Killer Innovations: Successful Innovators Talking About Creativity, Design And Innovation | Hosted By Phil Mckinney

When people ask how to land their first job in innovation, my story always surprises them. It wasn’t about finding the perfect job posting or waiting for an opportunity to knock. Instead, I created my opportunity. In 1992, I worked for a small company in Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, when Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) acquired it. The […]

When I walked into Elon Musk's office at Tesla in 2011, I knew I was about to see something remarkable, but I couldn't have predicted how mind-opening the experience would be. Elon Musk, known for revolutionizing industries through SpaceX and Tesla, has a way of questioning the world that feels almost childlike—but not in the […]

Albert Einstein once famously said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” This quote isn't just a glimpse into his genius and a revelation of the secret behind his groundbreaking discoveries. While his contemporaries were focused on scientific data and equations, Einstein's innovation secret lay in his ability to visualize complex concepts like riding alongside a […]

In the world of technology and innovation, building a model career often means evolving with industry changes, embracing risks, and showing resilience. Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with Nimrod Ben-Natan, CEO of Harmonic, whose career path is a true model for success in innovation. Starting as a software developer in the mid-90s, […]

Have you ever stopped to think about how you think? It may sound odd at first, but this process, known as metacognition, is one of the most powerful tools we have for improving our mental abilities. Metacognition is the act of being aware of your thoughts and thinking patterns, helping you understand how you process […]

Mental strength isn't just for high achievers; it's something we can all build. The first step to stopping being mentally weak is recognizing that mental strength doesn't mean never feeling fear or doubt. Instead, it's about pushing past these feelings to achieve your best. Let's dive into three strategies to break free from mental weakness […]

Innovation isn't a solo act. It's about finding the right people to journey with, blending skills, and creating a foundation built on trust and shared goals. At the recent Tech Expo, I sat down with my best friend and long-time partner, Harry Beane. We've shared years of collaboration, including launching Omnipoint—the first GSM mobile carrier […]

What do Apple's first mouse, the stand-up toothpaste tube, and the Palm V PDA have in common? They were all products of design thinking, a methodology that drives innovation and creativity to solve complex problems. Companies like IDEO, a leading expert in design thinking, have revolutionized product development and set the standard for innovation. But […]

Innovation confidence is a crucial mindset for anyone looking to excel in today's fast-paced world. The perfect blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and adaptability allows you to approach challenges with fresh perspectives. Whether aiming for personal growth or professional success, building innovation and confidence can make all the difference. This episode explores actionable tips and […]

Innovation is at the heart of transformation, and understanding how innovators think can unlock the potential for groundbreaking progress. Innovators don't just come up with ideas; they embody a mindset that fosters curiosity, resilience, and adaptability. By examining the core elements of the innovator's mindset, we can better understand the actions and attitudes that drive […]

The role of a Chief Innovation Officer (CINO) has become increasingly critical in today's fast-paced business landscape. As a relatively new member of the C-suite, the CINO serves as the driving force behind transformation and progress. However, this position is often fraught with challenges, with many CINOs having a brief tenure of fewer than two […]

With innovation fast-evolving, the terms innovation lab and innovation studio are often thrown around interchangeably, especially in Silicon Valley. However, despite their seemingly similar purposes, these two entities serve distinct roles in the journey from idea to implementation. Understanding their nuances can help organizations choose the right approach for their goals. What is an Innovation […]

Creating an innovation studio is essential for fostering creativity, developing ideas, and transforming concepts into reality. Whether you're an inventor, a designer, or a creative professional, having a dedicated space for your work is crucial. In this episode, we'll walk you through building your innovation studio, inspired by my experience setting up a multifunctional space […]

In today's fast-paced world, taking breaks is often underestimated. However, prioritizing time off is crucial to boost creativity and innovation. This simple yet effective strategy can significantly enhance productivity and lead to groundbreaking ideas. The Importance of Disconnecting During a two-week vacation with my family, I experienced firsthand the benefits of being completely disconnected from […]

Travel has always played a pivotal role in shaping my career and family life. During a recent podcast episode, I shared how travel influenced us unexpectedly. Here's a deeper dive into how embracing travel transformed our experiences and led to numerous opportunities. Travel and Family: Creating Lifelong Memories Our journey with travel began with a […]

The worst career advice I have ever received led me down a path that failed to result in success. Early in my career, I was advised to chase jobs based on salary and stability, with voices telling me to work for big, secure companies. However, I quickly learned there were better moves than prioritizing finances […]

During a recent lunch with interns, I shared the best career advice I ever received. Bob Davis, my mentor who hired me for my first job as a software programmer, imparted wisdom that has guided my career trajectory. Bob saw my potential and advised me to build more than technical skills. He moved me through […]

A well-defined career path is crucial for anyone aspiring to establish a successful career in innovation. The rapidly evolving landscape of innovation jobs demands a strategy to navigate its complexities effectively. An innovation career path is a roadmap clarifying the progression and milestones necessary to achieve your professional goals. It helps you identify the critical […]

A career in innovation means positioning yourself at the forefront of change, constantly seeking new ideas and approaches to solve problems and create value. It involves a continuous improvement mindset and a willingness to challenge the status quo. Innovators drive progress by blending creativity, analytical thinking, and a deep understanding of emerging trends and technologies. […]

Have you ever felt stuck staring at a blank page, struggling to find the spark to ignite your next great idea? Inspirational thinking skills often trigger that elusive moment where everything clicks, and your creativity flows effortlessly. These skills are the secret sauce behind groundbreaking innovations and the driving force that can turn mundane tasks […]