Worklife with Adam Grant

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.

Beth Polin, a management professor, and Mark Gallagher, a Formula One expert, delve into the art of sincere apologies. They discuss how a genuine apology can restore trust and repair relationships, highlighting essential elements like responsibility and empathy. Polin shares insights on teaching children the importance of amending wrongs, while Gallagher connects the intricacies of effective apologies to high-stakes decision-making in racing. Their conversation unveils the transformative power of accountability both in personal and professional realms.

Jia Tolentino, a writer at The New Yorker and author of Trick Mirror, dives into the pitfalls of identity capitalism and personal branding. She discusses the pressures of online self-surveillance and the emotional toll of crafting a marketable image. Tolentino highlights the commodification of identity and the ethical dilemmas associated with sharing personal data. Advocating for authenticity, she emphasizes the value of genuine self-expression over superficial branding, making a compelling case for prioritizing true connections in the digital landscape.

In a world full of influencers, the push for personal branding can actually stifle real connections. Emphasizing authenticity over a polished image, discussions reveal that genuine contributions and collaboration foster stronger reputations. Embracing vulnerability, like sharing a 'failure resume,' builds trust and camaraderie. The conversation critiques superficial self-promotion, especially regarding its impact on women and minorities, advocating instead for a reputation grounded in true values and integrity.