of community-driven customer engagement. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for leaders and professionals striving to align customer experience with organizational growth.


(00:00 - 05:00) Starting in Customer Experience 

(05:01 - 10:30) Customer Experience and Revenue Growth 

(10:31 - 00:15:16) Techniques in Customer-Based Growth 

(15:17 - 20:10) Innovative Customer Education 

(20:12 - 26:24) Closing Segment 


Key Quotes:


"Our goal is to help people get back to doing what they're doing for their jobs more quickly and efficiently." - Bill Mahoney


"Community is really about making sure that they know that they have all the tools and resources possible at their fingertips." - Bill Mahoney


Connect with Bill:


Website: COMPLY

LinkedIn: Bill Mahoney


LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.


Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co


These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.


Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!


Dec 31, 202326:24
15. Work Like a Boss with Nancy Lyons

15. Work Like a Boss with Nancy Lyons

How can we shift workplace culture to empower employees and unlock their full potential?

In this episode of the Innovation Meets Leadership podcast, Natalie interviews Nancy Lyons, CEO and founder of Clockwork Interactive, about her mission to "make work better." They discuss breaking down workplace hierarchies, overcoming learned helplessness and fear, and creating psychologically safe environments where all employees can thrive.

Nancy, CEO and co-founder of Clockwork, is an outspoken advocate for making work better - more inclusive, flexible, and adaptable. No one does great work if they're worried or can't bring their whole self to work. She learned this the hard way: by having terrible jobs and not fitting in, experiences many of us can relate to. But how do we create workspaces that actually work for humans, with all their nuances and intricacies? It's on all of us - leaders, employees, teams - to take responsibility for fostering cultures and spaces that work for people. And in doing so, we will make better products, experiences, and work lives.

Are you ready for a work revolution? Nancy is leading the charge!

Her first book was Interactive Project Management: Pixels, People, and Process, taking a human-centered approach to producing digital products. Her current book, Work Like a Boss: A Kick-in-the-Pants Guide to Finding (and Using) Your Power at Work, is the field guide everyone needs to adopt the actions, attitudes, and attributes that will make work better for all.

(00:02:50 - 00:05:30) Rethinking the Future of Work

The pandemic fundamentally changed people and work culture; we can't just "snap back" to how things were
There is too much focus on "where" people work versus "how" they work and live
We need to consider how technologies like AI can improve quality of life


(00:05:49 - 00:09:00) The Promise and Peril of AI

AI can make lives easier if it is used ethically, but poorly trained AI creates barriers
We must ensure that the data training AI represents true diversity
Organizations cannot recklessly adopt AI without proper governance and workflows in place


(00:09:46 - 00:15:30) Empowering the Workforce

The book is aimed at giving every employee a sense of agency and challenging learned helplessness
Hierarchy often displaces personal agency
It outlines specific fears that hold people back from thriving at work


Advice for Leadership (00:15:45 - 00:24:30)

Leaders should hire people smarter than themselves
Leaders need to listen more and understand different communication styles in their teams
Leaders must intentionally work to build psychologically safe spaces


"The way work works was decided during the Industrial Revolution when there was a big chasm between the people that owned companies and the employers and employees." - Nancy Lyons

"I employ people that are far beyond my abilities, much smarter than me." - Nancy Lyons

Connect with Nancy:
Website:
www.nancylyons.com/

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!
Dec 17, 202325:39
14. The Power of the Collective for Innovation with Eb Ikonne

14. The Power of the Collective for Innovation with Eb Ikonne

How can tapping into collective wisdom lead to superior outcomes than relying solely on individual insight?


In this episode, we speak with Ebenezer Ikonne, AVP of product and engineering at Cox Automotive. He shares his leadership journey, from starting as a software engineer to understanding the importance of values and mindset when transitioning into a leadership role. He talks about his experience creating an atmosphere where people can flourish and reach their full potential while allowing technology to solve business problems. He also discusses how companies should approach generative AI and chat GPT tools, as well as the tragedy of not allowing people to use their talents fully.


Tune in to hear Ebenezer's insights on how followers can make smarter choices about where they want to work, what they want to do, and why it's essential to experience ‘joy at work.’


[00:01 - 06:19] From Software Engineer to AVP of Product and Engineering 

[06:20 - 12:20] Leveraging the Power of the Collective to Maximize Human Potential

[12:21 - 18:15] The Impact of Generative AI and Chat GPT

[18:16 - 24:39] Closing Segment


Key Quotes:

"I think about the workplace as a place where people can and should flourish and thrive and not a place where I just go to work because I have to pay the bills." - Eb Ikonne


"The answer from the collective is, in many cases, better than the answer from the individual." - Eb Ikonne


"As human beings, we need to do things that we find fulfilling." - Eb Ikonne

Connect with Eb:

LinkedIn: Ebenezer Ikonne

Twitter: @eikonne

Springer Link: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-1-4842-7298-5


LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.


Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co


These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.


Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Dec 03, 202324:43
13. innovation in Education with Ashley Born

13. innovation in Education with Ashley Born

What works for one student won't necessarily work for another, so it's important to constantly innovate to meet their needs.


In this episode, Ashley Born explores the importance of resilience in career goals and how innovation can create effective change in education. She tackles the need to differentiate instruction for students and emphasizes how businesses need to be aware of opportunities created by change. With 10+ years in education and her experience as a coordinator for one of the largest charter schools in Georgia, Ashley offers a unique perspective on topics such as motivating teachers, building support systems, and creating engaging lessons.


Tune into this episode to hear more about how innovation meets leadership when it comes to making an impact in today's educational landscape!


[00:01 - 06:06] Using Innovation to Create Effective Change in Education

[06:07 - 11:56] Innovating for Effective Change

[11:57 - 18:28] The Need for Increased Interactivity and Engagement in Virtual Settings

[18:29 - 21:53] Closing Segment


Key Quotes:

"Using innovation in education is a must because our clients are never the same from year to year, and they change every single year." - Ashley Born


"If we don't innovate what we are doing in the classroom, if we're not engaging, if we're not becoming more interactive with our kids and meeting them where they are, then we've lost them." - Ashley Born


Connect with Ashley Born

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-born-33b083135 

Email: ashley.born82@gmail.com 



LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

 

Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co

 

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube


Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!


Nov 19, 202321:53
12. Navigation and Discovery with Cameron Singh

12. Navigation and Discovery with Cameron Singh

"Owning the room means you're not always the first to speak, but you're the first to listen." - Cameron Singh


In this episode, host Natalie Born interviews Cameron Singh, author of the book Navigation and Discovery. They discuss Cameron's background in the aviation industry, his journey to leadership roles at a young age, and his passion for helping others navigate their career paths and reach their potential. Cameron shares how he pursued his dream of working in aviation, starting in entry-level roles and working his way up. He talks about the importance of building relationships in the workplace and creating a culture where ideas can be voiced. Cameron also discusses key concepts from his book, like "owning the room" by listening first, as well as staying open and flexible as your passion and purpose evolve over time.


[00:02 - 00:07] Navigating a Career in Aviation 

  • How Cameron grew up passionate about aviation and got experience in entry-level roles

  • Why Cameron valued a workplace culture where he could voice ideas without fear

  • How Cameron tried new ideas and learned from failures along the way

  • The importance of building relationships and credibility before voicing suggestions


[00:10 - 00:15] Owning Your Voice as a Leader 

  • Owning the room is about listening first, then speaking with intent

  • The power of being the last to speak and synthesizing other perspectives

  • How Cameron transitioned into leadership coaching to help others find their voice


[00:15 - 00:20] Embracing the Journey of Self-Discovery 

  • Guiding those figuring out their passion and purpose

  • Being flexible as calling and fulfillment evolve over time

  • Not letting circumstances define your trajectory


Key Quote:

"Don't let your circumstances define the trajectory of your life" - Cameron Singh

 

Connect with Cameron

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameronsingh/

Check out his new book: https://www.cameronsingh.com/

 

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

 

Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co

 

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

 

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Nov 05, 202321:03
11. Innovation in AI & GPT-3 with Matt Swalley

11. Innovation in AI & GPT-3 with Matt Swalley

"Every company has to start to become an AI company right now. If you're not skilling up, you're going to seriously be left behind the people that are." - Matt Swalley

The rapid evolution of technology has made Artificial Intelligence a crucial player in transforming our wildest dreams into reality and pushing the boundaries of what we thought was possible. On today’s episode, Natalie engages in an enlightening conversation with Matt Swalley, the Co-Founder and CEO of, as they navigate through the groundbreaking innovations in AI. They discuss how AI is transforming content creation and pioneering AI-generated video ads in the advertising sector. Matt highlights the future of personalized experiences unlocked by neural reading and emphasizes the importance of businesses and individuals aligning with these advancements. 

