How Creativity and Curiosity Drive Team Growth with Van Lai-DuMone

In this episode of The Future of Teamwork, Dane Groeneveld sits down with Van Lai-DuMone, founder and CEO of worksmart Advantage and author of What If Pigs Can Fly? to explore how creativity can transform the workplace. Dane and Van explore the power of divergent and convergent thinking, how to build psychological safety through play, and why the “worst idea ever” might be the best place to start. If you're looking for practical tools to boost innovation and connection in your team, this conversation is filled with insights you’ll want to take back to your next meeting.

Key Takeaways:

00:00 Introduction to the Future of Teamwork Podcast

01:47 Meet the Guest: Van Lai-DuMone Background and Journey

04:07 The Birth of worksmart Advantage

07:34 Creativity in the Workplace: Tools and Techniques

11:28 The Power of Divergent and Convergent Thinking

12:42 Building Trust and Psychological Safety

17:14 The Role of Creativity in Team Development

24:38 The Importance of Creative Tools

25:14 Embracing Creative Chaos

26:15 Creativity in Everyday Work

27:04 Creative Exercises for Meetings

28:09 The Value of Process Over Results

28:34 Creativity Across Different Functions

29:41 Transitioning with Creativity

31:09 Introducing the Book: What If Pigs Can Fly?

31:45 Framework for Following Curiosity

39:37 Applying Creativity in Personal Life

42:42 Final Thoughts on Creativity and Curiosity