Episodios

  • Brett Engeman, When a Communication Expert Uses AI to Decode Human Interaction - Innova.buzz 675

    Brett Engeman, When a Communication Expert Uses AI to Decode Human Interaction - Innova.buzz 675
    Jul 2 2025
    Our guest in this episode is Brett Engeman, the founder of Aspirational Leaders Co. After spending two decades navigating the challenges of fast-growing businesses, Brett now dedicates himself to helping leaders unlock strategic communication flow, operating at the exciting intersection of mindset, human interaction, and artificial intelligence. Our conversation was a fascinating deep dive into solving the frustrating communication breakdowns that stifle growth, exploring the powerful and surprising ways Brett uses AI to create more authentic and effective leaders.Key points discussed include:* Great communication starts by diagnosing your own thinking patterns to better connect with others.* Embrace AI as your co-pilot to gain deep insights and free up time for human-centered leadership.* In a world of instant answers, your greatest superpower is deep curiosity and asking brilliant questions.Listen to the podcast to find out more.Innovabiz Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Show Notes from this episode with Brett Engeman, Aspirational Leaders Co.It was an absolute pleasure to welcome Brett Engeman of Aspirational Leaders Co. to the Innovabuzz podcast. Brett is on a mission to solve a problem that almost every entrepreneur has felt: that frustrating sense of entrapment when communication breaks down in a fast-moving business. He works at the fascinating intersection of mindset, communication, and artificial intelligence, and our conversation was a brilliant exploration of how leaders can unlock flow and scale their organizations by, first and foremost, learning to communicate better.What I loved about our chat was how Brett brought it all back to a fundamental truth. We’ve all been in those work environments where the communication is good, where everyone feels like a genuine contributor to a shared mission. As Brett said, when it’s good, "magic happens." People love coming to work. But we’ve also seen the flip side, when growth and new teams lead to silos and misunderstandings, and that magic quickly fades.Brett has seen the good and the bad over his 20 years in scaling businesses, and he’s learned that even leaders with the best intentions can inadvertently create these communication gaps. It’s not about blame; it’s about awareness. His insights offer a powerful blueprint for rediscovering that collaborative magic, no matter the size of your team.It All Starts with You: A Diagnosis of Your Own Thinking PatternsSo, where does a leader begin? According to Brett, the first step is an inward one. He starts his work with leaders by conducting a "communication diagnosis" to help them understand how they themselves think and process information. This was a lightbulb moment for me. We all have our own default settings; a leader might be a "visual thinker" who sees the big picture, the grand vision.The problem arises when they're communicating that vision to a team member who is, as Brett explained, more "kinesthetic" and detail-oriented. The leader is talking about the "why," while the team member is desperate to understand the "how." Without this awareness, a disconnect is almost guaranteed. It’s a simple yet profound realization that miscommunication often starts not with what is said, but with a mismatch in how it's processed.From Vision to Action: How to Finally Get Everyone on the Same PageOnce you have that self-awareness, you can start bridging the gap. Brett shared some wonderfully practical advice, emphasizing that leaders must consciously cater their message to all thinking types. And his golden rule for getting a message to stick is one I won't soon forget: "If you think you're communicating a lot... do it five times more." In a vacuum of information, people will naturally create their own stories, so consistent and clear repetition is your greatest ally.This extends to the very language we use in our values and vision statements. Brett gave a brilliant example of a vague vision to be the "biggest and best." What does that actually mean? Is it profit? Market share? Customer satisfaction? He urges leaders to break these terms down into specific, unified meanings. When you do that, the vision transforms from a nice phrase on a wall into a tangible goal that everyone can see, understand, and work toward together.My Unexpected Co-pilot: Using AI to See Our Communication ClearlyThis is where our conversation took a fascinating turn into the world of AI. Brett shared how, almost by accident, he discovered AI could be a powerful mirror for communication. By feeding transcripts of his research calls into an AI model loaded with his own custom language filters, he could extract incredible insights about a person's communication style—a process that would have manually taken him nearly 20 hours.This isn't just about spotting filler words, though Brett humbly admitted it helped him notice his own ...
