Hello Monday with Jessi Hempel

Shannon Watts, the Founder of Moms Demand Action and author of 'Fired Up,' shares her inspiring journey from corporate PR to grassroots activism after the Sandy Hook tragedy. She emphasizes how starting before you’re ready can spark significant change, particularly for women and mothers. The conversation dives into the emotional resilience required in advocacy, how burnout can transform perspective, and the incredible power women have in driving societal change. Shannon's insights offer a motivating call to action for anyone ready to make a difference.

Paul Sullivan, journalist and founder of The Company of Dads, shares his journey as a primary caregiver championing a new definition of fatherhood. He discusses the rise of lead dads and the challenges they face in a workplace often biased towards traditional gender roles. The conversation dives into the importance of support systems for fathers and how openly communicating about emotional labor can alleviate resentment. Paul emphasizes the need for workplaces to adapt and support diverse family dynamics, advocating for a shift in societal perceptions of masculinity.

Kathleen deLaski, a social entrepreneur and founder of the Education Design Lab, discusses her book, *Who Needs College Anymore?*. She challenges the outdated belief that a four-year degree is essential for career success. Kathleen highlights the experiences of the 62% of Americans who don't complete a degree and advocates for the increasing importance of community colleges and skills-based programs. The conversation emphasizes the shift in mindset needed for students and parents as they navigate the evolving job market and educational landscape.

Darra Gordon, CEO of Family Equality, passionately advocates for LGBTQ+ families while juggling her own parenting journey. In this conversation, she emphasizes the necessity of visibility and community support during uncertain times. They discuss empowering children to embrace their identities and the importance of allyship beyond Pride Month. Darra shares personal experiences navigating the legal hurdles faced by queer families in adoption and foster care, highlighting the ongoing fight for equal rights and the joy within queer family dynamics.

Join Anna Kendrick, an accomplished actress known for her roles in Pitch Perfect and Up in the Air, as she takes a bold leap into directing with her Netflix film, Woman of the Hour. She shares her journey of stepping out of her comfort zone, confronting imposter syndrome, and the importance of trusting her intuition. The conversation dives into the emotional depth of storytelling, exploring themes of vulnerability, intimacy, and betrayal. Anna's insights on overcoming fears and the necessity of trustworthy feedback offer inspiration for anyone looking to reinvent their careers.

Caroline Wanga, President and CEO of Essence Ventures and co-founder of Wanga Woman, shares her journey from intern to corporate leader and her views on career mapping. She emphasizes that your next career move doesn't have to follow a traditional path and that embracing imperfection in your career map can provide clarity. Caroline discusses the power of authenticity in leadership, the necessity of self-compassion during uncertain times, and how reframing failure can lead to growth. Her insights inspire building a meaningful career that evolves with you.

Debbie Millman, a legendary designer and podcast host, joins bestselling author Roxane Gay to explore the intersection of love and creativity. They share insights from their new book, discussing how personal growth mirrors gardening. Topics include the often invisible path to success, the importance of resilience in the face of failure, and the necessity of prioritizing what truly matters. They candidly address the challenges of work culture and advocate for a more meaningful, sustainable approach to creativity and career.

Suzy Welch, a professor at NYU Stern and a three-time bestselling author, shares her insights on authenticity in this engaging talk. She emphasizes the crucial role of aligning professional lives with personal values for true satisfaction. Suzy discusses navigating the post-pandemic work landscape, the tension between personal and professional values, and offers strategies for self-discovery to help individuals find fulfillment in their careers. Her expert advice is a guiding light for anyone seeking to live authentically.

Suleika Jaouad, a bestselling author and cancer survivor, shares her insights on living well amid uncertainty. She discusses how creativity can transform adversity into art and purpose, highlighting her journey through leukemia. The conversation touches on the healing power of deep friendships, the significance of a 100-day journaling challenge, and rethinking productivity through kindness and bravery. Suleika emphasizes the importance of curiosity and play as daily rituals, encouraging listeners to embrace resilience and joy even in their darkest moments.

Facing a layoff can be a daunting experience, but it doesn't have to define your journey. The discussion reveals essential strategies for managing the emotional turmoil while emphasizing that layoffs are often business decisions rather than personal failures. Listeners receive practical advice on documenting achievements and the importance of seeking community support. It's a valuable resource for anyone navigating career transitions or helping others through these challenging moments.