The Innovation Show

Framing is a cognitive muscle we can strengthen to improve our lives, work and future. Today’s book shows us how.” We heartily welcome back the author of "Framers: Make Better Decisions In The Age of Big Data", Kenneth Cukier Find Kenneth here: http://www.cukier.com @kncukier https://www.economist.com/books-and-arts/2021/05/11/imaginative-framing-is-the-key-to-problem-solving

Framing is a cognitive muscle we can strengthen to improve our lives, work and future. Today’s book shows us how.” We welcome the author of Framers: Make Better Decisions In The Age of Big Data Kenneth Cukier Find Kenneth here: http://www.cukier.com @kncukier https://www.economist.com/books-and-arts/2021/05/11/imaginative-framing-is-the-key-to-problem-solving  

Seth Godin - This  Is Strategy | The Innovation Show   Join us on this episode of The Innovation Show with the inimitable Seth Godin, author of 21 international bestsellers that have profoundly influenced the way we think about work and art. In this engaging conversation, Seth delves into his latest book on strategy, emphasizing the importance of identifying your smallest viable audience, understanding and leveraging systems, and prioritizing long-term thinking over instant gratification. He shares valuable insights on why most people gravitate towards instructions rather than forging their own paths, the concept of 'elegant strategy,' and how viewing challenges as a game can make failures more manageable. Seth also explores the impact of AI on the workforce and the significance of systems in shaping our strategies. Whether you're transforming an industry, sparking a movement, or building a career, this episode is a must-listen for change-makers and innovators.   00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:19 Seth Godin on Teaching and Strategy 02:21 The Lego Metaphor and Strategy 04:54 Games, Systems, and Empathy 07:34 AI and Office Plankton 11:11 Understanding Systems and Change 16:10 Innovation and Elegant Strategies 21:47 The Role of Incremental Improvement vs. Innovation 24:00 Innovation Theater and Real Change 36:25 Long-term Thinking and Strategy 42:15 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Eric von Hippel  - Free User Innovation | The Innovation Show In this new series on The Innovation Show, we dive into the groundbreaking work of Eric von Hippel, MIT Sloan School professor and pioneer of free innovation. We explore how users—not just producers—drive transformative innovations, and how this paradigm has been overlooked historically. With intriguing examples such as the evolution of skateboards and center pivot irrigation systems, von Hippel illustrates the power of user-driven innovation. We also discuss the role of platforms like Wazoku and companies like Haier in harnessing the potential of free innovator communities. Eric shares his insights on how companies can leverage these external ideas and improve their own innovation processes. Don't miss this fascinating conversation on the untapped potential within each of us to innovate and create impactful solutions. 00:00 Introduction and Wazoku Acknowledgment 00:38 Meet Eric von Hippel 02:08 The Concept of Free Innovation 02:32 Historical Context and User Innovation 04:20 Examples of User Innovation 11:19 Crowdsourcing and Open Platforms 16:44 Challenges and Opportunities in Innovation 33:56 Altruism and Diffusion in Innovation 37:31 Open vs. Free Innovation 39:54 Conclusion and Resources   Find Wazoku https://www.wazoku.com   Find Eric von Hippel's resources including this book “Free Innovation” https://evhippel.mit.edu/books/

Inside the Jar: Navigating Change and Innovation   In this week's Thursday Thought, we delve into the complexities of navigating change from within. Using quotes, research, and insights from the Innovation Show, we explore how our perception of individuality vs. being part of a larger whole affects our ability to adapt. Drawing parallels with superorganisms like beehives, the episode discusses how business and economic cycles, like Kondratiev waves, shape our world. Highlighting examples from companies like Sony, we examine the 'inside view' trap and the importance of stepping outside our immediate focus to see the bigger picture. Join us as we read the label from outside the jar and prepare for the future.   00:00 Introduction: Navigating Change from Within 00:57 The Human Condition: A Drop in the Ocean 01:22 The Beehive as a Superorganism 04:18 Kondratieff Cycles: Understanding Economic Waves 06:27 The Trap of the Inside View 10:20 Escaping the Jar: Embracing Change 12:32 Conclusion: Join Us at The Reinvention Summit   Full article here: https://thethursdaythought.substack.com/p/its-hard-to-read-the-label-from-inside

