Afleveringen

  • Can innovation truly succeed without trust, integrity, and the right team behind it? In this episode of the Innovation Storytellers Show I welcome Tracy Nolan, Senior Vice President of MarketPoint at Humana, for an insightful discussion on what it really takes to lead big ideas and bold changes.

    Tracy shares how her journey began in an unexpected place—retail—where an inventive approach led to record-breaking sales, setting the stage for a career of embracing innovation. Through her remarkable experiences in telecom, notably leading Sprint’s transformative turnaround and groundbreaking merger with T-Mobile, Tracy underscores how calculated risk-taking and bold decisions can radically shift a company's direction.

    At the heart of their conversation is the critical role of trust during times of change, especially mergers and acquisitions. Tracy candidly discusses the strategies that built trust with teams she led, emphasizing the necessity of open, transparent communication—even in tough situations. Her relatable story about the "goose in the parking lot" vividly illustrates how addressing seemingly small team concerns can significantly impact company culture and morale.

    Transitioning from telecom to healthcare, Tracy brings these leadership lessons to Humana, where she now tackles healthcare’s complex landscape. She reveals her approach to fostering a culture of innovation and shared vision, highlighting that successful innovation isn’t about dictating strategy from above but rather bringing teams along on a collective journey toward clearly visualized goals.

    The episode wraps with Tracy tackling my hot-seat questions, revealing her personal thoughts on the greatest innovation of all time, the historical team she'd most love to have joined, and the one innovation she'd love to see next—ideas sure to spark lively debate among listeners.

    What role does trust play in your innovation journey? Share your experiences with us after tuning in to this inspiring conversation!

  • What happens when AI meets automotive repair? Can technology bridge the growing knowledge gap between seasoned mechanics and the next generation of technicians? And how will the “Right to Repair” movement reshape how vehicles are maintained in the future?

    In this episode of Innovation Storytellers Show, I sit down with Eric West, Chief Growth Officer at Convertible AI, to explore the intersection of AI, workforce training, and the future of vehicle diagnostics.

    Eric shares his perspective on the hidden complexities behind the so-called "technician shortage" and explains why the issue goes far beyond a simple lack of workers. He highlights how AI can capture and distribute the knowledge of master mechanics, ensuring that valuable expertise is not lost as older generations of technicians retire. The ability to embed decades of experience into AI-powered diagnostic tools can revolutionize the way mechanics diagnose and repair vehicles, making training more efficient and ensuring accuracy in the repair process.

    One of the most significant shifts in the industry is the growing push for Right to Repair legislation. Eric discusses how this movement challenges the traditional power balance between independent repair shops and major automakers. As proprietary repair information becomes more accessible, AI-driven tools could empower smaller shops with the same level of technical insight as dealership service centers, ultimately creating a more competitive and consumer-friendly industry.

    The conversation also touches on the role of synthetic data in AI innovation. Eric explains how AI-generated datasets are helping businesses predict vehicle issues before they occur, providing a new level of preventative maintenance. With the ability to simulate real-world conditions and test different scenarios, synthetic data is allowing auto manufacturers and repair shops to stay ahead of potential problems, improving efficiency and reducing costly repairs.

    So, what does the future of AI-powered workforce training look like? How will AI reshape industries where hands-on expertise has always been essential? And most importantly, how do we ensure that innovation benefits the people who drive these industries forward? Let’s continue the conversation.

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  • What if the songs artists love the least become the ones fans can’t live without?

    In this episode of the Innovation Storytellers Show, I sit down with Amani Roberts, DJ, professor, author, and creative powerhouse, to explore where real innovation happens in the music industry—beyond technology, beyond distribution, and deep into the creative process itself.

    Amani takes us behind the scenes of some of the most legendary R&B hits, revealing how experimentation, last-minute decisions, and creative risks have shaped the soundtracks of our lives. From Earth, Wind & Fire collaborating with magician David Copperfield to transform live performances, to Kool & The Gang reinventing their sound to reach #1, we unpack the unexpected ways music evolves.

    But this conversation goes beyond music. Amani shares lessons on creativity, reinvention, and ownership that apply to any industry—whether you’re leading a business, building a brand, or creating something from nothing. We also dive into the business of music today, from the rise of streaming and catalog sales to how artists are navigating a world where music is consumed differently than ever before.

    If you’ve ever wondered how collaboration, risk-taking, and even rejection fuel the biggest breakthroughs, not just in music but in innovation at large. This episode is for you.

  • What happens when big data meets healthcare innovation? In this episode of the Innovation Storyteller Show, Susan Lindner talks with Tina Posey, CEO of HealthcarePoint, about how data is transforming clinical trials and reshaping healthcare on a global scale.

    Tina shares her journey into healthcare innovation, sparked by the events of 2020, and how HealthcarePoint’s platform is revolutionizing the clinical trial process. By enabling pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, and healthcare innovators to share critical competency data, HealthcarePoint ensures regulatory compliance and safety in clinical trials. This data-driven approach not only speeds up essential research but also improves patient outcomes by ensuring the right people are in the right roles at the right time.

    The conversation also explores the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in clinical trials, highlighting how FDA mandates are opening doors for previously underrepresented populations. Tina discusses the unique challenges and opportunities that arise when addressing healthcare needs across different regions, emphasizing that innovation must consider cultural and regional differences.

    One of the most compelling parts of the discussion focuses on stroke care, where HealthcarePoint’s solutions have demonstrated the potential to save up to 45 minutes in treatment time—a difference that could mean full recovery instead of permanent disability. This example underscores how every second counts in healthcare and how data and AI are crucial in saving lives.

  • The way we power the world hasn’t fundamentally changed in decades—until now. In this episode of the Innovation Storyteller Show, I speak with Dr. Moshiel Biton, CEO and co-founder of Addionics, a company reshaping the battery industry with 3D current collector technology.

    Dr. Biton shares his unconventional path into the battery space, reflecting on how the EV revolution has transformed the perception of energy storage. He explains why the fundamental structure of lithium-ion batteries has remained unchanged for over 30 years and how his company is working to overcome the limitations of existing technology. He discusses the challenges of scaling battery innovation while ensuring new solutions integrate seamlessly into existing production lines.

    The conversation also explores the hurdles of securing venture capital for hardware-focused startups and why many investors hesitate to back new battery technologies. Dr. Biton describes how Addionics has navigated these challenges by offering a drop-in solution that enhances performance without requiring massive infrastructure changes.

    Beyond technology, he shares a thought-provoking reflection on the state of the world, envisioning a "peace generator" that could help people recognize the futility of conflict. As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that innovation isn’t just about advancing technology but about shaping the future in a way that benefits everyone.

  • Why do so many groundbreaking ideas stall before they even get started? In this episode of the Innovation Storytellers Podcast, Dr. Stefan Dietrich, Senior Advisor in Innovation and Digital Transformation, exposes the real obstacles that prevent innovation from thriving inside organizations.

    Dr. Dietrich shares his experiences leading digital transformation at Siemens, AXA, and within startups, revealing the cultural and structural hurdles that slow progress. He discusses how middle management—often referred to as "corporate permafrost"—can be one of the biggest roadblocks to change and why the most successful innovators find ways to bypass bureaucracy and go straight to decision-makers.

    We also explore the dangers of complacency, the challenge of proving ROI for disruptive ideas, and why companies that resist innovation put themselves at risk of becoming obsolete. Dr. Dietrich shares firsthand stories of pushing bold ideas through corporate resistance, including lessons from the early days of mobile transformation and the critical role of data in shaping decision-making.

    If you've ever struggled to get leadership buy-in, seen your projects get stuck in endless approval cycles, or been asked to put a visionary idea into an Excel spreadsheet, this episode is for you.

