Michael J. Gelb: Get your best ideas by walking

What if you could get your best ideas by walking — and transform every step into a tool for creativity, vitality, and leadership? In this episode, Michael J. Gelb, the world's leading authority on genius thinking and innovative leadership, reveals how walking, mind mapping, and embodied awareness can radically enhance your personal and organisational performance. Host Brendan McGurgan reunites with Michael for a rich, wide-ranging conversation that blends neuroscience, creativity, mindfulness, and practical leadership insight. From seven days with Dr. Joe Dispenza, to the origins of mind mapping with Tony Buzan, to the revolutionary principles behind Michael's new book Walking Well, this episode is a masterclass in elevating how you think, lead, and live. Episode Highlights: Why walking is the most overlooked tool for creativity, clarity, and emotional resilience The simple (but genius) sequence that transformed every step Michael takes How to unlearn early conditioning around posture, "walking like a man/lady," and rigid movement Why most people unconsciously brace their ankles — and how releasing that habit eliminates pain and increases energy How mind mapping has helped Michael manifest goals for decades and why it works so powerfully for leaders Inside Michael's week-long immersion with Dr. Joe Dispenza — and how state change accelerates growth The connection between curiosity (Kuriosita), embodiment, and scaling with purpose Why barefoot walking, grounding, and plantigrade movement strengthen the entire kinetic chain How leaders can use creative practices like walking and mind mapping to think better and lead better Meet Michael J. Gelb Michael J. Gelb is the world's leading authority on the application of genius thinking to personal and organisational development. A pioneer in creative thinking, executive coaching, and innovative leadership, Michael has worked with global clients including Microsoft, Nike, Genentech, KPMG, Merck, and YPO. A member of Marshall Goldsmith's 100 COACHES, Michael is also a Senior Fellow at The Center for Humanistic Management and a renowned keynote speaker. Honored as "Brain of the Year," his work sits alongside recipients such as Stephen Hawking and Edward de Bono. He is the author of 17 books—including the international bestseller How to Think Like Leonardo Da Vinci—with over one million copies sold worldwide. Key Topics Covered → How walking transforms creativity, posture, and wellbeing → The neuroscience behind movement-induced insight → Universal principles from Joe Dispenza and how they apply to leadership → The art and science of mind mapping for strategic clarity → Releasing unconscious tension to reduce pain and boost energy → Why curiosity fuels purposeful scaling → Embodied presence as a leadership advantage → The power of lifelong learning and never resting on your laurels Who Should Listen This episode is essential for SME founders, leaders, and executives who want to think more creatively, access deeper insight, and lead with greater vitality. Anyone seeking practical tools to elevate focus, reduce tension, unlock innovation, and scale with purpose will benefit from Michael's wisdom. About Michael J. Gelb Michael J. Gelb is a globally recognised author, speaker, and leadership pioneer whose work blends creativity, embodiment, and organisational innovation. His books—translated into 25 languages—include How to Think Like Leonardo Da Vinci, Innovate Like Edison, The Art of Connection, and his latest, Walking Well, co-authored with Bruce Fertman. Michael helps leaders think more clearly, move more freely, and unlock their full human potential. Website: https://michaelgelb.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-gelb   About ScaleX™ and Simple Scaling ScaleX™ Insider is brought to you by Simple Scaling — creators of the ScaleX™ Accelerator Programme. A 12-month journey for ambitious SME leaders combining strategy, mindset work, and peer support to break through growth plateaus. Host: Brendan McGurgan Website: simplescaling.com Subscribe & Listen Watch on YouTube: Simple Scaling Channel Listen on Apple Podcasts: ScaleX Insider Listen on Spotify: ScaleX Insider