#143: Blending Storytelling, Design, and Innovation with Hussain Almossawi

Innovation is a word that gets thrown a lot, but it can be tough to know just what steps to take to actually innovate. How do you know what works and what's more futile than trying to talk to a friend during the encore of a rock concert?

Hussain Almossawi has always looked at ways to innovate while blurring the lines between storytelling, visual effects, and design. And it's led to creative opportunities with companies including Nike, Disney, Adidas, and ultimately, his own company, Almossawi Studios.

Luckily, Hussain is here to bring us along for the ride thanks to his book The Innovator's Handbook: A Short Guide to Unleashing Your Creative Mindset. We're talking about how to deal with pushback, the time one of his designs almost got hit with a lawsuit, and ways to be more innovative.

This episode is presented by MyLifeInABook.com. They offer a super fun way to get to know your loved ones better, collect timeless memories for future generations, and bring the family together! Use code "GPCT" at checkout or click right here and save

Highlights of our conversation

  • Hussain talks about the journal he had growing up and how he predicted a technological breakthrough even back then. (4:12)

  • Where the idea for The Innovator’s Handbook came from and a few of Hussain’s favorite exercises from the book. (6:11)

  • How to deal with pushback and why it’s important to recognize the power of “and”. (10:50)

  • Does working virtually stifle or enhance innovation? (13:26)

  • Ways to blur the line between product design, visual effects, and storytelling. (16:40) 

  • A look inside Hussain’s “What If” creative projects he’s working on — and why some of those projects nearly led to a lawsuit. (18:58)

  • The companies Hussain dreamed of working for when growing up and why those experiences helped him start his own company. (26:32)

  • The most surprising part about running a business or working for your dream company. (29:00)

  • How to turn your business into a passion. (29:56)

  • The top three companies Hussain has worked for. (33:52)

Where to find Hussain Almossawi

Pick up a copy of The Innovator’s Handbook on Amazon.

Follow Hussain on Instagram.

Head over to Mossawi Studios for even more good stuff.

Special Thanks to MyLifeInABook.com

This episode is presented by MyLifeInABook.com. They offer a super fun way to get to know your loved ones better, collect timeless memories for future generations, and bring the family together! Use code "GPCT" at checkout or click right here and save $10 off your purchase.

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#144: How to Grow a Small Business While Avoiding Burnout with Veronica Kirin

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#142: Clean Drinking Water for Everyone with Christoph Gorder