HBR IdeaCast

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.

Matthew Weinzierl, a Harvard Business School professor and co-author of "Space to Grow," teams up with Brendan Rosseau, a strategy manager at Blue Origin. They discuss the shift from a government-led space industry to a thriving private market. The duo highlights how reducing costs have opened doors for new companies and showcases innovation opportunities in space, including ventures like pharmaceuticals and data centers. They also stress the ongoing importance of government support in this rapidly evolving frontier.

Neri Karra Sillaman, an entrepreneurship expert at Oxford University and founder of Neri Karra luxury leather goods, delves into how immigrant entrepreneurs achieve lasting success. She highlights resilience as a crucial trait, emphasizing how rejection fuels growth. Sillaman shares compelling stories, including one from a Bulgarian immigrant who navigated cultural challenges. Additionally, the importance of kindness and community ties is discussed as essential strategies for thriving in a new business landscape, especially amidst rising anti-immigrant sentiment.

Melody Wilding, an executive coach and author of 'Managing Up,' shares insights on navigating the complex dynamics of managing those above you in the workplace. She highlights the importance of alignment conversations to clarify priorities and ensure mutual understanding with your boss. Wilding also discusses communication styles, emphasizing the balance between dominance and sociability for better collaboration. Plus, she offers strategies for salary negotiations, urging listeners to advocate for themselves by showcasing achievements and future potential.

In this engaging conversation, Kevin Evers, HBR senior editor and author of 'There's Nothing Like This: The Strategic Genius of Taylor Swift,' dives into the strategies behind Taylor Swift's monumental success. He discusses the concept of 'productive paranoia' that keeps leaders on their toes and the value of building authentic connections with audiences. Evers highlights Swift's innovative marketing techniques and her ability to adapt to the digital landscape, offering invaluable lessons for business leaders aiming for growth and resilience.