A Great Idea Isn’t Enough—Build the Coalition to Make It Real: with Jason Wild & Linda Hill

Your best ideas won’t go anywhere if you don’t know how to build the influence to make them happen.

In this episode of Big Swings Only, Harvard Business School professor Linda Hill and innovation leader Jason Wild, co-authors of Genius at Scale, reveal what it really takes to turn ambitious ideas into meaningful change. Their research shows that breakthrough innovation isn’t just about having the right idea—it’s about building the relationships, trust, and coalitions needed to carry that idea across the finish line.

Linda and Jason break down how to lead and influence without formal authority, navigate organizational politics without simply “playing politics,” and recognize the sources of power you may already have. They explore why self-awareness is an underrated leadership skill, how to become a “bridger” who works effectively across boundaries, and why the strongest leaders know when to give away credit to build commitment and trust.

You’ll also learn how great leaders build coalitions that transform individual efforts into movements—and how people with little authority, budget, or status can still create change at extraordinary scale. From navigating AI-driven uncertainty to leading former peers and having difficult conversations with transparency, this episode offers a practical look at the human side of leadership and innovation.

If you have a big idea you want to bring to life, stop waiting for authority to make it happen. Build your influence, find your coalition, and take the swing.

Connect with Linda Hill and Jason Wild

Website: https://geniusatscale.com/

Book: Genius at Scale: How Great Leaders Drive Innovation (multiple languages)

Consulting, Research & Speaking: https://paradoxstrategies.com/

LinkedIn:

Linda Hill - https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-hill-hbs/

Jason Wild - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonwild/

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