I'm thrilled to have Mach Millett, the Chief Innovation Officer and Alternative Investment Practice Leader at Lockton Financial Services, join us on The Innovation Storytellers Show. Mach's impressive background spans over a decade at Marsh and a legal career at Skadden Arps, equipping him with a unique perspective on managing risks in innovation. In this episode, we're not just talking about insurance in the traditional sense. We're delving into how to protect the future - the innovations and potential within our organizations. Mach's role at Lockton involves creating new insurance products for unaddressed risk exposures and serving as a technical expert in various complex fields. His experience crafting insurance contracts and resolving disputes gives him a unique vantage point on the intersection of innovation, law, and insurance. Our conversation travels from Central America to the intricacies of the legal profession and deep into the insurance world. We discuss the importance of involving legal, compliance, and PR teams from the onset of an innovation project, forming an 'Innovation Council' to ensure all potential issues are addressed early. Mach shares his experiences with the challenges and triumphs of navigating innovation's legal and compliance landscapes, providing insights into how to foresee and manage the unforeseen. This episode explores the support systems underpinning innovation. We delve into the importance of seeing around corners, anticipating risks, and extending a hand across different silos to foster successful innovation. Mach's journey from a legal expert to an innovation leader at Lockton illustrates the multifaceted nature of protecting and nurturing the next big thing.

In this episode of the Innovation Storytellers Show, I spoke with Lincoln Bleavens, Stanford University's Executive Director of Sustainability & Energy Management. With a rich background in the global energy sector, Lincoln brings a unique blend of academic and practical expertise to his role, overseeing a range of operations from energy and water management to emergency preparedness and waste management. Our discussion centered on Stanford's innovative approach to sustainability, viewing the university as a microcosm of a larger urban system. Lincoln highlighted Stanford's significant strides in aligning its operational needs with sustainability goals. Notably, the university's transition from a natural gas-fired plant to renewable electricity and from a steam-based system to more efficient hot and chilled water systems has substantially reduced energy and water consumption. These changes, Lincoln pointed out, are not just about adopting new technologies but represent a fundamental shift in resource management, resulting in a dramatic decrease in distribution losses and water consumption. This approach positions Stanford as a leader in sustainable innovation, demonstrating how operational efficiency can coexist with environmental stewardship. Lincoln's insights underscore the importance of sustainability as a driver of innovation. Stanford is setting an example for other institutions and cities by focusing on long-term, sustainable solutions. His passion for applied innovation and sustainability is a testament to Stanford's commitment to leading by example in this vital area. In summary, my conversation with Lincoln Bleavens was an in-depth look into how Stanford is pioneering a sustainable future, offering valuable lessons and strategies that could inspire a broader movement toward sustainable innovation and efficiency.

This week I explore a unique perspective on innovation through the lens of gender dynamics and intuition. Our guest, Fabienne Jacquet, a scientist, corporate innovator, author, and the founder of INNOVEVE®, brings a wealth of experience and a distinctive viewpoint on the subject. Fabienne challenges conventional wisdom by emphasizing the importance of both masculine and feminine energies in the innovation process, transcending the traditional gender roles. She discusses the neuroscience behind these energies, explaining how different brain compositions, including the distribution of gray and white matter, contribute to diverse problem-solving approaches and ways of connecting the dots in complex situations. This concept extends beyond mere physiological differences to encompass a broader understanding of how we, as innovators, can harness these diverse energies for creative and effective problem-solving.   An intriguing part of the conversation revolves around the role of intuition in innovation. Fabienne advocates for the inclusion of diverse perspectives in the innovation process, arguing that this diversity is crucial for accumulating a wide range of information and ideas. She emphasizes the importance of being open to new cultures, experiences, and ways of thinking, as this openness is key to fostering a creative and innovative mindset. Additionally, Fabienne touches upon the often-overlooked necessity of allowing our brains time to rest, highlighting how our best ideas often emerge when we are not actively trying to force them.   A particularly fascinating aspect of the discussion is Fabienne's exploration of how feminine energy, often characterized as chaotic and less predictable, plays a crucial role in the front end of the innovation process. This contrasts with the more structured and organized masculine energy that tends to dominate the latter stages of bringing a product to market. Fabienne's approach is not just theoretical; she has applied these principles throughout her career in various fields, from academia to corporate innovation. My conversation with Fabienne Jacquet is a journey through the intricacies of innovation and a call to embrace a more inclusive and holistic approach to creating and implementing new ideas. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the deeper layers of innovation and how integrating diverse energies and perspectives can lead to more meaningful and impactful outcomes.

