Worklife with Adam Grant

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.

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.