Why do so many innovation initiatives fall flat—even in successful companies? In this episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, Anthony Taylor sits down with innovation expert Robyn Bolton to discuss what leaders get wrong about innovation, how to create the right conditions for it to thrive, and what it takes to build a truly innovative culture.

With experience at P&G and other leading brands, Robyn shares actionable stories and surprising truths about leadership, risk, and repeatable innovation.

► Work with us to facilitate your strategic plan:

https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic-planning-facilitator

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why innovation is more than just a process

• How leaders accidentally kill innovation by “doing what worked before”

• Why operating instincts are the enemy of innovation instincts

• What it means to “channel your inner George Costanza”

• How to hedge risk and lead through uncertainty

Who it's for:

• CEOs, Entrepreneurs, and Strategy Leaders

• Innovation teams and R&D professionals

• Organizations facing disruption or trying to stay ahead

• Anyone rethinking how they lead change

About the Guest:

Robyn Bolton is the founder of MileZero, a consulting firm that helps organizations unlock innovation and drive repeatable growth. A former P&G brand manager, Robyn is the author of Unlocking Innovation and a leading voice on leadership-driven innovation strategy.

Website: https://www.milezero.io/about/

About the Host:

Anthony Taylor is the CEO of SME Strategy, a strategic planning consulting firm. With over 14 years of experience, he’s helped organizations worldwide build strategic plans that get results. LinkedIn: /anthonyrtaylor604

Helpful Resources:

• Explore our strategy services: https://www.smestrategy.net

• Online courses for leaders: https://courses.smestrategy.net

• Connect with Anthony: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/

Podcast produced by Rednyne Productions https://www.rednyne.com

In this episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, our guest, Vanessa Druskat, author of "The Emotionally Intelligent Team: Building Collaborative Groups That Outperform the Rest," provides valuable insights into what makes some teams succeed while others fail. Vanessa discusses the importance of psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and team dynamics. She shares her journey from academia to developing a model for building emotionally intelligent environments where team members thrive.

Discover how understanding team interactions and cultivating trust can transform the way teams function. Vanessa explains the role of empowerment, belonging, and the many-to-many relationships crucial for team success. Whether you're a leader looking to improve team performance or curious about the intricacies of team dynamics, this episode offers practical advice and thought-provoking perspectives.

Welcome to this exciting episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, where we delve into the transformative power of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) with our expert guests, Josh Davis and Greg Promushkin. As authors of 'NLP and the Science of Positive Change,' they share their unique insights into how NLP can be practically applied in everyday life and leadership to foster significant and lasting changes.

Our discussion highlights the importance of effective communication, understanding and meeting others mentally and emotionally, and practicing the art of influence. Whether you are looking to improve your leadership skills or personal development, this episode provides valuable strategies and real-world examples of how NLP can help you achieve your goals.

Tune in and discover the difference that makes the difference, a step towards better communication and leadership. Subscribe for more insightful conversations like this one on the Strategy and Leadership Podcast.

Chapters

In this episode of the Strategy and Leadership podcast, Dr. Julie Wilson shares her journey as a family doctor and healthcare leader. She discusses her passion for ethical business practices, the importance of creating a positive workplace culture, and her vision for expanding healthcare access. Dr. Wilson emphasizes the need for effective communication and compassion in leadership, as well as the significance of fostering a supportive environment for employees. The conversation highlights her commitment to driving system-level change in healthcare and her excitement for future growth in her organization.

Access our courses to support your strategy leadership: https://courses.smestrategy.net/

Learn more about our Strategic Planning Facilitation Services 

► Contact SME Strategy: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact

► Connect with Anthony: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/

In this captivating episode of the Strategy and Leadership Podcast, host Anthony welcomes John D. Marvin, the esteemed CEO and President of Texas State Optical (TSO). Together, they delve into the fascinating history of TSO, a pioneering optometry practice founded in 1936 by the Rogers brothers, and its evolution into a respected brand across multiple states.

John shares his unconventional journey to leadership, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced while revitalizing TSO after decades of changing ownership. He provides insights into his unique leadership style, which emphasizes influence over control in guiding franchisees towards success.

The episode offers valuable lessons on creating a resilient brand and business legacy, balancing autonomy with guidance, and the importance of starting with purpose and core values. Perfect for aspiring CEOs, business owners, and anyone interested in the dynamic interplay of strategy and leadership.

Andrew Miller, the president and CEO of United Way of Skagit County and the co-founder and CEO of Tulip Valley Farms. Discover how Andrew transitioned from a career in Air Force intelligence to embracing life as a tulip farmer, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to both farming and community work.

Andrew shares his unique strategic insights, discussing the challenges and opportunities in the tulip farming industry, the transformation of the United Way of Skagit County, and the importance of adaptability and curiosity in leadership. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a nonprofit leader, or someone fascinated by unconventional career paths, this episode offers valuable lessons on maintaining an agile mindset and navigating change in today's fast-paced world.

Anthony Taylor interviews Blair LaCorte, a seasoned CEO with extensive experience in private equity and aviation. They discuss Blair's journey, particularly his time at XOJet, where he transformed a struggling airline into a successful business through innovative strategies and a focus on customer needs. The conversation delves into the importance of leadership, team dynamics, and the necessity of self-care for CEOs. Blair shares valuable insights on navigating challenges, fostering innovation, and treating people with respect, even during difficult transitions.

Learn more about SME Strategy and how we support strategic planning facilitation.

Learn to be a better leader in our academy: https://courses.smestrategy.net/

Anthony Taylor and Tim Koller discuss the critical aspects of business valuation, emphasizing the importance of balancing revenue growth and profitability. They explore strategic decision-making in large organizations, the role of the CEO in resource allocation, and the necessity of understanding financial drivers to create value. Tim shares insights from his extensive experience in corporate finance and highlights the need for a disciplined approach to decision-making and investment.

Connect with Tim here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timkoller/

Get his book: https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/strategy-and-corporate-finance/our-insights/valuation-measuring-and-managing-the-value-of-companies

#businessvaluation, #revenue growth, #profitability, #strategicplanning, #decision-making, #corporatefinance,  #financialanalysis, #cashflow

Dr. Bernard Harris, the first black astronaut to walk in space, shares his incredible journey from childhood dreams of space exploration to becoming a physician, venture capitalist, and author. He discusses the importance of mentorship, visualization, and embracing infinite possibilities in achieving one's highest potential. Dr. Harris emphasizes the need for audacious goal setting and the value of perspective gained from unique experiences, such as viewing Earth from space. He also offers insights into leadership and the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals.

► Contact us: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact

► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn:   / anthonyctaylor604  

This SME Strategy Podcast episode features technology and leadership innovator Kevin Surace, offering expert guidance on leveraging generative AI to enhance content creation and drive strategic growth and strategic planning.

Learn how to make better decisions, improve your customer experience, and cultivate a culture of joy in work that supports your business strategy. Kevin's perspectives on leadership in 2025 and the role of innovation are crucial for any business aiming for strategic success.

Tune in for practical takeaways on building a future-forward business strategy powered by AI.

Chapters

// Connect with us:

► Contact us: https://hubs.la/Q03gh-Pj0

► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn:   / anthonyctaylor604  

// About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster.

► Work with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://hubs.la/Q03gh-Pj0

► Take The Aligned Strategy Course: Leading a strategic planning session of your own? Get the tools you need to be effective in our Aligned Strategy Course. https://courses.smestrategy.net/

► Strategy Leadership Toolkit: Unlock your potential as a leader with a comprehensive toolkit designed for managers. Master strategic decision-making, planning, and stakeholder engagement to drive effective change. https://courses.smestrategy.net/