In the latest installment of the Innovation Storytellers Show, I had the pleasure of engaging in a profound conversation with Paul Reeder, the Executive Director of the Center for Innovation Strategies at Ohio State University. Our discussion explored what innovation truly means for businesses today, far beyond the superficial trappings that often masquerade as progress. Paul Reeder is a name that resonates with authority in the realm of innovation. His mission at the Center for Innovation Strategies is not just about fostering new ideas; it's about orchestrating a symphony of collaboration that resonates with value creation for a diverse range of stakeholders. From the hallowed halls of Ohio State to the corporate boardrooms of Fortune 500 companies, Paul's influence on innovation is profound. His expertise has been sought after by industry titans such as Procter and Gamble, Honda, and Nationwide Insurance, all seeking to infuse genuine innovation into their DNA. Our conversation was a clarion call against the backdrop of what Paul aptly terms 'Innovation Theater'—a facade of innovation that is all too common in today's corporate world. It's a world where the appearance of innovation is often mistaken for its substance. Paul's insights revealed a troubling trend where companies are quick to set up flashy innovation studios, complete with trendy furniture and attire, mistaking these superficial elements for the heart of innovation. However, Paul argues that true innovation is not about the optics; it's about the impact. It's about understanding and serving customer needs in ways previously unimagined, identifying new customer segments, and creating a 'blip in our business' that signifies real growth and evolution. This kind of innovation doesn't just happen; it requires a cultural shift and a commitment from every level of the organization, especially the C-suite. Throughout our discussion, Paul emphasized the need for a new paradigm to measure innovation—one that accounts for cultural change, customer engagement, and the ability to break new ground. We discuss how traditional metrics like cash ROI fall short in capturing the essence of innovation, which is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. As we wrapped up our conversation, it was clear that Paul's vision for innovation is both a challenge and an invitation. It's a challenge to businesses to look beyond their walls and engage with external innovation groups, creating partnerships that fuel creativity and drive growth. It's an invitation to step out of the conventional box and embrace a broader vision of what innovation can be—a strategic pillar essential to the future of any organization.

In this compelling episode of Innovation Storytellers, I am joined by Brian Solis, the Head of Global Innovation at ServiceNow. If you've ever been fascinated by how technology serves as a catalyst for business transformation, then this episode is a must-listen for you. Brian Solis, who has spent over two decades studying digital Darwinism, discusses the evolving role of Executive Briefing Centers and Innovation Centers in the tech industry. These spaces, once merely showrooms for platforms like ServiceNow, have transcended their original purpose. They now serve as critical hubs for business transformation, providing a bespoke experience tailored to the unique needs of visiting executives and prospects. Such spaces facilitate targeted, transformative discussions and foster meaningful partnerships. They guide businesses toward increased agility and resilience in an ever-changing market landscape. However, the journey isn't without its hurdles. The episode also delves into the challenges involved, such as the potential for information overload that can overwhelm visitors. It questions whether these centers, despite their high-tech allure, run the risk of becoming mere 'window dressing' if not updated regularly to reflect current trends and technologies. The conversation shifts seamlessly to a critical look at the marketing landscape, emphasizing the importance of empathy and storytelling. Brian shares insightful thoughts on how conventional marketing frameworks like personas and journey maps could potentially limit a business's ability to genuinely connect with its customers. He introduces the novel concept of employing storytelling techniques, inspired by Pixar's and Joseph Campbell's Hero's Journey, to humanize the customer experience. As the episode unfolds, Brian challenges listeners to rethink technology's potential impact on life and work beyond its "wow factor." He offers an example related to AI, questioning the ethics and long-term impact of replacing human roles like copywriting with machine-generated content. Instead, he proposes an innovative approach—augmenting human capabilities to create new, premium services, thereby creating new avenues for revenue and growth. In essence, this episode provokes thoughtful debates and challenges conventional perspectives. It urges listeners to not only marvel at technology’s capabilities but to question and understand its broader ramifications on society, business, and human well-being.