As they explore the transformative and accelerated growth potential AI brings, they also shed light on the imperative of ethical utilization and responsible integration of AI technologies in various sectors. This episode is a revelation of the boundless possibilities and future scenarios AI is unfolding, urging us to reflect, adapt, and innovate responsibly.

Matt Swalley, Co-Founder and CBO of Omneky, drives success in AI marketing by optimizing personalized ad creatives through platforms powered by OpenAI's GPT-4, DALLE-2, and proprietary algorithms, enabling profound insights into design preferences and managing numerous AI-generated ads tailored for every customer profile to boost conversions.


[00:00 - 11:09] Revolutionizing Digital Advertising

[10:11 - 20:29] Adapt and Thrive: Navigating the Accelerating Landscape of AI


Key Quote:

“It always used to require a computer science degree to get really technical. Now a lot of the barriers are lower to entry with these new tools. Everyone can go use them and become more efficient.” – Matt Swalley


Connect with Matt

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-swalley-59249533

Check out the Omneky at: https://www.omneky.com/

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

 

Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co

 

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Oct 22, 202320:30
10. Founder Lessons Learned with Callie Murray

10. Founder Lessons Learned with Callie Murray

"Mentorship and just community around entrepreneurship is so vital... It just can't happen by yourself." - Callie Murray

From accidental entrepreneurship to mindful innovation, explore the journey of turning a quirky idea into a thriving business and the lessons learned along the way. In today’s episode, Callie Murray joins us to discuss her entrepreneurial journey, from founding The Big Fake Wedding to her current venture with Same Page HR. Callie shares her fascinating story of how she stumbled upon the idea of The Big Fake Wedding, an experiential marketing company that allowed engaged couples to see wedding vendors in action. She talks about the challenges and successes of building this unique business and how it eventually led her to the world of HR. Natalie and Callie delve into the lessons learned from both of Callie's ventures, including the importance of financial planning, the value of having a business partner, and the need for a supportive entrepreneurial community. They also discuss the significance of not tying one's identity solely to their business and the benefits of maintaining a strong work-life balance.

This episode is a great reminder that entrepreneurship involves many highs and lows. Having the right support system and mindset can make all the difference. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or navigating the challenges of business ownership, Callie's story offers valuable insights and inspiration.

Callie Murray spent her twenties building The Big Fake Wedding, a quirky experiential marketing company allowing brides-and-grooms-to-be to see wedding vendors in action. She sold The Big Fake Wedding in 2016 and has since helped dozens of other organizations with word-of-mouth marketing. She now does this as a partner in Same Page HR—a fractional HR company serving businesses with 1-100 employees. On a personal level, she loves starting side hustles with her husband and three daughters and is passionate about building community in her little town of Norcross, Ga through economic development and community engagement.

[00:00 - 13:35] A Journey of Entrepreneurship and Innovation

[13:36 - 27:46] Beyond the Business: Lessons on Innovating


Key Quote:

"You're more than your job, you're more than just the company you started or what you launched." - Callie Murray


Connect with Callie Murray

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/callie-murray-groundsweller/

Check out the Big Fake Wedding at: https://thebigfakewedding.com/


LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes. 

Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

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Oct 08, 202326:57
9. Leading Innovation with Empathy with Shane Mishler

9. Leading Innovation with Empathy with Shane Mishler

"Focus on the strengths of your partnerships, of your relationships, and then work to build this up. And while you're doing that, I promise you, you will find ways to be innovative.” - Shane Mishler


Navigating chaos, identifying unique opportunities, and igniting innovation: Shane Mishler, Chief Operating Officer of SD Tech, shares insights on transforming challenges into opportunities and creating a positive culture. In this episode, Shane reveals how his journey across diverse industries shaped his approach to leadership, allowing him to manage chaos and diverse personalities effectively. He discusses an innovative approach to identifying and addressing client pain points, exemplifying the power of empathetic listening. Shane also shares how he applies the same philosophy within his organization, fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration. He highlights the importance of leveraging relationships for growth and innovation, both in personal and professional contexts. Discover how to turn challenges into strengths, focus on partnerships, and ignite innovation within your sphere of influence

Shane Mishler is the Chief Operating Officer for SD Tech. Shane oversees the daily operations of the company. He partners with the owner to design and implement business strategies, plans, and processes. Shane is actively involved in all of the company’s investments, clients, strategic franchise partners, and expansion activities. During his tenure, the company’s revenue has more than tripled, and their active client list includes over 200 companies.


What you get from this episode:

  • [00:00 - 12:31] From Chaos to Symphony

  • [12:32 - 28:05] Beyond Words: Innovating by Listening

Key Quote:

"If we can be open and honest and transparent with the individuals around us and with ourselves, then we can identify what our strengths and our opportunities are significantly quicker." - Shane Mishler


Connect with Shane Mishler

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-mishler-23678327

Check out his webpage at: https://www.sd-tech.net/


LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

 

Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co

 

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review!

Let's go transform something!

Sep 24, 202321:41
8. Is Freelancing the Future of Work with Jason Montoya

8. Is Freelancing the Future of Work with Jason Montoya

“If you're going into freelancing as a way to escape something that you don't like with what you're doing, you may discover that that same thing is in freelancing or entrepreneurship, and it sometimes may even be more severe." - Jason Montoya

Have you ever wondered if freelancing is the future of work? Clearly, the landscape of employment is evolving, and the world of freelancing is opening up opportunities for independence and flexibility that were once unheard of. In today’s episode Natalie Born welcomes Jason Montoya, where they explore the intricacies of freelancing and its growing prominence. Jason, a freelance consultant, author, and podcast host, shares his insights on how freelancing has become a viable career path, especially in the wake of recent global changes. He delves into his journey, from transitioning out of a marketing agency to embracing the freelance lifestyle, all while managing a family of seven. Jason emphasizes the importance of being fully committed to freelancing, showcasing the achievements freelancers must accomplish for success. He unveils strategies for building a steady stream of paying clients, navigating the challenges of the freelancer-client relationship, and maintaining balance between work and personal life. 

Jason Scott Montoya grows small business owners, teams, and incomes around Atlanta, Georgia as a freelance consultant (since 2014). He's also the author of two books, one for aspiring freelancers (Path of the Freelancer) and another for striving small business owners (The Jump). On his blog and the Share Life podcast — JasonScottMontoya.com — Jason shares stories and systems to live better and work smarter. He also lives with his wonderful wife and five cherished children in Atlanta, Georgia (since 2005).

What you get from this episode:

  • Navigating the Freelance Journey

  • Exploring the Future of Work: Pros, Cons, and Collaborative Dynamics

Key Quote:

“Increasingly, the state of unemployment is self-employment.” Jason Montoya

Connect with Jason Montoya

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonscottmontoya/

Check out his webpage at: https://www.jasonscottmontoya.com/

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

 

Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co

 

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Sep 10, 202328:05
7. Becoming an Inventor with Eli Packouz

7. Becoming an Inventor with Eli Packouz

“The most basic skill you need is to be able to read. And I think if you can do that, if you are willing to put in the time and the work, you can learn almost anything.” – Eli Packouz

From ideation to realization, embark on a journey of ingenuity as Eli Packouz shares the challenges, triumphs, and the ultimate success of bringing Instafloss to life! Eli, a two-time founder, shares the story of his first company that was born from his brother's musician woes and led to a record-breaking Kickstarter campaign. He delves into the challenges of product development and the importance of scientific validation for their new invention, Instafloss. The device promises painless and effective flossing in just 10 seconds using water jets. Eli highlights the significance of listening to customer feedback and how they fine-tuned their messaging based on objections. The episode offers invaluable insights into crowdfunding strategies, funding decisions, and the crucial role of collaboration in building successful ventures.


Eli Packouz is a serial inventor and two-time founder. He started his first company, Singular Sound, with his brother in 2013; they have since launched eight blockbuster products. In 2017, he partnered with Dr. Ralf Raud and Dr. Ana Mascarenhas to create the first device that automatically flosses all your teeth in only 10 seconds — Instafloss. After five years of research and development, Instafloss is ready to change the world, one tooth at a time.

What you get in this episode:

• What I Learned from Founding Two Companies

• A Solution to a Customer’s Problem


"You have to believe in your ability to learn along the way. Anything you go into; you're going to be ignorant until you're done with it." – Eli Packouz


Connect with Eli Packouz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eli-packouz-390701149Check out Instafloss at: https://instafloss.com/LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.


Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process.


Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Aug 27, 202328:24
6. The Power of Publishing Books with Dave Sheets

6. The Power of Publishing Books with Dave Sheets

"You don't have to be a writer to be an author.” – Dave Sheets

 

In this episode of Innovation Meets Leadership, host Natalie Born and publishing industry expert Dave Sheets delve into the transformative power of publishing. With a captivating hook, they explore the question: "Why should someone publish a book?" Dave's extensive background in the industry sets the stage as he highlights the importance of credibility and the doors that open for authors through book publication. They debunk the misconception that one must be a skilled writer to become an author, emphasizing the availability of professional services that can help bring ideas to life. The conversation navigates the traditional publishing model versus self-publishing, shedding light on factors like control, timeframes, and investment. They stress the pivotal role of a platform in reaching and engaging with readers, expanding on the various channels that enable authors to share their message. As the discussion continues, the hidden benefits of becoming an author come to light, with a focus on the sense of community among authors who support one another's journey. Natalie and Dave underline the impact of self-promotion, sharing strategies to authentically promote one's work without feeling like self-promotion.

Dave Sheets has spent more than 25 years in the publishing industry working with many of the top book publishers, distributors, and printers in the industry. He currently owns a publishing services company primarily working with independent authors

The Publishing Journey

·       The Power of Books: Success and Community

 

Key Quotes:

"Publishing a book it's not about having an ego. The difference is about getting your message out. If you think your message is important, you have to talk about it.” – Dave Sheets

 

Connect with Dave

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidsheets

Check out Believers Book Services at https://believersbookservices.com/

 

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their business through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.


Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co

 

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Aug 13, 202323:34
5. Your Leadership Toolbox with Clint Ladine

5. Your Leadership Toolbox with Clint Ladine

" A realistic outlook will keep you moving toward your desired future. A limiting belief will prevent you from moving forward.” – Dr. Clint Ladine

In this episode of Innovation Meets Leadership, host Natalie Born engages in a captivating conversation with Dr. Clint Ladine, a leadership success coach and former professional basketball player. They explore the power of coaching, emphasizing the transformative impact of active listening and reframing limiting beliefs. Dr. Ladine highlights the importance of empowering others and creating a culture of trust to unlock leadership potential. Dr. Ladine delves into the significance of belief systems, distinguishing between a realistic outlook and limiting beliefs. He underscores the lifelong journey of coaching and the value of having a coach to navigate professional challenges and achieve desired goals. Throughout the episode, Natalie and Dr. Ladine discuss the transformative power of coaching, the art of active listening, overcoming limiting beliefs, unlocking potential, and the impact on organizational success. 

Dr. Clint Ladine, a former basketball player turned leadership coach, is on a mission to empower leaders through effective coaching. He distinguishes between bad and good coaches, emphasizing unlocking potential and nurturing abilities. His book, "Power Coaching," is essential for optimizing leadership skills. As the owner of Successfully Coaching, he helps leaders overcome obstacles for success. Featured on Fox, CBS, ABC, and NBC, Dr. Ladine's expertise is widely recognized. Inspired by his transformative coaching experience, he pursued a doctoral program, becoming a sought-after writer, author, and speaker on Leadership Coaching.

Key Takeaways:

  • Unleashing your Leadership Potential

  • Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Cultivating Growth

Key Quote:

"When you think about it, in your life, very few times have you had somebody just listen without giving advice. Try asking questions and see people light up, saying, 'Nobody's ever asked me that before. What a great question...' "– Dr. Clint Ladine

Connect with Dr. Clint Ladine

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clintladine

Check out Successfully Coaching at https://www.successfullycoaching.com/

 

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their business through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

 

Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co

 

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Jul 30, 202321:30
4. The Future of Work is Remote with Alex Svinov

4. The Future of Work is Remote with Alex Svinov

“Covid has taught me that remote workers can actually deliver great results.” - Alex Svinov

In this episode, we explore the founding story of Insquad – a platform that helps to build remote teams. Alex Spinoff discusses how remote work can help companies attract talent, increase productivity, and conserve resources. He also highlights the importance of understanding and respecting cultural norms when working with colleagues in other countries. Tune in to discover the misconceptions regarding remote work and how best to hire for remote positions.

Alex is the CEO and Co-founder of Insquad, the platform to build remote development teams. He believes that the future of work is in remote teams – and this notion will radically change the world as it will bring opportunity and talent closer to each other. 

Key Takeaways:

  • Exploring the Pros and Cons of Remote Work

  • Unlocking the Power of Remote Work

  • Reimagining the Way We Think About Remote Work

Key Quotes:

“When you have talents that you could pick and choose from anywhere and have your team match exactly what the needs of the team are, then you can build a team that is so much more powerful than when you choose from only the guys that are available here at the office.” - Alex Svinov

“The more standardized processes you have, the more power you have to leverage the opportunities of remote work.” - Alex Svinov

Connect with Alex

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-svinov/ 

Website: https://insquad.com/ 

 

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

 

Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co

 

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Jul 16, 202322:19
3. Is Your Organization Innovative? with Scott Ritzheimer

3. Is Your Organization Innovative? with Scott Ritzheimer

"Fund what matters and fund it well. Innovation is not just a buzzword; it's an investment in the future of your company.” – Scott Ritzheimer

 

In this episode of Innovation Meets Leadership, host Natalie Born dives deep into the world of scaling businesses and the crucial role of innovation. Joined by Scott Ritzheimer, CEO of Scale Architects, they explore the power of finding a profitable, sustainable market, the delicate balance between systematization and creativity, and the importance of allocating resources for innovation. With insightful discussions on fostering a culture of innovation and the significance of embracing failure, this episode provides valuable insights for leaders aiming to drive strategy that demands innovation action.

 

Scott Ritzheimer is the Founder and CEO of Scale Architects. He has helped start nearly 20,000 new businesses and nonprofits and with his business partner started led their multimillion-dollar business through an exceptional and extended growth phase (over 10 years of double-digit growth) all before he turned 35. He founded Scale Architects to help businesses across the country identify the right growth strategies and find the right guides to get them on the fast-track to Predictable Success and stay there as long as possible.

 

Key Takeaways:

  • Cultivating an Innovative Culture
  • Navigating Growth and Success

 

Key Quotes:

"The real irony of predictable success is that it is inherently unpredictable. Embrace the tension between risk-taking and risk mitigation to create consistent success.” – Scott Ritzheimer

 

Connect with Scott

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottritzheimer/

Check out Scale Architects at https://www.scalearchitects.com/

 

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.


Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co

 

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

 

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Jul 02, 202326:14
2. Innovation in Telemedicine with Matt McBride

2. Innovation in Telemedicine with Matt McBride

"Healthcare seemed like a place where we could really make an impact because I think that was part of the goal – to have purpose to what we were doing.” – Matt McBride


In this episode of Innovation Meets Leadership, host Natalie Born talks with Matt McBride, the CEO and Co-founder of MEND, an enterprise patient engagement telehealth platform designed to help healthcare organizations scale their practice and care for more patients. McBride shares how his team saw an opportunity to revolutionize healthcare delivery by reshaping patient engagement through technology. They realized that healthcare was still stagnant in phone calls, paper forms, and waiting times, while other industries were being consumed by digital mobile experiences. Thus, they set out to change this and help healthcare organizations reshape how they engage with patients through technology. The episode also discusses the grounding principles of MEND, which include prioritizing customer service and patient convenience, as well as the importance of enabling doctors with technology.


Matt McBride is the CEO and Co-Founder of Mend — an enterprise-grade patient engagement and telehealth platform designed to help healthcare organizations scale their practice and care for more patients. An experienced entrepreneur, he co-founded MEND in 2015 with his three best friends to revolutionize healthcare delivery.

Key Takeaways:

  • Technology at the Service of The Patient

  • Exploring the Horizon of Healthcare Innovation

Key Quotes:

"Healthcare has to account for everyone because everyone will be a patient at some point in their lives.” – Matt McBride


Connect with Matt

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewmcbride

Check out MEND at https://mend.com/


LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes. 


Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co


These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Jun 18, 202322:23
1. Innovation through Automation with Andrew Cohen

1. Innovation through Automation with Andrew Cohen

"Automation is not just automation just for automation's sake. Automation has to be meaningful." – Andrew Cohen

In this episode of Innovation Meets Leadership, host Natalie Born talks with Andrew Cohen, the CEO and Managing Partner of Evoke, an award-winning digital transformation company specializing in modern workplace solutions. Andrew discusses how to help small businesses scale through automation and streamlining processes. They explore the benefits of reducing application stacks, connecting technologies, and providing real-time data, as well as the importance of a unified strategy and roadmap when implementing automation in small business environments. Andrew details his career journey from being an athlete to becoming a technology entrepreneur, highlighting the strategic vision he brings to the table. They also discuss how Netsurit offers a range of services to help companies automate traditionally manual efforts such as accounts payable and receivable, HR onboarding, and sales, track their success for accurate ROI guarantees, and ensure executive buy-in for digital transformation initiatives.

