In Episode 2 of Innovation Exchange, Elizabeth Thelen is joined by Dr. Andy Dahl and Dr. Choton Basu to explore how innovation takes shape on campus and beyond.

Drawing from their work with students and their own professional experience in marketing, entrepreneurship, and technology, Andy and Choton share where they see innovation happening today—whether in classrooms, student organizations, or informal spaces across campus. They also reflect on common barriers students face, from uncertainty to not knowing where to begin, and how those challenges can be overcome.

The conversation also highlights key takeaways from the InnoLead Impact Conference and how innovation is evolving in real-world organizations. Throughout the episode, the focus remains on curiosity, experimentation, and the role students play in shaping the future.

Interested in continuing the conversation? Connect with Elizabeth Thelen to share your ideas, ask questions, or explore opportunities to get involved in innovation at UW–Whitewater.

In our very first episode of Innovation Exchange, Elizabeth sits down with UW-Whitewater junior Adam Heikkinen to explore innovation beyond the buzzword. From balancing accounting, IT, and the Honors program to recognizing innovation in everyday problem-solving, Adam shares how curiosity—not flashiness—drives meaningful change.

Together, they discuss:

• How innovation looks at the student level

• What holds students back from experimenting

• Why small mindset shifts can be powerful

• The intersection of accounting and IT in shaping the future

• The role students play in shaping campus innovation

If you’ve ever thought, “I want to be more innovative, but I don’t know where to start,” this conversation is for you.

Innovation doesn’t start with perfection—it starts with curiosity.