In today's fast-paced, ever-evolving business landscape, leadership is under constant scrutiny. The spotlight often shines on the balance—or imbalance—between two critical aspects of decision-making: logic and intuition. While some say good leadership relies on hard facts and analytics, others argue that instinct plays an invaluable role. I sit down with Mary Pat Knight, an authority on humanized leadership, who compellingly addresses this intricate balance between head and heart. Mary Pat Knight has a fascinating perspective that even engineers—often regarded as the epitomes of logic and structured thinking—can use to hone their instinctual skills. She points out that engineers are generally trained to rely on data, to scrutinize every decision through the lens of calculations and structured processes. However, the art of leadership requires more than just crunching numbers; it requires acknowledging that sometimes, instinct whispers critical pieces of information that raw data can't capture. What's remarkable about Mary Pat Knight's view is that she doesn't advocate for the abandonment of logic for instinct, or vice versa. Instead, she champions the harmonious blend of passion and logic, the quintessence of what she calls humanized leadership. Leaders who successfully balance their analytical skills with emotional intelligence create work environments that value instinct and data, leading to more well-rounded decisions. Listen in as Mary Pat Knight unravels the intricate process of integrating intuition into a traditionally logical decision-making environment. Whether you are leading a team, building a business, or simply curious about the subtleties of effective leadership, the insights she provides are both practical and transformative. She makes a compelling case for the need to be both analytical and emotional, logical and instinctual, in our roles as leaders. This multi-faceted approach to leadership is not just about making better decisions; it's about making decisions that are comprehensive, inclusive, and, most importantly, human.

I sit down with Hansini Sharma, Practice Lead at Acquis Consulting Group, to delve into the rapidly changing landscape of the travel industry. The episode is a journey through the nexus of innovation and execution, setting the stage for transformative impacts on both business and leisure travel. Hansini's 15+ years of industry experience shines as she outlines the paradigm shifts driven by sustainability and technological advancements. She elaborates on how cultural awareness and employee engagement are becoming the linchpins of change, and how the industry is reacting to these emergent trends. The conversation spans from practical insights to big-picture vision, touching on both the immediate challenges and long-term opportunities that the multi-trillion-dollar travel sector faces. This episode serves as a catalyst for leaders in innovation, ESG, and corporate travel management to rethink their strategies, offering actionable advice and thought-provoking dialogue on harnessing innovation to drive sustainable change. Tune in to explore the intersection of vision and execution in travel, and leave with new perspectives that can be immediately applied to your own organizational frameworks.

This week, I invite you to feast your senses on a captivating dialogue with Kristin Bryan, Director of Culinary Innovation at HelloFresh. Kristin takes us on a culinary journey that marries taste and technology, enriching our palates and minds. For those intrigued by how the complexity of flavors in your HelloFresh meal kit is conceived, Kristin introduces the riveting concept of "Creative Abrasion." Coined by Linda Hill, this approach isn't about conflicts but about generating a kind of friction that sparks groundbreaking innovation. It fosters an open dialogue within the team—making it the spice that elevates every dish and concept HelloFresh develops. Kristin highlights the underestimated yet essential ingredient in their innovation journey—psychological safety. In an industry where pleasing the customer is the ultimate goal, one wonders how a team of culinary experts decides what 'pleasing' means. Kristin offers that creating a psychologically safe environment is the cornerstone of this process, enabling team members to bring their unfiltered opinions to the tasting table. Adding another layer to this rich conversation is the debate on convenience versus authenticity. With busy lives and an increasing demand for quick meal solutions, HelloFresh experiments with convenient sauce packages. Kristin ponders how far they can go in delivering convenience without compromising the quality of the dining experience.  But innovation at HelloFresh doesn't stop at dinner. Addressing the often-overlooked domain of school lunches, Kristin reveals how meticulous research and customer feedback fuel their drive to simplify yet enrich the midday meal for children. The challenge lies in delivering familiar yet balanced meals, which calls for an intricate dance between fun and nutritional integrity. During this conversation Kristin uncovers her roots in innovation through her experience at tech startups and Walt Disney World. She attests to the transformative influence of her mentors at Disney, encouraging her to view food not as mere sustenance but as a holistic sensory experience—an adventure if you will. So, please tune in for an episode that promises to be as stimulating to your intellect as it is to your taste buds. You will come away with a fresh perspective on what it takes to innovate in the culinary world, from conceptualizing a dish to the logistical gymnastics of putting it on your table. After listening, you'll never see your HelloFresh—or any other meal kit—the same way again.

