Pay It Forward: How Three Words Created Podcasting’s Longest-Running Innovation Show

Killer Innovations with Phil McKinney - A Show About Ideas Creativity And Innovation

Have you ever wondered what it takes to build something that lasts? Not just a fleeting success, but a platform that grows, evolves, and continues to impact people decades later? The answer isn't high-end production equipment or a flawless business plan. It starts with a simple idea: pay it forward.

That philosophy is the foundation of Killer Innovations, the longest-running innovation show in podcasting history. Since its launch in March 2005, the show has shaped conversations about creativity, leadership, and disruptive ideas, guiding listeners through the ever-changing innovation landscape. But its journey began in the unlikeliest place—a hotel bathroom in Phoenix, Arizona.

From Bathroom to Broadcast: The Birth of an Innovation Show

Podcasting was still in its infancy when I decided to take a leap into the unknown. With nothing but a microphone and a quiet space (which happened to be a hotel bathroom), I recorded the first episode of Killer Innovations. I had no audience, sponsors, or clear idea of where it would lead.

I did have a lesson drilled into me by my mentor, Bob Davis.

Bob had invested countless hours guiding me, helping me navigate challenges, and opening doors I didn't even know existed. One day, I asked him how I could ever repay him.

His response changed everything:

“There's no way you can pay me back. You have to pay it forward.”

That challenge stuck with me. Could a podcast be my way of doing just that? Could I share what I'd learned about innovation and leadership with a few people and an entire community?

Innovation Lessons That Stand the Test of Time

Fast forward to today, and the show has become more than I could have imagined. But at its core, it remains about one thing: helping others innovate better. Through hundreds of episodes and conversations with some of the world's most creative minds, I've uncovered key truths about what makes innovation work:

• Innovation is intentional – It doesn't happen by accident. The best innovators create environments where new ideas can thrive.
• Failure is part of the process – The best lessons come from what doesn't work. Embracing failure leads to growth.
• Diverse perspectives spark creativity – The most disruptive ideas come from bringing together different viewpoints.
• Innovation is a learnable skill – Creativity isn't just for the naturally gifted. With the right tools, anyone can innovate.
• Human-centered solutions win – The best innovations aren't just technically impressive; they solve real human problems.

These principles have guided not just my work but the evolution of the innovation show itself.

How the Innovation Show Found Its Audience

In the early days, I recorded episodes without knowing if anyone would listen. Then, one moment changed everything.

Adam Curry—the pioneer of podcasting—mentioned Killer Innovations on his own show. Overnight, we gained an audience. That recognition validated the idea that people were hungry for conversations about creativity, problem-solving, and leadership in innovation.

Since then, the innovation show has continued to grow, not just in listenership but in its ability to shape real-world impact.

Season 20: A New Chapter in Innovation

Reaching Season 20 is more than a milestone; it's a renewed commitment to the original mission of paying it forward. This season, we're doubling down on:

• Innovation leadership – Giving you the tools to lead change in your organization.
• Practical creativity – Helping you turn ideas into reality.
• Live sessions from the Innovation Studio – Bringing the conversation to life in new ways.

To continue evolving, we're inviting our community to support the show through Patreon. Contributions help cover production costs, bring in new experts, and improve the quality of what we deliver every week.

Join the Innovation Show Community

As we move forward, one thing remains the same: Killer Innovations isn't just a podcast—it's a conversation. And I want you to be part of it.

• Subscribe on YouTube for new episodes and insights.
• Support the show on Patreon to help shape the future of innovation content.
• Connect with me on LinkedIn—mention that you're a listener when you send a request.

What innovation challenges are you facing right now? What's standing between you and your next breakthrough? Let's explore those questions together as we continue making innovation accessible, impactful, and lasting.

After all, the best innovations don't just change industries—they change lives.

To learn more about paying it forward and Season 20 of Killer Innovations, listen to this week's show: Pay It Forward: How Three Words Created Podcasting's Longest-Running Innovation Show.

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