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    53 m
  • Marnie Stockman, Leading the Character Revolution in the Age of AI - Innovabuzz 674

    Marnie Stockman, Leading the Character Revolution in the Age of AI - Innovabuzz 674
    Jun 25 2025
    Our guest in this episode is Marnie Stockman, co-creator of the Lead It like Lasso philosophy. Following her passion for helping people become their best selves, Marnie has embarked on a new adventure to empower job seekers in the age of AI. Her mission, sparked by conversations with her own children, is to help people find truly meaningful work through authentic self-discovery.Marnie shares how we can all become the "CEO of You, Incorporated," using AI as a tool for deep introspection, not just for sterile automation. Key points discussed include:* Character is your advantage: In an automated world, your unique human character is your ultimate competitive edge.* Be the CEO of You: Run your life and career like a business to intentionally guide your own growth.* Use AI for authenticity: Leverage AI to understand your real story and NOT to game the system.Listen to the podcast to find out more.Innovabiz Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Show Notes from this episode with Marnie Stockman, Lead It Like LassoIt was an absolute delight to welcome Marnie Stockman of Lead It like Lasso back to the Innovabuzz podcast. Long-time listeners might remember Marnie from episode 653, where she and her business partner Nick taught us how to lead with heart, inspired by the one and only Ted Lasso. So much of that conversation was about core values and curiosity, and now she’s returned with a fascinating new adventure that feels like the perfect next chapter: empowering job seekers in the age of AI.This new direction isn’t a pivot away from her Lasso-inspired philosophy; it’s a powerful evolution of it. Marnie is diving headfirst into the world of artificial intelligence, not as a cold, robotic replacement for human ingenuity, but as a tool to help us become, as she so eloquently puts it, "the best version of ourselves." It’s a mission to bring more character, not less, into our professional lives, especially when technology is changing everything.The Spark of Inspiration: The Character Revolution in a Digital WorldMarnie’s new focus was sparked by a simple but profound observation she calls the "character revolution." In a world increasingly filled with automation and digital transformation, the single greatest way to stand out is by being authentically, unapologetically human. It’s our character, our values, and our unique stories that will become our most valuable assets. The ones who thrive will be the ones who show up as real people.This idea wasn't just a theory; it was validated in the most personal way possible. Marnie shared a wonderful story about a single week where her 23-year-old daughter, her 25-year-old son, and her daughter’s 23-year-old boyfriend all decided they needed more impactful work. From a mechanic wanting to help people more directly to a marketer discovering a passion for teaching, their journeys proved that understanding one's core drivers is the first step toward a fulfilling career.Welcome to You, Incorporated: Becoming the CEO of Your Own LifeThis is where Marnie’s new venture gets truly brilliant. She and Nick are developing an app and writing a new business fable, The Business of You, based on a powerful central metaphor: you are the CEO of "You, Incorporated." I just love this concept. It reframes personal development from a passive activity into an act of empowered, strategic leadership over your own life and career.When you think of yourself as a CEO, you realize you're in charge of all your own departments: your finances, your marketing (how you present yourself to the world), and your HR (your personal growth and well-being). The app they're building is designed to be your trusted advisor in this enterprise, using AI to help you have the critical conversations needed to run your personal corporation with intention and clarity.AI as Your Personal Mirror: Uncovering Your Authentic StoryThis is where the magic really happens. We chatted about how AI’s greatest strength isn't just generating content, but acting as a conversational partner to help you uncover your own ideas. Marnie’s work is a perfect example of this. Her app uses AI to help you dig deep into your core values and the stories that define you, much like a patient coach. It helps you connect the dots of your own life.Marnie shared the powerful story of an introverted young man she mentored who was told he came across as "chaotic" in interviews. By working through his core values and the stories that demonstrated them, from soccer as a kid to his work as a lifeguard, he was able to build a coherent narrative. The very next day, he walked into an interview, confidently told his story, and landed the job. He didn’t change who he was; he just finally understood how to articulate it.The Human Checkpoint: Navigating AI with Wisdom and AuthenticityOf course, with any powerful new tool, there are risks. Marnie ...
