The Knowledge Project

Danny Meyer, celebrated restaurateur and CEO of Union Square Hospitality Group, shares insights on the power of hospitality in every workplace. He emphasizes how delivering genuine hospitality can transform interactions. Meyer highlights the significance of hiring the right people and the tough decisions involved when letting them go. He discusses cultivating a winning culture centered on empathy and connection, and the balance of structure and flexibility in growing successful restaurants. Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, he shares transformative lessons from failures.

Noreena Hertz, an acclaimed economist and author, dives into the pervasive loneliness crisis affecting society. She discusses the psychological and physical health implications of loneliness, especially its growing toll on younger generations. Hertz highlights the dangers of relying on technology for connection and advocates for authentic human interactions. By examining cultural stigma and urban isolation, she offers practical solutions for fostering community engagement, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness in conversations to bridge divides.

Sarah Tavel, a general partner at Benchmark and former Pinterest product manager, shares her insights on applying intellectual rigor in venture capital. She connects her philosophical training to better investment analysis, emphasizing evidence-based reasoning. The conversation dives into talent acquisition in fast-growing firms, the importance of meaningful metrics over vanity metrics, and the influence of company culture on founder integration. Tavel also reflects on the transformative effects of the pandemic on startups and the dynamics of competition in the tech landscape.

Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist and best-selling author, dives into the art of rethinking. He discusses the necessity of adapting opinions when faced with new information and emphasizes the value of psychological safety in teams. Grant also delves into the balance between belonging and individuality in social groups and the power of reflective thinking in decision-making. With insights on fostering productive conversations, he advocates for embracing flexibility in identity and values over rigid beliefs for personal and organizational growth.

Join renowned investor Joel Greenblatt, Managing Principal at Gotham Asset Management and author of influential investment books, as he shares his insights on investing. He explains the crucial difference between luck and skill in the market and discusses the traits of successful management teams. Joel reflects on lessons from Warren Buffett regarding capital allocation and emphasizes the significance of alternative certifications in diversifying the workforce. This engaging conversation is packed with practical wisdom for both seasoned and aspiring investors.

In this engaging discussion, Jim Collins, a renowned researcher and author of celebrated works like Good to Great, shares insights gained from his mentor, Bill Lazier. He underscores the importance of prioritizing relationships over transactions and highlights how meaningful connections can define a fulfilling life. Jim reflects on mentorship, fatherhood, and the complexities of decision-making in leadership. He also delves into the concept of embracing ambiguity in entrepreneurship, challenging traditional notions of risk and safety.

Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychology professor at the University of Pennsylvania and CEO of Character Lab, dives deep into the fascinating concepts of grit and human behavior. She discusses whether our actions are driven by innate traits or situational factors, revealing how mindsets shape our success. Duckworth explores the importance of resilience in the face of challenges, the realities of effective practice versus mere hours logged, and the power of personal rules in achieving our goals. Her insights can transform the way we approach growth and perseverance.

Thomas Zurbuchen, NASA's Associate Administrator for the Science Mission Directorate, shares his remarkable journey from a curious child fascinated by the night sky to a leader making billion-dollar decisions in space exploration. He talks about the quest for extraterrestrial life, the unique challenges of microgravity aboard the International Space Station, and the complexities of Mars missions. Zurbuchen emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in tackling space debris and discusses the balance between innovation and safety in funding ambitious space projects.

Matt Ridley, a renowned author and biologist, dives into the intriguing themes of innovation and human progress. He discusses the ongoing battle between humans and viruses, emphasizing historical triumphs over disease. Ridley also contrasts innovation with invention, illustrating the importance of practical application. He explores how social media shapes optimism and pessimism, and underscores the significance of collaboration in the innovation process. Through fascinating anecdotes, he reveals that everyone can contribute to advancements when equipped with the right mindset.

Josh Kaufman, author of the bestseller 'The Personal MBA,' shares insights on mastering rapid skill acquisition and the art of decision-making. He emphasizes the importance of understanding mental models and how they can enhance problem-solving. Kaufman discusses the distinction between knowledge and skill, highlighting the role of deliberate practice in achieving mastery. He also explores how feedback and reflection foster growth, encouraging listeners to embrace failure and pursue passion projects for personal fulfillment.