    Tune in to learn how to navigate corporate innovation, avoid the slow death of great ideas, and build a culture that embraces transformation.

  • How do you keep pushing forward when faced with constant setbacks, resistance, or uncertainty? For innovators and leaders, resilience isn't just a nice-to-have—it's essential. But resilience isn't simply enduring; it's about having a plan to navigate challenges and become stronger.

    In this episode of Innovation Storytellers Show, I sit down with Dr. Marie-HĂ©lĂšne Pelletier, an expert in leadership psychology and the author of The Resilience Plan, to break down what it takes to build resilience in today's fast-changing world. MH has spent decades working with executives, entrepreneurs, and high-performing professionals, helping them cultivate the mental agility to thrive amid shifting business landscapes.

    We explore why resilience isn't a personality trait—it's a skill that fluctuates over time and can be strengthened with the right strategies. MH shares the foundational elements of resilience, from the science-backed habits that sustain it to the business-inspired frameworks that help leaders apply it effectively. We also dive into why burnout is so prevalent among innovators and why simply pushing through challenges isn't a sustainable solution.

    Throughout our conversation, MH introduces actionable ways to create a personal Resilience Plan tailored to your unique pressures and priorities. Whether you're leading high-stakes projects, navigating corporate resistance to change, or simply trying to maintain momentum in the face of uncertainty, this episode will give you the tools to build resilience to support your success.

    If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the pressures of leading change, this conversation is for you. MH's insights will help you survive and thrive, even in challenging environments.

    Dr. Pelletier is providing all listeners access to free resources.

  • Innovation is often seen as a function of big ideas and long-term investments, but in today’s fast-changing world, organizations must rethink how they approach problem-solving and experimentation. In this episode, I sit down with Shellery Ebron and Annice Kim from RTI International to discuss how one of the world’s most respected research organizations is embedding innovation into its culture and operations.

    RTI International is known for its groundbreaking research in science, health, and public policy. But what sets RTI apart is its commitment to making innovation a core value, not just an occasional initiative. Shellery and Annice share how RTI has shifted its approach, moving away from traditional, multi-year innovation cycles to a more agile, adaptable framework that allows for quicker experimentation and real-world impact.

    Throughout our conversation, we explore the challenges organizations face when trying to implement innovative ideas. One of the biggest hurdles is inertia—the resistance to change that exists in every industry. Shellery and Annice discuss the importance of storytelling as a tool to overcome resistance, emphasizing that getting buy-in requires painting a vivid picture of the future. Whether talking to business leaders, researchers, or policymakers, framing innovation in a way that speaks to their priorities is key.

    Another critical aspect of RTI’s innovation strategy is breaking down ambitious ideas into smaller, testable projects. Instead of waiting for full funding or a perfect plan, they encourage teams to start with small experiments that confirm key assumptions and build momentum. This step-by-step approach ensures that innovation is not just a one-time effort but a continuous process that drives real change.

    From embedding innovation into corporate values to fostering a culture where experimentation is encouraged, this episode provides a fascinating look at how RTI International is shaping the future of research and social impact. Whether you’re in the public or private sector, there are valuable lessons to be learned from their approach to making innovation a sustainable, organization-wide practice.

  • What if risk management wasn’t just about avoiding failure but enabling innovation?

    In this episode of Innovation Storytellers Show, I sit down with Rose Hall, Former SVP, Head of Innovation, Americas at AXA, to explore the critical role of risk management in pushing innovation forward. While most people see risk and innovation as opposing forces, Rose makes a compelling case for why they need to work together to not only mitigate threats but unlock new markets, products, and business models.

    We dive into why insurance is the safety net beneath some of the world’s most significant innovations and how companies like SpaceX navigate complex, multi-layered risks. The risks associated with cutting-edge advancements are more critical than ever, from cyber threats and climate impact to geopolitical challenges. Traditional insurance models are struggling to keep up, and Rose explains why the industry must evolve to remain relevant.

