In this episode of Breakthrough Innovation, we’re excited to welcome Paul Heard, a renowned business transformation leader with a passion for both technology and ski instruction. Paul takes us through his journey from leading multi-billion-dollar transformations at HP to coaching executives on AI, cybersecurity, and workforce upskilling. His unique perspective, blending structured corporate strategy with the agility of ski coaching, offers invaluable lessons on driving change in complex organizations.

The Intersection of Leadership and Ski Instruction:

Paul reveals how his experience as a ski instructor influences his approach to business transformation. Discover how creating a safe and engaging learning environment can foster innovation and adaptability in corporate settings.

Overcoming Resistance to Change:

Why do so many businesses struggle with transformation? Paul breaks down the common roadblocks leaders face and shares strategies to shift from process-driven to value-driven decision-making.

Psychological Safety as the Key to Innovation:

Explore how fostering an environment where teams feel safe to take risks leads to breakthrough innovations—whether in technology, leadership, or corporate strategy.

AI, Cybersecurity, and the Future of Work:

Paul provides insights into leveraging AI and cybersecurity to drive efficiency while ensuring employees stay relevant in a rapidly evolving workforce.

The Balance Between Standardization and Differentiation:

Discover how businesses can standardize operations while still maintaining a unique competitive edge, and why flexibility is crucial in today’s fast-changing market.

Lessons from High-Stakes Transformations:

Paul shares real-world stories from his career, detailing how he helped global organizations navigate multi-billion-dollar changes—and the lessons leaders can apply to their own businesses.

Embracing a Growth Mindset:

From the ski slopes to the boardroom, Paul emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning, adaptability, and resilience in leadership and business success.

• Change starts with people—building trust and engagement is essential.
• Psychological safety fuels innovation—teams perform best when they feel supported.
• AI and cybersecurity are reshaping business—leaders must proactively adapt.
• Transformation isn’t just about technology—it’s about shifting mindsets.

Links And Resources:

• Connect with Paul Heard on LinkedIn

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In this episode of Breakthrough Innovation, we’re excited to welcome Brad Messer, a venture builder, acquisition entrepreneur, and AI strategist. Brad takes us on a deep dive into his journey—from his early days at IBM to pioneering AI-driven businesses in high-impact industries. With a sharp focus on market research, risk mitigation, and scaling ventures, Brad shares invaluable insights on how to leverage technology and data to build sustainable, high-growth companies.

From IBM to AI Entrepreneurship:

Brad reflects on his transition from working at a global tech giant to launching innovative businesses. Learn how his experience in corporate strategy and AI implementation shaped his approach to identifying market gaps.

Spotting Opportunities Through Market Research:

Discover how Brad uncovers untapped potential in industries like construction and healthcare, where AI and automation can drive massive efficiency gains.

Balancing Profit with Purpose:

Brad shares his philosophy on building businesses that not only generate revenue but also create real-world impact. Learn how entrepreneurs can align profit motives with meaningful problem-solving.

De-Risking Entrepreneurship:

Explore Brad’s step-by-step process for testing and validating ideas before scaling, ensuring that new ventures are positioned for success.

Navigating Resistance to Innovation:

Adopting new technology isn’t always easy. Brad discusses common challenges in AI adoption and how to educate stakeholders on the benefits of data-driven decision-making.

Lessons from Failure:

Brad opens up about the setbacks he’s faced—from launching ventures that didn’t scale to navigating evolving market demands. Find out how failure played a crucial role in his entrepreneurial growth.

Advice for Founders and Innovators:

For those looking to build AI-driven businesses, Brad emphasizes the importance of staying adaptable, leveraging data, and continuously refining strategies.

• Use market research to uncover opportunities before launching a business.
• Mitigate risk by testing and iterating on ideas before scaling.
• Educate stakeholders on the benefits of AI and automation.
• Embrace failure as a stepping stone to long-term success.

