ReThinking

Sharon McMahon, known as "America's Government Teacher," is a former high school educator who creates engaging content on politics. In this conversation, she explores how education shapes political discourse. She discusses the need for better qualifications for elected officials and the importance of public awareness in governance. They also tackle innovative ideas like using random selection for leaders and the introduction of educators into government for improved decision-making. A thought-provoking take on how to enhance democracy!

Reese Witherspoon, an Oscar-winning actress and successful entrepreneur known for iconic roles and her media company Hello Sunshine, shares her journey from self-doubt to confidence. She reveals how facing her fears led her to win an Oscar for Walk the Line. Reese discusses the importance of recognizing her limitations, which helped her build a thriving company focused on women's stories. They dive into themes of imposter syndrome, storytelling, and the significance of resilience in personal and professional growth.

Saul Perlmutter, a Nobel Prize-winning astrophysicist famous for uncovering the universe's accelerating expansion, discusses the evolution of scientific knowledge and the emotional aspects of discovery. He shares insights about the importance of humility and confidence in tackling global challenges. The conversation delves into misconceptions about cosmic expansion, the significance of critical thinking, and how scientific methods can enhance decision-making in various fields. Ultimately, they explore questions about the universe's fate and humanity's role in understanding it.

Celeste Ng, a New York Times bestselling author known for her gripping novels like "Everything I Never Told You" and "Little Fires Everywhere," shares her journey from aspiring writer to literary sensation. She discusses her versatile writing process and the art of observation that shapes her storytelling. The conversation dives into the balance between personal experiences and the craft of writing, alongside insights on navigating dystopian themes in her work. Ng also reflects on the challenges of balancing creativity with family life.

Chantel Prat, a cognitive neuroscientist and author of "The Neuroscience of You," challenges misconceptions about brain function. She debunks the myth of left-brain versus right-brain personalities, revealing how verbal skills can be more crucial than math skills in learning to code. Chantel's research highlights the vital role of individual brain differences in learning, curiosity, and personal identity, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique cognitive styles. Get ready to rethink how you perceive your brain's potential!

Atul Gawande, a renowned surgeon and best-selling author, shares insights into his multifaceted career, where he navigates between medicine and writing for The New Yorker. He discusses the transformative power of coaching—even in the operating room—highlighting how it enhances performance. Gawande also addresses the stress and burnout faced by healthcare workers during the pandemic, emphasizing the need for support and resilience. His commitment to public health extends to initiatives aimed at preventing future crises, showcasing his dedication to impactful change.

Alex Honnold, the legendary free solo climber famous for scaling El Capitan without ropes, shares his thrilling insights on managing fear. He discusses his unique emotional regulation techniques while climbing, emphasizing the importance of mental preparation and self-talk in high-stakes situations. Honnold reflects on what still scares him and how he channels fear into motivation. The conversation also touches on personal growth through extreme challenges and the adventurous mindset that inspires others to confront their own limitations.

Mark Cuban, a serial entrepreneur and Shark Tank investor, discusses his journey from selling garbage bags to owning the Dallas Mavericks. He emphasizes turning problems into opportunities, particularly through his online pharmacy, Cost Plus Drugs, aimed at reducing medication costs. Cuban challenges the notion of following passion for motivation, advocating instead for practical decision-making in entrepreneurship. The conversation also touches on transparency in healthcare and the evolving dynamics of teamwork in sports, highlighting leadership's importance.

Award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay, known for her groundbreaking work on 'Selma' and 'A Wrinkle in Time', shares her journey from publicist to trailblazer in the film industry. She discusses the patience required to pursue her dreams and the evolving nature of her leadership style. Ava reflects on the powerful lessons learned from studying Dr. King, the complexities of identity in career choices, and the vital role of storytelling in effective leadership. Tune in for insights on the art of filmmaking and inspiring future generations.

Satya Nadella, the Chairman and CEO of Microsoft, is renowned for his transformative leadership style. He discusses the evolution of work culture, transitioning to flexible and hybrid models that prioritize collaboration. Satya highlights the importance of psychological safety, advocating for vulnerability in leadership to foster trust among teams. He also shares his passion for cricket and poetry, emphasizing the need for empathy in diverse work environments. Lastly, he touches on the impact of technology across various sectors, aiming to democratize access and enhance lives.