In this episode, host Deb Reuben sits down with Amy Whitney, Director of the University of North Dakota’s Center for Innovation, to discuss her journey from a farm in Vermont to leading innovation initiatives at UND. They explore the power of curiosity, experimentation, and collaboration in driving innovation, highlighting the Center's work in senior healthcare and unmanned aerial systems. Amy shares insights on fostering diverse thought and unlikely collaborations to solve complex challenges, emphasizing innovation's role in creating positive change. 

Connect with Us: •    Follow Amy Whitney on LinkedIn: Amy Whitney •    Learn more about the UND Center for Innovation: UND Center for Innovation  •    Connect with Deb Reuben and TomorrowZone: TomorrowZone 

Bio:  Dr. Amy Whitney is the Director of the UND Center for Innovation (CFI), a vibrant business incubator at the University of North Dakota supporting entrepreneurs across North Dakota, as well as UND students and faculty in Grand Forks. Her professional, teaching and research experience is focused on business innovation, creativity, entrepreneurial activity, and high impact applied learning. The CFI helps innovators advance ideas through startup coaching and creative thinking facilitation. Dr. Whitney is a certified National NSF I-Corps instructor and is the lead instructor for the Great Plains I-Corps hub. She also is the lead instructor for the UND Innovation By Design course, a National Security Innovation Network program.

In this episode, Deb Reuben talks with Jayshree Seth, Chief Science Advocate at 3M, discussing innovation, resilience, and fostering a culture of curiosity. Jayshree shares insights on empowering teams through structured innovation at 3M, her vision for sustainable innovation driven by stakeholder capitalism, and the importance of integrating social sciences in technological advancements. They explore actionable strategies for cultivating inclusive and impactful innovation, emphasizing the role of empathy and continuous learning in navigating challenges and driving positive change.

Jayshree Seth is a Corporate Scientist at 3M and 3M’s first ever Chief Science Advocate. She joined 3M in 1993 after earning a PhD in Chemical Engineering from Clarkson University and currently holds 80 patents for a variety of innovations. In 2020, she was awarded Society of Women Engineers (SWE) highest Achievement Award. Jayshree was featured in a 2021 docuseries “Not the Science Type”. She is also author of The Heart of Science – Engineering Footprints, Fingerprints, & Imprints, and The Heart of Science – Engineering Fine Print. All proceeds from book sales go to a scholarship for underrepresented minority women in STEM.   Jayshree’s recent article for Drucker Forum blog: The 3 C’s of Sustainable Innovation by Jayshree Seth - Global Peter Drucker Forum BLOG

In this episode, Deb Reuben, CEO of TomorrowZone, sits down with Jennica Burgh, Strategy Coach and Director of Operations for TomorrowZone, to discuss the vital role of the human element in digital transformation. Jennica shares her journey from clinical social work to consulting in equipment finance, highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives in driving innovation. They discuss the critical role of mental health and well-being in professional settings and offer strategies for maintaining balance and resilience. Emphasizing the importance of curiosity, they provide practical advice for fostering a curious mindset within teams, ultimately driving continuous improvement and breakthrough ideas. Join Deb and Jennica as they navigate the messy middle of digital transformation and discover the transformative power of embracing the human side of innovation.   In this episode, Deb Reuben, CEO of TomorrowZone, sits down with Jennica Burgh, Strategy Coach and Director of Operations for TomorrowZone, to discuss the vital role of the human element in digital transformation. Jennica shares her journey from clinical social work to consulting in equipment finance, highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives in driving innovation. They discuss the critical role of mental health and well-being in professional settings and offer strategies for maintaining balance and resilience. Emphasizing the importance of curiosity, they provide practical advice for fostering a curious mindset within teams, ultimately driving continuous improvement and breakthrough ideas. Join Deb and Jennica as they navigate the messy middle of digital transformation and discover the transformative power of embracing the human side of innovation.   Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennicaburgh/ More Info: https://tomorrowzone.io   Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennicaburgh/ More Info: https://tomorrowzone.io

In this episode, Deb chats with Garland Brooks, Federal Enablement & Automation Architect at Dell Technologies, about innovation in the equipment finance industry. They discuss navigating constraints, fostering creativity, and dispelling fears around intelligent automation. Garland shares his innovative VR training approach and emphasizes the importance of program maturity and leadership development. The conversation concludes with a call to embrace failure and experimentation. Join Deb and Garland for a dynamic discussion on shaping a better tomorrow through innovation. 

Connect on LinkedIn:  Garland Brooks II | LinkedIn

Garland excels as an Automation Architect within the Business Enablement & Operations organization at Dell Federal Systems, bringing over 24 years of deep expertise in finance and service-oriented roles across the automotive and technology sectors. A pivotal force behind the successful launch of the Automation Center of Excellence at Dell Federal, he leads transformative initiatives that not only streamline operations but also foster a culture of continuous innovation. His work concentrates on consolidating resources, developing cutting-edge tools, and automating workloads, all while strategically enhancing productivity through automation.

In this episode of the TomorrowZone Catalyst podcast, Deb interviews Michele Toland, an innovative solutions consultant and integral member of the TomorrowZone team. Michele’s journey from banking to software, navigating various facets of equipment finance, provides a rich backdrop for exploring the edges of innovation. They discuss the importance of finding opportunities in chaos, simplifying complex solutions, and balancing traditional practices with modern technology. Michele emphasizes the role of empathy in leadership and the need to understand and address team and customer concerns to foster a supportive environment that drives innovation and growth. This conversation offers valuable insights into leading successful digital transformations in the financial industry.

With a rich background spanning lending & equipment leasing operations, software design, development, and sales, Michele Toland brings a rare mix of skills to the table. Having thrived in various settings, from community local businesses to bustling international institutions including banks, independents, captives, and startups, she truly knows the ins and outs of lending and leasing. Building on this foundation, Michele ventured into financial software and has a knack for dreaming up creative solutions, working closely with cross-functional teams and partners. She's adept at turning both known and unexpected needs into human-centric digital solutions. Fueled by a passion for innovation and possibilities, Michele is all about breaking barriers and guiding teams through the ever-evolving landscape of finance and technology.   Contact: [email protected] or https://tomorrowzone.io LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michele-toland

In this episode, Deb Reuben, CEO of TomorrowZone, sits down with Jen Swanson, CEO of Tuckpoint Advisory Group, to debunk common myths surrounding digital transformation. They discuss the realities of implementing digital initiatives and the critical role of addressing the human side of innovation. Deb and Jen challenge listeners to rethink their approach to digital transformation, focusing not only on technology but also on the human aspects of change. By embracing a forward-thinking mindset and leveraging strategic partnerships, organizations can navigate the complexities of digital disruption and emerge stronger and more resilient in the digital age.   Jen Swanson’s career spans over 25 years of roles in customer advocacy, marketing technology, and service channel operations in higher education and healthcare organizations, including the University of Minnesota, Capella University, Children’s Minnesota, and UnitedHealth Group. Her consulting career began in 2019 and in 2023 she expanded that work by creating Tuckpoint Advisory Group.   Tuckpoint Website: www.tuckpoint.com Connect with Jen: www.linkedin.com/in/jgswanson

In this episode, Deb continues her captivating conversation with Curtis McConnell, diving into the fascinating intersection of art and technology. Curtis shares insights from his journey in the art industry, discussing his approach to innovation, overcoming resistance, and fostering adoption of technology solutions. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the core problems faced by stakeholders and building trust through addressing those challenges. Curtis also explores emerging trends and possibilities in the art and technology landscape, envisioning immersive experiences and the democratization of art through technology. The conversation highlights the transformative power of technology in making art more accessible, engaging, and meaningful to a broader audience. 

This is part 2 of Deb’s conversation with Curtis. If you missed the first half, make sure to check out Modernizing the Art Industry with Curtis McConnell, Part 1. 

Curtis McConnell, Founder and CEO of Authentify Art, is a tech visionary and innovator specializing in supply chain systems, process engineering, and business intelligence. With a background as VP of Engineering at 1-800-Flowers and Director of Supply Chain Systems at ProFlowers, Curtis has driven transformation in diverse industries. His expertise extends to art authentication, where he holds a recent patent. Outside of tech, Curtis enjoys triathlons, historical fiction, and crafting artisanal bacon through his e-commerce venture, The Bacon Swinery. A Princeton University graduate with a BA in History, Curtis brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to the intersection of art and technology. 

