From Rock Bands to Innovation: The Journey of Jon Hagan

In this engaging podcast episode, Al Del Degan sits down with Jon Hagan, a multifaceted creator with a background in music, writing, and business innovation. Jon shares the inspiring story of his journey from aspiring rock star to a creative force in the world of innovation through storytelling and strategic partnerships. With a passion for creativity, Jon has dabbled in everything from forming a rock band to writing children's books, all the while nurturing his inner entrepreneur in the tech world. Through vivid anecdotes and personal reflections, Jon provides listeners with valuable insights into balancing artistic passions with professional endeavors, emphasizing the power of creativity as a catalyst for innovation.

Stay tuned after the end credits to hear one of the songs Jon and his band created titled Shunned

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry.

Guest: Jon Hagan is a seasoned communicator and business developer with a passion for storytelling, innovation, and community building. As a senior business partner at Alberta Innovates, he hosts and produces Shift by Alberta Innovates. His background spans government, private industry, public relations, media production, the arts, and sciences, allowing him to bring a creative and humorous edge to his work.

Beyond his professional endeavors, he is a writer with a published children's book and a work-in-progress classified as weird fiction. He is also an avid creator of original musical content, ranging from soundtracks to songs performed under the band name The Plugs! He maintains an endless curiosity, particularly regarding emerging tech, entrepreneurship, sustainable solutions, science, music, and literature.

Show Links:

• Inventures 2025
• Host of Shift by Alberta Innovates
• The Plugs
• Children's book: The Augtonauts
• Todd McFarlane

Show Quotes:

"Creativity has always been a real important part of my approach to life." "It's one thing to do it yourself, but when someone else is cheering you on, it’s motivating." "There's far too much negativity out there... have fun with life."

Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan