Seth Godin discusses on the Ideation Podcast how entrepreneurs and idea makers can better discover their purpose and life mission. Topics discussed in this episode include: Creating a Mission for Your Life - Seth shares his personal journey that led him to discover his purpose. “[The]ability to matter is open to just about everyone. And for me mattering means changing something.” Successfully fulfilling your mission doesn't come without failures. Habits for Success - Seth explains the pitfalls of looking for a formula for success. The secret to success is there are no shortcuts. “The seeking of the habits is a way of hiding. What you're hiding from is responsibility. The responsibility to be in a situation where you are afraid. That’s what it means to make change - is doing something that might not work.” The real formula to success is overcoming the fear of failure in order to find out what works and what doesn't. Successful people aren't successful because they did something others couldn't; They did what others didn’t. He offers as an example American poet Sarah Kay who began performing her poetry at fourteen. “Sarah cared enough to do something that might not work. And when it didn't work, to do something else again. So that's the only habit. The habit is signing up for a practice where you are willing, in a respectful way and with dignity to other people, to expose them to ideas that might not work.” Practical Applications for Cultivating an Idea Mindset - Seth lists important steps to putting ideas into action, which he covers in depth within his 4 week intensive online workshop, Alt MBA How to have a perspective that is different from everyone else. How to make the right decisions with practice. How to persuade other people to support your ideas. Staying True to Your Mission – Amidst Opportunity - Seth offers tips for entrepreneurs and idea makers to stay on the right path. He explains: Why principles are a key factor in continued success. “...we do our best If we know other people are watching us...And if we can just apply that principle from the first day to the last it so much easier to be consistent in what you stand for.” The value of learning to be different, creating your reputation, remaining consistent with your principles, and setting boundaries of what you will and will not do. Inspiration for Pursuing a Life that Matters - Seth mentions the most important lessons that he has learned from the individuals who have inspired him the most. His list of influencers include: Susan Piver a writer, teacher and founder of the international mindfulness community, The Open Heart Project. Lewis Hyde a professor and author of The Gift. Catherine Hoke “Cat” the Founder of the Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP), a nonprofit organization that serves men throughout the Texas prison system. John Wood - the founder of Room to Read, a global non-profit organization focused on literacy and gender equality in education. Room to Read raised a quarter of a billion dollars to build schools around the world. Looking Ahead to the Future of Social Innovation - Seth offers his perspective on the current state of society and how it will shape the future. He weighs in on the issue of global warming and the implications it will have for us in the near future. He also discusses how innovation in self -driving automobiles will soon change our transportation system and how artificial intelligence will usher in new possibilities, and maybe even bad outcomes in the very near future. Seth references The Windup Girl by Paolo Bacigalupi, a science fiction novel he recently read, saying “it blew me away.” Tips to Encourage the Hustling Idea Maker - Seth provides final thoughts for those working hard to put their ideas to action, imploring idea makers to make connections now. Successfully sharing your ideas and innovations is understanding that there is much greater value in reaching a small audience than casting a wide net. He says that the key is earning the trust of a small group, and if they believe in your ideas, they will share them with their audiences. If they don’t, keep working to create something better. He says that success is achieved when you can “connect people with something that they will connect other people with.”
Join host Charles Lee on this engaging episode of the Ideation Podcast, where he interviews Jeff Eyet, a visionary leader in AI integration and implementation. Together, they unravel common myths about AI, explore its real-world applications, and share actionable advice for leveraging AI in business and career development. This episode covers essential topics including: Why most people have spent less than 10 hours engaging with AI tools How AI can enhance jobs instead of replacing them The critical importance of understanding AI terminology for effective communication The often-overlooked environmental impacts of AI, including water and energy consumption Treating generative AI as a partner rather than a replacement Why creativity, curiosity, and empathy are must-have skills in the age of AI Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a business leader looking to bolster AI, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Tune in now to uncover the realities of AI and prepare for the opportunities it brings.
12/6/24 • 31:31
In this episode of the Ideation Podcast, Paull Young, Nonprofit Partnerships Lead at Facebook, shares his stories from his journey and lessons learned from leading digital and social impact efforts for notable brands like charity: water, Instagram, and now, Facebook. Paull shares his thoughts on numerous topics including inspiring and activating unforgettable experiences and innovative products for donors, reimagining charity, doing the hard work of simple, product development insights, and effective partnership building. Paull Young was born and educated in Australia. In his current role at Facebook, Paull helps nonprofits around the world raise money and support their missions on Facebook and Instagram.Prior to starting this role in 2018 Paull spent 4 years working on strategic partnerships for Instagram. While at Instagram Paull led the media partnerships strategy for the launches of Stories, Live, Boomerang, IGTV and ranked feed. Paull is a veteran of the nonprofit sector, leading digital at leading NYC based nonprofit charity: water for 5 years prior to joining Instagram. In this time Paull was responsible as a member of charity: water's first executive team for raising over $37 million online to fund clean and safe drinking water projects around the world.
