Episode 19: Democratizing Access to Innovation

Guest Bio

A self-described “engineer with the soul of an artist,” Wanita Dixon, Ph.D. AKA Dr. Dubs, balances creativity and a logical approach towards turning ideas into income™. Combining engineering, business, and art, she helps organizations and individuals achieve their goals in a creative way. A trusted advisor to C-suite corporate leaders, Dr. Dubs brings these experiences to democratize access to innovation for artists, small businesses, and nonprofits.

Recap & Takeaways

• [00:11 – 02:48] Dr. Wanita Dixon, merging mechanical engineering and visual artistry
• [02:50 – 05:24] The innovator’s method and design thinking, understanding commercialization
• [05:33 – 10:06] Art therapy and finding satisfaction in the craft
• [10:10 – 11:29] Virtual giving creative event
• [12:11 – 14:49] Dr. Dubs, Wanita’s nickname and new STEAM podcast
• [14:57 – 18:02] An exercise to practice: remember the future
• [18:03 – 20:31] Walking into spaces comfortably
• [20:33 – 23:56] A futurist student, and thinking about motivating people toward a common purpose
• [24:04 – 25:51] Choosing and finding the best team members
• [25:55 – 29:53] Democratizing access to innovation, and user experience
• [30:14 – 33:40] Artists and residents for corporations
• [34:03 – 37:55] Having a voice to talk about day-to-day problems
• [37:59 – 38:59] Fear and psychological safety
• [39:00 – 40:11] Realizing Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs impact on employee passion and mental health
• [40:15 – 42:39] Wellness 101 and the 15-minute vacation
• [42:40 – 46:17] Lifting employees up, volunteering and side-hustling