Podcasts about stanford gsb

Welcome to Grit & Growth's final episode. After five years and 90 episodes, we've asked four Stanford GSB professors who teach in the Seed Transformation Program to tell us what they've learned — about the grit of intrepid entrepreneurs working in emerging economies and the growth they've experienced in their own teaching.Jesper Sorensen, Baba Shiv, Jonathan Levav, and Sarah Soule are all Stanford Graduate School of Business professors who have also spent years with Seed teaching business leaders from nearly 30 countries to grow and scale their companies. Their reflections include key takeaways about the resilience, honesty, and heart required to overcome unique challenges and the joy in seeing them triumph. As teachers, these professors also know how to learn from their students. And they've incorporated many of those lessons in the MBA and Executive Education programs back at Stanford.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stanford experts answer live questions on leadership, authenticity, and communication.What happens when four top Stanford thinkers take live questions from a room full of leaders? In Part 2 of this special Think Fast, Talk Smart series from the Stanford LEAD Me2We Conference, Matt Abrahams and his panel of expert GSB faculty—Allison Kluger, Naomi Bagdonas, Christian Wheeler, and Nir Halevy—answer questions from a live audience. They cover real-world challenges around leadership, authenticity, psychological safety, and managing your reputation in complex environments. With honest reflections and actionable advice, their answers offer a candid look at what it takes to lead with intention while staying true to yourself.Episode Reference Links:Allison Kluger Book Allison Contributed to:  Brand Up Naomi Bagdonas Nir Halevy Christian Wheeler Ep.2 Communicating Our Multiple Selves: How to Effectively Manage Your Reputation Ep.13 Make 'Em Laugh: How to Use Humor as a Secret Weapon in Your Communication Ep.30 Dissolve Disagreements: How Communication Impacts Conflict Ep.18 Managing in the Moment: How to Get Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:16) - Bridging Political Divides (05:29) - Navigating Confidence and Context (07:34) - Rethinking Leadership and Reputation (12:18) - Conclusion *****Stay Informed on Stanford's world changing research by signing up for the Stanford ReportJoin our upcoming 200th episode live event April 14 & 15Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.    

Susan Athey, the Economics of Technology Professor at Stanford Graduate School of Business and founding director of the Golub Capital Social Impact Lab, studies the impact of technological innovations on workers, businesses, and society. Will the world's economies successfully adapt to a future defined by artificial intelligence? On this episode, Athey shares what the stories of 22,000 laid-off workers in Sweden can tell us about who recovers from economic turmoil, how small design changes and product features can have outsize societal impact, and how AI could transform the way we work, from hiring to healthcare. What's the best way to build a future that effectively integrates AI and supports workers? Tell us more at ifthenpod@stanford.edu.This episode was recorded on December 16, 2024. Related Content:Susan Athey faculty profileA Low-Cost, Scalable Way to Get More Women Into TechA.I. Can Help “Personalize” Policies to Reach the Right PeopleA/B Testing Gets an Upgrade for the Digital AgeEast Brother Light StationChapters(00:00:00) - Modernizing a 150 Year Old Lighthouse(00:03:05) - Adapting to Advancing Technology(00:04:20) - Impact of Mass Layoffs(00:06:16) - Low-Cost Scalable Solutions(00:13:37) - AI's Role in the Future of Work(00:19:45) - Managing Transitions in the Job MarketSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Effective leadership begins with the way you communicate.Leading with impact isn't about speaking louder—it's about communicating in ways that resonate with what people already value. In Part 1 of this special two-part series from the Stanford LEAD Me2We Conference, Matt Abrahams brings together four expert GSB faculty—Allison Kluger, Nir Halevy, Christian Wheeler, and Naomi Bagdonas—to explore how to lead and communicate with intention. They share how authenticity builds trust, why discomfort is essential for growth, how to design space for serendipity, and the role AI can play in expanding—not replacing—human potential. From managing reputation to staying present in high-pressure moments, this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart offers insights to help leaders connect more effectively, show up with purpose, and inspire meaningful action.Episode Reference Links:Allison Kluger Book Allison Contributed to:  Brand Up Naomi Bagdonas Nir Halevy Christian Wheeler Ep.2 Communicating Our Multiple Selves: How to Effectively Manage Your Reputation Ep.13 Make 'Em Laugh: How to Use Humor as a Secret Weapon in Your Communication Ep.30 Dissolve Disagreements: How Communication Impacts Conflict Ep.18 Managing in the Moment: How to Get Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (03:33) - Managing Reputation and Authentic Communication (05:35) - Leadership Pluralism and Team Culture (07:35) - Discomfort, Growth, and Distraction (11:59) - Guiding Principles and the Serendipity Fund (14:34) - Using AI in Teaching and Research (21:55) - Fixing Hierarchies with CPR (23:50) - Authenticity, Humor Styles, and Human Flourishing (26:39) - Executive Presence and Owning the Room (29:28) - Writing Better Titles and Facilitating Interactions (31:21) - Conclusion *****Stay Informed on Stanford's world changing research by signing up for the Stanford ReportJoin our upcoming 200th episode live event April 14 & 15Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.    

Brian Lowery, the Walter Kenneth Kilpatrick Professor of Organizational Behavior at Stanford Graduate School of Business and the author of Selfless: The Social Creation of You, argues that identity is about much more than external characteristics, family history, or the collection of experiences that compose the chronology of our lives. In fact, Lowery argues, our identities are constantly being formed, shifted, and even co-created — by the people around us. In this episode, Lowery breaks down how leaders, colleagues, and even casual acquaintances influence the people we are continually becoming — and why recognizing this can change our lives and how we experience the people we know. Understanding this social conception of the self helps us effectively navigate challenges at home and in the workplace, strengthen key relationships, and even bridge political divides.“All these constraints that you feel, maybe those are imaginary,” Lowery says. “The world opens to you, I think, if you believe this, but that is also what's terrifying about it. What's exciting is what's terrifying.”Has someone in your life changed how you see yourself? Tell us more at ifthenpod@stanford.edu.Related Content:Brian Lowery faculty profileA Provocative Theory of Identity Finds There is No “You” in SelfLet's Make a Deal: Negotiation Tips from the ExpertsQuick Thinks: How Others Define UsJanet VarneyChapters:(00:00:00) - Improv is a Team Sport(00:04:20) - Rethinking the Self(00:05:16) - Leadership and Influence(00:07:30) - The Leadership Experiment(00:11:55) - Trust in the Workplace(00:14:24) - Polarization and Social Identity(00:18:33) - The Influence of Proximity(00:20:55) - Changing Identities(00:24:38) - ConclusionThis conversation was recorded on November 13, 2024.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How to craft communication that your audience will remember.Why do some messages stick, while others go in one ear and out the other? When it comes to crafting memorable communication, Ada Aka says not all verbiage is created equal. “Certain words are intrinsically more memorable than others,” says Aka, an assistant professor of marketing at Stanford Graduate School of Business. In her research of consumer behavior and decision-making, she's uncovered how language shapes not just our perception of the world, “but how the world stays with us over time." From concrete terms to emotionally charged ones, certain words have more staying power than others, and to communicators who want to capture audiences (and keep them), she says, “Carefully chosen words, they're going to be taking the attention.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Aka joins Matt Abrahams to explore the science of memorable communication. From creating brand slogans that stick to choosing words that align with your message, she reveals how to create communication that won't be forgotten.Episode Reference Links:Ada AkaEp.80 Magic Words: Change What You Say to Inspire and Influence Others Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:05) - The Power of Words in Memory (03:45) - What Makes Words Memorable? (06:04) - Informal and Conversational Language (07:38) - AI & Memory (09:34) - Memorable Slogans (11:26) - Predicting Memorability: Why We Get It Wrong (13:15) - Framing in Communication (15:24) - Creating Meaningful Interactions (17:34) - The Final Three Questions (22:21) - Conclusion  ********Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium. 

What's one of the most powerful forces behind technological breakthroughs, business strategy, and job creation? The tax code.Rebecca Lester, an associate professor of accounting and one of three inaugural Botha-Chan Faculty Scholars at Stanford Graduate School of Business, studies how subtle tax incentives can trigger monumental business decisions, determining how companies invest, grow, and innovate.These incentives don't just shape corporate strategy — they ripple across industries, economies, and markets. From advancing clean energy to catalyzing global competition, you might think of tax policy as a blueprint for the future. The big question: how to do it right. Have tax incentives led you to make a personal or professional decision? Tell us more at ifthenpod@stanford.edu.Related Content:Rebecca Lester faculty profileAmerican Innovation Got Slammed by the “Temporary” End of a Key Tax IncentiveWhy Some Countries Want Companies to Think Inside the “Innovation Box”Tax Cuts in the UK Gave an Unexpected Boost to African EconomiesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Georgi Koreli is a remarkable athlete-turned-entrepreneur, Stanford GSB alumnus, and the visionary founder behind Hinkal, a leading privacy infrastructure company, with $250m+ private transactions processed in 2024.- 2x Stanford alum- 5 years in banking and hedge funds- Icons founder- Sambo 2x World Champion

Georgi Koreli is a remarkable athlete-turned-entrepreneur, Stanford GSB alumnus, and the visionary founder behind Hinkal, a leading privacy infrastructure company, with $250m+ private transactions processed in 2024.- 2x Stanford alum- 5 years in banking and hedge funds- Icons founder- Sambo 2x World Champion

Andrew Weinberg is Founder and CEO of Brightstar Capital Partners. Andrew serves as Chair of Brightstar's Investment Committee.  Prior to founding Brightstar, Andrew was a Partner at Lindsay Goldberg, a New York-based private equity firm. Andrew served on the Boards of 13 portfolio companies during his tenure at Lindsay Goldberg. In addition, from 2008-2011 Andrew served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Strategy Officer of Likewize. Prior to joining Lindsay Goldberg, Andrew worked at Goldman Sachs in their Principal Investment Area (PIA). Andrew started his career at Morgan Stanley in mergers and acquisitions and leveraged finance. Andrew received his MBA from Stanford GSB and an AB from Dartmouth College with a double major in History and Economics. Andrew serves as a trustee of the PGA of America REACH Foundation. Andrew is a member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO). He is a former member of the World Economic Forum who served on the Global Future Council on Investing and the Stewardship Board of the Forum's Platform on Shaping the Future of Investing. Andrew has appeared on multiple panels at Milken Institute and FII conferences.

