Daily Creative with Todd Henry
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In this episode of Daily Creative, Todd Henry explores the subtle ways in which we avoid true commitment to our creative and professional ambitions. Todd discusses the concept of "escape hatches"—the backup plans, excuses, and rationalizations that prevent us from risking real vulnerability and discovering what we’re truly capable of. Drawing from personal stories and practical frameworks, we unpack three common escape hatches that undermine creative and leadership excellence: procrastination and last-minute work, dilution and divided attention, and backward rationalization of success. Todd also digs into actionable strategies to help you spot these patterns in your work, close escape hatches, and move forward with greater intentionality. Whether you lead teams, dream of launching a business, or simply want your creative efforts to have more impact, this episode offers practical, non-obvious guidance for getting braver, more focused, and brilliant every day. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: APPLY FOR CREATIVE LEADER ROUNDTABLE What if you had a space every month to sharpen your leadership edge without the fluff? The Creative Leader Roundtable is where smart, driven, creative leaders gather to exchange ideas, solve real challenges, and grow together. So if you lead a team of thinkers, makers, or dreamers, this is your lab. We're launching soon with a new group of leaders. So, if you're interested, check it out and apply at CreativeLeader.net https://creativeleader.net.
In this episode, we take a step back from our typical interview format to reflect on something many creative leaders are feeling right now: a subtle but persistent sense of drift amidst uncertainty. Drawing from recent conversations with leaders worldwide, Todd Henry digs into the changing dynamics of organizations, shifting marketplaces, and the unique challenges and numbness that come with these times. Instead of providing easy answers, Todd shares five uncomfortable—but essential—questions designed to provoke deep reflection for anyone with influence, whether you lead a team, guide clients, or simply shape decisions in your organization. He explores how apparent success can mask underlying misalignment, the dangers of leading from within an echo chamber, the paralyzing fear of looking foolish, the temptation of ego-driven systems, and the fine line between creating stability and fostering complacency in teams. This episode is an invitation to wrestle with the deeper work of leadership, sense-check our motives, and create environments where honest conversations and breakthrough ideas can flourish. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ Get full interviews and bonus content for free! Just join the list at DailyCreativePlus.com https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com. APPLY FOR CREATIVE LEADER ROUNDTABLE Leading creative people is rewarding, but it can also feel isolating. That's why I've started Creative Leader Roundtable, a private community where leaders like you connect monthly to get practical insights, honest feedback, and real encouragement. You'll leave every round table with fresh perspective and tactical ideas. You can apply right away. So if you lead a team of talented people, go check us out at CreativeLeader.net https://CreativeLeader.net, because creative work deserves brave leadership.
In this episode, we explore the unconventional story of Yvon Chouinard, the “dirtbag” climber who became the founder of Patagonia and ultimately gave away his billion-dollar company to protect its mission. In conversation with David Gelles—New York Times journalist and author of —we dig into the paradoxes of success, the power of awareness, and the ongoing tension between principle and profit. We discuss how Chouinard’s love for the outdoors led him to create climbing gear out of necessity, and how his refusal to ignore the negative impact of his products shaped Patagonia’s legacy of environmental stewardship and values-driven leadership. We reflect on how meaningful work often reveals itself not through grand visions, but through paying attention to the patterns and tensions within our everyday actions. The episode challenges leaders and creatives to reconsider what it means to act with integrity and to recognize the marks—both good and bad—we leave through our work. Chouinard’s story offers a blueprint for leading with conviction, making hard calls in service of a greater purpose, and understanding that values build momentum over time. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ Get full interviews and bonus content for free! Just join the list at DailyCreativePlus.com https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: APPLY FOR CREATIVE LEADER ROUNDTABLE Leading creative people is rewarding, but it can also feel isolating. That's why I've started Creative Leader Roundtable, a private community where leaders like you connect monthly to get practical insights, honest feedback, and real encouragement. You'll leave every round table with fresh perspective and tactical ideas. You can apply right away. So if you lead a team of talented people, go check us out at CreativeLeader.net https://CreativeLeader.net, because creative work deserves brave leadership.
