The McKinsey Podcast

Join Ramesh Srinivasan, a senior partner at McKinsey and co-author of 'The Journey of Leadership,' alongside Hans-Werner Kaas, the firm's senior partner emeritus, as they delve into the evolving landscape of leadership. They emphasize the importance of self-reflection, empathy, and humility in leadership, especially in the context of AI and global changes. The discussion highlights strategies for CEOs to enhance self-awareness and compassion, ultimately fostering a more human-centric approach to inspire their workforce and navigate 2024's challenges.

Lareina Yee, a McKinsey technology expert and contributor to the McKinsey Technology Trends Outlook 2024, joins Roger Roberts, a senior partner, to explore fascinating tech trends. They discuss the swift advancements in generative AI and its importance for business innovation. The pair also highlight the need for effective communication strategies for CEOs, especially in crisis situations, and delve into the electrification trend as a key driver for carbon-free energy, emphasizing the role of emerging technologies and digital trust.

Bryan Hancock and Emily Field, McKinsey talent experts and co-authors of *Power to the Middle*, dive into the pivotal role of middle managers amid evolving workplace dynamics. They discuss generative AI's potential to reduce administrative burdens, allowing managers to better support their teams. The duo also highlights the hurdles women face in promotions and the 'broken rung' phenomenon, stressing the need for a supportive environment for all managers. Their insights aim to reshape the perception and effectiveness of middle management in today's work landscape.

Alexander Sukharevsky, a senior partner at McKinsey focused on AI in the workplace, joins Lareina Yee, an expert in organizational dynamics, along with editorial director Roberta Fusaro, to explore the transformative impact of generative AI on business. They discuss the importance of balancing custom solutions with existing models while addressing talent needs and ethical governance. Additionally, Sherina Ebrahim shares essential tips on speaking up at work, emphasizing the power of effective self-advocacy and positive communication.

Sajal Kohli, a McKinsey senior partner, dives deep into the complexities of consumer behavior. He reveals how consumers are prioritizing experiences over goods and the impact of younger generations, especially in emerging markets. The conversation touches on trends like premiumization, wellness, and sustainability, emphasizing that even eco-friendly products must remain affordable. Additionally, storytelling emerges as a powerful tool for leaders in engaging their teams and fostering an inclusive organizational culture. It's an enlightening take on what drives today’s consumers.

McKinsey senior partners discuss the importance of not overlooking digital imperatives beyond Gen AI. Topics include integration of technologies for business success, rise of neural businesses, leveraging multiple technologies for innovation, practical applications of quantum computing, and maximizing benefits of AI in the workplace.

McKinsey senior partners discuss global productivity, the impact of technology on wages, and the need for investments. They explore disparities in productivity growth rates between countries and the potential of digital transformation to boost productivity. Additionally, the challenge in Europe to fill skilled labor positions is addressed, suggesting hiring ethnic-minority employees as a solution.

McKinsey expert Margaux Constantin discusses new tourist behavior insights for tailored offerings, while Kurt Strovink shares CEO strategies for stakeholder engagement in the travel industry. Topics include generational travel preferences, customer data utilization, generative AI, overcrowding challenges, and stakeholder engagement techniques.

Explore the $1.8 trillion space economy by 2035 and the implications for responsible practices. Author discusses historical leadership lessons for today. Discover the impact of space technology on daily life and the evolving regulations. Private investment, sustainability, and transformative power of space exploration are also covered.

McKinsey partner Anna Pione discusses consumer wellness trends, emphasizing probiotics and effective products. Senior partner Gayatri Shenai shares a personal story on recognizing a colleague's cry for help. The podcast explores evolving consumer behaviors, wellness investments, in-home care trends, and the influence of generative AI on wellness and women's health.