Episode 15 - Psychological Safety, Cognitive Diversity, Trust & Fear in Innovation 

Elijah Eilert is talking to Susie Braam and Ed Essey, two seasoned innovators. The episode takes you on a corporate innovation journey, covering how to define innovation and tips and tricks on how to measure it. The discussion sheds light on both innovation blockers and enablers, exploring concepts like psychological safety, cognitive diversity, trust, and fear. Furthermore, the conversation addresses the challenges and opportunities of innovation amidst an economic downturn and the transformative impact of cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence. The second part of the episode explores the defining traits of a genuine catalyst, driving impactful change within large organisations. A “cathartic and energising episode”. 

[00:00] Teaser & Innovation Metrics Podcast Intro

[01:35] Introducing the Guests, Susie Braam & Ed Essey 

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• Susie and Ed have known each other and worked together for a while. 
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• Both have also been quests on the show before. 
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[03:22] What is Innovation?

Different definitions for innovation are offered Susie defines innovation as something new that improves our lives, a combination of novelty and impact. The importance of a shared language within organizations for understanding innovation is emphasized. Innovation under the current economic climate and technological shifts is discussed. 

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• Susie defines innovation as something new that makes our lives better in some way, a combination of novelty and impact. Ed presents a metaphor where innovation can be viewed as fruit, trees, or soil, depending on the focus of innovation efforts. 
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• Everybody emphasizes the importance of speaking the same language within an organization to align on the understanding of innovation.
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• The challenges faced by innovation leaders are discussed, especially when innovation is narrowly defined as focusing solely on generating new products and services (the fruit) without considering the importance of culture and processes (trees and soil). Ed notes that such roles often face challenges due to the pressure for immediate high returns, making it difficult for them to stay in the position for long. 
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• The conversation shifts to the current economic climate, with Susie noting that many organizations are more cautious and focused on optimization and efficiencies due to a possible recession. Ed adds that it's an interesting time for technology as there's a generational shift with language models like GPT becoming more accessible, which offer new opportunities for innovation. They agree that companies that embrace the potential of new technologies and continue to invest in exploration are likely to succeed in the long run.
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[19:22] How do you think innovation should be measured?

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• The questions are divided into measuring innovation outcome vs process.
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• The challenges of measuring progress in the innovation process are discussed. Susie emphasizes the importance of