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    45 m
  • Dr Islam Gouda, Keeping Your Marketing Human, Unique, and Valuable in the AI World - Innovabuzz Episode 673

    Dr Islam Gouda, Keeping Your Marketing Human, Unique, and Valuable in the AI World - Innovabuzz Episode 673
    Jun 18 2025
    Our guest in this episode is the returning Dr. Islam Gouda, a global brand ambassador and marketing mentor from Egypt. Islam previously appeared on Episode 660, where we had a fantastic chat about building authentic relationships through ethical marketing, aligning brand values with customer ethos, and the critical role of human connection.This time, Islam is back to explore how we can uphold those same principles in the age of AI. He explains how we can embrace AI's power without sacrificing the authenticity and intuition that truly connect with customers. Islam offers a brilliant framework for treating AI as an assistant, not a replacement, ensuring our marketing remains valuable and real.Key points discussed include:* AI is your assistant, not your expert; use it to enhance your unique skills, not replace them.* Human creativity is a rare "nature-bred pearl," far more valuable than AI's generic "artificial pearl" output.* Use AI for research and brainstorming, but always maintain human oversight and a healthy dose of distrust.Listen to the podcast to find out more.Innovabiz Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Show Notes from this episode with Dr Islam GoudaIt was a genuine pleasure to welcome Dr. Islam Gouda back to the Innovabuzz podcast. So much of our world has shifted since his last appearance, especially with the explosion of Artificial Intelligence into our daily marketing lives. As a marketing mentor and AI enthusiast himself, Islam offered a powerful and refreshingly grounded perspective on how we, as business owners and marketers, can navigate this new frontier without losing the one thing that truly sets us apart: our human connection.The conversation kicked off with a critical warning. Islam pointed out that AI, for all its power, carries a significant risk: it can make us all look and sound the same. In its quest for perfection, AI can strip away the unique personality and the authentic voice that defines a brand. If we are not careful, we risk dissolving into a sea of "impeccable" but ultimately generic content, losing the very essence of what makes customers connect with us on a human level.Championing the "Marketing Gut"So, how do we fight this trend towards standardization? Islam argues it all comes down to valuing our own foundational expertise, what he wonderfully calls the "marketing gut". He shared a brilliant analogy, comparing AI's arrival in marketing to the introduction of Excel for accountants. Back then, accountants were afraid of becoming obsolete, but Excel didn't replace them; it empowered them. It became a tool that allowed them to be better at their craft.That is precisely how we should view AI. It is not a replacement for our knowledge, our understanding of our customers, or our strategic intuition. If you don't have that solid marketing foundation, you are simply feeding a machine and hoping for the best. True magic happens when human expertise guides the tool, not the other way around.The Parable of the Two PearlsTo drive this point home, Islam shared a powerful metaphor that has really stuck with me. He compared AI-generated content to an "artificial pearl". It might look perfect and be easy to produce in mass quantities, but its value is inherently limited. Human-generated output, on the other hand, is like a "nature-bred pearl". It is rare, unique, and sometimes imperfect, but its intrinsic value is exponentially higher.This parable is a profound reminder for all of us in the marketing space. Are we striving to produce cheap, artificial pearls that are easily replicated, or are we cultivating the unique, valuable, nature-bred pearls of human creativity and strategy? The answer to that question will define the future of our brands.Wielding the Tool Wisely: AI as Your Research AssistantThis does not mean we should shun AI altogether. In fact, when used correctly, it is an incredibly powerful assistant. Islam and I discussed how AI can be a game-changer for the research phase of any project. It can synthesize competitor data, analyze customer sentiment, and explore messaging angles in minutes, a process that used to take days.By treating AI as a brainstorming partner or a research engine, we can supercharge our strategic work. It can give us five different ways to approach a problem or pull together a comprehensive report, freeing up our time and mental energy to focus on the high-level thinking that only a human can do.Keeping the Human in ControlThe key, however, is to always keep the human in control and to maintain a healthy level of distrust. I shared my own recent experience of receiving a cold, dismissive, and clearly AI-written response from a company I had been loyal to for years. It was a perfect example of what happens when the human oversight is removed.Islam stressed that you always need a human eye to supervise the machine, someone who knows the company, ...
