ReThinking

In this engaging discussion, will.i.am, a seven-time Grammy winner and tech innovator, shares his unique journey bridging music and technology. He reveals insights into his creative process and the potential of AI in reshaping artistic expression. The conversation covers music integration in autonomous vehicles, the collaboration between humans and AI, and the emotional connections people have with music. will.i.am also expresses his hopes and concerns about the future of creativity in an increasingly automated world.

Cal Newport, a computer science professor at Georgetown and bestselling author, shares insights from his latest book, Slow Productivity. He advocates for a 'slow work' philosophy, encouraging higher quality over quantity in tasks to combat burnout. The conversation delves into the benefits of no-meeting days and critiques the four-day workweek, emphasizing the importance of better workload management. Newport also discusses the complexities of productivity, urging a mindful approach to technology and communication, including email etiquette, to foster healthier work environments.

In this engaging discussion, Sarah Edmondson, a former NXIVM recruit and podcast host of "A Little Bit Culty," shares her insights on the red flags of cult-like behavior. With humor and clarity, she highlights the seductive nature of charismatic leaders and the psychological impact of belonging. Sarah emphasizes the importance of loyalty to principles over people and explores how manipulation can seep into organizations. Her personal experiences shed light on the fine line between healthy influence and harmful control.

In this conversation, Robin Arzón, head instructor at Peloton and ultramarathon runner, shares her inspiring transformation from a legal career to fitness stardom. She discusses the pitfalls of hustle culture, emphasizing the importance of momentum over fleeting motivation. Robin reveals how small actions can create lasting change and the power of community in fitness journeys. They explore the balance between ambition and self-care, stressing that personal growth is a continuous journey worth embracing.

Denise Hamilton, an inclusion strategist and author of 'Indivisible,' shares her insights on navigating the complexities of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. She discusses the pain of letting go of old narratives and the importance of fostering respectful dialogue around uncomfortable truths. Denise emphasizes the idea of indivisibility, highlighting how individual contributions strengthen teams. She also explores the true nature of heroism and personal responsibility in societal change, urging listeners to redefine their understanding of authenticity amidst societal pressures.

Jared Cohen, an expert in global affairs and innovation, shares fascinating insights from his career at the State Department and Google, along with his upcoming book, Life After Power. He dives into the lives of former presidents, examining how figures like John Quincy Adams and George W. Bush found new fulfillment post-office. The discussion also covers the psychology of the founding fathers, the pursuit of legacy, and the emotional challenges leaders face after leaving power, offering valuable lessons on purpose and personal growth.

In this lively chat, Bob Sutton, a Stanford organizational psychologist and bestselling author, explores how leaders can become 'friction-fixers' at work. He shares insights on the importance of active listening and self-awareness in navigating workplace dynamics. Sutton highlights the surprising benefits of inconvenience and argues that being a boring leader can actually be a strategic advantage. He also touches on the dangers of sham participation and the necessity of engaging directly with teams for effective communication.

Susan David, a Harvard Medical School psychologist and author of "Emotional Agility," joins the conversation to explore the crucial concept of emotional agility. She highlights the dangers of toxic positivity and the importance of acknowledging all emotions, even the difficult ones. David discusses the value of genuine optimism over forced positivity, and how self-awareness can enhance personal growth. She also delves into the complex relationship between guilt and personal values, promoting compassionate emotional awareness to navigate challenges effectively.

Lisa Feldman Barrett, a distinguished psychologist and neuroscientist at Northeastern University and Harvard Medical School, challenges our understanding of emotions. She reveals that emotions can be transformed by how we think and talk about them. Listeners learn that reframing feelings—like viewing anxiety as determination—can empower emotional management. The rich vocabulary of emotions across cultures is discussed, and Barrett busts myths about emotional control, presenting techniques for mastering resilience. Her insights shed light on the amygdala’s complex role in shaping our emotional experiences.

In a lively conversation, award-winning actress Jennifer Garner, known for her iconic roles in Alias and Juno, delves into her journey of self-discovery and growth. She and Adam explore the surprising factors behind character building and long-term success. They dream up an ideal school, touch on the challenges of balancing Type A and Type Z parenting, and highlight the transformative power of embracing vulnerability. Garner also shares her commitment to empowering communities and the importance of kindness and mentorship in personal development.