In this episode of The Innovation Show, Aiden McCullen interviews Byron Reese, author of 'We Are Agora: How Humanity Functions as a Single Super Organism that Shapes Our World and Our Future.' The discussion delves into Byron's groundbreaking Agora Theory, which suggests that humans may function as part of a larger, conscious superorganism. Topics include the origins of life, the emergence of multicellular organisms, the complexity of DNA, and the potential impacts of understanding life as part of this collective superorganism. The conversation also touches on the role of death, the concept of emergence, and how these insights can apply to organizational strategies and societal progress.   00:00 Introduction to Agora Theory 02:40 Understanding Superorganisms 04:06 The Origin of Life and Cells 19:53 The Mystery of DNA 30:07 Understanding Multicellular Life 32:09 Symbiosis and Multicellular Origins 33:39 Theories of Multicellular Life 38:12 The Universe and Life's Complexity 44:02 DNA: The Blueprint of Life 47:11 Human Evolution and Intelligence 49:41 Bottleneck Events and Human Survival 55:02 Emergence and Superorganisms 57:46 Final Thoughts and Reflections   Links Aidan mentioned in the episode: Men In Black sequence: https://youtu.be/OKnpPCQyUec?si=KSGb25FeP72Nvi7T Family Guy: https://youtu.be/7et6-nByfw8?si=6zIfUIQE1XlFL-oH   Byron Reese: https://byronreese.com

In the second part of our 'Energy Rising' series, host Aiden McCullen welcomes back Dr. Julia DiGangi, a renowned neuropsychologist and author of 'Energy Rising: The Neuroscience of Leading with Emotional Power'. Dr. DiGangi delves into her eight transformative codes designed to help us navigate challenges both in and out of the workplace. This episode focuses on the first two codes: transforming emotional pain into power, and building your power pattern by harnessing the brain's pattern recognition abilities. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to deal with emotional struggles, the impact of words and emotions on our brain, and strategies to create meaningful change in life and leadership. Don't miss out on the chance to win a copy of Dr. DiGangi's acclaimed book. Subscribe to the Innovation Show's Substack for your chance to win!   00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:41 The Eight Codes Overview 02:05 Code One: Transforming Emotional Pain into Power 04:03 The Importance of Emotional Energy 04:28 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Misunderstanding 08:05 The Role of Emotional Patterns 15:03 Code Two: Building Your Power Pattern 22:28 Identifying Patterns and Changing Them 23:36 The Brain's Primitive Interpretations 24:40 Personal Story: Overcoming Sports Challenges 27:47 The Power of Leadership and Creation Energy 30:02 The Meaning Making Machine: Trauma and Success 31:48 The Power of Words and Emotions 38:26 Becoming the Emotional Standard 44:08 Magnetic Leadership and Human Connection 45:27 Conclusion and Contact Information   Find Julia here: https://drjuliadigangi.com   Win a copy by signing up to our Substack here:  https://thethursdaythought.substack.com   Hidden Messages of water and the power of sound: https://youtu.be/Fn73Pgk8GGc?si=lnB4AiKS8F5WnsO1   Power of Words: https://youtu.be/Ctoj0Vy5ICo?si=ipgueuFMd9ISl_LO

In this episode, we are joined by neuropsychologist and author Dr. Julia DiGangi, who discusses her book 'Energy Rising: The Neuroscience of Leading with Emotional Power.' Dr. DiGangi reveals eight powerful codes to effectively navigate challenges and shares transformative stories from business leaders, parents, couples, and combat veterans. Learn about the concept of emotions as real neurological energy, how mastering emotional intelligence can change your leadership game, and the importance of embracing difficult emotions to achieve personal and professional growth. Don't miss the opportunity to grab a copy of Dr. DiGangi's book by signing up for our Innovation Show Substack. This conversation is a profound exploration of how our nervous system regulates our life experiences and practical steps to turn emotional pain into power.   00:00 Introduction to Emotional Energy 00:44 Meet Julia DiGangi 01:03 Understanding Emotions as Energy 02:21 The Power of Emotional Intelligence 06:19 Emotional Pain vs. Emotional Power 06:56 Navigating Uncertainty and High Emotions 18:47 The Concept of Self Division 28:56 Leadership and Emotional Energy 35:34 Exploring Ineffective Extrinsic Rewards 36:09 Addressing Leadership Engagement 37:01 Understanding Emotional Contagion 38:08 The Role of Leadership in Emotional Pain 39:43 The Power of Authentic Leadership 41:18 Navigating Uncertainty and Self-Trust 42:53 The Brain as a Pattern Detection Machine 49:15 The Impact of Overworking and Overgiving 53:44 The Importance of Clarity and Connection 01:05:21 Final Thoughts and Call to Action   Find Julia here: https://drjuliadigangi.com   Win a copy by signing up to our Substack here:  https://thethursdaythought.substack.com

