HBR IdeaCast

High-achievers often overlook the need for joy amidst their busy lives. Professor Leslie Perlow shares how meaningful activities can enhance satisfaction and leadership effectiveness. She advocates for quality over quantity in free time and emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries to prioritize personal fulfillment. The discussion also highlights the role of joy beyond work in improving job performance, urging individuals to engage in diverse pursuits while managing their hectic schedules.

Peter T. Coleman, a professor at Teachers College, Columbia University, delves into the critical concept of conflict intelligence. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability and creativity in resolving workplace disputes, especially as modern tensions rise. Coleman shares key strategies for leaders to foster healthy organizational dialogue, navigate political discussions, and balance social initiatives amidst differing viewpoints. His insights aim to enhance conflict resolution skills, ultimately cultivating a positive company culture.

Explore the untapped potential of AI beyond mere search functions. Alexandra Samuel discusses how to create AI assistants that enhance productivity and decision-making. Learn about the importance of tailoring AI interactions, training strategies, and data security. Discover how custom AI can assist in personal growth and professional tasks, while emphasizing the need for relational dynamics in technology. Embrace AI as a co-creator for a more efficient and innovative work environment.

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.