Since 1997, Andrew Cohen has been the CEO and Managing Partner at EVOKE, an award-winning Digital Transformation company that partners with their clients to build modern workplace solutions for nearly every common organizational and technological challenge imaginable. In 2019, Andrew launched the EVOKE Engage division, which focuses on automation and streamlining processes. He joined Netsurit at the beginning of 2022, and this now allows Netsurit to provide their clients with guidance and solutions on using technology to maximize ROI.

Key Takeaways

  • Transformation and Automation

  • Unlocking Innovation Through Data and Collaboration

Key Quotes:

"Automation has to connect these systems together to bring those real-time insights and outcomes for these companies as they start driving their business decisions going forward.” – Andrew Cohen


Connect with Andrew

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-cohen-91945a4

Check out Netsurit Innovate at https://netsurit.com/en-za/netsurit-innovate/


LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.


Check Natalie's new book: SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation available now at setitonfire.co


These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Jun 04, 202325:07
36. Unlock Your Highest Potential with Randi Roberts

36. Unlock Your Highest Potential with Randi Roberts

"It's possible to achieve both fulfilling career and happy life, and it's what I want for people. So, go for it. You deserve it." – Randi Roberts

In this podcast episode, Innovation Meets Leadership host Natalie Born interviews executive and career life coach Randi Roberts. Randi shares her journey from corporate to coaching, emphasizing the importance of introspection and self-awareness in personal development. The conversation centers on the benefits of coaching in navigating career challenges and personal growth, with both speakers sharing personal experiences. You will gain insights into using an eight-pillar tool for self-assessment and the importance of culture, feedback, and vulnerability in personal development. The episode concludes by Randi encouraging you to seek formal and informal coaching relationships to aid their growth and achieve career satisfaction.

Randi Roberts, MBA, PCC, is an Executive and Career-Life Coach, President of Corlin Roberts Coaching, LLC, and founder of the Fulfilling Career, Happy Life community. With 30+ years of successful experience as a Pharmaceutical Executive and two businesses of her own, Randi helps people achieve their career goals while exploring new possibilities that truly fit their framework. She skillfully combines business leadership experience with exceptional coaching skills.

Key Takeaways 

  • Unlock Your Highest Potential

  • Navigating Career Changes and Finding Fulfillment

  • The Importance of Personal Values 

Key Quotes:

"Look at experiences as an opportunity to learn and grow. Mine them for all the knowledge you can, but always ask yourself: What can I do differently next time? How can I handle this situation in a bigger, better, and more productive way?” – Randi Roberts

Connect with Randi

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randirobertscrc

Check out Randi Roberts Coaching at https://www.corlinroberts.net/


Natalie’s new book is out! GET SET IT ON FIRE - THE ART OF INNOVATION today! Head over to https://setitonfire.co/ to get your copy. 


LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

May 21, 202326:47
35. User Experience Design with Satyam Kantamneni

35. User Experience Design with Satyam Kantamneni

"Experience transformation is the next frontier of digital transformation for companies." – Satyam Kantamneni

In this podcast episode, Innovation Meets Leadership host Natalie Born talks to Satyam Kantamneni, Chief Experience Officer of UX Reactor. He joins us to discuss the importance of being user-centric in business. Satyam emphasizes understanding user pain points and suggests techniques like empathy maps, persona exercises, and experience roadmaps to achieve this. He explains the role of a Chief Experience Officer and how it can improve overall user experience. The guests also discuss the importance of experience transformation and how companies can focus on user-centered practices to innovate and solve current problems.

Satyam is the Chief Experience Officer at UXReactor. In less than 7 years, UXReactor has become the fastest-growing specialized experience design firm in the US, with a team of 50+ employees spread over three continents. Satyam (_ is passionate about user-centered innovation, and he has recently released a book, User Experience Design: A Practical Playbook to Fuel Business Growth. 

  • The Importance of User-Centered Design

  • The Paradox of Digital Transformation

Key Quotes:

"Every time your user should feel that somebody thought about me and solved a problem, and that's magic. And any company that can ship magic on a consistent basis is only going to win.” – Satyam Kantamneni.

Connect with Satyam

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kantamneni

Check out UXReactor at https://uxreactor.com/


Natalie’s new book is out! GET SET IT ON FIRE - THE ART OF INNOVATION today! Head over to https://setitonfire.co/ to get your copy. 


LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.


These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube


Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review.  Let's go transform something!

May 07, 202327:56
34. The Art and Science of Facilitation with Marsha Acker

34. The Art and Science of Facilitation with Marsha Acker

"Facilitation is a key leadership skill." – Marsha Acker

In this podcast episode, Innovation Meets Leadership host Natalie Born talks to Marsha Acker, a skilled facilitator can identify hidden dynamics in conversations and guide participants towards actionable outcomes. Marsha emphasizes that following good facilitation principles in meetings is crucial for success, even without a facilitator present, to avoid wasted time, lack of clarity, and missed opportunities. The conversation centers around the cost of repeated and unproductive meetings in organizations, and the speakers identify warning signs of ineffective meetings, such as impulsive eye rolls and unclear decisions. Key skills for effective facilitation are neutrality, intentional planning, clear design, engaging all voices, and knowing when to provide input. Facilitation is a skill that takes practice and maturity, and staying present and curious when things get difficult is key to successful meetings. 


Marsha Acker is an executive & leadership team coach, author, speaker, facilitator, and the host of Defining Moments of Leadership Podcast. She is the author of The Art and Science of Facilitation: How to Lead Effective Collaboration with Agile Teams and Build Your Model for Leading Change, coming in early 2023. Marsha is the founder and CEO of TeamCatapult, a respected and sought-after leadership development firm that equips leaders, at all levels, to facilitate and lead sustainable behavioral change.

Key Highlights:

  • The Power of Facilitation 

  • The Importance of Effective Facilitation in Meetings 

  • Mastering the Art of Facilitation 

Key Quotes:

"As a facilitator, the beauty is in standing back, looking at the lay of the land, and cutting right to the heart of what we're really trying to say. It's about bringing focus to the discussion and preventing things from going off in different directions." – Marsha Acker.

Connect with Marsha

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marsha-acker-3486a72

Defining Moments of Leadership Podcast: https://teamcatapult.com/podcast/

 

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.


These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube


Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

Apr 23, 202326:45
33. Peace over Performance for Innovation with Amy Balog

33. Peace over Performance for Innovation with Amy Balog

"Our peace self in us knows that we are always loved, always learning. It's always a constant". – Amy Balog

Looking to unlock your true potential as an innovator or leader? In this podcast episode, Innovation Meets Leadership host Natalie Born talks to Amy Balog about the concept of 'peace over performance': how inner peace can be the catalyst for true and lasting success. Amy explains how this paradigm shift can help innovators and leaders alike by establishing a secure self-identity and understanding that failure isn't a reflection of one's worth. Through this conversation, you will gain insights into creating a feedback loop to recognize and manage risk, as well as learn practical tips on being open to learning, owning up to mistakes, and telling a powerful story. With these tools, you can harness your power and use it for innovation.

Amy Balog is a senior executive coach, facilitator, writer, and speaker. With 15 years of coaching experience, she helps global leaders discover their peaceful selves and grounding identities to achieve peak performance. Amy challenges the paradigm that peace and performance are mutually exclusive and instead advocates for their powerful duet. She developed the Peace Over Performance journey to combat self-limiting narratives and self-rejection in leaders.

Key Highlights:

  • Peace Over Performance and Fueling Innovation

  • Acknowledging the Learning Curve and Admitting Risks 

  • Feedback Loops and The Imposter Syndrome.

Key Quotes:

"Peace is the true fuel to performance." – Amy Balog.

Connect with Amy

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amybalog

 

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

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Apr 09, 202328:31
32. Outcome Based Innovation with Stefan Debois

32. Outcome Based Innovation with Stefan Debois

“It's not only listening to the customer. It's really taking action, being proactive to talk to your customers, inviting them for specific interviews where the agenda is really to talk about their needs. That is really important for innovation”. – Stefan Debois


In this episode of the podcast, Innovation Meets Leadership host Natalie Born invites Stefan Debois, the founder, and CEO of Pointer Pro, an assessment software platform that helps professional services companies automate their advisory processes. Together, they discuss how to optimize consulting strategies, leverage skills and outsource tasks to subcontractors, democratize knowledge and access free information on the internet, utilize an advice engine to provide relevant recommendations to clients and use a structured methodology like Jobs to be Done to understand customer needs and translate them into successful products or services. Listeners will gain insight on how to efficiently charge for outcomes instead of time in order to incentivize efficiency improvements and encourage innovation from consultants. Tune in to this engaging conversation between two real innovators as they discuss the importance of listening to customers, taking action, and asking specific questions.

