Bruce Vojak closes our three-part Serial Innovators series with the playbook for finding and protecting breakthrough talent: the five core traits to look for, the four engagement filters that actually identify a serial innovator, why HR and AI hiring screens filter them out, and the manager behaviours — air cover, patience, no “J work” — that keep them from walking out the door.
Most innovators believe a great idea will sell itself. Bruce Vojak, co-author of Serial Innovators, joins Aidan McCullen to reveal why that belief will get you fired — and how the rare few who repeatedly deliver breakthrough innovations inside mature firms actually navigate the organisational politics that stop everyone else cold.
Bruce Vojak returns for a short bonus episode on the Hourglass Model — the descriptive state diagram he and his co-authors built to explain how serial innovators actually move from a customer problem to a launched product, without the prescriptive rigidity of stage-gate.
Innovation often fails inside big companies. Chuck House explains managing up, using return maps, and aligning strategy so intrapreneurs can get permission to win
Join Aidan McCullen as he welcomes Clark Gilbert to explore how resource allocation drives real strategic change. From Harvard insights to media industry transformation, this conversation unpacks the processes that shape strategy from the ground up.
Aidan McCullen and Eric von Hippel dive deeper into the concept of Free User Innovation. They explore the division of labor between users and producers, showcasing how pioneering users drive market creation while manufacturers refine and scale innovations. Through compelling anecdotes—from the origins of the heart-lung machine to the rise of mountain biking—this conversation unveils the critical role of user-led innovation in shaping industries.
Stress impacts both human bodies and corporate organizations similarly—prioritizing short-term survival often at the expense of long-term growth. This article draws fascinating parallels and shares insights from experts on balancing immediate crisis management with future-focused strategies. Learn why leaders must prepare during calm times to build resilience and foster innovation.
In the “Corporate Explorer Fieldbook Finale,” Andy Binns and Eugene Ivanov share invaluable lessons on corporate innovation. They explore ambidexterity, the transformative role of AI, open innovation, and the importance of leadership in scaling new ventures. With practical advice and real-world examples, this episode is a must-listen for corporate innovators.
In this episode, Kristin von Donop discusses the challenges of leading innovation inside large organizations. She shares insights from The Corporate Explorer Fieldbook on building leadership movements that engage stakeholders and foster collaboration. Learn how to navigate resistance, involve key allies, and create momentum to drive lasting change and innovation
Aidan and David Rogers, the author of ‘The Digital Transformation Roadmap’ delve into the significant challenges and strategies for digital transformation within organisations. Key topics include overcoming psychological and organisational debt, technical capabilities required for transformation, the importance of suitable technology, retaining key talent, and evolving organisational culture. David also shares insights on governance and iterative funding, emphasising the need for smart shutdowns and resource allocation. The episode is packed with practical examples, including successful digital transformations at Walmart and Netflix. David’s profound experience and practical tools make this essential listening for business leaders and innovators.