In a live conversation taped at the 92nd Street Y in New York City, Malcolm chats with his old friend and New Yorker magazine colleague, Adam Gopnik, about Adam’s latest book, The Real Work: On the Mystery of Mastery. In the book, Adam follows numerous masters of their craft to find out just how they do what they do—and discovers that there is mastery all around us. In this episode, Malcolm and Adam highlight a few of the folks from the book, and what they have to teach us. You can purchase the audiobook version of The Real Work: On the Mystery of Mastery at Pushkin.fmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Adam Gopnik, a staff writer at The New Yorker, dives into the seismic shift in Canadian politics with the resignation of Justin Trudeau after nearly ten years in office. He analyzes the factors behind Trudeau's plummeting popularity, including housing crises and pandemic fallout. Gopnik discusses the rise of Pierre Poilievre and how his far-right rhetoric mirrors Trump's MAGA movement. They explore the implications for Canadian identity and the potential radical shift in the country's political landscape.

Analysis of the parallels between Trump and Hitler's authoritarian behavior, exploring charismatic leadership and manipulation tactics. The podcast delves into psychological motivations driving political figures, warning about the dangers of authoritarianism and the importance of vigilance in protecting democracy.

Steve Martin has made an award-winning career out of taking on new identities–from actor and comedian to musician and novelist. Over the years, he’s learned that the best way to find yourself is by imitating your role models. He explores how to do that in a new audiobook, So Many Steves, with his longtime friend Adam Gopnik, the New Yorker writer and author. Steve and Adam join Adam Grant for a riveting discussion about impersonation and authenticity, humor and writing, success and happiness, and valuing the friends you make along the way. Transcripts for ReThinking are available at go.ted.com/RWAGscripts. For 15% off So Many Steves, use the code ADAMGRANT at pushkin.fm. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A few years ago, Adam Gopnik, a longtime writer for The New Yorker and three-time winner of the National Magazine Award, started thinking about all the things he wasn't good at. He couldn't dance the foxtrot or bake a brioche. Well into his 50s, he still had no idea how to drive a car. To make matters worse, when he looked around, he saw people who could do these things — often with great skill. How, he wondered, did they do it? How do any of us get good at the things we're good at? And how do some of us become next-level masters? To answer those questions, Adam set out to master the skills he lacked, and he has written up the results in a profound little book, "The Real Work: On the Mystery of Mastery."

Join James Taylor, the iconic singer-songwriter known for his emotional music and unique guitar style, in a captivating chat with Adam Gopnik, a seasoned New Yorker staff writer. They dive into Taylor's musical influences, from the Beatles to Brazilian rhythms, and share nostalgic tales of his journey from cello to guitar. The conversation sparkles with insights into spontaneous songwriting and the evolution of his sound. Listeners are treated to personal anecdotes and live performances that highlight the power of music to forge deep connections.

The New Yorker essayist explores the mystery of mastery as he tackles skills he believed he could never learn. Including boxing, figure drawing and – in his 50s – driving.

Adam Gopnik and Michael Shermer discuss choosing accomplishment over achievement, the secrets of stage magic, the concept of the 10,000-hour rule, and the impact of mentors. They explore the intrinsic value of passion in creative pursuits and reflect on the transient nature of external recognition. The conversation also delves into the interplay between genes, luck, and timing in shaping individuals' lives and achievements.

Adam Gopnik, a New Yorker staff writer, discusses the alarming parallels between Hitler's rise to power and current political situations in the US, emphasizing charismatic leadership, shamelessness, and the creation of imaginary enemies. The conversation delves into Trump's authoritarian behavior, threats to democracy, and the importance of safeguarding democratic principles.

Comedian Brian Frange brutally ranks apples, calling some 'horse food' and 'indigestible filth'. Reporter Katie Thornton discusses the clever design of the Frankfurt Kitchen. Adam Gopnik marvels at the magic of stovetop cooking. They make Indian-Spiced Smashed Potatoes.