Creative Confidence Podcast 3 Leadership Philosophies to Inspire Creative Excellence: Mike Peng
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Dec 4, 2025 In this conversation, Mike Peng, CEO of IDEO, shares his journey from neuroscience to design and global leadership. He discusses three impactful leadership philosophies: 'fewer but better,' personal monopoly, and combinatorial creativity. Mike emphasizes the importance of humility and healthy friction in fostering creativity. He highlights how leaders should guide their teams by setting direction and creating conditions for success. Additionally, Mike provides insight into maintaining inspiration and building diverse, innovative teams.
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From Cognitive Science To IDEO
- Mike describes switching from pre-med to cognitive science and discovering interdisciplinary curiosity at Berkeley.
- That curiosity led him from Johnson & Johnson into IDEO and eventually to starting IDEO Tokyo and Moon Creative Lab.
Leadership As Choreography
- Leading a studio requires blending P&L, client work, and talent growth into one orchestration role.
- Mike compares this to choreography where the leader sets the dance, not every step.
Choose A Few Clear Priorities
- Pick fewer priorities and do them extremely well to create focus and impact.
- Share your personal philosophies to help people understand why you make decisions and invite better suggestions.