Links And Resources:

• Connect with Brad Messer on LinkedIn

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In this episode of Breakthrough Innovation, we’re excited to welcome Frank DeLuca—engineer, entrepreneur, and the founder of DDSports and DeLuca Design Business Academy. Frank shares his inspiring transition from a corporate engineering career to launching his own business, bringing innovative products like the StoolPak to life. With a background in aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, Frank has helped companies save millions through automation and now applies his expertise to product development and e-commerce.

From College Football to Engineering Mastery:

Frank reflects on his journey from playing college football to finding his passion in mechanical engineering. He discusses how sports taught him discipline, teamwork, and resilience—skills that later fueled his success in business.

Bridging the Gap Between Engineering and Entrepreneurship:

What does it take to move from a stable engineering career to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship? Frank shares how he made the leap, the fears he had to overcome, and the mindset shifts required to take control of his own future.

The Power of Simplicity in Innovation:

Frank explains why the best products solve everyday problems in the simplest way possible. He walks us through the creation of the StoolPak and how customer feedback played a crucial role in its development.

Leading with Collaboration, Not Just Management:

Leadership isn’t about telling people what to do—it’s about building trust and working alongside your team. Frank discusses his approach to leadership and how he’s fostered success through collaboration.

Overcoming Fear and Taking the First Step:

Many aspiring entrepreneurs hesitate due to fear of failure. Frank shares his personal experience of taking risks, embracing uncertainty, and why the hardest part is simply getting started.

Lessons Learned in Product Development:

From idea to market, Frank reveals the biggest challenges of launching a physical product, including manufacturing, distribution, and dealing with setbacks along the way.

Balancing Family and Business:

Success isn’t just about career achievements—it’s about maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Frank opens up about how he manages family responsibilities while running multiple ventures.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

For those looking to start their own business, Frank shares his top advice on mindset, problem-solving, and how to turn ideas into reality.

The Future of Engineering and Innovation:

Frank gives his take on the future of automation, e-commerce, and how emerging technologies will shape entrepreneurship in the years ahead.

• Take the leap—fear is often the biggest roadblock to success.
• Simplicity is key when developing innovative products.
• Leadership is about trust and collaboration, not just management.
• Failure is a learning tool—embrace it and keep moving forward.
• Balance is crucial—success in business should not come at the expense of family and personal life.

Links And Resources:

• Connect with Frank DeLuca on LinkedIn
• ddsports.us
• thedrinkcaddy.com

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In this episode of Breakthrough Innovation, we’re honored to welcome Dr. John Serri, physicist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of EyeQue—a company revolutionizing eye care with smartphone-based vision testing. Dr. Serri shares his incredible journey, from overcoming dyslexia and working in aerospace technology to disrupting the ophthalmic telemedicine industry. With 25 patents and adoption in over 150 countries, EyeQue is making eye tests more affordable and accessible for millions worldwide.

• Bridging Physics and Healthcare - Dr. Serri explains how his background in satellite technology and problem-solving led him to create a consumer-friendly vision testing solution, proving that innovation thrives across industries.
• Revolutionizing Eye Care with Telemedicine - Learn how EyeQue’s smartphone-powered technology is transforming vision testing, making it easier for people to monitor their eye health from home.
• Overcoming Industry Resistance and Adoption Challenges - Dr. Serri shares insights on navigating regulations, market skepticism, and industry barriers when introducing disruptive healthcare technology.
• Lessons in Failure and Innovation - From early setbacks to major breakthroughs, Dr. Serri reveals how persistence, optimism, and questioning the status quo led to EyeQue’s success.
• The Future of Telemedicine and Eye Care - Explore Dr. Serri’s predictions on how AI, smartphone diagnostics, and remote healthcare will continue to reshape global eye care.

• Innovation thrives at the intersection of industries.
• Telemedicine is breaking barriers in healthcare accessibility.
• Early failures are stepping stones to success.
• Disrupting an industry requires resilience, adaptability, and a bold vision.

