Meet Diane Hamilton | Keynote Speaker, Curiosity Expert

We had the good fortune of connecting with Diane Hamilton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Diane, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I initially set out to build a career as a speaker and consultant, but by chance, I landed a gig as a nationally syndicated radio show host. Over the years, I interviewed thousands of inspiring and highly curious individuals, including billionaires, CEOs, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders. Those conversations were life-changing—they gave me a front-row seat to the mindset, behaviors, and decisions that drive success. That experience changed the trajectory of my business.

Those individuals made me want to inspire curiosity in others. That is when I decided to write my book, Cracking the Curiosity Code. The book was also influenced by my doctoral dissertation, where I studied emotional intelligence and its impact on performance. That research sparked my fascination with personality-based challenges and how they shape behaviors at work and beyond.

As I explored the topic of curiosity more deeply, I noticed a critical gap: while many were talking about the importance of curiosity, no one was addressing what inhibits it. How can you improve something if you don’t know what’s blocking it? That question became the foundation for creating the Curiosity Code Index (CCI), the first and only assessment designed to pinpoint the specific factors that inhibit curiosity. Developing the CCI was a turning point for me. It transformed my business from focusing solely on speaking and writing to equipping leaders, HR professionals, and coaches with a practical tool to ignite curiosity in their organizations.

After seeing how the CCI helped individuals and organizations break free from the status quo, I wanted to share what many years of research had taught me about creating a culture of curiosity at work. That led to my latest book, Curiosity Unleashed, which shows people how to overcome the factors that often keep curiosity locked away.

This journey has led to some truly meaningful milestones. The CCI and my books have become required reading at universities like the Forbes School of Business & Technology, where they’re helping students and professionals understand how curiosity drives engagement, critical thinking, and leadership. I’ve also had the honor of being recognized on the Thinkers50 Radar list, which highlights the world’s top leadership minds. My work has taken me around the globe, from speaking and training to certifying professionals in using the CCI to build cultures of curiosity within their organizations.

Today, my business is focused on spreading these ideas through speaking engagements, certifications, and training programs. I’ve seen firsthand how curiosity can transform the way we think, work, and lead. What started as a simple idea for a book has grown into a mission to change lives and reshape the future of work.

What should our readers know about your business?
It wasn’t easy, but I like a good challenge. Whenever I didn’t know something, I leaned into my curiosity—I found someone to ask, took a course, or figured it out along the way. That approach taught me I’m capable of far more than I often give myself credit for. My brand and story are about embracing curiosity, pushing past limits, and using every question as a stepping stone to growth. It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about being willing to explore and adapt, no matter how daunting the path may seem.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, I’d want to show them the beauty of Arizona. We’d start with hiking—if they’re into it—exploring some of my favorite trails and taking in the stunning views. Sedona and the Grand Canyon would be must-sees, and since I have my Labrador, Luna, she’d join us on the adventure. We’d stop for lunch at a dog-friendly spot, sitting outside to enjoy the scenery while Luna happily tags along. On the way back into town, I’d take them to a funky little winery I love—not for the wine, since I don’t really drink, but for their cheese trays and outdoor space. It’s a great place to throw the ball for Luna, hang out with other dogs, and finish the day roasting s’mores over their fire pit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a shoutout to the thousands of incredible people I had the privilege of interviewing on my radio show. Each of them shared valuable insights and experiences that shaped my perspective and reinforced the importance of curiosity in everything we do. Their stories and wisdom not only made the show what it was but also helped me grow personally and professionally. I owe a lot to those conversations and the amazing individuals who trusted me with their stories.

Website: https://drdianehamilton.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdianehamilton/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdianehamilton/

Twitter: https://x.com/DrDianeHamilton

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drdianehamilton/

Youtube: https://youtube.com/drdianehamilton

Image Credits
The pictures are all taken by me.