Hello Monday with Jessi Hempel

Discover the emotional rollercoaster of unexpected layoff experiences and how they can redefine personal identity. Hear Yowei Shaw's candid account of her journey through grief, uncertainty, and the rebuilding process. The discussion tackles the stigma of unemployment and the importance of self-compassion. It also highlights the illusion of job security and the empowerment that comes from embracing uncertainty. Finally, reflect on the significance of authenticity in journalism and how it can guide personal reinvention.

Malcolm Gladwell, a best-selling author renowned for works like The Tipping Point, delves into the evolution of influence in the digital age. He discusses how technology and social media have transformed idea dissemination, emphasizing that impact doesn't require vast followings. Personal anecdotes, including his brother's influence as a principal, highlight the power of community. Gladwell also shares insights on navigating the fast-paced job market and the dual-edged nature of emerging technologies like AI, stressing adaptability and personal agency.

Emily and Amelia Nagoski, co-authors of "Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle," shed light on the root causes of burnout, especially among women. They discuss the damaging effects of societal expectations, emphasizing the struggle between being a 'human giver' and a 'human being.' The Nagoskis advocate for emotional resilience, self-compassion, and the power of community connections to combat burnout. They also explore how capitalism and patriarchy impact well-being and highlight the journey of finding purpose and balance amidst stress.

Actor, writer, and director Jesse Eisenberg sits down with Jessi Hempel to dive into his creative process, offering valuable insights on how to balance artistic passion with commercial viability. From his experiences writing and directing A Real Pain to his candid thoughts on imposter syndrome, Jesse discusses the challenges of navigating self-doubt, managing criticism, and staying true to your vision in a highly competitive industry. He shares how he approaches the business side of filmmaking, including managing costs and choosing the right projects, while staying connected to the pure joy of creation. With honesty and humor, Jesse reflects on the complexities of balancing external expectations, handling criticism, and finding your creative calling in a world that often demands more than just your art. This episode offers a refreshing perspective on how to stay grounded while pursuing your creative dreams. Tune in for a candid conversation that will inspire anyone looking to find balance in their creative life and career. For more, listen to Jessi’s conversation with Laura Linney on criticism here. Continue the conversation with us at Hello Monday Office Hours! RSVP here to join us on the LinkedIn News page this Wednesday at 3 PM EST.

Aja Evans, a financial therapist and author of "Feel Good Finance," discusses how our childhood experiences shape our approach to money. She dives into the emotional connections many have with finances, emphasizing the importance of understanding your financial history. Aja shares strategies to manage overspending and tackle investment fears, particularly among high earners. She highlights the significance of open communication in partnerships and addresses the challenges faced by those supporting aging parents, providing insights on setting healthy financial boundaries.

As the year winds down, many of us reflect on our work, our personal lives, and the balance (or lack thereof) between the two. In this episode of Hello Monday, Jessi Hempel talks with Brigid Schulte, the best-selling author of Overwhelmed and Over Work, about the culture of work and how it shapes our lives. Brigid’s research spans countries like Iceland, Japan, and the U.S., giving her unique insights into how different cultures approach work-life balance and productivity.Brigid shares why the pressure to love our work and work non-stop is unsustainable and harmful. As technology—especially AI—reshapes the future of work, it’s time to reassess how we define success and productivity. Is more work really better work? Together, Jessi and Brigid discuss how small changes in our work culture can lead to less stress, greater fulfillment, and healthier work-life balance. They also explore the importance of creating work cultures that prioritize well-being alongside productivity.In this episode, you’ll learn how to challenge outdated work norms and how to design a more sustainable future for work, life, and everything in between.Plus, hear Scott Olster discuss his recent read Nexus by Yuval Noah Harari.

Max Bennett, an AI entrepreneur and author of A Brief History of Intelligence, discusses the evolution of intelligence and the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI. He delves into how human intelligence developed over 600 million years and contrasts it with current AI approaches, stressing the importance of understanding human-like reasoning. Bennett also explores AI's potential in education and labor, advocating for AI as a tool for fostering critical thinking. This conversation sheds light on balancing automation with human values in our future.

Celebrating two years of ChatGPT, the discussion dives into its transformative impact on work and life. Experts share how generative AI is reshaping various industries, including finance and healthcare. Listener experiences highlight the creative and practical uses of AI, while also addressing its pitfalls, like misinformation. Personal stories reveal the tool's role in navigating grief and challenges in business. The episode emphasizes the importance of critical engagement with AI, balancing innovation with caution.

Industry experts Steven Wolfe Pereira and Marissa Thalberg dive into the heart of branding, highlighting what makes a brand memorable. They emphasize the significance of a brand's purpose and promise, and explore the essential 'four P’s'—Product, Pricing, Place, and Promotion. The duo also discusses the critical role of AI in modern marketing strategies and personal branding. With a focus on authenticity, they urge listeners to navigate their professional identities thoughtfully. It's a masterclass in branding for both business and personal success!

Anna Kendrick, a multi-talented actress celebrated for films like Pitch Perfect, makes her directorial debut with 'Woman of the Hour.' In this conversation, she shares her journey from actor to director, highlighting the vulnerability and resilience required to reinvent oneself. Anna discusses the darker themes of her film, including the complexities of vulnerability and trust, especially for women. She opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome, the significance of constructive feedback, and the courageous leap into the unknown that defines her creative evolution.