Worklife with Adam Grant

Diego Rodriguez, Global Managing Director at IDEO, discusses the pitfalls of hiring for culture fit and champions cultural contribution instead. He argues that emphasizing conformity can stifle innovation and overlook talented individuals. Through engaging anecdotes, Rodriguez shares how embracing diverse perspectives leads to greater creativity and better organizational outcomes. He highlights the powerful role cultural misfits play in driving innovation and the necessity of adapting hiring practices to foster an inclusive environment.

Join John Legend, a multi-talented musician and advocate, as he shares his journey from consulting to chart-topping hits. He reveals the creative process behind 'Ordinary People,' highlighting the importance of improvisation and universal themes. Hear about his family-focused album 'My Favorite Dream,' inspired by parenting moments and emotional connections. Legend discusses balancing artistry with social justice, the impact of AI in creativity, and shares insightful career advice, showcasing his passion for music and advocacy.

Diego Rodriguez, the Global Managing Director at IDEO, joins the discussion on the power of status over traditional notions of power in achieving success. They explore how embracing authenticity can enhance workplace relationships and promote individual expression. The conversation dives into the importance of diversity in fostering creativity and innovation, illustrated by stories like the design of Apple's first mouse. Listeners gain insights into building inclusive teams that value unique perspectives, ultimately leading to more impactful organizational success.

Join Sarah Silverman, the iconic comedian known for her sharp wit and fearless commentary, as she shares her journey of transforming online trolls into fans. She and Adam discuss the importance of kindness and courage when facing criticism, illustrating how humor can bridge divides. Silverman reflects on personal growth from childhood friendships and the necessity of empathy in resolving conflicts. Plus, she opens up about coping with grief through laughter, leading to her upcoming tribute tour. Expect insightful conversations peppered with humor!

Jay Van Bavel, a professor of psychology and neural science at NYU, dives into the intriguing world of online behavior. He reveals how negative news captures our attention more than positive stories, driven by our brains' negativity bias. The conversation explores the toxic impact of doom scrolling on mental health and the need for curating uplifting content instead. Jay also discusses finding common ground in divisive times and highlights insights from his book, The Power of Us, showcasing the potential for unity online.

Danielle Allen, a Harvard professor of public policy and political philosophy, shares her insights on improving education and democracy. She tackles the current culture on college campuses and emphasizes the importance of fostering diverse perspectives for meaningful debate. Discussions include the need for moral reasoning and productive dialogue, as well as the complexities of campus protests in the digital age. Allen also advocates for reforms that improve citizen engagement and create inclusive environments that promote critical thinking.

Trevor Noah, comedian and former host of The Daily Show, discusses the significance of context in communication and relationships. He shares personal anecdotes illustrating how misunderstandings can arise from a lack of clarity, affecting everything from social media interactions to political discourse. The conversation also explores American culture, decision-making approaches, and innovative ideas for political debates. With humor and insight, Trevor connects comedy and psychology, shedding light on how humor reflects human behavior.

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.