Worklife with Adam Grant

Jim Gaffigan, a beloved stand-up comedian and Emmy winner, shares his journey from marketing to comedy, revealing how personal experiences shape his humor. He hilariously navigates parenting five children and discusses the unpredictable nature of laughter. Gaffigan reflects on the challenges of the entertainment industry and relates the mundanity of everyday life, like Hot Pockets, to comedic inspiration. He also explores the complexities of modern parenting and critiques the superficiality of social experiences among teenagers, emphasizing the lasting impact of comedy.

Chip and Joanna Gaines, the beloved duo from 'Fixer Upper,' share insights on nurturing their successful partnership despite being an introvert and an extrovert. They recount their amusing meeting at a tire shop and the journey of balancing their personalities over two decades. The couple discusses life without television, emphasizing quality time, and shares home improvement tips that reflect their unique style. Their playful banter highlights the importance of communication and understanding in both love and entrepreneurship.

Join Ed Catmull, co-founder of Pixar and Disney Animation, alongside Pete Docter, the creative genius behind iconic films, as they delve into the secrets of Pixar's success. They discuss the pivotal role of team culture in fostering creativity and collaboration. Learn about the importance of storytelling, embracing failure as a learning opportunity, and the creative processes that shaped beloved characters. Their insights on mentorship and evolving vision highlight how adaptability fuels genius in the ever-changing animation landscape.

Baratunde Thurston, an Emmy-nominated writer and comedian, shares insights into the art of storytelling and self-identity. He emphasizes vulnerability and authenticity as key components of connecting with audiences. Thurston also explores the complexities of emotional intelligence and the need for active engagement in citizenship. Additionally, he discusses the interplay between human creativity and AI, urging listeners to maintain curiosity in an evolving technological landscape.

Brian Little, an award-winning researcher and pioneering psychologist, dives into the science of personality and well-being. He discusses how personal projects shape happiness and the intricate dance between introversion and extraversion. Little emphasizes the value of serendipity in personal growth, highlighting how chance encounters can redefine our paths. The conversation also touches on the importance of balancing multiple projects for emotional health and the pressures of acting out of character, all framed by his fascinating stories and mentorship experiences.

Margot Lee Shetterly, author of the bestseller "Hidden Figures," shares her remarkable journey from investment banking to storytelling. She discusses the vital contributions of Black women in NASA and the significance of highlighting untold narratives. Margot emphasizes the power of reframing familiar stories to create deeper connections. She also explores the importance of allyship and representation in the workplace, as well as the evolving perspectives on career paths and personal growth.

James Clear, author of the bestselling book 'Atomic Habits,' shares insights on the power of habit formation and behavior change. He discusses how focusing on systems rather than goals can create lasting change, emphasizing the link between identity and habits. Clear highlights the transformative impact of small wins and the importance of aligning actions with personal values. He also reflects on his journey as a writer and the challenges of maintaining motivation after success.

Hamdi Ulukaya, the inspiring founder and CEO of Chobani, shares his remarkable journey from a nomadic Kurdish upbringing to leading a thriving yogurt brand. He discusses his unique 'anti-CEO playbook,' which prioritizes people over profit and redefines the role of business in society. Ulukaya emphasizes the integration of refugees into the workforce, the power of emotional leadership, and lessons learned from crises like the Turkish earthquake. His story is a powerful reminder of resilience and the potential for business to drive social change.

Agnes Callard, a philosophy professor at the University of Chicago, dives into the nuanced differences between ambition and aspiration. She unpacks how ambition drives goal-oriented actions, while aspiration fosters a desire for deeper understanding. Callard also explores the art of conversation, revealing how one-on-one dialogues can enhance engagement compared to larger group discussions. Furthermore, she highlights the importance of questioning our beliefs and emphasizes the role of open-minded dialogue in personal growth.

Join John Mackey, co-founder of Whole Foods and advocate of conscious capitalism, as he shares his unconventional journey. He emphasizes that flexibility is key in business, challenging the notion of rigid 5-year plans. Passion should drive careers, not fear, which he illustrates through his personal reflections and innovative health concepts like Love Life. The discussion also touches on the role of consumer feedback in shaping products, showcasing how understanding needs can lead to groundbreaking ideas.