The Greg McKeown Podcast

Luke Burgis, a professor and entrepreneur, dives into the intriguing world of our desires, drawing from his book, "Wanting." He sheds light on the difference between essential and non-essential wants. Their conversation explores how societal pressures shape our aspirations, often diverting us from true fulfillment. Burgis emphasizes the power of mimetic desire and the significance of living intentionally. By assessing both positive and negative influences, he offers steps to reclaim control and pursue meaningful aspirations.

Ann Berry, Chief Investment Officer at Wheelhouse, shares her insights on navigating leadership amid challenges. She discusses redefining success during the pandemic, revealing how isolation reshaped her understanding of achievement. The conversation emphasizes the importance of tenacity, teamwork, and clear communication in the hospitality industry. Berry reflects on balancing adventure with family connections and advocates for gratitude and simplicity as pathways to happiness. Her take on embracing imperfection encourages listeners to prioritize experiences over perfection.

Discover how trust is the cornerstone of high-performance teams, making collaboration effortless. Unpack the lessons from Warren Buffett's approach to acquisitions and why integrity matters in hiring. Learn about the impact of clear agreements and roles in fostering successful partnerships. With personal anecdotes and practical insights, this discussion reveals how to build high-trust structures that enhance decision-making and simplify relationships in any setting.

Trained futurist Jacob Morgan, author of "The Future Leader," dives into the evolving world of leadership. He discusses the new skills leaders need, emphasizing empathy and adaptability in a post-COVID landscape. Open communication and ego management are highlighted as keys to effective leadership. Morgan advocates for continuous personal growth and the importance of emotional intelligence. With insights from business leaders, he provides actionable resources for those looking to navigate the complexities of modern organizational dynamics.

Arthur Brooks, a Harvard professor and behavioral social scientist known for his book "Love Your Enemies," sheds light on the secrets to happiness. He emphasizes that happiness is not just about avoiding negativity but fully engaging with life. The importance of naming emotions for better emotional regulation is discussed, alongside understanding our genetic influence on happiness. Brooks advocates for love as an actionable choice and the power of gratitude, offering practical tips that can transform daily experiences into pathways for greater fulfillment.

Kim Scott, CEO coach and author of "Just Work," shares her expertise in fostering respect and collaboration at work. She emphasizes the importance of open dialogue, especially when confronting workplace injustice. Kim introduces the five Ds of intervention to empower individuals to act against inappropriate behavior. The conversation also touches on mastering prioritization in teamwork and the weight of privilege when discussing injustice in writing. Overall, Kim advocates for compassionate communication to create healthier work environments.

Scott O'Neil, CEO of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment and owner of the Philadelphia 76ers, shares his journey as a leader, husband, and father. He emphasizes the importance of being present, especially during challenging times. The conversation touches on personal growth through loss and the pursuit of authentic connections. O'Neil also discusses the transformative impact of the pandemic on well-being and family bonds, along with the power of small acts of kindness to strengthen relationships.

Rachel Cooke, a leadership speaker and founder of Lead Above Noise, dives into the pressing issue of workplace burnout. She emphasizes the crucial role of empathetic leadership in fostering a supportive environment. The discussion sheds light on the power of small, meaningful actions to uplift others and the importance of intentional re-engagement in our post-pandemic lives. Cooke also shares practical strategies for leaders to manage their well-being while redefining success and cultivating a culture of reflection and open dialogue within their teams.

Greg Wells, a leading performance physiologist and wellness advocate, shares his expertise on the art of deliberate recovery. He emphasizes rest as a vital skill for optimal performance, challenging listeners to find balance between work and relaxation. Dr. Wells introduces practical strategies like the 'one, two, three rule' for recovery and discusses the transformation of daily tasks into rejuvenating rituals. He advocates for redefining work and joy, empowering individuals to embrace their passions for a more fulfilling life.

Discover the essential art of rest, particularly for high achievers struggling to prioritize relaxation. Engaging stories from an eye surgeon and a baseball manager illustrate how rest can enhance productivity and mental clarity. Explore the delicate balance between exertion and recovery, highlighting strategies like focused work sessions and napping. The discussion also addresses the detrimental effects of sleep deprivation and the hustle culture, making a compelling case for structured breaks in our busy lives.