Innovate Where You Are

About Innovate Where You Are

Welcome to Innovate Where You Are—a podcast about real people creating meaningful change, often without permission, certainty, or a clear roadmap. I’m Kristy Venne, and each episode, I sit down with innovators from all walks of life and industries—leaders, educators, students, and entrepreneurs who are experimenting, learning, and building in real time. We talk about the real journey behind innovation—the doubts, the detours, the failures, and the ideas that made it worth continuing. You’ll hear what our guests are most proud of, what they’re working on next, and what they’ve learned along the way.

Publisher

Kristy Venne

Category

business · education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

7 Apr 2026

Latest episode

5 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   5 Oct 2026

   What Kids Need to Thrive with Steven Shapiro

   Kristy Venne talks with educator, experiential learning leader, and Our Family Culture co-founder Steven Shapiro about what young people need to thrive in school, at home, and beyond. Drawing on more than three decades in education, Steven shares how meaningful experiences help young people develop confidence, independence, and real-world skills. The conversation explores the hidden costs of over-scheduling, the importance of unstructured play, and how families can become more intentional about the culture they create. In this episode: Steven’s journey from uninspired student to experiential learning leader Why young people deserve meaningful work, respect, and a voice Steven’s concerns about over-scheduling, competitive pressure, and youth mental health What children learn through unstructured play, negotiation, and making their own decisions The connection between childhood experiences and the skills employers seek How two students continued a community action project and changed a local curfew law Why culture starts with clarity about what matters The origins of Our Family Culture and its approach to parenting with purpose Turning values such as resilience and integrity into language children can use Building family habits through small, repeated conversations and actions Inviting older children to help shape family culture and hold adults accountable Using a weekly family huddle to acknowledge one another, plan ahead, and reconnect Why Steven believes young people need more agency, autonomy, and ownership Resources mentioned: Our Family Culture (https://ourfamilyculture.org/): A system for helping families identify shared priorities and practice them through everyday conversations and activities. Experience Matters with Steve Shapiro (https://www.steventshapiro.com/experiencematterspodcast): Steven’s podcast exploring the experiences that shape learning and lives. Harold and Maude (https://www.paramountpictures.com/movies/harold-and-maude): The film Steven names as an influence on how he thinks about youth and living. Connect on LinkedIn: Steven Shapiro (https://www.linkedin.com/in/steventshapiro/) Kristy Venne (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristyvenne/?isSelfProfile=true) Show Sponsors Early Lead (https://www.classroom-to-career.com/): Workshops and individual career coaching for ages 16–24. Support Innovate Where You Are (https://buymeacoffee.com/KristyVenne): Help support future podcast conversations through Buy Me a Coffee.

2. 

   15 Sept 2026

   The Hidden Cost Of Convenience with Terry Gromes

   Kristy Venne talks with Terry Gromes Jr., founder and CEO of the Canary Project, about how technology shapes our habits, attention, relationships, and daily lives.Terry shares his journey from building industrial technology to helping families, schools, and communities develop healthier relationships with digital devices. This thoughtful conversation explores why technology itself is not the enemy—and why learning to use it with intention, discipline, and wisdom may be one of the most important skills of the digital age. In this episode Terry’s transition from industrial robotics to technology-awareness work The personal experience that showed Terry how strongly social media habits can influence behavior Why the Canary Project is focused on balance rather than eliminating technology How smartphones have become tools we carry into every part of life The comparison between smartphones and kitchen knives—and why powerful tools require boundaries What Cleveland’s first traffic light can teach us about adapting to disruptive technology Why every invention creates a “second invention” through rules, ethics, and social norms The difference between learning how to operate technology and learning how to relate to it How phones affect memory, boredom, curiosity, and self-control Why attention is a limited currency that cannot be recovered once spent Why awareness, patience, discipline, and self-control can be more effective than restriction alone How families and communities can build healthier technology habits together Why adults model technology behavior for children, whether they intend to or not The benefits of putting your phone away before bed and after waking up How to ask, “What am I here to do?” before unlocking your phone The relationship between artificial intelligence, creativity, and lived human experience Why innovation can include small human breakthroughs—not just new technology Resources mentioned The Canary Project (https://www.thecanaryproject.org/) Modern Wisdom podcast (https://chriswillx.com/podcast/) Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday (https://dailystoic.com/) Jordan Peterson (https://www.jordanbpeterson.com/) Connect with Terry Gromes, Jr. - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-gromes-jr-04803443/) Connect with Kristy Venne - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristyvenne/) Today’s episode sponsor is Early Lead Early Lead helps young people ages 16-24 build practical career skills, strengthen their professional presence and move toward their next opportunity with greater clarity and confidence. Learn more at www.classroom-to-career.com/early-lead (http://www.classroom-to-career.com/early-lead)