 

Stefan Debois is the founder and CEO of Pointerpro, an assessment software platform that helps professional services companies to automate their advisory processes. Stefan is passionate about the use of technology to build professional relationships with people, at scale.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Outcome-Based Innovation

  • The Importance of Customer Feedback in Innovation

  • The Value of Structured Conversations

 

Key Quotes:

"Don't charge for time, charge for value.” – Stefan Debois

 

Connect with Stefan

LinkedIn: https://be.linkedin.com/in/stefandebois

Twitter: https://twitter.com/sde77

 

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

 

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

 

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Mar 26, 202323:03
31. Innovation in Ecom with Matteo Grassi

31. Innovation in Ecom with Matteo Grassi

"Don't take goal setting in your life too seriously. Goals are guideposts along the journey.” – Matteo Grassi

In this episode of the podcast, Innovation Meets Leadership host Natalie Born interviews Mateo Grassi, co-founder and CEO of the funded startup Popup. Through his remarkable journey from street performer to successful entrepreneur, Mateo shares his experience bootstrapping a business until it was ready for funding, as well as the difficulties and opportunities that come with being an entrepreneur. They discuss Mateo’s experience of scaling an e-commerce store from zero to 4 million in two weeks, only to have all profits lost due to disputes and fines from credit card providers. Additionally, they compare the pre-tech bubble landscape to today's remote work opportunities which have opened up possibilities of living and working abroad without language barriers. Finally, they speak about the importance of self-regulation when it comes to technology and social media use, setting boundaries for oneself when it comes to media consumption and finding one’s big “why” - a goal that can never be achieved - in order to stay motivated throughout life.

Matteo Grassi is co-founder of Popup, a no code eCommerce platform for the next generation, has also founded 7 direct-to-consumer brands, an NGO/DAO, and an anonymous support group for founders. Prior to this, they were a professional break-dancer and circus performer who also produced and performed music. Matteo now creates documentaries, interviews, and shows for YouTube. Known to share either a lame joke or intriguing trivia upon meeting in person.

Key Highlights

  • Innovating in E-Commerce
  • A Journey of Exploration, Not Destination
  • Breaking the News Cycle

Key Quotes:

"People should embark in a journey of being an entrepreneur the same way you embark in a journey where like in an adventure. And you don't go in an adventure because you necessarily want to reach a destination. You go in an adventure because you love the adventure.” – Matteo Grassi

“Sometimes you have to be pushed to the limits to realize that maybe a problem was small before it got really, really big. But then once you solve it, you solve it." – Matteo Grassi

Connect with Matteo

LinkedIn: https://ie.linkedin.com/in/matteowastaken

Twitter: https://twitter.com/matteowastaken

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

Mar 12, 202327:16
30. Innovation Accounting with Esther Gons

30. Innovation Accounting with Esther Gons

“Look for the impact that you want to have, and then prioritize based on impact rather than market.” – Esther Gons

In this episode, the founder and CEO of GroundControl, Esther Gons discusses how innovation accounting can help organizations measure success when launching high-risk projects. She explore the need to start multiple ventures in order to predict success, and the importance of implementing formalized processes for innovation in order for an organization to create a culture of innovation. Esther also provides insight into how to measure performance metrics before beginning any project, fail fast and use learnings from failed experiments to inform future projects, and celebrate those who have saved the company money.

Esther Gons is the CEO and founder of GroundControl, an innovation software company that helps corporate startup teams develop new business models. The company has clients such as Euler Hermes, DHL, and ABN Amro. Gons is a speaker on corporate innovation, innovation accounting, and startups, and was named to Inside Outside's 2022 Watchlist: Women in Innovation.

Main Highlights:

  • Unpacking the Layers of Innovation Accounting
  • Examining Processes, Culture, and Habits to Achieve Success
  • Mitigating Risk with a Systematic Approach

Key Quotes:

" To do innovation within an organization, you need multiple teams trying to validate multiple ideas.

You need to understand if your teams are doing well and if they're moving forward.” – Esther Gons

“Look at the impact you want to make, because otherwise you're never gone make that change." – Esther Gons

Connect with Esther

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esthergons/

Website: https://estheremmelygons.nl/

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube

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Let’s go transform something!

Feb 26, 202321:47
29. The First 100 days with Marc Reifenrath

29. The First 100 days with Marc Reifenrath

“A lot of skillsets you can teach, but the culture you can't.” - Marc Reifenrath

Is a company’s culture critical to achieving and maintaining success? In this episode, the CEO of Spinutech, Marc Reifenrath encourages leaders to invest more time in building culture and core values for better retention and growth. He breaks down key strategies for onboarding new team members, creating an environment of trust, and understanding the importance of cultural alignment between clients and employees. Tune in now to learn how culture can be used to hire and retain top talent!

Marc has seen Spinutech grow from a college start-up to one of the premier full-service digital marketing agencies in the country. He would be the first to tell you that Spinutech would not be what it is today without a team of people who are as invested in each other’s growth and success as they are in delivering the best for their clients.

Main Highlights:

  • 10 Years of Zero Turnover
  • How Spinutech's First 100 Days Shape Employee and Organization Experiences
  • How Core Values Helped build a Successful Business

Key Quotes:

"You just gotta capitalize on every learning opportunity, whether it came from a great situation or a bad situation." - Marc Reifenrath

"Job descriptions aren't restrictions.." - Marc Reifenrath

Connect with Marc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcreifenrath/

Website: https://www.spinutech.com/

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram and Facebook

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Feb 12, 202322:25
28. The Cure for Not Invented Here Syndrome with Sohail Abbasi

28. The Cure for Not Invented Here Syndrome with Sohail Abbasi

Jan 29, 202323:28
27. What Kills Innovation with Natalie & Aaron Born

27. What Kills Innovation with Natalie & Aaron Born

“Think about some people you can pull alongside you to help you be a zero gravity thinker, to think outside the box and to look differently at problems that you're trying to solve.” - Natalie Born

What is holding back explosive growth and breakthrough ideas? In this episode, Natalie and Aaron Born disclose the importance of innovation and how to foster it in an organization. They break down the 3 principles that kill innovation and explain how innovation looks different for everyone. Natalie talks about how she enjoys doing podcasts, her experiences with podcasting, and some of their favorite conversations. Listen and enjoy!

Aaron is a father of two daughters, the husband to  Natalie, and the owner of a runaway circus dog named Bear. They currently live in Sugar Hill, Georgia. When he is not with his family, he is the Lead Pastor of House Churches for Victory Church, a multi-site church made up of about 20,000 households from 142 people groups based in the Metropolitan area of Atlanta, Georgia.

Main Highlights:

  • How Psychological Safety Kills Innovation
  • 3 Principles of Killing Innovation
  • Innovation Looks Different for Every Organization
  • The Importance of Zero Gravity Thinkers in Innovation

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources or click "Episode Website" below.

Connect with Natalie

Website: https://innovationmeetsleadership.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalieborn

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/innovationmeetsleadership/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/innovationmeetsleadership

Connect with Aaron

Website: https://victoryatl.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-david-born-4a66b7bb/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/born_aaron

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

Jan 15, 202329:27
26. Short Cuts with Bob Hasson

26. Short Cuts with Bob Hasson

“Self-ownership of issues or mistakes is huge because that's where that's where I learn and I know that's where other people learn.” - Bob Hasson

Are you ready to gain courage and clarity on how to achieve the life you dream of? In this episode, Bob Hasson stresses the importance of having a strong character be seen as an asset and a value to your company during difficult times. He discusses how a culture of love should not coexist with fear, and encourages you to work for companies where innovation is celebrated and new ideas are embraced. Let’s dive in!

Bob Hasson is a businessman, Author, Consultant, and Podcaster. He is both the Founder and CEO of HPCI, a painting subcontractor, which he founded in 1978. For over thirty years, he has been active as a consultant and board member for churches, ministries, nonprofits, and school boards.

Main Takeaways:

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources.

Connect with Bob

Website: https://bobhasson.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-hasson-5a3693156/

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

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Jan 01, 202325:06
25. Innovation and Hype 2.0 with Michael F. Schein

25. Innovation and Hype 2.0 with Michael F. Schein

“Just because an idea's not original doesn't mean it's not effective.” - Michael F. Schein

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, we are catching up with Micahel F. Schein.

Michael is the founder and president of MicroFame Media, a company that specializes in making consultants and coaches famous in their fields. Some of his clients have included eBay, Magento, The Medici Group, University of Pennsylvania, Gordon College, University of California Irvine, United Methodist Publishing House, Ricoh, LinkedIn, and Citrix. His writing has appeared in Fortune, Forbes, Inc., Psychology Today, and Huffington Post, and he is a speaker for international audiences spanning from the northeastern United States to the southeastern coast of China. His book The Hype Handbook: 12 Indispensable Success Secrets From the World’s Greatest Propagandists, Self-Promoters, Cult Leaders, Mischief Makers, and Boundary Breakers, published by McGraw Hill, appears where books are sold.

