
Sparking Playfulness and Innovation in Existing Companies with Alma Derricks
07/25/23 • 35 min
Ever wondered how to ignite that much-needed spark of innovation in a large, established company? Want to learn how to navigate resistance to new ideas and create an environment that fosters creativity and innovation? Join us as we delve into these fascinating topics with our guest, Alma Derricks from Korn Ferry Consulting. We discuss the importance of stepping outside the comfort zone and embracing change, drawing from Alma's early internet days of creating websites and helping cool clients like Peanuts, Star Trek, and Blue Man Group transition to online.
How do we push past traditional boundaries to create something truly groundbreaking? Alma shares powerful insights on managing existing budgets and gaining stakeholder buy-in, while also highlighting the importance of taking responsibility for creative ideas and embracing side hustles as a means of experimentation. We'll explore how she pushed back against traditional industries to reclaim online rights, a bold move that made waves in the corporate world.
Finally, we challenge the traditional work script, debating whether hard work is really a prerequisite for meaningful work. Alma and I discuss the potential of valuing instinct and talent over sheer hard work, and how flipping the 80-20 rule to prioritize interesting work can yield far better results. We'll also share an example of how a seemingly simple solution solved a complex problem, emphasizing the importance of looking at situations from different perspectives. So, if you're ready to shake up your work routine, find personal fulfillment, and explore new opportunities within your company, this episode is packed with insights and stories that are sure to inspire.
(0:00:21) - Spark Innovation in Large Companies
Alma Derricks discusses sparking playfulness and innovation in large companies, taking risks, embracing change, and creating something new.
(0:11:59) - Navigating Resistance to New Ideas
Alma shares her experience of reclaiming online rights and taking responsibility for creative ideas, discussing playfulness, innovation, budgets, and buy-in in larger companies.
(0:19:24) - Creating Work You Love, Finding Environment
Alma and I discuss how hard work isn't necessary for meaningful work, flipping the script of hard work to interesting work, and an example of a simple solution.
(0:26:24) - Exploring New Opportunities Within Your Company
We discussed side hustles, gamifying work, and personal responsibility for financial security and fulfillment.
Buy the Playful Humans Book on Amazon!
Playful Humans was an Amazon best-seller in the happiness category...
Get your copy now!
Support the Playful Humans mission to help adults rediscover the power of play:
Ever wondered how to ignite that much-needed spark of innovation in a large, established company? Want to learn how to navigate resistance to new ideas and create an environment that fosters creativity and innovation? Join us as we delve into these fascinating topics with our guest, Alma Derricks from Korn Ferry Consulting. We discuss the importance of stepping outside the comfort zone and embracing change, drawing from Alma's early internet days of creating websites and helping cool clients like Peanuts, Star Trek, and Blue Man Group transition to online.
How do we push past traditional boundaries to create something truly groundbreaking? Alma shares powerful insights on managing existing budgets and gaining stakeholder buy-in, while also highlighting the importance of taking responsibility for creative ideas and embracing side hustles as a means of experimentation. We'll explore how she pushed back against traditional industries to reclaim online rights, a bold move that made waves in the corporate world.
Finally, we challenge the traditional work script, debating whether hard work is really a prerequisite for meaningful work. Alma and I discuss the potential of valuing instinct and talent over sheer hard work, and how flipping the 80-20 rule to prioritize interesting work can yield far better results. We'll also share an example of how a seemingly simple solution solved a complex problem, emphasizing the importance of looking at situations from different perspectives. So, if you're ready to shake up your work routine, find personal fulfillment, and explore new opportunities within your company, this episode is packed with insights and stories that are sure to inspire.
(0:00:21) - Spark Innovation in Large Companies
Alma Derricks discusses sparking playfulness and innovation in large companies, taking risks, embracing change, and creating something new.
(0:11:59) - Navigating Resistance to New Ideas
Alma shares her experience of reclaiming online rights and taking responsibility for creative ideas, discussing playfulness, innovation, budgets, and buy-in in larger companies.
(0:19:24) - Creating Work You Love, Finding Environment
Alma and I discuss how hard work isn't necessary for meaningful work, flipping the script of hard work to interesting work, and an example of a simple solution.
(0:26:24) - Exploring New Opportunities Within Your Company
We discussed side hustles, gamifying work, and personal responsibility for financial security and fulfillment.