3. 

   2 Sept 2026

   Turning Ideas into Impact with Dr. Heidi Coia

   Kristy Venne talks with Dr. Heidi Coia about the messy middle between research and commercialization - the years of uncertainty, funding pressure, policy shifts, leadership challenges, and decision making that turn a promising idea into something usable. They also dig into how scientists can grow into leaders, when to pivot or quit, and why humility and ownership matter in startups. In this episode: Dr. Heidi Coia shares how her career has moved across government-funded research, biotech startups, GMP manufacturing, academic partnerships, commercialization, and consulting The conversation centers on the gap between scientific discovery and real-world impact, and why bench science alone is rarely enough to reach customers or patients Heidi explains why she intentionally built a broad skill set across science, business, leadership, software, and team management to stay ready for changing conditions They discuss the "trench" between idea and product, including the startup "valley of death," failed experiments, funding barriers, and policy delays Heidi describes how environmental changes like COVID, market shifts, and regulations can completely reshape whether an innovation succeeds The episode explores leadership in diverse teams, especially the importance of understanding that not everyone is motivated by the same goals or works from the same life circumstances Heidi shares her rule of not asking others to do anything she would not do herself, especially in high-stakes environments like GMP manufacturing and clinical research They talk about how ego can help people start ambitious projects, but can also become a barrier when it turns into stubbornness or sunk cost thinking Heidi emphasizes the ability to pivot, pause, or quit when the evidence says a path is not working, rather than treating quitting as failure A personal story about a startup shutdown, family stress, and a stolen car becomes a turning point that helped her separate her identity from her work and eventually build her consulting business The discussion closes with advice for technically brilliant people who want to move into leadership: do the uncomfortable things, build breadth, and develop yourself beyond one narrow specialty Heidi also reflects on curiosity, ownership, and decision making under uncertainty, including how frameworks like poker thinking and risk management shape how she approaches work now Resources How I Built This — https://www.npr.org/series/490248027/how-i-built-this (https://www.npr.org/series/490248027/how-i-built-this) Annie Duke — Thinking in Bets https://www.annieduke.com/books/thinking-in-bets/ (https://www.annieduke.com/books/thinking-in-bets/) Annie Duke — Quit https://www.annieduke.com/books/quit/ (https://www.annieduke.com/books/quit/) Connect with Dr. Heidi Coia - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidicoia/) Connect with Kristy Venne - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristyvenne/) If you’d like to support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne (http://buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne) Nominate a show guest here: https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16 (https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16)

4. 

