Worklife with Adam Grant

Ed Helms, actor and comedian celebrated for his roles on The Office and in The Hangover, shares his journey through failure and growth with Adam Grant. The discussion weaves in personal anecdotes about the emotional challenges of live comedy. Ed reflects on the significance of mundane moments in life and explores creative struggles with humor. With insights on decision-making biases, groupthink, and the importance of diverse perspectives, the conversation is both entertaining and enlightening, emphasizing resilience and the power of connection.

Daniel Immerwahr, a history professor at Northwestern University and award-winning author, dives deep into the myths surrounding attention spans in the digital age. He challenges the notion that technology is shrinking our focus, instead suggesting it's the objects of our attention that are changing. Immerwahr discusses historical moral panics over distractions, compares the cognitive benefits of video games to traditional forms of art, and questions the cultural value of Marvel movies, sparking a captivating conversation about engagement and creativity.

Rachel Herz, a Brown University neuroscientist and author, dives into the fascinating world of taste and smell. She explains the genetics behind being a 'super taster' and how our biology shapes food preferences. Herz discusses the often-overlooked power of smell, especially in forming emotional connections and memories. Plus, she humorously speculates on future technologies that could enhance our sensory experiences. Tune in for insights that will change the way you think about the food on your plate!

John Green, best-selling author of 'The Fault in Our Stars' and co-creator of Crash Course, dives into impactful societal issues. He discusses his book 'Everything is Tuberculosis,' shedding light on health inequalities and the pressing need for systemic change. The conversation touches on the creativity behind writing, the challenges of book bans, and the intersection of personal experiences with OCD and disease fascination. Green also shares fun anecdotes about innovative inventions, all while promoting empathy and action against injustice.

Ron Chernow, a Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer, shares his insights on American historical figures and explores the complexities of their legacies. He discusses his new book on Mark Twain, highlighting Twain's chaotic creativity and disillusionments. Chernow delves into what motivates greatness in America, emphasizing resilience and leadership. He also reflects on the transformative power of biography, suggesting it requires both artistic intuition and rigorous research, while assessing how personal relationships shape our understanding of these impactful lives.

Join Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand known for her empathetic leadership, as she delves into the significance of compassion in governance. She discusses overcoming self-doubt, especially in the face of challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. Ardern shares personal stories about navigating tall poppy syndrome and the burdens of leadership while emphasizing the importance of kindness and vulnerability. Explore how her experiences redefine effective political leadership in today's world.

Susan Dominus, a staff writer at the New York Times Magazine and author of The Family Dynamic, dives into the overlooked influence of siblings on personal success. She argues that sibling relationships shape individual identity and resilience, often more than parental guidance. The conversation touches on how birth order affects parenting styles and success dynamics. Dominus shares insights from her research, revealing how siblings can act as mentors or rivals, significantly impacting aspirations and achievements throughout life.

Tara Darrow, VP at T-Mobile, leads a multi-generational team while focusing on workplace psychological safety. Audio producer Harry Huggins highlights email etiquette challenges faced by younger colleagues. Together, they explore the impact of generational stereotypes, emphasizing the need for open communication and mentorship. The discussion also emphasizes adapting workplace culture to prioritize mental health and healthy work environments, promoting trust and collaboration across age groups.

Nicole Smith, a seasoned journalist managing a newsroom of diverse ages, shares her insights on generational divides. Joined by Jennifer Deal, a USC research scientist specializing in workplace dynamics, they discuss the exaggerated stereotypes that fuel intergenerational conflict. They explore how personal experiences often transcend age differences, highlighting shared values across generations. The conversation advocates for valuing individual contributions, fostering collaboration, and addressing ageism to create a more inclusive work environment.

Michael McCullough, a psychology professor at UC San Diego, discusses the fascinating intricacies of forgiveness. He delves into why humans evolved to forgive and the psychological impacts of holding grudges on health and relationships. The conversation highlights the struggle between seeking reconciliation and the need for personal accountability, emphasizing that forgiveness isn’t always the solution. McCullough also addresses how personal and cultural factors shape our ability to let go of past grievances, promoting a more nuanced understanding of emotional healing.