Author Sally Susman discusses the power of communication, sharing insights from her career at top companies like Pfizer and Estee Lauder. Topics include the misconception of communication as a soft skill, the importance of gratitude, challenges in the pharmaceutical industry, and innovative leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Authors Rob C. Wolcott and Kaihan Krippendorff discuss the proximity revolution, showcasing how digital technologies are revolutionizing industries by bringing custom products and services closer to consumers. They explore examples like vertical farming and on-demand 3D printing, highlighting the impact on sustainability and customer personalization. The conversation also delves into the strategic implications for businesses, emphasizing the importance of visionary thinking and practical applications.

Wendy Smith, co-author of 'Both/And Thinking,' discusses the role of emotions in problem-solving and the importance of embracing discomfort for innovation. Topics include tools for managing tensions, pausing for reflection, dynamic adaptation, case studies on Honda and Unilever, leadership in paradox management, and practical tips for leaders.

Expert in ecosystem playbooks, Christine Griffin, discusses Best Buy's journey into home health market through partnerships and acquisitions. Topics include value creation, mapping ecosystem players, scaling paths, and stakeholder involvement in corporate innovation.

In this episode, we are joined again by Wendy Smith,  co-author of 'Both/And Thinking: Embrace Creative Tensions to Solve Your Toughest Problems.'      Wendy elaborates on the nuances between dilemmas, paradoxes, and tensions, emphasising that these terms are not interchangeable and revealing the psychological and practical implications of recognising and navigating paradoxes. Drawing from her personal experiences and research, Wendy illustrates how both/and thinking can be applied to career decisions, organisational challenges, and broader societal issues. She discusses the limitations of either/or thinking and the harmful patterns it can create, such as intensification, overcorrection, and polarisation.    Using examples from companies like Lego and Gore, Wendy shows how balancing tradition and innovation, centralisation and decentralisation, and other competing demands can lead to more sustainable success. The conversation also delves into the four types of paradoxes: learning, performing, organising, and belonging, and explores strategies to manage these tensions effectively.    This episode is essential for anyone facing complex decisions in their personal or professional life.   00:00 Introduction to Both/And Thinking 00:12 Understanding Tensions and Dilemmas 03:08 Defining Paradox and Its Importance 05:23 Embracing Paradoxes in Real Life 08:00 Conditions That Highlight Paradoxes 16:51 Exploring the Four Types of Paradoxes 23:28 Navigating Organisational Paradoxes 31:23 The Paradox System Framework 36:57 Lego's Journey Through Paradox 45:40 Conclusion and Further Resources   Find Wendy here: https://bothandthinking.net/book/ And on Substack here: https://wendyksmith.substack.com   Wendy Smith, Both and Thinking, Aidan McCullen, innovation, paradox, decision making, leadership, career challenges, tension management, creativity, organisational behaviour, success, problem solving, conflict resolution

Wendy Smith, co-author of 'Both/And Thinking,' discusses the importance of navigating paradoxes in personal and professional decisions. She explores how companies like Lego balance tradition and innovation, highlighting the limitations of either/or thinking. Wendy also delves into the four types of paradoxes and strategies to manage them effectively.

Expert Alexander Pett discusses leading high-stakes conversations for corporate innovation, emphasizing productive tension and strategic communication in senior team settings. Topics include engaging stakeholders, effective dialogue frameworks, and cultivating empathy in leadership to secure executive buy-in for innovative ideas.

NYU Stern ethics professor Alison Taylor discusses ethical challenges in business, advocating for human dignity and respect. They explore shifts in business ethics, stakeholder capitalism, and the role of leadership. The conversation emphasizes addressing systemic issues, fostering ethical cultures, and creating sustainable businesses.

In this episode, innovation expert Vanessa Ceia discusses the shift from inside-out to outside-in mindset in corporate exploration. She highlights the importance of customer discovery interviews to overcome biases and drive sustainable innovation. Topics include stages of innovation, stakeholder feedback, mastering the interview process, and fostering effective innovation ecosystems.

Teresa Amabile, expert in workplace motivation, discusses the importance of making small progress in meaningful work for positive emotions and high motivation. Key topics include clear goals, autonomy, supportive events, and upcoming book on retirement. Managers urged to recognize the impact of small wins on employee motivation and inner work-life. Amabile's research highlights the need for leaders to create a supportive environment that fosters progress and innovation.