For decades, we've been told that high performance is about gathering the brightest stars—the so-called “super chickens”—onto one team and watching the magic happen. But what if this approach is exactly what’s holding us back? In this episode, we challenge the myth of the lone genius and superstar culture, inspired by the research of evolutionary biologist William Muir and our guest, Jon Levy, author of . We dig into why the true driver of organizational excellence isn’t the brilliance of any one leader or individual, but the collective effectiveness of the team. Jon shares surprising findings from research on team dynamics, showing that stellar individual credentials often don’t correlate with high-performing teams—and sometimes even torpedo them. Together, we explore what makes teams “intelligent,” the concept of bursty communication, and the underappreciated power of “glue players”—team members who multiply the effectiveness of everyone around them, often quietly and behind the scenes. If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “We have the right people, so why aren’t we clicking?”, this conversation gives you an entirely new framework for team effectiveness. It’s not about outshining one another; it’s about amplifying each other. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: APPLY FOR CREATIVE LEADER ROUNDTABLE What if you had a space every month to sharpen your leadership edge without the fluff? The Creative Leader Roundtable is where smart, driven, creative leaders gather to exchange ideas, solve real challenges, and grow together. So if you lead a team of thinkers, makers, or dreamers, this is your lab. We're launching soon with a new group of leaders. So, if you're interested, check it out and apply at CreativeLeader.net https://creativeleader.net.
In this episode, we dive deep into what it truly means to sustain high performance—without losing ourselves along the way. We explore why the relentless pursuit of optimization can leave us exhausted, disconnected, and ultimately unsatisfied, even as our productivity dashboards look more impressive than ever. We sit down with Dr. James Hewitt, a human performance scientist and author of , who challenges the contemporary obsession with “optimization.” Instead, he offers a fresh perspective: success is about rhythm, not balance. We discuss how alternating between periods of intense focus and intentional renewal is not just effective, but necessary. Also joining us is Jim Murphy, author of , whose coaching of elite athletes and leaders centers on training not just the mind, but the heart. Jim’s journey—including a literal desert retreat—led him to believe that excellence is grown from within, through the cultivation of peace, confidence, and love, especially under pressure. Together, we examine why greatness isn’t something you manufacture through sheer effort. It’s something that arises when you let go, reconnect, and cultivate an inner life that is in sync with your values and goals. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: APPLY FOR CREATIVE LEADER ROUNDTABLE What if you had a space every month to sharpen your leadership edge without the fluff? The Creative Leader Roundtable is where smart, driven, creative leaders gather to exchange ideas, solve real challenges, and grow together. So if you lead a team of thinkers, makers, or dreamers, this is your lab. We're launching soon with a new group of leaders. So, if you're interested, check it out and apply at CreativeLeader.net https://creativeleader.net. APPLY FOR CREATIVE LEADER ROUNDTABLE Leading creative people is rewarding, but it can also feel isolating. That's why I've started Creative Leader Roundtable, a private community where leaders like you connect monthly to get practical insights, honest feedback, and real encouragement. You'll leave every round table with fresh perspective and tactical ideas. You can apply right away. So if you lead a team of talented people, go check us out at CreativeLeader.net https://CreativeLeader.net, because creative work deserves brave leadership.
In this episode, we dive deep into the paradoxical space where creativity thrives: the intersection of safety and danger. Drawing inspiration from IDEO’s iconic reinvention of the shopping cart, we explore how play, risk, and psychological safety fuel real innovation. We’re joined by Ben Swire—author of “Safe Danger” and former IDEO design lead—and Cas Holman, designer and author of “Playful,” to rethink the role of play and trust in work, leadership, and life. Ben shares why “safe danger” is the sweet spot creative teams need: an environment where people feel secure enough to step outside their comfort zones, challenge the norm, and speak candidly. We unpack why “comfort” is often mistaken for true safety—and why suppressing tension or chasing certainty kills innovation. Through real-world anecdotes, Ben reveals how play isn’t just childish fun; it’s a training ground for courage, trust, curiosity, and honest collaboration. Cas invites us to rediscover the lost art of playful exploration in adulthood. She challenges the myth that creative people crave boundless freedom—showing instead how constraints and a bit of friction spark our best ideas. We discuss how reframing success and experimenting with “what if” moments in daily life cultivates the resilience and curiosity critical for growth. The real challenge? Overcoming our aversion to looking foolish, letting go of performative pressures, and making the unknown a place of opportunity rather than fear. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM. Mentioned in this episode: APPLY FOR CREATIVE LEADER ROUNDTABLE Every creative team needs a leader who's brave, focused, and brilliant, but none of us get there alone. The Creative Leader Roundtable is your place to connect with peers, sharpen your leadership craft, and stay inspired for the long haul. We're about to launch with a brand new group of leaders. So, if you're interested, visit CreativeLeader.net https://creativeleader.net to learn more and to apply. Great leadership is a practice, not an accident. APPLY FOR CREATIVE LEADER ROUNDTABLE What if you had a space every month to sharpen your leadership edge without the fluff? The Creative Leader Roundtable is where smart, driven, creative leaders gather to exchange ideas, solve real challenges, and grow together. So if you lead a team of thinkers, makers, or dreamers, this is your lab. We're launching soon with a new group of leaders. So, if you're interested, check it out and apply at CreativeLeader.net https://creativeleader.net.
