Dr. David Putrino: Can We Become More Creative?

This episode of the Keiser Human Performance Podcast features Dr. David Putrino discussing the science and application of creativity, explaining that true creativity is the ability to consistently produce something both new and useful. He breaks down how creativity is influenced by brain function, particularly the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neural connections, and introduces the idea that highly creative individuals tend to have more “over-inclusive” brains that allow for broader connections between ideas. The conversation emphasizes that creativity is not fixed but can be developed through a combination of aptitude, process, and environment, with factors like motivation, purpose, and engagement playing a critical role. Dr. Putrino highlights the importance of exposure to novel experiences — such as travel or time in nature — which can significantly boost creative thinking, and explains concepts like “soft fascination,” where relaxed, low-effort environments help the brain solve problems subconsciously. The discussion also touches on the nuanced role of psychedelics in creativity, noting both their potential and limitations. Beyond theory, Dr. Putrino shares real-world applications of innovation in his work, including brain-computer interfaces that allow ALS patients to control devices with their thoughts and virtual reality tools used to reduce chronic pain. He also discusses his collaborations with elite athletes and organizations, exploring how top performers manage stress and how creativity and innovation can be applied in high-performance environments. Overall, the episode underscores that creativity is a trainable skill shaped by mindset, environment, and experience, rather than an innate trait reserved for a select few.