Worklife with Adam Grant

Susan Dominus, a staff writer at the New York Times Magazine and author of The Family Dynamic, dives into the overlooked influence of siblings on personal success. She argues that sibling relationships shape individual identity and resilience, often more than parental guidance. The conversation touches on how birth order affects parenting styles and success dynamics. Dominus shares insights from her research, revealing how siblings can act as mentors or rivals, significantly impacting aspirations and achievements throughout life.

Tara Darrow, VP at T-Mobile, leads a multi-generational team while focusing on workplace psychological safety. Audio producer Harry Huggins highlights email etiquette challenges faced by younger colleagues. Together, they explore the impact of generational stereotypes, emphasizing the need for open communication and mentorship. The discussion also emphasizes adapting workplace culture to prioritize mental health and healthy work environments, promoting trust and collaboration across age groups.

Nicole Smith, a seasoned journalist managing a newsroom of diverse ages, shares her insights on generational divides. Joined by Jennifer Deal, a USC research scientist specializing in workplace dynamics, they discuss the exaggerated stereotypes that fuel intergenerational conflict. They explore how personal experiences often transcend age differences, highlighting shared values across generations. The conversation advocates for valuing individual contributions, fostering collaboration, and addressing ageism to create a more inclusive work environment.

Michael McCullough, a psychology professor at UC San Diego, discusses the fascinating intricacies of forgiveness. He delves into why humans evolved to forgive and the psychological impacts of holding grudges on health and relationships. The conversation highlights the struggle between seeking reconciliation and the need for personal accountability, emphasizing that forgiveness isn’t always the solution. McCullough also addresses how personal and cultural factors shape our ability to let go of past grievances, promoting a more nuanced understanding of emotional healing.

Beth Polin, a management professor, and Mark Gallagher, a Formula One expert, delve into the art of sincere apologies. They discuss how a genuine apology can restore trust and repair relationships, highlighting essential elements like responsibility and empathy. Polin shares insights on teaching children the importance of amending wrongs, while Gallagher connects the intricacies of effective apologies to high-stakes decision-making in racing. Their conversation unveils the transformative power of accountability both in personal and professional realms.

Jia Tolentino, a writer at The New Yorker and author of Trick Mirror, dives into the pitfalls of identity capitalism and personal branding. She discusses the pressures of online self-surveillance and the emotional toll of crafting a marketable image. Tolentino highlights the commodification of identity and the ethical dilemmas associated with sharing personal data. Advocating for authenticity, she emphasizes the value of genuine self-expression over superficial branding, making a compelling case for prioritizing true connections in the digital landscape.

In a world full of influencers, the push for personal branding can actually stifle real connections. Emphasizing authenticity over a polished image, discussions reveal that genuine contributions and collaboration foster stronger reputations. Embracing vulnerability, like sharing a 'failure resume,' builds trust and camaraderie. The conversation critiques superficial self-promotion, especially regarding its impact on women and minorities, advocating instead for a reputation grounded in true values and integrity.

In this engaging discussion, Linda Babcock, a Professor emerita of economics at Carnegie Mellon and co-author of 'The No Club,' dives into the complexities of gender dynamics in the workplace. She highlights how women often bear a disproportionate burden of non-promotable tasks and offers insights on setting boundaries. Together with Adam Grant, they share personal anecdotes on the struggle of saying no, explore the impact of societal expectations, and propose effective strategies to reclaim time and prioritize work that truly matters.

In this engaging discussion, Vanessa Bonds, a Cornell Professor and author focusing on influence, teams up with Sherry Liu, founder of the Eldest Daughter Club and a recovering people pleaser. They dive deep into the psychology behind saying no, highlighting the emotional toll of people-pleasing and the cultural pressures faced by women. The duo shares effective strategies for setting boundaries, emphasizing that asserting oneself can lead to healthier relationships and personal well-being.

Shonda Rhimes, the creative powerhouse behind iconic shows like Grey's Anatomy and Scandal, shares her journey of reinvention and storytelling. In a candid discussion, she emphasizes the importance of saying yes to frightening opportunities for personal growth. Shonda explores how her characters reflect real-life struggles and the significance of representation in media. She also delves into the nuances of leadership, creative collaboration, and the role of vulnerability in fostering innovative environments.