Ep 011: Navigating Change & The Future with Honest Communication

Regan and Eugenia Blackstone, Chief Marketing Officer for Iris Powered by Generali (Iris), dive into the idea that future-readiness is about being “planned but not planted,” and why honest communication must be an intentional part of your business transformation plan (and not an afterthought). They explore misconceptions about innovation (hint: you’ve got to keep taking those 3-point shots), and how taking bite-sized steps and remaining flexible are key to creating your long-term roadmap. Key Takeaways The importance of patience and childlike wonder when anticipating the future.  Why innovation isn’t about process, but about staying in the game and creating the right culture. How Nike’s revolutionary Flyknit technology drew inspiration from ancient techniques.  The role of an enduring brand purpose when delivering value in different contexts.  Why multi-directional, honest communication determines the success or failure of any transformation effort. Resources Connect with Eugenia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugenia-blackstone-marketing/ Learn about Eugenia’s company, Iris Powered by Generali: https://www.irisidentityprotection.com/ About Our Guest  Eugenia Blackstone is the Chief Marketing Officer for Iris Powered by Generali (Iris), boasting over 20 years of experience developing marketing, brand awareness, and media strategies for international businesses. Ms. Blackstone started her career with Caterpillar Inc., one of the world’s leading providers of construction and mining equipment, where she consistently drove revenue growth and increased sales in her role as a client representative helping to develop tactical marketing initiatives.  Since the start of 2024, Ms. Blackstone has continued to drive branding and media awareness strategies for Iris, helping to secure nearly 50 industry awards during her tenure as CMO. Ms. Blackstone was named to the 2024 Forbes Entrepreneurial CMO 50 List, recognized for “her ability to drive business transformation and create a new value proposition, increasing both relevancy and access to the tools Iris provides for both the enterprises they serve and the hundreds of millions of consumers served in turn.” She was also named as one of Pavilion’s 50 CMOs to in Watch 2024. About Future Fit™ with Regan Robinson  Future Fit™ unravels the secrets of how the world’s most innovative leaders stay future-ready in a fast-paced world. Hosted by futurist and strategist Regan Robinson, each episode explores how trailblazing executives turn uncertainty into their strategic advantage. Gain powerful insights and practical approaches as these visionary minds share the unconventional and imaginative ways they thrive today while leading their teams into tomorrow. If you love what you’re  getting out of our show please subscribe, rate and review. About Regan Robinson Regan Robinson is a holistic futurist and business strategist that empowers visionary companies to turn uncertainty into advantage and effortlessly innovate and strategize for their future. Over the course of 20+ years, she has helped some of the world’s most influential brands and companies strategize and grow. Regan has spearheaded revenue increases of 300%+, led as an executive at 3 start-ups and established business models, new capabilities, infrastructure and roadmaps for companies like VICE Media and Edelman Digital. Website: https://www.reganrobinson.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/reganrobinson Future Fit™ Newsletter: linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7054904910919667713 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@regan_robinson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamreganrobinson All contents of this show are rights of Regan Robinson and are not to be used unless authorized by written consent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices