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S4 E14 - Leading for Experimentation and Iteration
Leading for Experimentation and Iteration with Steve Kowalski S4 E14 https://www.madelynblair.com Summary: In this episode of Unlocked, host Madelyn Blair interviews Dr. Steven Kowalski about the significance of experimentation and iteration in driving business success. Dr. Kowalski breaks down the key differences and connections between the two concepts, using relatable examples like cooking and business models to illustrate their impact on innovation. He emphasizes the role of creativity as a potential rather than a fixed ability and shares insights into how leaders can foster environments that encourage experimentation. The conversation highlights the value of learning from both successes and failures in various contexts, from individual careers to organizational and community settings. Overview: In this episode you will: 1. Learn about the definitions and differences between experimentation and iteration, and how they apply to business innovation. 2. Discover how creativity is a potential that can be activated and leveraged for problem-solving and growth. 3. Explore real-world examples that showcase successful experimentation and iterative processes in business and community settings. 4. Gain insights into cultivating an experimental mindset within organizations and understanding the challenges that can arise from resisting these approaches. Guest introduction: Guest name is Dr. Steven Kowalski, a renowned organization development consultant, speaker, executive coach, and author of "Creative Together: Sparking Innovation in the New World of Work." With over 25 years of experience facilitating creativity among scientists, engineers, business leaders, and professionals, Dr. Kowalski has helped deliver bold, scalable, and sustainable solutions through his Creative License Consulting Services. As the author of over 100 workplace learning programs, he is dedicated to unlocking the creative potential in individuals and teams. Learn more about his work and approach at stevenkowalski.com. Timstamps 00:00 Introduction to Experimentation and Iteration 03:49 Introducing Dr. Steven Kowalski 05:32 Understanding Creativity as a Potential 07:54 Experimentation vs. Iteration in Business 10:11 Real-World Examples of Experimentation 17:06 Challenges and Mindset in Experimentation 22:40 Experimentation in Communities 29:16 The Qualities of an Effective Leader 29:41 Building Shared Purpose and Trust 31:32 The Melting Ice Cube Analogy 32:19 Collaborating Across Functional Boundaries 36:04 Challenges in Leading Experimentation 37:40 The Iterative Nature of Leadership 42:16 Designing Effective Experiments 48:17 Applying Iteration in Everyday Life 49:28 Frank Lloyd Wright's Iterative Design 53:06 Encouraging Small Changes for Big Impact 54:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
