
The Jens Heitland Show - Human Innovation
Welcome to The Jens Heitland Show, the podcast for innovative leaders. On this show, corporate innovator and serial entrepreneur Jens Heitland interviews world-class leaders and innovators, and answers questions live in a variety of formats. The goal of this podcast is to inspire more people to innovate businesses in a way that puts humans first. Innovation is not just a process, it's a whole system that requires leadership and support to thrive. To find out more, visit our show notes at https://www.jensheitland.com.
© All Content 2020-2025 - The Jens Heitland Show - Heitland Media Group
Latest episodes

Jan 18, 2024 • 56min
EP 231 Entrepreneurial Insights: Building Businesses, Overcoming Challenges, and Driving Success with Jason Skeesick
Let me introduce U.S. Army veteran and serial entrepreneur Jason Skeesick. Jason shares his journey on establishing Spear and Clover, his current venture created to transform businesses through strong leadership and innovative strategies. The discussion covers various facets of entrepreneurship, from the necessity of maintaining a military-like discipline and problem-solving approach, to the importance of a long-term focus while undertaking short-term actions. Insights into overcoming struggles, deriving lessons from failures, and the importance of building a community or tribe form a major part of the conversation. The chat also delves into how technology and data can be leveraged to drive personal and professional growth.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
00:31 The Journey to Entrepreneurship
01:49 Military Experience and Its Impact
07:13 The Transition from Military to Entrepreneurship
08:50 The Importance of Involvement in Business
19:15 The Role of Impact and Military Mindset in Entrepreneurship
26:20 Balancing Long Term Focus and Short Term Actions
29:32 The Importance of Details in Entrepreneurship
30:17 The Concept of Satisficing in Entrepreneurship
30:50 Understanding the Reasons Behind Success
31:34 The Power of Asking Better Questions
32:22 The Role of Interest in Entrepreneurship
33:33 Building a Community and Tribe
37:33 The Power of Authenticity and Personal Branding
38:42 The Importance of Understanding Customer Needs
46:34 The Power of Authentic Experiences in Marketing
52:57 Advice for Young Innovators
Guest Links:
Jason on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-skeesick-8959722a/
Jason on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonskeesick/?hl=en
Website Spear & Clover: https://www.spearandclover.com/
Spear and clover on X: https://twitter.com/spearandclover
Spear and Clover on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLvCzSRy8vrhjflYJUq8yTw
The Spear and Clover Podcast
Jens episode 73: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/73-human-innovation-with-jens-heitland/id1607873120?i=1000614875883
Link to the show:
Please find all resources like video, audio, show notes and as well some shorter clips of the episode at the show page: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome
Give a review:
If you enjoy this podcast, would you be so kind as to leave a short review, It takes less than 1 minute and really makes a difference to convince future interesting guests to join me for an interview.
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/human-innovation-the-jens-heitland-show/id1545043872
Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL?si=7307c301794b483e
Connect with me:
Sign up for my weekly Newsletter and get the latest Human Innovation News direct into your inbox. https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter
Follow me on social media:
https://www.jensheitland.com/links
My businesses Businesses:
Innovation Interim Management https://www.heitlandinnovation.com/
Leadership Platform https://www.wearesucceed.com/UpGREAT Production: https://www.upgreatproduction.com/

