Innovation in the pharma space seems to be something we all take for granted. We naturally assume that this is where great innovation is always happening as we read about new diseases, outcomes, and breakthroughs in research. In today's episode, we explore the role of innovation in the industry and the difference it makes to all of our lives.   My guest is Michelle Shogren, and she leverages a combination of over 25 years of experience in clinical trials, nine years in driving innovation, and a lifetime passion for helping people and patients to help companies turn creative ideas into very innovative results. Michelle shares how she began working in clinical trials and fell into innovation. But it all started with constantly thinking there's a better way to do things.  We discuss the importance of diversity in clinical trials and how COVID acted as a catalyst for change across the pharmaceutical industry. We also talk about functional fixedness and how this cognitive bias can prevent a person or an entire team from exploring opportunities outside of their traditional mindset.