Links And Resources:

• Connect with Dr. John Serri on LinkedIn

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In this episode of Breakthrough Innovation, we sit down with Mike Wahl, VP of Technology and Head of AI at Tweddle Group. Mike shares his fascinating journey from engineer to innovative leader in industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and automotive. With a strong focus on AI, Mike reveals how he integrates cutting-edge technology into his daily life, leading to a remarkable 1500-day streak of boosting productivity, health, and business with AI.

Mike dives into how a relentless drive for continuous learning and breaking the status quo shaped his career. He offers invaluable insights into the power of experimentation, why AI can enhance every aspect of your life, and how leaders can leverage technology to drive innovation. If you're looking to build a culture of innovation in your business, or just curious about the intersection of AI and leadership, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips.

Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:

• The Power of Continuous Learning and Curiosity
• Mike talks about his lifelong passion for learning and how it’s key to his approach to leadership and AI integration.
• AI for Personal and Professional Productivity
• Learn how Mike’s 1500-day streak of using AI has revolutionized his routines and decision-making processes, from health goals to work efficiency.
• Experimentation is the Key to Innovation
• Mike discusses the importance of experimenting, even if it means failing forward. The mindset of trial and error leads to real breakthroughs.
• Focusing on the 20% that Drives Value
• He emphasizes the significance of focusing on high-impact tasks and using AI to maximize productivity on the most important goals.
• Practical AI Integration for Leaders
• Mike shares advice for senior executives on how to approach AI, avoid overcomplicating projects, and make impactful changes with manageable steps.

Key Takeaways:

• Embrace continuous learning and foster curiosity to stay ahead of innovation.
• Use AI to drive productivity and make smarter, more efficient decisions.
• Focus on the 20% of tasks that bring the most value and let AI support them.
• Cultivate an experimental mindset—failure is just a stepping stone toward success.

Links And Resources:

• Connect with Mike Wahl on LinkedIn
• Visit Tweddle Group's website at Tweddle Group
• Blog
• Portfolio

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In this episode of Breakthrough Innovation, we talk with Robert Brown, founder and CEO of The Customer Shop and CTO of Mindshare Collaborative, about his fascinating journey from biomedical engineering to leading digital transformations. Robert, a neurodivergent leader with dyslexia and ADHD, combines his scientific background with an artistic approach to solving complex problems. He shares how this unique perspective allows him to uncover patterns others often miss and how he applies this to business success.

Robert’s story demonstrates the power of human-centered design and why understanding the real user experience is critical to creating systems that work. He explains how focusing on the end user, rather than rigid processes, leads to better customer outcomes and more successful digital transformations. In addition, Robert offers insights on fostering a culture of innovation by embracing neurodivergent talent and understanding diverse cognitive experiences.

Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:

Patterns in Nature and Business Solutions

Robert explains how recognizing natural patterns can lead to innovative business strategies and more effective problem-solving. This approach applies not only to customer journeys but also to data management and product design.

The Human Factor in System Design

Discover why it’s essential to look beyond KPIs and focus on how humans interact with systems, using examples from Robert’s work with Apple, Whirlpool, and AIG. He discusses how unexpected user behaviors can break systems and how to account for them.

Neurodivergent Leadership and Innovation

Robert shares how living with dyslexia and ADHD influences his leadership style and ability to think outside the box. He highlights how neurodivergent individuals bring valuable perspectives to innovation and problem-solving.

Inclusive Leadership and Support for Neurodivergent Talent

Hear Robert’s thoughts on how organizations can better support neurodiverse employees and create environments that foster creativity and inclusion. He stresses the importance of compassion and understanding for different cognitive experiences.

Building Trust Through Customer-Centered Design

Learn how involving frontline workers and getting genuine feedback can prevent costly failures in digital transformations. Robert talks about the importance of human-centered processes and building buy-in from all levels of an organization.

Key Takeaways:

• Look for patterns in nature to inspire innovative business solutions.
• Understand the human experience, not just the process, to create systems that work.
• Neurodivergent perspectives can drive groundbreaking innovation.
• Create inclusive workplaces to harness the full potential of neurodivergent talent.
• Always involve frontline workers in system design to ensure it meets their real needs.

