Catalyst Podcast Combining tech and creativity in an AI world: With Leslie Shannon
Aug 12, 2025
Leslie Shannon, Head of Trend and Innovation Scouting at Nokia and author of *Virtual Natives*, dives into the fascinating blend of technology and creativity. She discusses the transformative impact of Gen Z on traditional industries and the importance of innovative approaches. Leslie shares insights on how to reshape jobs to align better with personal and company values. The conversation also touches on the future of retail technology and the significance of storytelling in understanding complex advancements like the metaverse.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Jeopardy Win Catalyzed Her Career
- Leslie won Jeopardy! five times and that launched multiple job offers that changed her career path.
- That visibility led her into computing, mobile billing, and eventually a long career at Nokia.
Art Revealed Human Behavior
- Leslie combined science training with art history to better understand humans and creativity.
- She says art revealed human behavior more clearly than dissecting rat brains did for her.
Evolve Your Job By Filling Gaps
- Start with the job you get and evolve it into something that suits you and serves the company.
- Don’t wait for permission; demonstrate value and let customers or champions pull the new role into being.
