Worklife with Adam Grant ReThinking: Talking people out of hate with Daryl Davis and former neo-Nazi Jeff Schoep
65 snips
Nov 18, 2025 
In this insightful discussion, Daryl Davis, a Black jazz musician and activist, and Jeff Schoep, the former leader of a neo-Nazi organization, explore the power of dialogue in dismantling hate. Daryl shares his unique approach of engaging with extremists, emphasizing curiosity over confrontation. Jeff reflects on how his interactions with Daryl transformed his views, showcasing the struggles and courage involved in leaving a hate group. Together, they highlight core human values that bridge divides and the importance of keeping conversations open, even with those who hold opposing beliefs.
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Scout Parade That Sparked A Quest
- Daryl Davis recounts being the only Black Cub Scout in a parade and getting hit with bottles and rocks.
- That incident at age 10 forced him to confront racism and sparked decades of curiosity about why people hate.
Curiosity As Diplomatic Strategy
- Daryl frames his approach as curiosity, not courage, learned from growing up around diplomacy.
- His diplomatic habit is to ask questions to understand opposing views rather than confront them.
Restaurant Conversation That Began Change
- Jeff met Daryl during a filmed interview and escalated angrily, then watched Daryl stay calm and continue the conversation.
- That respectful exchange planted doubt in Jeff that later helped him leave the movement.
