SPOS #923 – Andrew McAfee On Embracing The Geek Way

Welcome to episode #928 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #928. Let’s explore what it means to master something. Dr. Michael Gervais is a world-renowned high-performance psychologist whose work has revolutionized the way we think about fear, potential, and personal growth. Mike, whose career spans working with top athletes and Fortune 100 leaders, delves into the critical barriers that impede our success and satisfaction in life — chief among them, the Fear Of Other People's Opinions (aka FOPO). His new book, The First Rule of Mastery - Stop Worrying about What People Think of You, dives deep into overcoming this pervasive fear. Mike articulates how FOPO manifests in nearly all aspects of our lives, constricting our actions and dampening our authenticity. From the sports field to the boardroom, the consequences of surrendering to FOPO are universally detrimental, leading us to play it safe and small. During our conversation, Mike shares his personal journey of curiosity, which has fueled his passion for understanding the human mind and its vast capabilities. He emphasizes that the path to mastery isn't just about achieving external success but about engaging in a lifelong process of learning, artistic expression, and embracing the moment. This approach not only enhances personal fulfillment but also drives us to contribute meaningfully to the world around us. We discuss the broader implications of living under the shadow of FOPO in today’s society, where insularity and tribalism often dominate. He highlights the importance of embracing a balanced perspective and the dual recognition of our significance to others while acknowledging our smallness in the grand scheme of things. As someone who splits his time between innovative projects at the Performance Science Institute at USC and his podcast Finding Mastery, Mike embodies the balance between action and reflection, making him an ideal guide for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and the world through the lens of mastery. Whether you're a leader, educator, or simply someone pursuing personal growth, this conversation will empower you to lead a high-performance life by mastering the art of tuning out the noise and focusing on what truly matters. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:03:16. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Dr. Michael Gervais. The First Rule of Mastery - Stop Worrying about What People Think of You. Finding Mastery Podcast. Finding Mastery. Follow Mike on LinkedIn. Follow Mike on X. Follow Mike on Instagram. Follow Mike on YouTube. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways Fear of other people's opinions (FOPO) can be a major obstacle to personal growth and potential. Setting high standards for oneself is more effective than having expectations. Context and culture play a crucial role in shaping our actions and behaviors. The path to mastery involves a deep commitment to learning, artistic expression, and a love affair with the unfolding moment. Maintaining authenticity and staying true to oneself can be challenging in the face of external expectations and pressures.  The voice inside our heads can either be a protector or a propeller, and it's important to be aware of its influence on our thoughts and actions. Success is a subjective concept that varies from person to person and is influenced by cultural and individual values. The current state of society is characterized by increasing insularity, tribalism, and a focus on superficial metrics of success. To live a good life, it is important to prioritize experiences, relationships, and personal growth over external achievements. Investing in mental skills training, such as mindfulness, journaling, and conversations with wise individuals, can help cultivate a positive mindset and navigate challenges. The path to mastery involves embracing duality, recognizing our significance in the lives of others while also acknowledging our smallness in the grand scheme of things. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background. 08:24 - Setting High Standards for Personal Growth. 30:34 - Navigating Authenticity in the Face of External Expectations. 39:33 - The importance of awareness. 48:30 - The current state of society. 55:24 - Unleashing human potential.

Welcome to episode #927 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #927. Let’s get much more curious in our work (and in our daily lives) to help bring this world closer together. Scott Shigeoka has spent his time exploring the power of curiosity. This has not only won him accolades but also transformed how we think about bridging divides in our increasingly complex world. His new book, Seek - How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World, offers a look into curiosity as a force for positive change, earning praise from thinkers like Malcolm Gladwell and Adam Grant, and recognition as an Amazon Best Book of 2023. Scott’s unique perspective is shaped by a diverse background — from his roots in Hawaii to teaching groundbreaking courses at the University of Texas at Austin, and speaking for brands like Google and Pixar. His journey through curiosity began as a personal quest and has evolved into a universal call to action, underscored by his work at UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center. Our conversation also touches on the impact of the pandemic on curiosity, a time when questions and the search for understanding became more critical than ever. Scott discusses how embracing curiosity can empower us to navigate through crises with resilience and hope. He also delves into the challenges of cancel culture and scrutiny, which can stifle curiosity. Beyond individual growth, Scott explores how institutions like universities can serve as incubators for curiosity, promoting an environment where challenging discussions can occur without fear. The role of emotions in fueling or hindering curiosity emerges as a key theme, with Scott advocating for emotional intelligence as a complement to intellectual inquiry. As Scott splits his time between the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area and the tranquil Mojave Desert, he embodies the balance between action and reflection, making him an ideal guide for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the world through the lens of curiosity. Whether you're a leader, educator, or simply someone looking to foster more meaningful connections, this conversation promises to offer valuable insights into making curiosity a dynamic part of your everyday life. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:00:26. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Scott Shigeoka. Seek - How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World. Greater Good Science Center. Follow Scott on Instagram. Follow Scott on X. Follow Scott on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways Hope and optimism are essential for fostering curiosity and a vision for the future. Cancel culture and the fear of scrutiny can hinder curiosity and prevent the exploration of different perspectives. Power dynamics play a role in curiosity, with those in positions of power needing to be curious about the perspectives of others. Emotions can impact curiosity, and it is important to create spaces where different perspectives can be shared without fear of judgment. College campuses can serve as laboratories for fostering curiosity and bridging differences. Curiosity has the power to change perspectives and create positive relationships. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 02:15 - The Science of Curiosity 04:54 - The Catalyst for Writing the Book 07:49 - Curiosity During the Pandemic 12:51 - The Importance of Curiosity in Healing 18:36 - The Role of Curiosity in Bridging Differences 19:13 - The Power of Asking Questions 21:31 - The Dive Model 28:38 - Scaling Curiosity and Bridging Differences 43:17 - The Importance of Hope and Optimism 44:03 - The Fear of Scrutiny and Cancel Culture 45:00 - The Impact of Cancel Culture on Curiosity 46:47 - The Role of Power in Curiosity 49:17 - The Impact of Emotions on Curiosity 52:41 - Curiosity and Polarization on College Campuses 55:23 - Creating Spaces for Curiosity on College Campuses 59:04 - The Power of Curiosity to Change Perspectives

Welcome to episode #926 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #926. A titan of pop culture commentary and a guiding voice in the realm of fandom is the best way to describe Joanna Robinson. With her profound insights into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and a finger firmly on the pulse of the entertainment industry, Joanna's expertise is unparalleled. Her recent book, co-authored with Dave Gonzales and Gavin Edwards, MCU - The Reign of Marvel Studios, offers a deep dive into the phenomenon that has reshaped global cinema... and turned nerds into the cool kids. Joanna's journey from a senior writer at Vanity Fair to becoming the "Queen of Game of Thrones," as dubbed by SyFy, showcases her unique ability to dissect and discuss complex cultural narratives, making her a beloved figure among fans and critics alike. Her transition to The Ringer, where she appears on shows like The Ringer-Verse and Trial By Content, further solidifies her status as a cultural critic par excellence. I am a comic book collector and lover of all things pop culture. This has not only become big business but a smart industry for all professionals to spend some time thinking about. Our conversation