EPISODE 80: LUCKY BY DESIGN – SHOW NOTES Is luck really just random, or can we engineer it? In this episode, we explore how “luck” is often the result of preparation, pattern recognition, and a deep understanding of hidden systems that shape opportunity. Drawing from the unlikely success story of Gary Dahl’s Pet Rock and the groundbreaking research of Wharton economist Judd Kessler and his new book , we dig into the ways luck is built, not found. Judd Kessler introduces his framework of “hidden markets,” where things like tickets, jobs, and creative opportunities aren’t always allocated by price or obvious mechanisms. Instead, they’re shaped by invisible rules that govern access and advantage. We discuss the “three E’s”—efficiency, equity, and ease—as the building blocks of these markets, and examine real strategies to decode the signals and systems at play. Along the way, we unpack how showing up prepared, making it easy for others to work with us, and understanding the actual rules of the game can help leaders and creative professionals tilt the odds in their favor. We also take on the coming wave of AI-driven speed and automation, and ask what it means for authentic signaling in a world where bots are getting faster and smarter. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM. Mentioned in this episode: APPLY FOR CREATIVE LEADER ROUNDTABLE Leading creative people is rewarding, but it can also feel isolating. That's why I've started Creative Leader Roundtable, a private community where leaders like you connect monthly to get practical insights, honest feedback, and real encouragement. You'll leave every round table with fresh perspective and tactical ideas. You can apply right away. So if you lead a team of talented people, go check us out at CreativeLeader.net https://CreativeLeader.net, because creative work deserves brave leadership.
How do we keep our creative edge—and ourselves—intact while navigating constant demands, distractions, and emotional turbulence? In this episode, we explore two distinct yet overlapping paths to real impact and creative resilience. We first sit down with Robert Glazer, best-selling author of , who demystifies the role of core values as more than just aspirational words—they’re non-negotiable principles that serve as a compass for decision making, relationships, and leadership. We discuss how to identify actionable, clarifying values, why supposed “values” like “family” often hide deeper principles, and how lack of alignment between values and life leads to burnout and stagnation. Glazer shares his “big three” most life-defining decisions and what happens when our work, partners, or communities are out of sync with who we really are. Next, we’re joined by Josh Pais, veteran actor and creator of Committed Impulse, whose new book offers a radical take on performance and presence. Pais reveals how reframing so-called “negative” emotions like anxiety and nervousness—as simply energy—transforms dread into creative fuel. He walks us through practical access points to presence, explains why emotion labeling sabotages creativity, and shares tools for cultivating the embodied awareness needed to consistently put ourselves on the line, whether the audience is one person or a thousand. Together, these conversations serve up a roadmap for navigating modern creative pressures with clarity, energy, and authenticity. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com. To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+.
How often do our teams, family members, or collaborators end up misunderstanding each other even when we think we’re being perfectly clear? In this episode, we dive into the high cost of miscommunication and what it takes to become a “super communicator” in a noisy, divided world. We’re joined by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Charles Duhigg, whose new book “Supercommunicators” unlocks why our conversations so often miss the mark—and offers a toolkit for breaking through confusion and building true alignment. Together, we explore how clarity, empathy, and attention are more crucial than ever, especially as our workplaces and lives move online. From hospital handoffs to debates with Uncle Gary, we unpack the vital art of matching the right kind of conversation, listening deeply, and decoding the signals that don’t show up in written words. If you’ve ever walked away from an exchange realizing you and your counterpart were simply talking past one another, this episode is for you. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com.
