The Innovation Meets Leadership Podcast Natalie Born

Is ESG compliance becoming a necessity for companies to maintain their customer base and grow their business?

In this thought-provoking episode of the Innovation Meets Leadership podcast, host Natalie Born sits down with Bob Woosley, a national practice leader at Fraser and Dieter, to discuss the evolving landscape of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance and its impact on mid-market companies. The conversation delves into the growing pressure from public companies and government regulations on suppliers to provide decarbonization and emission information, regardless of their stance on ESG. Woosley emphasizes the importance of preparing for these requirements to avoid losing customers and hindering business growth.



00:00:00 - 00:05:59 The Evolution of ESG Compliance

- ESG started as a requirement driven by pension funds investing in private equity firms

- Private equity firms initially pushed back on ESG, but some embraced it to manage risk

- The focus on ESG compliance shifted from being seen as "woke" to a necessity for business growth

00:06:00 - 00:12:59 Supply Chain Compliance and Scope 3 Emissions

- Mid-market companies are receiving letters from customers demanding emission and decarbonization information

- California passed a law requiring companies doing business in the state to provide this information, regardless of the SEC's stance

- Scope 3 emissions, which encompass indirect emissions in a company's supply chain, are a key focus for compliance

00:13:00 - 00:18:59 The Importance of Preparing for ESG Compliance

- Mid-market companies are often unprepared to measure and report emissions, lacking internal expertise and tools

- Ignoring ESG compliance could lead to losing customers and being unable to respond to RFPs

- Companies should take steps to prepare for compliance, regardless of their political stance on the issue

00:19:00 - 00:23:59 Seeking Help for ESG Compliance

- Mid-market companies should seek help from advisory firms to assess their readiness and develop a compliance plan

- The demand for ESG compliance services is expected to grow as more companies become aware of the requirements

- Fraser and Dieter is focusing on helping mid-market suppliers comply with ESG requirements, as larger firms focus on public companies

00:24:00 - 00:26:00 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

- Companies should not ignore ESG compliance, as it is becoming a real requirement for maintaining and expanding their customer base

- Putting political views aside, preparing for ESG compliance is crucial for business growth

- The Private Equity 360 podcast will feature an upcoming episode on how private equity firms are addressing supply chain challenges with their portfolio companies

Quotes:

"Our North Star, It's helping companies grow and create value across their life cycle. And keeping in good stead with your customer is no joke." - Bob Woosley

"Do not sleep on ESG, put your political views aside. This is real. If you don't want to keep your customer, then fine. But if you want, if you want to expand revenue and make sure that you're ready to take on any customer that might be asking for this, then this is something you need to take seriously." - Bob Woosley

Connect with Bob:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-woosley-955488/

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!


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How can choosing the right leader, not just the job, propel your career to new heights?

In this episode, host Natalie Born engages in a discussion with Antonio Garrido, author and founder of "My Daily Leadership". Antonio shares his fascinating journey from architect to successful business leader, highlighting the profound impact that great leaders had on his career trajectory. He emphasizes the importance of shared core values between individuals and organizations, drawing parallels to the dynamics of successful marriages. Antonio also delves into the power of leadership journaling as a tool for self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and decision-making. Listeners will gain valuable insights on how to identify and work with exceptional leaders, foster a culture of learning and innovation, and unlock their own leadership potential through reflective practices.

Antonio Garrido is the author of My Daily Leadership: A Powerful Roadmap for Leadership Success, and Founder & President of My Daily Leadership, a leadership development organization with a mission to inspire one million of the world’s best leaders to reach their full potential. Antonio has over twenty-five years in senior leadership positions with world-class businesses. He is an expert in leadership transformation: shaping high-performance leaders out of highly-stressed and overworked leaders. Antonio blends his own vast commercial experience with proven techniques to embed a unique brand of leadership development.



(00:00:00 - 00:06:00) From Architect to Business Leader: Antonio's Transformative Journey


The influence of a great leader can change the course of one's career.


Shared core values are essential for long-lasting professional relationships.