[00:16] Building a Secret Society

  • Michael explains why the word hype has had negative connotations over time
  • Why Secret Society:
  • The notion that hype artists are incredibly effective at making it look like all of their success comes from the bottom up but actually rely on individuals doing work below the surface
  • Why the point of the secrecy is the secrecy
  • Why it’s the exclusivity that makes it special and fun

[13:31] Applying The Idea of a Secret Society to Our Business

  • How can you bring ritual and exclusivity into what you're doing
  • Why we should look to places outside your industry
  • Why we should have a very experimental mindset

[22:50] What is Core to Innovation

  • Emphasizing what you're calling the innovation component
  • Why everything is innovation
  • How to be comfortable with innovation

[25:23] Closing Segment

  • Final thoughts from Michael
  • Connect with Michael!

Key Quotes:

“If you create something that people would do anyway because it's an adventure. Business gets done as a side effect.” - Michael F. Schein

“So the trick is to base your stuff on psychological principles that work, but even more importantly, conduct very small experiments that just give you the data you need to know if you should go bigger and kill the losers very, very quickly.” - Michael F. Schein

Connect with Michael

Website: https://www.hypereads.com/list

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelfrancisschein/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MichaelSchein1

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.schein.7

Dec 11, 202227:31
24. Change Marketing and Innovation with Kathya Acuña

24. Change Marketing and Innovation with Kathya Acuña

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, Kathya Acuña of Change Strategy at LOCAL focuses on the human aspect of change. She discusses the importance of communication and bringing people along in the process. By effectively engaging employees, organizations can have faster adoption and establish a healthy work culture.

Kathya is the Director of Change Strategy at LOCAL, a Change Marketing™ consultancy helping some of the world's best companies make change stick by treating their employees as an audience worth winning. She is a business transformation consultant passionate about human-centered storytelling. Over the past 12 years, Kathya has worked in various roles, from helping non-profits define their vision, mission, and values to launching a brewery in Bogota, Colombia.

Main Takeaways:

  • A Human-Centered Approach to Change
  • Co-Creating Change
  • Handling Dissension
  • Success Ties Back to Adoption
  • Avoiding Learned Helplessness

Key Quotes:

“When it comes to change, everything comes back down to adoption, which comes back down to people. It's not so much about managing change as it is about marketing change and making sure that the change is very much human-centered.” - Kathya Acuña

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources or click "Episode Website" below.

Connect with Kathya

Website: https://www.localindustries.com/, https://changemarketinguniversity.teachable.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathyaacuna

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

Nov 27, 202227:13
23. Innovation in Start-ups with Shea Gerhardt

23. Innovation in Start-ups with Shea Gerhardt

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, we welcome Shea Gerhardt. Shea talks about how to develop an effective product that could compete with the bigger players in the market. She reiterates the importance of focusing on the customer needs and being a solution to a problem and that product development never stops.

Shea Gerhardt is the Founder and CEO of Buderflys Technologies, Inc. Prior to Buderflys Tech, Inc – she spent nearly two decades in executive roles in the mobile, gaming, and music industries. Having worked with major music labels, including Universal, Sony, EMI, and Warner Bros., as well as some of the world’s largest mobile wireless companies, including VZW, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Vodafone, Shea built her career on the ability to develop a clear and focused path to cutting through the noise in crowded and stale industries and growing business where user-centric products are king.

Main Takeaways:

  • A Brilliant Product Built Out of Need
  • It’s Not About What You Want, It’s About What the Customer Wants
  • Designing A Future-Ready Product

Key Quotes:

“I also had to find people who knew what they were doing. That took a long time. But I have an incredible team that is so much smarter than I am in that regard. And they are on this journey with me.” - Shea Gerhardt

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources.

Connect with Shea

Website: https://buderflys.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shea-gerhardt-21a4b45
Twitter: @buderflys

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

Nov 13, 202223:41
22. The Golden Rule of Collaboration with Helene Cahen

22. The Golden Rule of Collaboration with Helene Cahen

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, Helene Cahen talks about innovation and collaboration in organizations. She explains how fear of failure can prevent us from innovating and why it’s important to create a culture that allows for risk-taking and creativity. She also shares insights on design thinking principles and ideation, and how teams can collaborate more effectively by putting clear processes in place and being open to each other’s opinions and preferences.

Born and raised in Paris, France, Helene graduated with a business degree from the elite Sciences-Po Paris and earned a Master of Sciences degree in Creativity and Change Leadership from the State University of New York. she is an Innovation Consultant, Trainer, Facilitator, Coach, and Speaker with over 20 years of experience helping companies navigate innovation challenges. She guides Fortune 500, small businesses, and non-profits to have a better understanding of innovation and innovation processes, create new products/services, build effective teams, and support a user-centered culture. Prior to founding her consulting practice, Strategic Insights, Helene held executive and management positions in advertising, marketing research, HR, finance, and sales as well as VP of Innovation for a start-up. Most recently, she was a TedX Talk speaker at TedX Seattle and has been a speaker on Design Thinking and Creativity at various conferences including the American Creativity Association, Creative Problem Solving Institute (CPSI), Creativity Expert Exchange (CEE), and the Design Thinking Unconference.

Main Takeaways:

  • Cultivating A Culture of Innovation
  • Design Thinking and Creative Problem Solving
  • Team Improv and Co-Creation

Key Quote:

“What I'm encouraging is actually to see the value in people thinking differently and appreciating that. See others for who they are and embrace the differences in thinking.”  - Helene Cahen

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources or click "Episode Website" below.

Connect with Helene

Website: https://www.strategicinsights.biz/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/strategicinsights

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

Oct 30, 202224:54
21. Measure, Execute & Win with Alex Castro

21. Measure, Execute & Win with Alex Castro

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, we welcome Alex Castro of M Corp. He discusses how to identify and address the root causes of failed strategic initiatives to make future attempts at execution more successful. He also shares his thoughts on recognizing and overcoming cognitive bias, utilizing data in decision-making, and being adaptive to change as an organization.

Alex Castro is an aligner of execution to strategy for digital transformation & innovation, best-selling author, and creator/founder of ReM Score™ Alex believes that the gap between ideas (strategy) and execution is a persistent problem that is sidelining too many high potential digital transformation and innovation growth opportunities.

Main Takeaways:

  • Bridging the Gap Between Ideas and Execution
  • Employees Want to Be Part of the Winning Team
  • Strategies for Execution Success
  • Avoiding Rigged Decision-Making

Key Quote:

“There's a hair's difference between the top team in a league and the bottom team. And it's really how well can they put the execution component together, right? You can have the best playbook in the world but if you don't know how to really tune that play in, it's kind of useless.” - Alex Castro

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources or click "Episode Website" below.

Connect with Alex

Website: https://www.alexcastro.io/, https://the-mcorp.com/

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

Oct 16, 202225:04
20. Innovation in Manufacturing with Sunny Han

20. Innovation in Manufacturing with Sunny Han

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, Sunny Han discusses Fulcrum’s mission to transform the manufacturing industry with technology. He talks about how outdated software and processes can hinder an organization's ability to scale. However, he reminds us that newer doesn’t always mean better and there is always value to the mundane. He also digs deep into why companies should constantly evaluate their values and why they should never lose sight of their customer’s needs.

Sunny Han is the CEO and Founder of Fulcrum, a manufacturing ERP platform dedicated to helping manufacturers build a better future. He led Fulcrum to raise a $3.1M seed round of venture capital in 2020. Sunny is dedicated to delivering a connected future where frictionless manufacturing production and supply chains lead to faster and better product innovations.

Main Takeaways:

  • An Empathetic Leader
  • The Future of Manufacturing
  • Evolving Values

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources or click "Episode Website" below.

“I think every one of our mistakes from a product standpoint was because we didn't understand some of the simple stuff that is antiquated. If we don't replicate it and do a better job of that, the boring stuff that just works, they actually lose something. That boring stuff actually has some value.”  - Sunny Han

Connect with Sunny

Website:https://fulcrumpro.com/

Email: sunny@fulcrumpro.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yusunnyhan

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

Oct 02, 202224:36
19. From Engineer to Founder with Bobby Matson

19. From Engineer to Founder with Bobby Matson

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, Payitoff Founder and CEO Bobby Matson talks about turning a problem into a business possibility. Frustrated by his own student loans, he founded a debt infrastructure company to bring more transparency to the repayment process. He details how to dig deep into a personal pain point and discover the demand for a solution on a broader scale. Bobby also gives advice to people who are looking to begin their startup journey.

