The TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast

Many leaders treat AI as a shiny new toy. But the real question is: How can AI align with your mission, vision, and values to create long-term impact? In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host Deb Reuben chats with innovation expert and 29-time Emmy Award-winning producer Bill Stainton. Bill shares how leaders can redefine their approach to innovation by leveraging AI as a thought partner rather than a replacement. Drawing from his diverse career, which has included leading creative teams in television and consulting with Fortune 500 companies, Bill explains why every disruption creates opportunities for those ready to embrace change. Tune in as Deb and Bill explore how to overcome fear of AI, foster creativity in your team, and discover what's possible when you think differently. Whether you're an innovation leader or just starting your AI journey, this episode will inspire you to embrace disruption and build a more awesome future. Bill Stainton is a 29-time Emmy Award-winning producer, Hall of Fame keynote speaker, and creativity expert who helps leaders demystify innovation. With a career that includes producing the longest-running, highest-rated regional comedy TV show in the United States and writing for HBO and The Tonight Show, Bill has mastered the art of leading creative teams to success. He brings this expertise to business leaders, guiding them to unlock their teams' hidden potential. A published author and founder of the Elite Innovation Roundtable, Bill collaborates with global brands like Microsoft, Boeing, and Nike. Passionate about simplifying innovation, Bill equips leaders to harness tools like AI to spark breakthrough thinking. Connect with Us: Bill Stainton on LinkedIn: Bill Stainton | LinkedIn Bill Stainton Website: BillStainton Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone® Website: TomorrowZone

In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host Deborah Reuben teams up with Michele Toland to unveil the hidden keys to successful technology adoption. Spoiler alert: it's not just about the tech! Together, they explore the critical human factors that determine whether transformation efforts soar or stall. The sexiest, most powerful technology won't deliver ROI if people don't adopt it. Leaders need to rethink their focus on software alone. From strategies to foster empathy and build trust to the surprising power of visuals in overcoming resistance, this conversation is packed with actionable insights every transformational leader needs. Ready to revolutionize your approach to innovation? Tune in to discover how to empower your team, lead with clarity, and ignite your next breakthrough. This episode will challenge conventional thinking and equip you to drive lasting success by putting people at the heart of change. Deborah "Deb" Reuben, CLFP, DES, CEO and Founder of TomorrowZone, leads a visionary technology strategy consultancy driving fresh ideas and collaborative ventures to shape the future of business. With over two decades of finance and software innovation experience, Deb champions a radical perspective on digital transformation, emphasizing a focus on people over technology. She empowers industry leaders like PNC and Wells Fargo, blending corporate strategy with entrepreneurial flair to achieve marketplace success. Deb's accolades include the CLFP Foundation Cindy Spurdle Award of Excellence, the ELFA Michael J. Fleming Distinguished Service Award, and recognition as one of Monitor Magazine's 50 Most Powerful Women Leaders in Equipment Finance, as well as an Industry Disruptor Icon. Michele Toland, Senior Consultant at TomorrowZone, is a dynamic leader with a unique blend of expertise in lending, equipment leasing, and financial technology. Her career spans diverse environments—from local businesses to global institutions, including banks, independents, captives, and startups—where she has mastered the complexities of operations, software design, development, and sales. Michele's passion lies in crafting human-centric digital solutions that address both anticipated and unexpected challenges. Known for her creativity and collaborative approach, she excels at working with cross-functional teams to transform ideas into actionable innovations. With a focus on breaking barriers and navigating the rapidly changing world of finance and technology, Michele inspires teams to embrace change and realize new possibilities. Connect with Us: Michele Toland on LinkedIn: Michele Toland | LinkedIn Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone Website: TomorrowZone

In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host Deborah Reuben welcomes leadership expert Gayle Lantz for a thought-provoking conversation about micromanagement and its surprising impact on innovation. Gayle unpacks a compelling truth: micromanagement often stems from fear, not control. This fear ripples through teams, stifling creativity, trust and problem-solving. The discussion explores how leaders can shift from task-focused oversight to an outcome-driven vision, creating a space where teams feel empowered to excel. Gayle shares actionable insights on fostering trust, building psychological safety, and using storytelling and metaphors to align teams with a clear, inspiring vision of the future. If you're ready to break free from the control trap and unlock your team's true potential, this episode offers transformative strategies to help you lead with confidence and clarity. Don't miss these powerful takeaways to reshape how you think about leadership and innovation. Gayle Lantz is a trailblazer in leadership development and the founder of WorkMatters®, a consulting firm dedicated to helping mission-driven CEOs and executives inspire innovation and shape corporate culture. With over 20 years of experience, Gayle has guided leaders in building high-performing teams and driving meaningful change. She is the author of the award-winning book Take the Bull by the Horns and the creator of "My Daily Coach," a mobile app delivering daily leadership insights. Known as a "gentle disruptor," Gayle empowers leaders to think differently, challenge the status quo, and achieve results they didn't think possible. Learn more about Gayle's transformative approach at WorkMatters.com. Connect with Us: Gayle Lantz on LinkedIn: Gayle Lantz | LinkedIn WorkMatters Website: WorkMatters® Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone Website: TomorrowZone

In this episode of the TomorrowZone Catalyst Podcast, host Deb Reuben takes us on a journey into the AI adoption mindset. She breaks down the myths and technobabble surrounding artificial intelligence, emphasizing that it's not a futuristic concept—it's already embedded in our daily lives. Deb shares practical examples, from AI-powered email sorting to real-time traffic navigation, illustrating how AI tools are woven into the fabric of business and life. But the real takeaway? AI isn't about replacing humans—it's about amplifying our potential. Discover how cultivating curiosity, experimenting with tools like ChatGPT, and aligning AI initiatives with clear business goals can transform the way you work. Don't miss this episode packed with insights and actionable strategies to start your AI journey. Resources: Download TomorrowZone's 5-Day AI Challenge Workbook to get started on your AI adventure today! Connect with Us: Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone Website: https://tomorrowzone.io

In this special year-end episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host Deb Reuben takes us on a journey through the most transformative insights from a year of conversations. Revisiting key moments from the 2024 episodes, Deb highlights themes that spark innovation, challenge traditional thinking, and celebrate the human side of transformation. This episode explores how industry leaders are embracing bold thinking, collaboration, and curiosity to drive meaningful change. If you're a transformational leader seeking actionable ideas to expand your vision, empower your team, and create future-ready strategies, this reflection will leave you inspired. Let's celebrate a year of progress, breakthroughs, and the transformative power of asking, "What's possible?" Find all episodes referenced here: https://tomorrowzone.io/podcast/ Connect with Us: Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone Website: https://tomorrowzone.io

The "Geek Out" Series is a collection of lively conversations where curiosity meets possibility, taking you on deep dives into trends, innovations, and bold ideas about shaping the future.

In this first episode of the new "Geek Out" series in the TomorrowZone Catalyst Podcast, host Deborah Reuben, CEO and Founder of TomorrowZone, flips the script, joining Jennica Burgh, Director of Operations at TomorrowZone, for a lively and insightful conversation about their shared experiences experimenting with AI. Together, they share personal stories, practical insights, and candid reflections on how AI can empower leaders to think differently and work smarter.

From Deb's early explorations with AI tools in 2016 to Jennica's simple experiments as a self-proclaimed non-technologist, their dialogue demystifies AI and reframes it as a collaborative partner rather than a technical hurdle.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the pace of change or wondered how to integrate AI into your workflow, this episode is for you. Whether you're exploring AI for the first time or seeking inspiration to drive innovation in your organization, this episode offers actionable advice, a dose of humor, and a glimpse into the TomorrowZone approach to creating a more awesome future.

Deborah "Deb" Reuben, CLFP, DES, CEO and Founder of TomorrowZone, leads a visionary technology strategy consultancy driving fresh ideas and collaborative ventures to shape the future of business. With over two decades of finance and software innovation experience, Deb champions a radical perspective on digital transformation, emphasizing a focus on people over technology. She empowers industry leaders like PNC and Wells Fargo, blending corporate strategy with entrepreneurial flair to achieve marketplace success. Deb's accolades include the CLFP Foundation Cindy Spurdle Award of Excellence, the ELFA Michael J. Fleming Distinguished Service Award, and recognition as one of Monitor Magazine's 50 Most Powerful Women Leaders in Equipment Finance, as well as an Industry Disruptor Icon.

Jennica Burgh, Director of Operations for TomorrowZone, transforms vision into action. She simplifies complexity, aligns teams, and drives results that empower leaders to navigate change and achieve ambitious goals. With a strategic, human-centered approach, Jennica creates spaces where collaboration and innovation thrive. Her expertise ensures TomorrowZone operates seamlessly, driving meaningful outcomes for clients shaping a more awesome future.

Connect with Us: Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn Jennica Burgh on LinkedIn: Jennica Burgh | LinkedIn TomorrowZone Website: https://tomorrowzone.io

In this episode of the TomorrowZone Catalyst Podcast, host Deb Reuben connects with Erika Hecht, founder and CEO of Market Ascent, to explore bold strategies for driving industry-level transformation through co-innovation. Erika reveals how collaboration across industries and ecosystems isn't just a buzzword, it's the essential pathway to shaping a better, more sustainable future. Challenging the status quo, Erika asks: "Hackathons are great, but where's your execution hackathon?" Together, they explore how leaders can bridge the gap between ideas and action by fostering cultures that prioritize experimentation, inclusivity and collaboration. The conversation takes a fascinating turn into the world of space technology, with Erika explaining how innovations like space solar power and asteroid mining are designed to enhance life on Earth. Whether you're an equipment finance leader or a forward-thinking innovator, this episode will challenge you to rethink your approach to driving bold, sustainable impact. Tune in to discover how you can shape the future, lead with curiosity, and turn bold ideas into action. It's time to explore the art of the possible. Erika Woldman Hecht is the founder and CEO of Market Ascent, where she helps businesses achieve industry-level leadership through bold, future-focused strategies. With over 25 years of experience working with global giants like IBM, Microsoft, and Adobe, Erika specializes in guiding high-growth organizations across technology, energy, and space sectors. Her Accelerate. Elevate. Dominate.® framework empowers leaders to co-innovate, scale impact, and reshape their industries. Passionate about leveraging cutting-edge technologies to build a better future, Erika is a sought-after advisor to companies navigating rapid change and hypergrowth markets. When she's not driving transformation, she's at the forefront of initiatives like the New Mexico Space Valley Coalition and NewSpace Nexus, catalyzing innovation that benefits life on Earth. Connect with Us: Erika Hecht on LinkedIn: Erika Hecht | LinkedIn Market Ascent Website: marketascent.com Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone Website: https://tomorrowzone.io

