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 education

Bridgette 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

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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

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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 platform

Whether 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

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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 answers

Jennifer’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 beyond

Whether 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/

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