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In today’s inspiring 16th episode, we welcome Kevin Bethune, a visionary who blends engineering, business strategy, and design into a groundbreaking career. Kevin's journey from nuclear engineering to designing iconic Nike products is a testament to curiosity and conviction. Now the founder of Dreams, Design, and Life, he shares his philosophy on human-centered design, highlighting inclusivity, empathy, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Kevin reveals how empowering teams, embracing non-linear paths, and making space for creativity drive innovation. He also discusses how design can create a more ethical and sustainable future, drawing insights from his TED talks and books. Don’t miss this conversation with an innovator redefining design and leadership.

Learn more about Kevin:

• Website: Dreams, Design, and Life
• LinkedIn: Kevin Bethune
• Books: Reimagining Design: Unlocking Strategic Innovation by Kevin Bethune

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In today’s 14th episode, we’re honored to feature a true pioneer at the heart of digital innovation, Jay Samit.
Dubbed the godfather of digital media, Jay’s remarkable journey spans over three decades, from revolutionizing startups to steering Fortune 500 companies toward groundbreaking success.

An international bestseller and the visionary former CEO of a NASDAQ-listed company, his collaborations have shaped the digital landscape, impacting everything from LinkedIn to Sony and extending advice to figures as influential as the Pope and Presidents.

Jay's insights into mobile technology, augmented reality, and digital transformation have driven billions in daily consumer use and positioned him as a forecaster of technological trends, teaching innovation at USC and featuring regularly in Fortune.

Beyond his professional accolades, Jay’s passion for magic and pop art reveals a fascinating layer to his persona, reminding us that transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary is not just a metaphor but a lived reality.

Fun fact: Jay worked his way through college as a magician and is still a performing member of the Magic Castle in Hollywood.
Join us as we explore the mind of a man who predicts the future and actively shapes it.

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Dive into a riveting "Conversations with Roberto" session as your host, Roberto Inderbitzin, chats with the legendary Guy Kawasaki! This episode is packed with chuckles, charm, and wisdom as Guy opens up about the twists and turns of his vibrant journey through the tech and publishing worlds. Every minute is brimming with insights, from sharing his secret sauce to creating iconic products to revealing why you should be planting more acorns (yes, acorns!). And, oh! Don’t miss out on Guy’s hilarious take on venture capitalism—it’s like throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what sticks! Wrap up your listening by getting the scoop on Guy’s latest gem, "Think Remarkable," which you need to read to sprinkle some extra awesome into your life.

Key Takeaways:
1. Embracing Resilience with a Smile: Learn from Guy's acorn-planting adventures how resilience can lead to impactful, long-term outcomes in life and business.
2. The Power of Laughter: Guy's use of humor not only entertains, but also transforms the complex into something simple and memorable. His approach enlightens us on the transformative power of laughter.
3. Mentors Matter: Guy's story highlights the profound influence of mentors in his life, showing us that the right guidance can be the support we need to set us on the path to greatness.

**Extra Insight:**
- **Riding the Wave of Change:** Guy gives us the lowdown on adapting to technological revolutions, especially the seismic shifts brought about by artificial intelligence. Tune in to get ahead of the curve!

Remember, this isn’t just any conversation—it’s your gateway to becoming remarkable. Tune in, laugh, learn, and perhaps change how you see the world!

Links:
https://guykawasaki.com/
https://www.kawasakigpt.com/

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Welcome to episode 13 of our podcast, where today's journey takes us into the heart of creativity and innovation with none other than the design visionary Robert Brunner.

Strap in as we unravel the story of a man whose designs have shaped products and defined entire categories. Robert's influence spans across the globe, from the sleek lines of Beats by Dre to the cutting-edge elegance of products for Polaroid, Square, and even Ferrari.

In this episode, he pulls back the curtain on his remarkable journey from the groundbreaking beginnings at Lunar Design to his pivotal role at Apple, where, alongside Sir Jony Ive, he set the stage for a new design era.

As a founder and partner of Ammunition, his insights have propelled brands into the future, earning him a spot among Fast Company's "Most Creative People in Business" and his work a place in the Museum of Modern Arts permanent design collection.