Navigating Organizational Transitions with Stan Deetz  In this episode, we cap off a brilliant year of growth with the insightful Stan Deetz, author of 'Leading Organizations Through Transitions'. Stan shares his expertise on managing change within organizations, focusing on technological disruptions, mergers and acquisitions, and the intricate dynamics of power shifts. We dive deep into the effects of AI on organizational structures, the concept of tacit knowledge, and the adjustments required for a healthy and resilient workforce. Stan also discusses the importance of humility and measurement in driving successful change, with practical advice on maintaining the delicate balance between efficiency and adaptability. Join us for an engaging conversation that offers valuable lessons for navigating complex organizational transitions. 00:00 Introduction and Recap 00:43 New Books and Projects 01:50 Technological Disruption and Organizational Change 03:09 The Sophomoric Effect and AI Challenges 04:44 AI's Impact on Knowledge Workers 06:17 Bias and Vigilance in AI Systems 09:05 Tacit Knowledge and Organizational Expertise 29:45 Forms, Data, and Organizational Decisions 39:14 Understanding the Impact of Our Products 39:53 Leadership and Institutional Knowledge 40:31 Navigating Organizational Transitions 41:56 The Myth of Stable Environments 43:56 The Importance of Diversity and Systems 47:43 Challenges of Short-Term Measurements 50:10 The Value of Long-Term Organizational Health 01:04:47 Cultural Sensitivity in Multinational Operations 01:11:02 The Need for Customization in Management 01:13:43 Starting Organizational Change with Humility 01:17:03 Personal and Organizational Growth   Find Stan here:    www.standeetz.org

Corporate Explorer Fieldbook Finale: Leadership, AI, and Open Innovation In the concluding episode of the Corporate Explorer Fieldbook series, we reflect on insights and contributions from various industry experts throughout 2024. We'll delve into the necessity of leadership for scaling innovation and explore the transformative potential of AI. Joined by Andy Binns and Eugene Ivanov, we discuss the evolution of the corporate explorer concept, emphasize the importance of a supportive network, and highlight Wazoku's role in pioneering total innovation. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the future of corporate exploration and the pivotal role of leadership and technological advancements.   00:00 Introduction and Gratitude 01:26 Preface and Genesis of the Book 02:25 Challenges and Insights in Corporate Exploration 08:37 The Role of AI in Corporate Exploration 11:11 Open Innovation and Ecosystems 16:47 Leadership and Scaling 23:16 Conclusion and Future Directions  

Honoring Charles Handy: Wisdom on Innovation, Leadership, and Life   In this episode, we pay tribute to the late Charles Handy, an influential philosopher, storyteller, and thought leader. The host re-releases a special episode recorded at Handy's London home following his stroke. Despite his condition, Handy remained impressively positive, attributing his enhanced creativity to his impairment. He shares profound insights on various concepts like the 'white stone,' 'citizenship within organizations,' and his famous 'shamrock organization.' Handy emphasizes the importance of making changes before they become critical and inspires with his reflections on challenging orthodoxy, dreaming big, and understanding leadership versus management. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom on how to navigate and innovate in both personal and organizational spheres.   00:00 Remembering Charles Handy 01:33 Introduction to the Second Curve 02:37 The Concept of the Second Curve 04:32 Davy's Bar and the Importance of Change 09:50 Personal Stories and Life Lessons 18:54 The Three Selves and Identity 36:03 Leadership vs. Management 39:56 The Shamrock Organization 42:13 Citizenship in Organizations 45:36 Efficiency vs. Effectiveness 48:31 The Donut Theory 54:52 Final Thoughts and Legacy

Explore how innovative leadership principles and storytelling can transform personal and professional growth with 3M's Chief Science Advocate, Jayshree Seth. In this episode of The Innovation Show, Jayshree shares memorable acrostics and blueprints for success from her trio of books, discusses key elements of effective leadership, and delves into the importance of advocacy and diverse perspectives. Gain insights on balancing long-term vision with detailed execution and the role of positive emotions in fostering a creative and innovative environment.   00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 02:34 The Importance of Leadership 04:31 Leak Proof Leadership Explained 09:01 The Role of Storytelling in Innovation 11:08 The Five I's of Innovation 17:01 Advocacy and Leadership 22:24 Supervisory Skills and Employee Relationships 27:13 The Future is Already Here 28:35 Understanding Trends and Megatrends 30:35 The TNT Factor: Trends, Needs, Threats 31:24 Exploring the TREND Mnemonic 35:14 Bridging the Business-Technical Gap 41:39 Effective Leadership Communication 50:54 The Kaleidoscope of Leadership 56:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Jayshree previously on the show: https://youtu.be/Gc8PKq56Lrw?si=ApxhFl1mXM9K0b3T innovation, Jayshree Seth, 3M, Chief Science Advocate, engineering, empathy, collaboration, patents, creativity, storytelling, visionary leadership, purpose-driven leadership, resilience, engineering innovation, STEM, scientific advocacy, women in science, leadership strategies

The AI Battle Mirrors Past Format Wars “History never repeats itself, but it does often rhyme.” — Mark Twain [TLDR: This week’s Thursday Thought explores the ongoing battle for AI dominance among tech giants like OpenAI, Anthropic, X, Google, and Microsoft, drawing parallels to historic format wars that have shaped various industries. From the iconic VHS vs. Betamax struggle to the intense competition between gaming consoles like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo, and the enduring rivalry between iPhone and Android, these conflicts reveal a recurring pattern. As AI companies follow similar paths, it’s clear that, while technology evolves, the strategic dynamics remain strikingly similar.] The current battle for dominance between tech giants like OpenAI, Google, Anthropic and Microsoft is not just a race to the top — it’s a modern-day format war. By examining the patterns of previous technology battles, we can gain insight into how this AI competition is likely to play out. Three key patterns emerge from past format battles that are now being mirrored in the AI space: The Power of Network Effects: Just like previous format wars, the AI battle will be heavily influenced by network effects. (A network effect occurs when a product or service becomes more valuable as more people use it, creating a positive feedback loop that can lead to rapid growth and market dominance.) The Underdog Advantage: History has shown that the winner is often not the one everyone expects — not the biggest company or even the best product. Early market leaders may fall behind as more adaptable or better-networked competitors take the lead. Ecosystem Building is Key: The final battleground is not just the technology itself, but the entire ecosystem built around it. Companies that successfully create a thriving ecosystem of developers, partners, and content will probably emerge as the ultimate winners. To understand these dynamics better, let’s revisit three strategic battles that shaped the technology landscape: the VCR format war, the console wars, and the smartphone OS wars. Each of these battles offers valuable lessons for understanding the current AI competition. The VCR War: A Template for Format Battles (The also-rans in the VCR war (that I know of) included Philips and Grundig’s Video 2000 (V2000), and RCA’s Capacitance Electronic Disc (CED). The videotape format war between VHS and Betamax in the late 20th century stands as one of the most emblematic battles over technological dominance. Introduced in the mid-1970s, Sony’s Betamax initially captivated the market with its superior video quality and compact design. However, JVC’s VHS, which entered the market shortly after, quickly emerged as a formidable competitor by addressing consumer needs more effectively with longer recording times — up to two hours initially, which was soon extended to four, six, and even eight hours as the technology developed. The success of VHS was not solely because of its technical merits. JVC employed a strategic approach by licensing its VHS technology to an array of manufacturers, including heavyweights like Panasonic, Sharp, and RCA. This move flooded the market with VHS players, making the format more accessible to the average consumer. To further tip the scale in their favour, during the mid-1970s JVC established VCR supply relationships with leading national consumer electronics companies in Europe and the United States. In supplying Thomson, Thorn, and Telefunken (all independent companies at that time) as well as U.S. partners, JVC was able to gain the cash and the diversity of market experience that ultimately enabled it to outpace Philips and Sony. Philips developed videotape competencies in parallel with JVC, but it failed to build a worldwide network of OEM relationships that would have allowed it to accelerate the refinement of its videotape competence through the sale of core products. According to an article from Legacybox, by the mid-1980s, VHS had achieved a 60% market share in the U.S., with over 30 million homes owning a VHS player. Hollywood’s role in this battle was also pivotal. Movie studios, recognising the growing popularity of VHS, began releasing their films primarily on this format. Movie studios partly influenced this decision because VHS tapes could hold entire movies without requiring multiple tapes — a common issue with the shorter Betamax tapes. Video rental stores like Blockbuster overwhelmingly supported VHS because of its broader availability and the convenience of longer playtimes. A self-perpetuating cycle emerged — a classic example of a network effect: the increased availability of content on VHS led to higher consumer demand for VHS players, which further solidified the format’s dominance. The death blow for Betamax occurred when RCA, one of the largest electronics companies in the United States, backed VHS. RCA’s decision, coupled with a strong marketing push, helped VHS capture an even larger share of the market. By the late 1980s, despite Betamax’s technical superiority, Sony had to concede defeat. Sony eventually began producing VHS players, marking the end of the format war. The Console Wars: The Battle for Gamers’ Hearts The console wars between Sony’s PlayStation, Microsoft’s Xbox, and Nintendo highlight how the best product doesn’t always win. Sony’s PlayStation and Microsoft’s Xbox fought fiercely over processing power and exclusive titles, but Nintendo carved out its niche with innovative gameplay and a focus on casual gamers. Each company’s success depended not only on the hardware but also on the ecosystem of games and online services they built.(Also rans, I know of included: Sega Saturn, Sega Dreamcast, Atari Jaguar, and NEC TurboGrafx-16). In the wake of the VCR format war, the gaming industry experienced its own version of a format battle, known as the console wars. This battle, primarily between Sony’s PlayStation, Microsoft’s Xbox, and Nintendo, has defined the gaming industry for decades. Each of these companies has sought to establish its console as the dominant platform, employing strategies that echo the VHS-Betamax rivalry. Sony entered the gaming market in 1994 with the PlayStation, which quickly became a dominant force because of its powerful hardware and an extensive library of exclusive games. Titles like “Final Fantasy” and “Gran Turismo” attracted millions of gamers to the PlayStation ecosystem, establishing Sony as a leader in the industry. Microsoft joined the fray in 2001 with the launch of the Xbox. The Xbox was innovative with its built-in storage and the introduction of Xbox Live, a comprehensive online gaming service that revolutionised multiplayer gaming. Microsoft also secured the exclusive rights to “Halo,” which became a defining franchise for the console and significantly boosted its popularity. Nintendo, a veteran in the gaming industry, pursued a different path. While Sony and Microsoft competed on hardware performance and exclusive titles, Nintendo focused on creating unique gaming experiences. The Nintendo 64 and GameCube had their own dedicated followings, but it was the Wii, launched in 2006, that truly set Nintendo apart. The Wii’s innovative motion controls and broad appeal to casual gamers made it a global phenomenon, outselling both the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in several markets. The console wars mirror the VHS-Betamax battle in that the competition wasn’t just about selling hardware; it was about creating a compelling ecosystem. Sony and Microsoft invested heavily in securing exclusive games, building online communities, and expanding their platforms. Meanwhile, Nintendo focused on innovation in gameplay, drawing in a diverse audience that included non-traditional gamers. The Smartphone Wars: iPhone vs. Android (The smartphone OS wars, primarily between Apple’s iPhone and Google’s Android, show the power of ecosystem building. Apple’s closed, tightly integrated ecosystem appeals to a loyal base, while Android’s open platform and wide availability have made it the dominant mobile OS worldwide. This battle underscores how creating a broad and adaptable ecosystem can lead to long-term dominance.) (Also rans included: BlackBerry OS, Windows Mobile/Windows Phone, Symbian, Palm OS/Garnet OS/webOS, and Tizen). The smartphone industry has also witnessed a fierce format war, this time between Apple’s iPhone and Google’s Android (also rans included Nokia’s Symbian). Apple revolutionized the mobile phone market in 2007 with the launch of the iPhone, which combined sleek design, intuitive touch controls, and an app ecosystem that redefined what a smartphone could be. The iPhone quickly became a status symbol and set the standard for mobile devices. Google’s Android, launched shortly after, took a different approach. Rather than producing its own hardware, Google made Android an open-source operating system that could be used by any manufacturer. This strategy led to a flood of Android devices from companies like Samsung, LG, and Motorola, covering a wide range of price points and appealing to a broad audience. Much like VHS, Android’s strategy of widespread availability helped it capture significant market share. By offering a variety of devices at different price points, Android became the dominant mobile platform worldwide, despite Apple’s continued success with the iPhone in the premium segment. The iPhone vs. Android battle still rages on, with each platform boasting its own loyal following, exclusive apps, and unique features. Apple’s closed ecosystem allows for tight integration and a seamless user experience, while Android’s open platform offers more flexibility and customisation, catering to a diverse range of users. The AI Wars: Following a Familiar Pattern The key players in the AI format war include OpenAI (GPT series), Google(Bard), Microsoft (Copilot and Azure AI), Anthropic (Claude), Meta (LLaMA series), and Elon Musk’s xAI ,

Gold Crushes Ants, Ill-Fitting Robes and Disruption's Power Redistribution Aidan McCullen: [00:00:00] Gold Crushes Ants, Ill-Fitting Robes and The Power Redistribution of Disruption. Just a brief reminder of what this episode is in case you have not heard it before.. Each week I write a newsletter called The Thursday Thought. For years, listeners to the Innovation Show have asked me to narrate it. I never had enough time. So today, I am using AI. I have cloned my voice. It is not perfect, but it saves me hours of effort. For those who want the short version. Here is a paragraph: Disruption redistributes organisational power, information and status. As Machiavelli noted, those in power dislike such change. However, there is a twist to this week’s Thursday Thought. Sometimes, the new-found power does not sit well with those who inherit it, to their detriment and to that of the organisation. Gold Crushes Ants! Let's begin with a quote by Plato from "The Republic." Plato wrote: "But when the cobbler or any other man [00:01:00] whom nature designed to be a trader, having his heart lifted up by wealth or strength or the number of his followers, or any like advantage, attempts to force his way into the class of warriors, or a warrior into that of legislators and guardians, for which he is unfitted, and either to take the implements or the duties of the other; or when one man is trader, legislator, and warrior all in one, then I think you will agree with me in saying that this interchange and this meddling of one with another is the ruin of the State." This passage from Plato's The Republic expresses the idea that societal roles should be distinct and specialised to ensure the stability and well-being of the state. Plato argues that each individual has a natural aptitude and should perform the role suited to their abilities. The cobbler (a metaphor for any tradesperson), the warrior, and the legislator/guardian represent different classes in society. Plato believes that problems arise when individuals try to take on roles for which they are [00:02:00] not naturally suited or when they attempt to accumulate power by combining multiple roles. For example, if a cobbler tries to become a warrior or a warrior tries to become a legislator, it disrupts the social order and leads to chaos and ruin. This concept is part of Plato's broader vision of a just society, where everyone contributes according to their strengths and society functions smoothly as a result. The Power Shift. Let's take for example, the significant shift in power that occurred in many organisations due to the advent of digital technology. The rise of roles such as heads of digital, data, AI and E.S.G. transformed traditional industries, from media companies to physical retailers. These new roles require a different set of skills, mindsets and perspectives, often leading to friction within long-held hierarchies. In many traditional organisations, digital leaders face resistance similar to what Plato described. Established professionals, [00:03:00] akin to the warriors and legislators in The Republic, often see these newcomers as threats to their traditional roles and authority. This resistance can be rooted in a fear of obsolescence or a reluctance to adapt to new methods and technologies. For instance, the introduction of digital journalism revealed how technology can challenge the conventional roles within a newsroom. It changes the "speed to market", it raises concerns about traditional journalists and the changing nature of editorial control. This works both ways, where new power dynamics can lead to tensions when digital leaders overstep their bounds or when their innovations disrupt the status quo too abruptly. All of a sudden, their importance leads to ego problems. Gold Crushes Ants: The Gradual Path to Power and Responsibility. “If you give a ton of gold to an ant, it will only crush the ant.” — Sadguru There’s a profound parable shared by Sadguru about a lion with the heart of a mouse, [00:04:00] it went something like this… There was once a compassionate sage. One day while searching his home, the sage uncovered a mother and five baby mice. Terrified, the mother ran away, leaving the baby mice. The kind sage fed the babies with some grain. One day a cat came and devoured four of the mice, but one escaped. The old man continued to feed and care for the last baby mouse. The cat came back to finish the job and eat the last mouse, but the sage chased her away. Every time the sage closed his eyes to meditate, the wily cat came back. Eventually, the sage reasoned that this was not sustainable and he could not always protect the cat, so he had an idea. He used his magical powers to turn the baby mouse into a fierce cat. The idea worked and the cat never came back. However, a wild dog soon discovered there was a tasty cat living with the sage and hung around waiting for an opportunity for a tasty meal. Once again, the [00:05:00] sage thought to himself, this is so inconvenient. Once again the sage used his powers and changed the cat, who was once a mouse, into a dog. Again, it worked, but only for a while. One day, the dog ran home with his tail between his legs. The sage looked out to see that a large panther had been hunting the dog. After chasing the panther away, the sage sat down and thought. This was becoming too troublesome. He had an idea and used his powers one last time. He turned the dog into a lion — after all — a lion is the king of the jungle. Now, when the lion — who was a mouse, then a cat, and then a dog — roamed through the jungle, all the other animals ran away in fear. However, the lion went through a constant internal struggle. Knowing he was a lion with the heart of a mouse, he thought to himself. “What if the other animals find out that deep down I am just a mouse? What will they do to me?” The lion realised. The only other person in the world [00:06:00] who knows he is a mouse is the sage, so he had an idea. The lion returned home to the sage, intending to kill him. The savvy sage realised what the lion was about to do and apologised to the mouse inside the lion, saying it was wrong of him to change him. And so, the sage turned him back into a mouse. So what is the moral of the story? It is natural for a cat to chase a mouse, for a dog to chase a cat, for a panther to chase a dog. If you give them a position far beyond their capabilities for that position, it will bring misery to them and to the person who gave them the position. Whenever we place someone in a position beyond their abilities, it can rack them with insecurity, fear and doubt. In an organisation, power can poison talented people. They may suspect that others will doubt their abilities, they will fear that others will find them out. It happens with Innovation roles all the time. The organisation feels it should reward tenure and “gifts” an Innovation [00:07:00] Director or other "newly minted" role to executives who do not have transformation or innovation in their DNA. It happens in family-owned organisations because of nepotism. The family member then reigns terror throughout the organisation, sometimes undoing decades of significant cultural work laid down by previous generations. When we gift opportunities to others when they have not earned those opportunities, it rarely works out well. It is not about depriving the giver or the receiver; it is about the struggle and the rite of passage. This concept is particularly relevant today, where new roles—like Head of Digital, Head of Innovation, or Head of Data—are created to meet the demands of rapidly changing organisations. While those filling these positions often possess technical expertise, they may lack the leadership skills and political acumen required to navigate complex corporate environments. This leads to a profound mismatch between the role and the person, where the weight of responsibility [00:08:00] becomes crushing. The lion’s predicament is a metaphor for many modern professionals who find themselves thrust into positions of leadership. They have the title and the technical skills, but they haven’t developed the “muscle” to manage the power and responsibility that comes with the role. Just like the lion’s external strength hides its inner fragility, these professionals can struggle to wield their new authority. The Physiology of Building Strength. Building leadership capacity is much like developing physical strength. When muscles grow too quickly—often through artificial means like anabolic steroids—tendons and ligaments don’t have time to catch up with muscle growth. This creates an imbalance, increasing the risk of injury. The tendons can rupture because they’re not strong enough to support the rapidly growing muscles. In the same way, individuals promoted too quickly may lack the "connective tissue" of leadership skills, such as emotional intelligence, political savvy, and strategic thinking. [00:09:00] These are the tendons that allow people to support the heavier loads of responsibility that come with leadership. Without developing these critical soft skills, individuals risk being crushed by the demands of their new roles, just as tendons snap under the weight of artificially strengthened muscles. Organisations are complex ecosystems with intricate power dynamics, unspoken norms, and political undercurrents. New leaders, especially those in innovative or transformative roles, often find themselves in an organisational maze of competing interests and hidden agendas. Without prior coaching or development in leadership and political navigation, they may struggle to implement their visions. The Danger of Ill-Fitting “Robes” This theme echoes Shakespeare’s Macbeth, where the protagonist says: “Why do you dress me in borrowed robes?” (*Macbeth*, Act 1, Scene 3). The quote reflects how newly bestowed titles, roles, or responsibilities can feel like ill-fitting garments, [00:10:00] overwhelming the per

