Worklife with Adam Grant

Brené Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston and bestselling author, dives deep into the transformative power of vulnerability in the workplace. She uncovers how shedding our armor can strengthen connections and enhance leadership. The conversation reveals the fine line between openness and boundaries while navigating tough discussions. Brown emphasizes that true vulnerability is about intentional sharing, urging listeners to embrace discomfort for personal and professional growth.

Maggie Smith, a poet and author renowned for her viral poem "Good Bones," shares her insights on navigating complex emotions and embracing ambiguity in life. She discusses the delicate balance between hope and hardship, reflecting on how poetry can encapsulate human experiences. Maggie highlights the importance of asking questions without clear answers and accepting emotional ambivalence. The conversation also covers the transformative power of writing and the significance of recognizing both positive and negative feelings for personal growth.

Rainn Wilson, best known for portraying Dwight Schrute on "The Office," discusses his journey from struggling actor to comedy superstar. He shares humorous tales from his career while diving deep into the struggles of fame and the importance of community. Rainn reflects on global happiness, exploring cultural practices that enhance connection and well-being. He emphasizes spiritual wellness, the power of optimism, and highlights creative activism around climate change, encouraging listeners to seek joy and purpose in their lives.

Join psychologist Barry Schwartz, known for his insights on decision-making, and applied mathematician Coco Krumme, who explores cultural attitudes toward optimization, as they unpack the pitfalls of perfectionism. They discuss the psychological costs of optimizing every aspect of life and the tension between maximizing options and settling for 'good enough.' The conversation leads to reflections on meaningful choices and societal pressures, ultimately advocating for a balance between efficiency and happiness.

George Saunders, an award-winning author and creative writing teacher, shares his eclectic path from roofer to literary giant. He discusses the importance of rough drafts and feedback in honing one's craft. The conversation dives into how kindness fuels creativity and the significance of aligning personal values with professional endeavors. Saunders also reflects on the art of crafting compelling endings and the challenges posed by AI in storytelling, stressing the enduring power of the human touch in writing.

Malcolm Gladwell, a renowned author and journalist known for his engaging insights, dives deep into Adam Grant’s new book on hidden potential. They challenge the myth of innate talent, discussing how perfectionism can stifle growth and grappling with impostor syndrome. The conversation flows into the intricacies of affirmative action, questioning societal perceptions and biases. With humor, they also touch on the emotional rollercoaster in sports fandoms and the impacts of rising parental expectations. A thought-provoking exchange on personal development!

Sophia Chang, the groundbreaking First Asian American woman in hip hop and manager of Wu-Tang Clan members, joins Belle Rose Reagans, an organizational psychologist specializing in mentoring. They unpack the myths surrounding mentorship and emphasize that character matters more than qualifications. The duo highlights mentorship's mutual growth dynamic, shows how vulnerability fosters deep connections, and discusses the transformative power of reverse mentoring. Their insights challenge traditional views and pave the way for more impactful mentoring relationships.

Marina Nitza, a tech entrepreneur and former CTO for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, delves into the paradox of bureaucracy. She explains how rigid structures can stifle creativity while also providing necessary order. The conversation highlights the absurdity of unnecessary rules and advocates for subtracting inefficiencies. Nitza shares strategies for effectively navigating complex systems and emphasizes the importance of hacking bad policies to foster positive change and collaboration in organizations.

In this conversation, Shashank Nijam, the Founder and CEO of SimpliFlying, discusses his innovative approach to vacation policies aimed at enhancing employee well-being. He emphasizes the importance of mandatory vacations and guilt-free time off for personal recovery. The discussion highlights how thoughtful breaks can boost productivity and creativity, transforming workplace culture. Shashank shares insights on engaging in mastery activities during off-hours, blending relaxation with personal growth for a fulfilling work-life balance.

Steven Rogelberg, an organizational psychologist and expert on meetings, discusses how unproductive gatherings drain joy and focus. He shares clever strategies to tackle meeting overload, such as a 'Meeting Doomsday' initiative that encourages a 48-hour reflection before rescheduling. Rogelberg emphasizes the importance of reducing attendees and fostering active participation to enhance productivity. He also highlights the impact of belonging and inclusion in improving workplace culture, advocating for a shift toward valuing efficiency over mere attendance.