   18 Aug 2026

   Turning Difference into Purpose with Aaron Westbrook

   Aaron Westbrook shares how growing up with a limb difference shaped his confidence, problem solving, and commitment to creating better adaptive solutions. In this conversation, I trace his path from a curious student to the founder and CEO of Form5, with a focus on community, co-design, and leadership that puts lived experience at the center.We discuss how Form Five moved from one-off solutions to workshop-based innovation, why listening to people with limb differences changes everything, and how Aaron is thinking bigger about national impact, product scaling, and advocacy. Key topics Aaron’s early experience growing up in a two-handed world and how it made him a natural problem solver How his parents helped him build confidence by role-playing responses and teaching self-advocacy Why Aaron believes people with limb differences know best what solutions they need The origin of Form5’s approach: starting with listening, not assumptions How community connection changed his perspective as a teenager and became the anchor for his mission The Cofab workshop model, where people with limb differences co-design solutions alongside students, engineers, and mentors How Form5 grew from a high school senior project into a nonprofit that is preparing for its 10th anniversary Why Aaron sees the organization as bigger than prosthetics and now broader than limb difference alone The bike arm adapter story, including Jody’s goal of riding Pelotonia and how that experience helped shape Form Five’s growth strategy Aaron’s leadership philosophy: learn like a junior, lead like a senior His 2018 advocacy work on regulatory reform in Ohio to include 3D printing in prosthetic assistive technology language How Form5 uses community events, committees, and mentorship to build an ecosystem around disability innovation Resources Cofab (https://www.form5.org/co-fab-workshop-2/) Alive with Five Blog (https://www.form5.org/blog/) Miles That Matter (https://www.form5.org/miles-that-matter/) — Form5’s long-distance cycling fundraiser, if there’s a campaign or recap page Forbes 30 Under 30 (https://business.westerville.org/westerville-ceo-earns-forbes-30-under-30-distinction-continues-to-grow-form5-non-profit/) Connect with Aaron Westbrook - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/awestbrook99/) Connect with Kristy Venne - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristyvenne/) If you’d like to support the podcast, you can do that at buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne (http://buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne) Know someone who would be a perfect fit for this show? Nominate them to be a guest here: https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16 (https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16)

5. 

   5 Aug 2026

   Young Leadership in Action with Rhea Ojah

   Discover how a young innovator like Rhea Ojah harnesses her creativity and resilience to make a meaningful impact. From founding a nonprofit to navigating personal loss, she shares insights on embracing failure, exploring diverse interests, and shaping a future rooted in service. Key topics How Rhea views innovation as the intersection of creativity and community service The founding of the NeuroNext Foundation and its role in community engagement The importance of adaptability and exploring multiple interests in high school How experiencing loss fostered emotional maturity and artistic expression Lessons learned from overcoming setbacks, such as academic challenges and personal loss The empowering role of failure and resilience in personal growth The influence of community service on understanding diverse human experiences Rhea’s vision for a future in biomedical engineering to improve global healthcare access The need to challenge societal stereotypes and promote curiosity and empathy Practical advice for young people to take initiative and make a difference regardless of age Resources https://neuronextfoundation.org/about/ (https://neuronextfoundation.org/about/) Rhea’s award winning artwork of her grandmother “Fear of Goodbye” (https://www.instagram.com/p/DGvtLqSx1_q/?igsh=MW9vY3RicTNmNHRqNA%3D%3D) Connect with Rhea Ojah - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhea-ojah-2aa345421/) Connect with Kristy Venne - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristyvenne/) If you’d like to support the podcast, you can do that at buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne (http://buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne) Know someone who would be a perfect fit for this show? Nominate them to be a guest here: https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16 (https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16)

6. 