The pen may be mightier than the sword — but the dollar beats them both. Economic leverage has long shaped the world order, and today global powers use financial networks, trade policies, and sanctions as tools of persuasion — or coercion. In this episode, Matteo Maggiori, the Moghadam Family Professor of Finance at Stanford Graduate School of Business, outlines why he believes the U.S. dollar remains the world's financial backbone, why China wants to create an alternative, and how global financial networks serve as both tools of economic statecraft and sources of financial instability in an increasingly multipolar world.This episode features Paula Findlen, the Ubaldo Pierotti Professor of History at Stanford University. How do you feel about a future where the buck no longer stops with the U.S.?? Email us at ifthenpod@stanford.edu. Related Content:Matteo Maggiori faculty profile“Geoeconomics” Explains How Countries Flex Their Financial MusclesQuick Study: China's Plan to Challenge the DollarInside China's Long March Toward Challenging the DollarSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why good communication starts with tapping into your power.Impactful communication isn't just about the words you use. According to Chris Lipp, it's about the power you deliver them with.“When we have a belief in ourselves, what we say changes,” says Lipp, a professor at Tulane University's Freeman School of Business and author of The Science of Personal Power. Throughout his career as an academic and communications coach for entrepreneurs, he's explored how tapping into personal power can transform our messages and the impact they create. "Personal power is our belief in our own capability to create impact,” he says. “When things [take] shape on the inside, we think differently, we behave differently... and other people perceive that power."In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Lipp and Matt Abrahams explore how our mindset shapes our message, sharing research-backed strategies for communicating with power. From embracing authenticity to staying grounded in our values, Lipp reveals how strong communication starts by building strength within.This episode is brought to you by Loom. Try Loom for free today at loom.com/thinkfast.Episode Reference Links:Chris Lipp Chris's Book: The Science of Person Power Ep.12 It's Not What You Say, It's How You Say It: How To Communicate PowerEp.130 Rethinks: How to Maintain a Powerful Presence in Your Communication Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:39) - From Persuasion to Power (02:35) - Defining Personal Power (03:57) - Mindset and Action-Oriented Communication (04:53) - The Power of Taking Responsibility (06:34) - Language and Personal Power (09:47) - The Four-Point Formula for Pitching (12:01) - Focusing on Benefits Over Features (12:56) - Personal Power in Pitching and Persuasion (14:06) - Nonverbal Communication and Power (16:36) - The Final Three Questions (19:20) - Conclusion  ********Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Loom

“The ultimate price of a bad system falls on the public,” says Anat Admati, the George G.C. Parker Professor of Finance and Economics at Stanford Graduate School of Business and author of The Bankers' New Clothes. “The Constitution did a lot to constrain the government, but the government has failed to constrain institutions in the private sector.” Simply put, Admati says the real problem isn't just profit-hungry corporations, it's the systems that let bad actors get away with it. From the opioid crisis and Boeing's deadly 737 MAX disasters to the 2008 financial crash, Admati identifies how U.S. institutions failed — and shares the “incredibly sobering” realization that shattered her faith in the rules and those who make them. How do you think we can restore trust in business, government, and society? Email us at ifthenpod@stanford.edu. Related LinksAnat Admati faculty profileThe Bankers' New Clothes: What's Wrong with Banking and What to Do about ItNo Rules, No Trust: How Accountability Shapes CommunicationAre Businesses Undermining Democracy?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is burnout simply the cost of doing business? What responsibility do employers have for the health and well-being of their workers? Jeffrey Pfeffer, the Thomas D. Dee II Professor of Organizational Behavior at Stanford Graduate School of Business and author of Dying for a Paycheck and 7 Rules of Power, says that the connection between workplace stress and negative health outcomes is as strong as the link between smoking and cancer — and may contribute to as many as 120,000 deaths annually in the U.S. alone.So what do we do about it? Pfeffer's answer isn't just surprising — it's a radical critique of the way we work today.Is it time to rethink the way we work? Email us at ifthenpod@stanford.edu. Related Links:Jeffrey Pfeffer faculty profile“The Workplace Is Killing People and Nobody Cares”“We Have 30 Extra Years”: A New Way of Thinking About AgingWhy “Copycat” Layoffs Won't Help Tech Companies — Or Their EmployeesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing Round 2 activity on LiveWire; this upcoming week we have two more application deadlines, Arizona / Carey and Minnesota / Carlson. Last week, we saw more interview invitations rolling out for UVA / Darden, Dartmouth / Tuck, Yale SOM, Northwestern / Kellogg and CMU / Tepper. We then discussed the role out of Clear Admit's latest innovation, our “Ask Clear Admit” chat bot, which launched the prior Thursday. We have seen hundreds of prompts come in from applicants as we launched, and the quality of the responses has impressed! You can find the chat bot here: https://ai.clearadmit.com Graham noted two upcoming webinar series. The first is for Deferred Admissions candidates, with signups here: https://bit.ly/de0225 The first webinar in this series, on February 5, features Berkeley / Haas, UPenn / Wharton and Stanford. The following week we have CMU / Tepper, Chicago / Booth, Columbia, Yale SOM and UVA / Darden. The second webinar series is for Masters in Management candidates in late February, with signups here: https://bit.ly/mim0225 Graham highlighted two MBA news stories. The first story focuses on Stanford GSB's new Dean, Sarah Soule, who has appeared on a prior Clear Admit podcast. The second covers the release of U.S. News 2025 online MBA rankings. Indiana / Kelley tops those rankings, as it has done in prior years. Graham then highlighted an admissions tip focused on the five most commonly asked MBA interview questions.  Graham also noted a Real Humans story from HEC / Paris. Finally, we discussed two more MBA career reports from Chicago / Booth and Yale SOM. Both MBA programs show the same resilience as other top MBA programs, while facing the headwinds of a tighter employment market. For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected two ApplyWire entries and one DecisionWire entry: This week's first MBA admissions candidate is based in India and working for a large conglomerate to which they intend to return. They are applying in Round 2, and we are a little concerned that this may present more challenges than if they had been able to apply in Round 1. This week's second MBA candidate also has a very interesting MBA profile but has a weak GPA of 2.9. We discussed mitigating actions they will need to take, ahead of applying next season. The final MBA candidate is deciding between Columbia and Yale SOM, and are planning a career in Clean Tech, hoping to move into private equity in that industry. This episode was recorded in Philadelphia, USA and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

Graham Weaver teaches a top-rated course at Stanford's Graduate School of Business (GSB), where he often unexpectedly ends up helping students figure out what to do with their lives. He is also the founder and CEO of Alpine Investors, a people-driven private equity firm. In our conversation, we discuss:• Why everything worthwhile requires suffering• Why most people operate on autopilot, and how to break free• The “genie methodology” for discovering your true path• The Nine Lives exercise for exploring different life possibilities• How to overcome limiting beliefs that hold you back• Why “not now” is often just another way of saying “never”• More—Brought to you by:• Merge—A single API to add hundreds of integrations into your app• Persona—A global leader in digital identity verification• Liveblocks—Ready-made collaborative features to drop into your product—Find the transcript at: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/how-to-break-out-of-autopilot-graham-weaver—Where to find Graham Weaver:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/graham-weaver-2b79• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grahamcweaver• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@grahamcweaver• Website: https://www.grahamweaver.com• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@grahamcweaver—Where to find Lenny:• Newsletter: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com• X: https://twitter.com/lennysan• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lennyrachitsky/—In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Graham's background(05:30) Helping students find their true path(07:40) The genie methodology(12:36) Breaking free from autopilot mode(17:54) Identifying and overcoming limiting beliefs(20:33) Teaching entrepreneurship and personal fulfillment(22:53) The reality of long-term success(35:14) The role of accountability and executive coaching(40:22) Daily goal setting for success(43:11) The Nine Lives framework(48:01) The dangers of the “not now” mentality(55:27) Navigating life's transitions(57:19) Failure corner(01:00:24) When to quit and when to persevere(01:02:18) Final thoughts and lightning round—Referenced:• Setting Goals: Demystified: https://www.grahamweaver.com/blog/goals• Tony Robbins's website: https://www.tonyrobbins.com• Alpine Investors: https://alpineinvestors.com• Stanford GSB Last Lecture 2024—How to Live Your Life at Full Power: https://www.grahamweaver.com/blog/stanford-graduate-business-school-last-lecture-2024• I turned 50 today. Here is the most important thing I learned in my first half century: https://www.grahamweaver.com/blog/turning-50• Where the Crawdads Sing on Prime Video: https://www.amazon.com/Where-Crawdads-Sing-Daisy-Edgar-Jones/dp/B0B5KBKDNL• Chilipad Cube Bed Cooling System: https://www.amazon.com/Chilipad-Cube-Bed-Cooling-System/dp/B07GT9MYRW• Sleepme OOLER Sleep System: https://www.amazon.com/OOLER-Sleep-System-Temperature-Integration/dp/B07RX8LT9G• Eightsleep: https://www.eightsleep.com• Howard Thurman's quote: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/6273-don-t-ask-what-the-world-needs-ask-what-makes-you—Recommended books:• Switch: How to Change Things when Change Is Hard: https://www.amazon.com/Switch-Change-Things-When-Hard/dp/0385528752• The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself: https://www.amazon.com/Untethered-Soul-Journey-Beyond-Yourself/dp/1572245379• Don't Believe Everything You Think: Why Your Thinking Is the Beginning and End of Suffering: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Believe-Everything-Think-Expanded/dp/B0D47VYQMY• How to Win Friends and Influence People: https://www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/0671027034—Production and marketing by https://penname.co/. For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email podcast@lennyrachitsky.com.—Lenny may be an investor in the companies discussed. Get full access to Lenny's Newsletter at www.lennysnewsletter.com/subscribe

Can the workplace be as harmful as smoking? Is it possible for governments and corporations to rebuild trust once they've lost it? How are nations wielding financial power to shape global politics? On Season Two of If/Then, Stanford Graduate School of Business faculty tackle big questions about business, leadership, and society, providing innovative, research-based insights to help you navigate rapidly changing times.Join your host, senior editor Kevin Cool, for conversations that will challenge the way you lead, think, and act. New episodes on Wednesdays, starting February 5th. Thoughts? Email us at ifthenpod@stanford.edu. More information is available here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Summary In this conversation, Phil Carter shares his journey from a Midwestern upbringing to becoming a successful product leader in the tech industry. He discusses the importance of family values, the challenges of work-life balance, and the impact of paternity leave on his relationship with his children. Phil reflects on his career shifts, the lessons learned from each chapter, and the decision to start his own consulting business for greater flexibility and autonomy. In this conversation, Phil Carter discusses the challenges of modern work culture, particularly in the tech industry, where constant connectivity and high expectations can lead to burnout. He emphasizes the importance of finding balance in life through routines, personal anchors, and prioritizing family and community. Phil also highlights the significance of self-awareness in navigating the pressures of societal expectations and the rat race, advocating for a focus on internal fulfillment rather than external validation. He concludes by sharing his wife's nonprofit, Daring Girls, which empowers young women in East Africa. Support Daring Girls: https://daringgirls.org/ About Phil After starting his career at Bain and getting his MBA from Stanford GSB, Phil Carter has spent the last decade as a VC and product leader helping companies like Faire, Quizlet, and Ibotta build world-class products and accelerate their growth. Phil is now a growth advisor and angel investor who helps Seed - Series C consumer subscription businesses define their growth strategies, build their growth models, hire their growth teams, scale their growth processes, optimize their growth channels, and achieve their full potential. Phil also teaches a Maven course on Consumer Subscription Growth and has a Substack newsletter where he shares additional thoughts. Connect to Phil:Website: https://www.philgcarter.com/ Maven Course: https://maven.com/philcarter/consumer-subscription-growth LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philgcarter/ Substack: https://philgcarter.substack.com/ X: https://x.com/philgcarter Chapters 00:00 Intro to the EpisodeChapters 03:20 Introduction to Phil Carter 06:12 Growing Up in the Midwest 08:30 Family Values and Childhood Memories 09:59 Navigating Work-Life Balance 12:21 Career Shifts and Professional Growth 16:54 The Impact of Paternity Leave 22:44 Starting a New Chapter: Entrepreneurship 24:48 The Pressure of Constant Connectivity 27:11 The Dynamics of Tech Culture 30:22 Navigating the Rat Race 32:49 Finding Balance in Life 35:41 Anchors of Stability 39:03 Production vs. Production Capacity 42:50 Empowering Young Women through Daring Girls

