Harvesting Innovation - Daniel Theobald - Shift & Thrive - Episode # 031

What if the key to unlocking groundbreaking innovation wasn’t just about hiring the right talent or hosting occasional brainstorming sessions, but rather about fundamentally reshaping how organizations operate? In this episode of Shift and Thrive, Natalie sits down with Daniel Theobald, a visionary in robotics and a pioneer in fostering innovation within organizations. Daniel shares invaluable insights on how businesses can cultivate a culture of innovation, support employee well-being, and make a lasting impact on society. We explore everything from overcoming bureaucratic roadblocks to the role of health and wellness in driving creativity. If you're looking for actionable strategies to transform your organization and lead with purpose, this conversation is for you.

Takeaways:
~ Organizational transformation requires more than surface-level adjustments. Be prepared to make deep structural changes to support innovation. 
~ Recognize that not everyone will thrive in an innovative environment. Find and support those who are naturally inclined towards taking risks and thinking creatively. 
~ Create safe environments. Innovation flourishes when employees feel safe to express their ideas and take risks without fear of punishment. Building a culture of safety is crucial. 
~ While maintaining core operations, create separate units or teams that can focus solely on innovation without constraints. Encourage a culture of experimentation.
~ Employee well-being directly impacts their creativity and productivity. Promote good sleep, exercise, and healthy eating habits.
~ When making decisions, trust your instincts. If an idea feels right, have the courage to pursue it despite skepticism from others.
~ Give back. Foster a culture of community service within your organization. This not only benefits society but also creates a caring and engaged workforce.

Quote of the Show:
~ “ Innovation is about trying lots of things, failing, learning from that, and then trying again. If you’re not free to make mistakes, it’s unlikely that you’re going to move the needle much.”

Links:
~ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-theobald/ 
~ Mekable: http://www.mekable.com/ 
~ Twisted Fields: http://www.twistedfields.com/ 
~ Venca Robotics: http://vecnarobotics.com/ 
~ MassRobotics: http://massrobotics.org/ 

Ways to Tune In:
~ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2D1YbT2QhKxIwbREpU7EMb 
~ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-thrive-ceo-insights-on-driving-change/id1740828813 
~ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/fa60b654-1955-4055-93df-fdd40c2a5c8f/shift-thrive-ceo-insights-on-driving-change 
~ iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-shift-thrive-ceo-insights-166792501 
~ Pandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/shift-and-thrive-ceo-insights-on-driving-change/PC:1001086797  

This show is sponsored by Magnetude Consulting, bringing you the thinking-Power of a Growth Consultancy and the Getting-It-Done Power of a full-service B2B Marketing Agency. 
Learn more at: https://www.magnetudeconsulting.com