Worklife with Adam Grant

Acclaimed novelist Celeste Ng, best known for her bestsellers "Everything I Never Told You" and "Little Fires Everywhere," dives into her captivating writing process with Adam Grant, a long-time friend. They discuss how she balances narrative with language's beauty and the transformative power of writing as a tool for understanding. Celeste shares the challenges of marrying personal experiences with her storytelling, while reflecting on how her latest book tackles themes of dystopia mirroring societal issues, emphasizing hope amidst chaos.

In this insightful discussion, neuroscientist Chantel Prat, known for her work on cognitive differences and language learning, challenges the myth of being 'not wired that way.' She unpacks how left and right brain functions affect our abilities, revealing that coding may rely more on verbal skills than math. Chantel also shares fascinating insights on brain injuries' impact on personality and advocates for more inclusive education in coding, highlighting the links between language skills and coding proficiency.

A group of college seniors dives into a unique discussion about privilege during a seminar led by Malcolm Gladwell. They explore how aspects like birth month and relative age impact educational outcomes, revealing surprising advantages tied to arbitrary systems. Students reflect on their experiences in Ivy League settings, confronting the often-ignored dynamics of privilege. The conversation also considers the idea of applying maturity-based adjustments to create fairness in education, paralleling concepts used in sports.

Atul Gawande, a renowned surgeon, public health leader, and bestselling author, shares insights from his diverse career. He emphasizes the importance of embracing opportunities, a principle that has shaped his multifaceted journey. Gawande discusses the value of having a coach even in surgery, how to combat burnout in healthcare, and supporting Afghan refugees through workplace inclusion. He also touches on using music in the operating room to enhance teamwork and the importance of long-term health initiatives in response to crises.

Renowned free solo climber Alex Honnold, famous for his groundbreaking ascent of El Capitan without ropes, shares insights on managing fear and motivation. He discusses the psychology of climbing, highlighting how he uses self-talk and visualization to conquer challenges. Honnold reflects on his intrinsic drive and the balance of risk and reward, revealing how facing fear can lead to personal growth. He also humorously explores his everyday decision-making using an alter ego, showcasing the connection between adventure and aligning life choices with values.

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.