7/2/20 • 47:19
In this bonus episode of the Ideation Podcast, Bryan Stevenson, Founder/Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) and inspiration for the recent movie Just Mercy, shares his stories and thoughts on criminal justice reform, courage, mercy, and being influenced by civil rights heroes like Rosa Parks. This interview was originally recorded backstage at Catalyst Conference in Atlanta a few years ago. We think Mr. Stevenson’s thoughts are not only timeless but also timely for the conversations we’re having today in our society around racial equity. Under Mr. Stevenson's leadership, EJI has won major legal challenges eliminating excessive and unfair sentencing, exonerating innocent death row prisoners, confronting abuse of the incarcerated and the mentally ill, and aiding children prosecuted as adults. Mr. Stevenson has argued and won multiple cases at the United States Supreme Court, including a 2019 ruling protecting condemned prisoners who suffer from dementia and a landmark 2012 ruling that banned mandatory life-imprisonment-without-parole sentences for all children 17 or younger. Mr. Stevenson and his staff have won reversals, relief, or release from prison for over 135 wrongly condemned prisoners on death row and won relief for hundreds of others wrongly convicted or unfairly sentenced. Mr. Stevenson has initiated major new anti-poverty and anti-discrimination efforts that challenge inequality in America. He led the creation of two highly acclaimed cultural sites which opened in 2018: the Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. These new national landmark institutions chronicle the legacy of slavery, lynching, and racial segregation, and the connection to mass incarceration and contemporary issues of racial bias. Mr. Stevenson is also a Professor of Law at the New York University School of Law.
6/19/20 • 21:09
In this episode of the Ideation Podcast, Charles Lee, CEO of Ideation, interviews Andrew Means, Senior Director of Global Impact Data Strategy for Salesforce.org, on framing the work and strategy of data and scaling social impact efforts. Andrew is a serial social entrepreneur leading organizations that use data and technology to create impact. In addition to working for Salesforce.org, he is also co-founder of social sector data infrastructure firm BrightHive and founder of professional development organization Data Analysts for Social Good, a professional organization for individuals interested in how data, technology, and analytics are changing the social sector. He has previously held leadership positions at Uptake.org, The University of Chicago’s Center for Data Science & Public Policy, and the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. He holds a Master in Public Policy from the Harris School at the University of Chicago. Andrew is a member of the Board of Directors at Ingenuity Inc., VolunteerMatch, and The Wabash Lights, and Chairman of the Board at 10k Windows.
6/12/20 • 49:57
In this episode of the Ideation Podcast, Jamie Gutfreund, Strategic Advisor at SuperAwesome and Anzu.io, shares her insights on topics including the present/future of digital, data + creativity, data-driven marketing, developing digital products, insights into Gen Z, mixed realities, gaming, and thriving in unchartered territories! Jamie Gutfreund is an accomplished executive with significant experience building teams, creating new products and delivering results. Jamie's current activities include her role as a board member for Tubular Labs, the leading measurement and analytics solution for social video as a strategic advisor for Kidtech start up, SuperAwesome and programmatic in-game platform Anzu (On Zu). Previously, she served as Chief Consumer Experience Officer for Hasbro, where she implemented the first programmatic media campaign, established an internal creative and analytics agency and supported the growth and expansion of Pulse, a direct-to-consumer commerce effort. Also, Jamie previously served as Global Chief Marketing Officer at WPP's Wunderman Thompson, with a specific focus on highlighting the work of the agency's 20,000+ creative thinkers, data scientists and technologists across the globe. Jamie lives in LA with her family and two dogs and remains a dedicated fan of the NY Giants.