    The conversation also highlights the challenges of ensuring emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. There isn’t a simple insurance product covering AI, but existing policies may address the damage caused by AI failures. This nuance underscores the need for a more dynamic, forward-thinking approach to risk management that can adapt to the unpredictable nature of modern innovation.

    Another key theme is the power of partnerships. Rose emphasizes that no company can build everything independently, especially in industries where risk and innovation intersect. The real opportunity lies in fostering collaboration between insurers, startups, and large enterprises to create meaningful, scalable solutions.

    This episode challenges the traditional notion of risk management as a roadblock. Instead, Rose frames it as an essential part of progress. Without strong risk strategies, innovation could stall, leaving businesses unable to take the bold leaps necessary for growth.

    Tune in to hear how risk and innovation can work hand in hand to shape the future. If you’ve ever thought of risk as something that slows innovation, this conversation might change your perspective.

  • In this episode of the Innovation Storytellers Show, I sit down with Charlie Chappell, Vice President of Innovation, Research & Development at The Hershey Company, to explore what it takes to innovate in one of the world’s most beloved brands. Charlie’s journey is nothing short of fascinating, from his start in R&D at Kimberly-Clark, earning patents for his work, to shaping iconic brands like Pantene and Old Spice during his time at Procter & Gamble. Now at Hershey, he’s leading the charge to bring bold new ideas to life.

    Charlie opens up about the joys and challenges of innovating in the food and beverage industry, particularly in confectionery. We talk about the creation of Shackalicious, a gummy line launched in collaboration with Shaquille O’Neal, and how Hershey partnered with Shaq to bring his larger-than-life personality into a product that’s flying off the shelves. Charlie also dives into the innovator’s dilemma—how to embrace change, take risks, and adapt without losing sight of what makes a brand iconic.

    This conversation is packed with insights on navigating trends, identifying what’s meaningful versus fleeting, and having the courage to push boundaries—even when it means some ideas won’t work out. If you’re curious about how legacy brands like Hershey stay ahead of the curve and continue to bring joy to millions, this episode is for you.

    Tune in for a sweet discussion filled with inspiration, lessons, and plenty of chocolate. Let’s innovate together!

  • What does it take to build a seamless connection between the agile world of startups and the structured environments of corporate innovators? In this episode of Innovation Storytellers, I had the pleasure of speaking with Trena Blair, Founder & CEO of FD Global Connections, who brought her extensive expertise to the table in exploring how to bridge these two worlds.

    Trena shared insights from her book, Decoding Global Growth: How Successful Companies Scale Internationally, a practical guide for startups scaling across borders. We explored the challenges startups face when moving from the prototype stage to becoming a scale-up, emphasizing the critical importance of resilience within leadership teams and the organizations they build. Trena discussed how the leadership skillset must evolve through the business growth lifecycle, shifting from directive approaches to fostering delegation and teamwork—essential elements for navigating the complexities of scaling.

    We also touched on the cultural dynamics between startups and corporates, a factor that’s often overlooked yet can make or break partnerships. Trena highlighted the challenges of cultural misalignment, sharing an unforgettable story of a startup acquired by IBM and its “blue washing” experience—a 300-line checklist for assimilation into the corporate structure. The anecdote serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance required to preserve innovation while integrating into a larger organization.

    This episode dives deep into the frameworks and strategies needed for startups and corporates to thrive together, including Trena's expert approach to risk management and governance. From assessing a startup’s capacity and capability to understanding cultural nuances and market needs, Trena offers invaluable guidance for leaders on both sides of the partnership.

    What’s the secret to maintaining a startup’s innovative spirit while embracing the structure of a corporate partnership? Listen to this thought-provoking conversation and share your take!

  • Over the holidays, I am reflecting on one of my most downloaded episode of 2024 with my innovation guide and intellectual beacon, Peter Temes.

