Worklife with Adam Grant

Mark Cuban, a serial entrepreneur and the owner of the Dallas Mavericks, shares his journey from selling garbage bags to revolutionizing healthcare with Cost Plus Drugs. He discusses how he turns challenges into opportunities while emphasizing that following passion isn't the key to motivation. Instead, he advocates for prioritizing effort and transparency in business. Cuban also touches on the dynamics of building effective teams and the future of healthcare affordability, stressing the importance of community feedback in decision-making.

Get ready for lively discussions with fascinating thinkers and leaders! This new series dives into the minds of entrepreneurs, climbers, novelists, and scientists. Explore what makes these achievers tick and how their unique perspectives can challenge the way we think. From Mark Cuban to Oscar winner Reese Witherspoon, each conversation promises insights that spark curiosity and inspire rethinking. It's all about uncovering the secrets behind their success and the innovative ideas that can reshape our world.

Dive into the world of sitcoms with Michael Schur, creator of iconic characters like Leslie Knope and Michael Scott. Explore the blend of comedy and moral philosophy that shapes workplace dynamics in his shows. Discover how storytelling has shifted from cynicism to empathy, especially in decision-making scenarios. Schur also reflects on a personal car accident that opened his eyes to complex ethical dilemmas, ultimately linking luck to success and emphasizing the importance of understanding others' struggles.

Dan Heath, co-author of 'Switch' and expert in change management, teams up with Hubert Jolie, the turnaround specialist behind Best Buy's revival. They tackle the complex nature of workplace transformation, discussing the necessity of emotional connections to drive change. Using compelling case studies, they emphasize that successful change requires addressing both data and feelings. The conversation highlights innovative approaches to resistance, adaptability, and the importance of authenticity in fostering a thriving workplace culture.

Jenny Chapman, an organizational behavior professor known for her insights on workplace dynamics, teams up with Annie Kau, VP of Engineering at Simpson Manufacturing, a company celebrated for its strong culture. They discuss the four deadly sins of work culture, sharing fascinating anecdotes about navigating toxic environments versus thriving ones. Their conversation emphasizes the importance of pre-employment research and humor in fostering relationships. They also highlight leadership's crucial role in cultivating a positive culture and adapting to changing workforce needs.

Joining the conversation are Michelle Nario-Redmond, a social psychologist specializing in ableism, and Gil Winch, founder of Call Yechol, a call center that champions inclusive hiring practices. They dive into the realities of disability in the workplace, tackling the stigma around disclosure and the complexities of ableism. The discussion highlights innovative approaches to create supportive environments, emphasizing how empowering individuals with disabilities can lead to organizational success. They advocate for open communication and a cultural shift to foster inclusivity.

Nick Bloom, a Stanford economist studying remote and hybrid work, and Sadal Neely, an expert in work and technology from Harvard, delve into the nuances of returning to the office. They share evidence on how hybrid work fosters productivity and enhances well-being. The discussion emphasizes establishing clear frameworks for mental health, the importance of structured schedules, and the use of innovative empathy training techniques. They also explore strategies for effective teamwork in hybrid settings, addressing the ongoing challenges in managing remote and diverse teams.

Ava DuVernay, an award-winning filmmaker known for her powerful narratives around social justice, shares her inspiring journey from publicist to directing blockbuster films. She reflects on the valuable lessons learned while making 'Selma,' emphasizing effective leadership and the importance of storytelling. Ava discusses her evolution as a leader, the significance of passion over mere opportunity, and how the stories we tell can influence cultural narratives. Her insights on collaboration and personal growth highlight the complexities of creative expression in her work.

Satya Nadella, the visionary Chairman and CEO of Microsoft, shares his insights on transforming corporate culture and adapting to the future of work. He discusses innovative leadership strategies that prioritize collaboration and psychological safety. Nadella emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in fostering open dialogue, particularly for diverse teams. He also explores how remote and hybrid work dynamics require new approaches to management and employee well-being, along with the transformative potential of the metaverse in work interactions.

Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist celebrated for her research on grit, joins Stephen Dubner to discuss the significance of emotional intelligence (EI) in leadership. They explore whether EI is essential for effective leadership and if it can be learned. The conversation touches on the four components of EI and highlights the nuances of high EI, including its potential downsides. Personal anecdotes and humorous exchanges bring a relatable spin, prompting listeners to reflect on self-awareness in emotional interactions.