ReThinking

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.

Linda Babcock, a renowned economics professor at Carnegie Mellon and co-author of 'The No Club,' dives into the complex dynamics of workplace commitments. She highlights how women disproportionately take on non-promotable tasks and shares insights on setting effective boundaries. The conversation touches on the significance of collective support in asserting 'no,' navigating the pitfalls of overcommitment, and innovative strategies for time management. Babcock's research encourages listeners to prioritize their time and redefine their professional relationships.

In this enlightening discussion, Vanessa Bonds, a Cornell professor and author, teams up with Sherry Liu, founder of the Eldest Daughter Club, to tackle the delicate art of saying 'no.' They explore the challenges faced by people-pleasers and offer practical strategies for setting boundaries in both personal and professional relationships. The conversation touches on societal pressures, the emotional toll of refusal, and the transformative power of a compassionate 'no.' Listeners will gain valuable insights on prioritizing their own needs while maintaining healthier connections.

Shonda Rhimes, the mastermind behind iconic shows like Grey's Anatomy and Bridgerton, joins Adam Grant for an engaging discussion. She reflects on her journey from law and medicine to storytelling, emphasizing the importance of representation and taking risks. Shonda shares insights from her memoir, Year of Yes, and explores how storytelling can change lives. The conversation also touches on creative leadership, the value of constructive feedback, and the emotional impact of Alzheimer's on families, showcasing her depth as both a creator and a person.