Worklife with Adam Grant

DeMar DeRozan, an NBA player and mental health advocate, shares his personal journey with depression, highlighting the need for a workplace that recognizes emotional struggles. He calls for the inclusion of 'sad days' alongside sick days to allow individuals to be vulnerable without stigma. The discussion uncovers myths around mental health and emphasizes that vulnerability can foster supportive environments. DeRozan argues that compassion should replace mere empathy, promoting a culture where mental health conversations are normalized and encouraged.

Join Harvard Professor Amy Edmondson, an expert in psychological safety, and Admiral William McRaven, a retired Navy SEAL officer, as they tackle the critical topic of speaking up at work. They share insights on fostering an environment where employees can voice concerns without fear. Edmondson highlights the disastrous effects of a toxic workplace culture, while McRaven draws on military leadership experiences to emphasize trust and open communication. Together, they explore how psychological safety can drive innovation and prevent costly errors.

Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of Broadway hits like Hamilton, joins his father Luis Miranda, a political strategist and activist. They explore how Lin transitioned from teacher to playwright and the emotional labor behind creative projects. The duo discusses the importance of taking risks, as exemplified by Lin's performance at the White House. They also touch on family dynamics in creativity, the role of daydreaming, and the significance of cultural representation, particularly in Latino storytelling. Their conversation is infused with humor and wisdom on balancing work and life.

John Green, the acclaimed author of "The Fault in Our Stars," discusses the fascinating journey of tracking his attention. He shares insights on human progress, rating everything from wonder to Canadian geese. John also dives into the transformative power of storytelling and the idea of flow in our daily tasks, showcasing how games like Mario Kart reflect life's complexities. Through humor and personal anecdotes, he emphasizes the significance of community, nostalgia, and the balance between focus and connection in our lives.

Mellody Hobson, a trailblazing leader and co-CEO of Ariel Investments, shares her insights on the often challenging nature of feedback. She discusses the importance of unearthing the valuable lessons hidden within criticism and when it might be wise to overlook certain critiques. Hobson also underscores the necessity of authenticity and resilience in fostering a growth culture while managing global teams. Through her personal experiences, she highlights how discomfort can catalyze change and the vital role of accountability in promoting diversity and inclusion.

In this discussion, Merve Emre, an Associate Professor of English at the University of Oxford and a contributor to The New Yorker, dives deep into emotional intelligence's darker side. She argues that rather than fostering genuine connection, it can be weaponized as a tool of corporate control. Emre critiques the methods of measuring emotional intelligence and the social expectations around emotional labor in the workplace. The conversation touches on the importance of authenticity and the need for systemic change to enhance workplace culture.

Stand-up comedian Taylor Tomlinson, known for her Netflix special, and author Lovie Ajayi-Jones, celebrated for her insights on life and career, delve into the nature of insecurities. They share how self-doubt can fuel creativity and personal growth, showcasing their journeys through comedy and overcoming imposter syndrome. The duo discusses the power of laughter, the importance of embracing one's identity, and how recognizing insecurities can lead to greater motivation and fulfillment in both personal and professional realms.

Join Andrew Ross Sorkin, a business and finance columnist, Kat Davis, a Walmart associate advocating for family leave, and May McDonald, a Wharton professor studying employee activism. They discuss how workers are demanding more from employers, pushing for alignment of corporate values with social justice. The trio explores the rise of employee activism, recent protests at major companies, and the challenges leaders face in meeting these new expectations while fostering a positive workplace culture.

Thais Wilkins, a senior advisor on diversity and inclusion at BAE Systems, and Ashley Shelby Rosette, a management professor at Duke, delve into the real issues of workplace bias. They discuss the shortcomings of traditional bias training, emphasizing the need for ongoing behavior change. The chat highlights the importance of accountability in leadership and sharing knowledge to foster inclusion. Together, they explore how systemic biases can be dismantled to advance marginalized groups into leadership roles and how organizations can truly embrace diversity.

Ricardo Semler, CEO of Semco, is renowned for his radical approach to workplace management. In this discussion, he reveals how higher wages can lead to heightened employee commitment and productivity. Semler shares insights on self-set salaries and the benefits of transparency in pay practices, showcasing companies that have transformed their cultures through generous compensation. The conversation explores the link between fair pay and mental well-being, emphasizing that investing in people creates a more engaged and loyal workforce.