ReThinking

Baratunde Thurston, an Emmy-nominated writer and cultural critic, joins David Dunning, a renowned psychologist, to delve into the fascinating Dunning-Kruger effect. They discuss how limited knowledge can lead to overconfidence and the importance of self-awareness. The conversation touches on the dangers of 'doing your own research' and offers strategies for combating overconfidence, both for amateurs and experts. They also explore the role of emotional intelligence in connecting with others and the necessity of shared experiences in overcoming cognitive disagreements.

Mellody Hobson, President and co-CEO of Ariel Investments and a pioneering voice for diversity in finance, shares insights on navigating tough feedback with grace. She discusses the art of extracting valuable lessons from criticism and the role it plays in personal growth. Mellody emphasizes the importance of honest communication and the need for empathy when delivering feedback. Through personal anecdotes, she highlights the power of resilience and mentorship, while advocating for a future where diverse voices are empowered in professional environments.

Anne Curzan, a linguist and English professor at the University of Michigan, dives into the fascinating world of language evolution. She and Adam explore Gen-Z slang, debating the relevance of traditional grammar rules versus modern communication styles. They discuss how language is shaped by generational shifts, sharing humorous anecdotes along the way. Curzan emphasizes the importance of embracing linguistic fluidity and curiosity in understanding contemporary discourse, all while promoting her latest book, "Says Who?".

Gabrielle Zevin, an acclaimed novelist known for her bestseller Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, shares her insights on navigating failure and creativity. She discusses how setbacks can foster resilience and inspire new beginnings. The importance of intrinsic motivation over external validation comes to light, alongside the emotional journey of writing. Zevin also highlights the delicate balance of solitude and collaboration, and the complexities of crafting relatable characters and relationships in storytelling.

Richard Branson, the visionary founder of the Virgin Group, shares his insights from a lifetime of entrepreneurship. He discusses the importance of courage and embracing risks for personal growth, while humorously revealing how he overcame challenges like shyness and dyslexia. Branson reflects on the evolution of commercial spaceflight and his aspirations for making it accessible. He also advocates for a shift in drug policy towards a public health perspective, intertwining personal anecdotes with his thoughts on leadership and competition.

Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada since 2015, shares his insights on leadership and personal growth. He opens up about his struggles with impostor syndrome and how he maintains resilience against public criticism. Trudeau highlights the importance of authenticity and community connection in leadership. He discusses the emotional challenges leaders face, the impact of public scrutiny, and the need for empathy. Additionally, he reflects on the urgency for leaders to engage with their communities during global crises, all while balancing personal well-being.

Rebecca Solnit, an acclaimed American writer known for her essays on hope and social issues, joins the conversation to explore the pitfalls of online discourse. She critiques how social media diminishes meaningful dialogue and promotes uninformed opinions. The discussion touches on women's silence regarding trauma and the need for genuine conversation in a polarized digital world. Solnit emphasizes the importance of recalibrating our views and fostering authentic connections, highlighting hope and change as vital for navigating today’s challenges.

John Green, bestselling author known for works like 'The Fault in Our Stars,' discusses the importance of mindfulness in evaluating human progress. He shares insights from his experience rating everything on a five-point scale, from wonder to Canadian geese. The conversation dives into how personal narratives can transform experiences and reviews. Green also reflects on the flow during simple activities like driving and gaming, exploring how reducing distractions enhances presence and joy. His thoughts on remote work, mental health, and the allure of YA literature offer a profound look into attention's role in our lives.

Brian Chesky, CEO and co-founder of Airbnb, shares insights on building trust in both hospitality and leadership. He emphasizes the importance of leading with compassion, especially during crises like the pandemic. Chesky advocates for transparent communication to support employees through tough decisions. He discusses the evolving future of work, highlighting the need for flexibility and collaboration, while also addressing the balance between remote work and personal connections to combat loneliness in the workplace.

Aza Raskin, co-founder of the Center for Humane Technology and the Earth Species Project, is a forward-thinking advocate for ethical technology. He discusses the consequences of his own creation, the infinite scroll, and emphasizes the need for humane tech that promotes well-being. Aza delves into his groundbreaking work decoding animal communication, particularly with whales and gelada monkeys, and explores how understanding these creatures can enrich our connection with nature and inform societal issues, including mental health and climate change.