The Innovator Success Series is a collection of interviews diving into how smart innovation leaders at top companies are shaping the future. In the latest episode of the series, TomorrowZone Catalyst Podcast host, Deb Reuben, chats with Katie Thompson of Siemens Financial Services, a dynamic innovator shaping the future of equipment finance. Katie shares her journey, from navigating new challenges to driving digital product initiatives, revealing the power of stepping outside your comfort zone. Her insights into leading with a customer-first mindset showcase how prioritizing the customer experience can simplify even the most complex projects. Discover how adopting growth mindset principles and cultivating genuine curiosity can empower leaders to build meaningful connections, ask bold questions, and drive innovation. Ready to transform the way you approach leadership and collaboration? Tune in now to explore actionable strategies for creating the future you envision! Katie Thompson is a forward-thinking innovator at Siemens Financial Services, where she excels as a product development and syndications specialist. She spearheads strategic sales projects, manages the syndication desk, and leads the charge on small-ticket digital product delivery. A member of ELFA's Innovation Advisory Council, Katie brings fresh perspectives that challenge the status quo and inspire growth. Recognized as a 40 Under 40 leader by Monitor Magazine, she embodies the spirit of curiosity, courage, and collaboration. Katie's passion lies in connecting dots across disciplines to design impactful solutions that shape a future-ready industry. Connect with Us: Katie Thompson on LinkedIn: Katie Thompson | LinkedIn Siemens Financial Services Website: www.usa.siemens.com/finance Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone Website: https://tomorrowzone.io

The Innovator Success Series is a collection of interviews diving into how smart innovation leaders at top companies are shaping the future. What does it take to transform bold ideas into meaningful progress? Jillian Munson, VP of Process and Automation at QuickFi, joins the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast to reveal the mindset and strategies behind her innovative strategies in equipment finance. From building trust within her team to designing processes that empower bold experimentation, Jillian shares her journey of pioneering new approaches in the field—and thriving in the unknown. In this latest episode of the Innovator Success Series, host Deb Reuben explores the human side of innovation with Jillian, uncovering what it means to lead with purpose, view setbacks as learning opportunities, and stay aligned on goals amidst change. Jillian's approach isn't about following a script—it's about creating one. Her practical insights will leave you inspired to overcome traditional barriers to innovation and begin creating the change you envision today. Listen now and start shaping the future! Jillian Munson is Vice President of Process and Automation at QuickFi, where she leads transformative initiatives to revolutionize the equipment finance industry. With expertise spanning IT, operations, and product development, she bridges technical innovation with practical application. At QuickFi, Jillian has driven innovations like multilingual platform capabilities and a customer loyalty program, delivering seamless, automated solutions that simplify workflows and enhance transparency. A recognized leader, she serves on the ELFA Innovation Advisory Council and was recently honored with the Converge 2024 Next Gen Award. Jillian is passionate about leveraging technology to create purpose-driven transformation, inspiring teams to challenge the status quo and build a future-ready industry. Connect with Us: Jillian Munson on LinkedIn: Jillian Munson | LinkedIn QuickFi's Website: https://quickfi.com/ Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone Website: https://tomorrowzone.io

The Innovator Success Series is a collection of interviews diving into how smart innovation leaders at top companies are shaping the future. In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host Deb Reuben sits down with Scott Keenan, SVP of Product Innovation at Customers Commercial Finance, to explore the transformative power of customer-centric innovation. Scott shares his journey from cold-calling to becoming a product leader and how psychological safety within teams fuels creative problem-solving. Learn why aligning innovation with customer impact can be the game-changer for your business and how strategic risk management can drive sustainable growth. If you're a leader looking to shape a more awesome future, this conversation is packed with insights to challenge your thinking and inspire action.

Scott Keenan is a visionary product leader specializing in creating transformative digital solutions for the financial services industry. As Senior Vice President of Product Innovation at Customers Commercial Finance, LLC, Scott leads initiatives that enhance customer experiences, support business growth, and optimize risk management. With a proven track record of driving award-winning innovation at CIT/First Citizens Bank, Scott's expertise bridges technology and strategy, earning recognition such as the FinTech Breakthrough Awards for Business Lending Innovation. An Advanced Certified Scrum Product Owner, he applies agile methodologies to fuel iterative progress and deliver impactful results. Scott's passion for leveraging technology to solve complex challenges positions him as a thought leader reshaping the future of equipment finance.

Connect with Us: Scott Keenan on LinkedIn: Scott Keenan | LinkedIn Customers Commercial Finance Website: Customers Commercial Finance Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deb Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone Website: TomorrowZone