We asked some very talented folks to tell us about the most innovative thing they’ve done in their career.
Hiroshi Yamamoto
In the early days of transitioning from an Omakase sushi chef to a donut baker, I faced the significant challenge of harmonizing the delicate art of sushi-making with the dynamic world of baking. This shift allowed me to apply the precision and respect for ingredients that I developed in high-end sushi restaurants to the bakery setting. Now, when creating donuts priced between $1 and $2—part of everyday life unlike the luxury of sushi—I utilize these skills daily. Despite seeming simplicity, producing hundreds of donuts each day proved to be more complex, as donuts are sensitive to temperature, humidity, and timing, requiring consistent precision. Read more>>
Jeffery Beckham
Innovation is often portrayed as the domain of tech titans, but for me, it has always been about solving real-world challenges for the communities I serve. One of the most impactful innovations in my career is the creation of REACH Pathways. This AI-powered ed-tech platform connects underrepresented students with career pathways, mentors, and resources to ensure their long-term success. Read more>>
Gabrielle Thompson
A crucial part of being a successful business owner is understanding what works for you and knowing when to innovate. Early in my career, I realized that innovation wasn’t just about big, disruptive ideas—it was about finding creative solutions that aligned with my strengths and goals. In my industry, breaking away from traditional practices rooted in outdated values can be particularly challenging, but I’ve always been driven to push those boundaries. Read more>>
Miranda Tate
The most innovative thing I’ve done in my career is bridge the gap between real estate, lifestyle, and storytelling. I’m not just selling houses; I’m selling a lifestyle and weaving compelling narratives around them. By leveraging the power of television and the American Dream TV Network, I’ve created a platform that amplifies the stories of my city, its people, and the very essence of the American Dream. Read more>>
Joe Hawke
It’s certainly true that innovation tends to be portrayed as synonymous with technology. Most of my career, I have been attracted to middle-market industrial businesses, the kinds of companies where skilled technicians do things like bend metal and turn wrenches. Within that category, my primary focus has been on fixing, flying, and financing helicopters, not so much for individuals as for mission critical applications, like medevac, law enforcement and utility operations (gas pipeline and electrical grid patrol). While helicopters themselves are highly engineered products, I am not an engineer or involved in innovating the helicopters themselves. Read more>>
Christopher Love
There was a point in my career when I realized that I was creating content just to produce it as quickly as possible, without a clear purpose or vision. This approach began to feel stagnant, and I felt I wasn’t creating anything that set me apart in the field. Read more>>
Vijat Mohindra
Most recently, I’ve taken an innovative step by opening The Powder Room Studio LA, a
one of a kind photography studio designed to support emerging creatives and artists
seeking cost-effective ways to elevate the production value of their work. Our creative
space eliminates the need for extensive set design and construction, streamlining the
creative process and enhancing the visual storytelling of productions shot at our studio. Read more>>