
Episode 057: The Pracademic Mindset with Dr. Larry Clay Jr.
From DBA Chronicles by Dr. Kelly Burich and Dr. Valrie Grant
April 23, 2026 · 53 min
About this episode
Dr. Larry Clay Jr. discusses the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and personal transformation in organizations.
What if building better systems starts with becoming better humans? In this powerful episode of DBA Chronicles , we sit down with Dr. Larry Clay Jr.—a design scientist, professor, and thought leader working at the intersection of innovation ecosystems, sustainability, and quantum thinking. From a childhood moment of curiosity (and a literal electric shock ) to designing flourishing cities and organizations, Dr. Clay shares a deeply personal and intellectual journey into how systems and people truly thrive. What you will learn: Why curiosity is the foundation of innovation and leadership The shift from fixing systems to transforming self What quantum leadership and quantum design thinking really mean (and why they matter now) How flourishing, not just performance should define success in organizations The power of designing ecosystems, not just businesses How tools like the Flourishing Business Model Canvas bridge theory and real-world impact About the Guest Dr. Larry Clay Jr. is an Assistant Professor of Business at Marymount University’s College of BILT (Business, Innovation, Leadership & Technology), specializing in entrepreneurship, strategy, and innovation ecosystems. His…
People in this episode
Hosts: Dr. Kelly Burich, Dr. Valrie Grant
Guest: Dr. Larry Clay Jr.
Topics covered
- pracademic mindset
- innovation ecosystems
- sustainability
- quantum thinking
- leadership
- flourishing organizations
Keywords
- curiosity
- quantum leadership
- design thinking
- flourishing business model
- ecosystem design
- human-centered design
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Marymount University, Case Western Reserve University
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