Jensen Huang, co-founder and CEO of NVIDIA, believes leadership is about more than making decisions—it's about empowering others to reason through ambiguity and drive transformative change. In this bonus episode of If/Then, Huang sits down with Stanford GSB student Shantam Jain, MBA '24, on Stanford GSB's View From The Top podcast, to discuss his journey from an ambitious engineer to the leader of one of the most innovative companies in the world. Huang reflects on the lessons learned during pivotal moments in NVIDIA's history, from betting on 3D graphics before the market existed to embracing the potential of AI and accelerated computing. “You can't create change by doing what everyone else is doing,” Huang explains. “You have to go back to first principles and ask: how would you build this today?” Despite navigating industry disruptions and financial crises, Huang remains focused on the future. He shares how NVIDIA has consistently stayed ahead by building technology that not only solves today's problems but anticipates the needs of tomorrow. As this episode reveals, it's not just about technological breakthroughs—it's about cultivating a culture of resilience and purpose to redefine the future.For a full transcript of this episode, visit our podcast's website. More Resources:View From The Top: The Podcast | Stanford GSBJensen Huang on How to Use First-Principles Thinking to Drive Decisions | Stanford GSB Chapters: (00:00:00) IntroductionKevin Cool introduces a bonus episode from the View From The Top podcast featuring CEO and founder of NVIDIA, Jensen Huang.(00:01:39) Early Career and Founding NVIDIAHuang reflects on his journey from LSI Logic to co-founding NVIDIA.(00:04:56) Securing Early InvestmentsConvincing Silicon Valley investors to back NVIDIA in a non-existent market.(00:08:31) Pivoting in the Face of FailureThe critical decisions and resets that saved NVIDIA during challenges.(00:16:24) Call That Changed EverythingThe pivotal phone call that led to a shift in NVIDIA's innovation focus.(00:19:21) Finding Conviction The balance of core beliefs and early indicators of future success.(00:26:45) Weathering Market DownturnsStaying focused on unchanging principles to weather external challenges.(00:31:36) Creating a Flat OrganizationEmpowering employees by sharing context and reasoning transparently.(00:38:13) The Future of Generative AIGenerative AI's potential to redefine computing and communication(00:45:38) Building Organizations for TomorrowDesigning adaptable, future-focused organizations from first principles.(00:48:22) Challenges and Opportunities AheadChallenges NVIDIA faces, and the innovations Huang is most excited about.(00:51:33) Pace and Regulation of AI DevelopmentThe need for regulatory measures alongside rapid technological advancements.(00:55:35) Rapid-Fire Insights and Final AdvicePersonal reflections, leadership advice, and hopes for NVIDIA's legacy.(00:57:21) ConclusionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The “Best of 2024” episode features sixteen don't miss moments from HR executives and thought leaders...So, who can you expect to learn from on this episode?Rhonda Morris, CHRO, ChevronJeffrey Pfeffer, Professor Stanford University and Author of 16 books including the “7 Rules of PowerKerrie Peraino, Chief People Officer at VerilyKevin Wilde, Executive Leadership and Talent Development Expert & AuthorKelly Monahan, Managing Director, Research Institute at UpworkDave Ulrich, Bob Eichinger, and Allan ChurchLybra Clemons, a C-Suite executive with experience leading talent, culture, and DEIShaun Mayo, Chief People Officer, Arizona Cardinals Football ClubAmy Kates, Organization Design Expert, Consultant, Educator, and Author of Five BooksKevin Cox, Founder and President of LKC Advisory & Anthony Nyberg, Director, Center for Executive Succession at University of South CarolinaJordana Kammerud, SVP & CHRO, CorningLucien Alziari, EVP and CHRO of Prudential Financial, IncGinger King, CHRO, Kohler Co.Tim Richmond, EVP & Chief Human Resources Officer, AbbVieStephanie Lilak, EVP & Chief People Officer, Mondelez InternationalPrasad Setty, Lecturer, Stanford GSB, Advisor, Former VP at Google, People Ops and WorkspaceEpisode Sponsor:Next-Gen HR Accelerator - Learn more about this best-in-class leadership development program for next-gen HR leaders

Behind every lesson lies a journey of discovery. In this special episode of If/Then, we step into the classrooms of Stanford Graduate School of Business to uncover the human stories driving extraordinary insights. Christian Wheeler, professor of marketing at Stanford GSB, challenges our fear of failure, reframing it as the sharp edge where growth truly happens. “Be comfortable being uncomfortable,” he says, urging leaders to embrace the anxiety of pushing limits to unlock their peak potential.Michele Gelfand, a professor of organizational behavior, takes us into the intricate world of cultural intelligence. “Negotiating across cultures isn't just about competence—it's about curiosity,” she explains, showing how understanding diverse perspectives can transform deadlock into breakthrough.And Jesper Sørensen, professor of organizational behavior, redefines what it means to lead. “Strategy isn't a blueprint; it's a living process,” he reflects, advocating for leaders to connect the dots, not just assign tasks, and to see uncertainty as a gateway to discovery.These faculty members remind us that leadership is as much about understanding ourselves as it is about guiding others. Whether it's failure, negotiation, or strategy, this episode showcases how curiosity and humanity are integral to leadership.Key Takeaways:Strategy is dynamic, not static: Leaders must explain the "why" to align their teams.Fear of failure can hinder growth: Growth requires embracing discomfort and using storytelling to connect and lead.Metaphors as tool for negotiation: Use metaphors to guide your goals and assess your success in the negotiation process. More Resources:Christian Wheeler, faculty profileJesper Sørensen, faculty profileMichele Gelfand, faculty profileClass TakeawaysThis episode of If/Then uses previously recorded audio and is repackaged in a new way. It features faculty talking about their research and the goal is to share more about faculty, while also keeping the If/Then podcast feed producing thought-provoking, research-backed content for our audiences. Chapters: (00:00:00) IntroductionKevin Cool introduces the episode featuring clips from the Class Takeaways series.(00:00:55) Embracing FailureProfessor Christian Wheeler discusses how embracing failure can lead to growth.(00:03:55) Strategy as a Dynamic ProcessProfessor Jesper Sørensen redefines strategy as an evolving course of action, not a static plan.(00:08:00) Cultural Intelligence in NegotiationProfessor Michele Gelfand explains how cultural intelligence is key to negotiation.(00:12:31) ConclusionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Let's dive into the last episode of this week with a returning guest, Jesse Buckingham, talking about the evolving technology in the transportation business! Today, Jesse presents Vooma's vision to streamline logistics by reducing manual tasks, the critical role of speed and efficiency in freight brokerage, valuable startup insights, and rapid AI advancements!   About Jesse Buckingham Jesse is a founder of Vooma, an automation platform for freight brokers and carriers that automates email quoting and load building using AI. Vooma has been adopted by leading brokers like Echi, MODE and Arrive to maintain and further build their competitive advantage. Before Vooma, Jesse was the CEO of a logistics software company that sold to brokers, carriers and fleet owners that he grew from $2M to $20M+ ARR. Previously Jesse was a strategy consultant with Bain & Company and earned his MBA from Stanford GSB.   Connect with Jesse Website: https://www.vooma.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-buckingham-79649a26/  

Whether you're curious about Stanford GSB's iconic essay question, tips for nailing your application, or the unique benefits of an MBA on the West Coast, you're in for a treat in this episode of the Clear Admit MBA Admissions Podcast. Assistant Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid Erin Nixon provides a behind-the-scenes look at MBA admissions at Stanford, digging into what to expect in the interview, how to approach the application essays and more.

In this week's MBA Admissions podcast we began by discussing the activity of MBA LiveWire; upcoming this week several top MBA programs will be releasing their Round 1 decisions including Stanford, Chicago / Booth, Yale SOM, Michigan / Ross, Cornell / Johnson, CMU / Tepper, Emory / Goizueta, Boston College / Carroll and Georgia / Terry. INSEAD is scheduled to release its Round 2 interview invites. Graham highlighted the upcoming webinar series for Masters in Management programs, which will be held this week on December 3rd and 4th, and include Chicago / Booth, Georgetown / McDonough, Michigan / Ross, Duke / Fuqua, Emory / Goizueta and Notre Dame / Mendoza. Signups are still available: https://bit.ly/camim24 Graham then shared four admissions tips. The first two tips focus on those who applied in Round 1, helping candidates decide between different offers, and what to do if you are placed on a wait list at your target MBA program. The second two tips focus on those who are applying in Round 2, helping candidates identify target programs, and choosing their recommenders. We then discussed two Real Humans stories, focused on MBA students at UCLA / Anderson and Washington / Foster. Graham then presented the first career placement report of the Class of 2024 season, from UVA / Darden. Frankly, their placement statistics, which were very similar to last season, look quite impressive given the potential challenges in the hiring market we've been hearing about (with tech layoffs and a slowing of consulting hiring). Finally, Graham previewed a podcast episode he recently conducted with Erin Nixon, the Assistant Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at Stanford GSB. This will be published this week, so watch this space! For this week, for the candidate profile review portion of the show, Alex selected three ApplyWire entries: This week's first MBA admissions candidate has significant work experience in the media and entertainment space and has now come to the realization that an MBA may well be a good next step. We think she will have interesting opportunities if her quant profile is strong. This week's second MBA candidate is targeting next season and has a GMAT score of 770. They also have very decent tech-focused work experience, and we think they should also have great options next season. The final MBA candidate is from Ghana and is an older candidate at 32. We discussed some of the challenges that older MBA applicants might face in the admissions process, and how to overcome those challenges. This episode was recorded in Paris, France and Cornwall, England. It was produced and engineered by the fabulous Dennis Crowley in Philadelphia, USA. Thanks to all of you who've been joining us and please remember to rate and review this show wherever you listen!

BONUS: To get the Lizness School podcast in its own feed, please FOLLOW the show in your podcast app of choice. In Lizness School Episode 7, Liz attends a Stanford vs Cal water polo game, collects her thoughts on Designing Her Life and hangs out with some students from Stanford GSB for conversation, Chipotle and a dark fantasy feminist retelling of the Mulan story The Night End With Fire by K X Song. Plus, Liz and Leah both take Gretchen Rubin's Four Tendencies Quiz and discuss the implications of being a rebel and a questioner. Special thanks to Gretchen for mentioning how much she is enjoying Lizness School on this episode of her podcast Happier. Other books mentioned in this episode: Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans. Visual Intelligence by Amy E. Herman It's Lizness not business this year for Liz Dolan as she starts her year as a Fellow at Stanford University's Distinguished Careers Institute. Start at Episode 1 if you are new to Lizness School. Liz's producer and millennial mentor Leah Sutherland gives her additional assignments about how to take it all in. Thank you to our sponsors and to listeners for using these special urls and codes. Navage, daily nasal therapy Navage.com/SISTERS and use our promo code SISTERS OSEA, clean beauty products OSEAMalibu.com, use code satsisters for 10 % off Earth Breeze, dissolvable laundry detergent sheets at earthbreeze.com/sisters For more on Liz Dolan, go to LinkedIn For more on Liz's work in podcasting, go to Satellite Sisters Follow Lizness School on all podcasting platforms including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. On Instagram, follow the show at https://www.instagram.com/liznessschool/ and follow Liz at https://www.instagram.com/satellitesisterliz/ To email Lizness School with your own questions/thoughts/suggestions for Liz, use liznessschool@gmail.com. The Distinguished Careers Institute is a unique program for late career people. Fellows are graduate students at Stanford University, able to take classes in any area. Complete information here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friends, Lovers, and Entrepreneurship: Starting a business with a Friend or Spouse Have you ever dreamed of starting a business with a friend? Or maybe launching an enterprise with your significant other?  If so, this episode is for you... Today we sit down with Purvi Mody, Co-CEO of Insight Education. Insight Education is an educational consulting company Purvi and her husband acquired, run, and have expanded dramatically--both in the US and overseas. This wide-ranging discussion touches on a number of topics, including: combining a passion for two different fields,  embracing a nontraditional career journey,  the pros and cons of starting a business with a friend or loved one,  embracing authenticity in the application process, successfully drawing lines between "work" and "home", thriving in business school as an introvert,  exploring the important ways applying to business school can "tear you down", and one special piece of advice Purvi likes to share with applicants.  Whether or not you are thinking of starting a business, this podcast is perfect for anyone wanting to take risks, boldly follow their dreams, and embrace authenticity in their MBA application.   

As leaders rise and hierarchies shift, Stanford GSB organizational behavior professor Deborah Gruenfeld, guest in season one of If/Then, reminds us that power is not just about authority—it's about presence. In this special feed drop from Pfeffer on Power, Gruenfeld, author of Acting With Power, revisits topics featured in her If/Then episode, exploring how body language and mindset can shape perceptions of influence. “We're all playing roles,” she explains, whether as CEOs, professors, or professionals navigating high-stakes environments. The key, she says, lies in mastering both "inside-out" techniques—such as reframing internal narratives—and "outside-in" strategies, like commanding physical space to exude confidence.Host Jeffrey Pfeffer, professor of organizational behavior at the GSB, and Gruenfeld discuss how power dynamics transcend culture and context, offering universal lessons for anyone looking to lead with impact. “Don't leave power to the bad guys,” Gruenfeld advises, urging listeners to embrace their own potential for influence. This episode provides actionable insights to help you show up powerfully in any room, especially when the stakes are high. As the conversation unfolds, Pfeffer and Gruenfeld challenge us to think differently about power—not as a privilege, but as a responsibility to shape better outcomes for ourselves and others.Jeffrey Pfeffer will be a guest on the second season of If/Then. Pfeffer on Power is Produced by University FM. For a full transcript of this episode, visit the Pfeffer on Power's website.More Resources:Deborah Gruenfeld, faculty profileDeborah's Book: Acting with Power Pfeffer on Power Chapters: (00:00:00) IntroductionHost Jeffrey Pfeffer introduces guest Professor Deborah Gruenfeld from Stanford GSB.(00:01:45) First Impressions and Body LanguageHow people make snap judgments based on appearance and nonverbal cues.(00:03:25) Change How You Show UpThe possibility of reframing behavior to project more confidence and authority.(00:06:33) Showing Up with PowerTwo approaches for appearing more authoritative and powerful.(00:08:53) Inside-Out PowerReframing internal narratives to project power, even in moments of insecurity.(00:11:32) Outside-In PowerTechniques for using body language to command authority.(00:14:00) Physical and Social DynamicsHow occupying space communicates dominance and influence.(00:17:06) Unconscious Reactions to Power Whether power dynamics are consistent across cultures and time.(00:20:32) Ambivalence Toward PowerWhy some individuals are reluctant to embrace power.(00:24:47) Ethical Leaders in PowerThe importance of ethical individuals embracing power to prevent its misuse by others.(00:28:14) ConclusionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What does it mean to be an AI-powered organization?How can AI help you to be a more strategic HR leader?My guest on this episode is Prasad Setty, Lecturer, Stanford GSB, Advisor, Former VP at Google, People Ops and Workspace.During our conversation Prasad and I discuss: How people analytics has evolved over the years and what's nextWhat it really means to become an AI-powered organizationWhy you should view AI as your thought partner, not as your replacementReal life examples of how AI is helping HR to deliver more value to their organizationsWhy the future of HR will center on scaling human judgment, not replacing itConnecting with Prasad: Connect with Prasad Setty LinkedInEpisode Sponsor: Deeper Signals - Click here to get your free Core Drivers assessment and 14-day free trial! Next-Gen HR Accelerator - Learn more about this best-in-class leadership development program for next-gen HR leaders

