Season 5, Episode 3. No-Excuses Innovation with Bruce Vojak
Innovation is often seen as the domain of tech giants and industry disruptors, but what about small and medium-sized enterprises? Are they at a disadvantage, or do they have unique opportunities to innovate faster than their larger competitors?
Bruce Vojak, founder of Breakthrough Innovation Advisors and author of No Excuses Innovation, joins the podcast to discuss why mature businesses struggle with innovation, the fears that hold them back, and the simple, low-cost steps they can take to start thinking differently. He breaks down the myths surrounding innovation and provides practical insights for business leaders looking to stay ahead of the curve.
[00:01 - 05:48] The Innovation Struggle for Small Businesses
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Why mature enterprises often avoid innovation
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Understanding the S-curve and business growth cycles
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The danger of focusing only on efficiency instead of renewal
[05:49 - 10:33] The Three Barriers to Innovation
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Expertise gaps in mature companies
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Financial mindsets that resist risk-taking
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The role of fear in preventing new ideas
[10:34 - 15:24] Culture as the Key to Innovation
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How company culture can either unlock or stifle innovation
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The balance between empowerment and accountability
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Lessons from Hewlett-Packard’s Medal of Defiance
[15:25 - 20:00] Innovation Without Big Budgets
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Why innovation doesn’t have to be expensive
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Small but effective ways to start innovating today
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The power of listening to customers for ideas
[20:01 - 24:12] Practical Takeaways for Business Leaders
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Looking for patterns in customer behavior
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Turning small workarounds into real innovations
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The importance of a discovery mindset in leadership
Quotes:
"A lot of companies excel at streamlining operations, but few have the expertise to truly renew their business." – Bruce Vojak
"Innovation doesn’t have to be a massive initiative. It starts with asking the right questions and listening to your customers." – Bruce Vojak
Connect with Bruce:
Website: https://www.breakthrough-innovation-advisors.com/bruce-vojak/
LinkeIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bvojak
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