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    51 m
  • Dawid Naude, Navigating AI: Bias, Human Connection, Conversation and Real-World Impact - Innova.buzz Episode 672

    Dawid Naude, Navigating AI: Bias, Human Connection, Conversation and Real-World Impact - Innova.buzz Episode 672
    Jun 11 2025
    Our guest in this episode is Dawid Naude, the visionary founder and CEO of Pathfinder, an AI accelerator dedicated to helping businesses boost employee productivity, drive breakthrough innovation, and cultivate a sustainable AI culture. Dawid's passion lies in leveraging AI to free us from mundane tasks and enhance our uniquely human capabilities.In our chat, Dawid shared how AI can truly liberate us from daily drudgery, making way for more meaningful work and deeper human connection. He also brilliantly explained that AI's real power isn't in simple prompts but in having a genuine conversation with it.Key points discussed include:* AI as a liberator: Dawid emphasizes how AI can free us from low-level tasks, allowing for greater focus on skilled work.* Conversational AI: The true value of AI lies in dynamic dialogue, not just one-off questions and answers.* Human connection amplified: AI enables us to be more human by removing tedious tasks and fostering deeper understanding.Listen to the podcast to find out more.Innovabiz Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Show Notes from this episode with Dawid Naude, PathfindrAI has moved beyond science fiction and into our everyday lives, and for many, that shift can bring a mix of excitement and apprehension. Are robots coming for our jobs? Is technology making us less human? These are the kinds of questions that often swirl around the conversation. But what if we told you that AI isn't here to replace us, but to liberate us? What if it's the key to unlocking a future where we're more productive, more creative, and yes, even more connected?This was the incredibly inspiring message from our recent Innova.buzz guest, Dawid Naude, the founder and CEO of Pathfinder. Dawid isn't just building an AI accelerator; he's on a mission to reshape how businesses and individuals embrace this powerful technology, focusing intently on the human side of AI adoption and creating a sustainable AI culture. His vision is refreshingly optimistic: AI's true power lies in its ability to strip away the "drudgery" of our daily tasks, freeing us up to do the really important, human work.Beyond the Classroom: Revolutionizing Learning and Critical ThinkingThink about it: how much of your day is spent on low-level activities, tasks you mastered years ago, or even back in university? Dawid sees this as a profound opportunity. AI can shoulder that mundane burden, allowing us to flex our highly developed skills. But his excitement truly ignites when he talks about education. Imagine every student having a 24/7 mentor, a personalized teacher available at their own pace, in their own language. For those with learning difficulties or language barriers, this isn't just convenient; it's a game-changer, leveling the playing field and opening up a world of possibilities.Now, I know what some of you might be thinking: won't all this AI make us lazy thinkers? Won't it erode our critical thinking skills? It's a valid concern, one I've wrestled with myself. But Dawid offers a compelling counter-narrative. Perhaps for some, it will make it easier to copy and paste. But what about those in the middle, those who struggle to follow complex work? Could AI actually elevate their understanding, pushing them beyond simple rote learning? And for those who are already critical thinkers, AI becomes an "absolute weapon," allowing them to test concepts, explore new topics, and identify blind spots with unprecedented speed and depth. It's like having an instant sounding board, helping you see all the holes in an argument you might have missed.The Art of Conversation: Prompting Beyond the Basic Q&AOne of Dawid's most profound insights is that the true magic of AI isn't in a single, perfectly crafted prompt. Forget prompt engineering as a rigid, one-shot deal for most of us. Instead, Dawid champions the idea of AI as a conversation partner. It's not about asking a question and getting the answer; it's about engaging in a dialogue, a back-and-forth riffing session where you can tweak, question, and refine the AI's responses. This conversational approach unlocks a much deeper level of value.So, how do we master this art? It's simpler than you think. Dawid suggests treating AI like a friend you want to challenge. Instead of asking, "Is this a good idea?" try, "Can you find 10 things wrong with this?" or "Tell me all the reasons for and against." This subtle shift in your interaction can transform the AI from a validation machine into a genuine sparring partner, pushing your thinking and helping you explore ideas from all angles. It's about being aware of the AI's inherent tendency to validate and actively instructing it to push back, to play devil's advocate.Navigating the Ethical Maze: Bias and the Human ElementThe question of bias in AI is a significant one, and Dawid delves into this with admirable honesty. He explains that AI ...
