Worklife with Adam Grant Melinda French Gates on navigating change
206 snips
Apr 15, 2025 
Melinda French Gates, a philanthropist and advocate for women and girls, shares her journey through personal and professional change. She discusses lessons from her divorce and leaving the Gates Foundation, emphasizing growth through adversity. Melinda highlights the importance of a support system and how giving with both heart and head can lead to meaningful philanthropy. The conversation also covers effective leadership during transitions and the value of focused giving to create a lasting impact.
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Finding Your Small Wave
- Seek support from someone who believes in your potential during transitions.
- They can provide perspective and encouragement when you doubt yourself.
IBM Job
- Melinda's father encouraged her to apply for a tech job despite her self-doubt.
- His belief in her led to her getting a job at IBM, proving the power of a "small wave".
Ease of Letting Go
- Letting go, though initially difficult, becomes easier with practice.
- Like a trapeze artist, you must release one grip to grasp the next opportunity.
