Power, purpose, and the American presidency with Jared Cohen (from ReThinking with Adam Grant)
Feb 17, 2025
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In this engaging discussion, Jared Cohen, author of "Life After Power" and former State Department and Google executive, delves into the post-presidency lives of seven U.S. presidents. He shares insights on the psychological challenges they face transitioning away from power and explores the unique paths of figures like John Quincy Adams, who fought against slavery after his presidency. The conversation also touches on the quest for legacy, the impact of presidential advice, and the universal pursuit of purpose beyond achievements.
Many former U.S. presidents confront a profound loss of purpose and identity after leaving office, often leading to health and relationship struggles.
George W. Bush represents a unique case of adapting post-presidency by embracing hobbies and personal fulfillment, highlighting the importance of living in the moment.
Deep dives
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Jared Cohen's Journey with U.S. Presidents
Jared Cohen has cultivated a lifelong fascination with U.S. presidents, starting from his childhood inspirations. His obsession deepened as he explored the significant transitions they face after leaving office and how these moments shape their subsequent identities. Cohen's early work examined the abrupt power shifts when presidents die in office, leading him to ponder what happens to those who survive after their term ends. As he investigates these transitions, he finds that many presidents grapple with their diminished status and sense of purpose once removed from the pinnacle of political power.
Lessons from Post-Presidency
Many U.S. presidents struggle significantly after leaving office, often facing health issues, broken relationships, and a loss of purpose. Besides coping with a stark change in influence, former presidents like John Quincy Adams took on humble roles in the House of Representatives, eventually finding greater purpose through service. This reflects a universal theme that transitions in life—such as moving from a position of power to a more restrained role—can offer unexpected opportunities for growth and contribution. Adams, in particular, transitioned from a disappointing presidency to becoming a leading abolitionist, showing how one can influence history even at a lower station.
George W. Bush's Unique Post-Presidency
George W. Bush stands out among former presidents for his ability to move on from his past without dwelling on legacy or guilt. Unlike his peers, who often faced challenges in adjusting to life after the presidency, Bush has embraced hobbies like painting, providing him a fresh outlet for self-expression. His approach contrasts significantly with the more common struggle seen among former leaders, as he focuses on family connections and living in the present rather than worrying about public perception. Bush's story implies that personal fulfillment can be attained through authentic relationships and by pursuing activities that bring joy rather than a fixation on reputation.
What do the most powerful people in the world do after they've achieved success? Jared Cohen is a history buff and a presidential historian. His latest book, “Life After Power,” is a fascinating exploration about what seven American presidents did after leaving the most influential job in the world. In this episode of ReThinking with Adam Grant, another podcast in the TED Audio Collective, Adam and Jared discuss the psychology of the founding fathers, debate the pros and cons of pursuing a legacy, and share what these historic figures can teach us all about pursuing and finding purpose.