#138 Race to Innovation (Part 1): The Untapped Power of Inclusive Entrepreneurship

Innovation doesn’t suffer from a lack of talent — it suffers from a lack of access.

In Part 1 of this powerful two-part conversation, Dr. Alisa sits down with Race to Innovation co-authors Dr. John Bamforth and Roy Zwahlen to unpack what they call America’s innovation deficit — and why unlocking overlooked potential is not just a moral imperative, but an economic one.

This episode dives deep into the hidden history of Black entrepreneurship, the mindset shifts required to recognize undervalued opportunities, and the underestimated role of enclaves — communities, networks, and institutions that quietly fuel innovation when mainstream systems fall short.

You’ll hear how innovation has always existed in marginalized communities, why it has often gone unseen, and what leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs must do differently if they want to build sustainable, scalable impact.

This is not theory. This is strategy.
 And it sets the foundation for the ownership, legacy, and acceleration conversation coming in Part 2.

Learn more about Race to Innovation: Unleashing the Power of Entrepreneurship for Everyone and connect with co-authors Dr. John Bamforth and Roy Zwahlen.

Explore the book, the research, and the ideas behind inclusive entrepreneurship and innovation:
 👉 Official Website: http://www.racetoinnovation.net/

This is the central hub for book updates, thought leadership, and insights on how diversity-driven innovation creates economic and social impact.