Worklife with Adam Grant

Aza Raskin, co-founder of the Center for Humane Technology and the Earth Species Project, reflects on his creation of the infinite scroll feature and its regrettable societal impact. He discusses the need for ethical technology that fosters well-being and brings attention to decoding whale communication to learn from other species. Aza explores how improving our interaction with technology could reshape democracy and enhance animal communication, advocating for a world where human and non-human voices are understood.

David Duchovny, the Golden Globe-winning star of The X-Files and Californication, shares his insights on failure, drawing from his unique path as a PhD dropout turned multifaceted artist. He explores the value of falling short, emphasizing how failures can foster resilience and personal growth. David discusses the subjective nature of success and how embracing our missteps can foster deeper empathy and connection. Their conversation reveals the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of authenticity in navigating both career challenges and creative expression.

Mae Martin, a talented comedian and writer known for their Netflix special "Sap," joins the conversation to explore the power of vulnerability in forging meaningful connections. They discuss overcoming procrastination through improvisation and the humor found in life's awkward moments. Mae shares their journey from stage fright to spontaneity, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in comedy and personal growth. The dialogue also highlights how embracing mistakes can lead to greater creativity and deeper relationships.

Kara Swisher, a formidable journalist and author of "Burn Book: A Tech Love Story," discusses her bold approach to interviewing some of tech's biggest names. She critiques the phrase "speak truth to power," emphasizing the nuances of communication, especially for marginalized voices. The conversation touches on the importance of mentorship and transformative leadership. Kara warns about the dark potential of AI, advocating for regulations, and reflects on the vital role of being a constructive irritant in fostering meaningful change.

In this enlightening discussion, beloved author Anne Lamott shares her thoughts on love, self-compassion, and the creative struggles faced by writers. Known for her witty and insightful prose, she explores the challenges of being kinder to ourselves and others while embracing the imperfections in writing. Lamott also delves into how perspectives on happiness evolve over time, highlighting the importance of peace over fleeting joy. With humor and introspection, she illustrates the significance of vulnerability and personal growth in both writing and life.

Meg Jay, a clinical psychologist renowned for her expertise in young adult development, shares invaluable insights on navigating your twenties. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth during this decade and discusses the realities of the quarter-life crisis. By rethinking generational narratives, she highlights the significance of clarity over certainty in decision-making. With practical advice on building identity capital and embracing uncertainty, Meg encourages twentysomethings to make proactive choices that pave the way for a fulfilling future.

Yuval Noah Harari, renowned historian and author of the bestseller Sapiens, dives deep into the complex relationship between justice and peace. He shares insights on how storytelling shapes our societal narratives, revealing the intricate conflicts between ideals of justice versus the pursuit of peace. The discussion touches on the impact of AI on communication and highlights the cognitive revolution's role in human evolution. Harari also explores the paradox of power and happiness, suggesting that some discomfort can drive progress.

Charan Ranganath, a psychologist and neuroscientist who directs the Dynamic Memory Lab at UC Davis, dives into the intricacies of memory. He discusses why we remember certain things while forgetting others and how learning occurs. Charan unpacks the pitfalls of common memory enhancement techniques and the portrayal of memory in media. He also examines the emotional toll of life changes on memory and identity, as well as the pandemic's impact on our recollections, emphasizing curiosity and engagement for better memory retention.

Ian Bremmer, a political scientist and founder of Eurasia Group, shares his insights on the intricacies of global politics and the unique complexities of 2024. He explores the cyclical nature of geopolitics and the crisis of democracy in the U.S., emphasizing the urgency for individual engagement. The conversation also touches on how global instability impacts leaders personally, the challenges of misinformation on social media, and the importance of diverse perspectives to navigate today's polarized environment.

will.i.am, the seven-time Grammy-winning frontman of The Black Eyed Peas, explores the intersection of music and technology. He shares insights about his role as the director of creative innovation at Intel and his groundbreaking projects, like streaming a song from Mars. The discussion dives deep into AI's potential in enhancing creativity and the delicate balance between human intuition and technological support. They also contemplate data ownership in an increasingly digital world and the essence of true creativity in the age of AI.