spans the intricate web of strategic decisions that led to the MCU's unprecedented success. From Marvel's acquisition by Disney to the delicate balance of interconnected storytelling and standalone tales, Joanna sheds light on the elements that keep audiences hooked. She also explores the MCU's cultural impact, particularly post-9/11, where a surge in superhero popularity reflected a collective yearning for escapism and heroism. Joanna points out the potential for content fatigue as Marvel's expansive universe grows ever larger across movies, TV shows, and streaming platforms. Beyond the MCU, Joanna and I delve into the broader comic book industry, contrasting Marvel's success with DC's franchise-building struggles and discussing the power of nostalgia in reigniting interest in iconic characters. Joanna emphasizes the untapped potential within Marvel's vast catalog, hinting at exciting directions the studio could explore in the future. MCU - The Reign of Marvel Studios is more than just a recounting of Marvel's rise to dominance - it's an invitation to understand the strategic, cultural, and creative forces behind one of the most influential entities in modern entertainment. Joanna's contribution, alongside her co-authors, offers invaluable insights for fans, aspiring creators, and industry observers alike. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 59:46. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Joanna Robinson. MCU - The Reign of Marvel Studios. Joanna’s amazing podcasts. Follow Joanna on X. Follow Joanna on Instagram. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways The success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe is a result of strategic decisions made by Marvel and Disney, including the acquisition of Marvel by Disney and the interconnected storytelling approach. The cultural shift towards superheroes can be attributed to a desire for escapism and heroism, particularly in the aftermath of 9/11. Marvel faces the challenge of content fatigue as it expands its universe across movies, TV shows, and streaming platforms. DC has faced challenges in building successful franchises, while Marvel has excelled in creating interconnected storylines. Nostalgia plays a significant role in the success of superhero movies, as audiences connect with iconic characters and stories from their childhood. There are untapped potential assets in the Marvel catalog that could be explored in future projects. Comic books offer a diverse range of storytelling beyond superheroes and can be a gateway to discovering new genres and perspectives. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 01:07 - The Love for Comic Books 03:13 - The Rise of the Marvel Cinematic Universe 06:12 - The Cultural Shift towards Superheroes 08:57 - The Acquisition of Marvel by Disney 11:25 - The Marvel Studios Inception Story 15:06 - The Challenge of Licensing Characters 19:23 - The Marvel Cinematic Universe Expansion 23:08 - The Challenge of Content Fatigue 28:28 - The Need for Change in Marvel's Strategy 30:33 - The Difficulty of Replicating Kevin Feige 36:27 - The Haunting History of Marvel's Business Model 38:08 - The Potential of Secret Wars 39:50 - Serialized Movies vs. TV Shows 45:21 - DC's Struggles with Franchise Building 50:30 - The Power and Pull of Nostalgia 54:33 - Unused Assets in the Marvel Catalog 55:51 - Changing Perspectives on Comic Books

Welcome to episode #925 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #925. The transformative impact of artificial intelligence on business and society is going to be a technological shift unlike anything we have ever experienced. Russ Neuman, a distinguished scholar in new media and digital education, is currently a Professor of Media Technology at New York University, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. With a storied career that spans from the University of Michigan to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, Russ has been at the forefront of understanding and shaping the digital landscape. Russ' recent book, Evolutionary Intelligence - How Technology Will Make Us Smarter, delves into the complex relationship between humanity and artificial intelligence (a topic that is near and dear to my heart). How can we better navigate the myriad perspectives on AI, from its potential to disrupt employment and amplify polarization to its capacity for enhancing human decision-making and fostering societal advancement. In Evolutionary Intelligence, Russ offers a refreshing counter-narrative to the doom-laden discourse surrounding AI. Russ argues that, rather than fearing the emergence of AI, we should embrace its potential to augment human capabilities and address the cognitive limitations that have bounded humanity since its hunter-gatherer days. By integrating AI into our daily lives — from laptops to headsets — Russ envisions a future where computational intelligence complements human judgment, empowering individuals to adapt to rapidly changing environments. As we delve into Russ's latest book and his extensive research on media technology's impact on society, we have a challenging and thought-provoking discussion that might upend your preconceived notions about AI and offers hope for a smarter, more collaborative future. In an era where the buzz around artificial intelligence swings dramatically between utopian promises and dystopian warnings, Russ stands out with a refreshingly balanced perspective. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 53:59. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Russ Neuman. Evolutionary Intelligence - How Technology Will Make Us Smarter. Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development - NYU. Follow Russ on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways AI elicits diverse and conflicting perspectives, ranging from doomsday scenarios to optimistic possibilities. Unemployment due to AI may be a gradual transition, and the impact on social unrest may be mitigated by the creation of new jobs. AI has the potential to amplify polarization and hate speech, but efforts are being made to identify and filter such content. The alignment problem in AI raises questions about control and the ability to ensure that AI systems align with human values. The future of work will involve collaboration between humans and AI, with AI augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing them. The redefinition of intelligence and the exploration of new models of decision-making are key to the future of AI. Mistakes and challenges are expected in the development of AI, but the hope is that we will learn from them and ultimately get it right. The impact of media technology on society is profound, influencing various aspects of our lives, including politics, culture, and communication. Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in media, enabling personalized content recommendations, automated content creation, and data analysis. The future of media technology holds exciting possibilities, such as immersive experiences, enhanced personalization, and advancements in AI-driven content creation. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Diametrically Opposed Perspectives on AI 03:12 - Unemployment and Polarization 07:37 - Regulation and Openness in AI 08:05 - Concerns and Warnings from AI Creators 16:10 - Concerns and Optimism about AI 22:07 - Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and Evolutionary Intelligence 25:31 - The Contentious Nature of AGI 28:34 - The Alignment Problem and Control 34:30 - The Role of AI in Work and Professions 43:52 - The Future of Work and Redefining Intelligence 46:50 - Concerns about AI and the Future 51:12 - Hope and Making Our Own Rules 10:00 - The Evolution of Media Technology 20:00 - The Impact of Media Technology on Society 30:00 - The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Media 40:00 - The Future of Media Technology

Welcome to episode #924 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #924. In her new book, Optimal Illusions - The False Promise of Optimization, Coco Krumme embarks on a compelling journey to unravel the influence of optimization in our society. Coco's diverse pursuits - from running a craft distillery on a rural island to making sculptures and flying a small airplane - give her analysis a unique perspective (far removed from the standard academic fare on the subject). With that, she is an applied mathematician with an impressive background, including a Ph.D. from MIT and significant experience in academia and tech. Optimization, a principle initially rooted in mathematical theory, has dramatically reshaped our world. It dictates everything from the efficiency of airline schedules to the algorithmic matches on dating sites to how we figure out our best days. Optimal Illusions is a fascinating read, as Coco explores the history of optimization, highlighting its journey from America's founding principles to its application by oil tycoons, wildlife ecologists, Silicon Valley technocrats, lifestyle gurus, and beyond. This exploration reveals a complexity where the quest for efficiency - while yielding undeniable benefits - has also led to significant trade-offs, compromising resilience, limiting options, and narrowing perspectives. Coco's work in scientific computation provides her with an intimate understanding of the pitfalls of optimization's reach. She argues that while optimization may offer short-term gains in efficiency, it ultimately fosters a society that is less adaptable and more homogenous. The book challenges readers to consider the hidden costs of optimization - from the erosion of human creativity and flexibility to the potential for creating systems that are fragile and prone to failure. For anyone intrigued by the intersection of technology, society, and human behavior, this episode is for you. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 46:16. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Coco Krumme. Optimal Illusions - The False Promise of Optimization. Follow Coco on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: 00:00 - The Definition of Optimization 04:50 - The Negative Perception of Optimization 06:18 - Losses Caused by Optimization 10:05 - Figuring Things Out for Oneself 16:18 - Optimization Pre-Pandemic and Post-Pandemic 23:56 - Balancing Discipline and Optimization 26:48 - The Opposite of Optimization 28:50 - Teaching Kids about Optimization 36:08 - The Impact of Artificial Intelligence 45:00 - The Potential of AI and the Skepticism 55:35 - The Power of Optimal Illusions 56:35 - The Perito Moreno Glacier Experience

