News•Apr 7, 2026
Add a Familiar and a Little Weird
Michael Bungay Stanier reflects on two decades of mastermind groups, emphasizing that mixing people who feel familiar with those who seem a little weird drives both personal happiness and professional success. He describes his current circles—author collectives, writing squads, thinking groups, and a 400‑member community called The Conspiracy—where the familiar/weird tension is most evident. The piece argues that hiring for "culture add" rather than "culture fit" mirrors this principle, encouraging organizations to seek diverse perspectives. Ultimately, surrounding yourself with a balanced blend of similarity and novelty amplifies growth and creativity.