6/10/20 • 55:11
In this episode of the Ideation Podcast, Xavier Ramey shares his thoughts on public policy-informed Corporate Social Responsibility, challenges and opportunities in diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, the power of civic engagement, and equity-focused philanthropy. Xavier Ramey is the CEO of Justice Informed, LLC, a social impact consulting firm based in Chicago, IL. He is an award-winning social strategist, noted public speaker, & conflict mediator. Combining his background in economics, extensive management & social impact experience, & direct action campaigning in the Black Lives Matter movement, Xavier leads a company that brings a wealth of experience & network to clients seeking catalyzed strategies for inclusion, philanthropy, CSR, & community engagement. A native Chicagoan, he is a recognizable voice on the topics of community and economic development, policing & policy violence, & connecting the Christian faith to our lived experience. Xavier served as the lead of the Social Innovation and Philanthropy strategy in the University of Chicago's Office of Civic Engagement, managed multi-million dollar philanthropic portfolios to stimulate employment, & worked as a nonprofit Director of Development in Chicago’s North Lawndale community. Xavier is a founding member of the #LetUsBreathe Collective, an artist-activist organization committed to addressing State violence against people of color. He is a Board member of Young Chicago Authors, & the Chicago Center for Arts and Technology. Links: Justice Informed Website: https://www.justiceinformed.com/ Xavier’s Personal Site: https://www.xavierramey.com/ Xavier’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xavierramey/ LetUsBreathe Collective: https://www.letusbreathecollective.com/
5/29/20 • 57:38
In this episode of the Ideation Podcast, Angie Richey, President of Life Pacific University, shares about her leadership journey, insights into building talented teams, removing limiting beliefs, caring for a team’s emotional health and wellness, and innovating the future of education. She also shares her thoughts on traits with Founders and/or Gen Z and their potential to impact our world. Angie has worked in numerous roles at the University prior to her presidency including VP of Enrollment and Chief Communications Officer in addition to being a professor. Angie is also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in psychodynamic and family systems therapy. She has specialities in several areas including strengths based education and emotional health and wellness.
5/27/20 • 41:31
In this episode of the Ideation Podcast, Chris Heuertz, Founding Partner at Gravity and Author of The Enneagram of Belonging, shares his insights into the Enneagram and its implications for self, relationships, spirituality and vocation. Topics include the origins and uniqueness of the Enneagram, true self vs. false self, personal liberation, nature vs. nurture, self-awareness, radical self-awareness, practicing compassion, virtues, making peace with our passions, and implications for the workplace. Chris Heuertz is a founding partner of Gravity, a Center for Contemplative Activism. Gravity exists to support the development of consciousness by offering contemplative retreats, spiritual direction, and Enneagram consultations and workshops. Chris spent nearly three decades in community organizing, international humanitarian work, and anti-human trafficking efforts, and was first introduced to the Enneagram in the slums of Cambodia. Since then he has trained under some of the great living Enneagram masters, and now teaches the Enneagram in workshops around the world as an International Enneagram Association Accredited Professional. Host of the Enneagram Mapmakers podcast, Chris is also featured in the new documentary NINE: The Enneagram Documentary, a journey across America to introduce the essence of the nine profile types. He is the author of seven books, including the award-winning bestseller The Sacred Enneagram and his latest work The Enneagram of Belonging; both are compassionate guides for those who want to incorporate personal growth and development with their Enneagram type.
5/20/20 • 60:03
In this episode of the Ideation Podcast, Stephen Robinson, Partner at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, shares his incredible journey from growing up in the projects in New York to becoming one of the most recognizable leaders in the legal profession. Judge Robinson openly shares about his childhood in poverty, the strength and wisdom of his mother, the pain of losing his wife to cancer, and his journey as a single father. In addition, he provides leadership insights learned from decades of leading teams through, solving complex problems, collaborating effectively with others, and making a difference in the world. Judge Stephen Robinson has had a varied career serving in high profile roles in both the public and private sectors. Judge Robinson currently is a partner in the Government Enforcement and White Collar Crime group at Skadden in New York City. Prior to joining Skadden in 2010, Judge Robinson served as a federal judge for the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. He was nominated for that position by President George W. Bush in 2003. In 1998, President Bill Clinton nominated Judge Robinson as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut, where he served for three years.
5/18/20 • 65:46
In this episode of the Ideation Podcast, Michele L. Sullivan, social impact advisor and former President of Caterpillar Foundation and Director of Corporate Social Innovation at Caterpillar, shares her story of being a young person born with dwarfism and overcoming personal and professional challenges in her career to create significant impact in our world. In spite of being looked down upon by others, Michele learned to look up: to lead with an elevated view of others, a philosophy that landed her at the helm of one of the world most prominent philanthropy organizations and ultimately changed the course of millions of lives. While Michele’s height presented challenges that are different from those most have experienced (including uniquely humorous moments), it allowed her to see things, literally and figuratively, that others do not. With inspiring style, she offers unique takeaways for individuals that attest to the fundamental role one’s perspective plays in becoming a better person and more influential leader who makes a big impact on the world. Michele is the Author of “Looking Up: How a Different Perspective Turns Obstacles into Advantages. She is also a globally recognized leader and advisor in social impact. Michele has also inspired millions through your talks on stages like TED, Dreamforce, SXSW, The Atlantic Festival, and Global Citizen Festival. She was named by Inside Philanthropy as one of the 50 most powerful women in philanthropy and also served as a U.S. delegate to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. Helpful Links: Michele’s Website: https://www.michelelsullivan.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/followmichelel/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Michele-L-Sullivan-Looking-UP-385745471985840/ Ideation’s Website: https://theideation.com/ Charles’ Links: https://linktr.ee/charlestlee
5/15/20 • 30:51
