The Greg McKeown Podcast

Rob Dyrdek, an entrepreneur and former professional skateboarder known for his reality shows, shares his journey from skateboarding fame to business success. He discusses the concept of a '10X shift' in productivity, revealing how self-education transformed his career. Rob reflects on a pivotal investment decision that tested his values and emphasizes the importance of aligning personal systems with professional goals. He introduces the 'Rhythm of Existence' framework, advocating for balance and self-awareness to achieve fulfillment and optimal performance.

Saad Mohseni, co-founder and executive officer of Moby Group, shares insights from his remarkable journey from London to leading Afghanistan's largest media company. He discusses the grim realities of Afghan journalism under the Taliban's regime, the flawed U.S. strategy that contributed to ongoing issues, and the critical need for effective communication and understanding in international diplomacy. Mohseni highlights the consequences of hasty withdrawals and emphasizes the importance of nuanced, long-term strategies for peace in the region.

Saad Mohseni, co-founder of Moby Group, discusses his journey from diplomat's son to leading Afghanistan's largest media company. He explores the ethical challenges of journalism in a country under Taliban rule, revealing the complexities of reporting on sensitive issues while maintaining safety. Mohseni reflects on the severe humanitarian impacts following the U.S. withdrawal, emphasizing the need for continued support for women and minorities. His insights shed light on the fragile state of media freedom in one of the world's most challenging environments.

Tim Shriver, chairman of the Special Olympics and a passionate advocate for individuals with intellectual disabilities, talks about overcoming polarization in society. He highlights the dangers of contempt and dehumanization, emphasizing the power of deep listening and empathy in bridging divides. Tim shares personal stories from his work in social-emotional learning, advocating for recognizing the dignity in others as a pathway to solving shared challenges. His insights inspire a cultural shift towards understanding and human connection.

Tim Shriver, chairman of the Special Olympics and advocate for people with intellectual disabilities, dives deep into the pressing issue of societal polarization. Sharing personal stories, he highlights the power of empathy and dignity in healing divides, particularly following the loss of his cousin. Tim discusses the structural challenges of today's political environment and the role of media in division. He encourages proactive steps for fostering respect in communities, underscoring the importance of building relationships and trust for lasting societal change.

Kim Clark, a former Dean of Harvard Business School, and Jonathan Clark, a PhD and professor, delve into the heart of effective leadership. They emphasize the crucial shift from controlling styles to fostering individual empowerment and collective well-being. The discussion highlights the importance of love, genuine listening, and authentic connection in leadership. They also tackle the moral pitfalls of totalitarian approaches and the necessity of transforming toxic leadership behaviors for a healthier organizational culture.

In this engaging discussion, the dynamic Clark family—Kim, former Dean of Harvard Business School; Jonathan, a UT professor with a Harvard PhD; and Erin, Deloitte's Human Capital leader—explore transformative leadership. They critique the 'power over' model, linking it to inefficiencies and employee dissatisfaction. Advocating for a 'leading through' approach, they emphasize the importance of personal agency, genuine engagement, and moral leadership. The conversation encourages listeners to reclaim their agency in creating positive organizational change.

Wilbur Ross, a prominent figure in global finance and former U.S. Secretary of Commerce, shares his remarkable journey and insights. He reflects on the critical mentorship of General Georges Doriot and the importance of presentation in leadership. The conversation delves into the unique power dynamics in Washington D.C. and how personal branding shapes public perception. Ross offers anecdotes from his time within the Trump administration, revealing the interplay of influence and title, making this a captivating talk on economics, mentorship, and personal growth.

Wilbur Ross, a titan in global finance and the 39th US Secretary of Commerce, shares riveting insights from his career and time in the Trump administration. He recounts his first day in the Oval Office, balancing humor with serious economic talks. Ross delves into the complexities of cabinet dynamics and highlights strategies for reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies. He also critiques the administration’s communication styles, particularly regarding trade policies, while discussing the pressing need for streamlined legislation in semiconductor manufacturing.

Join Jodi Wellman, author and positive psychologist, as she shares her insights on living a meaningful life with a humorous twist. They discuss the transformative power of death awareness, emphasizing how confronting mortality can motivate vibrant living. Jodi challenges the conventional retirement mindset, advocating for engagement in the present. She introduces the thought-provoking ‘Double Obituary Exercise’ to help clarify what truly matters, urging listeners to align their daily actions with their desired legacy and live fully before it’s too late.