In this episode of If/Then, we're diving into insights from three GSB experts featured on Think Fast, Talk Smart. Join us as professor of organizational behavior Michele Gelfand explains her "tight and loose" cultural framework, revealing how societal structures impact everything from crime rates to creativity. We also hear from marketing professor Jonathan Levav, who explores decision fatigue in judicial settings, shedding light on how mental depletion influences choices. Finally, marketing professor Szu-chi Huang discusses the role of motivation and emotionality in decision-making, drawing from her experiences in advertising and academia. Together, these discussions provide a multifaceted view of the elements influencing our choices and interactions.Key Takeaways:Switch between “tight” and “loose” mindsets: Individuals can code switch between “tight” and “loose” mindsets depending on the setting. You can shape your environment to help promote certain mindsets.Take mental breaks: Decision fatigue causes individuals to make the easier decision, not necessarily better ones. Taking breaks can help replenish your mental energy to think through decisions properly.Target your audience's emotional needs: Emotion drives decision making. Messaging that meets emotional needs is more impactful.More Resources:Michele Gelfand, faculty profileJonathan Levav, faculty profileSzu-chi Huang, faculty profileThink Fast Talk Smart If/Then is a podcast from Stanford Graduate School of Business that examines research findings that can help us navigate the complex issues we face in business, leadership, and society. For a full transcript of this episode, visit our podcast's website.Chapters: (00:00:00) IntroductionKevin Cool introduces the episode featuring GSB faculty discussing their research on the Think Fast, Talk Smart podcast.(00:00:35) Cultural Tightness vs. LoosenessThe benefits of "tight" versus "loose" culture.(00:03:47) Adjusting to Different Cultural NormsWhether individuals can adapt to cultural tightness or looseness.(00:05:24) Decision Fatigue in Court SettingsA study on how decision fatigue affects parole rulings over time.(00:07:29) Communication to Combat Decision FatigueInsights into overcoming decision fatigue and enhancing communication.(00:09:48) The Roots of MotivationThe transition from advertising to studying motivation in academia.(00:11:13) Needs and Emotions in Decision-MakingThe influence of needs and emotions in effective decision-making.(00:13:43) ConclusionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Artificial intelligence could fundamentally transform democracy for better or worse. In this bonus episode of If/Then: Business, Leadership, Society, Professor Andrew B. Hall of Stanford Graduate School of Business explores AI's potential to disrupt our electoral system. With the 2024 presidential election approaching, Hall warns that AI-generated misinformation could sway voters and erode trust in democratic processes. Yet he also sees AI's potential to solve political challenges. If we want to maintain a healthy democracy, then it's crucial to understand AI's impact on our political landscape in the upcoming election and beyond.Key Takeaways:AI's potential for misinformation: Professor Hall warns that AI-generated content misinform voters, potentially influencing election outcomes.Threat to democratic integrity: The possibility of AI-driven misinformation could erode trust in the fairness and integrity of democratic processes, leading to decreased acceptance of election outcomes.AI's dual nature in politics: While AI poses significant risks, Hall also thinks it could provide solutions to existing political problems, suggesting it will have a complex, double-edged impact on democracy.More Resources:Andrew Hall, faculty profileWhite Paper: Preparing for Generative AI in the 2024 Election: Recommendations and Best Practices Based on Academic Research, By Ethan Bueno de Mesquita, Brandice Canes-Wrone, Andrew B. Hall, Kristian Lum, Gregory J. Martin, Yamil Ricardo Velez, Stanford Graduate School of Business and the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, November 2023If/Then is a podcast from Stanford Graduate School of Business that examines research findings that can help us navigate the complex issues we face in business, leadership, and society. For a full transcript of this episode, visit our podcast's website.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One underappreciated fact about the explosion in genetic databases, like consumer sites that provide information about ancestry and health, is that they unlock valuable insights not only into an individual's past and future, but also for that individual's entire family.This raises serious concerns about privacy for people who have never submitted their genetic information for analysis, yet share much the same code as one who did.This week on If/Then, we're sharing an interview from The Future of Everything with Stanford GSB Professor Kuang Xu. Xu is an expert in how genetic information can and should be used. He says that the DNA problem weighs heavily on privacy experts in fields ranging from law and engineering to public health and criminal justice. The fundamental question is: Can we create methods for accessing genetic data while maximizing the privacy of all involved?The Future of Everything is Produced by Stanford Engineering. For a full transcript of this episode, visit The Future of Everything's website.Chapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Kevin Cool introduces an episode featuring The Future of Everything podcast with host Russ Altman and guest Kuang Xu, a professor at the GSB. (00:03:24) Genetic Technology and Privacy RisksThe key ideas and methodology behind making genetic searches more private.(00:06:23) Social Network and Genealogy in Genetic SearchesHow a genealogy network functions as a social network in genetic searches.(00:09:23) Technical Aspects of Securing Genetic DataThe difference between sequential and static methods for genetic searches.(00:11:19) Practical Application of Sequential MethodsWays the sequential search method could be applied without compromising privacy.(00:12:43) First Steps in Sequential SearchWhat the first steps would look like when using the sequential search method.(00:14:41) Balancing Accuracy and PrivacyWhether the new privacy methods compromise accuracy in identifying individuals.(00:15:22) Applications in Genetic ResearchHow privacy methods can apply to genetic research for disease prediction and beyond.(00:18:22) Insights During ResearchSurprise findings from Kuang's research on genetic privacy.(00:21:28) Privacy Beyond GeneticsThe possibility of applying these privacy techniques to other sensitive datasets.(00:22:58) Commercial Interest in Privacy SolutionsThe interest from companies in adopting these privacy innovations.(00:24:09) Genetics and Business School ConnectionKuang's work at Stanford's School of Business and how it connects to genetics and privacy.(00:25:30) Emergency Room Waiting TimesResearch related to reducing waiting times in emergency rooms.(00:26:57) In-Person Voting and COVID-19 SpreadOverview of data collected during in-person voting during COVID-19.(00:27:54) ConclusionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Power dynamics in the office can have an outsized impact on your career. When we talked to Deborah Gruenfeld in Season One of If/Then, she shared expert insights on navigating workplace power and influence. And some exciting news - that episode has been nominated for a Signal Award. Help us win a Listener Choice Award by casting your vote at stanford.io/ifthenpower. A log-in is required to vote. Thank you for helping us make this possible!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This special episode of If/Then: Business, Leadership, Society explores the personal stories behind Stanford GSB faculty's groundbreaking research. Discover how individual experiences shape scholarly inquiry.Baba Shiv, professor of marketing, examines decision-making and the brain's liking and wanting systems. His self-proclaimed "irrational" nature led him to question whether good decisions are based on reason or emotion.Mohammad Akbarpour, professor of economics, found his passion in market design, seeing economics as "the right mix of thinking about humans and mathematics." His research on welfare economics stems from observing economic disparities in his native Iran.Deborah Gruenfeld, professor of organizational behavior, studies power dynamics inspired by her early career and family history. Her work reveals how even arbitrary positions of authority can dramatically alter behavior.These faculty remind us that behind every groundbreaking theory are real people driven by curiosity to make sense of the world around them. Join us to hear how personal journeys fuel impactful business research.Key Takeaways:Personal experiences shape research: Leading scholars draw inspiration from their own lives and observations, leading to innovative research questions and approaches.Challenging assumptions drives discovery: Researchers like Baba Shiv, Mohammad Akbarpour, and Deborah Gruenfeld push boundaries by questioning fundamental assumptions in their fields and themselves, leading to new insights.Human stories behind data: This episode reveals that even in data-driven fields like economics and organizational behavior, personal narratives and curiosity play a crucial role in shaping impactful research.More Resources:Baba Shiv, faculty profileMohammad Akbarpour, faculty profileDeborah Gruenfled, faculty profileFor a full transcript of this episode, visit our podcast's website. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to Grit & Growth's masterclass on leadership with Collins Dobbs, a Stanford Graduate School of Business lecturer in leadership and a seasoned executive coach. According to Dobbs, becoming a truly phenomenal leader requires a deeper understanding of both yourself and your team, enabling you to navigate tough conversations, develop real connections, and create a culture where people feel safe to offer real feedback.As an executive coach, Collins Dobbs has worked with senior leaders across industries to help them navigate complex team dynamics and enhance their emotional intelligence. As an instructor for the popular Interpersonal Dynamics course (affectionately known as "Touchy Feely"), he also helps young leaders in the Stanford GSB classroom to foster self-awareness, communicate more authentically, and develop the building blocks for effective leadership in their personal and professional worlds.Key Takeaways Be a signal generator“People are looking for leaders to communicate how they navigate in the good times, but also in the challenging times. Are they open to innovation? Are they open to ideas? Are they open to creating opportunities for success and failure? That's a big job of leaders to generate those signals to say, it's okay. We welcome mistakes and risks as long as we learn from them and fix them going forward.” Be open to giving and receiving feedback“We come in and we have thoughts. And often underneath those thoughts are feelings. And so while the thoughts sometimes say what's important to us, oftentimes the feelings signal how important they are. We try to help the students understand both their thoughts and their feelings. And then as they interact with each other, understand their intentions, the impact of the behavior, and what comes up for them and what comes up for others as well.”Embrace the unknowing“A piece of leadership is about: What do I do in the not knowing? I don't know exactly what I need to know when markets change, when staffs change, when skills change. That's part of leadership. And part of it is, is a willingness to stand in the unknowing and a trust in oneself and others that we can figure it out.”Make sure you have the right support system“I think peer groups are tremendously important. If it's a CEO roundtable, or a group of alumni, do you have a circle of people where you can really be authentic? Because you're not alone.”Lead with space, pace, and grace“Can we pause? Can we create an understanding? Can we see where we're missing expectations from each other? Can we state what those expectations are? And then can we make a plan in terms of how we're willing to work together to meet that?”Listen to Collins Dobbs' advice to aspiring and experienced leaders on how to become not just a good leader, but a phenomenal one.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why organizational strategy can be both top-down and bottom-up.As Professor Jesper Sørensen sees it, a winning strategy is the result of conversations, not commands, and that strategy can be directed from the C-suite, but it doesn't have to be. “Lots of great strategies are discovered,” he says, “they're discovered because the leaders were able to listen to their frontline workers or their frontline managers.” A more iterative approach, says Sørensen, helps companies adapt their strategy to an ever-changing landscape.In the latest episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Sørensen joins host and lecturer Matt Abrahams to discuss how organizations can use better communication to craft better strategies.Episode Reference Links:Stanford GSB Profile: Jesper B. SørensenSørensen's Book: Making Great StrategyOriginal Episode: Ep.71 Strategy Success: How to Communicate Your Gameplan Website / YouTube Ep.103 Simple is a Superpower: How to Communicate Any Idea to Any Audience Website / YouTube Ep.41 Speak Like a Founder: How Successful Entrepreneurs Communicate to Their Teams Website / YouTube Connect:Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Matt Abrahams introduces Jesper Sørensen,  professor of organizational behavior at the GSB(00:01:38) Defining StrategyThe core of strategy as securing an organization's economic prosperity, distinct from planning.(00:03:21) Common Misconceptions about StrategyMisunderstandings leaders often have regarding the nature of strategy (00:05:07) Strategy ArgumentThe concept of a strategy argument, a structured approach to strategic decision-making.(00:07:04) Strategy as a Communication ToolThe need for strategic communication to align and adapt within an organization.(00:10:53) The Dynamic Nature of StrategyHow strategies evolve and the importance of feedback from all organizational levels.(00:12:29) Storytelling in Strategy CommunicationThe power of storytelling in creating and communicating a coherent strategic vision.(00:14:55) Propagating Strategy Through StorytellingHow leaders can use storytelling to align their teams with a strategy.(00:17:01) The Final Three QuestionsJesper shares communication advice he's received, a communicator he admires, and his ingredients for successful communication.(00:23:39) Conclusion (00:00) - Introduction (01:38) - Defining Strategy (03:21) - Common Misconceptions about Strategy (05:07) - The Concept of a Strategy Argument (07:04) - Strategy as a Communication Tool (10:53) - The Dynamic Nature of Strategy (12:29) - Storytelling in Strategy Communication (14:55) - Propagating Strategy Through Storytelling (17:01) - The Final Three Questions (23:39) - Conclusion

“Acts of trust are the bedrock on which relationships are formed.”There's a lot in the world to make us cynical about other people and their motives and intentions. But by “trusting loudly,” Professor Jamil Zaki believes we can renew our faith in one another.Zaki is a professor of psychology at Stanford, director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience lab, and author of several books, including his most recent, Hope for Cynics: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness. While many people feel suspicious of others and are reluctant to trust them, Zaki finds that relying on other people is a necessary part of forming relationships.“Acts of trust are the bedrock on which relationships are formed,” Zaki says. “The only way that strangers become friends and friends become best friends, the only way that we can build partnerships is through a willingness to count on one another.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Zaki joins host Matt Abrahams to discuss practical strategies for fostering trust and challenging our cynical assumptions, offering a hopeful perspective on human nature, backed by surprising scientific insights.Episode Reference Links:Jamil Zaki: WebsiteStanford Profile: Jamil Zaki Jamil's Lab: Stanford Social Neuroscience Lab Jamil's Book: Hope for CynicsEp.84 Quick Thinks: How Others Define Us Website / YouTube Ep. 129 Connect Deeply: How to Communicate So People Feel Seen and Heard Website / YouTube Connect:Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn,  Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Matt Abrahams introduces guest Jamil Zaki, director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience Lab.(00:01:03) Defining Trust and Its ImportanceA definition of trust and its impact on relationships with others.(00:01:54) Building Better TrustDeveloping trust, with a focus on communication and "trusting loudly."(00:03:24) Understanding Cynicism The concept of cynicism, its impact on social interactions, and the idea of the cynicism trap.(00:05:47) The Cynicism Spectrum Whether cynicism is binary or a spectrum, and what the opposite of cynicism looks like.(00:08:07) Fostering Hopeful SkepticismHow to cultivate hopeful skepticism instead of falling into cynicism.(00:10:20) Challenges of Overcoming CynicismAdvice on expanding worldviews and managing confirmatory experiences.(00:15:10) Self-Fulfilling Prophecies The power of self-fulfilling prophecies and how they shape social interactions.(00:17:31) The Final Three QuestionsJamil's approach to communicating concepts eloquently, a communicator he admires and his ingredients for successful communication.(00:24:36) Conclusion (00:00) - Introduction (01:03) - Defining Trust and Its Importance (01:54) - Building Better Trust (03:24) - Understanding Cynicism (05:47) - The Cynicism Spectrum (08:07) - Fostering Hopeful Skepticism (10:20) - Challenges of Overcoming Cynicism (15:10) - Self-Fulfilling Prophecies (17:31) - The Final Three Questions (24:36) - Conclusion

In May, B-Schooled co-host Chandler returned to the Bay Area for his 20-year Stanford GSB reunion.  During the weekend, Chandler kept a notebook at his side and wrote down a number of thought-provoking quotes and notes from classmates and friends. In the second part of this two-episode arc, Chandler shares 5 additional reflections related to his MBA experience and intervening 20 years.  These reflections--coming both from his own experience as well as those of his classmates--touch on a range of topics, including why: one big problem with perfection,  why changing your own narrative is not only ok but essential,   the double-edged sword of social media, and   several very specific dangers of the very successful. Whether you're targeting Stanford or are just curious to hear how Stanford GSB grads reflect on their experience, this podcast provides a unique sneak peek into the reunion experience at one of the world's top business schools.

