Creativity matters!

About Creativity matters!

Behind every innovation, every creative idea, there's a story. A story of people, encounters, choices, and sometimes a bit of luck. These are the stories I've always been curious about. And above all, I'm curious about the people behind them. In Creativity Matters, I talk to business leaders, founders, artists, and thinkers about their ideas, their work, and their personal journeys. I want to understand what inspired them, the choices they made, the challenges they faced, and the sometimes unexpected paths their careers have taken. I'm Federica De Molli, Associate Professor at BI Norwegian Business School in Oslo. Through these conversations, we explore different ways of thinking, learn from others' experiences, and perhaps find inspiration to see things differently or try something new. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Publisher

Handelshøyskolen BI

Category

business · business · education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

28 Aug 2022

Latest episode

2 Nov 2026

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Nov 2026

   Leading Through Complexity: Lessons from NATO

   What does it take to lead people and encourage new ideas in an organization as complex as NATO? In this episode of Creativity Matters, I talk with Harri Paananen, Deputy Chief at the NATO Communications and Information Agency, about leadership, innovation, and the importance of people in making complex organizations work. Harri shares his unexpected career journey, from business school and academic research to public sector leadership and eventually NATO. We discuss what it means to lead without having all the answers, why curiosity and collaboration matter more than ever, and how leaders can create space for creativity even in highly regulated environments. We also explore the importance of trust, shared purpose, and personal motivation, and why meaningful progress often comes through small steps rather than big changes. Finally, Harri reflects on the lessons he's learned throughout his career and shares advice for the next generation, including why independent thinking matters in an age of artificial intelligence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

2. 

   2 Nov 2026

   Inside the Boardroom: What Makes Great Leaders?

   What does it take to lead people, build successful organizations, and navigate constant change? In this episode of Creativity Matters, I talk with Marianne Heiß, Supervisory Board Member at Volkswagen AG, Audi AG, and Porsche SE, about leadership, organizational culture, and the experiences that have shaped her career. Drawing on her extensive experience in executive leadership and corporate governance, Marianne shares her perspectives on what makes organizations successful and how leaders can help people adapt to a rapidly changing world. We discuss why organizational culture matters as much as strategy, how reducing bureaucracy and simplifying routines can make organizations more agile, and why trust, empathy, and collaboration are essential to effective leadership. We also explore diversity in corporate boardrooms, the role of women in leadership, and Marianne's personal reflections on ambition, success, authenticity, and finding purpose in what we do. Throughout the conversation, Marianne shares practical insights from her professional journey and advice for young professionals finding their own path. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

3. 

   8 Jun 2026

   Melancholy, Hope, and the Art of Living: A Conversation with Joke Hermsen

   What does it mean to live well in a world obsessed with speed, productivity, and constant activity? In this inspiring episode, I speak with philosopher and writer Joke Hermsen about creativity, hope, time, identity, and the importance of making space for reflection in our lives. Drawing on philosophy, literature, art, and lived experience, Hermsen offers a powerful alternative to the culture of busyness, inviting us to rediscover the value of wonder, imagination, and meaningful pauses. Together, we explore how new ideas emerge when we slow down, the difference between Χρόνος (clock time) and Καιρός (lived time), the role of art in expanding our understanding of ourselves and the world, and why the human capacity for new beginnings may be one of our greatest sources of creativity, freedom, and hope. This conversation is an invitation to embrace uncertainty, cultivate hope, and create space for the moments that truly transform us. A rich and uplifting episode for anyone interested in creativity, philosophy, personal growth, and the art of living. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

4. 

   23 Feb 2026

   When Beauty Becomes a Public Good: A Conversation with Christian Ringnes

   In this episode, I speak with businessman and art collector Christian Ringnes about what happens when a deeply personal passion becomes part of a shared urban environment. We reflect on the role of private initiative in shaping public space, and on how individual vision can contribute to collective identity. Moving beyond questions of art or development alone, this conversation explores the social value of beauty - and the responsibility that comes with transforming something personal into something that belongs to everyone. From generosity and risk to atmosphere and belonging, we discuss how privately initiated cultural projects can add meaning, character, and a new layer of experience to the cities we inhabit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

5. 

   8 Apr 2024

   Navigating the Depths: Adapting to Technological Shifts in Ocean Solutions

   In this episode, we delve into Deep Ocean's internal culture and processes for innovation, exploring how they generate and select ideas, as well as their approach to overcoming challenges. Andries shares insights into the importance of cross-functional collaboration and engagement with external stakeholders in driving innovation forward. We also explore Deep Ocean's commitment to sustainability, uncovering specific initiatives at the intersection of innovation and environmental responsibility. Lastly, Andries discusses the rapidly evolving technology landscape in the ocean solutions sector and how Deep Ocean is positioning itself to meet future challenges and seize opportunities for innovation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

6. 