In the latest episode of the Innovation Storytellers Show, I sit down with John Winsor, Founder and Chairman of Open Assembly, to examine the intricacies of the future of work. John, who is an authority on open talent and innovative work models, brings decades of experience and wisdom to the conversation.   Winsor is not a stranger to groundbreaking ideas. He has served as an executive in residence at Harvard Business School's Laboratory for Innovation Science and is currently writing his sixth book, "Open Talent: Leveraging a Global Workforce to Solve Your Biggest Challenges." His expertise places him at the crossroads of innovation, disruption, and storytelling—my favorite trifecta.   John details how work as we know it is undergoing a radical transformation. Traditional office settings and 9-to-5 commitments are giving way to a more dynamic, fluid, and global workforce. He challenges businesses to rethink how and where they source their talent, suggesting that the next genius addition to their team might not be within the "four walls" of their office. Instead, he introduces the concept of a digital aggregation platform that reduces the friction associated with adopting open talent and freelancing models, facilitating a seamless transition to more adaptive and efficient working modes. John's work also has a broader societal ambition. He recently co-founded a global industry coalition, the Center for the Transformation of Work, which aims to revolutionize the workplace for a billion people by 2025. It's a lofty goal that magnifies the scale and urgency of the changes we are witnessing in workspaces and workstyles. This episode is a compelling narrative that combines John Winsor’s strategic foresight with my expertise in storytelling to paint a vivid picture of what the future could, and perhaps should, look like for businesses and professionals alike. To add a touch of intrigue, John also teases an upcoming excerpt in the Harvard Business Review and discusses his forthcoming book set to be published in 2024. All said and done, this episode is an invaluable resource for leaders and thinkers who are willing to challenge traditional notions and are hungry for a glimpse of what the future of work holds.

I sat down with Melora Zaner, the Chief Design Officer at TIAA, to discuss the often-overlooked value of incremental innovation and the transformative power of design in addressing pressing societal challenges like retirement.  Our conversation starts with an urgent issue that many are facing—the retirement crisis in America. We discuss the alarming statistics indicating that 40% of Americans are on track to run out of money in their retirement years. Melora offers an intriguing alternative by asking, "What if we shift our thinking from 'retirement planning' to 'longevity planning'?" This approach puts the focus on sustained income, healthcare provisions, and overall quality of life, rather than just a lump sum that may or may not last a lifetime. Innovation doesn't have to be grandiose to be impactful, as Melora eloquently points out. The episode delves into the concept of 'breadcrumbing,' a term Melora uses to describe the art of celebrating small, incremental changes that lead toward a significant shift. These small steps, often overlooked in the constant quest for disruptive change, can offer customers stepping stones, helping them see a future where their needs and concerns are addressed. We also discuss the importance of storytelling in the journey of innovation. How do you narrate a story that balances the celebration of small victories with the drive toward grand visions? The idea is to offer manageable steps, or breadcrumbs, to make the journey less daunting and more rewarding for both customers and organizations. These incremental changes shouldn't be underestimated; they often result in exponential gains over time, especially when they address specific customer pain points. Finally, Melora shares insights into getting internal stakeholders on board with innovation. She emphasizes that incremental wins can build confidence internally and set the stage for bigger, more disruptive changes in the long run. Tune into this episode of Innovation Storytellers Show to explore the power of incremental innovation and design-led thinking in transforming how we approach complex challenges, from the retirement crisis to customer engagement and internal alignment. Because sometimes, the biggest changes start with the smallest steps. Don't miss this enlightening discussion, full of actionable insights and thought-provoking concepts that challenge the status quo.