Jan 9, 2024 • 51min
EP 230: Public speaking - How to use your body as an instrument with Lauri Smith
In this podcast episode, public speaking and leadership coach Lauri Smith shares her insights on how authenticity and charisma can propel individuals up the corporate ladder. Throughout the discussion, she underlines the importance of staying true to oneself, tapping into personal charisma, embracing silence, and using breath to manifest one's core message.
Lauri’s unique conversation-based approach emphasizes the value of treating speaking engagements as a two-way interaction. She strongly believes that passionate and genuine communication isn’t about copying someone else's charisma but rather unearthing one's own authentic voice. Weaving personal stories with expert tips, Lauri provides a comprehensive roadmap for those wishing to improve their public speaking skills and executive presence, regardless of their cultural background or speaking style.
Moreover, Lauri and I explore the applicability of her coaching methods to different age groups, particularly underlining the importance of empowering young leaders.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:13 Understanding Charisma and Leadership
01:11 The Role of Charisma in Personal Development
04:03 Impact of Cultural Background on Public Speaking
05:31 The Power of Authenticity in Public Speaking
06:28 The Journey of a Public Speaking Novice
07:08 Overcoming Bad Habits in Public Speaking
10:07 The Importance of Breathing in Public Speaking
15:12 The Role of Energy and Volume in Public Speaking
17:17 The Influence of Theater on Public Speaking
30:09 The Art of Storytelling in Public Speaking
33:57 The Power of Intention in Public Speaking
38:49 The Role of Coaching in Leadership Development
44:26 The Importance of Authenticity in Leadership
47:57 The Speaker's Studio: A Space for Growth
50:26 Conclusion and Contact Information
Guest Links:
Voice Matters: https://voice-matters.com/
Speakers Studio: https://voice-matters.com/speakers-studio/
Lauri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/
Lauri on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/born2actsmith
Lauri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/
Lauri on X: https://twitter.com/LauriSmithLLC
Lauri on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh91RFKkYB7WF83p4_DG9Ug
Link to the show:
Please find all resources like video, audio, show notes and as well some shorter clips of the episode at the show page: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome
Give a review:
If you enjoy this podcast, would you be so kind as to leave a short review, It takes less than 1 minute and really makes a difference to convince future interesting guests to join me for an interview.
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/human-innovation-the-jens-heitland-show/id1545043872
Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL?si=7307c301794b483e
Connect with me:
Sign up for my weekly Newsletter and get the latest Human Innovation News direct into your inbox. https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter
Follow me on social media:
https://www.jensheitland.com/links
My businesses Businesses:
Innovation Interim Management https://www.heitlandinnovation.com/
Leadership Education for startups https://www.wearesucceed.com/

Jan 1, 2024 • 54min
EP 229: The power of your brain with Liam Naden
In this episode Jens Heitland hosts expert speaker, writer, researcher, and relationship coach, Liam Naden. They discuss how people can create true success in life by using their brains correctly. Liam shares his journey from aspiring child with a religion-oriented perspective on life to a multi-millionaire plagued with problems, to becoming enlightened about how the brain functions. He introduces his model around the four parts of the brain namely: Thinking, Emotional, Survival, and Creative brains and the roles they play. He emphasizes that fear is the enemy and by eliminating fear, your creative brain will be activated leading to greater clarity, inspiration, new ideas and opportunities. He also discusses his approach to creating better relationships and how this is equally relevant in a leadership context and ultimately applicable to achieve personal growth and success.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation
01:00 Liam Naden's Personal Journey to Success
05:02 The Downfall and Rebuilding
12:00 Understanding the Brain and Its Functions
20:18 The Four Parts of the Brain
23:52 The Impact of Stress on Brain Function
26:04 The Importance of the Creative Brain
26:39 The Entrepreneur's Perspective
28:22 Understanding Happiness and Fulfillment
28:52 The Role of the Brain in Our Lives
29:28 The Impact of Fear on Our Lives
30:18 Exploring Relationships from a Leadership Perspective
30:32 Building Healthy Relationships as a Leader
31:57 The Role of Fear in Relationships
32:51 Understanding Leadership and Fear
34:12 The Importance of Self-Responsibility in Relationships
35:27 The Role of Fear in Business and Leadership
42:53 The Impact of Fear on Our Personal and Professional Lives
44:18 Understanding the Concept of Marriage Uncounseling
48:09 Final Thoughts on Fear, Relationships, and Leadership
Guest Links:
Website: https://liamnaden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liamnaden/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LiamNaden
Link to the show:
Please find all resources like video, audio, show notes and as well some shorter clips of the episode at the show page: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome
Give a review:
If you enjoy this podcast, would you be so kind as to leave a short review, It takes less than 1 minute and really makes a difference to convince future interesting guests to join me for an interview.
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/human-innovation-the-jens-heitland-show/id1545043872
Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL?si=7307c301794b483e
Connect with me:
Sign up for my weekly Newsletter and get the latest Human Innovation News direct into your inbox. https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter
Follow me on social media:
https://www.jensheitland.com/links
My businesses Businesses:
Innovation Interim Management https://www.heitlandinnovation.com/
Leadership Education for startups https://www.wearesucceed.com/