But that's just scratching the surface. Today, Robert shares exciting stories of his collaborations with industry giants, reveals the driving forces behind his creative process, and gives us a glimpse into the future of design. This episode is a deep dive into the mind of a man who believes in the power of design to change the world.

Get ready for an inspiring journey through the landscapes of imagination and ingenuity with Robert Brunner.

Fun fact:
Robert's father was an inventor who built two boats from scratch in their driveway, influencing Robert's maker mentality and love for craftsmanship.
— let's begin.

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The podcast episode with Stefan, an entrepreneur with a keen eye for design and innovation, delves into his remarkable journey in the business world. He shares his experiences, from his early ventures in contemporary furniture to his groundbreaking work with POC, a company focused on enhancing safety in gravity sports. Stefan's narrative is about creating successful businesses and infusing them with a deeper purpose and commitment to sustainability.

Key Highlights:

Entrepreneurial Journey: Stefan's entrepreneurial path began in the furniture industry, where he developed a keen interest in contemporary design. He founded several companies, including CNBI Interior and CVI, and worked on significant projects like IKEA PS. His journey reflects a constant evolution towards more meaningful and impactful business ventures.

Founding POC and Cake: Stefan founded POC to save lives in gravity sports, emphasizing the importance of safety and innovation. Later, he ventured into electric mobility with CAKE, focusing on electric motorcycles and showcasing his dedication to innovative, environmentally friendly transportation solutions, even toward zero emission.

Focus on Sustainability and Quality: Throughout the episode, Stefan stresses the importance of sustainability and high-quality products. He criticizes the fast consumption model and advocates for products that last longer and are better for the environment. This philosophy is evident in his approach to both POC and CAKE.

Navigating Business Challenges: Stefan discusses the challenges of balancing innovation with market realities, especially in the context of investor expectations and the need to maintain quality and ethical practices.

Conservation Initiatives: The episode also highlights Stefan's involvement in conservation efforts, such as providing electric motorcycles to rangers in Africa to combat poaching. This project underscores the potential of new technology and clean energy in conservation efforts.

Overall, the episode offers a comprehensive look at Stefan's entrepreneurial career, his approach to business, and his commitment to creating products and ventures that are not only innovative but also sustainable and purpose-driven.

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Chris Bangle, renowned for his transformative work in the automotive design world and former BMW Chief of Design, is an authority in Design. His consultancy, Chris Bangle Associates (CBA), is based in Italy and has been a beacon of innovation.

Now, taking another bold step, Bangle has launched Inanimatti Inc., a production business set to debut its first project at Mipcom.

During his 17-year tenure leading Design for BMW, Bangle was celebrated for reimagining iconic brands such as Mini, Rolls Royce, and BMW designs.

His early influences trace back to hands-on experiences, like working in a printing shop, which instilled a tangible sense of creation in him. Educated at ArtCenter, Chris imbibed a rigorous design philosophy, emphasizing meticulous craftsmanship. His passion extends to comics, using them as tools to communicate sustainability in Design.

One of the most poignant examples of his empathetic approach is the Design project RED, which delves into the needs of the car's occupants, which stands over 90% still, and into pregnant women's unique needs and challenges. Such an empathetic approach ensures that products resonate on a deeply personal level with their users. Chris champions design, emphasizing sustainability, empathy, and the importance of collaboration, as seen in the "Deep Blue" project.

However, he's not without concerns, notably about the car design industry's current trajectory. A fun anecdote he shared was the "Great Horse Manure Crisis" of the 1800s, highlighting how innovation can tackle unforeseen challenges.

But Chris's innovation doesn't stop at cars or comics. His company is creating an animation series titled "Arky Arch Adventures," promising to be a delightful experience for kids and adults. This series, infused with the same ethos of empathy and innovation, is touted to be unlike anything we've seen before, marking the debut of Chris Bangle's production company, Inanimatti Inc.

Throughout his career, Chris has consistently advocated for continuous learning and challenging the status quo.

