Discover the transformative impact of design thinking on business innovation in this episode of The Power Lounge. Amy Vaughan welcomes Karen Baker, managing owner of Seven Concepts Inc., recognized by Forbes as one of “3 Women Breaking The Glass Ceiling In The Male-Dominated Tech Industry.” With 26 years of experience driving marketing innovation and enhancing organizational performance across public, private, and academic sectors, Karen shares her expertise in crafting and executing growth strategies. Her collaborations with organizations such as Pernod Ricard, the American Diabetes Association, AARP, Black Entertainment Network, and the Smithsonian illustrate how design thinking goes beyond aesthetics to drive substantial business growth and resilience. Learn how integrating designers into strategic roles can transform your business approach and discover practical methods to implement these strategies in your own work. Whether you're in digital marketing or passionate about creative strategy, this conversation offers actionable insights to elevate your business innovation and adaptability through design.

Connect with Karen Baker on LinkedIn

Key Takeaways:
Karen Baker's Background and Career
Understanding Design Thinking
Application of Design Thinking in Various Sectors
Design Thinking as a Catalyst for Business Transformation
Influences on Karen Baker’s Approach to Design Leadership
The Role of Community in Design Thinking and Business Success
Technology and Its Impact on Design Thinking and Business Strategy
Social Art and Culture's Purpose and Impact
Transferable Skills and Career Adaptability
Role of Research in Design Thinking

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
01:18 - "Empowering Women in Business Design"
04:17 - Design Thinking in Program Development
08:13 - Design Thinking Solves Complex Problems
09:46 - Passion for Creative Problem-Solving
15:13 - Insightful Learning Experience
16:34 - "Podcasting: Focused Creative Reflection"
20:18 - Mastering AI in Food Photography
22:49 - Designing Impactful Social Programs
28:07 - "Blending Creativity and Strategy"
29:58 - Versatile Skills Across Industries
32:53 - Crossover Impact in Health Care
35:09 - Design Requires Community Collaboration
40:12 - Tech Vital for Small Businesses
42:00 - "Enhancing Business with Tech Tools"
44:45 - "Power Round Q&A Session"
48:31 - Upcoming Master Class Announcement
49:00 - Outro

Quotes:
"Good design isn't just about aesthetics; it's about transforming creativity into a competitive advantage."- Amy Vaughan

"Design thinking is not a theory; it's a methodology born to solve problems, turning ideas into impactful change across every facet of life."- Karen Baker

Connect with the host Amy Vaughan:
LinkedIn
Power Lounge Podcast
Learn more about Together Digital and consider joining the movement by visiting togetherindigital.com.

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