The Curious Advantage Podcast S2 Ep1: #14 Curiosity & Serendipity with Dr Christian Busch (Associate Professor of Applied Management and Organization, USC Marshall School of Business)
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Sep 8, 2020 Dr. Christian Busch, an academic at NYU and LSE and author of ‘The Serendipity Mindset,’ discusses the intriguing interplay between curiosity and serendipity. He shares insights on how fostering unexpected encounters can lead to innovation and success in organizations. The conversation highlights the importance of open-ended questioning and the right mindset to navigate opportunities. Busch also emphasizes building community ties to enhance curiosity and create meaningful connections, making clear that proactive engagement can revolutionize our approach to luck.
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Potato Washing Machine
- Chinese farmers used washing machines to wash potatoes, which broke the machines.
- The company added a dirt filter and marketed it as a potato washing machine, embracing the unexpected need.
Project Funerals
- A Dutch company held "project funerals" for failed ideas to learn from mistakes.
- One funeral led to a serendipitous discovery, repurposing failed window technology for solar energy.
Conversation Hooks
- Avoid narrowly defining yourself; offer multiple conversation hooks.
- Instead of just stating your profession, share diverse interests to increase serendipitous connections.