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    49 m
  • Anna Addoms, Navigating AI: A Human-Centered and Value-Driven Blueprint - Innova.Buzz 671

    Anna Addoms, Navigating AI: A Human-Centered and Value-Driven Blueprint - Innova.Buzz 671
    Jun 4 2025
    Anna Addoms, Wicked MarvelousOur guest in this episode is Anna Addoms, the insightful founder of Wicked Marvelous. Anna champions making technology, especially AI, accessible and genuinely useful for small business owners, always with a focus on reducing overwhelm and fostering authentic connections. In our chat, Anna shares her practical wisdom on how entrepreneurs can harness AI as a powerful tool without losing the essential human touch that truly matters in building lasting relationships and a thriving business.Key points discussed include:* AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement: Use AI strategically for back-office tasks, but always keep humans at the forefront of client interactions.* Guard Human Connection Fiercely: Implement AI in customer service with extreme care, ensuring transparency and easy access to human support.* Navigate AI Ethically and Practically: Stay informed about AI's capabilities and risks, using it to add value while protecting your brand and IP.Listen to the podcast to find out more.Innovabiz Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Show Notes from this episode with Anna Addoms, Wicked MarvelousThe AI Revolution: Tool, Not TyrantIt feels like just yesterday we were marveling at the dawn of AI, this "cool, shiny object" everyone was buzzing about. Fast forward to today, and we're deep in the trenches, moving beyond the mere novelty and into the serious business of practical application. The initial excitement was palpable, but now, as Anna Addoms wisely pointed out in our recent chat, we're navigating the "nitty gritty" – figuring out what AI is actually doing, whether it's truly adding value, and how to use it safely and effectively without getting lost down a "rabbit hole."Anna Addoms, with her characteristic clarity, cuts right to the chase: AI is fundamentally a tool, a multi-tool even. Think of it like a powerful chainsaw in your shed. In the right hands, with the right understanding, it can make incredibly light work of massive tasks. But if you're not careful, or if you don't really know how to wield it, you're just inviting a mess or unnecessary complexity. Our biggest goal, as entrepreneurs, should be to use AI to enhance our lives and businesses, to make things easier, and crucially, to still allow us to do what we do best: cultivate genuine human connections.Where AI Shines (and Where It Doesn't)So, where does this powerful multi-tool truly shine? Anna suggests focusing its considerable might on back-office tasks – those internal operations that often consume valuable time and energy. Picture those complex spreadsheet formulas that make your head spin; AI can whip those up in a flash. Or consider the initial drafts of long-form content, giving you a solid starting point without the blank page paralysis. The key here is using AI to shoulder a significant portion of the "heavy lifting," freeing you up for more strategic and human-centric work.But let's not get carried away. As Anna firmly reminds us, not every "low-level task can be farmed out" to AI. There are times when trying to force AI into a situation actually creates more complication than it solves. If a simple spreadsheet can organize your contact information, why complicate it by feeding it into an AI that might struggle with context? The wisdom lies in recognizing when AI is a genuine accelerator and when it's just an unnecessary detour.The Human Touch: Why Relationships Still RuleHere’s where Anna's human-centered philosophy truly comes to the fore: AI should never, ever, replace genuine human connection. We've all been there – stuck in a frustrating recursive loop with a chatbot, feeling like we’re talking to a brick wall. That "bad brain experience" doesn't just annoy customers; it actively "burns relationships." Anna is adamant: if you're deploying AI for customer service, there must be an immediate, clear escalation process to a real human. Without that "I wanna talk to a real human right now" button, you're essentially signing a death warrant for customer loyalty.It's not just about functionality; it's about authenticity. Anna points out the "uncanny valley" experience when AI voice technology gets too close to human, yet remains subtly "off." This creates a deep cognitive dissonance, a feeling of "something is wrong." Her advice is crystal clear: be transparency. If it's a bot, call it a bot. Don't give it a human name or picture. This ethical stance ensures trust, preventing your customers from feeling misled or, worse, "pissed off" because they couldn't escape an automated interaction.Building Your AI-Powered Personal Brand (Ethically!)Now, on a brighter note, AI can be an absolute boon for crafting and refining your personal brand's messaging. Anna herself has trained her AI to sound "exactly like me" for various content outputs – emails, sales pages, blog posts. This means she can generate initial ...
