The Innovation Show

Hosted by Aidan McCullen

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500

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Sep 2025

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About the show

A Global weekly show interviewing authors to inspire, educate and inform the business world and the curious. Presented by the author of "Undisruptable", this Global show speaks of something greater beyond innovation, disruption and technology. It speaks to the human need to learn: how to adapt and love a changing world. It embraces the spirit of constant change, of staying receptive, of always learning.

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September 24, 20251 hr 1 min

Michael Raynor on Strategy RAP Model BCE Case Study

In this episode, Michael Raynor — author of The Strategy Paradox and co-author with Clayton Christensen of The Innovator’s Solution — joins Aidan McCullen to explore why most strategies fail and how leaders can fix them. From the RAP (Resource Allocation Process) model to the real-world case of BCE’s diversification journey, Raynor unpacks how strategy is shaped by resource allocation, risk, and CEO intervention. Learn how top leaders can navigate uncertainty, overcome divisional barriers, and unlock strategic synergies. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why strategies often fail — and the CEO’s role in fixing them How the RAP model explains real-world decision-making Lessons from BCE’s diversification journey The tension between divisional goals and corporate strategy Practical tools for managing risk and strategic integration ⏱️ Episode Guide 00:00 Intro & Kyndryl Overview 00:28 Historical Perspectives on Strategy 00:57 Approaches to Resource Allocation 02:36 Guest Introduction: Michael Raynor 03:13 Academic Journey & Mentors 07:35 The RAP Model Explained 11:32 Challenges in Strategic Decision Making 22:51 BCE’s Diversification Story 31:46 Entering Mobile Telephony 32:28 Strategic Synergies & Capital Constraints 33:48 Independent Operations & Market Dynamics 35:19 Challenges of Strategic Integration 36:11 Retail Distribution & Evolutionary Lessons 38:36 Governance Rights & Incentive Structures 48:31 Historical Lessons & Modern Applications 58:20 Concluding Thoughts & Future Directions 🚀 Topics Covered: strategy, resource allocation, RAP model, diversification, BCE, corporate governance, disruptive innovation, CEO decision-making, real options, strategic integration. 👉 If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, share, and explore more insights at https://thethursdaythought.substack.com

September 10, 20251 hr 17 min

Why Failure Fuels Success with Manu Kapur | The Power of Productive Failure

What if failure wasn’t the end, but the beginning of real growth? In this episode, Aidan McCullen sits down with Manu Kapur, author of Productive Failure, to explore how struggle, setbacks, and mistakes can actually unlock deep learning, creativity, and adaptability. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why productive failure is the secret to lifelong learning How to turn mistakes into powerful growth mindset strategies Why even “good lectures” don’t always create deep understanding How leaders and innovators can use failure to adapt in a changing world The psychology of resilience, success, and transformation   Find Manu Kapur: https://www.manukapur.com From a soccer career cut short by injury to becoming a global thought leader in education innovation, Manu shares stories and research that challenge how we think about failure. Whether you’re a teacher, leader, parent, or entrepreneur, this conversation will help you embrace failure as a pathway to success.

August 27, 202538 min

Sangeet Paul Choudary - Reshuffle: Figma Adobe and Just about Everything

What happens when startups like Figma outpace industry giants like Adobe? In this episode of The Innovation Show, Aidan McCullen sits down with bestselling author Sangeet Paul Choudary (Platform Revolution, Reshuffle) to explore how AI, cloud technology, and mindset shifts are reshaping the future of work, design, and competition. Discover why incumbents often fail—not from lack of innovation, but from failing to unlearn old architectures. Using the case of Figma vs. Adobe, we unpack how element-based design, governance-led workflows, and AI-first thinkingare redefining industries from design to law to construction. Key takeaways: Why adapting mindsets matters more than adopting tools How AI is unbundling knowledge work and rewriting career paths The importance of governance in enterprise-wide collaboration Why the forgetting curve is as critical as the learning curve   Perfect for innovators, leaders, and professionals navigating the knowledge economy, this episode is a roadmap for thriving in a world of structural uncertainty where AI and cloud-native startups are rewriting the rules. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:17 The Hammer and the Nail: Misreading New Technology 00:28 Adobe vs. Figma: A Case Study in Innovation 01:03 The Importance of Mindset in Technological Shifts 01:20 Guest Introduction: Sanjeet Paul Choudary 01:49 Figma vs. Adobe: A Deep Dive 04:07 Technological Shifts and Organizational Change 05:57 The Impact of AI on Work and Careers 17:00 Governance vs. Execution in Modern Enterprises 18:22 The Future of Competition and Industry Structure 21:40 The Need for Unlearning in the Age of AI 24:34 Preparing for the Future: Skills and Careers 36:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 38:05 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Message   📚 Resources & Links • Reshuffle: Who Wins When AI Reshapes the Knowledge Economy → https://amzn.to/3HWwj1I • Platform Revolution → https://amzn.to/4mBq2aQ • Sangeet’s Substack → https://substack.com/@platforms/posts • Aidan’s show notes → https://thethursdaythought.substack.com 🎙️ Listen now to learn how to reshuffle your thinking, your organization, and your career for the AI-driven future.    

August 12, 20251 hr 30 min

Elise Loehnen - On Our Best Behaviour

We delve into Elise Loehnan's acclaimed book 'On Our Best Behaviour,' exploring the societal and cultural forces shaping women's behaviors and the concept of the 'seven deadly sins.' Elise discusses the ingrained cultural pressures that lead women to self-denial and the impact of patriarchal norms. We explore topics such as envy, pride, sloth, and the importance of embracing both masculine and feminine energies for a balanced life. Join us for an eye-opening conversation with insights on redefining cultural narratives and reclaiming full selves.   00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:35 The Cultural Conditioning of Women 01:39 Guest Introduction: Elise London 02:01 Personal Struggles and Panic Attacks 03:48 The Pressure of Perfection 07:53 The Concept of Goodness in Women 13:45 Historical Myths and Gender Roles 19:17 The Origins of the Seven Deadly Sins 28:47 The Witch Trials and Cultural Trauma 37:08 Balancing Roles and Responsibilities 47:09 Embracing Discomfort and Presence 48:10 Understanding Envy as a Directional Signal 48:29 The Gateway to Other Sins: Envy 49:45 Women and Envy: A Cultural Examination 50:33 The Role of Envy in Personal Desires 53:21 Reframing Envy and Scarcity 54:28 The Impact of Cultural Narratives on Women 01:09:07 Pride and Gender Bias in the Workplace 01:17:13 The Importance of Sadness and Emotional Expression 01:28:23 Final Thoughts and Call to Action   Find Elise:   Podcast:   Substack:   New Book:    On Our Best Behaviour Book:

August 7, 202549 min

Steven Gundry - The Gut Brain Paradox

Unveiling the Gut-Brain Connection: Dr. Steven Gundry on Leaky Gut, Microbiome, and Health   In today's episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of the gut-brain connection with Dr. Steven Gundry, a prolific author and expert on the subject. Starting with a brief introduction about our sponsor, Kyndryl, we explore the historical context of medical insights from figures like Hippocrates and Ignaz Semmelweis. Dr. Gundry shares compelling stories from his practice, including miraculous patient turnarounds attributed to gut health. We discuss the latest in microbiome research, the concept of leaky gut, and how our gut's terrain influences overall health. Learn about the critical role of bacteria in our body's ecosystem, the intelligence of microorganisms, and their impact on our well-being. Join us as we unlock the secrets of a balanced inner terrain and its implications for a healthier life.   00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:30 Dedications and Historical Insights 02:06 Guest Introduction: Stephen Gundry 03:04 Remarkable Patient Stories 07:19 The Gut-Brain Connection 12:52 Historical Debate: Pasteur vs. Bechamp 16:58 Microbiome Discoveries and Implications 19:08 Bacterial Intelligence and Communication 26:29 Elephant Communication and Eavesdropping 27:04 Understanding Leaky Gut 27:52 Aging Research and Sea Elegans 29:45 The Role of Tight Junctions in Gut Health 32:46 Impact of Diet and Antibiotics on Gut Health 36:44 Environmental Toxins and Autoimmune Diseases 37:40 Lipopolysaccharides and Immune Response 42:03 The Rise of Food Sensitivities and Allergies 47:05 Gut Microbiome and Food Cravings 48:10 Conclusion and Resources Find Steven: https://drgundry.com