   10 Jul 2026

   Workplace Well-being with Dr. Christine Fonner

   Explore the critical aspects of healthy leadership, organizational culture, and fostering authenticity in workplaces. Dr. Christine Fonner shares insights from her extensive research on toxic leadership, radical care, and the importance of emotional intelligence, emphasizing how these elements can build more resilient, safe, and innovative environments. Main Topics Covered: The prevalence and impact of toxic leadership, especially on women The concept of radical care and its role in effective leadership How decision-making rooted in love versus fear affects organizational health Cultivating psychological safety and trust in teams Practical strategies for giving and receiving constructive feedback The influence of workplace culture on innovation and performance Leadership practices to combat toxicity and promote accountability The importance of integrating emotional and holistic approaches to leadership Early warning signs of eroding team culture One habit organizational leaders should immediately stop In this episode: Dr. Fonner discusses her research findings that women in leadership face 65% more toxic experiences and how organizations can address this. The idea of radical care: caring authentically while holding people accountable for high performance. How fear-driven decisions undermine workplace safety and innovation. Costco’s example of how employee feedback led to tangible cost savings through small innovations. Tools and frameworks for fostering honest, respectful feedback, including the “Think” model. The challenges of holding leaders accountable without falling into retaliatory or dismissive behaviors. Practical approaches leaders can adopt to nurture their team’s growth while managing inevitable conflicts. The significance of leadership style diversity and cultural shifts towards more compassionate, holistic leadership models. Resources & Links: Demon Haunted World (https://www.amazon.com/The-Demon-Haunted-World-Cary-Elwes-audiobook/dp/B06XTZ6QMN/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ms2M3LmQ0eJvE1u7gc9Ixo95HZgBQV7eKc2oKmnD5Uhsf9mn0YXeFcxq9oHO1fj9jkbrZjQQlmYOcmxEGKPrGn0oak6IBqcTOwLJ15JcWCXho-ScaRbxJOxEzIuyh2j3_ABjTmUPBMPfogTHctqmaEtmJteee0p6cdYOMB1zbN3G0hhb0D9eY4F6oVpuPoM2BPpKSHqhAHSVDWzoU2wxkhhW-ROSjCoYTlE9SPCZoTw.D8L6HouuYF0ym5Y6X5rMUgKe7xuUg_oRp3u4QtoAWL8&dib_tag=se&keywords=demon+haunted+world&qid=1783437166&sr=8-1) by Carl Sagan Last Child in the Woods (https://www.amazon.com/Last-Child-Woods-Children-Nature-Deficit/dp/1565125223/ref=sr_1_2?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.n72xUy-QkKXOORY9D1uN_vPpCv__DN-nLgUo5Eg9LNFJQBEMYDQKUuonvJ2xg_Fzl66x04ApaQ_P3xHSEyvDCrd0vxZpQtvSspb_y0bE-Gp0VDDSKuXa9Y3cejuF60mKPlvsUWXBoa-_4V8LMIIpM8AoI-JcShjl1M_JMqELrNMTQ1BkgDRQ_tPJWFuGhJQSeQYVEzTM_ulM0KNizcn5uqy3OiMIOUBD_E5_MUXqzWI.q0uW0LegW66NpA7lmL1iZsVvo76f0v9n0L7xAJiyGP8&dib_tag=se&keywords=last+child+in+the+woods&qid=1783437138&sr=8-2) by Richard Louv The Fellowship: Dr. Christine Fonner (https://www.evolvingleaderfellowship.com/christinefonner) Connect with featured guest, Dr. Christine Fonner, on LinkedIn (https://linkedin.com/in/christine-fonner) Connect with host, Kristy Venne, on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristyvenne/)

7. 

   24 Jun 2026

   Unlocking the Power of Effective Communication with Dr. Jenny Rankin

   In this episode of Innovate Where You Are, Dr. Jenny Rankin shares her insights on communication strategies, the importance of listening, data storytelling, and embracing vulnerability to foster trust and innovation. Whether you're an educator, leader, or entrepreneur, the lessons here are invaluable for making a meaningful impact. KEY TOPICS The non-linear journey of personal and professional growth, emphasizing following passions and random experiences. The critical role of communication in leadership, including understanding psychology to influence others positively. Strategies to improve listening skills, such as asking questions, listening to understand, and using motivational interviewing techniques. The significance of data storytelling: simplifying, contextualizing, and embedding empathy when presenting data. The impact of ego and implicit bias in workplace innovation and ways to mitigate these barriers through self-awareness and diverse engagement. Practical advice on preparing for public speaking, including having a clear bio and managing nerves with organization. The importance of flexibility, feedback, and perseverance, especially when facing setbacks or rejection. How authenticity, humility, and making concessions enhance credibility and trust in communication. Tips for communicating across diverse audiences: customizing messages and using hierarchy-appropriate language. The power of intentional social media presence and visual tools like Canva to amplify your message. RESOURCES: Project Debater by IBM (https://www.research.ibm.com/artificial-intelligence/project-debater/) Implicit Association Test (IAT) by Harvard (https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/takeatest.html) Canva (https://www.canva.com/) Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday (https://www.amazon.com/Ego-Enemy-Ryan-Holiday/dp/1524744458) Mistakes Were Made, But Not by Me by Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson (https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Mistakes+Were+Made%2C+But+Not+by+Me+by+Carol+Tavris+and+Elliot+Aronson) Connect with Dr. Jenny Rankin - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennygrantrankin/) If you’d like to support the podcast, you can do that at buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne (http://buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne) Know someone who would be a perfect fit for this show? Nominate them to be a guest here: https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16 (https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16)

8. 