Welcome to episode #923 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #923. He’s a hugely respected thought leader and practitioner at the intersection of technology and business. Andrew McAfee offers a compelling exploration of The Geek Way in his latest book, which redefines our approach to innovation and leadership. As a Principal Research Scientist at the MIT Sloan School of Management and the co-founder of MIT’s Initiative on the Digital Economy, Andy has been at the forefront of how technological progress reshapes our world. Andy unpacks the essence of The Geek Way, revealing it as more than just a cultural shift. It's a transformative approach to achieving extraordinary results across industries. The book, characterized by an unwavering commitment to science, speed, ownership, and openness, emerges not only as a pathway to success but as a better model for realizing company goals and fostering innovation. As geek culture transitions from the fringes to the mainstream (look no further than Marvel movies), admired for its dedication to evidence-based decision-making and problem-solving, Andy highlights the profound impact of this mindset on business practices and societal progress. One of the most compelling aspects of Andy’s work is the application of The Geek Way to the realm of artificial intelligence. In an era where AI's potential to revolutionize industries is often met with equal parts enthusiasm and apprehension, Andy provides a balanced perspective. He acknowledges the transformative power of AI as a tool for economic progress while addressing the societal implications of job displacement, advocating for iterative learning and adaptation as keys to harnessing AI's benefits. His previous books include More From Less, Machine. Platform. Crowd, The Second Machine Age (with Erik Brynjolfsson - which I adored), Race Against The Machine and Enterprise 2.0. For leaders, innovators, and anyone curious about the intersection of technology and business, this podcast and Andy’s insights are indispensable. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:04:06. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Andrew McAfee. The Geek Way. Second Machine Age. Race Against The Machine. More From Less. Machine. Platform. Crowd. Enterprise 2.0. MIT’s Initiative on the Digital Economy. MIT Sloan School of Management. Follow Andrew on X. Follow Andrew on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways: Geek culture has evolved from being stigmatized to being admired and accepted. The Geek Way is characterized by norms such as science, speed, ownership, and openness. The Geek Way can lead to better outcomes for companies and is more effective in achieving goals. Leadership plays a crucial role in driving the adoption of the Geek Way and overcoming challenges.  Visionary leaders are not essential for the 'geek way' to thrive in various industries. Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool that can accelerate economic progress. Concerns about job displacement and societal implications of AI. Letting go of personal hangups is crucial for embracing new opportunities and growth. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Geek Culture 03:34 - The Evolution of Geek and Geek Culture 09:44 - The Geek Way and Business Geeks 14:11 - The Geek Way and Big Tech 19:11 - The Geek Way and the Post-Pandemic Workforce 25:34 - The Geek Way and Technology Impact 30:53 - Geek Leaders and Their Characteristics 36:55 - The Geek Way in Other Industries 45:21 - The Heart of Science 46:09 - Geek Way in Solving Wicked Problems 47:38 - Geek Way in Prosaic Industries 47:46 - Artificial Intelligence and its Impact 53:27 - Concerns and Optimism about Artificial Intelligence 56:23 - The Role of Critical and Emergent Thinking 59:48 - Letting Go of Hangups

Welcome to episode #922 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #922. When work changes, we look to people like John Winsor. John is a truly visionary leader and a driving force behind the open talent movement. As an entrepreneur, thought leader, and global authority on the future of work, open talent and remote work. John's contributions have significantly shaped our understanding and approach to modern employment paradigms. John's role as executive-in-residence at Harvard Business School's Laboratory for Innovation Science (LISH) underscores his commitment to exploring the cutting-edge intersections of AI, workforce transformation strategies, and the open talent ecosystem. Through his company, Open Assembly, John has cultivated a content-rich community and strategic advisory services that empower organizations, individuals, and platforms to co-create the future of work together. A pioneer in the open talent and innovation industry, John has spearheaded a global coalition to establish The Center for the Transformation of Work. This ambitious initiative aims to redefine work for a billion people by 2025, showcasing John's dedication to creating more accessible and equitable work opportunities worldwide. John's journey from founding the groundbreaking open advertising