TED Talks Daily Hidden Figures author Margot Lee Shetterly on reframing the stories we tell | ReThinking with Adam Grant
Feb 18, 2024
Margot Lee Shetterly, author of the bestselling book 'Hidden Figures,' reveals her journey from investment banking to illuminating the stories of Black women mathematicians at NASA. She discusses how reframing narratives can enrich our understanding of history and emphasizes the importance of diverse voices. The conversation delves into the significant impact of representation in STEM, the personal narratives that shape careers, and how literature can inspire social change and allyship.
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Margot Lee Shetterly's Origin Story
- Margot Lee Shetterly grew up around the women featured in "Hidden Figures," knowing them through community connections rather than their NASA work.
- She only later realized the significance of their roles and the story's relevance to her own life and opportunities.
Diverse Career Paths
- Before writing, Shetterly worked in investment banking, media startups, and even lived in Mexico, seeking control and freedom in her work.
- Each career change, whether chosen or forced, taught her valuable lessons, ultimately leading her to writing, her "best job."
The Story's Choice
- Some writers feel compelled to tell untold stories, while others seek stories to complement their love of writing.
- Shetterly identifies with the former, feeling the story of "Hidden Figures" chose her, leading her to the writing profession.