Artificial intelligence can now do a lot of things. But if you're worried about it taking your place as a communicator, Russ Altman says you need to question why you're communicating in the first place.Altman is a professor of bioengineering, a senior fellow at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence, and host of Stanford Engineering's podcast, The Future of Everything. According to him, advancing technology isn't a threat to human creativity and connection, but a tool we can use to raise our own standards for communication.“If you're worried that a ChatGPT-type tool can replace you, you need to [ask]: Why am I communicating? What am I trying to say? Do I have a message?” he says. “If those things are true, it shouldn't be a problem. It should actually amplify and improve your message.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Altman and host Matt Abrahams explore how effective communication can help us envision, articulate, and navigate towards our desired future, in our relationships, in our work, and in society.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Russ B. AltmanThe Future of Everything Podcast | Stanford University School of Engineering Ep.109 Simplify! How to Communicate Complex Ideas Simply and Effectively Website / YouTube Ep.3 When Knowing Too Much Can Hurt Your Communication: How to Make Complex Ideas Accessible Website / YouTubeConnect:Email Questions & Feedback >>> thinkfast@stanford.eduEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInStanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & TwitterChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Matt Abrahams introduces guest Russ Altman, professor of bioengineering at Stanford University and host of The Future of Everything podcast.(00:01:00) The Future of Communication and AIHow AI can challenge and improve communication by bringing hidden biases to light.(00:03:06) Practical Uses of AI in CommunicationUsing AI to improve clarity and focus in professional communications.(00:04:08) Writing Effective Proposals and GrantsCrafting effective proposals by aligning with audience needs and clearly defining objectives.(00:06:07) Simplifying Complex InformationMaking complex information understandable without oversimplification.(00:08:31) Preparation in CommunicationHow preparing for tough questions can improve clarity and engagement in presentations.(00:10:13) The Art of Asking QuestionsCrafting and following up with thoughtful questions to foster deeper conversations.(00:13:13) Building Effective and Diverse TeamsBuilding effective teams through diversity, clear roles, and strong relationships.(00:15:12) Balancing Rigor and Support The balance between challenging team members and maintaining a supportive environment.(00:17:13) Lessons from ‘The Future of Everything'The importance of passion in pursuing meaningful work and communicating complex ideas.(00:18:09) The Final Three QuestionsRuss shares what he's excited about for the future, a communicator he admires, and the first three ingredients for successful communication.(00:21:30) ConclusionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In May, B-Schooled co-host Chandler returned to the Bay Area for his 20-year Stanford GSB reunion.  During the weekend, Chandler kept a notebook at his side and wrote down a number of thought-provoking quotes and notes from classmates and friends. In the first part of this two-episode arc, Chandler shares 5 reflections related to his MBA experience as intervening 20 years.  These reflections--coming both from his own experience as well as those of his classmates--touch on a range of topics, including why: focusing on what you are “supposed to do” is only valuable up to a point,  the power of being “joyfully irritated” shouldn't be ignored,   the “write your own obituary” exercise isn't necessarily the way to look back on your life.   Not enough people are discussing a little secret about imposter syndrome, and  two specific criteria to look for in friends during business school (and beyond) Whether you're targeting Stanford or are just curious to hear how Stanford GSB grads reflect on their experience, this podcast provides a unique sneak peek into the reunion experience at one of the world's top business schools.  

Navigators know the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. In charting a course through communication, Susan Rice says the best route is often the most direct.Throughout her career at the forefront of American diplomacy and foreign policy, Rice has been no stranger to high-stakes situations that hinge on clear and candid communication. As she says, “I'm very direct. I don't believe in playing games, going around people, and being passive-aggressive. I shoot straight.” Rice graduated from Stanford University in 1986 and served as the US Ambassador to the United Nations from 2009 to 2013 and the National Security Advisor from 2013 to 2017. She is currently the Bernard and Susan Liautaud Visiting Fellow. Rice is the author of Tough Love: My Story of the Things Worth Fighting For.But beyond being direct herself, Rice knows the value of allowing others to be direct with her. “If you give it, you got to be able to take it,” she says. “I've benefited at various stages of my career from colleagues who've been kind enough to give me the hard truths or the tough love to enable me to be better and help me to recognize where I'm falling short.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Rice and host Matt Abrahams discuss how to foster personal and professional relationships where candidness can thrive — even when communicating with those we don't agree with.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Freeman Spogli Institute Profile: Susan E. RiceSusan's Book: Tough LoveEp.35 Leading from the Hot Seat: How to Communicate Under Pressure Website / YouTubeConnect:Email Questions & Feedback >>> thinkfast@stanford.eduEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInStanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & TwitterChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Matt Abrahams introduces guest Dr. Susan Rice, former White House official and representative to the United Nations.(00:00:56) Leadership PrinciplesSusan discusses vision, direction, and the importance of people in leadership.(00:03:10) Giving and Receiving FeedbackImportance of direct communication and the value of constructive feedback.(00:05:01) Negotiation InsightsStrategies for understanding and leveraging positions in negotiations(00:06:50) Enjoyment of NegotiationThe skills and satisfaction involved in successful negotiations.(00:07:59) Standing OutAdvice for those who find themselves different from others in their professional environments.(00:10:33) The Final Three QuestionsSusan shares how she balances family political differences, communicators she admires, and ingredients for successful communication.(00:16:17) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Becoming a better communicator is one of the best ways to level up your career. Being able to think on your feet and communicate ideas effectively is critical, no matter what role you have right now, or where you'd like to be in the coming years. Our guest today, Matt Abrahams, is just the guide you need to help you improve your communication skills. Matt is a leading expert in communication with decades of experience as an educator, author, podcast host, and coach. He lectures at Stanford's Graduate School of business where he teaches popular classes in strategic communication and effective virtual presenting.  Last year Matt wrote the book Think Faster, Talk Smarter, which aims to teach you how to speak successfully when you're put on the spot. We talk with Matt about how to become a better presenter, how improv can help your speaking skills, and the winning formula for an impromptu toast. Bio Matt Abrahams is a leading communication expert with decades of experience as an educator, author, podcast host, and coach. He lectures in Organizational Behavior at Stanford University's Graduate School of Business, where he teaches strategic communication and virtual presenting. Recognized with Stanford GSB's Alumni Teaching Award, Matt's influence extends beyond the classroom as a sought-after keynote speaker and consultant. Matt has guided presenters for IPO road shows, Nobel Prize, TED, and World Economic Forum presentations, and consults for the United Nations' Secretary General's Strategic Planning and Communication Office. His popular podcast, Think Fast, Talk Smart, has garnered millions of views, and his books, Think Faster, Talk Smarter and Speaking Up without Freaking Out, provide practical techniques to help individuals communicate confidently and manage speaking anxiety. *** Premium Episodes on Design Better This is a premium episode on Design Better. We release two premium episodes per month, along with two free episodes for everyone. Premium subscribers also get access to our monthly AMAs with former guests, ad-free episodes, discounts and early access to workshops, access to our (small but growing!) library of books and participation in book giveaways, and our new enhanced newsletter The Brief that compiles salient insights, quotes, readings, and creative processes uncovered in the show.  Upgrade to paid *** Visiting the links below is one of the best ways to support our show: Zeplin: Few things frustrate designers quite as much as seeing the UI they've meticulously designed, botched when built out. But Zeplin can help you make every design-to-dev handoff efficient and accurate so you nail every release on time and on budget. Design Better listeners can get their first month of the Basic Plan free. Just go to zeplin.io and use code DESIGNBETTER to get your first month of the Basic Plan free. Methodical Coffee: Roasted, blended, brewed, served and perfected by verified coffee nerds

"In a leadership role, so much more of communication is about connecting with people, establishing shared humanity, motivating them, inspiring them, sometimes challenging them." On August 1, 2024, Jonathan D. Levin, the tenth dean of Stanford Graduate School of Business, was appointed the President of Stanford University. In this Think Fast, Talk Smart episode from 2022, Levin reflects on the importance of communication as a leader. There is a balance, he says, in being direct with your dialogue, while also "leaving space for people to form their own opinions, to discuss ideas, to debate."Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Jonathan LevinOriginal Episode: Ep.68 Directive vs. Dialogue: Communicating Better as a Leader Website / YouTube Connect:Email Questions & Feedback >>> thinkfast@stanford.eduEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInStanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & TwitterChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Matt Abrahams introduces guest Jon Levin, Dean of Stanford Graduate School of Business.(00:01:33) Evolution of Communication in LeadershipHow Jon's communication has evolved over his career.(00:03:30) Best Practices in Leadership CommunicationCommunicating with clarity during times of ambiguity and challenge.(00:06:16) The Future of Communication in BusinessThe role of communication in business leadership and education.(00:07:00) Teaching Capitalism Amid Societal IssuesHow Stanford GSB educates students on capitalism while addressing modern challenges.(00:10:35) Expanding Business EducationThe Stanford GSB's initiatives to reach and educate a broader audience.(00:13:02) The Final Three QuestionsJohn shares his best communication advice, a communicator he admires and ingredients for successful communication. (00:15:17) ConclusionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tara VanDerveer has more wins than any other coach in NCAA basketball history. But as she says, motivating and leading teams isn't about barking orders. Communication, she says, “It starts, number one, with listening.”For VanDerveer, leadership isn't about a power dynamic, but a collaboration between her and her team. “I can't do it by myself and they can't do it by themselves. But as a team, we can,” she says. From seeking opinions from her assistant coaches to connecting with players about life outside the gym, VanDerveer recognizes that championships are won through communication. “The relationships that you have with your players, the communication that you have with them, will determine your success as a coach,” she says.In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, VanDerveer and host Matt Abrahams explore more communication insights from on and off the court — being clear and concise, giving praise and positive feedback, and letting go of perfectionism.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Cardinal Profile: Website Ep.102 Create Presence: How to Communicate in a Way Others Can Feel Website / YouTube Ep.35 Leading From The Hot Seat: How To Communicate Under Pressure Website / YouTube Connect:Email Questions & Feedback >>> thinkfast@stanford.eduEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInStanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & TwitterChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Matt Abrahams introduces guest Tara VanDerveer, former Stanford University basketball coach.(00:00:59) Building Trust and OpennessFostering an environment where players feel comfortable being challenged and pushing themselves.(00:01:52) Communicating Under PressureStrategies for speaking clearly and concisely during crucial moments in games.(00:05:24) Motivation and FocusMotivating a team during challenging times and keeping them focused after successes.(00:07:26) The Value of RoutineThe value and impact of routines in practice and performance.(00:09:01) Positive Feedback and PraiseBalancing constructive criticism with positive feedback to foster player growth.(00:10:46) Taking RisksInsights on taking risks in career and coaching strategies.(00:12:56) Dual Role of CoachingThe dual role of a coach in ensuring both athletic and personal growth for players.(00:14:11) Handling Turnover and OnboardingManaging player turnover and integrating new team members.(00:16:39) Managing EmotionsTechniques for staying calm and focused during high-emotion situations.(00:17:55) Handling Mistakes and Staying PositiveMethods for helping players move past mistakes and stay focused.(00:19:35) Equity in SportsAddressing and advocating for equity between women's and men's sports.(00:21:21) Final Three QuestionsTara shares how to accept praise, two communicators she admires, and her recipe for successful communication.(00:26:30) ConclusionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Every day in the cafe we are called on to communicate "in the moment". Whether we are baristas, trainers, managers, or owners ; how effective we are in those moments determines the culture and effectiveness of our business. Wouldn't it be great if there were tools and methods formed specifically to help you not freak out under the pressure of impromptu speaking but to be clear and confident instead? Well you're in luck because today we get to talk with the author of the book Think Faster, Talk Smarter, Matt Abrahams!  Matt Abrahams is a passionate, collaborative and innovative educator, author, podcast host, and coach. He is the Larsen Lam Family Lecturer in Organizational Behavior at Stanford University's Graduate School of Business where he teaches two very popular classes in Strategic Communication and Effective Virtual Presenting. He received Stanford GSB's Alumni Teaching Award in recognition of his valued service to teaching Stanford Alumni around the world. In addition to his teaching, Matt is much sought-after keynote speaker and communication consultant for Fortune 100 companies. His online talks garner millions of views and he hosts the popular, award winning GSB podcast called Think Fast Talk Smart. Matt is also the author of the book that is the subject of today's conversation, "Think Faster, Talk Smarter" which equips the reader with tools and strategies to be confident, articulate, and effective when called upon to speak "in the moment" We cover The Importance of Impromptu Communication Reducing the Pressure of Spontaneous Communication The Role of Listening in Effective Communication Crafting Clear and Concise Messages The Role of Values and Reputation in Communication Improving Communication Skills through Reflection, Repetition, and Feedback LINKS: https://mattabrahams.com/   Related Episodes: Blog: Good Communication is “For Here” 443: Want Impactful Messaging? Keep it Simple! w/ Author Ben Guttmann 165 : The Art of Deep Listening w/ Oscar Trimboli 415: The Best Lessons On How to Listen w/ Listening Expert, Oscar Trimboli 379 : Encore Episode! How to Deliver Difficult Feedback w/ Tom Henschel : Plus Bonus Content 334 : How to Approach Deescalation w/ Melissa Tucker of Mind Over Matters and Pathways to Peace 331 : The 7 Deadly Sins of my Career Get the best brewer and tool for batch espresso, iced lattes, and 8 minute cold brew! www.groundcontrol.coffee   The world loves plant based beverages and baristas love the Barista Series! www.pacificfoodservice.com  