   9 Jun 2026

   Unlocking Creativity with Jason Blair

   Discover how creativity can transform education, community, and personal growth through the inspiring insights of educator Jason Blair. From childhood realizations to systemic changes, this episode explores how nurturing creative confidence can lead to more meaningful learning and living. In this episode: Jason shares the pivotal moments that shaped his understanding of creativity as a way of being. The importance of environment and relationships in fostering creative potential. How boredom and distraction hinder creative development—and how to combat them. The impact of societal efficiency demands on originality and imagination. Practical ways to cultivate creative confidence, including feedback phrases and structured processes like design thinking. The vital role of arts—and their marginalization—in a holistic education system. Examples from "Agents of Change" and other initiatives promoting student agency. The rise of third spaces for social connection and their influence on creativity. The relationship between emotional expression and problem-solving. Future challenges and opportunities with AI, neurodiversity, and integrated learning. Resources & Links: The Creative Act by Rick Rubin (https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Creative+Act+by+Rick+Rubin&i=stripbooks&crid=33LY7E2W9X1AF&sprefix=the+creative+act+by+rick+rubin%2Cstripbooks%2C147&ref=nb_sb_noss_1) Deeper Learning in Schools — Joel Mehta & Sarah Fine (https://www.amazon.com/Search-Deeper-Learning-Remake-American/dp/0674988396) IDEO’s Design Thinking Resources (https://www.ideou.com/pages/design-thinking) Agents of Change  (https://sites.google.com/dublinschools.net/agentsofchange/home) Connect with Jason Blair: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-blair-99641978/) If you’d like to support the podcast, you can do that at buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne (http://buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne) Know someone who would be a perfect fit for this show? Nominate them to be a guest here: https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16 (https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16)

9. 

   26 May 2026

   Embracing Change & Innovation at Any Age with Mark White

   Embracing Change & Innovation at Any Age with Mark White In this episode, Mark White shares his journey of continuous reinvention, emphasizing the importance of mindset, leadership, and culture in navigating change. Whether you're leading an organization, mentoring others, or personal growth, his perspectives on innovation, diversity, and resilience offer valuable guidance for all. Key topics: The metaphor of surfing the waves to represent thriving through change and the importance of adaptability How to shift from surviving change to thriving in it and taking small versus big steps The role of culture, respect, and shared vision in fostering creativity and innovation The impact of generational differences on leadership styles, creativity, and communication Tips for leveraging diverse thinking, building cross-generational mentorship, and developing personal branding Strategies for creating momentum in organizations through communication, testing, and safe spaces for experimentation The changing landscape of attention spans, training, and meetings influenced by technology The importance of authenticity and humanity in an AI-driven world Resources & Links: Mark’s website (find his books here!) (https://www.markwhitelearning.com/4-gen-leadership) Generation Nation Podcast (coming soon: link pending) Idea Flow by Jeremy Utley (https://www.jeremyutley.com/ideaflow) Connect with Mark White: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/markwhite55/) If you’d like to support the podcast, you can do that at buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne (http://buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne) Know someone who would be a perfect fit for this show? Nominate them to be a guest here: https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16 (https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16)

10. 

    12 May 2026

    Reinventing First Responder Training with John Born

    Discover how John Born, a veteran public safety leader, is transforming law enforcement training through immersive virtual reality experiences at Ohio University. Learn about the collaborative efforts, innovative approaches, and impact of experiential learning on officer safety, trust-building, and community relations. Main Topics: The role of innovation within structured public safety organizations How cinematic virtual reality enhances law enforcement training Building trust and soft skills such as empathy through immersive experiences Collaborations across university and public service sectors The future of experiential learning and its broader applications in education Key Insights: A crisis is a turning point balancing risk and opportunity; preparation and practice tip the scale Innovation often originates from the ground up, driven by employees and frontline workers Simple, cost-effective ideas, such as green windshield tags, can significantly improve officer safety Virtual reality reduces training time from hours to minutes while improving retention and realism High-quality storytelling and collaboration with professionals create immersive, impactful experiences Virtual reality builds empathy, soft skills, and trust, which are crucial for community safety and engagement Universities are uniquely positioned to lead scalable, research-based innovation in public safety training Resources & Links: Ohio University Grid Lab (https://www.ohio.edu/technology/physics/virtual-reality) Ohio 360 Initiative (https://www.ohio.edu/voinovichschool/ohio-360) Scripps College of Communication (https://scripps.ces.ohio.edu/) Connect with John Born - LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-b-937210227/) If you’d like to support the podcast, you can do that at buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne (http://buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne) Know someone who would be a perfect fit for this show? Nominate them to be a guest here: https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16 (https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16)

11. 