In a time where innovation is often boiled down to buzzwords, Adipat Virdi, Global Immersive Strategist and Former Global Creative Product Lead for Immersive, brings us back to the essence of true innovation. With a remarkable history of embedding immersive strategy into global organizations like Meta, Virgin Atlantic, and the BBC, Virdi helps us refocus on what's important. He challenges us to escape 'Plato's Cave' and reassess the often unconscious limitations we put on the idea of innovation. Virdi emphasizes the importance of separating culture from business drivers, imploring us to take a more human-centric approach. By focusing on the dynamic relationship between content, consumer, and brand, he argues that innovation becomes not just a corporate goal but a holistic experience. However, he acknowledges that this 'uncoupling' can be a monumental task for businesses ingrained with certain cultural values. As we move into an era where linear progression is becoming increasingly inadequate, Virdi propounds the need for thinking in ecosystems. Yet he cautions that such a shift introduces complexities that could act as a barrier to practical implementation. The challenges lie in balancing human-centric values with business imperatives and in overhauling pre-existing corporate cultures that resist change. Yet, the opportunities are equally profound. The very act of aligning business goals with ecosystem thinking opens up new paths for disruptive innovation. Virdi introduces us to the term 'soul work'—a phrase that might sound esoteric but is deeply strategic. This is about asking the questions that really matter to your audience digging deep to understand their needs and desires. It's an approach that promises innovation and meaningful engagement with consumers.   The conversation takes an even more forward-looking turn as we discuss Apple’s soon-to-be-released Vision Pro, a device that's set to redefine digital interaction. Virdi provides insights into how the market will need to adapt to the complexities of spatial computing and offers a glimpse into the future of experiential marketing. In the end, Virdi leaves us with a clear understanding that immersive technology is not a fleeting trend but a game-changing evolution. If brands don't adapt, they risk missing out on new generations of consumers who are already primed for immersive experiences. This engaging and insightful conversation is not to be missed, as it navigates the future of brand engagement in an increasingly immersive world.

Get ready for an illuminating journey into the complexities and nuances of innovation with my guest, Amy Radin, Executive Advisor and founder of Pragmatic Innovation Partners. With a career that spans multiple decades and industries, Amy brings an unparalleled depth of insight into what it truly takes to innovate, especially in the financial services sector. From being Citi's first global Chief Innovation Officer to her executive roles at American Express and Axa, her expertise is as expansive as it is profound. Amy specializes in helping business leaders navigate the complex terrain of innovation by identifying new growth opportunities while mitigating associated risks. Her unique approach focuses on unraveling the cultural layers within organizations, providing invaluable perspectives on how internal culture can both aid and impede innovation processes. One of the most compelling elements of this discussion revolves around the concept of "execution." As Amy stresses, an idea, no matter how groundbreaking, lacks value without the capability to bring it into reality. This principle holds true whether you're at a startup or part of an established Fortune 500 company. Her viewpoints bring a fresh, grounded perspective to the often nebulous and romanticized world of innovation. Does your organization need a Chief Innovation Officer (CIO)? This question forms another central theme of our conversation. While appointing a CIO can signify a company's commitment to innovation, it also runs the risk of excluding other departments from this critical function. Amy expertly navigates this organizational dilemma, emphasizing the importance of an inclusive innovation culture. Further enhancing this rich tapestry of insights, Amy delves into the critical but often overlooked relationship between innovation and business strategy. Even the most creative endeavors are doomed to become aimless projects without strategic alignment. If you're grappling with the complexities of innovation in today's fast-paced business world, this episode will equip you with actionable strategies and insights.

In today's episode of the Innovation Storytellers podcast, we'll delve into the world of one of the most well-known, respected, and beloved brands in the United States and worldwide: Jack Daniels. According to Inner Brands' Best Global Brands 2022 report, Jack Daniels has been a household name for over 155 years. We are excited to have Heather Howell, the Global Director of Trademark and Innovation at Jack Daniels on the show. Heather's leadership in driving innovation has been a crucial factor in the brand's continued success, including its recent entry into the super-premium whiskey market. During this episode, we will explore the history and future of the iconic brand and hear from Heather about her role in driving innovation at Jack Daniels. And of course, what better way to enjoy the show than with a glass of Jack Daniels on the rocks. So, grab a glass and join us as we celebrate this American classic brand.

In this week's edition of the Innovation Storytellers podcast, I invite you to join me in an insightful conversation with Chris Duffy, a strategic futurist and leading figure in digital experiences with Adobe. We explore how AI, creativity, and the metaverse collide as we discuss Adobe's groundbreaking work in generative AI and the transformation of work through AI, and the future of design. In this captivating episode, delve into the intricacies of AI in image generation, the evolving landscape of the metaverse, and the impact of AI on jobs and work dynamics. Gain a unique perspective on the convergence of technology, creativity, and the human experience, and learn how Adobe pushes the boundaries of innovation to shape the future. Take advantage of this thought-provoking and inspiring conversation that will leave you pondering the limitless potential of Generative AI and the digital realm.

