iNNOVATION Insights Podcast

Dr. Eulanda A. Sanders

The insightful Dr. Eulanda Sanders hosts the iNNOVATION Insights podcast, which welcomes a mosaic of voices from different backgrounds, industries, and expertise, converging on a singular goal: to explore the multifaceted realm of innovation. Eulanda deftly navigates conversations that unearth the macro and micro nuances of what it truly means to innovate, from entrepreneurs to researchers to thinkers to creators. But this is not just a podcast. It is a challenge. It is a challenge to ignite a flame of curiosity in every listener and to inspire them to look at the world through the lens of possibility.

  1. Higher Ed Innovation, Community Learning & Leadership | Dr. Lance Bennett | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 72

    2D AGO

    Higher Ed Innovation, Community Learning & Leadership | Dr. Lance Bennett | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 72

    What does innovation in higher education look like when it centers community, access, and learning for the common good? In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders speaks with Dr. Lance Bennett, President and Founder of The People’s Institute for the Common Good, Visiting Scholar at Rutgers University, and higher education leader. Dr. Bennett shares his journey from community college student to scholar-practitioner and how early mentorship shaped his path into higher education leadership. This conversation explores how communication studies, organizational leadership, and systems thinking inform Dr. Bennett’s work in designing community-centered learning spaces. He reflects on launching The People’s Institute to create open, accessible learning spaces beyond traditional universities—through programs such as community book clubs, virtual Lunch & Learns, and a distinguished speaker series. ⚫Key topics include: ◾Why community-based learning matters in the future of higher education ◾Lessons from launching a nonprofit learning institute ◾Building partnerships between universities and communities ◾Rethinking enrollment, access, and alternative education models ◾How higher education can respond to AI, workforce shifts, and ethics ◾Leading with values, imagination, and courage Whether you are an educator, higher ed leader, nonprofit founder, or community innovator, this episode offers a powerful lens on how to reimagine learning spaces for impact and equity. Subscribe for more conversations with innovators shaping education, leadership, and community transformation. ⚫Connect with Lance ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lancekylebennett/ ◾Substack: https://substack.com/@instituteforcommongood ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

    49 min
  2. From Classroom to Global Impact: Identity, Innovation & Educator Empowerment | Kwame Sarfo-Mensah | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 71

    6D AGO

    From Classroom to Global Impact: Identity, Innovation & Educator Empowerment | Kwame Sarfo-Mensah | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 71

    In this powerful episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders sits down with Kwame Sarfo-Mensah, founder of Identity Talk Consulting, educator, author, and global leader in culturally responsive, identity-affirming education. Kwame shares his journey from middle school math teacher to international consultant supporting educators across the United States and African countries. This conversation explores how lived experience and cultural identity shape innovation in education. Kwame reflects on growing up as a first-generation Ghanaian American and how those experiences fueled his commitment to equity and empowering educators of color. He also discusses building Identity Talk Consulting and launching the Identity Talk 4 Educators LIVE podcast to support culturally affirming classrooms. Kwame introduces his award-winning book, Learning to Relearn: Supporting Identity in a Culturally Affirming Classroom, and shares practical advice for educators seeking to become thought leaders, build a digital presence, and use content creation for professional growth. ⚫ In this episode, you will learn: ◾ How identity shapes teaching, leadership, and student engagement ◾ Why culturally affirming classrooms are essential for equity in education ◾ How educators can become innovators and content creators ◾ Lessons from building an education consulting business ◾ How to support teacher empowerment and anti-bias, anti-racist practices ◾ Why “learning to relearn” is essential for personal and professional growth Kwame’s story is a powerful reminder that innovation in education is not only about new tools or technology, but about reimagining identity, power, voice, and belonging in learning spaces around the world. ⚫Connect with Kwame ◾Identity Talk Consulting Website – https://identitytalk4educators.com/ ◾Learning To Relearn – https://learning2relearn.com ◾LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/kwame-sarfo-mensah ◾YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kwamesarfo-mensah5785 ◾Instagram: https://instagram.com/kwam_the_identity_shaper ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

    1h 1m
  3. Global Fashion, Gender Policy & Fulbright Research | Dr. Cydni Robertson | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 70

    FEB 12

    Global Fashion, Gender Policy & Fulbright Research | Dr. Cydni Robertson | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 70

    How do gender policy, culture, and the global apparel supply chain intersect—and what does innovation look like inside that complexity? In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders sits down with Dr. Cydni Robertson, scholar, storyteller, and global researcher whose work explores gender inequality, political change, and labor conditions within the global fashion and apparel industry. Dr. Robertson shares her journey from early experiences in fashion and textile education to earning her doctorate and conducting Fulbright-funded research in El Salvador, where she interviewed women working in apparel factories. She reflects on how witnessing labor conditions reshaped her research agenda and deepened her commitment to people-centered innovation in fashion systems. ⚫In this conversation, you will learn: ◾What Dr. Robertson discovered about women’s labor, opportunity, and resilience in global apparel supply chains ◾How Fulbright research and living abroad transformed her perspective as a scholar and educator ◾Why experiential learning and global research matter for fashion and textile education ◾How social sustainability goes beyond materials to include people, policy, and culture ◾Lessons for students and scholars interested in international research and ethical fashion systems ◾Practical advice for conducting research abroad, building community, and prioritizing safety Dr. Robertson also shares insights on personal branding in academia, building community through social media, and how storytelling can expand the public impact of scholarly work. Whether you are a student, researcher, educator, designer, or innovator, this episode offers a powerful lens on how innovation emerges at the intersection of fashion, policy, culture, and lived experience. ⚫Connect with Cydni ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cydnimrobertson/ ◾TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.cydrobertson ⚫ Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact

    55 min
  4. Mentors, Milk & Dairy Innovations: Creamery Creations to Sensory Science | Dr. Stephanie Clark | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 69

    FEB 9

    Mentors, Milk & Dairy Innovations: Creamery Creations to Sensory Science | Dr. Stephanie Clark | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 69

    What does innovation look like in food science, dairy research, and mentorship? In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders interviews Dr. Stephanie Clark, a nationally recognized food scientist and dairy researcher with over 30 years of experience in dairy chemistry, microbiology, processing, and sensory evaluation. Dr. Clark shares her journey from growing up in 4-H on a small farm to becoming a leader in dairy science and higher education. She reflects on discovering food science “by accident,” building hands-on learning environments, and leading the revival of the Iowa State University Creamery—a project that blended innovation, storytelling, student leadership, and industry collaboration. ⚫This episode explores: ◾How mentorship shapes the next generation of scientists ◾What it takes to build experiential learning environments like a university creamery ◾The role of sensory evaluation in product development and food quality ◾Research insights from dairy science, goat milk, and milk quality studies ◾How innovation happens at the intersection of science, creativity, and problem-solving ◾Why asking “why” is one of the most powerful leadership tools in STEM Dr. Clark also discusses emerging trends in food science, including protein-forward products, clean labels, sustainability in frozen foods, and how dairy innovation can support health, wellness, and environmental goals. Whether you are a student, educator, researcher, or innovator, this conversation offers practical insights into how innovation unfolds in real-world science, education, and industry. ⚫Connect with Stephanie ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-clark-143a93328/ ◾First Impressions Website: https://firstimpressions.fit/ ◾Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.clark.7121 ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact

    1h 6m
  5. Equity & Career Belonging with Bridgette Johnson, MS | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 68

    09/27/2025

    Equity & Career Belonging with Bridgette Johnson, MS | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 68

    In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, Dr. Eulanda Sanders welcomes Bridgette Johnson, MS—transformational higher education leader, equity strategist, and founder of "That Bridge." Bridgette shares her inspiring journey from first-generation student to national leader in higher education, and why she is committed to creating equity-centered career pathways that prepare students not only to be “career ready” but also to belong in the workplace truly. Bridgette discusses her 30+ years of impact in higher education, her philosophy of leadership rooted in empathy, listening, and empowerment, and the vision behind "That Bridge"—a consulting firm building intentional connections between higher education and industry. She also shares powerful insights on mentorship, belonging, and supporting mid-career professionals, as well as her upcoming programming with iNNOVATION Insights. ⚫ Key topics include: ◾Navigating barriers as a Black woman in higher education ◾The difference between career readiness and career belonging ◾Misconceptions about equity-centered internships and talent development ◾How universities can better prepare students for careers ◾The vision and mission of That Bridge ◾Advice for emerging and mid-career professionals in higher education Bridgette reminds us that innovation is intentional problem-solving across differences, co-creating new ideas that break down barriers and build community. ⚫Connect with Bridgette: ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridgette-johnson-4577509/ ◾That Bridge LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/that-bridge/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

    52 min
  6. Flourish 2025: Kirkwood Community College Fashion Show | Innovation, Design & Student Creativity | iNNOVATION Insights Podcast | Ep67

    09/22/2025

    Flourish 2025: Kirkwood Community College Fashion Show | Innovation, Design & Student Creativity | iNNOVATION Insights Podcast | Ep67