    28 Apr 2026

    Leadership, Innovation & Resilience with Dr. Tiffany Crosby

    Explore how Dr. Tiffany Crosby navigates health crises, transforms the accounting profession, and leads with purpose and faith. This episode offers inspiring insights on resilience, strategic leadership, and innovative thinking amid challenges. Main Topics Covered: Hidden innovations in the accounting industry Addressing talent shortages through systemic collaboration Leveraging constraints to foster creativity and innovation Personal resilience through health crises and faith-driven leadership Building and nurturing future leaders within organizations In this episode: Tiffany discusses the unexpected innovations happening within accounting, such as AI integration and strategic advisory roles. She shares how systemic collaboration and fact-based coalition-building can address industry shortages. The importance of working within constraints creatively, using challenges as opportunities for innovation. Tiffany recounts her remarkable health journey—brain aneurysm, strokes, and overcoming physical adversities—highlighting resilience and faith. Strategies for leaders to operate effectively on days of weakness include delegation, self-awareness, and emphasizing mindset. Her approach to leadership rooted in faith, dignity, and purposeful living. Practical advice for facing personal and professional challenges: viewing them as seasons and focusing on growth. The significance of habits, intentionality, and community support in shaping a resilient mindset. Reflection on trusting oneself and maintaining joy amidst adversity. Resources & Links: The Power of Habits (https://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/dp/B0FD49GYHN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=JWQJKU43K70S&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.0hHZS6RnjQpYhx8VcpQxY8h6w-P8Orl8iQfddTe-yvrIQsUpkjmoWHP4O9W8mWnCUQUkAagrthF8JtbupaFavy0E5jrZCN8Co1mxXPaQ1nc0W0F8vVwA77UdfcMlGUsbQgEg_UPvvPWHJGsIdx2dQyEq9JkcLiyib2nNIl_Q0phj0pFqB5IRinaXOIDWQnK3C2rP1guQ_oalBTGm1BkQu6uejQ8dJ4TM8EnMyVU9I7M.g9-Wt4rwdgla5ts8hD8VCPzhBqN-kPf-r5glfhdPOkc&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+power+of+habits&qid=1776452171&s=books&sprefix=the+power+of+habits%2Cstripbooks%2C164&sr=1-1) Ohio Society of CPAs (https://ohiocpa.com/) Connect with Tiffany Crosby:LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanycrosby) If you’d like to support the podcast, you can do that at buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne (http://buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne) Know someone who would be a perfect fit for this show? Nominate them to be a guest here: https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16 (https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16)

12. 

    20 Apr 2026

    Innovating Out of This World with Dr. John Horack

    Discover how innovation thrives across industries and challenges, especially in high-stakes environments like space exploration. Join Kristy Venne and aerospace expert Dr. John Horack as they explore the messy, courageous, and long-term nature of innovation that starts right where you are. Key topics: The universal nature of innovation – it’s a struggle everyone faces regardless of environment. Insights from NASA on pushing the boundaries of human spaceflight and safety. The importance of translating complex scientific research into everyday life, exemplified by GPS and space technology. Building resilient, long-term research initiatives in large institutions amid bureaucracy and political landscapes. Strategies to foster innovation in large organizations: saying yes, sharing ideas, embracing failure, and community support. The role of positivity, humor, and self-discipline in maintaining emotional resilience for leaders and innovators. Detail on Ohio State University’s STARLAB and the future of commercial space stations like Starlab. Protecting visionary ideas in large organizations by fostering a supportive, positive climate. Lessons from historical figures and modern scientists inspiring courage and perseverance. The exciting future of space research and the societal ripple effect of space innovations. Links: NASA (https://www.nasa.gov/) Starlab (https://voyagetechnologies.com/starlab) Ohio State University (https://osu.edu/) Voyager Technologies (https://voyagetechnologies.com/) Mitsubishi Corporation (https://www.mitsubishicorp.com/) VISTA Science Park (https://osu.edu/research/vista) Connect with Dr. John Horack: LinkedIn (https://linkedin.com/in/johnhorack) If you’d like to support the podcast, you can do that at buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne (http://buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne) Know someone who would be a perfect fit for this show? Nominate them to be a guest here: https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16 (https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16)

