Responsible Disruption

Building a Better Alberta

In this episode, we explore the topic of social innovation in the Alberta ecosystem. Jordana Armstrong from Innovate Calgary and Christine Spottiswood from AB Seed share their insights and experiences on how social innovation is being promoted and developed in the region—the importance of collaboration and partnerships and how these relationships can drive positive social change. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a social impact investor, or simply interested in learning about social innovation, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to drive positive change in their community.
 
In the spirit of our journey to promote reconciliation, we would like to honour the truth of our shared history and acknowledge Treaty 7 territory and the traditional lands of the Blackfoot Confederacy, that includes the Kainai, Siksika, and Piikani First Nations. We acknowledge the traditional lands of the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda, including the Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Wesley First Nations. We would also like to recognize the Métis people, and the Inuit people who have made their home here in Mohk’insstsis, also known as Calgary.

Meet the Hosts

Join hosts James Gamage, Sydney Johnson and Monique Blough from The Social Impact Lab as they dive into the world of social innovation and how design can be used to create positive social change. Our hosts provide a unique perspective on how these disciplines can be used to create positive change in communities. Throughout the episode, they discuss their passion for social innovation, the importance of design in the process, and the role of collaboration in driving impact. They also share their backgrounds and expertise, highlighting their diverse perspectives and experiences. Responsible Disruption aims to inspire listeners to join the movement for social change and engage with them in future discussions about the intersection of design and social innovation.
Topics discussed during the episode.
Inspire
Natural Supports Simulation 
 
In the spirit of our journey to promote reconciliation, we would like to honour the truth of our shared history and acknowledge Treaty 7 territory and the traditional lands of the Blackfoot Confederacy, that includes the Kainai, Siksika, and Piikani First Nations. We acknowledge the traditional lands of the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda, including the Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Wesley First Nations. We would also like to recognize the Métis people, and the Inuit people who have made their home here in Mohk’insstsis, also known as Calgary.

The Lab’s Story

Karen Young, CEO & President of United Way of Calgary and Area, and John Vardalos, CEO of J5 Design, sit down to discuss their collaboration in creating The Social Impact Lab, which combines the expertise of a social impact organization and a design firm.You will learn about the motivations behind this unique partnership and the challenges Karen and John faced along the way. Through the conversation, you will gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to create real, meaningful change. Karen and John will share their experiences, best practices, and lessons learned as they work together to drive social impact in Alberta and beyond.
 
Topics discussed in the episode: 
Inspire
Natural Supports
In the spirit of our journey to promote reconciliation, we would like to honour the truth of our shared history and acknowledge Treaty 7 territory and the traditional lands of the Blackfoot Confederacy, that includes the Kainai, Siksika, and Piikani First Nations. We acknowledge the traditional lands of the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda, including the Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Wesley First Nations. We would also like to recognize the Métis people, and the Inuit people who have made their home here in Mohk’insstsis, also known as Calgary.

Women of the Lab

In this episode, hosts Sydney and Monique celebrate the world of women in innovation, exploring women's challenges and opportunities in this field. Their backgrounds in design and social innovation bring a unique perspective, focusing on how your mindset can be used to create solutions for the barriers women encounter in innovation. This episode aims to empower and encourage listeners to drive positive change in their communities and beyond by showcasing the stories of inspiring women and promoting the importance of diversity in innovation.
 
Topics discussed in the episode:
The Committed Innovator: Women continuing to change the world
Are Women Too Timid When They Job Search?
 
In the spirit of our journey to promote reconciliation, we would like to honour the truth of our shared history and acknowledge Treaty 7 territory and the traditional lands of the Blackfoot Confederacy, that includes the Kainai, Siksika, and Piikani First Nations. We acknowledge the traditional lands of the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda, including the Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Wesley First Nations. We would also like to recognize the Métis people, and the Inuit people who have made their home here in Mohk’insstsis, also known as Calgary.