Empowering Innovators: Ed Essey's Journey

SummaryIn this episode of ‘Tell Me More’, CJ Quartlbaum interviews Ed Essey, a Senior Director at Microsoft Garage, who shares his journey from childhood aspirations to becoming a coach for innovators. They discuss the importance of understanding self-worth, identifying toxic leadership, and the transformative changes in Microsoft’s culture under Satya Nadella. Ed emphasizes the need for individuals to interview their bosses and protect their resources as they navigate their careers. He also introduces his upcoming book, ‘The Inside Job’, which uses heist movies as a metaphor for driving meaningful change and innovation.Ed Essey is the Senior Director of Business Value in The Microsoft Garage, where he helps turn bold ideas into real-world impact. As the creator of The Garage Growth Framework, he has led programs that secure executive sponsorship at an 85% success rate, launching hundreds of projects. An MIT graduate, serial founder, and product leader, Ed specializes in early-stage innovation, AI, and bridging people with technology. His upcoming book, The Inside Job: The Intrapreneur’s Toolkit to Mastermind Meaningful Change and Innovation, is a heist-themed manual for innovators. A mindful leader, he empowers people to know their worth and use their gifts to make meaningful change in the world.https://edessey.comLinkedIn: @esseyIG: @ed.esseyFollow me on Instagram: CJ_QuartlbaumWatch the full conversation on YouTubeListen on AppleListen on Spotify Get full access to CJ's Substack at tellmemorewithcj.substack.com/subscribe