Season 5, Episode 30. Socializing Innovation with Natalie Born
In this episode of Innovation Meets Leadership, host Natalie Born continues the Set It on Fire: The Art of Innovation series by diving into the topic of Socializing Innovation. Joined again by Moriah Hidden as guest-host, Natalie explores why innovation is no longer about brilliant individuals—it’s about building brilliant teams.
This conversation unpacks how leaders can break down silos, involve cross-functional voices early, and create environments where ideas can actually grow. Natalie shares practical insights on collaboration, communication, psychological safety, and the importance of involving others throughout the innovation process instead of operating in isolation.
[00:00 – 03:00] Introduction to Socializing Innovation
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Continuing the Set It on Fire series
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Why socializing innovation is a “superpower” for leaders and entrepreneurs
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The difference between having great ideas and successfully implementing them
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Innovation requires more than creativity—it requires collaboration
[03:01 – 06:00] Breaking Down Silos
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Why organizations struggle when teams work in isolation
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The importance of cross-functional collaboration early in the process
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“Innovation is no longer about brilliant individuals, it’s about brilliant teams.”
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Why some leaders avoid socializing ideas due to unhealthy environments or fear of resistance
[06:01 – 09:00] Creating Environments Where Ideas Can Thrive
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The impact culture has on innovation success
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Psychological safety and encouraging honest feedback
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Why leaders cannot surprise teams with innovation and expect buy-in
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How collaboration builds ownership across departments
[09:01 – 12:00] Perfectionism vs. Progress
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Why waiting for perfection slows innovation down
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The importance of iteration and feedback loops
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Learning to test, adjust, and improve ideas over time
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How innovation grows through refinement instead of isolation
[12:01 – 15:00] Communication & Buy-In
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The importance of communicating vision clearly and consistently
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Helping people understand the “why” behind innovation
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Why teams support what they help create
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Creating momentum by involving others throughout the process
[15:01 – 18:00] Collaboration Across Teams
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Practical examples of cross-functional collaboration
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Why diverse perspectives strengthen ideas
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Avoiding tunnel vision when building products, services, or strategies
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The role of leadership in unifying teams around a shared goal
[18:01 – 21:00] Feedback as a Gift
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Why customer and team feedback matter
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Learning from how people actually use products and services
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Listening instead of defending ideas
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Using feedback to improve innovation outcomes
[21:01 – 23:00] Leading Innovation Forward
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Building cultures that support experimentation and growth
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Encouraging curiosity, adaptability, and collaboration
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Why leaders must create space for innovation conversations
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Innovation succeeds when people feel included in the process
Key Quotes
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“Innovation is no longer about brilliant individuals, it’s about brilliant teams.” – Natalie Born
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“People support what they help create.” – Natalie Born
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“Feedback is a gift if you’re willing to listen.” – Natalie Born
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“The best ideas become stronger when other people are invited into the process.” – Natalie Born
Resources & Links
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalieborn
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Website: https://innovationmeetsleadership.com
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Frameworks & Resources: https://setitonfire.co
If this episode challenged your perspective on leadership and innovation, share it with someone building a team, leading a company, or trying to launch a new idea.
Don’t forget to explore Set It on Fire: The Art of Innovation for more insights on creating innovative cultures, building aligned teams, and turning ideas into action.
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