Worklife with Adam Grant

Jon M. Chu, renowned filmmaker behind hits like Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, shares his inspiring journey navigating Hollywood's complex landscape. He reflects on the courage needed to tell authentic stories and the significance of mentorship in creative pursuits. Discussing identity and representation, Jon addresses the balance between artistic vision and audience expectations. He also highlights the importance of cultivating a new generation of filmmakers who are eager to break boundaries and innovate in storytelling.

Betsy Levy Paluck, a social psychologist from Princeton, dives into her groundbreaking research on combating prejudice. She shares how changing social norms can be more effective than altering individual mindsets. Their conversation highlights successful strategies from her experiments in Rwanda and schools, showcasing the power of media in promoting reconciliation. Betsy emphasizes the importance of introspection and empathy in confronting personal biases, while exploring the potential for a more accepting society.

In this engaging discussion, Danny Meyer, the visionary behind Shake Shack and Union Square Hospitality Group, shares his journey from launching Union Square Cafe to becoming a culinary titan. He emphasizes building a culture of generosity and care in the workplace, highlighting the importance of hiring individuals who treat others well. Meyer also discusses innovative strategies for retaining restaurant staff, particularly post-COVID, and the significance of creating a supportive environment that fosters growth and enhances customer satisfaction.

Rafi Kohan, journalist and author of "Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn’t Total Garbage," explores the fascinating world of competitive insults. He talks about the historical roots of trash talk in sports and how it functions as a psychological tool for motivation. Highlighting the delicate balance between playful banter and potential unethical behavior, Rafi shares anecdotes that showcase trash talk's dual nature. He also discusses how the 'underdog effect' can convert stress into motivation, revealing its deeper role in relationships and personal growth.

Julia Gillard, Australia's first female Prime Minister, shares her groundbreaking experience leading a nation while advocating for gender equality. She reflects on her iconic speech against misogyny and the ongoing challenges women face in leadership roles. The conversation covers the nuanced impacts of gender divides, feminism's benefits for everyone, and the importance of compassionate, humble leadership. Gillard also addresses the cultural 'tall poppy syndrome' and offers insights into fostering a more inclusive future for all.

David Dunning, a renowned psychologist and the co-author of the Dunning-Kruger effect, dives into the intricacies of overconfidence and self-awareness. He discusses how people often overestimate their skills while overlooking their limitations. Dunning shares practical strategies to combat overconfidence, including the value of second opinions and the importance of collaborative feedback. He also examines the risks tied to uninformed decision-making and the challenges of truly understanding our expertise in an age of misinformation.

Mellody Hobson, President and co-CEO of Ariel Investments, shares her expertise on navigating tough feedback and its role in personal and professional growth. She emphasizes the importance of finding value in criticism, encouraging listeners to view it as a gift. The conversation also touches on resilience, transformative leadership, and the challenges she faced growing up. Additionally, she discusses fostering anti-racist workplaces and the significance of open dialogue to create lasting change in corporate culture.

Anne Curzan, a linguist and English professor at the University of Michigan, shares her love for language in a lively discussion. She tackles grammar rules and whether they truly make sense in today’s world. Curzan and her host delve into the playful world of Gen-Z slang and the fascinating evolution of language. They explore the peculiarities of English pronunciation, such as the word 'colonel,' and the shift in attitudes towards language usage, promoting curiosity over rigid grammar rules.

Gabrielle Zevin, an acclaimed novelist known for her bestseller Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, dives into the lessons learned from failure. She candidly shares how setbacks fuel creativity and the importance of embracing new beginnings with each book. The conversation touches on the psychological effects of high expectations, the intricate dance between personal relationships and creative expression, and the vital role of character development in storytelling. Zevin's insights redefine success beyond societal pressures, showcasing the true nature of artistic ambition.

Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group and a champion of human rights and sustainability, shares his adventurous spirit and lessons from decades of entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the importance of saying yes to opportunities and embracing risks. Branson discusses what makes great leaders, highlighting the value of active listening and authenticity. He also reflects on personal transformation through space travel and advocates for a fresh perspective on social issues. Humor and adventure are central themes as he encourages stepping out of comfort zones.