In this episode, we explore the exhilarating—and sometimes terrifying—landscape of disruption with innovation expert Scott Anthony, author of . Together, we examine the rapid shifts happening across every industry and what it takes not just to survive, but to lead through change with courage and creativity. We discuss why disruption is as much about human behavior as it is about technology, and highlight the critical missteps leaders make when they listen only to their best customers. Scott shares stories from history, from the early days of the printing press to the dawn of the iPhone, revealing the hidden patterns of how real innovation emerges. We also dig into the “shadow” cast by epic disruptions—the unforeseen challenges, culture clashes, and the uncomfortable process of rewriting rules in real time. Scott explains how disruption often begins on the margins, serving unlikely customers and overlooked markets, and why innovation is a “collectively individualistic” pursuit that requires both lone sparks and community effort. Finally, we discuss practical steps for leaders to keep their organizations alert to opportunity: experiencing “tomorrow, today,” fostering playful experimentation, and nurturing cultures that let the sparks of creativity catch fire. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com.
Why does so much around us feel "vaguely familiar"? In this episode, we dive deep into the creative malaise of our overstimulated world—where endless scrolling, constant content, and a deluge of data make everything seem slightly derivative and uninspiring. We unpack the concept of “vague familiarity” and examine why our passion for novelty is constantly dulled by today’s information overload. To help us cut through the noise, we’re joined by Andrew Robertson, chairman of BBDO and author of . Andrew brings decades of frontline experience in fighting creative sameness at one of the world’s most successful advertising agencies. We explore the sometimes uneasy balance between operational excellence and breakthrough creativity, and how organizations can make space for real innovation without falling for surface-level quick fixes. Along the way, we break down actionable principles for reigniting creative excitement, including finding inspiration at the "edges," practicing attentional minimalism, and prioritizing productive passion over passive consumption. Andrew shares compelling stories—including how Delta Airlines redefined the passenger experience by rethinking the real source of travel stress—and reveals what it really takes to recognize a great idea (even in risk-averse environments). FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com.
In this episode, we explore what it takes to sustain creative leadership—not just for the next launch, but through the marathon of a meaningful career. We sit down with serial entrepreneur and author Chris Ducker to dig deep into his philosophy from his new book, "The Long Haul Leader," where he shares battle-tested frameworks for combating burnout and resisting the relentless drive of hustle culture. We reflect on how our culture glorifies quick wins and non-stop hustle at the expense of our health, relationships, and lasting impact. Chris opens up about his own struggle with severe burnout during the pandemic, describing the pivotal moment he realized he’d lost touch with what truly made him “him.” We discuss practical strategies that allowed him to recover, including building what he calls a Life Operating System (Life OS)—a set of rhythms and habits designed to make leadership and creative work sustainable for the long haul. We also highlight the importance of focusing on the right “who” as leaders, and why serving the right people makes all the difference. Together, we offer a smart, honest take on how to build resilience, manage energy, and stay effectively creative without losing yourself to exhaustion. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com.
In this episode of Daily Creative, we dive deep into the concept of doubt as a catalyst for creativity, innovation, and effective leadership. We explore a real-world story where doubt reshaped a project and led to a superior outcome, challenging our culture’s bias toward certainty and snap answers. Our guest, Dr. Bobby Parmar, author of and professor at the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business, unpacks the neuroscience and psychology behind how we process uncertainty—and why embracing doubt can be a superpower for leaders, entrepreneurs, and creators navigating complexity. Together, we examine why most of us conflate intelligence with having the “right” answer, how our brains use doubt to signal that there’s more to learn, and why organizations need to shift from rewarding certainty to cultivating a culture of inquiry. Dr. Parmar breaks down the brain’s “trio” of systems—pursue, protect, and pause/piece together—and shows how effective decision-making requires moving beyond tunnel vision and quick fixes. We also discuss practical tools for reframing doubt, including leveraging four essential “lenses” (principles, consequences, character, and relationships) when making decisions. Through tangible examples and research insight, we reveal how the most creative and resilient outcomes often emerge when we pause, invite challenging perspectives, and courageously sit with uncertainty. KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com.
