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We know that design and innovation require \u2018outside-the-box\u2019 thinking, risk-taking, radical collaboration, the questioning of assumptions and a \u2018fail-fast-learn-fast\u2019 mentality. However, while we acknowledge these elements of an innovation culture, there\u2019s often an insufficient focus on setting up the \u2018foundations\u2019 within a team to make this a reality. This presentation focuses on one critical foundation \u2013 psychological safety. It explores the connection between a culture of psychological safety and creating new and valued outputs, and in particular, the role that leaders of design teams play in creating a culture that empowers designers to best exhibit their design skills.\n\nDesigners and designer leaders alike are invited to question their own role in creating psychological safety for others. This presentation offers a brief background on the relevant research before outlining what this might look like in a \u2018typical\u2019 design team and process. I then provide a starting point for discussing how design leaders can better create spaces that empower their teams to feel safe to voice their opinions and be valued for their diversity \u2013 both of which are crucial in establishing a culture of genuine innovation.