Why Subtraction Unlocks Better Ideas with Dr. Leidy Klotz #359?
Description
The Untapped Science of Less: Why Subtraction Unlocks Better Ideas with Dr. Leidy Klotz #359
In this episode of the SuperCreativity Podcast, James Taylor speaks with Dr. Leidy Klotz, engineer, designer, behavioral scientist, and author of Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less. Klotz reveals why our brains are biased toward adding complexity—and why the smartest solution is often to remove, reduce, or simplify.
From Lego bridges and Jenga-inspired problem solving to organizational strategy and sustainability, Klotz shows how subtraction can fuel innovation, improve decision-making, and create more meaningful lives. Learn why leaders struggle to showcase competence by doing less, how subtraction improves team morale, and why sustainability, education, and design sectors are embracing the power of removal.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by too many meetings, endless features, or bloated systems, this conversation will inspire you to see less as progress, not sacrifice.
Soundbytes:
“Our first instinct is to add—but the real breakthrough often comes when we subtract.”
“Subtraction isn’t about less for the sake of less—it’s about clearing space for what really matters.”
“Innovation isn’t always building more. Sometimes, it’s about removing the unnecessary.”
“Great design, great strategy, and even great lives are defined not by what we add, but by what we choose to take away.”
“Subtraction feels counterintuitive, but it’s the hidden lever for creativity and progress.”
Takeaways
Our brains default to adding, not subtracting — but subtractive thinking can create elegant and effective solutions.
Visible subtraction matters — leaders must model it for teams to feel empowered to simplify.
Sustainability thrives on subtraction — less packaging, less waste, less complexity equals more progress.
Subtraction boosts morale — removing tasks or meetings frees up mental energy and creativity.
Simple rituals help — swap to-do lists for stop-doing lists, or remove one recurring meeting to reclaim focus.
In his upcoming book, James Taylor delves into the transformative concept of SuperCreativity™—the art of amplifying your creative potential through collaboration with both humans and machines. Drawing from his experiences speaking in over 30 countries, James combines compelling stories, case studies, and practical strategies to help readers unlock innovation and harness the power of AI-driven tools. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their creativity and thrive in the modern age of human-machine collaboration.
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United States
