Worklife with Adam Grant

Admiral Linda Fagan, the first woman to lead a U.S. military branch as Commandant of the Coast Guard, discusses her journey through leadership and breaking barriers. She candidly shares her experiences with impostor syndrome and the importance of confidence and humility in leadership. The conversation covers her initiatives to enhance work-life balance, the need for mental health support in organizations, and the evolution of leadership styles to foster inclusivity and resilience. Her journey inspires a new generation of leaders female and male alike.

Discover how a new call-in podcast tackles everyday workplace challenges head-on! The hosts dive into the power of conversation to find practical solutions. Personal experiences and engaging anecdotes bring life to the strategies discussed. Listeners are encouraged to share their work dilemmas for insightful advice. It's a refreshing take on problem-solving in organizations!

Brené Brown, a renowned research professor known for her insights on vulnerability and empathy, teams up with Simon Sinek, a celebrated author and ethnographer famous for his work on purpose in leadership. Together, they explore essential leadership skills such as the power of trust, communicating courage, and embracing vulnerability. They discuss navigating remote work challenges and the importance of inclusivity and emotional awareness. With humor and depth, they provide actionable advice for building better leaders in today's evolving workplace.

Joe Dumars, a six-time NBA All-Star and Hall of Famer, shares insights from his remarkable career with the Detroit Pistons. He discusses the importance of embracing individuality within team dynamics, highlighting how different personalities can create a strong culture. Dumars emphasizes effective leadership qualities like humility and kindness over personal ambition. He also explores the value of communication in NBA operations and the lessons learned from managing diverse talents, advocating for personal freedom in leadership choices.

Ginni Rometty, the former CEO of IBM and author of "Good Power," shares her inspiring journey as a leader in the tech industry. She discusses the importance of cultivating influence and leading change while emphasizing values-driven decision-making. Ginni also delves into the ethical implications of AI, advocating for transparency and trust. With a focus on personal growth, she encourages embracing discomfort and prioritizing meaningful connections, showcasing how these elements foster a thriving workplace culture.

Steve Martin, the award-winning comedian and multifaceted artist, joins prolific New Yorker writer Adam Gopnik for an insightful conversation. They discuss the art of finding authenticity through imitation, exploring how personal experiences shape humor and creativity. Their banter touches on mastering comedy, the importance of failure, and the balancing act between success and meaningful friendships. Listeners will enjoy their rapid-fire insights that reveal how embracing new opportunities can lead to unexpected artistic growth.

Pete Carroll, the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, shares his groundbreaking approach to building a winning team through emotional connections and strong relationships. He emphasizes the importance of accountability and honest reflection, introducing his 'Tell the Truth Monday' practice to foster open dialogue. Carroll discusses how recognizing character over mere talent enhances team culture and communication. He delves into the psychological impact of leadership during high-stakes moments, highlighting the role of authenticity in coaching and personal growth.

Tara Westover, author of the bestselling memoir "Educated," shares her remarkable journey from a survivalist upbringing in Idaho to earning a PhD. She discusses the struggles of self-education and the profound impact of challenging one’s beliefs, particularly through her experiences at Cambridge. The conversation delves into the complexities of success, the dynamics of conspiracy theories, and the importance of humility in dialogues about differing perspectives. Tara emphasizes the need for emotional maturity and the value of compassionate communication in understanding others.

Join behavioral economist Uri Gneezy, known for his groundbreaking work on incentives, as he delves into what truly motivates us. He explains how financial penalties can backfire, exemplified by parental behavior at daycare. Discover the complex dynamics of workplace incentives and why they often lead to unintended consequences. Gneezy also shares insights on the importance of intrinsic motivation and the role of incentives in relationships. Plus, he introduces a new podcast aimed at addressing work challenges with speed and insight.

Bestselling author Andy Weir, known for his science-packed novels like "The Martian," shares his intriguing perspective on writing: he doesn't particularly enjoy it. He reveals his creative process, emphasizing the importance of research and the joy of worldbuilding. Andy also discusses character morality and his thoughts on space and extraterrestrial life, peppering the conversation with humor. He offers valuable advice for aspiring writers, encouraging them to focus on dedicated writing rather than getting lost in conceptual ideas.