In a Thanksgiving message, the hosts express gratitude to their listeners while sharing insights on leveraging AI tools. They delve into how they've evolved their approach to using AI as collaborative intelligences rather than mere tools. Highlights include reflections on past discussions with thought leaders, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking. It's a festive reminder to appreciate resources that enhance our work lives.

Darren Chait, VP of Marketing at Calendly and co-founder of Hugo, dives into the world of meetings. He shares insights from Calendly’s recent research revealing that 81% want more meetings, but with a twist towards meaningful interactions. Discover the three types of meetings to keep and one to ditch. He also explores tech tools like Calendly and Loom to boost meeting efficiency and engagement while tackling the challenges of virtual meetings and the importance of inclusivity and collaboration.

Neel Doshi, co-founder of Vega Factor and co-author of 'Primed to Perform,' dives deep into the science of total motivation. He breaks down the six key motives that shape corporate culture and discusses how certain metrics can either foster or hinder motivation. Neel unveils the importance of focusing on positive motives like play and purpose while addressing the pitfalls of economic and emotional pressures. Additionally, he offers insights on how strong team cultures and genuine engagement can drive performance and sustainability in the workplace.

Dr. Manu Kapur, a world-renowned learning expert at ETH Zurich, discusses how designing for failure can enhance learning. He shares insights on why avoiding initial explanations fosters deeper understanding and the importance of engaging with challenging tasks. Kapur explains the four A's of productive failure: Activation, Awareness, Affect, and Assembly, and how they drive motivation. He also highlights the benefits of unstructured play in education, emphasizing that embracing failure is vital for personal growth and effective learning.

Sam Bennett, author and creativity specialist, discusses her 15-minute method that revolutionizes productivity. She reveals how much can truly be accomplished in just a quarter of an hour and shares strategies for overcoming overwhelm and procrastination. Through 'grumpy magic,' Bennett emphasizes that even when you're not feeling your best, short bursts of effort can lead to fulfillment. She encourages embracing imperfections and highlights the importance of consistent, manageable tasks for personal growth.

Jeremy Utley, Director of Executive Education at Stanford’s d.school, shares insights on maximizing generative AI in the workplace. He highlights the common mistake of treating AI solely as a tool rather than a collaborative partner. Jeremy discusses the advantages of ChatGPT, emphasizing the need for user engagement and iterative dialogue to enhance creativity. He explores practical applications in negotiation and how embracing diverse ideas can foster innovation. Plus, he offers actionable tips for boosting personal and professional growth through effective AI use.

Rebecca Zung, a high conflict negotiation expert and bestselling author, shares powerful strategies for handling difficult people, especially narcissists. She discusses how to identify high-conflict personalities and the importance of self-worth in negotiations. Zung introduces her unique SLAY® Method for empowering individuals to stand up to bullies effectively. The episode also delves into the psychological complexities of dealing with narcissists, emphasizing the need for strategic boundary-setting and emotional resilience to reclaim personal power.

Ethan Bernstein, a Harvard Business School professor and expert in organizational behavior, shares insights on navigating career challenges. He identifies four key quests driving career transitions and highlights the importance of aligning roles with personal aspirations. Bernstein also discusses how to stay relevant through continuous learning and effective networking. Another fascinating point is the value of storytelling in job applications, which can significantly impact hiring decisions. This conversation is packed with practical strategies for meaningful career advancement.

Megan Hellerer, a career coach and former Google executive, shares her journey from a high-achieving but unfulfilled life to finding true meaning in her work. She discusses the importance of redefining success based on personal values and urges overachievers to embrace curiosity. Megan highlights key questions to ponder before making decisions and emphasizes the need for a flexible, experimental approach to career growth. She also addresses the low levels of workplace engagement and how an 'inner navigation system' can guide individuals towards fulfilling careers.

Rich Diviney, a former Navy SEAL and expert in human performance, discusses the essential attributes that drive optimal performance beyond mere skills. He highlights resilience, patience, and situational awareness as key qualities shaped through intense training. Diviney shares insights on how to leverage personal strengths to enhance teamwork and manage stress effectively. He also points out the transformative power of self-reflection and emphasizes that true leadership emerges from understanding oneself and embracing discomfort for growth.