In this episode of BizBlend, host Sana dives deep with JL Heather, founder of Centered, to explore innovation beyond buzzwords. JL breaks down the “Innovator’s Mindset” using a neurological model of the Dreamer, Executive, and Guardian—three internal voices we must balance to unlock creativity and strategic action. The conversation challenges traditional authority-led leadership, making a compelling case for influence-driven, servant leadership instead. JL shares why most innovations fail, how to avoid solution-bias, and how organizations like HP achieved in five days what typically takes months. Leaders, if you're stuck in the perfection loop, this episode will shift your thinking.

About the Guest: JL Heather is an innovation coach and founder of Centered, a consultancy that helps organizations embed innovation in their DNA. With a focus on design thinking, agile frameworks, and leadership transformation, JL equips teams to navigate uncertainty, improve culture, and move fast without breaking purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• Innovation fails when organizations apply old models to new problems.

• An innovator’s mindset means managing your internal Dreamer (creativity), Executive (logic), and Guardian (fear).

• Authority stifles innovation; influence empowers teams.

• Start with real human problems, not assumed solutions.

• Momentum beats perfection—cardboard prototypes > polished decks.

Connect with JL Heather: Website: www.centered.work LinkedIn: JL Heather

Want to be a guest on BizBlend? DM on PM – Send me a message on PodMatch

• DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik

• Tune to all our 15 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik

• Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/

• Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind

Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.pod Threads – https://www.threads.net/@healthyminds.pod Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster

#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #BizBlend #InnovationMindset #LeadershipDevelopment #ServantLeadership #AgileThinking #DesignSprints #PersonalGrowth #NeuroscienceInLeadership #StartupCulture #MindfulnessMatters #PodcastLife