Buy the Playful Humans Book on Amazon!
Playful Humans was an Amazon best-seller in the happiness category...
Get your copy now!
Support the Playful Humans mission to help adults rediscover the power of play:
Previous Episode

Playing the Music of Your Life: An Inspiring Journey with Lady Redneck
How much power does play hold in our careers? Can it serve as a catalyst for success? Get ready to explore these intriguing questions with the vivacious musician and entertainer, Lady Redneck. Strap in for a spirited conversation that traverses the boundary between work and play, and underlines the importance of joy, authenticity, and resilience in our journey. Listen as Lady Redneck, AKA Stephanie Lee Lowry, reveals how she transformed her passion into her profession and the unique marketing strategies she employed to get noticed by major labels.
Ever wondered how to keep your attitude positive and maintain self-care when the going gets tough? Lady Redneck has some inspiring answers as she shares her infectious enthusiasm, her dedication to finding fun in her work, and her insights on balancing life and success. Listen to her unique perspective on dealing with haters, protecting your identity, and maintaining authenticity amidst criticism. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of how to stay true to oneself while navigating the ups and downs of life and career.
In the final part of our conversation, we engage in a lively game of Two Truths and a Lie, adding an element of fun and unpredictability to the episode. This chat with Lady Redneck is not just about her journey; it's a testament to the miraculous power of a playful attitude. It's an invitation to discover and embrace the playful human in each one of us. So come join us, and let's explore the power of play together.
(0:00:00) - Power of Play in Music Careers
Lady Redneck discusses her music career journey, the power of play, creative marketing, and advice for young people pursuing music.
(0:13:04) - Joy and Balance in Work-Play
Lady Redneck and I discuss joy, self-care, attitude, and fun for balance, success, and happiness.
(0:20:32) - Overcoming Haters and Embracing Authenticity
Lady Redneck's alter ego, fear of the unknown, authenticity, and fun bucket list are discussed.
(0:28:11) - Discover the Power of Playful Humans
Lady Redneck and I prioritize joy, protect identity, and handle criticism to stay balanced.
Buy the Playful Humans Book on Amazon!
Playful Humans was an Amazon best-seller in the happiness category...
Get your copy now!
Support the Playful Humans mission to help adults rediscover the power of play:
Next Episode

A Blueprint for Beating Bullies with Bullseye The Clown
Comedy As Armor: Bullseye's Fight Against Bullying
How can humor be a powerful tool against bullying? This question drives our conversation with the incomparable Bullseye the Clown, who shares his inspiring transition from stand-up comedian to clown. Bullseye unveils a gripping tale laced with a surprise inheritance and a spontaneous journey to Russia that led him to the world of clowning.
Bullseye's unique perspective on bullying offers insight into an issue that has drastically evolved over time. He dissects the stark contrast between traditional and cyberbullying, highlighting the importance of a strong support system and a positive environment to combat this issue. He emphasizes the transformative power that positivity can have on bullying, providing a fresh perspective that turns the tables on this prevalent issue.
In the final part of our chat, Bullseye delves into the details of his book, 'Bullseye On Bullying: A Blueprint for Beating Bullies,' sharing the therapeutic wonders of clowning. He introduces his website, 'Clowns On A Mission,' where the spirit of play is boldly celebrated. Join us for this exploration of the multi-faceted world of bullying, and let's embrace the power of play with @BullseyeTheClown.
(0:00:00) - Rediscovering Play and Beating Bullies
Bullseye shares his story of clowning, bullying, humor, and connection to help people beat bullies.
(0:09:52) - Navigating Bullying
Bullseye shares insight on bullying, cyberbullying, positive support systems, and the power of positivity.
(0:22:34) - Bullying, Stand-Up Comedy, and Hecklers
Bullseye shares how clowning has helped him cope with bullying, handle hecklers, and make people laugh.
(0:31:59) - Clown's Book, Entertainment, and Playfulness
Bullseye the Clown shares his work in beating bullies, the power of play, Clowns On A Mission, Bullseye on Bullying, and the Playfulness Quiz.
Buy the Playful Humans Book on Amazon!
Playful Humans was an Amazon best-seller in the happiness category...
Get your copy now!
Support the Playful Humans mission to help adults rediscover the power of play:
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