This One Shift Rewires Your Future

ETW Writer
2 days ago
3 min read

Mini Synopsis:

In this insightful episode of Show Your Value, Lee Benson sits down with Dr. Frederik Pferdt, Google's first Chief Innovation Evangelist and author of What’s Next Is Now. Together, they explore the future of innovation, how we can actively create it rather than waiting for it, and the mindset shifts that are required for building a culture of value creation.

Introduction:

In this fast-moving world, the future feels like something we must wait for. But what if we could actively create it instead? Frederik Pferdt, a pioneer in innovation, shares how leaders, businesses, and individuals can shape what’s next instead of simply reacting to it. Frederik unpacks strategies for fostering innovation in teams, recognizing opportunities in uncertainty, and building a culture where value creation is at the heart of progress.

About Frederik Pferdt:

Frederik Pferdt is an innovation expert, entrepreneur, and author of What’s Next Is Now. As Google's first Chief Innovation Evangelist, Frederik has spent years helping teams and organizations harness their creative potential to drive meaningful change. He brings a wealth of experience in fostering innovation cultures and empowering individuals to not only adapt to change but to lead it.

Key Insights from Frederik Pferdt:

Innovation is a Mindset, Not Just a Process

"Innovation starts with a mindset of curiosity, where we ask, 'What if?' and 'Why not?'"

Innovation isn’t reserved for tech giants or startups. It’s about adopting a mindset that embraces change, asks big questions, and challenges the status quo. Frederik discusses how innovation can be cultivated in everyday settings.

Creating a Culture of Innovation

"A culture of innovation is not about having an idea, it’s about creating an environment where every idea matters."

Building a thriving culture of innovation requires trust, openness, and collaboration. Frederik highlights the importance of empowering team members to take risks and share their ideas, knowing they will be heard.

Value Creation Through Innovation

"Innovation should always be linked to creating value, both for individuals and organizations."

Innovation isn’t just about new ideas for the sake of change. It’s about aligning creative efforts with clear outcomes that drive value. Frederik shares how organizations can measure the impact of their innovations by focusing on tangible value creation.

Turning Uncertainty into Opportunity

"The future is uncertain, but that’s where the opportunity lies."

In times of uncertainty, the best opportunities often emerge. Frederik explains how individuals and businesses can embrace uncertainty as a breeding ground for new ideas and innovative solutions.

The Power of Asking the Right Questions

"The quality of our questions determines the quality of our solutions."

Frederik emphasizes that asking the right questions is a key driver of innovation. By questioning existing processes, assumptions, and strategies, we unlock new pathways to creating value.

Innovation Isn’t Just for the Tech Industry

"Innovation is everywhere. It doesn’t only belong to Silicon Valley."

Frederik discusses how all industries can innovate, from education to healthcare, and how every organization can integrate innovation into their culture, no matter its size or field.

How to Lead Through Change

"To lead through change, leaders must be open to learning, willing to fail, and ready to evolve."

Frederik talks about the mindset shifts needed for leaders to effectively navigate and drive change. The key is continuous learning and embracing failure as a natural part of growth.

Innovation and Sustainability

"Sustainability is not a buzzword, it’s the future of innovation."

Innovation can and should be aligned with sustainability. Frederik shares how businesses can innovate not only for profit but also for social and environmental impact.

Notable Quotables:

“Innovation starts with a mindset of curiosity, where we ask, 'What if?' and 'Why not?'” – Frederik Pferdt

“A culture of innovation is not about having an idea—it’s about creating an environment where every idea matters.” – Frederik Pferdt

“Innovation should always be linked to creating value, both for individuals and organizations.” – Frederik Pferdt

“The future is uncertain, but that’s where the opportunity lies.” – Frederik Pferdt

“The quality of our questions determines the quality of our solutions.” – Frederik Pferdt

“Innovation is everywhere. It doesn’t only belong to Silicon Valley.” – Frederik Pferdt