Resources:  

Authentify Art [https://www.authentifyart.com/] 

Authentify’s Evolution of Art (YouTube) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrbpMGZb38g]

Samsung Next Presentation 2022 (YouTube) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7U9WsPu8m0]  

In this dynamic episode, Deb and Curtis engage in a thought-provoking discussion on leveraging diverse experiences and removing barriers to drive innovation. Curtis shares insights from his eclectic journey, spanning from physics to art history, and how each experience has shaped his innovative approach. Together, they explore the transformative power of reframing problems through a fresh lens and drawing parallels between seemingly unrelated industries. 

 

Curtis emphasizes the importance of understanding human nature in developing effective solutions, particularly in combating fraud. He shares his experiences in developing standards to address trust and accessibility issues in the art industry through his venture, Authentify Art. The conversation dives into the significance of democratizing participation and fostering trust to drive industry-wide change. 

 

This is the first part of the conversation. Make sure to catch the conclusion next week.  

 

Curtis McConnell, Founder and CEO of Authentify Art, is a tech visionary and innovator specializing in supply chain systems, process engineering, and business intelligence. With a background as VP of Engineering at 1-800-Flowers and Director of Supply Chain Systems at ProFlowers, Curtis has driven transformation in diverse industries. His expertise extends to art authentication, where he holds a recent patent. Outside of tech, Curtis enjoys triathlons, historical fiction, and crafting artisanal bacon through his e-commerce venture, The Bacon Swinery. A Princeton University graduate with a BA in History, Curtis brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to the intersection of art and technology.

Resources:  

Authentify Art [https://www.authentifyart.com/] 

Authentify’s Evolution of Art (YouTube) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrbpMGZb38g]

Samsung Next Presentation 2022 (YouTube) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7U9WsPu8m0] 

In this captivating episode of the TomorrowZone Catalyst podcast, Deborah Reuben sits down with Jen Croneberger, the visionary founder of J Lynn Consulting Group, to explore the profound impact of compassionate leadership and the indispensable role of human elements in driving innovation. Jen shares her unique journey from the sports field to the corporate world, shedding light on how empathy, authenticity, and human connection are pivotal in navigating the challenges of change and fostering a culture of innovation.

Jen Croneberger, a 4-time TEDx speaker and compassionate leadership/change consultant, is the Founder and Chief Inspiration Office of JLynne Consulting Group, LLC, and the HUMAN Leaderhip Institue. Most of her last 20 years have been spent instilling confidence and building deeper connections and awareness. With a master’s in Sports Psychology, she's worked with top athletes and major organizations like Nike and the US Department of Defense. Jen holds certifications from Harvard Business School and Cornell University and is an invite-only member of Forbes’ Coaches Council. She hosts "The Possibility Project" podcast and contributes to Forbes. Author of "These Five Words Are Mine," her upcoming book "Meet Them Where They Are: The B.R.A.V.E. Human Leadership® Model for Connected Cultures,” is due out this fall. Jen was recognized as Female Business Leader of the Year (2009), a top Motivational Speaker in the Philadelphia, PA & Washington, DC Regions (2015-2019), and a “2020 Power Woman” highlighting her long-time focus on compassion and empathy. 

Learn more about Jen Croneberger at: Jen Croneberger, Speaker, Coach – Culture and Leadership Consultant (teamjlcg.com)     Links and Resources:  - [J Lynn Consulting Group](https://teamjlcg.com)  - [TomorrowZone](https://tomorrowzone.io) 

Join Deb Reuben, CEO and Founder of TomorrowZone®, and Jennica Burgh, TomorrowZone's Director of Operations, for an engaging conversation that peels back the layers of digital transformation.   In this dynamic episode, Deb shares her journey from the trenches of digital innovation in the early 2000s to leading transformative initiatives today. She recounts the highs and lows, revealing the often-overlooked human side of digital change.   Discover the common challenges faced by companies embarking on digital transformation journeys and how these initiatives can magnify existing dysfunction within organizations. Explore the pivotal role of leadership in guiding successful digital transformations and gain actionable insights into how to navigate these complex endeavors.   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.   For more information visit tomorrowozone.io