

IN-DEPTH: Greatness on Trial (w/ Brad Stulberg and Clay Skipper)
740 snips Mar 6, 2025
Brad Stulberg, a writer and co-founder of The Growth Equation, joins Clay Skipper, a GQ veteran and insightful commentator, to dissect our modern concept of greatness. They explore the contradiction of admiring skill while rejecting performative displays, drawing examples from figures like Elon Musk. The discussion digs into the detrimental effects of social media on perceptions of success, urging a shift towards valuing authentic effort over superficial marks of achievement. Ultimately, they advocate for a personal definition of greatness rooted in integrity and genuine connections.
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Performative Hard Work
- Elon Musk's chainsaw stunt at CPAC was seen as performative hard work.
- Many on the left criticize this performative work ethic, while some on the right praise it.
Genuine Greatness vs. Performative Hard Work
- While performative hard work is often criticized, genuine hard work is still valued.
- Actor Timothée Chalamet's speech at the SAG Awards, praising the pursuit of greatness, was widely admired.
Critique of Performative Work
- A New York Times commenter criticized so-called "masters of the universe."
- They called out their performative work ethic and disorganized decision-making, hidden behind long meetings.