75. Dr. Kenneth G. Brown

The Iowa Idea: Dr. Kenneth G. Brown

“An opportunity to get better together.”

Welcome to the 75th episode of The Iowa Idea Podcast, where I’m joined by Dr. Kenneth G. Brown. Ken is a Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship in the Tippie College of Business at The University of Iowa. He also serves as Associate Dean of Undergraduate Program in Business. Ken grew up in Maryland and earned his PhD at Michigan State. His award-winning research focuses on e-learning, engagement, leadership development, motivation and self-regulation, and training design and evaluation.

Outside of his work for The University of Iowa, Ken is an active supporter of public education and a passionate  advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Ken shares his journey into organizational psychology, the importance of embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion. We dig into organizational and individual learning in the context of psychological safety; and why safety and high performance are not mutually exclusive. Ken helps illustrate how business can benefit from embracing DEI.

We explore the role of psychological safety and learning opportunities in organizations, and why it’s instrumental to continuous improvement and innovation. We talk about the ability for organizations to balance both explore and exploit mindsets, and the importance of paradoxical thinking.

As we face ever more complex problems, we need move beyond the stereotype of the rugged individual and embrace the potential of high performing teams. To do that, Ken says “you need teams that functional well.”

It was an honor having Ken join me on the show. I’d like to thank him for his time and perspective. If you’re interested in improving the performance of your teams or organizations, or simply want to hear a great guest, listen in. Ken provides plenty of insights and tips on critical issues that may face groups and organizations. I hope you enjoy the episode.

About Ken

Ken is a Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship in the Tippie College of Business at The University of Iowa. He also serves as Associate Dean of Undergraduate Program in Business. Ken earned his PhD at Michigan State. His research interests include e-learning, engagement, leadership development, motivation and self-regulation, and training design and evaluation.

Outside of his work within The University of Iowa Ken is an active supporter of, and fundraiser for, public education and an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Links

Ken’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kgbphd/

Tippie College of Business: https://tippie.uiowa.edu/

ICCSD Foundation: https://iccsdfoundation.org/

Endure to Cure Foundation: https://enduretocure.org/

Braver Angels: https://braverangels.org/iowa/

No Labels: https://www.nolabels.org/

Credits

Episode produced by Spark Consulting Group (www.inspiredbyspark.com) in Iowa City, with support from Executive Podcast Solutions (https://www.executivepodcastsolutions.com/).

The Iowa Idea Podcast theme music written and performed by Paisley Bible (https://paisleybible.bandcamp.com/).