iNNOVATION Insights Podcast

In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, Dr. Eulanda Sanders welcomes Bridgette Johnson, MS—transformational higher education leader, equity strategist, and founder of "That Bridge."Bridgette shares her inspiring journey from first-generation student to national leader in higher education, and why she is committed to creating equity-centered career pathways that prepare students not only to be “career ready” but also to belong in the workplace truly. Bridgette discusses her 30+ years of impact in higher education, her philosophy of leadership rooted in empathy, listening, and empowerment, and the vision behind "That Bridge"—a consulting firm building intentional connections between higher education and industry.She also shares powerful insights on mentorship, belonging, and supporting mid-career professionals, as well as her upcoming programming with iNNOVATION Insights.⚫ Key topics include:◾Navigating barriers as a Black woman in higher education◾The difference between career readiness and career belonging◾Misconceptions about equity-centered internships and talent development◾How universities can better prepare students for careers◾The vision and mission of That Bridge◾Advice for emerging and mid-career professionals in higher educationBridgette reminds us that innovation is intentional problem-solving across differences, co-creating new ideas that break down barriers and build community.⚫Connect with Bridgette:◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridgette-johnson-4577509/◾That Bridge LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/that-bridge/⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

How does a fashion program bring together students, faculty, and community to create a show that celebrates innovation, artistry, and collaboration? In this episode of INNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders spotlights the team behind Kirkwood Community College’s 2025 “Flourish” Fashion Show: ◾Dr. Elisha Stanley – Program Director and Professor of Apparel Merchandising and Design ◾Stacy Menard – Fashion Show Director ◾Samantha Zaruba – Fashion Show Director ◾Emma Newhouse – Model Coordinator Together, they share the story of how “Flourish” came to life—highlighting the themes of sustainability, innovation, and empowerment that shaped the runway. The conversation delves into the behind-the-scenes work of producing a large-scale student show, the skills students acquire in design, merchandising, and event management, and the lasting impact on both participants and audiences. This episode offers inspiration and insights for students, educators, designers, and anyone passionate about the future of fashion education. ⚫Key topics include: ◾The vision and theme behind Flourish 2025 ◾Building a collaborative fashion program experience ◾Showcasing innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity on the runway ◾Student growth through leadership and hands-on learning ◾How fashion shows prepare graduates for real-world careers The Kirkwood team proves that when creativity and education come together, the results are nothing short of transformative. ⚫Connect with Kirkwood Community College Fashion Program and Our Guests: ◾Website: https://www.kirkwood.edu/programs/degrees/arts-design/apparel-merchandising ◾Dr. Elisha Stanley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/april-elisha-stanley-ph-d-680ba063/ ◾Stacy Menard LinkedIn: N/A ◾Samantha Zaruba LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-zaruba-768bb828b/ ◾Emma Newhouse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-newhouse-130b58263/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

How can higher education better prepare students for the fast-paced, people-centered world of hospitality? In this inspiring episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders speaks with Dr. Valerie Salter—Department Chair, educator, and consultant—about her career journey from working in guest service and fine dining to leading a hospitality program through accreditation and launching innovative experiential learning initiatives. Valerie shares how her industry background has shaped her teaching philosophy, why soft skills and elevator pitches are more important than ever, and how strategic industry partnerships create genuine opportunities for students. She also delves into the process of integrating national industry certifications into coursework, leading international travel experiences, and striking a balance between academic rigor and hands-on training. ⚫Key topics include: ◾Hospitality career pathways and leadership in higher education ◾Designing meaningful experiential learning programs ◾Accreditation success strategies and team collaboration ◾Balancing industry experience with academic standards ◾The power of mentorship and professional networks ◾Innovations in curriculum, including online program development ◾Food safety research in festivals and cultural tourism Whether you are an educator, hospitality professional, or student, this episode offers actionable insights for building programs that prepare graduates for real-world success. ⚫Connect with Valerie ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriesalterphd/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact

How can financial education heal generational trauma and build wealth for future generations? In this powerful episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders speaks with Ray’Chel Wilson — nationally recognized solutionist, financial therapist, educator, and founder of For Our Last Names. Ray’Chel shares her inspiring journey from public health and Teach for America to launching an innovative platform that turns financial trauma into financial traction. From developing the Black Wealth Freedom Workbook Series to building a financial wellness app with an 80%+ positive impact rating, Ray’Chel offers actionable strategies for students, professionals, and organizations to create meaningful change. She also dives into the history and legacy of Tulsa’s Black Wall Street, the science of financial resilience, and her frameworks, like The Pace of Productivity and Money Mindset/Money Moves workshops. ⚫This episode delivers valuable insights on: ◾How to align money values with consistent financial actions ◾Addressing financial trauma and shifting to abundance thinking ◾The role of education, mentorship, and community in economic justice ◾Building resilience through behavioral finance and wellness practices ◾Creating scalable systems for individual and institutional impact Whether you are a first-generation wealth builder, an educator, a corporate leader, or an innovator, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to redefine financial success — for your last name and the generations to come. ⚫Connect with Ray'Chel ◾Personal Website: https://raychelwilson.com/ ◾For Our Last Names Website: https://www.forourlastnames.io/ ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raychelwilson/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

