We’re wired to add, but what happens when we subtract? - Leidy Klotz

Why do we instinctively add when the better answer might be less?

In this episode of the Truth Works Podcast, we sit down with Leidy Klotz—behavioral scientist, engineer, and author of Subtract—to explore why subtraction is one of the most underused tools in problem-solving, design, and even life itself. From ancient architecture to modern innovation, Leidy unpacks the hidden bias that keeps us adding complexity instead of removing it.

We dive into how this instinct shapes everything from personal decisions to global policy, and how changing it could transform the way we think, create, and lead.

If you’re addicted to doing more, building more, and thinking more—this episode might just shift your perspective forever.

Topics:

1. Subtraction for solutions: Using subtraction to improve outcomes, inspired by a Lego bridge.

2. Default to adding: Humans add to show competence, like bowerbirds building nests.

3. Bureaucratic over-addition: Excessive additions cause inefficiency, e.g., 60 sign-offs.

4. Effective subtraction: Cases like Capital One task removal, PBS dropping reviews.

5. Friction reduction via subtraction: Simplifying processes, e.g., Google’s interview limit.

6. Netflix’s subtraction strategy: Spinning off DVDs to focus on streaming.

7. Cutting meetings: Reducing meetings, e.g., Stanford’s quarterly shift, Asana’s reset.

8. Subtraction challenges for juniors: Early-career struggle to subtract, need subtle work display.

9. Environment shaping behavior: How environments impact competence, connection, agency.

10. Reducing cognitive load: Filtering info, questioning outdated mental models.