July 22, 202558 min

Gary Hamel - Humanocracy Finale Reinventing Roche

In this episode, we conclude the comprehensive series on Gary Hamel and 'Humanocracy,' diving deep into the principles and practices that can transform entrenched bureaucracies into more dynamic and innovative organizations. Host Aidan interviews Gary Hamel to discuss the persistent issue of bureaucracy stifling economic growth and the groundbreaking transformation at Roche as a case study. The conversation covers the increasing bureaucracy in global companies, the decline in productivity, and innovative methods like outcome-based planning and cross-functional squads to elevate organizational efficiency. The episode also emphasizes personal accountability and offers actionable steps for leaders aiming to foster a more adaptive and resilient work environment. This informative discussion is a must-watch for CEOs and business leaders looking to revolutionize their companies.   00:00 Introduction and Giveaway Announcement 00:52 The Problem with Bureaucracy in Organizations 06:16 Case Study: Roche's Transformation 11:16 Leadership Reboot and Principles at Roche 20:31 Implementing Change: Design Teams and I Squads 26:34 Outcome-Based Planning and Resource Allocation 29:53 Resource Allocation and Organizational Ethos 31:16 Resilience in the Face of Challenges 32:59 Leadership and Change Management 37:47 Cross-Functional Squads and Collaboration 42:43 Patient-Centric Approach 46:31 Personal Accountability and Bureaucracy 50:30 Experimentation and Innovation 56:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Find Gary 

June 9, 202553 min

Joseph L. Bower on Resource Allocation and Strategy

Joseph L. Bower on Resource Allocation and Strategy "Where you stand depends on where you sit." In this exclusive episode of The Innovation Show, Harvard legend Joseph L. Bower shares the untold story behind his groundbreaking work on Resource Allocation to Strategy — a theory that has shaped generations of business leaders, strategists, and scholars. Bower reveals: How real strategy emerges through the decisions of middle managers Why structure drives strategy more than PowerPoint slides do What we can learn from Lou Hughes at Opel, and the power of acting before HQ gives permission Insights into companies like GM, Timken, and even Tesla This is a masterclass in how strategy really works — not in theory, but on the ground. Revisit the origins of strategic thought that still matter today. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Announcement 00:42 Introducing the Guest: Joseph L. Bower 03:16 The Origins of Resource Allocation Theory 05:30 Insights from the Field: Case Studies and Key Learnings 17:26 The Role of Empathy and Perspective in Management 20:57 Case Study: Opel's Strategic Response to the Berlin Wall 35:38 Case Study: Timken's Bottom-Up Acquisition 38:04 The Importance of Learning and Adaptation in Strategy 52:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 53:25 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Acknowledgment   Thanks to our sponsor Kyndryl: 