agency, Victors & Spoils, to his pivotal roles at Havas and Crispin, Porter + Bogusky (where we first met), illustrates a career marked by innovation and disruption. His expertise in co-creation and open strategy (like using user generated content and influencers long before everybody else) has not only transformed the advertising world, but also provided a blueprint for organizational success in the digital age. In his latest book, Open Talent - Leveraging the Global Workforce to Solve Your Biggest Challenges, John brings his decades of insights into the open talent model for all of us to discover. The book challenges traditional employment models and offers a radical roadmap for leveraging the global crowd. John is a prolific author, including books like Baked In, Flipped, Spark and Beyond The Brand. In this episode, John delves into the essence of open talent, examining its potential to reshape the way we think about work, the gig economy, and the critical role of culture and continuous learning within this new paradigm. He emphasizes the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset and the transformative power of networks in navigating the open talent landscape. From the impact of generative AI to addressing concerns about economic volatility, John's insights provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities inherent in the shift towards task-based work. He also highlights the significance of community and team-building in an open talent framework. John's contributions to the discourse on the future of work offer an inspiring and pragmatic vision for embracing open talent. If you’re seeking to innovate, adapt, and thrive in business today, you’ve come to the right place. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:00:25. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with John Winsor. Open Talent - Leveraging the Global Workforce to Solve Your Biggest Challenges. Baked In. Flipped. Spark. Beyond The Brand. Harvard Business School. Open Assembly. Follow John on Facebook. Follow John on Instagram. Follow John on X. Follow John on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways: The future of work is shifting towards an open talent model, where individuals have the freedom to work on specific tasks and projects rather than being tied to traditional roles. Companies need to adapt to this new model by rethinking their organizational structures, embracing remote work, and creating platforms that connect talent with opportunities. Continuous learning and upskilling are crucial in an open talent world, as individuals need to stay relevant and adaptable to changing demands. Culture and branding remain important, but they should be focused on attracting and retaining talent based on the value and opportunities the organization provides.  Platforms play a crucial role in connecting skilled individuals with opportunities in the open talent market. Generative AI has the potential to significantly impact the open talent landscape, enabling faster and more efficient task completion. Concerns about economic collapse and commoditization arise in the open talent market. Team building and community remain important in an open talent framework, fostering collaboration and connection. Work should be seen as an aspect of life, and individuals should derive their self-worth and identity from a broader range of experiences and relationships. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 01:20 - Controversial Perspective on Open Talent 03:02 - The Changing Landscape of Work 04:26 - The Challenges for Business Leaders 10:26 - The Impact of the Gig Economy 11:46 - The Debate on Employee Benefits 13:08 - Task-Oriented Approach vs. Role-Focused Approach 14:40 - The Importance of Continuous Learning 17:21 - The Evolution of the Freelance Economy 19:35 - The Need to Rethink Organizational Structures 21:51 - The Role of Culture in an Open Talent World 26:16 - Preparing Individuals for an Open Talent World 30:08 - The Role of Branding and Culture 36:03 - The Importance of an Entrepreneurial Mindset 38:56 - The Power of Networks and Micro-Entrepreneurship 42:27 - Transition to Open Talent 43:14 - Impact of Generative AI 44:19 - Open Talent as the Secret Sauce 45:08 - Concerns about Economic Collapse 46:16 - Global Market and Commoditization 47:39 - Team Building in an Open Talent Framework 51:18 - Work as an Aspect of Life 56:10 - Personal Experiences that Shaped Perspective

Welcome to episode #921 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #921. In a transformative era for the global workplace, Lisen Stromberg guides leaders towards creating more inclusive and innovative work cultures. As the CEO and Co-founder of PrismWork, Lisen has dedicated the latter half of her career to reshaping the way businesses approach leadership and workplace dynamics. Her latest contribution to this work is her new book, Intentional Power - The 6 Essential Leadership Skills for Triple Bottom Line Impact (co-authored with Corey Jones and JeanAnn Nichols), which serves as a compass for those navigating the complexities of modern leadership. The book emphasizes the importance of empathy, inclusivity, and strategic leadership in achieving a triple bottom line impact. It also