Insights

It was a full-circle moment when Dr. Eulanda Sanders welcomed former student Colin Behr to the iNNOVATION Insights Podcast. She first met him at Iowa State University, where they collaborated on exploring shoe design, fabric properties, and creative problem-solving. Now, Colin is the founder of The Wardrobe Theory Project—an innovative approach to fashion that applies systems thinking, storytelling, and sustainability to celebrate the clothes people already own.

Filmmaker and digital artist Michael Burton, MFA, of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, is known for blending film, animation, 3D digital costuming, and historical research to tell untold stories. In this iNNOVATION Insights episode, he shares how his innovative approach brings history to life—from recreating 19th-century Washington, D.C., to reuniting descendants of the Bell family—demonstrating the power of technology in preserving and sharing the past.

From retail floors to university classrooms, Dr. Amy Shane-Nichols has built a career on adaptability, brand expertise, and lifting others. In this iNNOVATION Insights Podcast episode, she shares lessons from decades in retail, her research on identity and branding, and her work creating experiential learning opportunities for students. Her story is a masterclass in staying true to your values while embracing change.

Dr. Nicole Butts brings over 25 years of experience in HR, DEI, and organizational change to the INNOVATION Insights Podcast. In this powerful episode, she shares the origins of her SHIFT framework, a step-by-step guide to transforming culture with clarity and courage. From navigating 2020’s dual crises to helping leaders align their values with daily actions, Dr. Yeldell Butts offers practical wisdom on reflection, leadership, and building inclusive, intentional workplace cu

From hotel turnarounds to higher education, Dr. Jokima Hiller’s journey is a masterclass in leading with heart. In this powerful episode of the INNOVATION Insights Podcast, Dr. Hiller shares how she built her career on care, elevated others through mentorship, and found unexpected innovation—even in the face of personal adversity. Do not miss her moving story of resilience, community, and the enduring power of hospitality.

Dr. Asia Lyons transforms research into action, empowering Black educators through wellness, healing, and innovation.

Dr. Shannon Coleman shares how mentorship, food science, and community engagement fuel her innovative work in research and extension.

Discover how Dr. Ogbeide’s “hospitality intelligence” transforms leadership, service, and innovation across all industries.

Dr. Sarah Rodriguez shares how authenticity, branding, and fearless research fuel her innovative academic journey.

Dr. Erin French redefines quiltmaking, global education, and research, challenging gender norms and fostering innovation in learning.

Empathy is not optional in leadership. Discover how Dr. Malinda Shultice uses listening and compassion to transform senior living.

Innovation thrives with strategy! Learn from Dr. Alberto Galasso how IP, patents, and AI shape the future of business and academia.

Black fashion history is rich, global, and ever-evolving. Reflecting on my podcast with Tonya Blazio-Licorish, we explored its impact

Mentorship, innovation, and resilience—my conversation with Nia Allen left me in awe, proud, and fighting back an ugly cry.

Laughed, learned, & redefined innovation with Mike Todasco. From AI to creativity, this episode left me inspired & stumped! #InnovationInsig

Inclusive fashion, innovation, and entrepreneurship—ChaCha Hudson is reshaping the industry.

Exploring fearless collaboration & innovation with J.R. Campbell—how design thinking & making drive transformation in education & beyond.

Discover the untold stories of Black fashion innovators and their impact on the industry in my conversation with Tonya Blazio-Licorish.

Dr. Kerri McBee-Black is redefining fashion with inclusive design. Learn how her research is shaping the future of adaptive apparel.

Explore how Dr. Jessica Ciarla blends fashion, science, and sustainability to revolutionize design with eco-friendly innovation.