University of Michigan grad obsessed with building better infrastructure for all borrowers: Bobby led engineering teams at Carbon Five, where he built technology for Groupon, Fandango, and Stitchfix and shipped software to millions of users. After managing six-figure student debt in his own life, he's working on Payitoff to create better outcomes for every borrower.

Main Takeaways:

● All Borrowers Want Clarity

● Driven by Customer Demand

● Success Breeds Passion

● Nailing Your Niche

Key Takeaways:

“There are a lot of moments in company building where you'll say to yourself, am I doing the right thing? Are we working on the right thing? Knowing the personal need that you had, in the beginning, is the anchor that helps you answer that question.” - Bobby Matson

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources or click "Episode Website" below.

Connect with Bobby

Website: https://payitoff.io/

Email: bobby@payitoff.io

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bomatson

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbymatson

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

Sep 18, 202226:48
18. Autonomous Security Robots (ASRs) with William Santana Li

18. Autonomous Security Robots (ASRs) with William Santana Li

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, William Santana Li of Knightscope discusses the importance of innovation in public safety and why robotics is the solution to crime and terrorism. ASRs provide real-time surveillance across multiple locations and are designed to help law enforcement be a lot more effective at doing their job. He also offers insights on where the technology is heading and encourages us to pursue our passions and focus on adding value to society.

William Santana Li is an American entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience and has a broad and deep range of expertise gained from several global assignments in the automotive sector and a number of startups. He is presently the Chairman and CEO of Knightscope, a developer of crime-fighting Autonomous Security Robots (ASRs).

Main Takeaways:

  • Combating Crime and Terrorism Through Robotics
  • The Technology Behind ASRs
  • Securing the Future

Key Quotes:

“In order to fix the problem, which is crime and terrorism, it has to be software plus hardware plus humans. You need the machines to do the monotonous and computationally-heavy stuff that no human can do, and you need the humans to do the decision-making and enforcement.” - William Santana Li

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources or click "Episode Website" below.

Connect with William

Website: https://www.knightscope.com/

Want to see the ASRs up close and personal? Check out: https://www.knightscope.com/roadshow/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/wsantanali

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamsantanali

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

Sep 04, 202225:42
17. Innovation in Healthcare with Justin Skerbetz

17. Innovation in Healthcare with Justin Skerbetz

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, Justin Skerbetz talks about how the healthcare industry has evolved in the last years incorporating technology and people’s demand. With a distinct focus on customers, Justin strives to always provide great his clients with the best customer experience. Justin Skerbetz is the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer of Parkland Community Health Plan. He has more than 15 years of progressive leadership experience in Medicare and Medicaid and has managed multiple award-winning projects, such as websites, marketing automation programs, call centers, analytic platforms, and CRMs. 

[00:20] Training Early for His Life Long Career 

● Justin talks about his motivation for pursuing a career in healthcare 

● Working in the customer service industry made him see how he could improve the seniors' experiences 

[05:13] Innovation Meets Healthcare 

● Develop new innovations driven by the need of the people ○ Parkland developed an interactive program for pregnant mothers that helped them access resources and health assets 

● Achieve continuous progress by making what you do trackable 

● Healthcare is evolving 

● Customers are flexible if you set their expectation 


[12:00] How the Pandemic Changed the Global Healthcare 

● How has the pandemic changed the game for the healthcare industry? ○ Manage experience through wearables and more are utilizing Telehealth 

● Justin talks about the changes in his organization's culture because of the pandemic ○ They are focused on how to work virtually and faster and integrate life, working together as one 

● What innovation is for Justin 

● Work-life balance amidst the healthcare demand 

[20:56] Closing Segment 

● Connect with Justin! 

Key Quotes: 

“It's very important for us that everything we're doing is trackable and tied back to how we're bettering not only that person's health but the community they're living in and the needs inside that community. And we're doing that all through just various oversights. So when you look at it, it’s insights, actions, and results in oversight.” - Justin Skerbetz 

“It kind of all needs to be wrapped around this notion of effort. We need to reduce the customer need to be an expert in how the administration of healthcare works.” - Justin Skerbetz 

“The ideal of what a customer experience should be an individual thing that an insurance agency any organizations should be looking up to.” - Justin Skerbetz 

Connect with Justin 

Website: https://parklandhealthplan.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-skerbetz-36a6096 

Today's SPONSORSHIP is brought to you by Territory Global. You can connect with us on Instagram, and Twitter or visit our website territory.co Join the work forward movement! LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or click here to listen to our previous episodes. 

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!


Aug 21, 202220:56
16. The Entrepreneur’s Journey with CEO, Bryan Clayton

16. The Entrepreneur’s Journey with CEO, Bryan Clayton

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, Bryan Clayton started by mowing his neighbor’s lawn as a side hustle and ended up founding a multimillion-dollar lawn care business. From customer-centricity to self-improvement, he joins us to share his secrets to success.

Bryan Clayton is CEO and co-founder of GreenPal, an online marketplace that connects homeowners with local lawn care professionals. GreenPal has been called the “Uber for lawn care” by Entrepreneur magazine and has over 200,000 active users completing thousands of transactions per day.

Main Takeaways:

  • From Lawn Mower to Building a Business with 20M a Year in Sales
  • Putting the Customer at the Center of the Business
  • Strategies to be a Successful Entrepreneur

Key Thought:

“As a founder, you're doing three things at once at all times. You're working in the business. You're trying to develop some kind of systems, processes, and routines. And then you're working on yourself.” - Bryan Clayton

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources or click "Episode Website" below.

Connect with Bryan

Website: https://www.yourgreenpal.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bryanmclayton

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

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Aug 07, 202221:51
15. On Minimum Lovable Products with Jay Goldman

15. On Minimum Lovable Products with Jay Goldman

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, Jay Goldman reflects on how building a bespoke tool for their company made them realize the universal need for better technologies in workplaces. Now, he and his team at Sensei Labs are committed to providing leaders with data-driven digital solutions to propel their businesses forward. He also discusses the concept of minimal viable products and how Sensei Labs goes a step further with minimum lovable products.
Jay Goldman is a Co-Founder and the CEO of Sensei Labs and New York Times best-selling author of The Decoded Company. For nearly 20 years, he has been focused on technology, design, and the art of leadership. Sensei Labs is Jay’s second tech start-up success, as he also co-founded and led Radiant Core. Additionally, he took on leadership roles as the Head of Marketing at Rypple and Managing Director at Klick Health. Jay regularly speaks with teams and companies across the globe about the Future of Work, including at TEDx, NASA, Harvard Business School, Google, and Twitter’s World Headquarters. He’s also written for publications like the Harvard Business Review and been a panelist on CBC’s The National. Now, he spends his days helping the largest enterprises in the world execute their most critical programs through Enterprise Orchestration, alongside his amazing crew of more than 80 Senseis.
Main Takeaways:
● The Story of The Decoded Company
● Transforming Workplaces Through Data-Driven Solutions
● Creating Minimal Lovable Products
Key Quotes:
“How many of our customers would be deeply disappointed if we took the product away from them? That to me is minimal lovable product. That's where you get passionate champions who are going to push this within their own companies. It's where you get to renewal rates that are really high, where it expands within those, where you get people who are happy to speak publicly about your platform and how much of a difference it's made for them.“ - Jay Goldman
Be sure to check out full show notes at
innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources or click "Episode Website" below.
Connect with Jay
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jaygoldman/
Website: https://jaygoldman.com/, ​​https://www.senseilabs.com/
The Decoded Company by Leerom Segal, Aaron Goldstein, Jay Goldman, Rahaf Harfoush: www.amazon.com/Decoded-Company-Talent-Better-Customers/dp/1591847141
These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership
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Jul 24, 202227:26
14. The Connected Leader with Karen Hardwick

14. The Connected Leader with Karen Hardwick

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, we share a conversation about self-discovery. Karen Hardwick, the author of The Connected Leader, joins us to talk about how leaders must first connect deeply with themselves in order to connect with others in a healthy way. We also focus on empathy, one of Karen’s 7 strategies to empower our true selves, and the power it holds in transforming relationships.

With master's degrees from Princeton Theological Seminary and Rutgers and decades of front row experience, Karen is a spiritually and psychologically trained leadership consultant, speaker, author, podcast host, and lover of connection. Her in-depth clinical training, along with her tenured business acumen, sets her apart and matters a great deal in a world where anyone can be a “coach”; her expertise allows her to understand, name, and address what is getting in the way of people and organizations performing at their best. Her wisdom helps her to guide individuals, teams, and entire organizations to navigate the complexities of human nature

and organizational dynamics so they can move into a culture of empowerment, inspiration, and transformation.