    In this episode, Peter and I journeyed through the intricacies of turning strategies from mere visions into tangible realities. We dissect the critical elements that transform a company’s strategy into a compelling narrative driven by morals and values, emphasizing the importance of collective belief and action in achieving success. Our discussion sheds light on the delicate balance between setting ambitious goals and the practical execution that brings them to life, underscoring the significance of establishing clear values and allowing the fruits of success to benefit every layer of an organization, especially its customers.

    Join us as we delve into how adopting a collaborative rather than a top-down approach can lead to a more inclusive and impactful innovation strategy. We explore the challenges of instilling a culture that embraces change, drawing parallels with the complexities of updating data and computer systems within dynamic, fast-paced environments. Learn how parallel progress paths can be a strategic approach to fostering a forward-thinking and adaptable organizational culture, even in settings resistant to change.

  • I reflect on my most downloaded episode of 2024 with Louise Agersnap, the Head of WHO Innovation Hub, part of the Digital Health and Innovation Department. We enjoyed a thought-provoking discussion on the transformative initiatives happening at the World Health Organization. With over 20 years of experience in global health development and innovation, Louise brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to the table.

    The conversation kicks off with a reflection on the global health sector's unique challenges and the critical need for innovative solutions. Recognizing this, WHO is empowering its teams to transition seamlessly from ideation to execution, with a nod to Kevin D'Silva and his team at Ideateplus for their role in fostering a culture of innovation.

    Louise shares insights into the LEAD program, a groundbreaking initiative at WHO that empowers staff to drive impactful change through ideation, validation, and implementation. With over 250 ideas generated and 40+ projects in the pipeline, the LEAD program exemplifies the power of collaborative innovation in healthcare.

    The discussion also delves into the role of storytelling in scaling innovation across 194 member states. Louise highlights the Herculean task of communicating and garnering support for innovative ideas globally, offering insights into crafting compelling narratives that inspire collaboration and drive progress.

    We explore the importance of scalability and sustainability in fostering an innovation culture within WHO. With projects spanning 12 to 18 months, maintaining momentum and ensuring long-term impact are key priorities.

  • What does it take to thrive in a world where AI is redefining customer experience and business innovation? On this episode of the Innovation Storytellers Show, I had an incredible conversation with Jim Harris, bestselling author and globally renowned speaker on disruptive innovation, to explore how businesses can adapt to a rapidly evolving future.

    Jim shared his unique journey, from teaching Stephen Covey's principles to becoming one of the most sought-after voices in AI and innovation. Drawing on decades of experience working with organizations like Walmart, IBM, and Barclays, he reflected on the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. From the democratization of AI tools to their transformative impact on industries, Jim offered deep insights into how companies must rethink their approach to innovation.

    One of the standout moments from our discussion was Jim’s story about a group of mainframe managers who, in 1993, couldn’t envision the transformative role of the internet. Fast forward 30 years, and the web is now inseparable from our personal and professional lives. This raises an essential question: How quickly can businesses recognize that the rules of the game have changed, and how do they facilitate the transition to what’s next?

    We also tackled the emotional and practical aspects of AI adoption. With two-thirds of Americans expressing fear about AI, Jim emphasized the importance of education, adaptability, and understanding AI's potential to empower, rather than replace, human capabilities. He also highlighted the importance of continuous learning, citing the World Economic Forum’s findings that workers need an additional 20 days of training annually to keep pace with technological advancements.

  • What role do trust, cultural understanding, and collaboration play in global innovation?

    In this episode of the Innovation Storytellers Show, I sit down with Gökhan Doran, Division VP and General Manager at Corning International, to uncover the keys to navigating the complexities of international manufacturing and partnerships.

    From Brazil to Nigeria, Japan to India, Gökhan shares his journey of building diverse, value-driven collaborations that blend Corning’s innovation in glass science with local expertise and creativity.

