Natalie Turner

We record this episode of The XL Podcast 95 years ago to the day that US based Bell Labs revealed a system for transmitting television pictures. And while this took place almost a century ago, this image of innovation, one of “labs”, “reveals” and, let’s face it, men, driving the process is still persistent today.

Natalie Turner, co-founder of The Entheo Network, author of “Yes You Can Innovate”, joins us on the podcast today to help draw a map of modern innovation for enterprise. While disruptive technologies like a new form of television may be a form of innovation, it’s just one. There are not only many different forms of innovation (such as product, service or society) but also different types of innovators. In this conversation, Natalie discusses the different types of innovation mindsets and personalities. The “Igniters” (the first i of the 6) are the best known and most celebrated in media, but there are many other types of innovators who are both critical to making innovation a success and often overlooked leadership. Innovation is a lot more complex and diverse than those simpler days of Bell Labs.

Leaders today need to unlock innovation at all levels of the organization, and that starts with creating a framework for innovation. Igniters may be the spark to create change, but how leaders empower and support the “Identifiers”, “Investors” and the other innovation personalities is key to long term success. For the modern team, more inclusive conversations about innovation are fundamental to success. A recent Boston Consulting report noted that diverse teams are 2.2x more likely to be “innovation leaders” rather than laggards. These outcomes lie in smart process and smart cultures, rather than simply relying on smart people.

If innovation’s in your job title, you’re curious about what kind of innovator you are, or you’re leading transformation in your organization, this episode with Natalie Turner is a must listen.