What does it take to create over 1,000 products, sell a company, and keep innovating across multiple industries? In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders sits down with Tiffany Bressan Corbett, an entrepreneur, inventor, photographer, and author whose career spans apparel design, product innovation, photography, and business consulting. From selling earthworms as a child to founding a pioneering bridal and bachelorette product company, Tiffany shares her journey of spotting market gaps, building a brand from the ground up, and navigating the challenges of scaling a business. She opens up about selling her company to a major competitor, pivoting into new ventures, and co-founding inventive products with her husband. ⚫In this episode, you will learn: ◾How to identify pain points and turn them into successful products ◾The role of photography and branding in product development ◾Why persistence, resilience, and networking are keys to entrepreneurial success ◾Strategies for managing multiple creative and business projects ◾The importance of storytelling in branding and marketing ◾Advice for students, aspiring entrepreneurs, and those looking to pivot careers Tiffany’s story is a masterclass in creative thinking, resourcefulness, and bringing bold ideas to life. ⚫Connect with Tiffany ◾Website: https://studio213.net/ ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanycorbett/ ◾Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tiffany.bressancorbett ◾Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/business5tiff_/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

How can our wardrobes tell stories about who we are—and shape the future of fashion?In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders sits down with Colin Behr, founder of The Wardrobe Theory Project and former Nike footwear and color designer, to explore how systems thinking, storytelling, and sustainability intersect in personal style. Colin shares his journey from small-town Iowa to internships at New Balance and Todd Snyder, a decade-long career at Nike and Jordan Brand, and the leap into entrepreneurship with a self-published fashion archive magazine.His work blends design thinking with psychology, sustainability, and personal branding—celebrating the clothes people already own rather than pushing the next purchase.⚫In this conversation, you will learn:◾How systems thinking applies to fashion and personal style◾The process behind curating and photographing a “Top 50” wardrobe◾Insights from working at Nike, Jordan Brand, and across design disciplines◾Why storytelling matters in clothing and branding◾The challenges and rewards of building an independent creative platformWhether you are a designer, innovator, sustainability advocate, or creative entrepreneur, Colin’s story offers inspiration and strategies for merging creativity with purpose.⚫Connect with Colin◾Wardrobe Theory Project: https://wardrobetheoryproject.com/◾Personal Website: https://www.colinjamesbehr.com/◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-behr-24623048/◾Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569072192492◾Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wardrobe_theory_project/⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

Join host Dr. Eulanda Sanders on Innovation Insights for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Amy Shane-Nichols, an educator, leader, and innovator with over three decades of experience in retail, brand management, and academia. From her early career in department stores and Harley-Davidson retail leadership to her current role at the University of Wyoming, Dr. Nichols shares how her journey shaped her expertise in consumer behavior, branding, product development, and experiential learning. ⚫In this episode, you will learn about: ◾The evolution of retail and the rise of experiential shopping ◾Insights into brand identity, consumer loyalty, and symbolic expression through dress ◾The influence of technology, e-commerce, and AI in retail and branding ◾Building and mentoring strong teams with compassion and innovation ◾Her groundbreaking research on Harley-Davidson female riders and consumer subcultures ◾The importance of resilience, adaptability, and innovation for students and professionals Whether you are a designer, educator, entrepreneur, or business leader, this episode will give you practical insights into navigating change, building strong brands, and shaping the future of retail and education. ⚫Connect with Amy ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-shane-nichols-phd-6723b330/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

What does it mean to create art in the “middle of nowhere”? In this captivating episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders reconnects with Jennifer Rife, a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans fiber art, basketry, photography, and site-specific land installations. Jennifer shares her winding creative journey—from her childhood in Lamar, Colorado, to her years as a graphic designer, exhibition coordinator, and creator of thought-provoking outdoor installations. Jennifer discusses her concept of the “middle of nowhere,” how it connects to geography and personal experience, and why she documents her work using GPS coordinates. She dives into the transformative power of the flow state, the importance of curiosity, and how unexpected inspirations—like early childhood memories, caves with petroglyphs, and the Spiral Jetty—have shaped her artistic vision. ⚫This episode is a must-listen for artists, educators, and innovators interested in: ◾Tapping into flow for creative breakthroughs ◾The process behind creating and photographing land installations ◾Blending traditional artistry with experimental approaches ◾Finding inspiration in geography, memory, and everyday objects ◾Encouraging audiences to ask questions rather than seek answersJennifer’s advice to emerging artists? Be bold, embrace failure, and follow the ideas that feel “ripe.” ⚫Connect with Jennifer ◾Website: https://artinthemiddleofnowhere.com/ ◾Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WYjennifer.rife ◾Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artinthemiddleofnowhere/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact

How can diverse career experiences shape a leader’s approach to innovation and mentorship?In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders speaks with Adeola Sokunbi, a visionary program manager, educator, and entrepreneur whose career spans hospitality, sports, entertainment, technology, and law.From her Nigerian upbringing to working with Coca-Cola during the London 2012 Olympics, Adeola shares her journey of seizing opportunities, navigating transitions, and embracing lifelong learning. She opens up about her pivot into law and technology, her commitment to networking and professional development, and her passion for bridging educational gaps through co-founding the CHEF Academy in Atlanta.⚫This conversation is packed with insights for young professionals, educators, and industry innovators on:◾Building a career across multiple industries◾The power of networking and continuous education◾How mentorship fuels innovation and career success◾Creating educational programs that address real-world needs◾Lessons from leading in hospitality, law, tech, and beyondWhether you are just starting your career or seeking to expand into new industries, Adeola’s story offers practical strategies for growth, adaptability, and impact.⚫Connect with Adeola:◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adeolasokunbi/◾The Navigate Program website: https://navigatefoundation.org/◾CHEF Academy website: https://www.chefacademyatl.com/◾AYO Consulting Website: https://www.ayoconsultingco.com/⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

Dr. Nicole Yeldell Butts, a leader in organizational transformation with over 25 years of experience in diversity, equity, inclusion, human resources, and organizational change, discusses the motivations and pivotal moments leading her to a career in HR, the challenges HR professionals face, particularly during seismic events like the 2020 pandemic and racial reckoning, and how these experiences shaped her approach to leadership and DEI.She introduces her 'Shift Framework'—an innovative and practical roadmap to align stated organizational values with actual lived behaviors. Dr. Butts also provides valuable insights into personal branding, innovation, and the continuous journey towards meaningful cultural change within organizations.⚫Connect with Nicole◾Website: https://www.nicolebutts.com◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nlyeldell/⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://innovation-insights.mykajabi.com/signup⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/W5HCHpg4zFNU6jIpunx7

Dr. Jokima Hiller, a distinguished figure in the hospitality industry with an MBA and CHE certification, shares her incredible journey from her early fascination with hotels as an 'army brat' to becoming a general manager, moving into academia, and ultimately becoming an innovator in hospitality education. Jokima also discusses her personal transformation after becoming an amputee and how she found strength in her prosthesis, affectionately named Sabrina Latrice Louise. Learn about Jokima’s innovative approaches to hospitality, her entrepreneurial ventures, and her passionate advocacy for social intelligence in management. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that delves deep into the heart of innovation and personal resilience. ⚫Connect with Jokima ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jokimahiller/ ◾Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6m8c9d3BBUKJIqarRBLk1M?si=d52f4581cbf84cb2 ◾Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B004YTGI7W/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=ee681c65-838f-4adf-93fc-88cf31b64bbb&ref_=ap_rdr&ccs_id=562fb630-4bd7-4246-84c1-4fb00fe82db7 ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://innovation-insights.mykajabi.com/signup ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

Welcome to another insightful episode of Innovation Insights! Join host Dr. Eulanda Sanders as she sits down with Richard Blank, CEO of Costa Rica's Call Center and a division of Cheyenne Consultants. Richard's journey from Northeast Philadelphia to leading a thriving call center in Costa Rica is dynamic and inspiring. Tune in to hear about his early ventures, his passion for linguistics, and his innovative approach to business. Richard shares invaluable tips on communication, building a strong company culture, and the importance of ethics and planning in entrepreneurship. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a business veteran, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice. ⚫Connect with Richard ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/costaricascallcenter/ ◾Website: https://costaricascallcenter.com/en/costa-ricas-call-center-2/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://innovation-insights.mykajabi.com/signup ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

Dr. Asia Lyons, the founder and lead designer of Lyons Educational Consulting, shares her journey from aspiring chemical engineer to impactful educator and consultant. She discusses her research on racial battle fatigue, her efforts to support Black educator wellness, and the importance of creating inclusive environments. Dr. Lyons also emphasizes the need for community, self-care, and systemic change in education. Tune in to learn about her initiatives, including the Black Educator Wellness Cohort, and her podcast, 'The Exit Interview,' which highlights the stories of Black educators who have left the field. Don't miss this inspiring conversation filled with insights, personal stories, and actionable advice for supporting Black educators. ⚫Connect with Asia ◾Website: https://www.lyonseducationalconsulting.com/ ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://innovation-insights.mykajabi.com/signup ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

