Dr. Diane Hamilton is a celebrated author, researcher, and thought leader whose groundbreaking work has transformed how we understand curiosity in business and personal development. From her journey as an educator and MBA program chair to creating the Curiosity Code Index and publishing multiple books, she has dedicated her career to helping individuals and organizations thrive through curiosity. Featured on Humans of Fuzia, her story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the belief that curiosity is the key to unlocking growth in every sphere of life.
Q: What inspired you to start your journey with curiosity research and writing?
Dr. Diane Hamilton: I had been teaching for many years, working with everyone from introductory college students to doctoral students. Later, I started a nationally syndicated radio show where I interviewed amazing people who were so curious about the world. I wanted my students to have that same spark. That inspired me to write my first book on curiosity and develop the Curiosity Code Index — the first assessment of its kind to measure and address the factors that inhibit curiosity. This tool has since changed how individuals and organizations understand and cultivate curiosity.
Q: What challenges did you face while creating the Curiosity Code Index and building your brand?
Dr. Diane Hamilton: One of the biggest challenges was the technical side of creating the assessment. I tried hiring statisticians, but many defaulted to old ways of thinking. I wanted something entirely new, so I had to get curious myself and learn statistics I didn’t enjoy. That was tough but rewarding. Later, COVID created challenges for speakers and consultants, but like many, I adapted by moving into virtual spaces until things began to recover.
Q: Do you work solo or with a team to expand your impact globally?
Dr. Diane Hamilton: I’m primarily a solopreneur. I created all the training and material myself, but since I can’t be everywhere, I certify coaches and consultants worldwide to deliver the Curiosity Code Index. That way, organizations everywhere can benefit, even if I’m not directly involved.
Q: What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
Dr. Diane Hamilton: When I first entered the workplace, there were hardly any women in leadership, sometimes not even women in the field at all. Things have changed a lot since then, and I’ve been fortunate to work under some excellent women leaders. In the U.S., opportunities are increasing, but challenges remain — pay gaps, career slowdowns after maternity leave, and cultural perceptions. Still, things are improving. For example, my daughter will soon have her second child and is getting six months off, compared to the six weeks I once had. Progress is happening, but there’s still room for improvement.
Q: What message would you like to share with aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs?
Dr. Diane Hamilton: Women shouldn’t feel pressured to act like men in leadership. Our strengths — empathy, nurturing, collaboration — are powerful, not weaknesses. At the same time, we need to stop diminishing ourselves by over-apologizing or downplaying our abilities. Supporting each other is crucial, too, because historically women have had to compete for limited roles. As opportunities grow, collaboration will take us further.
Q: How do you personally define success?
Dr. Diane Hamilton: Success isn’t static — it keeps moving. You reach one goal, and then you must set another, harder one. Many people stop when they hit one milestone, but that’s when you risk stagnation. To me, success is about constantly pushing boundaries, surrounding yourself with people smarter than you, and staying uncomfortable enough to grow. Life is about living, not just existing.
“We grow by staying curious, setting bold goals, and supporting one another — that’s how we truly thrive.” – Dr. Diane Hamilton
Connect with Dr. Diane Hamilton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdianehamilton/
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