    Together, we explore the human resistance to change, the importance of breaking down comfort zones, and the philosophical insights that guide Gökhan’s leadership style. Drawing inspiration from Plato, Gökhan discusses how curiosity, discipline, and a willingness to climb the metaphorical wall of fear have shaped his career and approach to partnerships.

    We also dive into the challenges and opportunities of operating in a global marketplace, from fostering trust in cross-cultural collaborations to ensuring alignment on core values. Gökhan highlights how these synergies drive innovation and long-term growth, transforming partnerships into powerful engines for progress.

    Whether you're leading a global team or looking to expand your business internationally, this conversation offers actionable insights into the art and science of collaboration, innovation, and leadership in a fast-changing world.

  • On this episode of Innovation Storytellers Show, I’m joined by Bobbie Carlton, an award-winning marketing, PR, and social media professional who is transforming the way we think about public speaking, storytelling, and women’s visibility in innovation. As the founder of Carlton PR & Marketing, Mass Innovation Nights, and Innovation Women, Bobbie has dedicated her career to breaking barriers and creating platforms that amplify diverse voices.

    In our conversation, Bobbie shared her fascinating journey from broadcasting to global PR at Cognos and her transition into entrepreneurship. She revealed her passion for storytelling as a catalyst for innovation and her mission to eliminate the all-too-common “manels” (all-male panels) that dominate tech and innovation conferences.

    Through Innovation Women, she’s redefined public speaking as a tool for visibility and career advancement, positioning it as a gateway for women to claim leadership roles, board positions, and career-changing opportunities.

    Bobbie also unpacked the art of memorable storytelling, emphasizing the power of refrains and structure in capturing an audience’s attention. She spoke candidly about the common mistakes speakers make, such as telling overly lengthy or irrelevant stories, and offered actionable advice to start stories closer to their conclusion to maintain impact and clarity.

    We also reflected on our shared roots in PR, reminiscing about the clip books and envelope-stuffing days that shaped our understanding of the evolving communication landscape.

    This conversation is a masterclass in using storytelling as a tool for innovation and a reminder of the importance of making stages more inclusive. How are you using storytelling to spark innovation and amplify voices in your field? Share your thoughts after tuning in!

  • Have you ever wondered what it takes to use creativity to drive global change? In this episode of the Innovation Storyteller Show, I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with AY Young, CEO and flagship artist of the Battery Tour. AY is not your average musician—he’s redefining how we think about performance, energy, and sustainability.

    As someone named one of the UN’s 17 Youth Leaders, AY has taken on the ambitious challenge of aligning his music with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through his Battery Tour, he’s powered over 950 concerts globally using renewable energy while inspiring communities and corporations like General Motors and Samsung to get involved.

    Our conversation dives into AY’s journey, from his early inspiration watching his parents transform their Kansas City neighborhood block by block to his innovative approach to creating music that powers real change. We also explore his groundbreaking Project 17, an album featuring one song for each of the SDGs, created in collaboration with some of the world’s top artists.

    This isn’t just a story about music; it’s about how each of us can be an outlet for change. Tune in to hear AY’s incredible journey, the obstacles he’s faced, and how he’s building a movement that bridges music, sustainability, and innovation.

  • In this episode of the Innovation Storytellers Show, I sit down with Dr. Mark van Rijmenam, a Strategic Futurist and Global Keynote Speaker known for his expertise in emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and the metaverse. Mark and I first connected at the Global Speakers Federation Conference in Bali, where his keynote on digital transformation and the accelerating pace of AI left a lasting impression.

    We kick off our conversation by diving into the rapid evolution of AI and why businesses must adapt swiftly to harness its full potential. Mark explains how tools like Generative AI can drive creativity and productivity, but he also warns that if we aren’t ready to integrate these innovations, we risk falling behind. As the conversation progresses, Mark shares his thoughts on the rise of agentic AI, where intelligent agents collaborate autonomously — a development that’s pushing the boundaries of what AI can achieve today.

