In this episode, we explore the exhilarating—and sometimes terrifying—landscape of disruption with innovation expert Scott Anthony, author of Epic Disruptions. Together, we examine the rapid shifts happening across every industry and what it takes not just to survive, but to lead through change with courage and creativity.
We discuss why disruption is as much about human behavior as it is about technology, and highlight the critical missteps leaders make when they listen only to their best customers. Scott shares stories from history, from the early days of the printing press to the dawn of the iPhone, revealing the hidden patterns of how real innovation emerges. We also dig into the “shadow” cast by epic disruptions—the unforeseen challenges, culture clashes, and the uncomfortable process of rewriting rules in real time.
Scott explains how disruption often begins on the margins, serving unlikely customers and overlooked markets, and why innovation is a “collectively individualistic” pursuit that requires both lone sparks and community effort. Finally, we discuss practical steps for leaders to keep their organizations alert to opportunity: experiencing “tomorrow, today,” fostering playful experimentation, and nurturing cultures that let the sparks of creativity catch fire.
Five Key Learnings from This Episode:
- Disruption is about behavior, not just technology: True innovation only matters if it changes how people act, not just what tools they use.
- Listening to your best customers can blind you: When markets shift, incumbent leaders often miss game-changing opportunities by focusing too narrowly on current power users’ demands.
- The “shadow” of disruption is real: Disruption isn’t universally good; it often generates resistance, unintended consequences, and a messy mid-transition period that leaders must thoughtfully navigate.
- Innovations start at the edges: The next big thing rarely comes from the center of mainstream markets; instead, pay attention to niche users and unexpected applications.
- Innovation is a team sport: Breakthrough ideas depend on collaboration across disciplines and generations, and thrive in environments that make experimentation fun, not fearful.
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