Main Takeaways:

  • Leaders Have a Human Being Crisis
  • Empathy is A Superpower
  • Finding Ourselves in Silence

Key Takeaways:

“We are not leaders having a leadership crisis. We're leaders having a human being crisis. So when we let that sink in and wash over us, what does that mean? What I believe it means is that leaders can no longer MBA their way into leadership, what we need to do is show up more fully human with the power of our stories.” -  Karen Hardwick

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources or click "Episode Website" below.

Connect with Karen

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenjhardwickinc/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenjhardwick/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarenJHardwickInc

Website: https://karenjhardwick.com/

The Connected Leader: https://connectedleaderbook.com/

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

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Jul 10, 202219:58
13. Your Teams Coach with Michael King

13. Your Teams Coach with Michael King

Leaders need to be authentic and transparent with their teams in order to create a sustainable and successful relationship and scale. In this episode of the Innovation Meets Leadership Podcast, Natalie Born and Michael King explore one piece of advice for leaders when it comes to capacity - being able to understand their team and how they're doing.  They discuss understanding your team's engagement, motivation, and commitment to the mission and why that’s important for creating a healthy partnership.   

Michael King, founder, and CEO of TEAMS.COACH, LLC is a highly sought-after Executive and Business Leadership Coach. He helps business leaders clarify and execute at high levels through his proprietary T.E.A.M.S. Methodology to develop measurable business growth and company-wide collaboration.  

Main Takeaways:  

  • Leadership Through the T.E.A.M.S. Methodology  
  • Why Leaders Need to Take Culture Seriously in 2022 
  • Types of Leadership Styles and Why It’s All About Striking a Balance   

Key Thoughts:

  •  “And the thing that we find that burns leaders out a lot is not knowing the capacity of their team and knowing when to dial that back.” - Michael King  

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources

Connect with Michael  

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelkingjr75
  • Website: http://www.teams.coach
  • Contact Number: 763-245-498 

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership 

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Jun 26, 202224:05
12. Building a Podcast Brand with Kevin Mills

12. Building a Podcast Brand with Kevin Mills

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, Kevin Mills takes us behind the scenes of podcasting, the pitfalls and benefits of starting your podcast, and how you can use this powerful tool to your advantage.

Kevin Mills is a co-founder of Streamlined Podcasts, a full-scale podcast production agency. Streamlined Podcasts helps its clients edit and produce their podcasts consistently for an affordable price. With industry-leading turn-times, technologies, and teams, you'll have trouble finding a better value anywhere else. Kevin's entrepreneurial journey began in direct-to-consumer sales. He now spends his time and efforts helping podcasters focus on what they do best - producing content. He is passionate about making it as easy as possible for content creators to get their message to their audience.

Main Takeaways:

● There is No “Recipe” to Success, Just Consistent Action

● How To Avoid the Pitfalls of Podcasting

● Can I Make Money with my Podcast?

● How to Start Your Own Podcast

Key Quotes:

“If you’re not using a podcast right now to network, drive more leads into your business, and build thought leadership or brand awareness, you might regret it three years from now. Podcasting is here to stay and the exponential growth has just begun.” - Kevin Mills

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources or click "Episode Website" below.

Connect with Kevin

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-mills-59a797a8/

Website - ​​https://streamlinedpodcasts.com/

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

Jun 12, 202226:18
11. Design Psychology with Thomas Watkins

11. Design Psychology with Thomas Watkins

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, Thomas Watkins breaks down the ins and outs of effective design. He emphasizes the need to consider the user experience and that the process of design development must be centered around it. The key is making people’s lives easier and avoiding over-complicated systems.

Thomas Watkins is a thought leader, speaker, and industry practitioner located in Houston TX. Thomas has made it his career’s focus to combine technology with design psychology in order to drive business success. He specializes in helping his business partners bring their own brilliant ideas to life, by translating complexity into simplicity.

Main Takeaways:

● Where Apps Go Wrong and How to Address Them

● Curating a User-Friendly Design to Establish Connection

● Utilizing Psychology to Understand the Customer

Key Quotes:

“Anytime a user has to think about your software, usually, that's not a good thing… If it's something that's easy to learn and for you to operate in, that's where the win is.” - Thomas Watkins

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources.


Connect with Thomas

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/watkinsthomas/

Website: ​​https://www.3leaf.consulting/

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

May 22, 202222:12
10. Innovation in Learning with Shaunak Roy

10. Innovation in Learning with Shaunak Roy

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, Shaunak Roy discusses innovation in education through technology. Backed by evidence, it goes to show that active and engaged learning results in better outcomes. By being aware and taking part in the dialogue, the future of better education can become clearer and more feasible.

Shaunak Roy is the founder and CEO of Yellowdig. Yellowdig is a community-driven active learning platform adopted by over 130 colleges and universities, K12 schools, and corporate training clients. Yellowdig’s mission is to transform every classroom into an active, social and experiential learning community.

Main Takeaways:

● The Most Effective Method of Learning for Better Engagement

● The Spike of Innovation and Utilizing Technology for Education

● Create the Dialogue for Future of Education

Key Quote:

“We have to really start to question whether the time the students are spending in the classrooms, and the value they're getting out of the education system… [are] adding up… in terms of the effort that is getting into it.” - Shaunak Roy

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources

Connect with Shaunak

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaunak-roy-65231b/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/shaunak_roy

Website: https://www.yellowdig.co/

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

May 08, 202220:30
9. Blindspots & Culture with Brad Smith

9. Blindspots & Culture with Brad Smith

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, Brad Smith talks about blind spots and how we can better address these issues through self-awareness. Without recognizing our natural tendencies, we tend to refuse proper delegation and thus, lack exponential growth. By understanding ourselves and our capacities to learn, we can stay intentional with what we do.

Brad Smith is the founder and CEO of Stellar Insight Inc. a business growth consulting and coaching company. Brad has been a chemist, production plant and equipment designer, a business manager, a business consultant, and an executive coach for CEOs and business owners among other things. He pursues insight and understanding into the convergence of business success, organizational excellence, and the practical actions it takes to consistently achieve significant business growth. In his words, “Everything is a theory until you experience it and can consciously repeat the experiment.” He has coached CEOs, business owners, and legislators for organizational growth and excellence for more than twenty years.

He has worked extensively with a variety of industries. Those companies who commit to the work find the specific results rewarding and significant. His passion is working with ambitious CEOs, business owners and their teams who are committed to their company’s excellence and growth.

Main Takeaways:

● Thinking For Yourself to Get Rid of Dependence

● Recognizing Who You Are and Where You Fit

● How Organizations Can Address the Blind Spots

Key Quote:

“If you're in pain, stop, step back, look at it and say, ‘What's the purpose that I wanted to create that created this instead of what I wanted?’ There's purpose in pain.” - Brad Smith

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources 

Connect with Brad

Website: http://www.stellarinsightinc.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-smith-7458858/

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

Apr 24, 202224:53
8. Leading Beyond Change with Michael Sahota

8. Leading Beyond Change with Michael Sahota

Welcome to Innovation Meets Leadership! I’m your host, Natalie Born. In this episode, Michael Sahota discusses what it entails to unlock the creative potential of people in the organization. He reveals the oppression behind the traditional systems and how leaders must make the daily choice of evolving. By prioritizing people over process, it is possible to create an agile space.

Michael K Sahota is a Speaker, Trainer, & Consultant on Evolutionary Leadership. He is the founder and CEO of SHIFT314 Inc - a boutique training and consulting organization that specializes in the organizational, cultural and leadership shifts needed to unlock success with Agile, Digital, Lean, etc. Michael is the co-creator of the SHIFT314 Evolutionary Leadership Framework™ (SELF) that provides practical step-by-step for the inner and outer shifts needed to unlock Business Agility, Teal and other new ways of working. Michael has trained thousands of leaders worldwide through his highly accoladed Certified Agile Leadership Training.

Main Takeaways:

● Building Engaging Frameworks in the Digital and Agile Space

● Eradicate Oppression and Make the Shift to Challenge the System

● People Over Progress - Harnessing The Power of Agility

Key Quote:

“The truth of the matter is, all those transformation programs are done with the same traditional mindset… They're actually huge acts of oppression… Wake up, stop oppressing the people.” - Michael Sahota

Be sure to check out full show notes at https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/resources or click "Episode Website" below.

Connect with Michael

Website: https://shift314.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelsahota/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/shift314/

Twitter: twitter.com/MichaelSahota

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SHIFT314

Instagram: instagram.com/shift314_leadership/

These are proven solutions to advance your innovation process. Check out our website  innovationmeetsleadership.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @innovationmeetsleadership

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let’s go transform something!

Apr 10, 202226:58