    How does a fashion program bring together students, faculty, and community to create a show that celebrates innovation, artistry, and collaboration? In this episode of INNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders spotlights the team behind Kirkwood Community College’s 2025 “Flourish” Fashion Show: ◾Dr. Elisha Stanley – Program Director and Professor of Apparel Merchandising and Design ◾Stacy Menard – Fashion Show Director ◾Samantha Zaruba – Fashion Show Director ◾Emma Newhouse – Model Coordinator Together, they share the story of how “Flourish” came to life—highlighting the themes of sustainability, innovation, and empowerment that shaped the runway. The conversation delves into the behind-the-scenes work of producing a large-scale student show, the skills students acquire in design, merchandising, and event management, and the lasting impact on both participants and audiences. This episode offers inspiration and insights for students, educators, designers, and anyone passionate about the future of fashion education. ⚫Key topics include: ◾The vision and theme behind Flourish 2025 ◾Building a collaborative fashion program experience ◾Showcasing innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity on the runway ◾Student growth through leadership and hands-on learning ◾How fashion shows prepare graduates for real-world careers The Kirkwood team proves that when creativity and education come together, the results are nothing short of transformative. ⚫Connect with Kirkwood Community College Fashion Program and Our Guests: ◾Website: https://www.kirkwood.edu/programs/degrees/arts-design/apparel-merchandising ◾Dr. Elisha Stanley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/april-elisha-stanley-ph-d-680ba063/ ◾Stacy Menard LinkedIn: N/A ◾Samantha Zaruba LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-zaruba-768bb828b/ ◾Emma Newhouse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-newhouse-130b58263/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

    38 min
  7. Are Hospitality Degrees Still Worth It? | Dr. Valerie Salter | iNNOVATION Insights Podcast | Ep. 66

    09/09/2025

    Are Hospitality Degrees Still Worth It? | Dr. Valerie Salter | iNNOVATION Insights Podcast | Ep. 66

    How can higher education better prepare students for the fast-paced, people-centered world of hospitality? In this inspiring episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders speaks with Dr. Valerie Salter—Department Chair, educator, and consultant—about her career journey from working in guest service and fine dining to leading a hospitality program through accreditation and launching innovative experiential learning initiatives. Valerie shares how her industry background has shaped her teaching philosophy, why soft skills and elevator pitches are more important than ever, and how strategic industry partnerships create genuine opportunities for students. She also delves into the process of integrating national industry certifications into coursework, leading international travel experiences, and striking a balance between academic rigor and hands-on training. ⚫Key topics include: ◾Hospitality career pathways and leadership in higher education ◾Designing meaningful experiential learning programs ◾Accreditation success strategies and team collaboration ◾Balancing industry experience with academic standards ◾The power of mentorship and professional networks ◾Innovations in curriculum, including online program development ◾Food safety research in festivals and cultural tourism Whether you are an educator, hospitality professional, or student, this episode offers actionable insights for building programs that prepare graduates for real-world success. ⚫Connect with Valerie ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriesalterphd/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact

    41 min
  8. How To Build Generational Wealth (Financial Wellness) | Ray'Chel Wilson | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 65 Podcast

    09/07/2025

    How To Build Generational Wealth (Financial Wellness) | Ray'Chel Wilson | iNNOVATION Insights | Ep. 65 Podcast

    How can financial education heal generational trauma and build wealth for future generations? In this powerful episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders speaks with Ray’Chel Wilson — nationally recognized solutionist, financial therapist, educator, and founder of For Our Last Names. Ray’Chel shares her inspiring journey from public health and Teach for America to launching an innovative platform that turns financial trauma into financial traction. From developing the Black Wealth Freedom Workbook Series to building a financial wellness app with an 80%+ positive impact rating, Ray’Chel offers actionable strategies for students, professionals, and organizations to create meaningful change. She also dives into the history and legacy of Tulsa’s Black Wall Street, the science of financial resilience, and her frameworks, like The Pace of Productivity and Money Mindset/Money Moves workshops. ⚫This episode delivers valuable insights on: ◾How to align money values with consistent financial actions ◾Addressing financial trauma and shifting to abundance thinking ◾The role of education, mentorship, and community in economic justice ◾Building resilience through behavioral finance and wellness practices ◾Creating scalable systems for individual and institutional impact Whether you are a first-generation wealth builder, an educator, a corporate leader, or an innovator, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to redefine financial success — for your last name and the generations to come. ⚫Connect with Ray'Chel ◾Personal Website: https://raychelwilson.com/ ◾For Our Last Names Website: https://www.forourlastnames.io/ ◾LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raychelwilson/ ⚫Subscribe to iNNOVATION Insights News https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/contact ⚫iNNOVATION Insights - https://www.innovation-and-insights.com/

    59 min

About

The insightful Dr. Eulanda Sanders hosts the iNNOVATION Insights podcast, which welcomes a mosaic of voices from different backgrounds, industries, and expertise, converging on a singular goal: to explore the multifaceted realm of innovation. Eulanda deftly navigates conversations that unearth the macro and micro nuances of what it truly means to innovate, from entrepreneurs to researchers to thinkers to creators. But this is not just a podcast. It is a challenge. It is a challenge to ignite a flame of curiosity in every listener and to inspire them to look at the world through the lens of possibility.