Links:
Linkedin Chris Bangle
www.chrisbangleassociates.com
www.arkyarch.com

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Joe Foster is a British businessman and co-founder of the sportswear company Reebok. Born into a shoemaking family, Foster and his brother Jeff started Reebok in 1958. Under Foster's leadership, Reebok grew from a small running shoe company into a global sportswear brand, known for its innovative designs and marketing strategies. His entrepreneurial spirit and innovation have significantly influenced the sportswear industry.

What did we talk about:
In this episode, we have an engaging conversation with Joe Foster, the co-founder of the sportswear giant, Reebok. Joe shares his journey, starting from his early life in a family that was already immersed in the shoe business, J.W. Foster and Sons, a company credited with the invention of the spiked running shoe.

Despite not being a running enthusiast himself, Joe was deeply involved in the shoe business from a young age. He and his brother Jeff found themselves in the midst of a failing family business, marred by constant feuding between their father and uncle. This led them to make the bold decision to leave and start their own venture, which would eventually become the globally recognized brand, Reebok.

Joe provides insights into the evolution of shoes, from performance-based footwear to versatile designs that could be worn on the street, expanding the market for their products significantly. He also shares an interesting anecdote about basketball player Shaquille O'Neal, who switched to Reebok simply because they offered a shoe in his size (22), which Nike did not.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Joe reflects on the rapid pace of technological change and its impact on business and society. He candidly admits his struggle to fully comprehend concepts like the metaverse and cryptocurrencies, despite understanding what they are.

Joe also shares his experiences during World War II, his time in the scouting movement, and his national service, all of which he believes instilled in him discipline and confidence. Towards the end of the episode, he discusses the challenges of running a company amidst internal conflict, drawing from his experiences with his father and uncle. He leaves us with the important lesson of looking towards the future and adapting to change.

Tune in to this episode for a deep dive into the life of a man who has been at the heart of the sportswear industry and has witnessed its evolution firsthand.

Links:
- https://www.reebokthefounder.com
- https://www.instagram.com/reebokthefounder
- https://onegoldennugget.com/reebokthefounder

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"Don't be a team of Stars, but a Star Team!" - Dr. Dennis Vogt

Who is Dr. Dennis Vogt

Dr. Dennis Vogt is an esteemed marketing and consumer behavior expert, currently serving as a lecturer at the University of St. Gallen. In addition, he is a Managing Partner at The Transformation Group, where he guides businesses through strategic and organizational transformations. Some of his prestigious clients are brands such as Porsche, MIGROS, BMW, KIND, STIHL, and many others.

Previously, he led the Center for Innovation at the University of St. Gallen, focusing on successfully commercializing innovative products and services. In addition, he completed his doctoral thesis on the perception of innovations at the Institute for Customer Insight at the University of St. Gallen. Dr. Vogt is also the founder of the housekeeping startup Jeffrey.

What we talked about

Introduction: In this episode, host Roberto sits down with Dennis Vogt, to explore the complex aspects of innovation and brand positioning. Dennis shares his business, aeronautical engineering, and psychology expertise, providing valuable insights into creating successful innovations that capture people's attention in a noisy market while maintaining meaningfulness. In addition, they discuss the importance of showcasing unique features and specific benefits to differentiate a brand and effectively communicate its value to customers.

Episode Highlights:

- The importance of balancing novelty and meaningfulness in innovation

- Understanding the need for innovations to be perceived as innovative by customers

- Case study: Dyson's successful differentiation through cyclone technology and effective communication of benefits

- Challenges in the innovation process and the concept of "Emerging Nature Consumers" as valuable contributors

- Involving customers with open minds, visual thinking skills, and high empathy levels in innovation processes

- Prioritizing star teams that work well together and emphasizing the importance of collaboration

- The role of shared values and a clear mission in fostering a thriving company culture

- Skepticism towards generational research and the importance of individualism in understanding the Generation Z

- Being critical of research methodologies and market insights before making decisions

Conclusion: This engaging conversation with Dennis Vogt sheds light on innovation, brand positioning, and decision-making nuances. Listeners will gain valuable insights into balancing novelty and meaningfulness, involving customers effectively, building star teams, and being critical of data and research methodologies.

Follow Dr. Dennis Vogt:

Website: https://www.drdennisvogt.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-dennis-vogt
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdennisvogt

The Transformation Group: https://the-transformation-group.ch

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