Jim Simon, a visionary in 3D design and digital fashion technology, shares his beginnings as a traditional artist to becoming an academic lead at CLO Jim discusses his journey, insights, and the transformative impact of 3D technology on the fashion industry. This episode covers the importance of blending traditional artistry with digital innovation, the environmental benefits of CLO 3D, and strategic advice for young designers and educators. Perfect for designers, educators, and innovators looking to embrace technology as a tool for creativity and sustainability.⚫Connect with Jim ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimsimonclo3d/ ◾TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cloprofessorjim ◾CLO Website: https://www.clovirtualfashion.com/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://innovation-insights.mykajabi.com/signup ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

Join host Dr. Eulanda Sanders on this episode of Innovation Insights as we explore the innovative world of Dr. Shannon Coleman, an associate professor and extension specialist at Louisiana State University. Delve into the cutting-edge research and creative processes shaping the industries' future. ⚫Connect with Shannon ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-coleman-b214a992/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://innovation-insights.mykajabi.com/signup ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders sits down with Hillary Glenn Riley, a renowned knitwear designer whose work has significantly influenced the outdoor and activewear industry. They discuss Hillary's journey from a passionate art student to a contract designer and now a senior knitwear designer at SmartWool. Hilary shares her early inspirations, experience with prestigious internships, and insights into the evolving world of knitwear design. They delve into the challenges and opportunities in performance apparel, the impact of new technologies like 3D modeling and AI, and the need for sustainability in the fashion industry. Hilary also discusses her entrepreneurial venture, Glenn and Glenn, which she co-founded with her sister, Jillian Glenn Altman, and their journey through launching a contemporary workwear brand. This conversation is packed with valuable advice for aspiring designers and offers a deep dive into the world of knitwear and fashion innovation. ⚫Connect with Hillary ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hillary-glenn-riley-09348bb/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://innovation-insights.mykajabi.com/signup ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

Dr. Godwin-Charles Ogbeide, a renowned strategist, analyst, and hospitality and tourism leadership development expert, shares his journey from a pre-med student to becoming a distinguished leader in hospitality. He discusses the essence of effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of inspiration, effective communication, and active listening. Godwin-Charles introduces the concept of 'hospitality intelligence' and explains how it can be applied in hospitality and across various industries.⚫Connect with Godwin-Charles ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-godwin-charles-ogbeide-5b2a6840/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://innovation-insights.mykajabi.com/signup⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

In this episode of the iNNOVATION Insights Podcast, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders interviews Liz Spencer, the founder of Bridal by SHL. Liz shares her journey from a passion for art and creativity to establishing her bridal fashion business in the Kansas City area. She discusses overcoming personal challenges, the inspiration behind her business, and her commitment to inclusivity and body positivity. Liz also highlights the importance of care and empathy in her business philosophy and provides insights into her innovative approach to bridal fashion. Get ready to be inspired by Liz's story of determination, creativity, and kindness in the bridal fashion world. ⚫Connect with Liz ◾Website: https://www.bridalbyshl.com/ ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-spencer-525a317a/ ◾Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bridalbyshl ◾Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridalbyshl ◾Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/bridalbyshl/ ◾TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bridalbyshl ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://innovation-insights.mykajabi.com/signup⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders engages in a compelling conversation with Dr. Sarah L. Rodriguez, Associate Professor of Engineering Education at Virginia Tech. Dr. Rodriguez shares her journey from being a Gates Millennium Scholar in high school to becoming a prominent academic. They discuss the importance of mentorship throughout her educational path, highlighted by her relationship with her advisor during her PhD at the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Rodriguez emphasizes the significance of setting boundaries in academia, building a brand, and collaborating within her community. ⚫Connect with Sarah ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-l-rodriguez-74350812/ ◾Website: sarahlrodriguez.com ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://innovation-insights.mykajabi.com/signup ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders welcomes Dr. Erin French, an educator, instructional designer, and historian dedicated to advancing quality education globally. Dr. French shares his fascinating journey from a love for history and art to becoming a quilt-making expert. He discusses his research on men who quilt, exploring their motivations and the societal stigmas they face. The conversation also highlights the importance of global citizenship, the value of incorporating historical context into innovation, and actionable steps to support diverse participation in the textile arts.Tune in for an inspiring look at the unexpected intersections between material culture, gender, and education. ⚫Connect with Erinn ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eefrench/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://innovation-insights.mykajabi.com/signup