innovation

Bon Voyage! Here Are Two Business Ideas that Need to Die

Bon Voyage! Here Are Two Business Ideas that Need to Die

I nearly scrapped this column, because they’re not bad ideas per se. Both are still in fashion today, especially in the startup-o-sphere, and like many popular ideas there's more than a grain of truth to them. But these two ideas have run themselves ragged, and I see them doing more harm than good when I encounter them. 

Lingerie, a Camel Burger, and the Moment of Inspiration

Lingerie, a Camel Burger, and the Moment of Inspiration

This week, it gives me great pleasure to direct you to two pieces I published last week in Fast Company and Elite Daily about seizing on moments of inspiration in business. I wanted to describe a few of the most formative experiences in my career that ultimately led me to start my latest venture, UserMuse.

Brainstorming: Why New Ideas Need Optimism Before Criticism

Brainstorming: Why New Ideas Need Optimism Before Criticism

As much as businesses need experienced hands to spot potential problems, they need boldness too. It’s hard to innovate without taking risks. And for many leaders, that’s what makes their jobs fun in the first place. The opportunity to do something new is what gets many of them out of bed in the morning, and it is a bummer to always be met with pessimism from the troops.

The Seven Types of Failed Thought Leaders

The Seven Types of Failed Thought Leaders

A real thought leader is recognized as an authority in their field on the basis of their powerful, original ideas and ability to drive adoption of them by the mainstream. The three key words to pay attention to in that statement are recognized, original, and adoption. Thought leadership means more than just having ideas: you have to effect real change...