    However, it’s not just about AI. Mark sheds light on the untapped potential of blockchain, a technology often misunderstood as just the backbone of cryptocurrencies. He paints a picture of blockchain as the “plumbing” of the future internet, capable of enabling secure, transparent data sharing without compromising control. For Mark, it’s time to move beyond crypto-skepticism and see blockchain as a tool for building trust and collaboration across industries.

    Our discussion takes a fascinating turn as we explore the role of education in this era of exponential change. Mark is candid about his frustrations with our outdated educational systems, which still mirror methods from centuries ago. He argues for a fundamental shift, one that embraces technology and focuses on fostering adaptability and resilience over rote learning.

    Whether you’re an executive, an innovator, or an educator, this episode is packed with actionable insights on how to leverage AI and emerging technologies to stay ahead of the curve. Are you prepared for the exponential pace of change, or will you risk being left behind?

  • What if the most groundbreaking solutions weren’t waiting within your organization’s walls but scattered across industries, continents, and disciplines, just waiting to be tapped? In this episode, I sit down with Kyle Basler-Reeder, ExxonMobil’s Global Open Innovation Lead, to discuss how he’s redefined problem-solving for one of the world’s largest energy companies.

    Kyle shares his unique journey from his early days as a 15-year-old aspiring entrepreneur to spearheading a program that searches far and wide for fresh perspectives on complex challenges. He dives into the methods and philosophies behind ExxonMobil’s open innovation framework, a system he’s crafted to harness creativity from diverse fields like agriculture, aerospace, and even pharmaceuticals.

    Kyle introduces us to what he calls “Level Seven” of open innovation, where ExxonMobil looks to industries far beyond its own, bringing in insights from unexpected sources to tackle persistent and “stubborn” problems. He also reveals the fascinating world of “all-star solvers”—the polymaths who thrive on solving radically different challenges and who bring a Da Vinci-like approach to crowdsourced solutions.

    Listen in as Kyle demystifies the path to open innovation, shares strategies for overcoming internal resistance, and highlights why bringing in “outside minds” has been transformative for ExxonMobil’s innovation journey. Whether you’re looking to jumpstart innovation or tackle longstanding challenges in your own organization, this episode offers practical insights on expanding beyond the familiar and embracing a truly global approach to problem-solving.

  • In this episode of Innovation Storytellers, I sit down with Yaron Flint, author, and seasoned innovation strategist, to explore what it truly takes to drive long-term innovation in today’s dynamic environment. As someone with deep experience spanning automotive, smart materials, environmental, and construction tech, Yaron brings a wealth of insights into how to make innovation strategies a reality within established organizations.

    Yaron argues that no innovation effort can thrive without a champion at the helm—a dedicated advocate who navigates complexities galvanizes support, and keeps the momentum alive. This champion, he explains, must be willing to take calculated risks, champion the cause, and turn passive stakeholders into active supporters. Yaron shares stories from his career on how internal champions, equipped with strategic storytelling and persistence, have driven breakthrough success and garnered buy-in even when facing resistance.

    We also touch on Yaron’s recent achievements, including projects that bridged technologies from unrelated industries to achieve new solutions, like his award-winning environmental project in manufacturing. Yaron provides a glimpse into his methodology for forging partnerships and cross-sector collaborations, emphasizing that a genuine partnership is an ongoing commitment to learning and evolving together.

    As we dive into his book, Innovative Business Development: Implementing Transformation from Within, Yaron offers practical tools for leaders looking to adopt and sustain innovation across sectors, no matter the challenges.

    Tune in to discover why having a champion is essential and learn how cross-cultural and cross-sector experiences can be leveraged to foster innovation that is as profitable as it is transformative. Is your organization ready to make the leap? Listen now and share your thoughts on what it takes to turn innovative ideas into organizational wins.