Innovation Unveiled: Charting New Territories with Robert Berris

Generally Curious a podcast by Generalist World

Dive into a compelling conversation with Robert Berris, the mastermind of innovation at Brightwell, as we unravel the enigma of the Chief Innovation Officer role. This episode takes you on a journey through Robert's eclectic path from comedy to corporate innovation, shedding light on the nuanced world of fostering creativity and strategic thinking within organizations. Join us as we explore the delicate dance between maintaining company values and driving forward-thinking initiatives, all while questioning the very fabric of conventional business wisdom. Don't miss this insightful blend of humor, wisdom, and innovation insights.

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Defining Innovation (00:02:46)

Robert discusses the ambiguity of innovation and the importance of defining it for organizational success.

Role of a Chief Innovation Officer (00:07:03)

Robert explains the indicators for a company needing a Chief Innovation Officer and how innovation can benefit both growth stage and mature organizations.

Influence of Comedy on Professional Life (00:11:22)

Robert shares his background in comedy, its impact on him, and his journey through different career paths influenced by his passion for storytelling.

Transition into Innovation (00:14:45)

Robert describes his transition from design and strategy into innovation, and how it led him to explore new product development and venturing.

The journey to building an innovation community (00:16:19)

Robert discusses the evolution of the company's innovation focus and the creation of a community for entrepreneurs and innovators.

Becoming a business strategist (00:18:36)

Robert explains how he developed new skills, such as research and business strategy, to address the needs of the people they were serving.

Tactical lessons in creating organizational change (00:20:34)

Robert shares how facilitation and workshopping became crucial in building alignment, clarity, and confidence for the innovators he was working with.

Leveraging company values for behavioral change (00:26:12)

Robert discusses how company values can be used as tools to influence behavior and drive meaningful organizational change.

The art of asking great questions (00:30:54)

Robert emphasizes the importance of psychological safety and feeling comfortable to ask questions, creating a culture that encourages open dialogue.

The role of asking smarter questions (00:31:52)

Robert discusses the importance of asking smarter questions in business using the business model canvas and the concept of identifying symptoms vs. problems.

The importance of company values (00:36:02)

Robert and the hosts discuss the significance of company values and how to effectively design and define them through workshops and discussions.

Challenges in scaling companies (00:42:21)

Robert talks about the difficulties in scaling companies, including hiring for cultural fit and maintaining a cohesive culture as the organization grows.

Predictions for the future of work (00:44:03)

Robert shares his optimistic beliefs about the future of work, including the need for better thinking, human empathy, and community in the workplace.

Lightning round with Robert (00:47:32)

The hosts ask Robert quick-fire questions about generalists, career tools, and the value of generalists as leaders.

Milly's appreciation (00:48:49)

Milly expresses gratitude and appreciation for the support received.

End of the episode (00:49:02)

The hosts conclude the episode and thank the listeners for tuning in.

Teaser for the next episode (00:49:08)

A teaser for the next episode is provided, encouraging listeners to stay tuned for more fascinating stories.

Closing remarks (00:49:15)

Final words as the episode comes to an end.