Continuously seeking opportunities to learn and grow is crucial for success.



(00:06:01 - 00:12:00) Choosing a Leader, Not Just a Job


Evaluate a leader's personal and organizational core values before joining a company.


Seek leaders who aspire to be world-class and prioritize learning and development.


Assess a leader's approach to truth, trust, and innovation.



(00:12:01 - 00:18:00) Fostering a Culture of Learning, Development, and Innovation


Celebrate failures as opportunities for growth and learning.


Encourage creativity by providing employees with time to explore projects that excite them.


Create a safe environment where people feel comfortable taking risks and being innovative.



(00:18:01 - 00:24:00) The Power of Leadership Journaling


Successful leaders across various fields practice journaling.


Journaling builds self-awareness and emotional intelligence, which are crucial for effective leadership.


Regular self-evaluation through journaling leads to wisdom and better decision-making.



(00:24:01 - 00:27:00) Developing Hindsight, Insight, and Foresight Through Journaling


Hindsight: Reflect on past decisions and actions to identify areas for improvement.


Insight: Use past experiences to make better decisions in the present.


Foresight: Anticipate future challenges and opportunities based on lessons learned.



Quotes:

"The only advantage you have today over yesterday is what you've learned." - Antonio Garrido

"Innovation can only thrive in cultures, environments, and situations where people feel safe." - Antonio Garrido

Connect with Antonio:

Website: https://www.mydailyleadership.com/

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform someth

How can leaders foster a culture of innovation and psychological safety in their organizations?


In this episode of the Innovation Meets Leadership podcast, host Natalie Born sits down with Tim Fischer, the president of Jackson + Coker, to discuss leadership, innovation, and the importance of psychological safety in the workplace. With over 30 years of experience in the staffing industry, Tim shares his insights on how leaders can create an environment where employees feel valued, appreciated, and comfortable taking risks. He emphasizes the significance of common sense leadership, the golden rule, and the willingness to listen and be vulnerable. Tim also delves into the challenges faced by the healthcare industry and how his company is working to address the shortage of physicians and the mental health concerns among healthcare professionals.


Tim Fischer currently serves as the President of Jackson + Coker, a locum tenens company filled with individuals who share his passion for making a difference in the world. Every day, he is surrounded by colleagues who inspire him to be better, expect excellence from one another, and understand the power of teamwork, positive energy, and hard work. The company is literally saving lives on a daily basis, and Fischer's role allows him to align his personal values with the company's values, an experience he has never had before in his career and one that he thoroughly enjoys.


The Shaping of a Leader (00:00:00 - 00:05:00)
Tim's upbringing and early experiences shaped his perspective on leadership. The Air Force Academy taught him the importance of being a good follower before becoming a leader. Common sense and the golden rule are essential in leadership, but often forgotten as people gain success.

Fostering Psychological Safety (00:05:00 - 00:12:00)
Psychological safety is crucial for innovation, as people must feel comfortable failing. Leaders should be visible, approachable, and willing to listen to their employees. Vulnerability and admitting mistakes can help build trust and psychological safety within the team.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Healthcare Industry (00:12:00 - 00:21:00)
The locum tenens industry helps address the shortage of physicians in underserved areas. Healthcare professionals face burnout and mental health concerns, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Partnering with locum tenens firms can provide physicians with flexibility and the opportunity to focus on patient care.

The Importance of Purpose in Work (00:21:00 - 00:26:00)
Many workers feel unappreciated and unhappy in their workplace, highlighting the need for purpose-driven organizations. Connecting employees' work to a greater mission can increase engagement and satisfaction. Finding one's purpose is a journey, and it's okay to take time to discover it through experimentation and failure.

Becoming a Better Person in the Workplace (00:26:00 - 00:27:00)
Workplaces that focus on helping employees become better people are thriving in today's world. Bringing one's full self to work and feeling appreciated are essential for employee well-being and success.

