Power, purpose, and the American presidency with Jared Cohen
Feb 6, 2024
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In this episode, Jared Cohen, a global affairs expert and author of "Life After Power," shares insights from his extensive career, including his time at the State Department and Google. He discusses the intriguing journeys of former U.S. presidents navigating life after office, spotlighting John Quincy Adams' shift to advocating for abolition. They explore the delicate balance between political power and personal values, plus the psychological challenges leaders face. Through historical examples, Cohen emphasizes the ongoing pursuit of purpose and legacy beyond politics.
Understanding how former presidents navigate the transition from power to purpose in their post-presidential lives is crucial for personal growth and fulfillment.
Finding purposeful endeavors that align with personal values and allow for continuous learning and growth is essential for former presidents as they redefine their identities and seek new ways to make meaningful contributions.
Deep dives
Transitioning from Power to Purpose
The podcast episode explores the post-presidential lives of American presidents and the challenges they face after leaving office. The guest, Jared Cohen, discusses his obsession with American presidents and his fascination with what happens to them after their presidential terms. He highlights the importance of understanding how presidents navigate the transition from power to a new purpose in their lives. Cohen examines the experiences of seven presidents who took different paths in their post-presidential lives, including founding a university, championing abolition, making a successful comeback to the presidency, serving as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, working on humanitarian efforts, creating a never-ending presidency as a former president, and finding a new passion in painting. The podcast delves into the psychological aspects of these transitions and the challenges and opportunities that arise. It also emphasizes the significance of unburdening oneself from the actions of successors and embracing a post-power life that aligns with personal values and brings a sense of purpose and happiness.
The Power and Purpose Dilemma
The podcast examines the tension between power and purpose in the lives of former presidents. It highlights that while the presidency is a position of immense power, it often hinders personal goals and meaningful pursuits. Many presidents, driven by achievement rather than power, find the experience frustrating due to the compromises and deal-making required. After leaving office, they have to recalibrate and discover how to express their motivations and values. The podcast underscores the importance of finding purposeful endeavors that align with personal values and allow for continuous learning and growth. It also explores the psychological impact of leaving power behind and the challenges presidents face as they redefine their identities and seek new ways to make meaningful contributions.
Bouncing Back and Bouncing Forward
The podcast discusses the journeys of several former presidents as they navigate life after power. It highlights the initial challenges they face, including a sense of loss, broken relationships, and lack of purpose. However, many of them find resilience and discover new callings that enrich their lives. The podcast explores the stories of presidents who embraced causes and missions that found them, often in unexpected ways. It emphasizes the importance of patience, letting transitions play out, and being open to new paths. It also reflects on the idea that bouncing forward, rather than just bouncing back, can lead to even greater impact and personal fulfillment in the post-power phase of life.
Reflections on Legacy and Transition
The podcast delves into the complexities of legacy and transition in the lives of former presidents. It discusses the challenges of letting go of power and detaching from the decisions and actions of successors. It highlights the psychological struggle many ex-presidents face as they navigate the post-presidential phase of their lives. The podcast explores the balance between reflection on one's legacy and living in the present, emphasizing the importance of investing in relationships, embracing life's chapters, and finding purpose and meaning beyond the trappings of power. It also raises questions about the true nature of power, the revealing or concealing effects it has on individuals, and the search for happiness and fulfillment in life's later stages.
Jared Cohen is a history buff with a career that boasts its own remarkable story. From the State Department to founding Jigsaw at Google to leading global affairs and innovation at Goldman Sachs, Jared has worked with the world’s top leaders to tackle humanity’s biggest problems. His work in international problem-solving also translates into a passion for U.S. history. His new book, Life After Power, is a fascinating exploration about what seven American presidents did after leaving the most influential job in the world. 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. Life After Power is out February 13, 2024. Transcripts for ReThinking are available at go.ted.com/RWAGscripts
