The Innovation Show

What happens when startups like Figma outpace industry giants like Adobe? In this episode of The Innovation Show, Aidan McCullen sits down with bestselling author Sangeet Paul Choudary (Platform Revolution, Reshuffle) to explore how AI, cloud technology, and mindset shifts are reshaping the future of work, design, and competition. Discover why incumbents often fail—not from lack of innovation, but from failing to unlearn old architectures. Using the case of Figma vs. Adobe, we unpack how element-based design, governance-led workflows, and AI-first thinkingare redefining industries from design to law to construction. Key takeaways: Why adapting mindsets matters more than adopting tools How AI is unbundling knowledge work and rewriting career paths The importance of governance in enterprise-wide collaboration Why the forgetting curve is as critical as the learning curve   Perfect for innovators, leaders, and professionals navigating the knowledge economy, this episode is a roadmap for thriving in a world of structural uncertainty where AI and cloud-native startups are rewriting the rules. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:17 The Hammer and the Nail: Misreading New Technology 00:28 Adobe vs. Figma: A Case Study in Innovation 01:03 The Importance of Mindset in Technological Shifts 01:20 Guest Introduction: Sanjeet Paul Choudary 01:49 Figma vs. Adobe: A Deep Dive 04:07 Technological Shifts and Organizational Change 05:57 The Impact of AI on Work and Careers 17:00 Governance vs. Execution in Modern Enterprises 18:22 The Future of Competition and Industry Structure 21:40 The Need for Unlearning in the Age of AI 24:34 Preparing for the Future: Skills and Careers 36:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 38:05 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Message   📚 Resources & Links • Reshuffle: Who Wins When AI Reshapes the Knowledge Economy → https://amzn.to/3HWwj1I • Platform Revolution → https://amzn.to/4mBq2aQ • Sangeet’s Substack → https://substack.com/@platforms/posts • Aidan’s show notes → https://thethursdaythought.substack.com 🎙️ Listen now to learn how to reshuffle your thinking, your organization, and your career for the AI-driven future.    

Harvard Business School legends Joe Bower and Clark Gilbert dive deep into the essence of strategy, challenging conventional top-down approaches. They emphasize the critical role of resource allocation in driving innovation, revealing how strategic decisions often emerge from internal dynamics. The duo shares insights on structural barriers to innovation, the importance of customer-centric problem-solving, and the disconnection between academia and practical application. Their rich experience offers invaluable wisdom for innovators and leaders alike.

Elise Loehnen, author of "On Our Best Behaviour," discusses how societal pressures shape women’s behaviors through the lens of the seven deadly sins. She shares her personal struggles, critiques the idea of perfection, and highlights the importance of embracing both masculine and feminine energies. The conversation delves into the complexities of envy, portraying it as a guide towards unfulfilled desires. Additionally, Elise explores the impact of historical narratives and gender dynamics, advocating for authenticity and emotional expression in both personal and professional spheres.

Unveiling the Gut-Brain Connection: Dr. Steven Gundry on Leaky Gut, Microbiome, and Health   In today's episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of the gut-brain connection with Dr. Steven Gundry, a prolific author and expert on the subject. Starting with a brief introduction about our sponsor, Kyndryl, we explore the historical context of medical insights from figures like Hippocrates and Ignaz Semmelweis. Dr. Gundry shares compelling stories from his practice, including miraculous patient turnarounds attributed to gut health. We discuss the latest in microbiome research, the concept of leaky gut, and how our gut's terrain influences overall health. Learn about the critical role of bacteria in our body's ecosystem, the intelligence of microorganisms, and their impact on our well-being. Join us as we unlock the secrets of a balanced inner terrain and its implications for a healthier life.   00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:30 Dedications and Historical Insights 02:06 Guest Introduction: Stephen Gundry 03:04 Remarkable Patient Stories 07:19 The Gut-Brain Connection 12:52 Historical Debate: Pasteur vs. Bechamp 16:58 Microbiome Discoveries and Implications 19:08 Bacterial Intelligence and Communication 26:29 Elephant Communication and Eavesdropping 27:04 Understanding Leaky Gut 27:52 Aging Research and Sea Elegans 29:45 The Role of Tight Junctions in Gut Health 32:46 Impact of Diet and Antibiotics on Gut Health 36:44 Environmental Toxins and Autoimmune Diseases 37:40 Lipopolysaccharides and Immune Response 42:03 The Rise of Food Sensitivities and Allergies 47:05 Gut Microbiome and Food Cravings 48:10 Conclusion and Resources Find Steven: https://drgundry.com

