Adam Galinsky, a Professor at Columbia Business School and author of "Inspire," shares insights on inspirational leadership. He discusses the three pillars: having a vision, setting an example, and mentoring others. Galinsky highlights how effective communication fosters trust, especially in uncertain times. He also contrasts traits that inspire with those that frustrate, encouraging leaders to self-reflect for improvement. This conversation is a treasure trove for anyone looking to energize their team and enhance their leadership skills.

Marc Zao-Sanders, CEO of Filtered.com and author of "Timeboxing: The Power of Doing One Thing at a Time," shares insights on the productivity technique of timeboxing. He emphasizes the benefits of focusing on single tasks and merging your to-do list with your calendar. Zao-Sanders discusses how this approach enhances productivity, reduces anxiety, and fosters collaboration within teams. He also highlights the importance of flexibility when facing interruptions, ensuring that productivity remains achievable.

Gianpiero Petriglieri, an associate professor at INSEAD and expert in leadership and learning, delves into how leaders foster effective learning in organizations. He categorizes approaches into custodians, challengers, and connectors, explaining which styles thrive in various contexts. The discussion emphasizes the importance of upskilling and creating inclusive environments that balance diverse perspectives. Petriglieri underscores the foundational role of understanding the purpose of learning in leadership, promoting innovation and collaboration.

Julian De Freitas, an assistant professor at Harvard Business School, dives into the consumer psychology behind AI adoption. He identifies five key barriers that make people hesitant about AI, such as its perceived opacity and lack of emotional intelligence. Through real-life examples, he explains how businesses can make AI feel more relatable and encourage user acceptance. De Freitas also discusses the importance of maintaining user control in AI systems and the complex human factors influencing technology adoption in various industries.

Iris Bohnet and Siri Chilazi, both from the Harvard Kennedy School and co-authors of "Make Work Fair," dive into the complex landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. They discuss the tension between these initiatives and meritocracy, advocating for fairness as a universal principle. Their research reveals how biases impact advancement and importance of data-driven solutions. The duo emphasizes strategic goal-setting to enhance organizational fairness and highlights the need for open dialogue to foster genuine inclusivity.

Mike Colias, deputy bureau chief at The Wall Street Journal and author of 'Inevitable,' navigates the electrifying world of electric vehicles. He discusses the unpredictable challenges facing both entrenched giants like GM and Ford and dynamic newcomers like Tesla. Colias highlights the shifting consumer landscape, the innovator's dilemma, and the competitive tensions amplified by global players. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to regulatory pressures and consumer demands, showcasing valuable lessons for all industries.

Deborah Perry-Paschone, co-founder and CEO of Work3 Institute and co-author of "Employment is Dead," explores the seismic shifts in employment due to technology. She discusses how generative AI and blockchain are reshaping traditional work models, urging a pivot toward gig economies and decentralized workforces. Deborah highlights the importance of upskilling and adaptability, emphasizing that continuous learning is crucial for thriving in a competitive landscape. The conversation paints a vivid picture of a future where flexible roles and collaboration redefine our work experiences.

Dan Heath, a senior fellow at Duke University's Fuqua School of Business and author of "Reset: How to Change What’s Not Working," dives into the complexities of transforming dysfunctional work systems. He discusses the challenges teams face when initiating change and shares strategies for overcoming resistance. Heath emphasizes the importance of making problems visible and taking small steps toward progress. With real-life examples, he illustrates how leaders can reallocate resources effectively and improve customer relationships while fostering organizational growth.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Sunita Sah, a Cornell professor and author of "Defy: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes," explores the often-overlooked power of saying no. She emphasizes how societal pressures can stifle individual voices in the workplace. Dr. Sah introduces a framework for evaluating compliance versus defiance, offering strategies to assert personal values effectively. Listeners learn the importance of timing and emotional complexity when saying no, ultimately encouraging a culture of open communication and respect.

Ellen Hendriksen, a clinical psychologist at Boston University's Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders and author of 'How to Be Enough,' dives into the complexities of perfectionism. She discusses its dual nature—how it fuels success yet can lead to dissatisfaction and strained relationships. Hendriksen shares insights on balancing high standards with self-care, the risk of growth stifled by fear, and the impact of perfectionism on collaboration in the workplace. Her practical advice encourages self-compassion and flexibility, promoting healthier professional dynamics.