What Works

No job is safer than a government job, right? Well, not anymore. At least not in the US. I’m paying special attention to the fight over government jobs (or, as the administration might put it, “bloat and inefficiency”) because it’s part of a more comprehensive narrative project—one that shapes how we think and talk about work, and therefore think and talk about who we are and how we fit into society. Questioning the narrative that government workers are lazy or that bureaucracy is bloated and unnecessary is one way to question the narratives we perpetuate in our own work lives. And that's what today's episode is all about.Footnotes:Read the essay version of this episode at whatworks.fyiJustice Jackson's dissent in Trump v American Federation of Government Workers (7.11.25)Michael Lewis on Cautionary Tales and his new book, Who Is Government?The Partnership for Public Service"Breaking the Validation Spiral" by Tara McMullin"All Parasites Have Value" by Tara McMullinAstra Taylor's book The Age of Insecurity and her interview on the Current Affairs podcastMythocracy by Yves Citton ★ Support this podcast ★

Exploring the value of re-reading, the discussion highlights how familiar stories shape personal identity, with Murderbot taking center stage. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the comfort found in revisiting narratives amid today’s fast-paced content consumption. The conversation contrasts the fleeting nature of digital media with the deeper connections and insights gained through cherished texts. Personal anecdotes enrich the dialogue, showcasing the rediscovery of meaning and growth that comes from re-engaging with beloved works.

Why do we keep chasing external approval despite feeling depleted? The struggle between mediocrity and excellence is examined through a personal lens, highlighting the need for a healthy self-identity. The concept of the validation spiral is explored, revealing how it leads to burnout and dissatisfaction. Listeners discover strategies to break free from this cycle and embrace self-acceptance. Feminist theory is woven in, providing a thought-provoking perspective on rethinking our commitments and redefining success.

The discussion kicks off with the financial realities of supporting creators in today's economy, revealing the challenges they face. It delves into the fragile relationship between creator support and traditional charity, highlighting vulnerabilities. The future of media organizations is scrutinized, emphasizing the need for genuine support rather than profit motives. There's also a compelling look at how storytelling shapes desires and societal beliefs, advocating for narratives that empower communities. Plus, a seminar for creative thinkers promises to enhance critical thinking through adventurous exploration.

Navigating big goals is often unpredictable, resembling the twists of a roller coaster. Expect challenges as success can feel like failure, prompting emotional turmoil in the workplace. Embracing confusion can lead to valuable learning moments. The discussion includes insights on evolving procedures and the importance of adaptability in changing environments. A new seminar is introduced, blending speculative fiction with critical thinking, encouraging participants to explore complex work dynamics creatively.

In this conversation, Sean McMullen, husband of Tara McMullin, dives into the heated debate surrounding Ann Leckie's comments on AI chatbots versus search engines. He emphasizes the nuances of information, data, and knowledge, while critiquing the often condescending perspectives of some tech commentators. The discussion explores how AI tools influence critical thinking and user engagement, highlighting the difference between exploration and efficiency in learning. Sean also reflects on the importance of curiosity in navigating digital inquiry.

Explore how transforming chaotic thoughts into structured narratives enhances communication and creativity. Delve into the significance of storytelling in a media-saturated world and learn strategies to combat information overload. Discover the speaker's journey from anxious interviews to engaging podcasts, emphasizing empathy and narrative development. Uncover practical techniques like notetaking and diagramming to clarify complex ideas. Plus, get a sneak peek into an upcoming seminar designed for deep intellectual engagement.

"No one is ever completely safe from the critical gaze of a culture steeped in the makeover ethos." —Micki McGeeI have a theory that you can measure the decline of any social media platform by the time it takes for its feed to become a firehose of unsolicited advice. Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn are all sludge piles of advice now, but it took them years to devolve. TikTok took maybe 18 months. Substack Notes? Like 3 months. Threads? Instant.Most of us (I think) can agree that the vapid posturing that occurs through posting advice on social media makes a platform less enjoyable. I don't open one of these apps in the hopes that I'll learn the one weird trick that can turn my frown upside down or give me six-pack abs. What we once loved about these platforms is how people shared their everyday descriptions of life, love, family, and curiosity. But much of that mutual exchange of experience has been ceded to the commercial interest of advice.After all, we love advice. We also hate advice. We love it when someone can tell us what we should do next. And we also hate being told what we should do next. So what gives? Today, a description of why that is. But first, things are going to get awkward.Footnotes:Read the written version of this episode.Awkwardness: A Theory by Alexandra Plakias"Signs of social awkwardness and 15 ways to overcome it" via BetterUpSelf-Help, Inc by Micki McGeeSelf-Help, LLC - a special What Works series exploring the business and culture of self-help (00:00) - EP 493: Why We Just Can't Quit Advice Culture (19:44) - Credits ★ Support this podcast ★

Explore how rethinking societal challenges can lead to innovative solutions. Discover the significance of enabling structures in fostering creativity, using historical gems like the Federal Music Project as inspiration. Delve into the complexities of content moderation and the shift from restrictive practices to nurturing dialogue and community values. Learn how these concepts can transform not only macro issues but also enhance our everyday work and family lives.

Explore the compelling concepts of your inner critics, personified as Tiny Capitalists like the Tiny Puritan, Tiny Manager, and Tiny Entrepreneur. Discover how societal pressures about productivity shape our views on work and rest. The discussion reveals the impact of cultural beliefs on labor exploitation and self-worth. Unpack the evolving narratives around capitalism and the role of collaboration in reimagining our relationship with work. It's a witty and thought-provoking journey into our psyche and the systems we accept.