Between Innovation Podcast

In this episode, Joe and Kathy unpack the difference between individual AI use and institutional intelligence and why that gap is where real value is either created or quietly lost. They open the showing talking about context, both the technical kind measured in tokens and context windows, and the human kind. Relationships. Systems. Strategy. The bigger picture most organizations are skipping as t...

AI is everywhere. It promises speed, efficiency, and competitive advantage. But beneath the headlines about automation and tech stacks lies a far more important question: what happens to the humans? In this episode of Between Innovation , we unpack insights from our recent webinar with the Institute of Directors in Mauritius, “Leading with Heart in the Age of AI.” Rather than diving into technical...

In this episode Kathy and Joe dive into one of the most foundational and often overlooked ideas in organizational development: “self as instrument”. Using humor, real client moments, and lessons from the field, they explore what it really means to walk into a room as a leader, facilitator, or consultant knowing you are the most influential tool you bring with you. From calibrating your energy and...

In this episode of Between Innovation, Kathy and Joe hold up the mirror to leadership and ask a tough question: What if you’re the biggest barrier to the change you want to see? Drawing from real-world conversations with leaders, they explore how common frustrations—like lack of ideas, weak accountability, or organizational silos—often reflect back on leadership behaviors themselves. Through stori...

In this episode we explore Positive Intelligence (PQ) — a powerful framework that helps us understand how our own minds can either propel us forward or quietly sabotage our growth, relationships, and creativity. Building on their recent conversation about emotional intelligence, we discuss how PQ expands that conversation by identifying our internal saboteurs — the mental patterns and voices roote...

In this episode of we discuss emotional intelligence (EQ) and how it is a changeable and learnable skill, unlike IQ, and is crucial for effective leadership, team building, and overall organizational success. We do a deep dive on all four quadrants of EQ: self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, and relationship management. We also talk about data that demonstrates how organizations focu...

In this episode we explore what it means to build a learning culture. How do we move beyond compliance and sending people to training sessions? How do we create an environment where curiosity is king, and everyone feels safe to ask "dumb" questions? We discuss how to actually make time for learning when your calendar is a minefield of meetings, and why celebrating "oops" moment...

In this episode we welcome a new friend from across the pond, Giles Hutchins. An author, coach, and advisor extraordinaire, Giles takes leaders into nature to inspire innovative thinking and regenerative leadership. He discusses his 30-year career of shifting business consciousness, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with nature, and unlocking creative potential and promoting psychological...

This episode of the Between Innovation podcast explores Appreciative Inquiry (AI), a strengths-based approach to organizational change and innovation. Key takeaways: Focus on the positive: Unlike traditional problem-solving approaches that focus on what's broken, AI encourages exploring peak experiences and strengths to fuel positive change. This shift in focus fosters a more hopeful and engaging...

Ever wonder what exactly design thinking is and how it can help your organization? We explore some of the key principles of this often misunderstood methodology. We also discuss how the human-centered principles of design thinking can be applied to any complex challenge — especially those related to people, leaders, and organizations.

Ever heard the phrase “Yes, and …”? Join us as we explore these two powerful words, their origin in improv, and their importance to innovation. We’ll also discuss: Why innovation requires space for everyone to participate and contribute The importance of self-awareness in innovation, including the need for individuals to understand their strengths and how they can contribute to the larger conversa...

We dive into the multifaceted world of creativity and challenge traditional notions that limit it to artistic pursuits. We discuss how creativity is an innate human capability, applicable to a wide range of fields and essential for problem-solving, innovation, and personal growth.  Creativity is not reserved for a select few. We debunk the idea that only artists or "creative types" are c...

Joe and Kathy discuss the pervasive language and behaviors that hinder innovation in the workplace. They delve into the overuse of "I" statements by leaders that leave team members feeling unheard and excluded. They also explore the impact of phrases like "I know," which can shut down conversations, and the detrimental effects of silence and lack of acknowledgment. Additionally...

Join Joe Watson and Kathy Wilcox, partners at Switch Innovation Lab, on the Between Innovation podcast as they delve into the human conditions necessary for innovation to thrive. In this episode, they tackle the often misunderstood concept of accountability, exploring how it can be a driving force for successful innovation. They discuss the importance of clarity, mutual accountability, and resourc...

This episode of the Between Innovation podcast delves deep into the concept of belonging and its profound impact on innovation, employee engagement, and organizational success. Co hosts Joe Watson and Kathy Wilcox explore how feeling like you belong can transform one's experience at work, leading to increased job performance, decreased turnover, and lessened sick days. They argue that creating...

In this episode we chat about the crucial role of clarity in bulding an innovative culture. We discuss multiple levels of clarity, from understanding individual roles and responsibilities to understanding the overarching purpose within an organization. The conversation highlights the challenges of achieving clarity in today's evolving work environments, including hybrid work models and the VUC...

The episode explores the concept of psychological safety, defining it as a shared belief among team members that taking risks, voicing opinions, and admitting mistakes won't lead to negative consequences. Joe and Kathy discuss how psychological safety allows for innovation, as it enables individuals to speak up, contribute ideas, and learn from mistakes. They examine how leaders can foster a p...

The episode covers the concept of human innovation in the workplace. Switch Innovation Lab partners Joe Watson and Kathy Wilcox discuss the five key factors essential for fostering an innovative environment: psychological safety, belonging, clarity, accountability, and motivation. We explain that innovation involves not just the output but the pathway, requiring human action. Emphasizing the role...