In this solo episode, we explore a profound question: Are we building our professional lives around fleeting moments, or are we becoming mountains—steady, enduring, and impactful over the long term? We reflect on the contrast between “moment makers” who chase applause and “mountain builders” who quietly cultivate trust, skill, and lasting influence through steady practices. We examine the cultural obsession with moments of sudden attention and why anchoring our identity or work to them can lead to instability. The episode offers thought-provoking guidance on grounding our creative efforts in durable rhythms, valuing depth over visibility, and making decisions today that will matter years from now. We end with a reminder that while moments energize us, only the mountains we build truly stand the test of time. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com.
Why does time feel so slippery, especially for creative pros? In this episode, we explore the phenomenon of “time anxiety”—that restless sense that we’re running out of time or not spending our hours on what really matters. We’re joined by Chris Guillebeau, author of the book , who brings a fresh lens to how we experience time, how our anxieties about it span past, present, and future—and why productivity hacks alone will never be enough. We dig into the difference between optimizing and aligning our time, the dangers of chasing phantom deadlines, and why so much of our stress comes not from the clock itself but from unresolved tensions and borrowed definitions of success. Together, we share practical tactics to help you shift from a reactive, urgent default to a more intentional, aligned creative life. If you’ve caught yourself sprinting but never arriving, or if you’ve ever felt that low-grade hum of anxiety about how you’re spending your days—this conversation is for you. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com. To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+.
EPISODE E71 – DISTANCING In this episode, we dive into one of creativity and leadership’s most overlooked superpowers: the ability to distance ourselves from our own immediate experience. We explore why our best work rarely happens by accident—it’s a result of disciplined, intentional decisions made from a broader perspective. We sit down with former nuclear submarine commander and bestselling author L. David Marquet https://davidmarquet.com, whose latest book, , unpacks the science and practice of decision-making from outside the narrow lens of our “immersed self.” Together, we examine why it’s so difficult to see beyond our own biases, emotional investments, and routines, and what it looks like to make choices for the legacy we actually want. Through practical stories—from creative team roadblocks to how Jeff Bezos made his leap away from Wall Street—we learn tactical ways to step outside ourselves and consider decisions from our future self’s vantage point. Marquet explains how to escape the trap of defending past choices and why adopting the perspective of someone else, somewhere else, or sometime else can unlock breakthrough clarity—especially under pressure. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+. THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com.
In this episode, we explore the idea that “cover bands don’t change the world”—and what it really takes to move from remixing the familiar to truly original creative work. We discuss why so many creative professionals feel stuck in safe, derivative cycles, and how our obsession with mimicking proven formulas can prevent us from breaking new ground. We’re joined by Phil White—co-author of —who shares stories of extraordinary creatives who managed to defy their circumstances, resist conformity, and persist even when the odds (and voices around them) told them to play it safe. From artists raised in poverty to film directors who battled crippling self-doubt, these stories reveal not just the necessity of originality, but the deep personal and community roots that underwrite bold creativity. Here’s what we unpack: __ __ FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com. To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+.
In this episode of Daily Creative, we dive into the hidden forces that can derail even the most talented and well-intentioned leaders: blind spots. We explore why self-awareness isn’t just about knowing our weaknesses, but also understanding how our biggest strengths—if left unchecked—can turn into liabilities. We’re joined by Marty Dubin https://blindspotting.com, executive coach, former CEO, clinical psychologist, and author of the new book . Marty shares his framework for uncovering blind spots across six key areas: motives, traits, emotion, intellect, behavior, and identity. Together, we discuss how habits and internal narratives can get stuck even as our roles evolve, and the vital importance of inviting honest feedback from those around us before it’s too late. We cover: __ __ FIVE KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com. To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+.