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    49 m
  • Todd Starr, The Power of Mindset and Empathy in AI-Driven Marketing - Innova.buzz 670

    Todd Starr, The Power of Mindset and Empathy in AI-Driven Marketing - Innova.buzz 670
    May 28 2025
    Our guest in this episode is Todd Starr, a marketing innovator and psychology enthusiast who helps businesses differentiate themselves through powerful strategy and human connection. In his insightful chat with host Jürgen Strauss, Todd shares his journey from learning with rock stars to guiding over 3,000 creative client projects, all while exploring the fast-evolving role of AI in business. Together, Todd and Jürgen unpack how mindset, empathy, and intentional use of technology shape modern marketing and meaningful progress.Key points discussed include:* Mindset Shapes Marketing Success: Todd highlights how our beliefs and inner narratives directly impact business growth and marketing confidence.* True Empathy Creates Connection: He shares how genuine empathy - really feeling others' pain - can help unlock client challenges and foster trust.* Thoughtful Integration of AI: Todd encourages using AI as a thought partner, not a replacement, stressing the need for human-centered innovation and creativity.This episode is a bubbly and humble reminder that technology shines brightest when it enhances - not replaces - our human spark and connection!Listen to the podcast to find out more.Innovabiz Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Show Notes from this episode with Todd StarrMarketing, Mindset, and Human Connection in the Age of AIThis is a fascinating conversation that sits at the intersection of marketing brilliance, deep psychology, and the ever-present rise of AI! Todd’s approach is as much about human behaviour as it is about business strategy. Our discussion was a intriguing blend of practical marketing, the psychology of belief, and how we can leverage technology without losing our humanity. Let’s dig into the big ideas Todd brought to the table!From the outset, Todd framed his mission beautifully: helping businesses market “better, faster, and easier on purpose.” But what really stood out was his view of marketing as an exercise in communication at scale - a process deeply tied to human beliefs, mindset, and connection. As we explored everything from lead generation to leveraging AI, it became clear that for Todd, impact starts in the brain before it ever meets a business plan.The Power of Mindset: How Our Beliefs Shape Our MarketingA recurring gem from Todd was that “whatever you say, your brain believes you.” This isn’t just motivational fluff - it’s the heart of why so many business owners get stuck. Whether you think you can improve your marketing or not, that belief will quickly become your reality. Todd’s take: mindset isn’t peripheral. It sits at the core of successful strategy, differentiation, and growth.It’s easy to fall into patterns of self-limiting beliefs, especially in marketing where the feedback isn’t always immediate. Todd highlighted how entrepreneurs often internalize stories from childhood (think: “Don’t seek attention” or “Don’t talk to strangers”) that then sabotage their efforts to put themselves out there. The best marketing strategies won’t get off the ground if, deep down, we don’t believe we deserve attention or success.Neuro-diversity and Resilient Thinking: Lessons from Dyslexic InnovatorsTodd’s personal transparency about being dyslexic and possibly ADHD or autistic hit home. Far from seeing these as weaknesses, he credits his neuro-diversity for making him a big-picture thinker and ace problem-solver. There’s a wonderful lesson here about reframing what we often consider “challenges” into superpowers.He drew inspiration from famous innovators like Alexander Graham Bell, Steve Jobs, and even Da Vinci - many of whom were neuro-diverse. Todd sees this connection as a catalyst for original thinking and resilience. As he says, “Dyslexic thinkers shape the world, and everyone else is just living in it.” That kind of outside-the-mold thinking isn’t just helpful - it’s essential for innovating in business and beyond.Unlearning Limiting Beliefs: Transactional Analysis and the Pebble in the ShoeWe dove into Todd’s use of transactional analysis - a psychological framework that examines the “parent,” “adult,” and “child” states we carry from childhood into adulthood. These old patterns can trip us up, especially in areas like sales and networking. Todd gave the example of people carrying forward the childhood lesson, “Don’t talk to strangers,” only to struggle with cold calls and networking later.His “pebble in the shoe” metaphor resonated deeply. When business owners ignore small problems or limiting beliefs, they eventually grow into full-blown roadblocks. Sometimes, all it takes is the courage and self-awareness to stop, remove the pebble, and move forward unburdened. Todd’s job is to bring empathy to this process, helping clients see that a little pause and strategic action now can save a lot of pain ...