Quotes:
"If you're not a good follower, you can't be a good leader." - Tim Fischer
"Innovation does not happen if people are not comfortable failing." - Tim Fischer
Connect with Tim:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfischer44/
LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.
Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co
These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.
Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!




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Can the complex, interconnected challenges of our era be addressed through traditional innovation methods, or is there a more powerful approach waiting to be unleashed?

In this episode, host Natalie Born engages with Dan McClure, a visionary in the field of innovation, to explore his latest book, "Do Bigger Things." McClure delves into the necessity for a new, potent form of innovation capable of tackling today's complex, wicked problems. Through a lively discussion, the episode unfolds the concept of "Innovation Choreography," offering insights into how individuals and organizations can navigate and influence the intricate web of modern challenges. This conversation is a deep dive into reimagining the potential of innovation to create meaningful, transformative change.

Dan is an innovation choreographer, a big picture innovator whose job is to run into burning buildings looking for exceptional opportunities to reinvent the way the world works. He is a recognized thought leader in the emerging practice of ecosystem innovation and the author of the Fast Company Press book "Do Bigger Things – A practical guide to powerful innovation in a changing world". Throughout his 40 year career, he has worked with global firms facing threats of obsolescence, pioneering businesses in fast changing markets, and international organizations tackling tough challenges like climate change and pandemic response. He is excited about the future and the possibilities for pursuing bold ambitious ideas.  

[00:00:17 - 00:01:22] Unveiling the Next Innovation Frontier

McClure introduces the premise of "Do Bigger Things."


Innovation must evolve to address complex challenges.


The concept of "Innovation Choreography" as a strategy.


The importance of rethinking traditional approaches.



[00:02:09 - 00:05:38] The Choreographer's Mindset in Innovation


Discussion on McClure's background and the origins of his innovative thinking.


Embracing complex problems as opportunities.


The role of a diverse skill set in driving innovation.


The significance of "playbooks" in managing complexity.



[00:06:13 - 00:09:19] Building Modular, Adaptable Organizations


How to structure organizations for flexibility and innovation.


The metaphor of innovation as building with Lego blocks.


The necessity for organizations to support innovation at all levels.


Designing organizations to be modular and adaptable.



[00:10:13 - 00:15:00] From Vision to Implementation: The Innovator's Journey


Strategies for aligning innovation with organizational vision and making it actionable.


Aligning innovation efforts with the organization's broader goals.


The importance of a holistic approach to innovation.


The role of cross-functional support and partnerships.



[00:15:55 - 00:24:40] The Role of Innovation Choreographers


Expanding on the concept and importance of innovation choreographers.


The unique skill set of an innovation choreographer.


How to identify and nurture these individuals within organizations.


The impact of innovation choreographers on industry and societal challenges.



Quotes

"We live in a world that has the problems that need us." - Dan McClure

"It's nice not to have to apologize for the talents that you've got." - Dan McClure

Connect with Dan:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccluredc

LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.

Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co

These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website

innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.



Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!


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Have you ever considered how the simplicity of your message could be the key to breakthrough communication? Discover how to cut through the noise and connect more effectively.In this insightful episode of "Innovation Meets Leadership," host Natalie Born sits down with marketing communications expert and author Ben Guttmann to explore the power of simplicity in messaging.



Gutman shares his journey from starting a marketing agency to teaching and writing, emphasizing the critical importance of clear, concise communication in our cluttered world. Through engaging stories and practical advice, this episode uncovers the secrets to designing messages that resonate, inspire action, and stand the test of time. Dive into a conversation that will transform the way you think about marketing, leadership, and the art of communication.



Ben Guttmann is a marketing and communications expert and author of Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win — and How to Design Them. He’s an experienced marketing executive and educator on a mission to get leaders to more effectively connect by simplifying their message. Ben is former co-founder and managing partner at Digital Natives Group, an award-winning agency that worked with the NFL, I Love NY, Comcast NBCUniversal, Hachette Book Group, The Nature Conservancy, and other major clients. Currently, Ben teaches digital marketing at Baruch College in New York City and consults with a range of thought leaders, venture-backed startups, and other brands.



