Creative Confidence Podcast Leadership Philosophies in Practice & Building Creative Teams: Q&A with Mike Peng
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Jan 21, 2026 In this engaging discussion, Mike Peng, CEO of IDEO and a veteran in design leadership, dives into the essence of modern creative leadership. He explores how to foster trust in resistant teams, emphasizing empathy as a tool for converting skeptics. Mike shares valuable lessons on the importance of psychological safety and building strong, complementary teams. He also highlights how failure has shaped his approach, encouraging leaders to embrace small wins and seek inspiration from everyday sources to elevate creative excellence.
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Rice Bag Empathy Exercise In Tokyo
- In Tokyo, older male participants wore a 10kg rice bag to simulate carrying a baby.
- The experience changed how they perceived elevator access and stroller navigation in stations.
Silence Is A Leadership Failure
- Failure often traced back to not speaking up or suppressing disagreement.
- Cultivate listening and encourage people to voice strong points of view early.
Tennis Backhand That Cost Confidence
- As a teen tennis player, Mike switched a strong two-handed backhand to a one-handed one under his father's advice.
- The change reduced his confidence and performance and became a lasting lesson about listening and strengths.