AI Transforming Consulting: Strategies, Ethics, and the Future   The world of consulting is experiencing a seismic shift, largely driven by AI. In this episode, we are joined by Ryan Shanks (Head of Innovation for Accenture EMEA), Alex Osterwalder (CEO of Strategyzer), and Rita McGrath (Columbia Professor, Author and Founder of Valize). They discuss the traditional consulting model, the impact AI has on roles within consulting, and the broader implications on the industry and society. They also delve into the importance of human skills, the evolving business models, the significance of trust in digital transformation, and the shifting landscape of organizational structures and career paths. A must-watch for anyone involved in or interested in the consulting sector.   00:00 Introduction to the Changing World of Consulting 00:40 Traditional Consulting Models and Their Evolution 02:01 Impact of AI on Consulting Roles 02:28 Building and Hiring in the New Consulting Landscape 03:23 AI's Role in Transforming Business Models 05:18 Real-World Examples of AI Integration 14:09 The Need for Continuous Reinvention 18:28 Outcome-Based Consulting and Ethical Dilemmas 24:46 Future of Consulting: Marketplaces and Ecosystems 26:35 The Rise of Small AI-Driven Firms 27:23 Impact on Education and Hiring 28:35 Human Skills in the Age of AI 30:22 Trust and Ethics in AI 31:36 Adapting to Rapid Change 32:53 The Role of Human Sciences 36:09 The Future of Work and AI 43:16 Leadership and Governance Challenges 46:10 Final Thoughts and Reflections   Find Rita: https://www.valize.com Find Alex: https://www.strategyzer.com Find Ryan: https://ie.linkedin.com/in/ryanmartinshanks Find The Reinvention Summit: https://www.thereinventionsummit.com   Innovation, AI, Consulting, Business Strategy, Digital Transformation, Reinvention, Change Management, Future of Work, Organisational Culture, Emerging Trends, Rita McGrath, Alex Osterwalder, Ryan Shanks, Strategic Inflection Points, Ecosystem Thinking, Entrepreneurship, Human-Centric Design, Technology Disruption, Leadership, Continuous Reinvention

Garvan Callan - Unlocking Digital Transformation Join us for an enlightening episode as Aidan McCullen welcomes Garvan Callan, author of 'Digital Business Strategy,' to the Innovation Show. They delve deep into the essence of digital transformation, from defining digitization and digitalization, to exploring the importance of building digital businesses with customer-centric strategies. Gain valuable knowledge on how to reimagine organizational frameworks, harness new technologies, and cultivate a culture of perpetual innovation. Learn practical frameworks, case studies, and leadership approaches essential for thriving in the digital age. Don't miss this comprehensive discussion on staying ahead in an ever-evolving technological landscape.   00:00 Promo for The Reinvention Summit 00:29 Welcoming Garvan Callan 01:11 Origins of Digital Transformation 02:35 Understanding Digitization vs. Digitalization 04:46 The Digital Business Landscape 08:54 Customer-Centric Digital Strategies 14:04 The E Plus One Experience 17:12 Digital 360 Framework 22:54 Challenges of Digital Transformation 28:47 Building Strategy: Efficiency and Simplification 29:40 The Spin Out Syndrome and Simplification Journey 32:27 The Phoenix Metaphor and Organizational Resistance 33:11 The Spider Web Analogy and Data Challenges 34:28 Adapting Strategy for Rapid Change 35:14 Scaling Up: Challenges and Recalibration 37:25 The Agile Organization and Breaking Silos 41:07 Open Business Models and Technological Integration 45:16 Risk Management in Agile and Fluid Organizations 49:05 The Waltzer Effect: Combining Technologies for Change 53:21 The Culture Iceberg: Values and Beliefs 56:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Find Garvan here:  https://onezero1.ie The Reinvention Summit; https://www.thereinventionsummit.com   digital transformation, business strategy, digital innovation, future-proofing, digital age, Reinvention Summit, innovation, workshops, digital business, media company, digitalization, digitization, digital frameworks, digital execution, customer centricity, digital definition, digital processes, competitive advantage, leadership, organizational culture  