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Robert Brown on LinkedIn
• Visit The Customer Shop at thecustomershop.com

Thanks for tuning in to Breakthrough Innovation! Want to subscribe to the podcast? Have feedback to share? Connect with us on Spotify or iTunes and leave us a review—we’d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Breakthrough Innovation, we sit down with Sathya Sethuraman, Field CTO at Camunda and a trusted advisor to the financial services and insurance sectors. Sathya brings over 30 years of expertise in digital transformation, intelligent automation, and driving measurable business outcomes.

From his entrepreneurial roots in India to leading large-scale, multi-geo initiatives, Sathya shares how his frugal innovation mindset, collaborative leadership, and radical candor have shaped his success. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help organizations align technology and business teams, foster innovation, and transform customer experiences.

The Power of Iterative Transformation

Sathya explains why most transformation projects fail and highlights the importance of delivering continuous, incremental value rather than focusing solely on long-term goals.

Fostering Openness and Vulnerability

Learn how accepting vulnerabilities on both the technology and business sides creates a collaborative culture that drives success.

Emerging Trends in Intelligent Automation

Sathya discusses the integration of user interfaces, AI, data, and orchestration layers to unlock the full potential of intelligent automation in processes like underwriting and customer onboarding.

Data as the Foundation of Success

Discover why building a strong data layer and establishing baselines are crucial first steps in achieving meaningful transformation outcomes.

Aligning Career and Organizational Goals

Sathya shares his philosophy on aligning personal vision with company objectives and leveraging discomfort as a catalyst for growth.

• Treat transformation as a journey, delivering incremental value at every step.
• Foster collaboration through openness and radical candor between IT and business teams.
• Build a robust data foundation to support intelligent automation and innovation.
• Align your career aspirations with organizational goals for long-term impact.

• Connect with Sathya Sethuraman on LinkedIn
• Email Sathya at sathya.sethuraman@camunda.com

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In this episode of Breakthrough Innovation, we sit down with Sanjit Singh, CTO of Julia Technologies and an accomplished machine learning engineer, to uncover his extraordinary journey of resilience, creativity, and groundbreaking innovation. From a childhood passion for gaming to pioneering advancements in augmented reality and robotics for trauma care, Sanjit’s story is a testament to the power of curiosity and perseverance.

As a neurodiverse individual overcoming health challenges, Sanjit has channeled his unique perspective into creating impactful solutions for underserved communities, including military and rural healthcare systems.

The Journey from Curiosity to Innovation

Sanjit shares how his childhood fascination with gaming and storytelling fueled his drive to create solutions that merge technology with human needs.

Navigating Challenges as a Neurodiverse Innovator

Learn how Sanjit turned personal obstacles into opportunities, using his perspective to approach problem-solving with empathy and ingenuity.

Revolutionizing Healthcare with AR and Robotics

Discover the story behind Julia Technologies, Sanjit’s co-founded venture that leverages augmented reality and robotics to address critical gaps in trauma care.

The Power of Simplified Tech

Sanjit emphasizes the importance of designing user-friendly technology that prioritizes the needs of its audience, from first responders to surgeons.

Building Resilience and Adaptability

Hear Sanjit’s strategies for staying ahead in a rapidly changing industry and overcoming resistance to innovative ideas.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators

Sanjit offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts, emphasizing curiosity, mentorship, and a willingness to embrace failure as a learning tool.

• Innovation thrives at the intersection of technology and humanity.
• Personal challenges can become catalysts for groundbreaking solutions.
• Simplifying complex technology is essential for widespread adoption.
• Resilience and adaptability are critical for navigating the tech landscape.

• Learn more about Julia Technologies: Juliatech
• Connect with Sanjit Singh on LinkedIn: linkedIn
• Sanjit’s personal website: https://scarletknight11.github.io/

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