“Anything is fixable,” say Frances Frei and Anne Morriss. As cohosts of the Fixable podcast, they're typically the ones doing the fixing, but on this special episode, they turn to Matt Abrahams for tips on what to do when communication breaks down.Both Frei and her wife Morriss are public speakers; the former, a professor at Harvard Business School, the latter, a CEO and best-selling author. As they discuss with Matt Abrahams, perfectionism and self-doubt can often creep in, both during preparation before speaking and after the fact. According to Matt, effective communication is about “connection, not perfection.” Instead of putting pressure on ourselves to “get it right,” Matt encourages us to shift our focus from ourselves to those we're speaking to. “Whenever you're communicating, you're in service of the audience you're communicating to,” he says. “It's not about you, it's about them and what you can do for them.”In this podcast episode, Frei, Morriss, and Matt explore frameworks and strategies for speaking more spontaneously, building confidence, managing anxiety, and course-correcting when communication goes awry.Episode Reference Links:Fixable Podcast: Website Anne Morriss & Frances Frei: Website Anne Morriss: LinkedIn Frances Frei: HBS ProfileConnect:Email Questions & Feedback >>> thinkfast@stanford.eduEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInStanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & TwitterChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionMatt Abrahams introduces the episode, a collaboration with the Fixable podcast hosted by Frances Frei and Anne Morriss.(00:04:58) Mission of Spontaneous Speaking Matt discusses his focus on helping people communicate more effectively in unplanned situations.(00:07:10) Audience Centered Communication The importance of focusing on the audience to reduce anxiety and improve communication.(00:09:51) Connection Over Perfection Prioritizing connection over perfection in communication.(00:11:00) Benefits of Effective Communication The benefits of improving spontaneous speaking skills.(00:12:17) Building a Communication Infrastructure An outline of helping organizations create supportive communication environments.(00:13:33) Six Steps to Better Communication A six-step process to improve spontaneous communication, covering mindset and messaging.(00:16:55) Managing Communication Anxiety Strategies for managing anxiety in high-stakes communication situations.(00:21:00) Handling Blanking Out How to handle and recover from blanking out during a speech or presentation.(00:25:21) Real-Life Experience A recent experience of underestimating time during a keynote and how the situation was managed.(00:27:44) The Value of Preparation The importance of preparation in both spontaneous and planned communication.(00:28:43) AMP and Building ConfidenceThree immediate strategies for reducing anxiety right before speaking.(00:31:53) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Whether winning over a hiring manager or winning new business, career success often hinges on how we communicate. That's why Andrew Seaman is on a mission to help people find the words that work — to get work.Seaman is the senior managing editor for jobs and career development at LinkedIn, and as the creator and host of the Get Hired podcast and newsletter, he helps millions hone communication skills to land the jobs they want. According to him, getting opportunities isn't just about experience or connections, but how we frame and present our personal and professional narratives. With a standard resume, he says, “You're making them connect the dots. And people are not good at that.” Instead, he recommends crafting a story that explains where you've been, where you are, and where you hope to go. “Connect the dots for them,” he says, “so they're not viewing you as a person who has bounced around. They're thinking, this person has had a cohesive career.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Seaman and host Matt Abrahams explore tools for navigating the interview process, networking on and offline, and communication strategies to get hired.Episode Reference Links:Andrew Seaman: Website Andrew Seaman: LinkedIn Andrew's Podcast: Get HiredEp.118 Maximizing Your Brand: Communicating Who You Are to Help Get What You Want Website / YouTube Ep.147 Disrupt Yourself: How to Innovate Who You Are and Become Who You Can Be YouTube Ep.62 Best Of: Summer Learning Series, How Humor Can Be a Secret Weapon in Communication Website / YouTubeConnect:Email Questions & Feedback >>> thinkfast@stanford.eduEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInStanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & TwitterChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Matt Abrahams introduces guest Andrew Seaman, Senior Managing Editor for Jobs and Career Development at LinkedIn.(00:00:57) Importance of Online PresenceThe significance of maintaining an online presence and tips on optimizing LinkedIn profiles.(00:01:52) Posting on LinkedInThe frequency and type of posts on LinkedIn, balancing professional and personal content.(00:03:41) Commenting vs. PostingAdvice on adding value through comments and engaging with posts.(00:05:12) Interview PresenceThe importance of presence in interviews, sharing examples of making good and bad impressions.(00:06:59) Recovering from Bad ImpressionsThe challenges and possibilities of recovering from a poor first impression in an interview setting.(00:07:48) Interviewing from the Interviewer's PerspectiveTips for hiring managers on how to conduct effective interviews and evaluate candidates.(00:10:25) Challenging Interview QuestionsThe appropriateness and benefits of challenging candidates during interviews to assess their fit and preparedness.(00:11:44) Best Practices for IntervieweesStrategies for interviewees to prepare and effectively answer questions, using the ADD method.(00:13:58) Handling Spontaneity in InterviewsPreparing for interviews when time is limited and the importance of flexibility and adaptability.(00:17:17) Following Up After InterviewsBest practices for following up after an interview to leave a positive impression.(00:19:43) Broader Career AdviceLeveraging online communities and tools for career growth, emphasizing networking.(00:22:14) The Final Three QuestionsAndrew shares his favorite response to an interview question, a communicator he admires, and three ingredients for successful communication.(00:25:31) ConclusionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mike Maples, Jr. is a legendary early-stage startup investor and a co-founder and partner at Floodgate. He's made early bets on transformative companies like Twitter, Lyft, Twitch, Okta, Rappi, and Applied Intuition and is one of the pioneers of seed-stage investing as a category. He's been on the Forbes Midas List eight times and enjoys sharing the lessons he's learned from his years studying iconic companies. In his new book, Pattern Breakers: Why Some Start-Ups Change the Future, co-authored with Peter Ziebelman, he discusses what he's found separates startups and founders that break through and change the world from those that don't. After spending years reviewing the notes and decks from the thousands of startups he's known over the past two decades, he's uncovered three ways that breakthrough founders think and act differently. In our conversation, Mike talks about:• The three elements of breakthrough startup ideas• Why you need to both think and act differently• How to avoid the “comparison trap” and “conformity trap”• The importance of movements, storytelling, and healthy disagreeableness in startup success• How to apply pattern-breaking principles within large companies• Mike's one piece of advice for founders• Much morePre-order Mike's book here and get a second signed copy for free. Limited copies are available, so order ASAP: patternbreakers.com/lenny.—Brought to you by:• Enterpret—Transform customer feedback into product growth• Anvil—The fastest way to build software for documents• Webflow—The web experience platform—Find the transcript at: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/how-to-find-a-great-startup-idea-mike-maples-jr—Where to find Mike Maples, Jr.:• X: https://x.com/m2jr• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maples/• Substack: https://greatness.substack.com/• Website: https://www.floodgate.com/—Where to find Lenny:• Newsletter: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com• X: https://twitter.com/lennysan• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lennyrachitsky/—In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Mike's background(03:10) The inspiration behind Pattern Breakers(08:09) Uncovering startup insights(11:37) A quick summary of Pattern Breakers(13:52) Coming up with an idea(15:30) Inflections(17:09) Examples of inflections(28:10) Insights(36:58) The power of surprises(47:36) Founder-future fit(55:33) Advice for aspiring founders(56:41) Living in the future: valid opinions(55:34) Case study: Maddie Hall and Living Carbon(58:40) Identifying lighthouse customers(01:00:53) The importance of desperation in customer needs(01:03:57) Creating movements and storytelling(01:24:22) The role of disagreeableness in startups(01:34:42) Applying these principles within a company(01:40:43) Lightning round—Referenced:• Pattern Breakers: Why Some Start-Ups Change the Future: https://www.amazon.com/Pattern-Breakers-Start-Ups-Change-Future/dp/1541704355• Justin.tv: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justin.tv• Airbnb's CEO says a $40 cereal box changed the course of the multibillion-dollar company: https://fortune.com/2023/04/19/airbnb-ceo-cereal-box-investors-changed-everything-billion-dollar-company/• Brian Chesky's new playbook: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/brian-cheskys-contrarian-approach• The Unconventional Exit: How Justin Kan Sold His First Startup on eBay: https://medium.datadriveninvestor.com/the-unconventional-exit-how-justin-kan-sold-his-first-startup-on-ebay-4d705afe1354• Kyle Vogt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylevogt/• The State of Telehealth Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9035352/• The Craigslist Killers: https://www.gq.com/story/craigslist-killers• The social radar: Y Combinator's secret weapon | Jessica Livingston (co-founder of Y Combinator, author, podcast host): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/the-social-radar-jessica-livingston• Michael Seibel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwseibel/• The Airbnb Story: How Three Ordinary Guys Disrupted an Industry, Made Billions ... and Created Plenty of Controversy: https://www.amazon.com/Airbnb-Story-Ordinary-Disrupted-Controversy/dp/0544952669• Scott Cook: https://www.forbes.com/profile/scott-cook/• Chegg: https://www.chegg.com/• Aayush Phumbhra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aayush/• Osman Rashid on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/osmanrashid/• Okta: https://www.okta.com/• The Man Who Makes the Future: Wired Icon Marc Andreessen: https://www.wired.com/2012/04/ff-andreessen/• Peter Ludwig on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterwludwig/• Qasar Younis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/qasar/• Paul Allen's website: https://paulallen.com/• Louis Pasteur quote: https://www.forbes.com/quotes/6145/• What was Atrium and why did it fail? https://www.failory.com/cemetery/atrium• Patrick Collison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickcollison/• Drew Houston on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewhouston/• William Gibson's quote: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/681-the-future-is-already-here-it-s-just-not-evenly• Maddie Hall on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maddie-hall-76293135/• Living Carbon: https://www.livingcarbon.com• Zenefits (now Trinet): https://connect.trinet.com/• Sam Altman on X: https://x.com/sama• Steve Wozniak on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wozniaksteve/• Horsley Bridge Partners: https://www.horsleybridge.com/• David Swensen: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_F._Swensen• Judith Elsea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judithelsea/• 7 Powers: The Foundations of Business Strategy: https://www.amazon.com/7-Powers-Foundations-Business-Strategy/dp/0998116319• Business strategy with Hamilton Helmer (author of 7 Powers): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/business-strategy-with-hamilton-helmer• Lyft's Focus on Community and the Story Behind the Pink Mustache: https://techcrunch.com/2012/09/17/lyfts-focus-on-community-and-the-story-behind-the-pink-mustache/• Logan Green on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/logangreen/• John Zimmer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnzimmer11/• Storytelling with Nancy Duarte: How to craft compelling presentations and tell a story that sticks: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/storytelling-with-nancy-duarte-how• Steve Jobs Introducing the iPhone at MacWorld 2007: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7qPAY9JqE4• Jonathan Livingston Seagull: https://www.amazon.com/Jonathan-Livingston-Seagull-Richard-Bach/dp/0743278909• The paths to power: How to grow your influence and advance your career | Jeffrey Pfeffer (author of 7 Rules of Power, professor at Stanford GSB): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/the-paths-to-power-jeffrey-pfeffer• Robin Roberts on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-roberts-393a934b/• Skunkworks: https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/who-we-are/business-areas/aeronautics/skunkworks.html• Vision, conviction, and hype: How to build 0 to 1 inside a company | Mihika Kapoor (Product at Figma): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/vision-conviction-hype-mihika-kapoor• Hard-won lessons building 0 to 1 inside Atlassian | Tanguy Crusson (Head of Jira Product Discovery): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/building-0-to-1-inside-atlassian-tanguy-crusson• Figma: https://www.figma.com/• Atlassian: https://www.atlassian.com/• Vinod Khosla: https://www.khoslaventures.com/team/vinod-khosla/• Top Five Regrets of the Dying: A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing: https://www.amazon.com/Top-Five-Regrets-Dying-Transformed-ebook/dp/B07KNRLY1L• Chase, Chance, and Creativity: The Lucky Art of Novelty: https://www.amazon.com/Chase-Chance-Creativity-Lucky-Novelty/dp/0262511355• Clay Christensen's books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Clayton-M.-Christensen/author/B000APPD3Y• Resonate: Present Visual Stories That Transform: https://www.amazon.com/Resonate-Present-Stories-Transform-Audiences/dp/0470632011• Ferrari on Prime: https://www.amazon.com/Ferrari-Adam-Driver/dp/B0CNDBN672• Montblanc fountain pens: https://www.montblanc.com/en-us—Production and marketing by https://penname.co/. For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email podcast@lennyrachitsky.com.—Lenny may be an investor in the companies discussed. Get full access to Lenny's Newsletter at www.lennysnewsletter.com/subscribe

