HBR IdeaCast

Larry Summers, the former U.S. Treasury Secretary and President Emeritus of Harvard University, shares his insights on navigating today's economic landscape. He discusses the potential economic downturn in 2025, the implications of U.S.-China tensions, and how tariffs affect American consumers. Summers emphasizes the importance of flexibility for businesses amid AI advancements, urging leaders to lean on their core strengths. He also reflects on Silicon Valley's ideological shift and the evolving labor market, providing a roadmap for resilience and adaptation.

Shannon Watts shares her journey from personal tragedy to leading a movement for gun safety. She emphasizes the power of coalition-building and how aligning personal values can drive activism. The effectiveness of grassroots campaigns like the 'momcott' demonstrates how consumer actions can shift corporate policies. Watts also discusses the challenges of balancing activism with personal life and the importance of strategic networking for women leaders. Ultimately, she inspires listeners to turn their passions into meaningful change.

Peter Cappelli, a Wharton professor and co-author of the forthcoming book on hybrid work, joins senior HR strategist Ranya Nehmeh to tackle the challenges of hybrid work models. They discuss how these setups often lead to the worst of both worlds. Important insights include the need for intentional management strategies to boost employee engagement and productivity. They also emphasize enhancing workplace culture through better communication and relationship-building in hybrid settings, providing practical tips for companies to succeed in this new normal.

Jacinda Ardern, the former prime minister of New Zealand, reflects on her leadership during numerous crises, from natural disasters to the pandemic. She discusses the necessity of transparent communication and expert collaboration, even in chaotic times. Ardern shares insights on overcoming imposter syndrome and highlights the importance of resilience in leadership. She also touches on her personal journey from a struggling forestry community and the values that shaped her approach to politics, emphasizing authenticity and responsibility.

Jeff Yip, an assistant professor of management at Simon Fraser University, dives into the art of listening as a vital leadership skill. He reveals the five major mistakes leaders make, often thinking they’re good listeners when they’re not. Enhancing town hall meetings for better communication and navigating defensiveness in feedback are crucial strategies he discusses. Yip emphasizes the need for follow-up actions after listening to maintain trust and prevent cynicism, along with practical techniques like the 'five second rule' for richer dialogues.

In this engaging discussion, Telle Whitney, a veteran Silicon Valley engineer and cofounder of the Grace Hopper Celebration, advocates for a much-needed reboot in the tech industry. She argues that the current culture is too exclusionary, which stifles innovation and leads to subpar products. Whitney highlights the importance of diversity in fostering creativity and effective leadership, urging companies to adopt inclusive practices. She also emphasizes the role of diverse perspectives in AI development as essential for a more ethical and innovative tech future.

Barry Diller, the influential Chairman of IAC and Expedia, shares insights from his remarkable career in media and entertainment. He emphasizes the power of intuition over rigid analysis and highlights the importance of navigating strong personalities. Diller discusses how to embrace the journey of business, stressing process over mere outcomes. He also predicts AI's transformative impact on content creation and audience engagement, while offering wisdom on leadership and resilience in the face of modern challenges.

Whitney Johnson, CEO of Disruption Advisors, specializes in guiding individuals through career changes. She shares crucial insights on managing the emotional impact of job loss while emphasizing self-reflection, positivity, and leveraging personal networks. Johnson encourages viewing unemployment as a chance to develop new skills and reassess long-term goals, tailoring advice for various life situations. Listeners will gain practical strategies for resilience and recovery, preparing them to embrace change in a fast-evolving job market.

Andy Jassy, the CEO of Amazon and former protégé of Jeff Bezos, shares insights on navigating leadership in a complex, tech-driven world. He discusses his push for a five-day return to office policy amid evolving workplace dynamics. Jassy emphasizes the need for agility in large organizations and how reducing managerial layers can stimulate innovation. He also explores Amazon's cutting-edge AI strategy, detailing how it focuses on foundational technology while enhancing customer experiences with innovative tools.

A fresh sound and engaging format are on the horizon for listeners. The podcast introduces a new co-host, promising deeper insights from C-suite executives. Expect expert perspectives on pressing leadership challenges and interactive audience involvement. Innovating content and fostering engagement are key themes, making this an exciting time for followers.