Wisdom From The Top with Guy Raz

Ken Coleman, known as “America’s Career Coach,” shares his inspiring journey from various jobs to his true passion in broadcasting. He discusses the importance of finding meaningful work and the pivotal question, "What do you wonder about doing?" Ken explains his transition to broadcasting at age 31 and the challenges faced, including networking and overcoming fear. He emphasizes the Proximity Principle, highlighting how surrounding yourself with the right people can unlock career potential and lead to fulfillment.

Dara Treseder, the CMO at Autodesk and former SVP at Peloton, shares her inspiring journey from Nigeria to becoming a marketing leader. She discusses the critical role of teamwork in driving organizational success and her transition from finance to marketing, shaped by challenges and identity. Dara emphasizes Peloton's commitment to diversity, highlights lessons learned during a brand crisis, and details transformative marketing strategies that foster community engagement. Her story is a powerful testament to ambition, resilience, and the impact of meaningful collaboration.

Joe Keohane, a seasoned journalist and author of "The Power of Strangers," discusses how conversations with strangers can greatly enhance happiness and empathy. He emphasizes the importance of small talk and shares personal anecdotes about overcoming social anxiety. The podcast explores historical connections among early humans, advocating for an open mindset to counteract the fear of rejection. Keohane also highlights the role of music in social bonding and suggests practical tips for initiating conversations, even in anxious settings like the subway.

B.J. Fogg, the founder of Stanford’s Behavior Design Lab and author of 'Tiny Habits,' shares groundbreaking insights on behavior change. He challenges traditional ideas about habit formation, emphasizing the power of tiny, incremental changes. Fogg reveals how prompts can shape our habits and discusses the importance of celebrating small wins to foster lasting transformation. His research advocates for flexible approaches to personal goals, focusing on internal victories rather than perfectionism. Discover how tiny habits can lead to significant life improvements!

Ken Hicks, former CEO of Foot Locker and current head of Academy Sports + Outdoors, shares his journey of revitalizing Foot Locker during the recession. He reveals how storytelling transformed the brand's connection with customers beyond product-centric approaches. Hicks discusses his transition from military leadership to retail, the importance of adapting to consumer behavior, and creating unique in-store experiences. He emphasizes the value of securing exclusive partnerships, like those with Nike, as a strategic edge in an evolving market.

In this engaging discussion, Josh Silverman, a turnaround expert and CEO of Etsy, reveals how he revived the company from the brink of collapse in 2017. He shares invaluable insights on transformative leadership during crises, emphasizing the importance of focusing on key metrics and empowering teams. Josh recounts his strategic decision-making from his past roles at Evite and eBay, highlighting the balance between innovation and sustainability. The conversation also delves into Etsy's core values and the importance of aligning personal beliefs with business goals.

Kim Scott, a management coach and author of 'Radical Candor' and 'Just Work,' shares her transformative insights on leadership. She discusses the need for honesty and emotional support in building effective teams, especially in a post-pandemic work culture. Kim tackles the complexities of performance conversations, emphasizing balance between direct feedback and genuine care. She reflects on her experience at Google, revealing how radical candor fosters empowerment and creativity in workplace dynamics. Get ready for engaging stories and practical advice on inspiring individuals!

David Epstein, author of "The Sports Gene" and "Range," dives into the advantages of being a generalist in a world that often favors specialization. He shares his journey from an aspiring athlete to a bestselling author, highlighting how diverse experiences foster adaptability and success. Epstein discusses the myths surrounding the 10,000-hour rule and the importance of genetics in mastering skills. He also emphasizes the need for parenting that encourages exploration of varied interests, promoting curiosity as a vital component of personal growth.

Peter Cuneo, the former CEO who revitalized Marvel Entertainment from bankruptcy to a lucrative Disney acquisition, shares his journey and insights. He discusses the art of admitting mistakes in leadership and how vulnerability fosters loyalty. Cuneo reveals his 32 leadership principles, emphasizing transparency and emotional maturity. He recounts Marvel's transformation, highlighting innovative strategies that unlocked its potential and changed the landscape of cinematic storytelling. Tune in for lessons in turnaround leadership and the power of a strong corporate culture.

Hubert Joly, former CEO of Best Buy, is a seasoned leader known for his success in business turnarounds. He discusses the challenges Best Buy faced in 2012, including a staggering $1.7 billion loss and fierce competition from online retailers. Joly shares his people-first strategy that prioritizes collaboration over profits and the transformative 'Renew Blue' plan aimed at revitalizing retail. He also emphasizes the importance of empathy in customer service and the evolving dynamics of leadership, including a significant gender shift in corporate roles.