[00:00:00 - 00:03:00] Unveiling Simplicity in CommunicationIntroduction of Ben Gutman and the essence of simplicity in messaging.The backstory of Gutman's journey from a student to a marketing guru.The inspiration behind his book, "Simply Put."



[00:03:00 - 00:08:00] The Science of Simple MessagesHow cognitive fluency impacts message reception and action.The struggle between sender complexity and receiver preference for simplicity.The role of empathy in crafting effective communications.



[00:08:00 - 00:12:00] Design Principles for Powerful MessagingThe five design principles for simplicity in messages.The common mistakes in communication and how to avoid them.The significance of focusing on benefits over features.



[00:12:00 - 00:16:00] The Art of SimplificationPractical strategies for simplifying complex ideas.The importance of asking "So what?" to find the core benefit.How to use the "So what?" method to connect deeply with your audience.



[00:16:00 - 00:20:00] The Future of Communication: AI and BeyondGutman's nuanced view on the role of AI in communication.The potential and limitations of generative AI for content creation.How simplicity remains crucial amidst the rise of AI-generated content.



Quotes:"The messages that work... are simple." - Ben Guttmann"We are all marketers in many ways." - Ben Guttmann



Connect with Ben:Website: https://www.benguttmann.com/LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.



Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.coThese are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process.



Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!


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How can organizations create a more equitable pay structure and what impact does this have on innovation and business success?



In this insightful episode, host Natalie Born engages with Sally Loftis, Managing Director at Loftus Partners. They delve into the intricate relationship between human resources strategy and business innovation, focusing on the pivotal role of pay equity in fostering a thriving, innovative workplace. Sally shares her extensive expertise in human resources, emphasizing how addressing pay justice and equity can drive positive change in organizational culture and performance.



Sally Loftis is the daughter of teachers, innovators, and visionaries who taught her from a young age to deeply listen to everyone in her circle of influence. Starting with activism in high school, Sally volunteered and worked in spaces so that all people feel seen, heard, and represented in her work. Sally is the Managing Director at Loftis Partners, a 100% woman-owned human resources consulting firm located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.

Loftis Partners specializes in strategy, people, facilitation, and pay justice. Since launching in August 2020, Sally and her firm have worked with 54 clients across 3 continents.



(00:00 - 04:59) The Journey to HR and Business Strategy 


Sally's extensive background in human resources.


The evolution of HR beyond traditional roles.


The critical role of strategic HR in business success.



(05:00 - 09:59) Unpacking Pay Equity and Justice 


Definition and importance of pay equity.


Challenges in achieving pay justice.


The impact of wage stagnation and cost of living adjustments.



(10:00 - 13:59) Overcoming Systemic Barriers to Pay Equity 


Strategies for addressing systemic issues in pay structures.


The role of leadership in fostering pay equity.


Insights into innovative practices in pay equity.



 (14:00 - 17:59) The Relationship Between Pay and Workplace Innovation


How pay impacts employee innovation and motivation.


The connection between financial security and creative thinking.


Strategies for organizations to encourage innovation through equitable pay.



(18:00 - 21:59) Actionable Steps Towards Pay Equity 


Practical steps for organizations to achieve pay equity.


The importance of transparent and fair pay practices.


Future directions and challenges in pay equity.



Quotes:

"It's hard to be innovative when you're fearful if you can pay your bills or not." - Sally Loftis

"If I take this risk with this innovative idea and it doesn't work, does that mean I'm going to have a job on the other end?" - Sally Loftis



Connect with Sally:

Website: https://www.loftispartners.com/



LEAVE A REVIEW + help someone empower their businesses through collaboration, innovation, and transformation by sharing this episode or clicking here to listen to our previous episodes.



Check Natalie's new book, SET IT ON FIRE: The Art of Innovation, available now at setitonfire.co



These are proven solutions to advance your leadership and innovation process. Check out our website innovationmeetsleadership.com, or connect with me on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.



Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. Let's go transform something!




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Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/natalie-born/message
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/natalie-born/support