

Fast Company Daily
Fast Company
Stories, tips, and advice on how employees, managers, and businesses are working smarter, all from Fast Company and all in less than five minutes each weekday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

7 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 7min
The most undervalued asset for a leader? It’s these 2 hours
Discover why the first two hours of your workday are crucial for effective leadership. Morning routines can make or break decision-making abilities, as fatigue sets in later. Prioritizing high-impact tasks during this peak cognitive time can significantly enhance productivity. Learn how to reclaim your mornings and transform your leadership approach by focusing on essential decisions over distractions.

Jul 2, 2025 • 8min
What is a micro-retirement? Inside the latest Gen Z trend
Discover the rising trend of micro-retirements among Gen Z, where taking intentional breaks from work promotes better work-life balance. The conversation explores the potential benefits and financial risks of these breaks, offering practical tips for planning. Hear a teacher's inspiring journey that emphasizes the importance of life experiences alongside financial stability. This trend not only aims to combat burnout but also enhances overall mental well-being and satisfaction!

Jul 1, 2025 • 11min
5 reasons why the 4-day workweek is a win for everyone
Juliette Shore, an economist and sociology professor at Boston College, discusses the revolutionary concept of a four-day workweek. She shares compelling research showcasing how this model boosts productivity and employee satisfaction. Shore highlights the positive impacts on well-being and organizational culture observed in various pilot programs. She also touches on government support and AI's role in facilitating this transition, advocating for a rethinking of traditional work schedules to enhance work-life balance.

4 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 6min
No one wants to be a leader. Here’s why it’s still a great role.
Leadership aspirations are waning, particularly among Gen Z, who prioritize work-life balance over traditional roles. Despite this trend, the podcast makes a compelling case for leadership. It highlights the benefits, such as higher pay, enhanced marketability, and increased autonomy. Moreover, it underscores the personal growth leaders can experience, linking leadership with greater happiness and fulfillment in their careers.

Jun 27, 2025 • 9min
How to create a workplace where changemakers thrive
Organizations need to stop celebrating individual disruptors. Instead, they should be cultivating ecosystems where all kinds of innovators can thrive together. Here’s how. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 26, 2025 • 8min
Don’t hide that career gap on your resume. Own it
Nearly half of U.S. workers have a gap on their resumes, yet many people still feel pressure to hide career breaks from potential employers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

9 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 7min
5 ways to network when you don’t have a network
Ever wondered how to network when you're starting from scratch? Discover effective strategies to build professional connections with the '100 Connection Method'—a personalized outreach approach. Learn five key strategies to create meaningful relationships, including leveraging technology and mastering informational interviews. Offering value and fostering genuine connections will help you establish a sustainable network that supports your career growth. Get ready to transform your job-hunting journey!

Jun 24, 2025 • 9min
3 Cognitive Habits of People Who Get Things Done
Explore the secrets of high-achieving individuals and their common cognitive habits that boost productivity. Discover how proactive accountability plays a crucial role in team dynamics. Learn the importance of aligning expectations and taking ownership to enhance trust and performance among colleagues. This insightful discussion delves deep into the mindset that drives success.

Jun 23, 2025 • 9min
6 smart ways to minimize decision fatigue before noon
Early decision fatigue can lead to worse choices later in the day. But with the proper structure, you can drastically reduce mental overload—and set your day up for success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 20, 2025 • 6min
Here’s how to embrace Gen Z’s desire for purpose and flexibility at work
Gen Z isn’t interested in the old nine-to-five grind. They want autonomy, meaning, and flexibility. Today’s leaders must learn how to deliver. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices