How can businesses prepare for an AI-driven future without losing the human touch?

In this insightful episode, Natalie Born sits down with Krystal Parker, a former Fortune 200 executive and award-winning author of The Best Robot Wins. Krystal shares her remarkable journey from a small-town college dropout to a leader in the oil and gas industry, and now as a prominent figure in business consulting. They explore the evolving role of AI, balancing people and processes, and why adaptability is crucial for longevity. From sharing leadership lessons to discussing the future impact of AI on the workforce, Krystal's insights challenge businesses to innovate while maintaining a culture that values people.

[00:01 - 06:29] From Temp to Executive: Krystal’s Journey

[06:29 - 12:19] Writing "The Best Robot Wins"

[12:20 - 18:31] The Balance of People and Processes

[18:32 - 24:50] AI's Impact on Jobs and Customer Service

[24:51 - 29:31] Practical Steps for Companies and Individuals

Quotes:

“When people are in their right spots, working in their passion, innovation thrives.” - Krystal Parker

"Personality is the first line of diversity in a company." - Krystal Parker



Connect with Krystal:

Website: https://intentandimpact.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krystal-parker-mba-65962475/ 

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

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What does it take to not only launch a product on Amazon but to actually protect and scale it in the ever-changing e-commerce world?

In this episode, Natalie Born interviews Amazon expert Shannon Roddy. Shannon shares his journey from learning web design to becoming a trusted authority on Amazon brand success. He dives into the critical aspects of launching innovative products, creating demand, and defending against copycats. He highlights the importance of building a defensible brand and how to leverage influencers and video for impactful product launches. From launching his own marketplace seller course to being acquired by Avenue7Media, Shannon offers valuable insights on navigating the complexities of Amazon and succeeding in e-commerce.

[00:01 - 06:49] A Journey from Web Design to Amazon Expertise

[06:50 - 12:27] Creating Demand Before Supply

[12:28 - 16:53] Protecting Your Brand from Copycats

[16:54 - 24:28] The Power of Branding and Customer Trust

[24:29 - 29:36] Influencers, Video, and Innovative Product Launches

Quotes:

“The best thing you can do is build brand equity and awareness. People have to love, know, and trust your brand.” - Shannon Roddy

"You can't find the search volume for a product that doesn't exist; you have to create demand before you create supply." - Shannon Roddy

Connect with Shannon:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-roddy/

Website: https://avenue7media.com/

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

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What if the key to revolutionizing education lies in interdisciplinary learning and real-world problem-solving?

In this episode, host Natalie Born is joined by Ed Fidoe, the founder and CEO of the London Interdisciplinary School (LIS), an innovative institution tackling global issues like inequality, sustainability, ethics, and AI through an interdisciplinary curriculum. Ed shares his journey from co-founding a K-12 school focused on project-based learning to creating LIS, the first UK institution in decades with degree-awarding powers from inception. Together, they explore the changing landscape of education, the role of AI in academia, and the importance of developing communication skills. The conversation touches on Ed’s belief in solving real-world problems through education and the impact of interdisciplinary expertise on modern challenges.

[00:01 - 05:14] From TV Shows to Education: Ed’s Journey

[05:15 - 10:00] Project-Based Learning & Oracy

[10:01 - 16:34] AI in Education at LIS

[16:35 - 22:44] Tackling Real-World Problems

[22:45 - 27:22] The Role of Interactional Expertise

Quotes:

 “If we’re preparing students for the world of work, we must have them using the AI tools of the day. Otherwise, we’re setting them up to fail.” - Ed Fidoe

"You need to show what you value if you want people to actually kind of work on it and commit time to it." - Ed Fidoe

Connect with Ed:

Website: https://www.lis.ac.uk/team/ed-fidoe

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-fidoe?originalSubdomain=uk

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

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How can shifting your mindset about pricing transform your business and unlock greater value for your clients?

In this episode, John Ray dives into the challenges service providers face when it comes to pricing and value creation. They explore how a mindset shift can help professionals, from consultants to attorneys, understand and communicate their value better, avoid common pricing pitfalls, and confidently present their services. John shares insights from his book, The Generosity Mindset, explaining how generosity and value-based pricing can empower businesses to succeed. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your pricing strategies, this episode is full of actionable advice.

[00:01 - 05:29] Welcome and Introduction

[05:30 - 10:15] Why Pricing is Often Misunderstood

[10:16 - 15:48] The Generosity Mindset and Its Impact on Pricing

[15:49 - 20:33] Redefining Value Beyond Tangible Deliverables

[20:34 - 26:57] Self-Confidence as a Key to Business Success

Quotes:

"You create more value than you believe yourself." - John Ray

"If you price too low, you’re signaling inferiority, even if the quality of your work says otherwise." - John Ray

Connect with John:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnray1

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Generosity-Mindset-Journey-Business-Confidence-ebook/dp/B0CPJZBHC2

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

How can leaders foster innovation even in challenging economic times?

In this illuminating episode of the Innovation Meets Leadership podcast, host Natalie Born sits down with Robyn Bolton, founder and chief navigator at MileZero. Bolton shares insights from her extensive experience at companies like P&G and BCG, offering practical advice on structuring innovation within organizations and empowering employees to contribute meaningfully. The conversation touches on the importance of leadership in driving innovation, strategies for maintaining innovation during economic downturns, and the delicate balance between operational excellence and breakthrough thinking.

Robyn M. Bolton is the founder and Chief Navigator of MileZero, a consultancy dedicated to helping medium and large companies drive revenue growth through innovation. With a rich background spanning Procter & Gamble, Boston Consulting Group, and Innosight, Bolton brings a unique blend of expertise to her clients. Her approach emphasizes flexibility, focus, humility, and humor, combining proven frameworks with practical, collaborative strategies. Bolton's mission is to unlock business potential, deliver tangible results, and build lasting innovation capabilities within organizations, all while maintaining high standards of work and a commitment to impactful involvement.

[00:00:00 - 00:05:59] The Innovation Imperative: Navigating Corporate Challenges

1. Innovation is often a leadership problem, not an idea problem.

2. Short-term incentives can hinder long-term innovation efforts.

3. Brave leaders are needed to invest in innovation for future viability.

[00:06:00 - 00:10:59] Weathering the Storm: Innovation During Economic Uncertainty

1. Economic downturns can be opportunities to double down on innovation.

2. Focus on innovations that align with current strategies and priorities.

3. Engaging in innovation can boost team morale during challenging times.

[00:11:00 - 00:15:59] Ownership and Integration: Making Innovation Work

1. Different types of innovation require different ownership models.

2. Bridging the gap between innovation teams and core business is crucial.

3. CEO ownership of innovation is vital for organizational buy-in.

[00:16:00 - 00:20:59] From Ideation to Implementation: Structuring Innovation Processes

1. Provide a focus for innovation efforts tied to organizational strategy.

2. Require detailed rationales and plans for innovative ideas.

3. Always provide specific feedback on submitted ideas to encourage improvement.

[00:21:00 - 00:25:00] Looking Ahead: The Future of Corporate Innovation

1. Economic pressures may spark a renewed focus on innovation.

2. Leadership behaviors and organizational culture are critical for innovation success.

3. Encourage creative thinking balanced with critical analysis to unlock potential.

Quotes:

"Innovation is I always think of it as a means to an end and when you're in a company and you're innovating, that end has been defined by the company of, you know, what are its short term and long term goals." - Robyn Bolton

"Be brave. When you make mistakes, admit it, because that actually gives your team a lot of courage and comfort to make mistakes themselves." - Robyn Bolton

Connect with Robyn: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynmbolton/

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

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

How can organizations create a security-minded culture where every employee feels responsible for protecting against cyber threats?

In this episode of the Innovation Meets Leadership podcast, host Natalie Born sits down with cybersecurity expert Yosef Beck to explore the ever-evolving landscape of digital security. With over a decade of experience consulting for more than 70 clients and a background in hospitality cybersecurity, Beck shares valuable insights on protecting individuals and organizations from cyber threats. The conversation delves into recent headlines, practical tips for safeguarding against attacks, and the anatomy of a hack. Beck also discusses emerging innovations in cybersecurity and the challenges posed by new technologies like quantum computing and AI.

Yosef brings a balanced and informed perspective to managing risk, considering both global and local operations and compliance requirements. He enjoys explaining complex technical concepts in simple language to help companies understand and prepare for responding to cybersecurity events.

[00:00:00 - 00:07:00] From Tech to Security: Yosef Beck's Cybersecurity Journey

1. Beck's career path included internships with a three-letter agency and various security-related roles in consulting.

2. He transitioned from business management consulting to specialized cybersecurity roles at IHG.

3. Recent headlines include the development of a national data privacy law in the U.S. and a class action against Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

[00:07:00 - 00:13:00] Cybersecurity 101: Protecting Yourself and Your Organization

1. Stay on top of patching for all devices, including IoT devices at home.

2. Only connect devices to the internet when necessary to reduce vulnerabilities.

3. Use ad blockers to minimize exposure to potential threats through malicious ads.

[00:13:00 - 00:18:00] Anatomy of a Hack: Understanding the Attacker's Playbook

1. The process typically involves seven steps: reconnaissance, weaponization, delivery, exploitation, installation, command and control, and actions on objectives.

2. Security teams aim to make each step as difficult as possible for attackers.

3. The time to identify and contain breaches has decreased over the years, but attackers have adapted their strategies accordingly.

[00:18:00 - 00:21:00] The Dark Web Menu: Putting a Price on Personal Data

1. Personal information is being sold on the dark web, with prices varying for different types of data.

2. The need for stronger data privacy controls is emphasized to protect personal information.

3. Companies collecting data should prioritize protecting it, not just using it for profit.

[00:21:00 - 00:23:00] The Future of Cybersecurity: Innovations and Challenges

1. Post-quantum cryptography is becoming crucial to ensure long-term data protection.

2. Public cloud and SaaS security are evolving, with a shift in responsibility between providers and users.

3. Generative AI presents both opportunities and challenges for cybersecurity professionals.

Quotes:

"Security is not security's job. Security is the company, the organization's job. You need to have everybody bought into a security mindset." - Yosef Beck

Connect With Yosef:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yosefbeck/

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

How is artificial intelligence reshaping innovation practices and what does it mean for businesses today?

In this thought-provoking episode, innovation expert Katrin Zimmermann shares insights on the evolution of innovation hubs, the transformative impact of AI, and how businesses can navigate the rapidly changing technological landscape. Drawing from her extensive experience across industries, Zimmermann offers valuable perspectives on integrating innovation into organizational structures and leveraging AI for growth and efficiency. She also explores the broader implications of AI on society and the future of innovation.

Katrin Zimmerman serves and mentors clients on business strategy, digital transformation, marketing transformation, and innovation up to the C-suite. Prior to founding TLGG USA, Katrin spent 15 years at Lufthansa, where she co-created the Innovation Hub.

[00:00:00 - 00:04:00] The Innovation Journey: From Lufthansa to New York

• Zimmermann's diverse career path always centered on innovation

• Experience launching the Lufthansa Innovation Hub

• Transition to consulting with TLGG in New York

[00:04:00 - 00:10:00] The Shifting Landscape of Innovation Hubs

• Democratization of innovation tools like AI

• Corporations reassessing dedicated innovation units

• Importance of context in deciding innovation strategies

[00:10:00 - 00:15:00] AI: The Double-Edged Sword of Progress

• Rapid emergence of AI catching many unprepared

• Polarized views on AI's potential impact

• Need to infuse innovative perspectives into AI development

[00:15:00 - 00:19:00] Navigating the AI Revolution in Business

• Organizations cautiously exploring AI applications

• AI as a transformative force comparable to the shift from horse to car

• Importance of encouraging employee engagement with AI

[00:19:00 - 00:25:00] Practical Steps for Embracing AI in Innovation

• Strategies for organizations to start leveraging AI

• Potential of AI to drive growth and minimize costs

• The evolving relationship between AI and innovation practices

Quotes:

"I think it's an interesting time for innovation in general, because... the speed of innovation and the rapidness of it coming to market and being user available has... [reached] new heights." - Katrin Zimmermann

"To me, it's almost like a trampoline of what's possible. We're not standing on the ground and trying to reach something, but we're now given a trampoline and we can jump in all types of directions and to new heights." - Katrin Zimmermann

Connect with Katrin:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrinzimmermann/

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

How can mastering banking fundamentals transform the trajectory of your small to mid-sized business?

In this enlightening episode of the Innovation Meets Leadership podcast, host Natalie Born is joined by Mary Beth Coke, District Director for Regions Bank, covering Georgia and the Carolinas. Mary Beth shares her extensive background in banking and discusses the critical role that financial strategies play in supporting entrepreneurs and business owners. From starting out to planning for future growth or an exit strategy, Mary Beth provides a masterclass in leveraging banking resources to propel business success. Her insights offer a roadmap for navigating the complex financial landscape that every business owner faces, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right banking partner.

Mary Beth Coke, District Director for Regions Bank in GA/Carolinas since 2023, previously led Middle Market Banking at Truist. Her extensive experience spans various industries and leveraged finance. A Georgia Tech alum, she chairs the Georgia Council on Economic Education, enhancing financial literacy across the state.

[00:00:00-00:02:00] Introduction to Financial Mastery:     

   - The importance of understanding banking as a business tool.

   - How Regions Bank supports businesses across multiple states.

   - Mary Beth's unique approach to banking and customer relationship.

[00:02:00-00:07:00] Banking Foundations for Entrepreneurs:     

   - Mary Beth's journey from corporate to commercial banking.

   - The significance of training programs in banking careers.

   - How foundational skills in banking support business decision-making.

[00:07:00-00:12:00] Strategic Banking for Business Growth:     

   - Identifying and overcoming common business challenges through banking.

   - The role of a bank in strategic planning and financial management.

   - How to use banking products to facilitate business operations and growth.

[00:12:00-00:17:00] Enhancing Business Operations Through Banking:  

      - Practical advice for choosing the right banking services and products.

   - The impact of a good banking relationship on business stability.

   - Examples of how banks can provide comprehensive support beyond financing.

[00:17:00-00:24:00] Preparing for Future Business Transitions:     

   - Strategies for preparing a business for future growth or sale.

   - The importance of integrating strategic financial advice early on.

   - How to leverage banking relationships to maximize business potential.

Quotes:

- "You never know when you're going to need to rely on those deal specific skills or transaction awareness." - Mary Beth Coke

- "It costs nothing to have a conversation, and it can open so many doors." - Mary Beth Coke

Connect with Mary Beth:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-beth-coke-811710b/

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

How can businesses reclaim the customer-centric approach that defined early corporate success and adapt it for the 21st century?

In this enlightening episode of Innovation Meets Leadership, host Natalie Born engages with Hunter Hastings, an economist and former corporate executive turned advisor and author. Hastings shares his rich experience spanning various roles, including CMO and CEO positions, and discusses the evolution of customer-centric business practices. He emphasizes the importance of putting the customer at the center of all business operations and innovations, drawing parallels between 19th-century entrepreneurial approaches and modern customer capitalism. Hastings provides valuable insights on removing organizational barriers, embracing self-management, and the power of empathy in understanding customer needs. This episode offers a compelling perspective on the future of management and the revival of customer-focused business strategies.

Hunter Hastings is an economist who took up a career in corporate marketing and occupied the posts of Chief Marketing Officer in a global consumer products business, Chief Executive Officer in a Silicon Valley start-up enterprise, and Senior Partner in a global consulting company. He’s been an advisor to several Fortune 500 clients in the area of customer motivation and service strategy. 

[00:00:00 - 00:07:00] The Customer-Centric Journey: From P&G to Silicon Valley

[00:07:00 - 00:14:00] Breaking Down Barriers: The Path to Organizational Innovation

[00:14:00 - 00:19:00] Reimagining Implementation: Working Backwards from the Future

[00:19:00 - 00:26:00] Empathy in Engineering: Understanding the Customer's Unspoken Desires

[00:26:00 - 00:30:00] The Revival of Customer Capitalism: Embracing the Future

Quotes:

"The future of management then is no management. It's self-management." - Hunter Hastings

"The customer does know what they want, or at least they know what they want to be better. They don't know what they can want." - Hunter Hastings

Connect with Hunter:

Website: https://hunterhastings.com/

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!

What three essential elements can empower women to embrace their leadership abilities and thrive in their careers?

In this thought-provoking episode of the Innovation Meets Leadership podcast, host Natalie Born engages in a captivating conversation with Tinsley English, a recognized expert in female leadership development. Tinsley shares her personal journey and the lessons she learned along the way, which inspired her to write her transformative book, "Grit, Growth, and Gumption." Throughout the discussion, Tinsley emphasizes the importance of investing in one's own growth, embracing vulnerability, and developing emotional intelligence to become an effective leader. She introduces her powerful G-Force Code system, which combines the elements of grit, growth, and gumption to help women lead themselves and others with confidence. Tinsley's insights and practical advice serve as a roadmap for aspiring female leaders, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones, take chances, and make a lasting impact in their organizations and communities.

Tinsley English is a recognized expert in female leadership development, a dynamic keynote speaker, and a best-selling author renowned for her transformative G-Force Code System.

00:00:00 - 00:10:59 | Falling into Leadership: Tinsley's Journey and the Birth of G Force Code

00:11:00 - 00:19:59 | Embracing Gumption and Growth: Overcoming Fears and Developing Emotional Intelligence

00:20:00 - 00:32:00 | Investing in Yourself and Others: The Importance of Self-Care and Giving Back

Quotes:

"Leadership is not about just you. It's about investing in the growth of yourself and others." - Tinsley English

"When you invest in something, you are giving it time and attention and diligence, like investing into the stock market." - Tinsley English

Connect with Tinsley:

Instagram: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinsleyenglish/

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!