In this episode of the Innovation Show  we delve into the myths and realities of business failures with Greg Satell and Paul Nunes. Join us as we explore classic case studies of companies like Blockbuster, Kodak, and Xerox, and uncover the untold stories behind their perceived failures. We discuss the complexities of decision-making, the importance of controlling the narrative, and the crucial lessons business leaders can learn from past mistakes.    00:00 Welcome to the Innovation Show 01:55 The Innovator's Dilemma: A Classic Quote 02:05 Introducing the Guests: Greg Satel and Paul Nula 02:43 The Myth of Learning from Failures 03:07 Greg's Experience with Misaligned Case Studies 05:07 Paul's Perspective on Research and Interviews 05:17 The Complexity of Decision-Making in Organizations 15:30 The Blockbuster vs. Netflix Case Study 21:44 The Role of Leadership and Context in Business Decisions 43:45 Milking the Cash Cow: Challenges and Strategies 45:21 Blockbuster's Rapid DVD by Mail Transition 46:30 Adobe's Cloud Shift and Kodak's Digital Dilemma 48:42 Kodak's Struggle with Digital Photography 54:43 Fuji's Diversification Success 58:29 Intel's Missed Opportunities and Target Fixation 01:06:40 Xerox's Innovation and the Birth of the Laser Printer 01:20:44 Lessons from Xerox and Pixar's Origins 01:24:26 Empowering Emerging Leaders and Final Thoughts   Perfect for business leaders, strategists, and innovation professionals who want to move beyond the clichés and understand what truly drives long-term success—or failure.   Find Greg: https://gregsatell.com   Find Paul: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-nunes-5351773/   🔗 Listen on your favorite podcast platform or visit: https://theinnovationshow.io     🧠 Featuring:   Greg Satell – Author of Mapping Innovation Paul Nunes – Global Managing Director of Thought Leadership, Accenture Research Host: Aidan McCullen – Author of Undisruptable  

In this episode, we conclude the comprehensive series on Gary Hamel and 'Humanocracy,' diving deep into the principles and practices that can transform entrenched bureaucracies into more dynamic and innovative organizations. Host Aidan interviews Gary Hamel to discuss the persistent issue of bureaucracy stifling economic growth and the groundbreaking transformation at Roche as a case study. The conversation covers the increasing bureaucracy in global companies, the decline in productivity, and innovative methods like outcome-based planning and cross-functional squads to elevate organizational efficiency. The episode also emphasizes personal accountability and offers actionable steps for leaders aiming to foster a more adaptive and resilient work environment. This informative discussion is a must-watch for CEOs and business leaders looking to revolutionize their companies.   00:00 Introduction and Giveaway Announcement 00:52 The Problem with Bureaucracy in Organizations 06:16 Case Study: Roche's Transformation 11:16 Leadership Reboot and Principles at Roche 20:31 Implementing Change: Design Teams and I Squads 26:34 Outcome-Based Planning and Resource Allocation 29:53 Resource Allocation and Organizational Ethos 31:16 Resilience in the Face of Challenges 32:59 Leadership and Change Management 37:47 Cross-Functional Squads and Collaboration 42:43 Patient-Centric Approach 46:31 Personal Accountability and Bureaucracy 50:30 Experimentation and Innovation 56:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Find Gary  https://www.garyhamel.com

Gary Hamel, a Visiting Professor at London Business School and a prominent business thinker, discusses the groundbreaking principles from his book 'Humanocracy.' He highlights how companies like Nucor and Haier empower employees to act as entrepreneurs, fostering innovation. The conversation delves into the importance of decentralized decision-making, micro-enterprises, and a culture built on trust. Hamel emphasizes the need for a profound organizational reset to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape, showcasing how these models enhance efficiency and adaptability.

In this episode of The Gary Hamel Series, we explore the principles laid out in 'Humanocracy,' a manifesto that argues for liberating human capabilities from the stranglehold of bureaucracy. We delve into practical strategies for creating more dynamic, innovation-driven organizations. Special guest, Gary Hamel, discusses the economic and social implications of bureaucratic systems and presents alternative management models exemplified by companies like Morningstar and Nucor. We also reflect on personal anecdotes and shared experiences that highlight the soul-crushing effects of traditional bureaucratic structures. Thank you to our sponsor, Kyndryl, for supporting this series focused on harnessing technology for smarter decisions and faster innovation.   00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:58 Overview of Humanocracy 02:08 Gary Hamel's Return and Dedications 02:51 Audience Feedback and Testimonials 05:18 The Problem with Bureaucracy 09:46 Personal Anecdotes and Case Studies 17:37 Economic Implications of Bureaucracy 19:27 The Need for a New Management Model 38:26 Post-Bureaucratic Pioneers 39:28 The Shift in Mindset 39:45 Nucor's People-Centric Approach 41:01 The Bureaucratic Worldview 41:54 The Growth of Bureaucracy 44:04 The Persistence of Bureaucracy 45:44 The Role of Managers 55:29 Morningstar's Self-Management Model 01:01:58 The Importance of Principles 01:07:09 Concluding Thoughts and Future Topics 🎯 Subscribe now and follow the full Humanocracy playlist. #GaryHamel #Humanocracy #Bureaucracy #FutureOfWork #AidanMcCullen #InnovationShow #OrganizationalChange #EmployeeEmpowerment #Leadership #PostBureaucracy #Decentralization #StrategyExecution #BusinessInnovation  

In this discussion, Robert Burgelman, a Professor and expert in strategic innovation, dives deep into organizational adaptation. He explains the four types of strategic context processes and their implications for businesses. Key topics include the balancing act between positional advantages and distinctive competencies, along with the challenges of multi-business companies. Burgelman also shares insights on how leaders can address dilemmas posed by technological disruptions, drawing on case studies from Intel and other industry giants to illustrate his points.

In this engaging discussion, Robert Burgelman, a strategy and organizational evolution expert from Stanford, shares insights from his extensive research at Intel. He dives into the concept of strategic dissonance, explaining how day-to-day decisions often clash with long-term goals. Burgelman highlights key moments in Intel's history, explores the risks of strategic inertia leading to missed opportunities, and emphasizes the importance of adaptability in innovation. He also categorizes different organizational strategies, shedding light on how companies can thrive amidst change.