Innovation Is Mostly Recombination

Why do the biggest investing breakthroughs come not from complexity, but from simplicity and why is that so hard for smart people to accept? In this episode, I talk with Britt Harris, one of the most experienced institutional investors in the world, about what really drives long-term investment success inside large pools of capital. Britt explains why simplicity beats complexity, how scale creates negotiating power and structural advantage, and why engagement — not intelligence — is the true separator of performance. We discuss how innovation in investing is usually recombination, not invention, why empowered teams outperform credentialed ones, and how leaders can systematically create cultures that compound.

Highlights:

• Why simplicity is the highest form of reliability
• How scale changes negotiating power and opportunity access
• The “four-minute mile” effect in organizational change
• Why fully engaged people outperform smarter but disengaged peers
• The 30–50–20 rule of engagement inside organizations
• Why innovation is usually recombination, not invention
• How to avoid complexity syndrome in investing and management
• Why keeping your word is the foundation of trust and leadership
• How empowerment is earned, not granted
• Why culture compounds faster than strategy

Guest Bio:

Britt Harris is a veteran institutional investor and executive who has served as Chief Investment Officer for some of the largest pools of capital in the world, including the University of Texas Investment Management Company (UTIMCO), the Texas Permanent School Fund, and the Texas Teachers Retirement System. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he has overseen and advised on portfolios totaling hundreds of billions of dollars and is widely recognized for his contributions to institutional investing, governance, and organizational leadership.

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LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/britt-harris-6678477/

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Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, legal, or tax advice. Nothing in this episode should be interpreted as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to participate in any investment strategy. All opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Weisburd Capital. Participants may hold positions or have financial interests in the companies, funds, or investments discussed. Any references to specific investments are for illustrative purposes only. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Any third-party data or opinions have not been independently verified. Listeners should conduct their own research and consult their own advisors before making any investment decisions.

(0:00) Introduction (2:27) Overcoming impossibilities and full engagement in organizations (6:38) Empowerment and success in the workplace (12:06) Innovation in financial instruments and trends (16:12) Complexity syndrome and the importance of simplicity in investments (17:32) Closing remarks