This episode is filled with wonder as we delve into the realm of what today’s guest, PK Smith, calls co-creation. What IS co-creation? It’s when two or more people come together around a common problem or goal, committed to finding solutions or making progress by adding their unique strengths to the equation. Each person is willing to admit their weakness because they know that their weakness is the strength of someone else in the group. It’s an amazing approach to teamwork that PK teaches all over the world. On this episode, you’ll get to hear how PK is spreading the Co-creation philosophy and making a difference in the lives of thousands.

Why is co-creation so important?

Working together in an environment where everyone brings their strengths to the table and are open to having others speak into and contribute to their areas of weakness, opens up all kinds of possibilities for creating solutions to problems that seem impossible. It’s a true synergy, where strength builds upon strength and problems are solved. You can hear how PK Smith believes co-creation can change the world, on this episode of Crank It Up.

Stepping into the world of co-creation.

When PK Smith is asked how a person begins to move into the realm of co-creation, the first thing he says is that the person needs to begin to dream. They need to look outside the boundaries they’ve erected around themselves to inconceivable things that they have never thought of before. When they find the thing that makes them cry, that gives them that chill up their spine when they think about accomplishing it, then they’ve found the “why” that will motivate them to take the action needed to build a team that can co-create that reality. Don’t miss PJ’s inspirational approach.

What do you do when others “boo” your dreams?

Many times, when a person begins to dream on a large, co-creation level, they are discouraged and even opposed by those who don’t understand their dream or are threatened by the scale of it. Often, those who boo them are in their own family. What should you do if that happens to you? PK Smith has some great advice about how to deal with the naysayers and critics on this episode, so be sure to stick around and hear what he has to say.

Building sustainable solutions for the people of Malawi.

PK Smith’s Impact Malawi movement is  seeking to improve the standard of medical care, irrigation, nutrition and education in rural areas of Malawi through co-creating with the local communities and all other stakeholders. What that means is that PK and his team are working to teach and equip the people of Malawi to provide the resources they need for themselves so they can build a better future for themselves and the generations to follow. It’s not about handouts, it’s an opportunity to help wonderful human beings care for themselves. You’ll be inspired by what PK is doing and can hear how you can get involved, on this episode.

Outline of this great episode

[1:46] David’s introduction of P.K. Smith.

[2:30] P.K.’s experience in the police force and how it has shaped him.

[4:00] How P.K. became a counselor.

[6:57] How did P.K. develop the ability to relate to people so well?

[9:42] Do people in law enforcement have to compartmentalize things?

[16:08] What’s really happening when your pain comes out on others.

[18:58] What IS co-creation?

[21:05] How does someone step into the world of co-creation?

[23:38] How does a leader start their team toward co-creation?

[25:42] Finding people to fill in the gaps on your team is essential.

[30:04] Strategies for people who want to live out a co-creation life.

[35:10] What to do with those who “boo” your dreams.

[37:22] How to get restarted when you’ve given up because of the negative people.

[39:46] The work P.K. is doing in Africa.

[42:44] The impact the co-creation philosophy is having a...