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    1 h y 1 m
  • Dr Jeff Gross, Living Better Longer: Activating Natural Healing for Longevity - Innova.Buzz 669

    Dr Jeff Gross, Living Better Longer: Activating Natural Healing for Longevity - Innova.Buzz 669
    May 22 2025
    Our guest in this episode, is Dr. Jeff Gross, a pioneering neurological surgeon turned regenerative medicine specialist, is passionate about helping people live healthier, more vibrant lives. He shares his journey from traditional medicine to a holistic approach, emphasizing the importance of health span over lifespan. Key points discussed include:* Prioritize health span: Focus on quality of life, not just quantity of years.* Combat inflammation: Adopt lifestyle habits to reduce cellular stress.* Activate natural healing: Leverage sleep, exercise, and nutrition for regeneration.Listen to the podcast for the full conversation.Unlocking Longevity: Dr. Jeff Gross on Extending Health SpanWhen you listen to Dr. Jeff Gross in conversation with Jürgen Strauss, you quickly realize this isn’t just another chat about living longer. It’s a masterclass in living better for longer—a distinction that’s both subtle and profound. Dr. Gross, a pioneering neurological surgeon turned regenerative medicine specialist, brings a refreshing blend of scientific rigor and practical wisdom to the table.At its heart, this conversation is about empowering listeners to activate their body’s natural healing and longevity mechanisms. Dr. Gross and Jürgen Strauss explore not just how to add years to life, but how to fill those years with health, energy, and meaning.Key Takeaways* The distinction between lifespan and health span is crucial; the goal is not just to live longer, but to live healthier for longer. [0:01:30]* Chronic inflammation is the common pathway for most age-related decline; suppressing it is central to healthy longevity. [0:05:30]* Regenerative medicine leverages both ancient wisdom and modern science, focusing on natural healing, stem cells, and anti-inflammatory strategies. [0:07:00]* Sleep, exercise, and hormesis (beneficial stress) are foundational for activating the body’s own regenerative capacity. [0:16:00]* Nutrition, especially minimizing processed foods and sugars while prioritizing protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients, is medicine for longevity. [0:36:00]* Anyone, regardless of current health, can benefit from adopting small, consistent longevity habits. [0:29:30]The Journey from Neurosurgery to Regenerative MedicineDr. Gross’s professional journey is as inspiring as it is instructive. He began in the high-stakes world of neurosurgery, but it was his patients’ questions and needs that nudged him toward regenerative medicine. He realized that fixing what’s broken isn’t enough; true healing means addressing the root causes. This shift wasn’t about abandoning science, but about expanding it—embracing both cutting-edge research and time-tested wisdom from around the world. [0:01:30]The Science of Aging: Inflammation, Stem Cells, and the Body’s Natural WisdomDr. Gross has a gift for making the complex simple. He explains that chronic inflammation is the silent saboteur of healthy aging, quietly eroding our vitality. Stem cells, meanwhile, are the body’s natural repair crew—ready to leap into action if we give them the right environment. He draws on both modern biochemistry and ancient traditions, showing that the best solutions often blend old and new. [0:05:30] [0:07:00]Practical Strategies for Extending Health SpanWhat’s truly empowering is how actionable Dr. Gross’s advice is. Sleep, exercise, and hormesis (those little, beneficial stresses like cold showers or fasting) are all within reach. He doesn’t preach perfection; instead, he encourages small, sustainable changes that add up over time. It’s about building habits, not chasing hacks. The message: start where you are, and keep moving forward. [0:16:00] [0:29:30]Nutrition as Medicine: What to Eat, What to Avoid, and Why It MattersFood, in Dr. Gross’s world, is both fuel and medicine. He urges us to minimize processed foods and sugars, and to embrace proteins, healthy fats, and micronutrients. It’s not about deprivation, but about making choices that support our body’s natural resilience. He reminds us that every meal is an opportunity to invest in our future health. [0:36:00]Mental Wellbeing and the Mind-Body ConnectionDr. Gross doesn’t neglect the mind. He highlights the importance of sleep, breathwork, and stress management—not as afterthoughts, but as pillars of health. Simple practices, like deep breathing or mindful movement, can have outsized effects on our well-being. He’s candid about his own journey, admitting he’s not a meditation guru, but he’s always learning and experimenting. [0:33:00]The Future of Regenerative Medicine: Hope, Innovation, and EmpowermentLooking ahead, Dr. Gross is optimistic. He sees regenerative medicine moving toward prevention, root-cause solutions, and less reliance on surgery or pharmaceuticals. The future, he believes, is about empowering individuals to take charge of their health, with science and tradition working hand in hand. It’s a vision that’s ...