13. 

    7 Apr 2026

    Choosing Growth Over Comfort with Abbi Failla

    What does it look like to choose growth—even when it’s uncomfortable? In this episode, Abbi Failla shares her journey navigating a mid-career pivot into the logistics industry and what it takes to lead with courage in a space that’s constantly evolving. From building credibility in a new field to leading change inside organizations, Abbi offers a practical, grounded perspective on innovation, leadership, and continuous improvement. For leaders, professionals, and anyone considering a career shift, this conversation explores how growth mindset, disciplined risk-taking, and systems thinking can unlock new opportunities—especially in industries undergoing transformation. Key Takeaways Growth often requires stepping into discomfort—not avoiding it Career pivots can be a powerful form of innovation and reinvention Building credibility in a new industry requires intentional up-skilling and curiosity Small, disciplined innovation efforts compound over time Systems thinking helps translate skills across roles and industries Leading change requires alignment, communication, and trust Creating a culture of experimentation allows teams to learn from failure Women in male-dominated industries can lead with both strength and authenticity Continuous improvement is built through daily habits—not one-time shifts Resources & Links Recommended by Abbi Tools of Titans by Tim Ferriss (https://toolsoftitans.com/) Organizations Mentioned Ease Logistics (https://easelogistics.com/) Connect Connect with Abbi Failla (https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbifailla/) Support the Show If you find value in these conversations, you can support the podcast here: buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne (http://buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne) Nominate a Guest Know someone doing meaningful, innovative work? Submit a guest recommendation: https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16 (https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16)

14. 

    7 Apr 2026

    Staying Human in an AI World with Aaron Stout

    What does it mean to innovate without losing what makes us human? In this opening episode, Aaron Stout brings a grounded, human-centered perspective to one of today’s most urgent conversations: how we navigate rapid advances in AI while preserving creativity, curiosity, and connection. For leaders, educators, creators, and anyone navigating change, this conversation challenges common narratives about innovation, artificial intelligence, and the future of work. Aaron makes a compelling case that the future isn’t about replacing humans—but elevating them through thoughtful, human-centered design. You’ll hear how proximity to real problems, humility, and experimentation drive meaningful innovation—and walk away with practical ways to engage with AI without losing sight of what matters most. Key Takeaways Innovation starts with proximity AI is a tool that works best with human judgment Curiosity and failure are essential to creativity and growth Historical disruptions (ATMs, postal service) show technology often augments rather than replaces work Human-centered goals (HSI) more valuable than AGI alone Ethical development of AI requires broader dialogue Critical thinking and authenticity are increasingly important in a digital world Play, joy, and creativity are foundational to innovation AI can be leveraged in practical ways, including personal and family health insights Resources & Links Recommended Aaron’s Musings (https://aaronsmusings.substack.com/?r=2rcv9l&utm_campaign=subscribe-page-share-screen&utm_medium=web) (Substack) Playful (https://casholman.com/book) (Holman) One Useful Thing (https://www.oneusefulthing.org/) Jevons Paradox explained (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jevons_paradox) Additional Which Skills Matter Now (https://www.burningglassinstitute.org/research/whichskillsmatternow) Connect w. Aaron Stout (https://linkedin.com/in/aaronstout) Support the Show If you find value in these conversations, you can support the podcast here: buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne (http://buymeacoffee.com/kristyvenne) Nominate a Guest Know someone doing meaningful, innovative work? Submit a guest recommendation: https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16 (https://forms.gle/m8jxdVBKtMmPstK16)

Reach and audience

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

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

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