Unlocking the Wisdom of Ignorance

What if the smartest move a leader can make isn’t having all the answers—but admitting they don’t know? In this episode of The Next Interview, we dive deep into the leadership mindset, innovation strategy, and trust-building practices that separate thriving executives from those left behind.
I’m joined by Alan Gregerman, President and Chief Innovation Officer at Venture Works, author of The Wisdom of Ignorance, and a globally recognized voice on helping leaders unlock the genius inside their teams. Together, we explore why the best breakthroughs come not from experts but from fresh perspectives—and how leaders can build systems that inspire growth, collaboration, and relevance in a rapidly changing world.
Website: https://alangregerman.com/
Book: https://a.co/d/9m8ZgF8
eMail: innovate@venture-works.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-gregerman-a33b236/
👉 In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Why saying “I don’t know” can be a leader’s greatest act of confidence.
• How to turn conflict and change into innovation opportunities.
• The six essential skills of enlightened leadership every executive needs.
• Practical ways to build trust, autonomy, and high-performing teams.
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction
03:15 – Redefining innovation: Experts vs. fresh eyes
10:45 – Why disruption starts inside your own business
18:30 – The “customer gap” and staying relevant
27:00 – Change, conflict, and leading through uncertainty
39:45 – Micro-moments of trust that transform culture
51:20 – The six skills of enlightened ignorance
1:03:30 – Final insights + closing challenge
If you’re a leader serious about growth, innovation, and building empowered teams, this conversation is for you.
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Doland White is the host of The Next Interview, where bold leaders reveal the real stories behind growth, empowered teams, and leadership breakthroughs. With over 40 years as a CEO, COO, executive, advisor, and transformation coach, he brings sharp strategy and a deep belief in trust, autonomy, and accountability. His conversations cut through the noise to deliver insights that help leaders build confidence, scale results, and change lives.

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