ReThinking

Rachel Botsman, a leading expert on trust and author of "How to Trust and Be Trusted," dives deep into the complexities of trust in our modern world. She redefines trust, revealing why we often misplace it and challenging the belief that transparency is always the answer. Botsman explores how emotional depth during interviews can reveal true character and emphasizes the importance of direct communication in fostering authentic relationships. She also critiques the declining trust in institutions and advocates for community-driven solutions.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI and a pivotal figure in AI innovation, shares insights on AI's potential to enhance creativity and empathy. He discusses the ethical dilemmas surrounding rapid AI advancements and emphasizes the need for human oversight. Altman and his host delve into the balance between technology and genuine human connections, stressing the importance of adapting to a shifting world while maintaining core human values. They also explore the complexities of decision-making in AI, urging for human-centered ethics amidst the technological revolution.

Merve Emre, an Associate Professor of English at the University of Oxford and a contributor to The New Yorker, discusses the dark side of emotional intelligence. She reveals how this concept, often seen as beneficial, has been weaponized by corporations for control over employees. Emre scrutinizes its origins, the socio-economic factors at play, and the superficial nature of corporate emotional intelligence training. The conversation delves into emotional labor's complexities, advocating for a more genuine approach in workplaces that values authentic emotional expression.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus, the award-winning actress known for her iconic roles in Seinfeld and Veep, dives deep into the intersection of comedy and truth. She discusses her recent film, Tuesday, navigating themes of grief and death while sharing insights from her podcast Wiser Than Me where she connects with women over 70. Julia touches on the risks and rewards of modern comedy, the importance of authenticity, and her views on the commercialization of art. Her reflections reveal how personal stories can foster connection and illuminate life's complexities.

Halla Tómasdóttir, the newly elected President of Iceland, shares her inspiring journey from self-doubt to leadership. She discusses overcoming impostor syndrome and the importance of listening in building trust with constituents. Halla reveals the origins and significance of the 'scarf revolution,' emphasizing unity and positive campaigning. She also explores Iceland's innovative spirit and the need for inclusivity in leadership, making a case for resilience and collaboration in tackling global challenges.

Mark Rober, a former NASA engineer and the most-followed science YouTuber, shares his journey from space tech to viral videos. He explains the blend of engineering and humor that captivates audiences, especially kids. Conversations reveal the importance of storytelling and authenticity in engaging viewers. Rober also discusses the allure of Mars exploration to inspire youth and highlights fascinating projects like Crunch Labs, merging play with critical thinking. Expect a dose of creativity and passion in making science fun!

In this engaging discussion, Jane Goodall, a legendary ethologist and UN Messenger of Peace, shares her groundbreaking insights into leadership derived from primate behavior. She draws parallels between chimpanzee social structures and human dynamics, emphasizing empathy and collaboration. Goodall highlights the necessity of humility and feminine traits like compassion in effective leadership. She also reflects on the importance of patience in both science and motherhood, advocating for proactive engagement in environmental activism. A captivating conversation full of wisdom!

Nathan Myhrvold, a modern-day Renaissance man known for his pioneering work at Microsoft, explores the essence of invention and creativity. He discusses the importance of curiosity nurtured from childhood and shares his experiences collaborating with Stephen Hawking. The conversation highlights how diverse perspectives can ignite innovation and unlock creativity. Myhrvold emphasizes that having great ideas means little without effective execution and advocates for the value of neurodiversity in solving problems, leaving listeners inspired to embrace their own inventive journeys.

Nick Cowen, a criminologist at the University of Lincoln, explores innovative crime prevention strategies. He shares insights on how societal norms and incentives led to a significant decline in drunk driving fatalities in the UK. The conversation dives into the complexities of human behavior, examining the impact of community standards and moral obligations on crime rates. Additionally, Nick discusses how evolving perceptions of violence can reshape societal attitudes toward risky behaviors, highlighting the importance of preventative measures in crime fighting.

Malcolm Gladwell, famed author of hits like 'The Tipping Point,' discusses the importance of self-correction with host Adam at the Authors@Wharton series. They dig into Gladwell's latest reflections on past ideas and how personal mistakes can lead to growth. The conversation covers strategies for coping with failure, rethinking college admissions, and the value of diverse feedback cultures. They even debate the intriguing link between fashion choices and social anxiety while exchanging humorous takes on reading habits.