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    53 m
  • Jon Bassford, Curiosity Unleashed: Leading with Questions, Not Answers - Innova.Buzz 668

    Jon Bassford, Curiosity Unleashed: Leading with Questions, Not Answers - Innova.Buzz 668
    May 14 2025
    Our guest in this episode is Jon Bassford, a curiosity-driven leader, consultant, and author who helps organizations unlock innovation by asking better questions. Jon’s journey is a story of challenging the status quo, rediscovering the power of curiosity, and empowering others to do the same. In his conversation with Jürgen, Jon shares practical tools, candid stories, and a contagious enthusiasm for making curiosity a daily habit.Key points discussed include:* Curiosity is a superpower that drives innovation, growth, and operational excellence in both individuals and organizations.* Building a culture of psychological safety and open questioning empowers teams to experiment, learn, and contribute their best ideas.* Practical tools—like improv exercises and breaking daily routines—can help anyone reignite their curiosity and creative thinking.Listen to the podcast to find out more.Show Notes from this episode with Jon Bassford, Lateral SolutionsUnleashing Your Inner Innovator: How Curiosity Can Transform Your LeadershipIn a recent episode of the InnovaBuzz podcast, host Jürgen engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with Jon Bassford, the founder and CEO of Lateral Solutions, and the author of "The Curious Leader." Jon specializes in helping organizations innovate, change, and grow by adopting a curiosity-driven leadership. The discussion revealed how cultivating curiosity can unlock transformative potential in both personal and professional spheres.The Power of Curiosity: Jon's JourneyJon's journey is a testament to the power of innate curiosity. He realized that his life has always been driven by a desire to challenge the status quo and improve existing systems. This internal drive has shaped his career, leading him to assist organizations in achieving operational excellence and driving intended results efficiently and effectively. It's not merely about making minor adjustments; it's about fundamentally questioning the rationale behind established practices.Reclaiming Your Inner Child: Rediscovering CuriosityJürgen and Jon explored how the innate curiosity of childhood often diminishes as individuals mature. Jon noted that by the age of 35, a significant portion of our habits and thoughts are programmed. However, he emphasized that it's never too late to reignite that inner child. He suggests implementing mechanisms within our lives and teams to consistently question the validity of our actions and explore potential improvements. It involves consciously challenging ingrained habits and embracing a mindset of continuous inquiry.The Art of Asking Questions: Solving Problems with CuriosityJon shared a key insight: effective problem-solving hinges not on possessing all the answers, but on posing the right questions. He referenced an exercise from his "Curious Leader" workshop, where teams tackle challenges solely through inquiry. The transformative moment occurs when a well-formulated question sparks a breakthrough. This underscores the notion that expertise isn't a prerequisite for progress; rather, it's the willingness to explore through questioning.Building a Curious Culture: Fostering Innovation in Your OrganizationThe conversation shifted to creating environments where questions are encouraged and experimentation is embraced. Jon stressed the importance of psychological safety, which begins with leaders understanding their team members on a personal level. Instead of dictating opinions, leaders should prioritize valuing the perspectives of their team. This fosters a culture of open communication and collaborative innovation.The Three Shifts: Mindset, Operations, and CultureJon outlined three essential shifts for leaders aiming to cultivate curiosity: mindset, operational excellence, and culture. The initial step involves transitioning from a fixed mindset to a growth-oriented one, encouraging individuals to envision possibilities beyond current limitations. Next, it entails regularly questioning existing processes and seeking opportunities for improvement. Ultimately, it's about fostering an environment where every member is empowered to drive innovation and positive change.Curiosity as Kryptonite: When Curiosity Goes WrongEven the most potent strengths have their limitations. Jon recounted an instance where his eagerness to instigate change met with resistance. This serves as a reminder that curiosity, like any virtue, requires judicious management. Self-awareness is paramount. Individuals must reflect on their actions and assess their contribution to the overall dynamic. Sometimes, the most insightful question is, "How am I impeding progress?"Practical Tools for Cultivating CuriosityJon offered practical tools for nurturing curiosity in everyday life. These included improv exercises, which encourage building upon ideas without dismissing them, and the 80/20 rule, where companies like Google and 3M allow employees to dedicate a portion of their time to passion projects. Even simple ...
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