From QVC to the White House: How Vanessa Chan Champions Innovation Through Storytelling and Video

In this inspiring episode of In Focus, hosts Michael Ayjian and Stephen Skeel sit down with powerhouse innovator Vanessa Chan: a woman whose career spans engineering, entrepreneurship, and public service at the highest levels. From leading innovation at McKinsey to launching her own product on QVC and eventually becoming the Chief Commercialization Officer at the U.S. Department of Energy, Vanessa’s journey is anything but ordinary.

The Power of Storytelling and Video

One key takeaway from the episode is Vanessa’s unwavering belief in storytelling, especially through video, as a vehicle for impact. Whether pitching her tangle-free headphones on national TV or conveying clean energy goals to a divided America, Vanessa demonstrates that compelling narratives move hearts and markets. As she says, “People don’t remember the data. They remember the stories.”

Innovation, STEAM, and 7 Wonders of Impact

Vanessa now serves as the inaugural Vice Dean of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Penn Engineering, empowering students to bridge the gap between technology and real-world application. Her vision aligns beautifully with the 7 Wonders concept: celebrating transformative ideas and platforms that change how we live, learn, and connect.

And she’s not doing it alone. From mentoring her daughter’s girl-centered STEAM camp to redefining "technology readiness" with the widely adopted Adoption Readiness Levels, Vanessa proves that building inclusive, scalable solutions is a true wonder in itself.

Why Video Content Matters More Than Ever

This episode reinforces why video is a powerful tool for education, advocacy, and entrepreneurship. Vanessa’s viral videos, including one shot on a shoestring budget by the podcast hosts themselves, catalyzed media buzz, customer interest, and investor attention. Her stories serve as a testament to the transformative potential of visual storytelling in today’s digital world.

📺 Watch the full episode for an unforgettable deep dive into commercialization, creativity, and change-making.

Let this blog spark your next big idea — because in a world of noise, it’s the stories (and the videos) that break through.