Duncan Wardle, the former Head of Innovation and Creativity at Disney, discusses his journey of transforming creativity at one of the world’s most beloved companies. He shares how fostering a culture of innovation among all employees, not just leaders, can yield groundbreaking ideas. With amusing anecdotes like the presidential turkey PR stunt, Duncan emphasizes the importance of play in idea generation and the role of intuition in understanding consumers. His new book, Imagination Emporium, offers fresh insights on unlocking creativity and fostering emotional connections in marketing.

In this insightful discussion, Yoni Appelbaum, Deputy Executive Editor of The Atlantic, delves into the troubling decline of mobility in America and its impact on society and politics. He shares how housing policy and community dynamics shape the American dream, urging a reimagining of these systems to foster inclusivity. Appelbaum also emphasizes the importance of grassroots movements in driving political change and civic engagement, challenging listeners to participate actively in their communities to reclaim democracy.

Steve Gordon, Director of the California DMV, formerly a Cisco Systems executive, reveals how he turned a notoriously frustrating agency into a customer-centric powerhouse. He discusses streamlining processes like eliminating knowledge tests for experienced drivers and implementing digital appointment systems. Gordon shares insights on his unexpected journey to leadership and the importance of understanding consumer needs. His philosophy of 'management by driving around' emphasizes engagement and efficiency, making public service more accessible and satisfying for everyone.

Kurt Gray, a psychology and neuroscience professor at UNC Chapel Hill, dives into the landscape of moral outrage and the psychology behind it. He introduces his CIV approach—Connect, Invite, and Validate—as a method for mending societal divides. Through engaging discussions about empathy, he challenges political myths and emphasizes the need for personal stories in debates on sensitive topics. Gray also addresses mental fatigue from today's divisive climate and advocates for compassionate communication to foster understanding.

In this discussion, Sandra Matz, a professor at Columbia Business School specializing in psychological targeting and data privacy, unveils how our online behavior can expose our personality traits. She tackles the interplay between language and emotions, and the ethical implications of using data in personal relationships and political campaigns. Matz warns of the risks posed by data brokers and emphasizes the urgent need for privacy awareness. The conversation also explores innovative data co-ops, showcasing how collective ownership can empower individuals in a data-driven world.

Join Alison Wood Brooks, a Harvard Business School professor and author of Talk, as she unpacks the art of conversation. She shares her innovative TALK framework and emphasizes the surprising value of small talk. Discover how to navigate sensitive topics like finances and personal beliefs with kindness and tact. Brooks delves into the dynamics of different communication styles, the importance of empathy in discussions, and the role of AI in enhancing human interaction. Her insights will transform how you approach conversations!

Mike Maples Jr., Co-founder of Floodgate and early investor in Twitter and Twitch, dives into the art of spotting the ‘inflection points’ that can make or break startups. He argues that the wildest ideas often take the crown and explains how being dismissed can be a secret advantage. Maples tackles the nuances of pitching for venture capital and shares how understanding key changes in tech, especially in AI and automotive, can set successful entrepreneurs apart. Plus, he reflects on the importance of knowing when to walk away from success for lasting fulfillment.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, a prominent physician-scientist and former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, shares his experiences guiding America through health crises like AIDS and COVID-19. He discusses the importance of clear communication during the pandemic and the ethics of vaccine trials. Fauci emphasizes the necessity of scientific integrity, the lessons learned from activism, and how his father's pharmacy sparked his passion for medicine. He concludes with a heartfelt message to future leaders in public health.

Dr. Chika Oriuwa, a pioneering physician, poet, and advocate, made history as the only Black student in her medical school class. She discusses her unique journey that intertwines poetry and medicine, emphasizing how artistic expression enhances patient care. Chika addresses the challenges of representation in the medical field and the need for diversity in medical education. She also reflects on her recognition as a Barbie role model, celebrating authenticity and resilience in her story while empowering young girls through self-affirmation and creativity.

In this engaging conversation, Keith Ferrazzi, bestselling author and thought leader on team dynamics, dives into his revolutionary concept of 'teamship.' He discusses how traditional leadership must evolve for high-performing teams to thrive. Ferrazzi highlights the importance of candor and psychological safety in unlocking team potential. He also shares insights on leveraging AI for enhanced collaboration and the shift in workplace dynamics post-pandemic, emphasizing the need for innovative strategies to foster meaningful connections.