From leading public sector strategy at Adobe to advising global smart cities at the World Economic Forum, Brian Chidester brings a bold and future-forward perspective to this episode of #GovCom Unfiltered: The Podcast.As Head of Global Strategy and Innovation for Public Sector at Adobe and host of The Government Huddle Podcast™, Brian shares what it takes to lead at the intersection of technology, policy, and public service. With an impressive track record across Adobe, Genesys, Socure, OpenText, and beyond, he unpacks the discipline, mindset, and strategy that define innovation in the federal space.
What You’ll Hear:
• How Brian’s background in sports shaped his leadership approach
• The mindset and methods driving public sector innovation
• Lessons from bold career pivots—and how to spot the right moment
• Why purpose matters more than a paycheck in mission-driven work
• Balancing competition and collaboration in GovTech
• What’s next in digital government—and how leaders can prepare
• How mentorship and a global perspective fuel impactful strategy
• A look ahead: Brian’s evolving vision for Adobe and public sector transformation

• How Brian’s background in sports shaped his leadership approach
• The mindset and methods driving public sector innovation
• Lessons from bold career pivots—and how to spot the right moment
• Why purpose matters more than a paycheck in mission-driven work
• Balancing competition and collaboration in GovTech
• What’s next in digital government—and how leaders can prepare
• How mentorship and a global perspective fuel impactful strategy
• A look ahead: Brian’s evolving vision for Adobe and public sector transformation
Whether you’re a tech strategist, agency innovator, or emerging GovTech leader, this episode delivers sharp, unfiltered insight on navigating complex systems, building purposeful careers, and leading at scale in the digital age.
https://youtu.be/6RIhYgzyBtw
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction – Brian Chidester
01:03 Brian’s Early Career and Sports Influence
02:36 Discipline and Motivation in Professional Life
05:11 Unconventional Strategies for Success
08:53 Mentorship and Career Pivot
12:09 Passion and Purpose in Work
16:06 Balancing Competition and Collaboration
22:03 Emerging Opportunities and Future Outlook
25:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
01:03 Brian’s Early Career and Sports Influence
02:36 Discipline and Motivation in Professional Life
05:11 Unconventional Strategies for Success
08:53 Mentorship and Career Pivot
12:09 Passion and Purpose in Work
16:06 Balancing Competition and Collaboration
22:03 Emerging Opportunities and Future Outlook
25:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts