ReThinking

Join John Green, best-selling author of 'The Fault in Our Stars' and co-creator of Crash Course, as he discusses his book 'Everything is Tuberculosis' and the fight against diseases of injustice. He highlights the inequalities surrounding tuberculosis and its impact on vulnerable populations. Green also delves into the issues of book banning, the creative process, and the importance of embracing imperfection. Along the way, he shares personal anecdotes and strategies to stay motivated and find meaning in the writing journey.

In this enlightening discussion, Ron Chernow, a Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer known for his deep dives into iconic figures like Alexander Hamilton, shares his insights on what drives remarkable Americans. He offers a sneak peek into his new book on Mark Twain, exploring the complexities of Twain’s character and the women who shaped his life. Chernow also delves into the art of biography, emphasizing the selection of impactful subjects and the evolving narratives surrounding historical giants like Hamilton and Rockefeller.

Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, shares her insights on empathetic leadership and the challenges of self-doubt. She discusses her unexpected entry into politics and how compassion shaped her responses during crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Ardern reflects on overcoming 'tall poppy syndrome' and the importance of kindness in leadership. The conversation also touches on navigating personal milestones amidst public scrutiny and the integral role of resilience and optimism in inspiring change.

Susan Dominus, a staff writer at the New York Times and author of The Family Dynamic, dives into the powerful yet often overlooked influence of siblings on personal growth and success. She discusses how sibling relationships can shape our achievements more than parental actions. The conversation reveals insights on the interplay of nature and nurture, the effects of birth order, and the emotional dynamics that define sibling connections. Dominus highlights the unique roles siblings play in developing identities and providing crucial support throughout life.

Join Tara Darrow, T-Mobile's VP known for managing diverse teams, as she tackles the nuances of bridging generational divides. The conversation dives deep into the challenges of giving feedback while ensuring psychological safety, highlighting the need for honest leadership. Misconceptions about Gen Z are debunked, showcasing their true work ethic and eagerness to engage. They explore the evolving workplace culture and the crucial communication strategies necessary for collaboration across all ages, ultimately aiming to foster understanding and inclusivity.

Nicole Smith, a journalist turned newsroom manager, and Jennifer Deal, a senior research scientist specializing in generational workplace dynamics, tackle the exaggerated stereotypes surrounding different age groups. They discuss how perceived generational differences can actually obstruct collaboration rather than enhance it. Smith shares her experiences navigating the divide between seasoned print journalists and younger digital natives. The conversation highlights that workplace conflicts often arise from issues of status and respect, not age, urging a shift in focus to individual capabilities.

Michael McCullough, a UC San Diego psychology professor and a pioneer in forgiveness studies, joins Adam Grant to delve into the intricacies of forgiveness. They discuss why forgiveness is essential for emotional health yet not always a solution to conflict. The conversation explores how humans evolved to forgive, the psychology behind grudges, and the delicate balance of seeking and granting forgiveness in relationships. Additionally, they tackle the cultural influences on forgiveness and its transformative effects on mental well-being.

In this engaging discussion, Beth Polin, a management professor specializing in apologies, and Mark Gallagher, an executive with a Formula One background, share fascinating insights on the art of apology. They delve into the complex elements that make an apology effective, highlighting the five R's: regret, rationale, responsibility, repentance, and repair. The duo also explores real-world examples from pre-K classrooms to high-stakes pit stops, revealing how sincere apologies can mend relationships and foster accountability in both personal and professional realms.

Jia Tolentino, a prominent writer at The New Yorker and author of "Trick Mirror," dives deep into the perils of identity capitalism. She discusses how our online personas have become commodified, leading to unique pressures to present ourselves as marketable products. The conversation explores the psychological toll of self-surveillance and the impact on authenticity in the age of social media. Tolentino argues for a reevaluation of self-worth beyond personal branding, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections and community engagement.

In a world obsessed with personal branding, the podcast delves into the pitfalls of self-promotion. It questions the authenticity of crafted images and explores the value of genuine connections. Listeners learn that promoting ideas and contributions can be more impactful than focusing on oneself. The concept of a 'failure resume' emphasizes vulnerability as a pathway to authenticity. Humor and integrity also play vital roles in building reputation, suggesting that true success comes from collaboration rather than personal marketing.