May 18, 202545 min

Gary Hamel - What Matters Now Part 1

Join us in this insightful episode as we welcome back Gary Hamel, author of 'What Matters Now: How to Win in a World of Relentless Change, Ferocious Competition, and Unstoppable Innovation.' In this episode, Gary discusses his latest book, which provides an agenda for building resilient organizations amidst dynamic global challenges. The conversation delves into the importance of core values such as stewardship, accountability, and equity. Gary also reflects on the 2008 financial crisis and its lessons on ethical leadership and innovation. Tune in to explore how businesses can rehumanize their approach, foster a culture of innovation, and retain a sense of purpose and moral high ground.   00:00 Introduction to the Book and Author 01:22 Dedication and Personal Insights 02:13 Book Structure and Context 03:29 The Importance of Values 04:02 Capitalism and Ethical Challenges 10:50 Learning from the Financial Crisis 16:53 Rediscovering Farmer Values 21:19 Renouncing Capitalism's Conceits 29:16 Reclaiming the Noble in Business 38:07 The Importance of Innovation 45:07 Conclusion and Contact Information     Gary Hamel, What Matters Now, Reinventing Management, Future of Work, Innovation Culture, Organizational Change, Capitalism Reform, Moral Leadership, Business Ethics, Corporate Accountability, Management Strategy, Values in Business, Adaptive Organizations, Leadership Innovation, Future-Ready Companies, Strategic Agility, Purpose-Driven Leadership, Post-Crisis Management, Employee Empowerment, Organizational Renewal

May 11, 202554 min

Gary Hamel - The Future of Management Part 2

Welcome to part two of our enlightening series with special guest, Gary Hamel. In this episode, we dive deep into Hamel's insights from his book and explore the evolution of unconventional management models through case studies of pioneering companies like W.L. Gore & Associates and Google. We discuss the principles that distinguish innovative organizations, the challenges of breaking free from traditional hierarchical structures, and the critical role of purpose in driving change. With real-life examples and practical advice, this conversation is a must-watch for anyone interested in future-proofing their organization and reigniting the human spirit at work.   00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back 00:39 Exploring Gore's Unique Management Structure 04:13 Leadership and Followership at Gore 06:26 Commitments vs Assignments at Gore 08:07 Innovation and Collaboration at Gore 20:13 Google's Evolution and Challenges 26:25 Management Innovation: A Critical Necessity 27:00 A Disenchanted View of Google 28:17 The Importance of Lateral Communication 29:51 Utilizing Technology for Collective Intelligence 33:18 Challenging Organizational Orthodoxy 47:20 The Role of Purpose in Driving Change 52:39 Concluding Thoughts on Management Reinvention   The Future of Management, Gary Hamel, Management Innovation, Leadership, Organizational Culture, Collaboration, Gore, Bill Gore, Gore-Tex, Decentralized Management, Employee Empowerment, Hierarchy, Organizational Design, Innovative Companies, Workplace Culture, Management Practices, Leadership Development, Decision-Making, Peer Evaluation, Team Dynamics

May 5, 20251 hr 11 min

Gary Hamel - The Future of Management Part 1

In this insightful episode, Gary Hamel discusses the foundational ideas behind his book, 'The Future of Management.' Delving into the historical context and evolution of management principles, Hamel explores how long-standing conventions, established by early 20th-century theorists like Frederick Winslow Taylor and Max Weber, continue to shape modern companies. He underscores the need for a radical rethink in organizational management to address contemporary challenges such as innovation, strategic renewal, and employee engagement. Drawing parallels from history, Hamel illustrates how groundbreaking management innovations in companies like Whole Foods, WL Gore, and Nucor have driven exceptional performance. He emphasizes the importance of creating human-centric workplaces that inspire and motivate employees, advocating for a shift away from bureaucratic, control-driven models towards environments rooted in purpose, community, and mutual respect. Join us for part one of this engaging conversation with one of management’s leading thinkers.   00:00 Introduction to the Future of Management 02:01 The Origins of Modern Management 04:17 The Evolution of Management Innovation 08:49 Military Analogies in Management 12:34 The Layers of Innovation 22:20 Historical Management Innovations 29:56 The Industrial Revolution and Management 36:48 The Overlooked Innovation: Management 37:20 Taylor's Influence on Productivity 38:00 Ford's System and Its Limitations 39:04 Bureaucracy: A Double-Edged Sword 41:32 Adapting to the Knowledge Economy 43:16 The Role of Computational Power and Connectivity 45:50 The Need for Organizational Innovation 53:34 Case Studies: Whole Foods and Gore 01:01:54 Building Human-Centric Organizations 01:05:03 Concluding Thoughts on Leadership and Innovation