unSILOed with Greg LaBlanc

In this conversation, Donald MacKenzie, a professor at the University of Edinburgh and expert on the sociology of finance, explores the fast-paced world of trading shaped by ultra-fast algorithms. He discusses how technology transforms market behaviors and the surprising effects of environmental factors like rain. Their dialogue also touches on the complex interplay between financial models and real-world trading, highlighting the historical evolution of trading practices and the ethical dimensions of modern financial markets. A fascinating look at how sociology enriches our understanding of finance!

Robert Siegel, a Stanford lecturer and author, dives into the complex world of modern leadership. He discusses how effective leaders balance innovation and execution amid rapid technological changes. Siegel emphasizes the importance of empathy and adaptability, along with the critical quality of statesmanship in leadership roles. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of business education and the benefits of blending practical experience with academic learning. Ultimately, it’s about leading with a moral compass while navigating competing demands.

Ciara M. Greene, an Associate Professor of Psychology at University College Dublin, delves into the intricacies of memory in this engaging conversation. She challenges the notion of memory as a perfect recording device, emphasizing its evolutionary advantages and reconstructive nature. The discussion covers how stress affects memory encoding, the impact of technology on retention, and the complex relationship between attention and memory. Ciara also touches on the implications of memory errors, particularly in the context of eyewitness testimonies and the importance of understanding memory’s fallibility.

Jo Boaler, a Professor of Mathematics Education at Stanford and author of 'Math-ish', advocates for transforming math education to emphasize creativity and diversity. She discusses the need for active learning and the inclusion of data science in high school curricula. Jo highlights the flaws in traditional teaching methods, the importance of metacognition, and the value of collaborative problem-solving. She also underscores how embracing mistakes can foster a growth mindset, and shares insights on the role of AI in future educational practices.

Maggie Jackson, a journalist and author known for her insights on attention and uncertainty, dives deep into the nuances of embracing the unknown. She explores the concept of 'good stress' and how it enhances creativity and learning. The conversation highlights the importance of daydreaming and reflection for mental well-being, alongside the role of diverse perspectives in decision-making. Jackson emphasizes that embracing uncertainty can lead to personal growth and innovation, challenging societal norms that often fear ambiguity.

Adam Galinsky, a leadership and ethics professor at Columbia Business School, delves into the intricate dynamics of power in leadership. He discusses how power can hinder perspective taking, likening it to driving a race car without a steering wheel. Galinsky emphasizes the importance of empathy and recognition in effective leadership, especially for low-status individuals. He also highlights the need for a clear vision, discussing how principles like 'deliver happiness' can guide decision-making, ultimately illustrating the ethical complexities inherent in leadership.

Martin Gayford, an esteemed art critic and writer known for his insightful interviews with artists, delves into the timeless allure of painting. He discusses the challenges of expressing the nuances of visual art through words and the unique, physical process of creating a masterpiece. Gayford highlights the importance of experiencing art in person, contrasting it with digital reproductions. He further explores the concept of artistic completion and shares how artists navigate their creative journeys, emphasizing the transformative power of painting in enriching lives.

Kieran Setiya, a Professor of Philosophy at MIT and author, delves into the practical applications of philosophical thought in everyday life. He examines the convergence of philosophy and self-help, proposing their reintegration to tackle life's challenges. Setiya discusses midlife crises and the balance between goal-oriented activities and mindfulness. He critiques simplistic philosophies, emphasizing the importance of recognizing suffering and complexity. The conversation also touches on the philosophy of desire, choice, and the role of introspection in personal development.

John Lewis Gaddis, a renowned history professor at Yale and author of influential works on strategy, discusses the intertwining of historical consciousness with strategic thinking. He examines how presidents like Lincoln and Reagan utilized historical insights in leadership. Gaddis emphasizes the significance of common sense in strategy and critiques the contemporary reinterpretation of historical events, such as the Ukraine conflict. He also reflects on the evolving legacies of historical figures and the philosophical implications of Isaiah Berlin's ideas on governance.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Keith Payne, a psychology and neuroscience professor at UNC Chapel Hill and author of influential books on social inequality, explores the complex relationship between wealth distribution and well-being. He reveals how perceived social inequality not only affects individual happiness but also fuels political polarization. Keith highlights the role of identity in political alignment and offers strategies for healthier dialogue across divides. Empathy and understanding emerge as pivotal tools for bridging societal gaps.