Unlocking innovation through positive leadership. In this episode Judith Germain speaks to Jarrod Lopiccolo on nurturing talent and developing a culture of innovation. Jarrod explains Noble’s approach to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of innovation. This includes creating a safe environment for employees to bring their whole selves to work, be curious, and try new things. He discusses the company’s Innovation Council that provides a structured process for exploring new ideas and solutions.
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Key Takeaways
- Authentic connections and genuine curiosity about employees are foundational for nurturing talent
- Innovation requires creating psychological safety and dedicated structures like an Innovation Council
- Positive leadership attitude is crucial for company success and employee retention
- Noble Studios uses its business as a vehicle to spread positivity and help people bring their whole selves to work
Topics
Noble Studios Background
- Founded 21 years ago by Jarrod and his wife in their early 20s
- Started as a digital agency building websites, now a full-service agency
- Works primarily in travel and tourism space
- Has offices in the US and UK with 16 team members in Bristol
Approach to Nurturing Talent
- Focus on creating meaningful connections with employees
- Show genuine interest in employees’ lives, goals, and aspirations
- Ask questions like “What does success look like a year from now?”
- Allow people to bring their whole selves to work
- Create psychological safety for employees to try new things and fail
Fostering Innovation
- Created an Innovation Council with representatives from different areas
- Dedicate 1-5% of budget towards innovation and discovery
- This year’s theme is “Better Curiosity” to encourage exploration
- Provide AI tools and adopt a “BYO AI” approach
- Report monthly on innovation projects and tool adoption
Leadership Philosophy
- Lead by example – “charge into battle” rather than ordering others
- Maintain a positive attitude, which is infectious
- Have a “no jerks” clause in agreements to ensure respectful work environments
- Use the business as a vehicle to spread happiness and positivity
Global Expansion
- Opened UK office to spread their leadership and business philosophies
- Receiving awards for culture and service work in the UK
- Goal is to spread infectious positivity and help people unlock their best selves
In this conversation Jarrod emphasises the importance of positive attitude and leadership, noting that it is what separates good companies from great ones. He shares his philosophy of “charging into battle” alongside his team rather than just ordering them to solve problems. Jared also discusses the company’s “no jerk” clause to ensure a respectful work environment.
Jarrod Lopiccolo is the driving force behind Noble Studios. He believes that constant growth, both professionally and personally, is the key to unlocking our full potential and driving real, lasting impact.
Jarrod Lopiccolol can be found on LinkedIn here. His website is here.
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