Innovation Isn’t a Buzzword. It’s a Way of Living.

We throw the word “innovation” around a lot—but what does it really mean?

In this episode of Coffee and Tea with CarrieVee, I sat down with the brilliant Robyn Bolton, founder of Mile Zero and author of Unlocking Innovation. And let me tell you, this woman doesn’t just talk about innovation—she lives it. From launching Swiffer right out of college to consulting with major companies, Robyn’s story is rooted in asking the right questions, challenging the norm, and stepping into uncertainty with confidence (even when it’s messy).

What really stuck with me? Her belief that innovation is something new that creates value. Not just flashy ideas or cool tech—but real solutions that help real people. That’s when it clicked: innovation is an act of service.

Stop Doing It “Because That’s the Way It’s Always Been Done”

Robyn calls herself a lifelong questioner—always asking “why?” and pushing back on “because we’ve always done it this way.” And yes, she admits, it nearly got her fired a few times. But that mindset? It’s what led her to help companies break out of stagnant patterns and move into new, growth-filled directions.

She shared how innovation often starts with noticing discomfort. The feeling that something doesn’t quite fit or could be better? That’s your signal. Not your weakness. It’s your invitation to explore.

You Don’t Have to Have All the Answers

Let’s be real: so many of us think we need to have the answers, especially when we’re leading others. Robyn says the opposite is often true. In innovation, you rarely have the answer upfront—you have hypotheses, guesses, gut feelings. And that’s okay.

One of my favorite pieces of advice she shared? Channel your inner George Costanza from Seinfeld and try doing the opposite of what you’d usually do. If your instinct is to give a direct answer, pause and ask a question instead. Get curious. Let people share more. That’s where new ideas bloom.

For the Introverts in the Room

We had such a fun moment talking about how introverts can thrive in creative spaces. Brainstorming sessions, group projects, collaboration—it can be a lot! Robyn recommends silent brainstorming to give everyone space to think and contribute, especially those of us who need quiet to find our best ideas.

And if you’re an extrovert? You’re not off the hook! Creating room for everyone to feel seen and heard is your innovation edge.

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The Power of Leaning into the Discomfort

Robyn reminds us that we don’t grow by staying safe. Growth comes through discomfort, bumps, and, yes, even a little mess. As she puts it, “They call them growing pains—not growing tickles—for a reason.”

So here’s your gentle nudge: whatever’s tugging at your heart, whatever you’ve been avoiding because it feels scary? There’s something beautiful waiting on the other side.