Knowledge at Wharton

Harbir Singh and Mike Useem, Wharton management professors and co-authors, dive into their book on Japan's corporate resurgence. They discuss the transformative leadership models that are reshaping Japanese companies, emphasizing innovation and adaptability. The conversation covers how the perception of failure is shifting towards a growth opportunity, and how decentralization of decision-making is fostering employee engagement. They also share insights on how these concepts can benefit leaders across various cultures, blending traditional and modern practices for success.

Rebecca (Becky) Schaumberg, a Wharton professor specializing in interpersonal communication, sheds light on the intriguing dynamics of listening and disagreement. She explains how the perception of listening often hinges on agreement rather than actual skills. Engaging research reveals that listeners who disagree may be unfairly labeled as bad listeners. This conversation dives into the importance of recognizing authentic engagement in communication, especially in leadership, challenging the misconception that agreement equates to understanding.

Listen to a special episode from Where AI Works, a new podcast hosted by Wharton faculty, sponsored by Accenture. The show dives into how artificial intelligence is transforming the way we live and work, with real-world stories and insights from leaders across industries. In this episode, host Kartik Hosanagar speaks with David Droga, founder of Droga5 and current CEO of Accenture Song, to explore how AI is transforming the worlds of marketing, advertising, and creative work. From shifting agency dynamics to the evolving role of human imagination, Droga offers an inside look at what the creative industries need to embrace — and question — as AI tools grow more powerful. Tune in to hear how one of the world’s top advertising leaders sees the future of creativity in the age of automation. Follow and listen to more of Where AI Works here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Virtual influencers are more effective when paired with a companion, which makes them seem more human and trustworthy, according to research from Wharton's Jonah Berger, USC Marshall’s Giovanni Luca Cascio Rizzo, and LUISS Guido Carli University’s Francisco Villarroel Ordenes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wharton Deputy Dean Nancy Rothbard talks about how social media has changed office culture by giving colleagues a way to connect with each other outside of work. This Ripple Effect podcast episode is part of a series on “Wellness at Work.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Companies can benefit from the experience and flexibility of older workers, says Wharton’s Peter Cappelli. What will it take for employers to stop age discrimination and change their approach to retirement? This Ripple Effect episode is part of a series on “Navigating Retirement.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wharton vice dean for executive education Patti Williams talks with Jennifer Tejada, CEO of digital operations management firm PagerDuty, about the importance of having an “ownership mindset,” understanding your users, and preparing for big changes like the advent of AI. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode, listen to curated excerpts from the Ripple Effect podcast on women’s leadership, workplace equity, and career advancement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kevin Werbach, a leading authority on business, law, and technology, shares insights from his work at the Wharton Accountable AI Lab. He highlights the importance of structured accountability in AI to balance its benefits with potential risks. The discussion navigates the evolving complexities of AI governance and the unique challenges organizations face. Werbach also examines how ethical dilemmas in AI parallel those of past technologies like the internet and blockchain, advocating for a nuanced approach to AI that balances fear, celebration, and caution.

Management professor Valentina Assenova discusses why digital platforms, like mobile money platforms, are improving financial access around the world. This Ripple Effect podcast episode is part of a series on “Innovation” that was produced in cooperation with Mack Institute for Innovation Management. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.