When I’m not getting lost in a pile of books, I’m often found diving into documentaries that spark curiosity and challenge conventional thinking. These films are a treasure trove for anyone looking to ignite their innovative spirit, understand the digital revolution, or simply enjoy some genius storytelling. Here are my top 10 picks, perfect for a bit of downtime or a team inspiration session…

1. The Creative Brain: A fascinating exploration of creativity featuring neuroscientist David Eagleman, this documentary dives into how the brain generates ideas and what we can do to maximize our creative potential. It’s a brilliant reminder that creativity is a skill anyone can cultivate, not just a divine gift.

2. Inside Bill’s Brain: Decoding Bill Gates This three-part series offers a deep dive into the mind of one of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs. It’s not just about tech, but also about thinking big and daring to dream of solving humanity’s grand challenges. It’s a masterclass in systems thinking and perseverance.

3. The Great Hack: If you’re interested in data, privacy, and the impact of technology on democracy, this documentary is a must-watch. It uncovers how data was weaponized in the 2016 U.S. election, raising questions about ethics, digital privacy, and the future of online interaction.

4. Abstract: The Art of Design: This series gives you a peek into the creative processes of designers across various disciplines. From architecture to shoe design, it’s a visual feast that illustrates how innovation is often born at the intersection of art, science, and sheer audacity.

5. General Magic: A cult favorite, this documentary chronicles the story of a 1990s startup that invented the first smartphone but failed commercially. It’s a poignant lesson in the importance of timing, perseverance, and how sometimes being too early is the same as being wrong.

6. The Social Dilemma: A provocative look at how social media manipulates our behavior. It’s a stark warning and a call to action for anyone working in tech or marketing. Watching this will definitely make you rethink the digital tools we use and the ethical responsibilities we have.

7. Jiro Dreams of Sushi: More than just a documentary about sushi, this is a profound meditation on mastery, dedication, and the pursuit of perfection. Jiro Ono’s relentless quest to make the best sushi in the world offers inspiration to anyone in any field who is striving to perfect their craft.

8. Print the Legend: This one is for those fascinated by disruptive technologies. It tells the story of the rise of 3D printing companies like MakerBot and Formlabs and captures the startup culture, highlighting both the glory and the grind of being at the forefront of innovation.

9. Lo and Behold: Reveries of the Connected World: Werner Herzog’s quirky yet profound look at the internet age is both a love letter and a cautionary tale about technology’s pervasive impact on human life. It’s the sort of documentary that leaves you pondering the future and our place in it long after the credits roll.

10. The Defiant Ones: An inspiring look at how Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine came from different backgrounds to build an empire together. It’s a masterclass in collaboration, spotting trends, and knowing when to take a risk. Also, the soundtrack is phenomenal—a little inspiration for your ears too.

I promise you these films are far more than just great viewing. They’re a springboard for creative thought, a little fuel for the innovation engine in all of us. Grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to see the world differently.