Founder Fundamentals EP 01: The Ultimate Guide to Creative Problem Solving with Leo Chan

In today’s fast-paced world, innovation is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a necessity. Without a unique approach, success can feel like sailing without a compass. That’s where creative problem-solving comes into play, transforming challenges into opportunities and unlocking innovations. In the first session of the 2025 Founder FundamentalsLeo Chan, Chief Innovator Igniter at Abound Innovation, shared his expert insights on unlocking innovation. With over 20 years of experience, a portfolio of U.S. patents, and a passion for sparking creativity, Leo revealed how anyone can rethink problem-solving and become a true innovator. In this blog post, we’ll explore his 6 proven strategies for creative problem-solving and how you can apply them to drive innovation in your own work.

Creative Problem Solving unlocks innovation

The Essence of Creative Problem Solving

Creative problem-solving isn’t just a method—it’s a mindset. Leo emphasizes that innovation isn’t reserved for a lucky few with fancy titles. It’s a skill we all have, just waiting to be unlocked. Through tools like LEGO® Serious Play®, he shows how hands-on, interactive approaches can unleash our creative problem-solving potential. 

6 Strategies for Creative Problem Solving

  1. Embrace Diversity of Thought: Innovation thrives when different perspectives come together. Leo highlights the importance of welcoming ideas that challenge the norm, creating a richer pool of solutions to draw from. 
  2. Foster a Creative Environment: Surround yourself with things that spark creativity. Whether it’s your workspace or the people you brainstorm with, every detail should encourage out-of-the-box thinking. 
  3. Prototype Rapidly: Don’t let fear of failure hold you back from channeling your inner inventor. Leo’s use of LEGO® in problem-solving shows the power of rapid prototyping. By building, testing, and rebuilding, ideas grow without getting stuck in the pursuit of perfection
  4. Think in Systems: Problems rarely exist in isolation—they’re part of bigger ecosystems. Approaching solutions with a systems mindset helps you understand ripple effects and unintended consequences, leading to more sustainable innovations. 
  5. Network Relentlessly: True creativity often happens at the intersection of different fields. Networking, both inside and outside your industry, can spark unexpected insights and fresh ideas. 
  6. Learn Endlessly: A hunger for knowledge and the humility to admit what you don’t know can drive you toward innovative solutions. Curiosity is, without a doubt, the innovator’s greatest fuel. 

Tapping Into Your Innovative Potential 

What makes Leo’s take on innovation and problem-solving so compelling is his firm belief that creativity is for everyone. Innovation isn’t some exclusive club that requires special skills or natural talent. It’s a process anyone can tap into—all it takes is an open mind, a willingness to learn from failure, and a commitment to keep growing. 

Leo’s approach challenges us to rethink how we face obstacles. Instead of backing down, we’re encouraged to lean into challenges, use them as stepping stones, and ultimately reshape the way we approach our goals. 

Unlock your innovative potential and tackle challenges with creativity and confidence. Be the innovator the world needs — start today.

About Founder Fundamentals

Founder Fundamentals is a 12-week workshop series by YSpace and Markham Small Business Centre (MSBC), designed to equip you with essential entrepreneurial skills like business planning, bootstrapping, and Shopify setup. Attend 9+ workshops to earn a Certificate of Recognition and take the first step toward entrepreneurial success!

About the Speaker

Leo is the Chief Innovation Igniter of Abound Innovation Inc. where he helps rising professionals and leaders create a future by learning to innovate. He's a heart-first entrepreneur who believes everyone can be an innovator. An innovator himself, with 55 US patents and 20+ years of experience, Leo has guided organizations like Chick-fil-A to unleash the innovative potential of their employees.

Leo’s friendly, joyful and enthusiastic approach makes the journey to innovation exciting and attainable. He’s also a LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® trainer & facilitator who believes unlocking innovation takes new approaches.

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