Episode 23 - Leadership Innovation

In this episode of A Student of Leadership, Rob Adams discusses the critical role of innovation in leadership. He emphasizes that innovation is not just about groundbreaking ideas but about fostering a culture where teams feel safe to experiment and learn from their mistakes. By creating an environment of psychological safety, leaders can encourage their teams to share ideas and take risks, ultimately leading to continuous improvement and growth. Adams provides practical strategies for leaders to cultivate innovation within their teams, highlighting the importance of celebrating attempts and fostering curiosity.

takeaways

• Innovation is about making things better every day.
• Great leaders build environments where curiosity beats comfort.
• At WD-40, they call failures 'learning moments'.
• Psychological safety is crucial for innovation.
• Leaders should respond positively to new ideas.
• Innovation requires a safe space for creativity.
• Teams often have ideas but lack permission to pursue them.
• Celebrate small risks and attempts, not just wins.
• Curiosity can be developed as a routine.
• Innovation is a leadership habit, not a genius requirement.

titles

• Fostering Innovation in Leadership
• Creating a Culture of Curiosity

Sound Bites

• "They call them learning moments."
• "Innovation isn't about being brilliant."
• "Celebrate attempts, not just wins."

Chapters

00:00

The Essence of Innovation in Leadership

03:45

Creating a Culture of Psychological Safety

06:45

Encouraging Continuous Improvement and Experimentation

07:25

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