The Strategy Skills Podcast: Strategy | Leadership | Critical Thinking | Problem-Solving 595: What AI Can’t Replace: Former design lead at IDEO on Safe Danger, Trust, and the Future of Work
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Oct 20, 2025 In a thought-provoking conversation, Ben Swire, former design lead at IDEO and founder of Make Believe Works, unpacks how psychological safety can be intentionally designed in teams. He contrasts experiential culture with traditional methods, emphasizing that trust grows through practice, not just theory. Ben introduces the concept of 'safe danger'—a balance of safety and risk-taking essential for innovation. He also discusses how AI enhances human capabilities rather than replacing them, urging leaders to leverage empathy and creativity in an AI-driven future.
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Make Trust Experiential Not Theoretical
- Stop handing out bullet points and create spaces where people practice trust and vulnerability.
- Ben Swire recommends experiential learning over instructional checklists to make behaviors stick.
Safety And Challenge Work Together
- Safe danger is the emotional sweet spot where safety and challenge coexist to enable authentic participation.
- Ben Swire says safety gives footing while danger gives movement and both are needed for growth.
Superhero Origin Stories Open Teams
- In a workshop participants turned emotional strengths into superhero comic origins to lower guards and surface values.
- The playful twist made executives share personal family stories that deepened team connection.
