From Professional Rugby to Reinvention with Aidan McCullen Ep 229 - The Global Discussion

The Global Discussion

Host Simon Hodgkins welcomes Aidan McCullen, a dynamic thought leader in innovation, reinvention, and organizational transformation, to The Global Discussion. McCullen's career is a testament to his ability to evolve and thrive in the face of change, from his early days as a professional rugby player to his influential work today as the co-founder of The Reinvention Summit, principal at Edge Behaviour, and host of The Innovation Show podcast.

A Journey of Reinvention

Aidan McCullen describes his career as a series of acts. "I've had multiple lives," he shared, recounting his first career in rugby, where he represented Ireland and played professionally in Europe. This experience taught him the importance of preparing for change, a lesson that would echo throughout his life. After his sports career, McCullen transitioned into the corporate world, finding his niche in digital transformation, innovation consulting, and organizational leadership.

Aidan is the author of Undisruptable: A Mindset of Permanent Reinvention for Individuals, Organisations, and Life, which continues to be a resource for those navigating the rapid pace of change in today's world.

The Innovation Show: Learning in the Open

McCullen's passion for sharing knowledge comes alive through The Innovation Show, his podcast that has been running for nearly a decade.

Initially launched with the backing of Ireland's national broadcaster, RTE, the show's format evolved over time. The addition of video during the pandemic significantly boosted engagement. Now a global phenomenon, The Innovation Show reaches a diverse audience of leaders and learners, capturing McCullen's commitment to exploring and sharing insights on innovation.

Looking Forward: The Reinvention Summit

One of McCullen's most ambitious projects to date is the upcoming Reinvention Summit, set to take place on April 29-30, 2025, at the Royal Dublin Convention Center. This event aims to rethink the traditional conference format, focusing on inspiration and actionable insights. Attendees will benefit from unique formats like interactive workshops led by industry giants, including keynote speaker Seth Godin, and group sessions that foster meaningful connections and real-world applications.

McCullen's vision for the Reinvention Summit goes beyond a typical summit experience. By collaborating with experiential event specialists Nine Yards and global innovation leader Nadia Jackson, he aims to create an "unconference" that breaks down barriers to learning and emphasizes active participation over passive listening. "We want people to leave not only inspired but equipped with the tools to implement change," McCullen explained.

Lessons in Adaptation and Growth

McCullen's story underscores a powerful message: success in any field hinges on a mindset of continuous reinvention. From the rigors of rugby to the demands of consulting and the innovation ecosystem, McCullen has developed a philosophy that stresses the importance of "doing the work" and staying curious, even—or especially—when times are good.

In his closing words, McCullen offered advice to those navigating a rapidly changing world: "Don't wait for a crisis to start building skills. The best time to prepare for change is when things are going well." This advice encapsulates his philosophy and serves as a reminder that growth is a continuous journey—one we can all take if we're willing to keep learning.

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