Ami Vora is the Chief Product Officer of Faire, which connects independent retailers and brands around the world. Before Faire, Ami spent over 15 years at Meta, including as VP of Product and Design for WhatsApp (2B+ users), VP of Product for Facebook's ads system (now $130B of annual revenue), and director at Instagram. She began her career working on developer tools at Microsoft. In our conversation, we discuss:• Why execution eats strategy for breakfast• Using metaphor to rally teams around one shared goal• How to build cross-functional relationships• “Dinosaur brain,” “Toddler soccer,” and the “hill climbing” metaphors• A tactic for handling disagreement• Tips for working well with product-minded founders as a product leader• The story of Ami's incredible 15-year journey from temp to VP at Meta• Much more—Brought to you by:• Sidebar—Accelerate your career by surrounding yourself with extraordinary peers.• Anvil—The fastest way to build software for documents.• User Testing—Human understanding. Human experiences.—Find the transcript at: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/authenticity-and-curiosity-ami-vora—Where to find Ami Vora:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amvora/• Substack: https://amivora.substack.com/—Where to find Lenny:• Newsletter: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com• X: https://twitter.com/lennysan• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lennyrachitsky/—In this episode, we cover:(00:00) Ami's background(02:00) The myth of perfection in success(07:55) Emotionally connecting with the job(09:55) Embracing curiosity in moments of challenge(13:16) Thinking in feedback loops(17:17) The “dinosaur brain” metaphor in product reviews(20:20) Strategies for conducting effective product reviews(26:33) Using metaphors and imagery to communicate your vision(29:35) The power of having a shared narrative(31:55) WhatsApp: an example of metaphor in action(34:44) Emulating people that inspire you(36:19) WhatsApp video calling(37:35) Why execution is greater than strategy(41:36) Time allotment for strategy vs. execution(45:10) How to become a better strategic thinker(47:59) The intricacies of implementing feedback(51:53) Being a female leader in tech(55:13) Advice for young women in tech(56:07) Setting goals and aligning incentives(01:01:40) Acknowledging hard truths(01:05:46) Lessons from transitioning to Faire(01:08:40) The importance of a good CPO/CEO relationship(01:11:17) Vetting heads of product and maintaining customer focus(01:12:40) How Ami went from intern to leading major products at Meta(01:14:53) The one thing you should do to be successful in product(01:17:25) Lightning round—Referenced:• Faire: https://www.faire.com/• Making Meta | Andrew “Boz” Bosworth (CTO): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/making-meta-andrew-boz-bosworth-cto•  Community Wisdom: AMA with Dan Hockenmaier + Facilitating a roadmap session, structuring product teams, navigating an acquisition, companies not needing PMs anymore, and much more: https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/making-meta-andrew-boz-bosworth-cto• Developing a growth model + marketplace growth strategy | Dan Hockenmaier (Faire, Thumbtack, Reforge): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/developing-a-growth-model-marketplace• Dan Hockenmaier's website: https://www.danhock.com/• On Reviews: https://boz.com/articles/reviews• Finding a global optimum always feels like a hill climb: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/amvora_finding-a-global-optimum-always-feels-like-activity-7074776143882588161-jhyy/• Dolores Park: https://sfrecpark.org/892/Mission-Dolores-Park• Rob Goldman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robgoldman/• Execution eats strategy for breakfast, but execution without strategy leads to burnout: https://rationalpm.substack.com/p/execution-eats-strategy-for-breakfast• The goal of a “strategy” is to change our own team's behavior: https://amivora.substack.com/p/the-goal-of-a-strategy-is-to-change• The paths to power: How to grow your influence and advance your career | Jeffrey Pfeffer (author of 7 Rules of Power, professor at Stanford GSB): https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/p/the-paths-to-power-jeffrey-pfeffer• Path to Power course outline: https://jeffreypfeffer.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Pfeffer-OB377-Course-Outline-2018.pdf• Management Time: Who's Got the Monkey?: https://hbr.org/1999/11/management-time-whos-got-the-monkey• Max Rhodes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-rhodes/• Coupa Coffee: https://www.coupacafe.com/• Brandee Barker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandeedbarker/• Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand In the Sun and Be Your Own Person: https://www.amazon.com/Year-Yes-Dance-Stand-Person/dp/1476777128 • How to tell better stories | Matthew Dicks (Storyworthy): https://www.lennyspodcast.com/how-to-tell-better-stories-matthew-dicks-storyworthy/• A life of yes: Matthew Dicks at TEDxSomerville: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3TaQFcaMk4• The Office on Peacock: https://www.peacocktv.com/stream-tv/the-office• 30 Rock on Peacock: https://www.peacocktv.com/watch-online/tv/30-rock/6240863759978157112• Dall-E-2: https://openai.com/index/dall-e-2/• ChatGPT: https://chatgpt.com• Fellow kettles: https://fellowproducts.com/products/stagg-ekg-electric-pour-over-kettle• TikTok's “Roman Empire” Meme, Explained: https://www.forbes.com/sites/danidiplacido/2023/09/21/tiktoks-roman-empire-meme-explained/—Production and marketing by https://penname.co/. For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email podcast@lennyrachitsky.com.—Lenny may be an investor in the companies discussed. Get full access to Lenny's Newsletter at www.lennysnewsletter.com/subscribe

From the archive: This episode was originally recorded and published in 2021. Our interviews on Entrepreneurs On Fire are meant to be evergreen, and we do our best to confirm that all offers and URL's in these archive episodes are still relevant. Andy is Wealthfront's co-founder and CEO. He serves as chairman of the UPenn endowment investment committee and teaches technology entrepreneurship at Stanford GSB. Previously, Andy co-founded and was general partner of Benchmark Capital. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. Not every business is meant to be mission-driven. If you build a commodity product, it's hard to be mission-driven. You have to have an element of changing the world to be mission-driven. 2. You don't find the idea. They find you from your authenticity to the opportunity because you will recognize that inflection point well before someone else might. 3. Don't focus on the percentage of times that you're right. Focus on the magnitude of when you are. Get data-driven, actionable finance advise - Wealthfront Sponsor HubSpot Scale support and drive retention and revenue all in one place with HubSpot's all-new Service Hub. Visit HubSpot.com/service to learn how this all-new solution can help you deliver for your customers