Worklife with Adam Grant

Jon Batiste, a Grammy and Oscar-winning musician and bandleader for The Late Show, dives into the art of pushing limits. He shares insights on his creative process and musical journey, highlighting the importance of originality and community. Batiste discusses navigating feedback while staying true to himself and explores music's power to connect during times of grief. He also teases his upcoming work, 'American Symphony,' which examines American identity through diverse voices, and reflects on how gaming influences his creativity.

Thomas Curran, a psychologist at the London School of Economics, dives deep into the rising trend of perfectionism and its detrimental effects on mental health. He shares eye-opening insights on how perfectionism fuels anxiety and burnout, particularly among youth. Adam and Thomas discuss the importance of embracing failure and fostering environments that prioritize growth over flawless execution. They introduce the 'Church of Fail,' a concept that celebrates vulnerability and learning from mistakes, revealing how redefining success can lead to healthier and more productive workplaces.

Jessica Holton, a startup founder revolutionizing relationship counseling, and Franklin Leonard, the visionary behind The Blacklist, dive into the art of pitching. They unravel the myth that great pitches rely solely on charisma, emphasizing the power of authenticity and storytelling. Listeners learn how to master the critical components of effective pitches, navigate rejection, and adapt ideas for greater acceptance. The discussion also touches on the shift in Hollywood towards inclusive narratives and the importance of data in promoting innovative ideas.

Jill Payne, a leader in Gore's medical products division, shares her journey transitioning from Nike to a flexible work culture. She discusses how autonomy in choosing projects and collaboration fosters innovation. The importance of balancing employee freedom with organizational control is emphasized, along with the transformative potential of self-managed teams. Jill also highlights initiatives like 'CEO of the Day' that enhance engagement and creativity, showcasing how flexibility isn't just remote work, but a holistic approach to personal and professional growth.

In this engaging conversation, Anthony Klotz, a management professor at Texas A&M and the mind behind the term 'Great Resignation,' dives into the fascinating dynamics of workers leaving their jobs. He discusses when it's truly the right time to quit and the risks of regret that come with such decisions. Klotz emphasizes the importance of professionalism while resigning and shares insights on why open communication can enhance employee retention. He also touches on the trend of workers returning to former jobs, seeking better work-life balance.

Dolly Parton, a legendary singer-songwriter and beloved humanitarian, shares her insights on creativity and ambition. She discusses her vibrant new project, 'Run, Rose, Run,' co-created with James Patterson. Dolly reveals her unique songwriting process and how she balances perfection with productivity. With a lifetime dedication to music, she emphasizes the importance of embracing imperfections and viewing setbacks as growth opportunities. She also highlights the power of collaboration in artistry and the significance of authenticity in her journey.

Join Michael McFaul, a political scientist and former U.S. ambassador to Russia, as he delves into the stark contrasts between Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky's leadership styles amid the Ukraine conflict. Discover how Putin's rise has reshaped authoritarianism and the implications for democracy. McFaul reveals insights into Zelensky's resilience and motivations, emphasizing the critical importance of accountability in leadership. The discussion also highlights the differing impacts of their actions on global perceptions and national identity.

Amy Webb, CEO of the Future Today Institute and a professor of strategic foresight at NYU Stern, takes listeners on a fascinating journey into the future. She reveals innovations in transportation, like the revolutionary Hyperloop, and discusses the future of health tech focusing on women's wellness. Webb also dives into the challenges of identity management in the digital age, spotlighting Estonia's digital passport efforts and blockchain technology. Her insights on the ethical dimensions of synthetic biology prompt critical reflection on our rapidly evolving world.

Join science journalist Annie Murphy Paul, author of "The Extended Mind," as she explores the fascinating connection between our minds and bodies. She advocates for the power of fidgeting and its role in cognition, while also providing tips to enhance group brainstorms. Discover how gestures enhance communication and why nature is vital for mental well-being. Paul dives into the emotional implications of the extended mind, urging us to consider how our relationships shape our cognitive abilities.

Esther Duflo, a Nobel laureate and MIT economist, transforms how we think about poverty and economics. She shares her early dislike for economics and how personal experiences fueled her passion. The conversation explores the importance of human motivation beyond just financial incentives, highlighting dignity and purpose. Duflo emphasizes economists as practical problem-solvers akin to plumbers, advocating for real-world applications of economic theories. With insights on social norms and behavior change, she inspires listeners to rethink solutions for complex global issues.