January 17, 2025

Drive Innovation with Conflict: Vanessa Thompson

34 minutes

How diversity of thought drives breakthrough ideas

The role of effective communication in innovation

Episode 239 (Vanessa is based in California)

In this conversation with Vanessa Thompson we explore:

Why conflict is a natural and necessary part of the innovation process.

How a shared vision can align and inspire diverse teams.

The role of small, tangible victories in maintaining momentum toward big goals.

The importance of creating psychological safety to encourage creativity.

How diversity of thought leads to better outcomes and breakthrough ideas.

The power of active listening in unlocking new opportunities.

The dual role of leaders as motivators and active listeners.

Why innovation needs structure: lessons from Pixar and other organizations.

How storytelling can engage teams and reinforce organizational goals.

Practical strategies for overcoming market challenges and driving change through innovation.

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About our guest, Vanessa Thompson:

She has spent the past 10 years working at the intersection of cleantech, finance, and innovation, where I’ve been part of Silicon Valley startups and venture capital groups driving meaningful change.

Vanessa is writing a book on innovation, featuring 60 case studies that provide practical, results-based insights for businesses to break free and thrive, even during challenging times.

Learn more about Vanessa Thompson and how to arrange her to speak to your team.

https://www.vanessathompson.com/

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Key Learning Points

1. Conflict is Essential for Innovation

Healthy conflict fosters diverse perspectives, enabling creative problem-solving.

2. Shared Vision Drives Success

A clear, authentic shared vision unites teams and motivates individuals.

3. Small Wins Build Momentum

Celebrating small wins helps teams stay motivated and believe in achieving larger goals.

4. Psychological Safety Enables Creativity

Teams need an environment where dissent is encouraged and valued.

5. Diversity of Thought is Key to Innovation

Diversity in skills and perspectives enhances decision-making and creativity.

6. Listening Unlocks Unexpected Opportunities

Engaging with stakeholders and valuing their input can reveal untapped potential.

7. Leaders as Cheerleaders and Listeners

Leaders must inspire teams and genuinely consider their input.

8. Structure Around Creativity

Establishing dedicated spaces or processes for creative thinking fosters innovation.

9. Storytelling Engages and Motivates Teams

Stories make abstract goals relatable and memorable.

10. Mutually Beneficial Goals Resolve Conflict

Aligning on shared goals helps teams overcome disagreements.

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Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/

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By George Torok

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