   22 Jan 2024

   Using the Arts for Shaping Sustainable Business Practices

   In this episode, Abby Litchfield, Community Manager at Network for Business Sustainability (NBS) (https://www.linkedin.com/feed/#), takes us on a journey through NBS's dedicated efforts in shaping business sustainability over the last 15 years. Gain insights into innovative projects where NBS seamlessly integrates arts and music, in particular, to not only raise awareness but also drive meaningful action in the realm of sustainability. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

7. 

   8 Nov 2023

   Museums Reimagined: Art, Technology, and Social Impact

   In this episode, we delve into the dynamic world of museums, their evolving roles, and the transformative impact of emerging technologies. Our guest today is Patricia Buffa, Director of Digital Strategy at the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. In this captivating conversation, Patricia unveils how museums have transcended their traditional role of preserving art. We explore how they are now at the forefront of education, community engagement, and social justice. Moreover, our guest shares her insights on the influence of emerging technologies on the museum industry: from augmented reality to AI, we explore how these innovations are reshaping the way we interact with art and culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

8. 

   24 Oct 2023

   Driving the Future: An Exclusive Look at Polestar's Vision for Sustainable Mobility

   In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Polestar with Kristin Fjeld, Head of Communications at this groundbreaking electric vehicle manufacturer. Polestar, known for its seamless fusion of Swedish design elegance and cutting-edge technology, is setting the standard for sustainable, high-performance electric vehicles. In this interview, Kristin takes us on a journey through Polestar's commitment to reshaping the future of mobility, focusing on minimalist and elegant designs that have captured the automotive world's attention. Discover how Polestar aims to propel us toward a more efficient, and environmentally friendly future, paving the way for a revolution in how we approach transportation and sustainability. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

9. 

   20 Sept 2023

   Exploring the Innovation Hub of Espoo, the second largest city of Finland: A Conversation with Harri Paananen

   In this episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Harri Paananen, the Director in charge of leading the Economic Development and Employment Unit of second largest city of Finland, Espoo. If you're curious about how one of the most influential innovation ecosystems in the Scandinavian countries operates, then this interview is a must-listen. Harri is at the forefront of Espoo's dynamic economic landscape, and in this conversation, we dive deep into the intricacies of Finland's innovation ecosystem, the evolution of smart cities, and the thriving innovation-based businesses that call this region home. Innovation-based businesses are the backbone of any thriving economy, and Finland has perfected the art of nurturing such enterprises. Harri sheds light on the support systems and partnerships that have propelled innovation-driven businesses in Finland to global recognition. From the vibrant startup scene to established tech giants, you'll gain valuable insights into the factors that have contributed to their success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

10. 

    28 Aug 2022

    Nordic — Office of Architecture Building Engineer Luca Bargagli on constraints and creativity

    Luca Bargagli shares his journey: from his first work experiences in Paris at RFR (an international multi-award winning structural engineering firm), to the projects carried out at Snøhetta (the pioneering international architecture, landscape architecture, interior design and brand design company), up to the current work at NORDIC - Office of Architecture. In this conversation, Luca illustrates how creativity and innovation are fundamental in construction engineering. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

11. 

    28 Aug 2022

    ABB Global Service Product Manager, Marine & Ports Division, Alice Sacchetti on creativity in naval engineering

    Today's guest will surprise us in illustrating how creativity is central even in a sector that we probably would not have associated with it, that of naval engineering. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

12. 

    28 Aug 2022

    IMAX Corporation Chief Sales Officer Giovanni Dolci on innovation in the entertainment technology business

    Giovanni Dolci, Head of Global Sales at IMAX Corporation, reveals his recipe for innovating in one of the most important entertainment technology businesses: IMAX Corporation, a company specializing in motion-picture technologies and large-format motion-picture presentations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

13. 

    28 Aug 2022

    PepsiCo Chief Design Officer Mauro Porcini on innovation and design

    Mauro Porcini, SVP & Chief Design Officer at PepsiCo - the largest food & beverage company in North America, with brands available in over 200 countries and over 300.000 employs - tells us how innovation is all about people and the importance of design in imagining and developing meaningful solutions for people's present and future needs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

14. 

    28 Aug 2022

    Meet Andrea Cottini, Member of the Executive Board and Operations Director of one of the major Italian fashion companies

    Andrea Cottini, Member of the Executive Board and Operations Director of one of the major Italian fashion companies active in the global market, shares his long international work experience, developed for over 20 years, in the fashion and luxury industry and offers his advice on how to create a work environment that can empower imagination and thus facilitate the emergence of new ideas . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

15. 

    28 Aug 2022

    AC Milan Digital, Media and The Studios Director Lamberto Siega on the centrality of teamwork and collaboration

    Lamberto Siega tells us about his journey: from working as consultant for a big four to becoming Marketing and Digital Director for his favorite football team: AC Milan. The conversation clearly shows the importance of teamwork not only on the football field but also in the management of the club. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.