What does innovation mean to you? For many, it’s about the latest tech marvel or the next big thing in the market. But as I sat down with Tyrome ‘Ty’ Smith, Director of Strategic Partnership at Common Mission Project, our conversation gave the term a whole new meaning. Our discussion revolved around the unseen channels of innovative ideas - beyond Silicon Valley and tech giants, deep into governmental organizations, think tanks, and more. We pondered upon a simple yet profound question: where do these seeds of revolutionary ideas truly germinate? Ty highlighted an area that's often overlooked: Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). While institutions like Stanford and MIT often grab the limelight, it's these lesser-known educational bastions where a significant chunk of innovative minds are nurtured. And this revelation isn't just about recognizing talent but also about acknowledging the challenges they face. Consider this: North Carolina A&T State University faced underfunding to the staggering tune of $3.7 billion from 1987-2020. A figure that not only reflects financial disparity but also raises questions on potential innovations lost in this financial void. Our conversation often circled back to a memorable movie scene from 'Moneyball'. In a pivotal moment, the main character highlights the futility of trying to compete with the affluent while being resource-strapped. The message? Redefine the game. Just as in baseball, the landscape of innovation needs a fresh perspective – one that isn’t confined by financial boundaries or traditional norms. So, as you think about innovation, I challenge you to shift your perspective. Embrace innovation not just as a groundbreaking product but as a revolutionary way of thinking. Dive into our full conversation and let's reshape the innovation narrative together.

In the world of innovation, stories often act as the bridge between an idea and its realization. And who better to delve into this fascinating dynamic than David Zaboski, Co-Founder & Chief Creative Officer at Laetro. With roots that trace back to the prestigious Art Center College of Design and then onwards to the bustling creative studios of Disney during its 'second golden age of animation’, David's journey is nothing short of magical. Films like Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, and Lion King owe part of their brilliance to his artistic prowess. But David's contribution to the world of animation wasn't just about creating stunning visuals. He played a pivotal role in shaping the 'principles of the animator.' It's the delicate art of creating and nurturing the creator within. It's about understanding that innovation isn't a one-off act but a constant, evolving process that demands passion and discipline. David's insights extend beyond the animation studio. They span the vast fields of entrepreneurial innovation. The challenge? How to turn a mere thought into something tangible, something real. This process, as David points out, is strikingly similar in both the world of art and the world of business. The secret ingredients? Love and storytelling. The significance of storytelling in the world of business cannot be understated. More than just a medium of conveying information, stories have the power to resonate, evoke emotions, and, most importantly, inspire change. David aptly quips about the common misbelief where data often overshadows the story. To him, storytelling isn't just math. It's a potent chemistry. A chemistry that can evoke a range of emotions in us - from the adrenaline rush we feel during an intense movie scene to the dopamine release when we root for our favorite characters. This chemistry of storytelling is the very essence of innovation. Because real innovation isn't just about introducing new products or services; it's about reshaping perceptions, altering worldviews, and guiding audiences from the known present to the promising, albeit uncertain, future. And to make this journey, one needs the compelling force of a well-told story. In this digital age where data is often heralded as king, David Zaboski's insights remind us of the timeless power of storytelling. The intricate dance between love, story, and art not only defines the world of animation but stands as a testament to the world of innovation. As we step into an era where change is the only constant, let's remember David's words and acknowledge that while data might provide direction, the stories infused with love truly drive us forward. Because, in the end, it's not just about turning thoughts into things; it's about turning thoughts into things that matter.

