Magic in the Room #89: Creating an Innovative Environment with Kevin R. Strauss

February 15, 2022
Many companies strive to be innovative, but they don't create a culture and environment that encourages innovation. In this episode of Magic in the Room, Hannah and Ben join guest Kevin Strauss to discuss his new book, Innovate the 1%. Kevin makes the case that the real foundation of innovation is healthy, high trust, relationships.

Find Kevin and his book Innovate the 1% at kevinrstrauss.com or on LinkedIn.
Find Kevin’s company at UchiConnection.com

About Kevin Strauss
Kevin R. Strauss, M.E. loves solving problems. He has earned over 75 patents and published more than 10 peer-reviewed papers across multiple industries. He has earned two industry awards for innovation. Kevin’s ideas have helped save lives around the world and generate billions of dollars in revenue. Kevin believes everyone can innovate and he teaches the diverse array of people in organizations and schools how to strengthen the foundational areas.

Find Kevin’s book Innovate the 1% at kevinrstrauss.com/innovatethe1percent/

Listen now on your favorite platform!


Research in this episode:
Find our latest online learning courses at www.purposeandperformancegroup.com/online-learning
Get a free Magic in the Room hat by posting a review and sending a screenshot to: info@purposeandperformancegroup.com

By Sarah Whitfield March 3, 2026
In this episode of Magic in the Room, Luke, Hannah, and Chris explore how the concept of mattering transforms customer experience through their practical GUEST framework. Building on the idea that people thrive when they feel noticed, affirmed, and valued, they argue that exceptional service is not just about efficiency or technical competence, but about intentionally designing experiences where guests truly feel significant. They unpack the five elements of the GUEST model: Greet with empathy, Uncover needs, Express gratitude, Share names, and Teach benefits. They show how each step reinforces belonging and loyalty, whether in a 30-second interaction or a 30-year relationship. The conversation highlights the difference between service and hospitality, the power of recovery when mistakes occur, and the leadership responsibility to embed mattering into culture rather than leaving it to chance.
By Sarah Whitfield February 18, 2026
In this episode of Magic in the Room, Luke, Hannah, and Chris explore the lessons, transitions, and leadership insights they’re carrying forward into 2026, emphasizing the importance of narrowing focus, letting go of resistance, and aligning with natural rhythms to create meaningful momentum. They discuss how personal and professional growth often emerges through periods of chaos and transition, highlighting themes such as intentionality, subtraction as a multiplier, and the courage required to release control, certainty, and outdated habits. Drawing on their work with purpose-driven organizations, they explain how leadership transformation begins internally, noting that organizational change is inseparable from personal development and mindset shifts. They also explore how embracing disturbance, addressing root causes instead of symptoms, and cultivating hope rather than cynicism can unlock resilience, stronger culture, and long-term performance.
Show More