Worklife with Adam Grant cover image

Worklife with Adam Grant

Fixing the trust crisis with Rachel Botsman

Jan 14, 2025
Rachel Botsman, a leading expert on trust and author of "Who Can You Trust?" dives into the complexities of trust in our relationships. She discusses why we often misplace our trust and challenges the notion that transparency is a one-size-fits-all solution. Rachel emphasizes the importance of context, empathy in leadership, and the difference between competence and reliability. She also highlights the need for candid communication to rebuild trust in institutions and personal connections, making it clear that authenticity is key in fostering genuine relationships.
43:17

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Trust is a dynamic relationship with the unknown, and understanding context is key to navigating trust effectively in various situations.
  • Secrecy should not be equated with a lack of trust; engaging in honest dialogue is essential for rebuilding trust after a breach.

Deep dives

The Nature of Trust

Trust is defined as having a confident relationship with the unknown, which contrasts with the belief that transparency leads to trust. Trust allows individuals to navigate uncertainty, and high-trust cultures often foster innovation and open communication. This view redefines how trust is perceived, suggesting that rather than seeking full transparency, it is vital to understand the context and motivations behind decisions. Effective trust arises when people are comfortable with uncertainty, enabling productive relationships and discussions even in challenging circumstances.

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