In this eye-opening episode of Innovation Storytellers, we host a lively discussion with Elisa Farri, VP & Co-lead of Capgemini Invent's Management Lab. Join us as we dive into the ever-evolving world of the Chief Innovation Officer (CIO), dispelling the notion that AI is set to dethrone the human touch in the realm of innovation. From the heart of business processes and people management to the broadening scope of innovation beyond academia, Elisa explores the radical shifts in traditional management practices and models. With unique insights based on her experiences and research at Harvard Business School Europe Research Center, Elisa prompts us to think about our roles in a new light. One of the key highlights of our conversation is the inseparable bond between sustainability and innovation. Elisa compellingly argues that these two elements are two sides of the same coin, each fueling the other towards a better future. As innovation officers, how can we incorporate sustainability by design into our organizations, both internally and externally? Innovation doesn't stop there. AI, too, plays a pivotal role in this narrative. Elisa outlines the potential of AI as a powerful brainstorming tool, but only when approached with the right domain expertise and strategic prompt sequences. Is the future of our organizations dependent on AI? Or is it more about the synergy between human expertise and AI capabilities? At the heart of our discussion is the urgent need for authentic leadership. Today's narrative, especially in Fortune 500 organizations, revolves around innovation and sustainability. However, there's a stark gap between buzzwords and action. Can our leaders walk the talk and align their behaviors to this narrative? This episode is a call to all leaders, innovators, and thinkers. As we step into the future, it's time to bridge the gap and embrace the opportunities lying at the intersection of AI, sustainability, and innovation. Listen in to gain invaluable insights, hard-won lessons, and practical approaches from Elisa and her team. It's time to roll up our sleeves and get our hands dirty for the future of our organizations.

In this episode of The Innovation Storytellers Show, I am excited to take you on a journey through the world of play with Carol Hill, Global Learning Director at the LEGO Group. As a catalyst for change and a staunch advocate for continuous improvement, Carol leads her team in embedding learning through play across the LEGO system. In this episode, we explore how a tiny LEGO brick can be a catalyst for significant innovation. Carol shares how LEGO facilitates an environment of psychological safety, empowering teams to challenge the status quo and move swiftly on innovation projects. We discuss the 'popcorn effect' of idea generation and the power of trust within a team. Carol further guides us through the prototyping process at the LEGO Group, giving insights on overcoming the 'hippo effect' and fostering a diverse pool of ideas. We learn how LEGO enables everyone in the room to voice their ideas, paving the way for more creative problem-solving. Carol provides invaluable advice to Chief Innovation Officers on incorporating serious play into their work and teams. She emphasizes the importance of team engagement and genuine listening, underlining how these elements can lead to more innovative ideas and successful projects. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative practices, team building, and the power of play. Join us as we explore the transformative world of LEGO and discover how to shape the future of work through play.

Today, I delve deep into a topic close to my heart and vital in the modern business landscape - cultivating an innovation culture amid rapid technological change. Joining us in this intriguing exploration is Brian Evergreen, an authority in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and author of the soon-to-be-released book, 'Autonomous Transformation.' Brian is the founder of The Profitable Good Company, and best known for his work in advising Fortune 500 executives on AI strategy. In this episode, we unpack the real-world impacts of automation and the potential for re-skilling and transitioning workers. We discuss the transformative power of open innovation and the service economy, exploring how they might offer fresh opportunities. We touch upon the shifting dynamics of employee loyalty and job satisfaction in a world increasingly interconnected through platforms like LinkedIn and Glassdoor. Finally, Brian shares his passion for social innovation - fostering an online environment where truth, trustworthiness, and credibility are more valuable than misinformation and fear mongering. Prepare for an enlightening discussion that pairs the perspectives of an AI expert and an anthropologist striving to restore humanity to AI conversations. So buckle up and get ready to explore the future of innovation culture with us!

In this compelling episode of Innovation Storytellers Show, we explore the world of HR and innovation with two extraordinary guests: Ira Wolfe, a pioneer in future-readiness, and Jason Cochran, the 'Chief Connection Officer' at Telos. Both are esteemed co-hosts of Geeks, Geezers, Googlization, an award-winning podcast exploring the future of work. In the face of rapid and relentless change, they encourage us to view the 'Never Normal' as an opportunity to evolve and thrive. Our discussion revolves around how smart companies are redefining 'work' in a post-pandemic world. How do we tackle returning to the workforce, particularly for women? How do we address the reluctance to go back to office spaces? And in this era of AI, how do we reshape organizational structures to help humans perform at their highest potential? Ira brings attention to the need for reimagining work and adjusting to an ever-changing 'Never Normal' world. He dissects hybrid work models, incremental changes, and the crucial need to reimagine our offices. On the other hand, Jason explores the concept of loneliness at work, not as a state of being alone but as a lack of connection. He also brings to light an intriguing case where a company replaced all managers with coaches, catalyzing a discussion on meeting employees' needs for nurturing, growth, and fulfillment. This episode is a treasure trove of insights and ideas about the evolving world of work. So, join us as we traverse the reimagination of work and the significance of meaningful connections, wellness, and the future of work in this 'Never Normal' era.