🎥 Mastering Ambidexterity: How to Balance Core and Explore with Michael Tushman & Charles O'Reilly What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The challenges of balancing innovation and efficiency. How Microsoft transformed its culture under Satya Nadella using the LEASH Model. The role of Corporate Explorers in driving change. Practical tools and strategies for structural ambidexterity. In this episode of the Corporate Explorer series, Charles O'Reilly III and Mike Tushman delve into the concept of corporate ambidexterity, focusing on how to balance core (exploit) and explore businesses. They emphasize the creation of separate units with distinct architectures, metrics, and cultures. The discussion explores the critical role of organizational culture and the 'LEASH' model for driving cultural transformation. Using Microsoft under Satya Nadella as a case study, they demonstrate how consistent behavior reinforcement can drive successful cultural change. This episode is essential for leaders aiming to navigate the complexities of innovation within established firms.   00:00 Introduction to Ambidexterity 00:25 Challenges in Implementing Ambidexterity 00:59 Corporate Explorer Series Overview 01:36 Guest Introduction: Charles O'Reilly and Mike Tushman 02:05 Core and Explore: Research and Insights 03:57 The Role of Culture in Ambidexterity 06:14 Microsoft's Cultural Transformation 07:32 The LEASH Model Explained 09:23 Satya Nadella's Leadership at Microsoft 16:51 Linking Personal and Organizational Renewal 18:35 Closing Remarks and Resources 💡 Learn More: Check out related episodes with Tushman & O’Reilly 👉 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMxiNrgE29RLJmEfThOicSPPH972VP0U7  Engage with Us: https://theinnovationshow.io Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-innovation-show/  #Ambidexterity #Innovation #Leadership #OrganizationalChange #CorporateExplorer

Paul Daugherty - Radically Human In this episode, we dive deep with Paul Daugherty, Senior Technology Advisor to Accenture and author of 'Radically Human' and 'Human + Machine'. We explore the evolution of artificial intelligence, its impact on businesses, and how companies can navigate the AI-driven landscape using the IDEAS framework. Paul shares insights into human-centered AI, the importance of trust, and how organizations can reimagine work in the age of AI.  00:00 Introduction to Human-Centered AI 00:49 Guest Introduction: Paul Daugherty 01:45 Context of the Books: Human + Machine and Radically Human 03:06 Research Insights: AI's Impact on Business Performance 04:38 Pandemic as an Accelerant for Technology Adoption 06:23 Tech Vision 2024: Key Trends and Predictions 09:47 Challenges and Opportunities for CTOs 18:26 The Digital Core: Modernizing for the AI Era 24:47 Every Company is a Technology Company 28:30 Phases of Intelligent Technology 35:23 The Digital Divide: A Growing Concern 36:14 Supporting Displaced Workers 38:30 The Trust Gap in the Workforce 41:37 The IDEAS Framework: An Overview 46:49 Deep Learning and Its Limitations 53:14 The Role of Data in AI 59:56 Machine Teaching and Human-Machine Hybrids 01:02:03 Innovating in the Cloud 01:05:18 Strategic Approaches: Forever Beta and Colabbing 01:07:44 The Importance of Trust 01:08:47 Conclusion and Contact Information

If you could make a change—any change you wanted—what would it be? Would it be something in your organization or your industry? Maybe something it’s in your community or throughout society as a whole? Creating true change is never easy. Most startups don’t survive. Most community groups never get beyond small local actions. Even when a spark catches fire and protesters swarm the streets, it often seems to fizzle out almost as fast as it started. The status quo is, almost by definition, well entrenched and never gives up without a fight. I was MC at the fifteen seconds festival in Graz, Austria and I was joined on stage by my friend and bestselling Author, Keynote Speaker and Innovation Advisor Greg Satell. Greg suggested the topic: How to Save the World From AI. This is that conversation. After the panel, Phaedra asked about using humour to lower resistance to change. Greg suggested laughtivism. Here is a video about laughtivism with Srdja Popovic: https://youtu.be/dAiDviKqWZI More about Greg Satell here: https://gregsatell.com/books/  

I was MC for the tech stage at the Fifteen Seconds Festival in Graz, Austria. I had the pleasure of meeting the brilliant Phaedra Boinodiris. A fellow with the London-based Royal Society of Arts, Phaedra has focused on inclusion in technology since 1999. She is the business transformation leader for IBM’s Responsible AI consulting group and serves on the leadership team of IBM’s Academy of Technology. She is the author of the book “AI for the Rest of Us”, and is a co-founder of the Future World Alliance, a non-profit dedicated to curating K-12 education in AI ethics. She is pursuing her PhD in AI and Ethics at University College Dublin’s Smart Lab. In 2019, she won the United Nations Woman of Influence in STEM and Inclusivity Award. Women in Games International recognised her as one of the Top 100 Women in the Games Industry as she began one of the first scholarship programs in the United States for women to pursue degrees in game design and development. Find Phaedra here: https://phaedra.ai