In this episode of Daily Creative, we dig into the origins and unexpected global impact of the “like button” with business thinker and strategist Martin Reeves, co-author of. Together, we uncover not just the technical and historical story behind one of the internet’s most recognizable icons, but also how something so small has fundamentally rewired our ideas about validation, success, identity, and creativity. We explore the messy, iterative invention process behind the like button, dispelling the myth of the “lone genius” and highlighting the chain of small, serendipitous problem-solving moments that led to its creation. Through Martin’s research and stories—ranging from ancient Roman gestures to the algorithmic engines of the digital age—we examine how cultural symbols embed themselves in new technologies, how our need for validation can become a trap, and why creative leaders must be wary of chasing applause over substance. Finally, we reflect on how the very tools we invent end up shaping us, for better or worse, and what that means for our own creative paths today, especially as technologies like AI quickly raise similar questions about identity, taste, and agency. KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com. To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+. To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+.
In this episode, we dive deep into what it really means to be human in today’s workplace. We push back against the efficiency-obsessed culture and explore how bringing more humanity, joy, and intention into work leads to better results and more meaningful lives. First, we’re joined by BREE GROFF, author of and consultant and expert in organizational transformation. Bree breaks down why work doesn’t have to be drudgery and makes a compelling case for infusing fun and playfulness into our daily grind—not in a frivolous way, but as the key to unlocking creativity and doing our best work. She shares actionable tips for reclaiming joy, such as “do nothing days” for creative recharge and learning to defend our most valuable asset: our attention and creative energy. In the second half, we sit down with EMILY KASRIEL, journalist and author of . Emily reveals why truly listening is not just a soft skill but a transformative, radical act. She offers insights into overcoming distractions—both internal and external—and shows us how deep, empathetic listening can fuel connection, innovation, and motivation at work. Whether you’re leading a team, managing up, or navigating your own next steps, this episode is packed with fresh perspectives and practical advice for bringing more humanity to your workday and life. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ Get full interviews and bonus content for free! Just join the list at DailyCreative.app https://DailyCreative.app. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com. To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+. To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+.
Summer's in full swing, our routines are upside down, and creative disciplines are as vital as ever. In this special episode, we share Todd Henry's live talk from Scottsdale, Arizona, exploring the heart of creative work and what it really takes to thrive as a “create on demand” professional. Todd unpacks why producing brilliant work isn’t as simple as following steps 1-2-3, and why most of the real magic happens in the messy space in between. He also discusses the hidden forces that sabotage our creativity—dissonance, fear, and expectation escalation—and introduces the five elements of creative rhythm that can help us stay prolific, brilliant, and healthy. You’ll learn why true creative success is about intentional daily practices, not bursts of last-minute inspiration, and how building disciplines now will help you build a body of work you can be proud of. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP. Mentioned in this episode: To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+. THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com.
In this episode of Daily Creative, we dive into the heart of what it means to be a purposeful leader—both in our creative work and our lives. We explore how easy it is to drift away from our core motivations as we advance in our careers, and what it really takes to stay anchored to what matters most. We’re joined by Klaus Kleinfeld, the only Fortune 500 CEO to have led two companies on different continents and author of , and Eric Liedtke, former brand president at Adidas and current brand leader at Under Armour and Unless Collective https://unlesscollective.com. Together, they share powerful stories about leadership, self-awareness, and navigating the internal and external games of success. We explore themes like managing energy (not just time), the critical importance of integrating our personal and professional selves, and how true change starts from within. From a CEO who redefined performance to a creative leader who risked it all to align with his values, this episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone who wants to lead with soul and purpose. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP. Mentioned in this episode: To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+. To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+. THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com.
In this episode of Daily Creative, we sit down with Jesse Cole https://thesavannahbananas.com, the founder of the Savannah Bananas—a phenomenon that's redefining what it means to have fun at a baseball game. We share Jesse’s incredible journey from feeling uninspired in a “dream job” to igniting a revolution in sports entertainment. Bored with the traditional, slow-moving experience of baseball, Jesse asked the pivotal question: “How could we make this fun every time?” We explore how Jesse leaned into bold ideas, ditched the predictable playbook, and replaced blandness with pure creative energy. Drawing inspiration from visionaries like Walt Disney and P.T. Barnum, Jesse made it his mission to build a show fans couldn’t stop talking about—complete with dancing staff, wild rules, and a sense of spectacle that makes every moment count. From the struggles of his early days as a young general manager, turning around a failing team with empty stadiums, to the sold-out, wildly viral success of the Savannah Bananas, Jesse reveals how continuous innovation and fan-first thinking can transform not only an experience, but an entire industry. We go behind the scenes to unearth the Bananas’ creative process, from weekly idea pitching sessions inspired by Saturday Night Live to relentless experimentation and audience feedback. Jesse shares how his commitment to fun, learning from outside his industry, and obsession with new ideas keeps the Bananas experience fresh, exciting, and unforgettable night after night. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVE.APP https://DailyCreative.app. Mentioned in this episode: THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com. To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+. To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+.
In this episode, we dive into how complexity creeps into our systems—whether in software, organizations, or personal leadership. We start by looking at the evolution of Microsoft Word as a case study of feature creep and unintended consequences, asking why more options can end up stifling creativity. We’re joined by ROBERT SIEGEL, Stanford lecturer and author of , who unpacks why today is a uniquely chaotic time for leaders. He explores the cross-pressures leaders face—from balancing execution with innovation, to combining strength with empathy—and what it takes to thrive in turbulent environments. Later, we revisit a powerful 2017 conversation with SETH GODIN, bestselling author and entrepreneur. Seth reframes uncertainty as an inherent feature of modern systems, not a personal failure. He shares his perspective on adapting to continual change, why embracing smaller markets and iterative progress makes us more resilient, and how redefining success helps us stay in the game. Whether you’re leading a team, navigating constant change, or just trying to keep your work meaningful, this episode will give you fresh strategies for thinking and acting systemically. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST VISIT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+. THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW My new book will help you make bravery a habit in your life, your leadership, and your work. Discover how to develop the two qualities that lead to brave action: Optimistic Vision and Agency. Buy The Brave Habit wherever books are sold, or learn more at TheBraveHabit.com http://thebravehabit.com.
In this episode of Daily Creative, we dig into the concept of “lean learning”—the art of cutting through information overload to focus on what matters and take action that truly moves us forward. We kick off with an intriguing story about the Jefferson Memorial’s restoration, showing how asking the right questions unlocks smarter solutions. Joining us is Pat Flynn, entrepreneur and author of , who shares insights from his journey from aspiring architect to online business leader and educator. Together, we explore how to shift from hoarding knowledge to taking deliberate, timely action, supported by real-life examples and practical frameworks. We break down the difference between “just in case” and “just in time” learning, discuss voluntary force functions, and tackle the mental hurdles that keep creatives and leaders stuck in learning mode rather than doing. Pat offers inspiring personal stories—from online experiments to fishing escapades—that bring these principles to life. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ GET FULL INTERVIEWS AND BONUS CONTENT FOR FREE! JUST JOIN THE LIST AT DAILYCREATIVEPLUS.COM https://DailyCreativePlus.com. Mentioned in this episode: To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+. To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit DailyCreativePlus.com http://dailycreativeplus.com and join Daily Creative+.
Ever fantasized about sending a scorched-earth resignation email or confronting that “complicated” colleague head-on? In this episode, we explore the messy realities and hidden costs of revenge in the workplace—and uncover healthier, more powerful strategies for navigating conflict and difficult people. We kick off with a viral real-life resignation email—an employee’s “digital declaration of war”—and ask: Is revenge ever the right answer, or just a tempting fantasy? To help us dig deeper, we welcome leadership expert and executive coach Ryan Leak https://ryanleak.com, who shares research and tactics from his new book . Ryan challenges us to recognize that “complicated” is in the eye of the beholder, and often, the growth opportunity in conflict lies with us. Then, conflict resolution specialist James Kimmel https://www.jameskimmeljr.com takes us into the neuroscience of revenge. We learn just how a grudge can hijack our brain like a drug—triggering temporary pleasure but lasting destruction. James shares practical, evidence-based steps for breaking the cycle and explains why forgiveness isn’t just a virtue but a neurological “wonder drug” for our own well-being. Whether you’re dreaming of a Jerry Maguire exit or just tired of that one messy team dynamic, this episode will help you turn revenge fantasies into opportunities for learning, integrity, and genuine professional growth. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ Mentioned in this episode: GET FREE BONUS CONTENT, FULL INTERVIEWS, AND MORE! To listen to the full interviews from today's episode, as well as receive bonus content and deep dive insights from the episode, visit podcast.toddhenry.com and join Daily Creative+. NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode, we dive deep into what it really means to choose creativity, rather than simply waiting for inspiration to strike. We open with the fascinating origin story of Photoshop—how a grad student’s simple problem-solving evolved, through deliberate choices and refinement, into a revolutionary creative tool. This story sets the stage for this episode’s exploration of how intentional actions, not just spontaneous bursts, drive meaningful creative outcomes. We’re joined by Zorana Ivcevic Pringle, senior research scientist at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and author of the new book, . Zorana shares insights from her 25 years of creativity research, focusing especially on the overlooked emotional aspects of creative work. We discuss why creativity is about continuous, intentional choices—both big and small—that help us make progress, manage our energy, and use our emotions as information. Together, we unpack actionable strategies to deliberately foster creativity in high-pressure environments, the science behind emotional rhythms and productivity, and how tools like generative AI fit into the evolving landscape of creative work. Zorana also offers a unique perspective on matching your creative tasks to your emotional state and daily energy rhythms. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ Get weekly articles to your inbox at BraveFocusedBrilliant.com https://BraveFocusedBrilliant.com. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode, we dive deep into why optimism is far more than just wishful thinking—it's a practical, essential quality for doing brave, creative work and leading others with clarity. We explore how maintaining optimistic vision, especially in uncertain times, can drive teams forward and inspire decisive action. We also welcome special guest Peter Wilken, branding expert and author of and . Peter shares stories from his storied career at the forefront of global advertising and brand consulting, shedding light on the origins and importance of “brand DNA.” Together, we discuss the key components that make great brands resilient, relevant, and unique, and how nurturing breakthrough ideas means protecting them as they grow. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE EPISODE: __ __ GET ARTICLES TO YOUR INBOX EACH WEEK AT BRAVEFOCUSEDBRILLIANT.COM https://BraveFocusedBrilliant.com. Mentioned in this episode: NEW BOOK! THE BRAVE HABIT IS AVAILABLE NOW Rise to important moments in your life and work by developing the habit of bravery. Available in paperback, ebook, or audiobook wherever books are sold. Learn more https://amzn.to/496DxJ1
In this episode, we dig deep into the experience of “stuckness” that every creative pro and leader faces when tackling hard problems. We challenge the typical advice of “just push through,” and instead reveal the true root causes behind creative block. Also, we explore why simply grinding it out doesn’t always work and how a more mindful approach can help us regain momentum. We unpack three main reasons why we often get stuck: lack of definition, loss of motivation, and outdated systems. Through relatable examples and practical questions, we show how redefining the problem, reconnecting with our deeper why, and shaking up our routines can reignite progress. Whether you’re leading a team, working solo, or just trying to unlock new ideas, this episode guides you to reflect, reset, and recharge your creative drive — so you can move forward with purpose. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS FROM THIS EPISODE: __ __ SUBSCRIBE TO ARTICLES LIKE THIS AT BRAVEFOCUSEDBRILLIANT.COM https://bravefocusedbrilliant.com.
In today’s episode of Daily Creative, we dive into the crucial distinction between being a collector and a curator in the digital age. With endless streams of information bombarding us daily, it’s easy to fall into the trap of hoarding inspiration—saving articles, quotes, and ideas without ever transforming them into something meaningful. We explore how true creativity is about making the complicated simple and turning endless noise into valuable insight. We walk through a practical, three-step framework to move from information overload to actionable insight: casting a wide net, curating what matters, and ruthlessly eliminating the rest. By asking ourselves key questions—what is this really, why does it matter to me, and what can I create with it—we can ensure that our collections fuel creativity and purposeful work instead of stifling it. Plus, we share tips for establishing regular curation sessions so these ideas don’t gather digital dust. If you’re ready to stop drowning in information and start producing more focused, meaningful creative work, this episode is for you. FIVE KEY LEARNINGS: __ __ Get full interviews and daily content in the Daily Creative app at DailyCreative.app https://DailyCreative.app Get free weekly articles by email to help you do your best work at BraveFocusedBrilliant.com https://BraveFocusedBrilliant.com.
