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.
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Presidential Obsession
Jared Cohen's interest in presidents began at age eight with a rhyming book, The Buck Stops Here.
This sparked a lifelong fascination, leading to his book Life After Power.
insights INSIGHT
Post-Presidential Challenges
Few presidents enjoy a positive post-presidency, often grappling with unresolved issues and lacking purpose.
Cohen's book focuses on seven presidents who represent different post-presidency archetypes.
question_answer ANECDOTE
John Quincy Adams' Redemption
John Quincy Adams, after a disappointing presidency, found renewed purpose fighting for abolition in the House.
His advocacy, though from a lower political position, significantly impacted the anti-slavery movement.
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A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President
Candice Millard
This book by Candice Millard delves into the life and assassination of James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States. It highlights the dramatic events surrounding his death, including the archaic medical treatments that ultimately led to his demise. The narrative also explores the broader context of the time, including the national mood post-Civil War, the political struggles within Garfield's administration, and the roles of key figures such as Alexander Graham Bell and Vice President Chester Arthur. The book is praised for its engaging storytelling and meticulous research.
The Accidental President
Harry S. Truman and the Four Months That Changed the World
A.J. Baime
The Accidental President by A.J. Baime is a captivating biography that focuses on Harry S. Truman's first 120 days as President of the United States. Chosen as FDR’s fourth-term vice president due to his work ethic, good judgment, and lack of enemies, Truman was thrust into the presidency after FDR’s sudden death. During his initial months, Truman oversaw significant historical events such as the founding of the United Nations, the fall of Berlin, victory at Okinawa, firebombings in Tokyo, the first atomic explosion, the Nazi surrender, the liberation of concentration camps, the Potsdam Conference, and the controversial decision to bomb Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The book provides a detailed and nuanced account of Truman’s leadership during this tumultuous period, using sources like official documents, journal entries, and personal correspondence to bring the story to life.
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.
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