In this episode of the AlchemistX Innovators Inside Podcast, Ian Bergman sits down with Lisa Bodell, futurist, founder of FutureThink, and expert in simplifying complex systems to drive innovation. Their conversation dives deep into the power of simplicity, the importance of time management, and how curiosity and collaboration fuel innovation.
1. Simplicity Drives Innovation
Lisa highlights the need for simplification in today's increasingly complex world. Many organizations are bogged down by unnecessary processes, layers of bureaucracy, and an overwhelming focus on doing more. However, true innovation often comes from subtraction—getting rid of redundant tasks, meetings, and rules that waste time and energy. By simplifying, teams can focus on what truly matters and create space for innovation to thrive.
2. Time is the Foundation of Innovation
According to Lisa, one of the most significant barriers to innovation is a lack of time. It’s not that people aren’t creative—it’s that they’re too busy. To be truly innovative, organizations need to give their teams time to think, experiment, and collaborate. Without the mental space to reflect on and refine ideas, innovation gets buried under day-to-day tasks.
3. Embrace a Culture of Curiosity
Curiosity is at the heart of all great innovations. Lisa discusses how fostering a curious mindset within teams can unlock breakthrough ideas. Encouraging employees to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and explore different perspectives leads to a more innovative and agile organization. By promoting curiosity, leaders can inspire fresh approaches to problem-solving and keep their organizations adaptable in a fast-changing world.
4. Collaboration Must Include Diverse Voices
Lisa emphasizes the importance of collaboration, both within and outside of an organization. Effective collaboration comes from including diverse voices—especially those that challenge the status quo. Bringing in "unusual suspects" or people with differing opinions and experiences ensures that ideas are stress-tested and refined. This approach strengthens solutions and helps avoid blind spots that can hinder innovation.
5. The Courage to Kill Stupid Rules
One of the most impactful exercises Lisa uses with her clients is the concept of “killing stupid rules.” Often, the very rules that were designed to create efficiency end up stifling creativity and progress. Leaders must have the courage to reevaluate and eliminate outdated or unnecessary rules that block innovation. Simplifying processes and empowering teams to challenge ineffective norms is key to fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
By simplifying work processes, fostering curiosity, and encouraging diverse collaboration, organizations can unleash their true innovative potential.
Timestamps
📢 Introduction to Lisa Bodell and FutureThink (00:00:00)
🎯 Lisa's Career Journey: From Advertising to Innovation (00:02:16)
💡 Can Innovation Be Taught? (00:04:15)
🕰️ Time as the Biggest Barrier to Innovation (00:10:28)
🔄 The Complexity Trap: Why We Value Being Busy (00:12:14)
🚀 How Companies Like Sanofi Build Simplicity Into Their Culture (00:17:05)
🤔 Encouraging Curiosity: How to Flex the Curiosity Muscle (00:22:28)
🔥 Exercises to Challenge the Status Quo: Kill a Stupid Rule & Ideas That Get You Fired (00:24:42)
🌍 The Future of Education and the Importance of Critical Thinking (00:28:24)
📚 Recommended Read: The Social Animal and Cross-Pollination of Skills (00:31:16)
🎮 Rapid Fire Questions with Lisa (00:32:43)