Oct 22, 2023 • 1h 5min
EP 228: Innovation Breakfast Club Revival
In this fun Episode I reconnect with esteemed guests Josh, Werner, and Dennis for a stimulating reunion of the "Innovation Breakfast Club". This candid conversation traverses personal and professional journeys, while also addressing pressing issues that shape society today.
Topics include the art of asking meaningful questions, the nuances of building trust, and the importance of a human-centric approach in business, coupled with reflections on the concept of time.
Dive into this enriching dialogue and discover insights that resonate with our modern world.
Guest Links:
Joshua Nuttall: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-nuttall-xyz/
Werner Puchert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wernerpuchert/
Dennis Luijer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennisluijer/
Link to the show:
Please find all resources like video, audio, show notes and as well some shorter clips of the episode at the show page: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome
Give a review:
If you enjoy this podcast, would you be so kind as to leave a short review, It takes less than 1 minute and really makes a difference to convince future interesting guests to join me for an interview.
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/human-innovation-the-jens-heitland-show/id1545043872
Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL?si=7307c301794b483e
Join the community on Discord:
Join the 'Startup Leadership Community' on Discord!
A hub for startup leaders navigating from Pre-Seed to Series B, we foster discussions on effective leadership and innovation. Benefit from daily curated articles and a network of like-minded peers. Check out the link https://discord.gg/kqPJNZAEFN to join
Connect with me:
Sign up for my weekly Newsletter and get the latest Human Innovation News direct into your inbox. https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter
Follow me on social media:
https://www.jensheitland.com/links
My businesses Businesses:
Innovation Interim Management https://www.heitlandinnovation.com/
Leadership Platform https://www.wearesucceed.com/

Sep 16, 2023 • 1h 20min
EP 227: Proof of authenticity- How content creation can change businesses & People with Jeff Dolan
In this riveting episode of the Human Innovation Podcast, host Jens Heitland sits down with Jeff Dolan, the mastermind behind Wave, a revolutionary platform reshaping audio content marketing on social media. As a multi-faceted creative - a podcaster, musician, and award-winning filmmaker - Jeff shares a wealth of insights on the confluence of AI, podcasting, and filmmaking. Entrepreneurs and leaders, take note: Jeff delves deep into how podcasting can be an instrumental tool in branding and business growth. Plus, we explore the dynamic realm of content creation and the nuances of effective digital marketing. A must-listen for innovators, creators, and everyone in between! Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation with one of the industry's finest.
Guest Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dolan/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeffdolan?lang=en
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeffDolan
Web: https://jeffdolan.com/
Short Film Phase 6: https://youtu.be/_z0Vp89nfgM?si=oPCISxdH-Y8Mm272
Business: https://wavve.co/
Link to the show:
Please find all resources like video, audio, show notes and as well some shorter clips of the episode at the show page: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome
Give a review:
If you enjoy this podcast, would you be so kind as to leave a short review, It takes less than 1 minute and really makes a difference to convince future interesting guests to join me for an interview.
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/human-innovation-the-jens-heitland-show/id1545043872
Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL?si=7307c301794b483e
Connect with me:
Sign up for my weekly Newsletter and get the latest Human Innovation News direct into your inbox. https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter
Follow me on social media:
https://www.jensheitland.com/links
My businesses Businesses:
Innovation Interim Management https://www.heitlandinnovation.com/
Leadership Platform https://www.wearesucceed.com/

Aug 14, 2023 • 53min
EP 226: Redefining Spaces and Minds: The Creative Synergy of Visual Storytelling with Natalia and George
In this episode I am joined by two incredible visionaries from the world of design and visual storytelling.
First up, we have Natalia Talkowska, the award-winning founder of Natalka Design. As a six-time TEDx Speaker and global strategic communications specialist, Natalia is reimagining the ways businesses captivate and compel. With the groundbreaking Doodleledo movement under her belt, she has revolutionized team building and empowered non-artists across 25 countries. Her clientele spans the British Government, the Royal Family, and top-tier FTSE100 brands. With over a decade in the industry, Natalia has made waves as a Creative and Art Director, Visual Innovator, and a distinguished guest lecturer at Central Saint Martins and Imperial College.
Joining Natalia is the incomparable George Berlin, an award-winning director known for his unparalleled aesthetic. George's projects are a testament to his knack for storytelling on a grand scale. From painting love stories on Sydney's facades to bringing Frida Kahlo's passion to life on the world's largest permanent digital display, his work is both enthralling and captivating. He has showcased his expertise on some of the world's most prestigious stages, from Romania's iMapp Bucharest Winners League of Projection Mapping to wowing audiences at BLINK Cincinnati, America's largest light festival.
We delve deep into the world of visual storytelling with the talented Natalia and George. While Natalia's doodles engage minds visually, translating abstract information into tangible visuals, George's work transforms spaces, urging people to engage uniquely and innovatively. Together, they emphasize the essence of creativity, not just in what we see but in the entire process leading up to it. Both experts stress the importance of strategic innovation and the power of visuals in changing perceptions. Join us as we uncover the profound impact of visuals on human behavior, the importance of strategic questioning, and how everyone, at their core, is innately creative.
Guest Links:
Natalia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliatalkowska/
Natalia Business: https://www.natalkadesign.com/
George on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeberlinanimation/
George Business: www.georgeberlin.com
Link to the show:
Please find all resources like video, audio, show notes and as well some shorter clips of the episode at the show page: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome
Give a review:
If you enjoy this podcast, would you be so kind as to leave a short review, It takes less than 1 minute and really makes a difference to convince future interesting guests to join me for an interview.
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/human-innovation-the-jens-heitland-show/id1545043872
Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL?si=7307c301794b483e
Join the community on Discord:
Join the 'Startup Leadership Community' on Discord!
A hub for startup leaders navigating from Pre-Seed to Series B, we foster discussions on effective leadership and innovation. Benefit from daily curated articles and a network of like-minded peers. Check out the link https://discord.gg/kqPJNZAEFN to join
Connect with me:
Sign up for my weekly Newsletter and get the latest Human Innovation News direct into your inbox. https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter
Follow me on social media:
https://www.jensheitland.com/links
My businesses Businesses:
Innovation Interim Management https://www.heitlandinnovation.com/
Leadership Education for startups https://www.wearesucceed.com/

Jul 2, 2023 • 44min
EP 225: The Happy Meal for Startups? with Marco Torres
What can Startups learn from MCDonalds and Amazon? Marco Torres is the Founder of MarketingBoost.com, he has helped thousands of business owners worldwide boost sales and scale their businesses through the use of incentive-based marketing. He teaches entrepreneurs how to soar sales & marketing through the use of “Value-Add-Incentives” instead of discounts. His Facebook Group is home to more than 27,000 active business owners who are raking in sales with his advice and amazingly affordable subscription program.
In this episode we cover marketing and sales for startups and solo entrepreneurs, Marco shares a methodology from Amazon and McDonalds where entrepreneurs can add value to their offer through value added marketing.
Guest Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/6101960marcotorres/
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingboostofficial
Marketing Boost: https://www.marketingboost.com/
Marketing Solutions: https://marketingboostsolutions.com/
Link to the show:
Please find all resources like video, audio, show notes and as well some shorter clips of the episode at the show page: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome
Give a review:
If you enjoy this podcast, would you be so kind as to leave a short review, It takes less than 1 minute and really makes a difference to convince future interesting guests to join me for an interview.
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/human-innovation-the-jens-heitland-show/id1545043872
Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL?si=7307c301794b483e
Join the community on Discord:
Join the 'Startup Leadership Community' on Discord!
A hub for startup leaders navigating from Pre-Seed to Series B, we foster discussions on effective leadership and innovation. Benefit from daily curated articles and a network of like-minded peers. Check out the link https://discord.gg/kqPJNZAEFN to join
Connect with me:
Sign up for my weekly Newsletter and get the latest Human Innovation News direct into your inbox. https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter
Follow me on social media:
https://www.jensheitland.com/links
My businesses Businesses:
Innovation Interim Management https://www.heitlandinnovation.com/
Leadership Education for startups https://www.wearesucceed.com/

Jun 12, 2023 • 53min
EP 224: Dismantling Perfect Facades - Navigating Failure, Success, and Self-Discovery with Linda Perry
Linda Perry is a specialist in success strategies who masterfully blends mindset methodologies with strategic execution to help small business entrepreneurs unlock new levels of achievement.
With a unique background that spans law and copywriting, Linda now utilizes her persuasive talents to guide business owners in expanding their ventures and realizing their desired impact.
This episode offers a glimpse into Linda's personal journey, charting her path from law school to becoming a renowned success strategist and coach. We also delve into the prevalent hurdles faced by innovative leaders and entrepreneurs, and how to surmount them.
Guest Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindamperry/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linda.m.perry/
Website https://lindamperry.com/
Podcast: https://lindamperry.com/podcast/
Link to the show:
Please find all resources like video, audio, show notes and as well some shorter clips of the episode at the show page: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome
Give a review:
If you enjoy this podcast, would you be so kind as to leave a short review, It takes less than 1 minute and really makes a difference to convince future interesting guests to join me for an interview.
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/human-innovation-the-jens-heitland-show/id1545043872
Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL?si=7307c301794b483e
Join the community on Discord:
Join the 'Startup Leadership Community' on Discord!
A hub for startup leaders navigating from Pre-Seed to Series B, we foster discussions on effective leadership and innovation. Benefit from daily curated articles and a network of like-minded peers. Check out the link https://discord.gg/kqPJNZAEFN to join
Connect with me:
Sign up for my weekly Newsletter and get the latest Human Innovation News direct into your inbox. https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter
Follow me on social media:
https://www.jensheitland.com/links
My businesses Businesses:
Innovation Interim Management https://www.heitlandinnovation.com/
Leadership Education for startups https://www.wearesucceed.com/

May 23, 2023 • 44min
EP 223: Tune your career with Fatemah Mirza
Fatemah Mirza is a Certified Resume Master who has been helping job seekers with their resumes for the past 13 years. She owns a company named CareerTuners. CareerTuners is a small team of skilled professionals from various industries who specialize in providing professional resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, and much more career-related services to help ambitious people land their dream jobs and achieve career goals.
In this episode we talk about how to find the right job for you, how to prepare for a job interview, negotiate your salary and more.
Guest Links:
Website: https://careertuners.com/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/careertuners/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CareerTuners
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/careertipsfromct/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/careertuners1
Link to the show:
Please find all resources like video, audio, show notes and as well some shorter clips of the episode at the show page: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome
Give a review:
If you enjoy this podcast, would you be so kind as to leave a short review, It takes less than 1 minute and really makes a difference to convince future interesting guests to join me for an interview.
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/human-innovation-the-jens-heitland-show/id1545043872
Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL?si=7307c301794b483e
Connect with me:
Sign up for my weekly Newsletter and get the latest Human Innovation News direct into your inbox. https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter
Follow me on social media:
https://www.jensheitland.com/links
My businesses Businesses:
Innovation Interim Management https://www.heitlandinnovation.com/
Leadership Education for startups https://www.wearesucceed.com/

May 15, 2023 • 52min
EP 222: Rehumanize Leadership with Hamza Khan
Hamza Khan is a well-known keynote speaker, best-selling author, and award-winning entrepreneur. He is recognized for his TEDx talk "Stop Managing, Start Leading," which has been viewed over two million times. Khan advocates for rehumanizing workplaces to achieve inclusive and sustainable growth, inspiring purposeful productivity, nurturing lasting resilience, and navigating constant change.
In this episode we explore the future of work, Hamza shares more about his experience after the TED Talk and we discuss needed leadership changes and how we build a more human centered world.
Guest Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khanhamza
Web: https://www.hamzakhan.ca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hamzak
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HamzaK
TED Talk: Stop Managing Start Leading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_HHnEROy_w
Link to the show:
Please find all resources like video, audio, show notes and as well some shorter clips of the episode at the show page: https://www.jensheitland.com/podcasthome
Give a review:
If you enjoy this podcast, would you be so kind as to leave a short review, It takes less than 1 minute and really makes a difference to convince future interesting guests to join me for an interview.
Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/human-innovation-the-jens-heitland-show/id1545043872
Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7H0GWMGVALyXnnmstYA1NL?si=7307c301794b483e
Connect with me:
Sign up for my weekly Newsletter and get the latest Human Innovation News direct into your inbox. https://www.jensheitland.com/newsletter
Follow me on social media:
https://www.jensheitland.com/links
My businesses Businesses:
Innovation Interim Management https://www.heitlandinnovation.com/
Leadership Education for startups https://www.wearesucceed.com/