outlines six essential leadership skills crucial for navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by the future of work. From the impact of AI on various professions to the rejection of traditional educational paths, Lisen and her co-authors explore the multifaceted nature of leadership in the 21st century. Lisen's journey from a successful career in marketing to a leader in culture innovation and leadership transformation is marked by a critical insight: The work environment matters as much as the work itself. This realization propelled her towards establishing PrismWork, where she and her team have been instrumental in fostering workplaces that not only prioritize productivity but also embrace diversity and inclusivity as core values. In this episode, Lisen (who also authored, Work Pause Thrive) breaks down the current shift in workplace culture (and what we need to do about it). She delves into the nuances of building inclusive cultures amidst the tensions of wokeism, the fragility of the economy, and the evolving nature of capitalism. With the rise of "power skills" in job descriptions and the competitive job market's demand for deep culture, Lisen's insights offer guidance for leaders striving for excellence in a rapidly changing world. She also deep-dives on the rise of women entrepreneurs and the impact of motherhood on career trajectories. By advocating for Intentional Power, she underscores the need for leaders to wield their influence with purpose and empathy, shaping a future where work is not just about profitability, but also about creating value for all stakeholders. Lisen's mission is clear: To inspire leaders to use their power intentionally for the collective good. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 56:35. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Lisen Stromberg. Intentional Power - The 6 Essential Leadership Skills for Triple Bottom Line Impact. Work Pause Thrive. PrismWork. Follow Lisen on LinkedIn. Follow Lisen on Instagram. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways: The meaning of work and workplace culture have dramatically changed, driven by a new generation of talent with a collaborative and inclusive approach. Building inclusive cultures requires the development of power skills such as humility, empathy, accountability, resiliency, transparency, and inclusivity. The future of capitalism lies in stakeholder capitalism, which focuses on meeting the needs of a myriad of stakeholders and creating sustainable long-term solutions. Leadership is not limited to those at the top; individuals at every level have a role and responsibility in shaping workplace culture. The impact of AI on the future of work raises concerns about job displacement and the need for continuous learning and adaptation.  The “middle years” of the future of work are a critical period that requires careful navigation to avoid negative consequences. While there is a growing rejection of college education, essential careers such as plumbing, electricians, nurses, and doctors will still be in demand. Supporting humans in the future of work requires a shift towards capitalism for good, where meaningful services and support are provided to employees. Empathy is a crucial trait for leaders, and there are three types of empathy: cognitive empathy, emotional empathy, and compassion empathy. The optionality of employees and the shift in power dynamics in the workplace require a focus on ‘power with’ rather than ‘power over’. The rise of women entrepreneurs highlights the need for better support and infrastructure for freelancers and self-employed individuals. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 01:18 - The Changing Landscape of Workplace Culture 03:21 - The Shift in Identity and Meaning of Work 04:48 - The Importance of Culture in the New Way of Working 06:06 - The Challenges of Building Inclusive Cultures 07:32 - Navigating the Tensions of Wokeism and Inclusion 10:31 - The Fragility of the Economy and the Future of Capitalism 12:46 - Sustainable Culture in the Face of CEO Tenure 15:07 - Empowering Middle Management for Cultural Transformation 16:26 - The Challenge of Building Deep Culture in a Competitive Job Market 19:09 - The Rise of Power Skills in Job Descriptions 20:37 - Balancing Rigor and Performance with Humanity and Empathy 28:18 - Navigating Ageism and the Changing Workforce 30:22 - The Impact of AI on the Future of Work 39:15 - The Rejection of College and the Need for Essential Careers 40:09 - Supporting Humans in the Future of Work 42:22 - The Importance of Empathy in Leadership 43:45 - The Nuances of Empathy and the Three Types 45:47 - The Optionality of Employees and the Shift in Power 47:13 - The Shift from ‘Power Over’ to ‘Power With’ 48:10 - The Rise of Women Entrepreneurs 49:19 - The Chasm Between Entrepreneurs and Self-Employed 51:33 - Difficult Conversations and the Future of Connectivity

Welcome to episode #920 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #920. Alan Eagle is a senior executive communications expert and co-author of the recently published book, Learned Excellence - Mental Disciplines For Leading And Winning From The World’s Top Performers. The book delves into the nuances of mental toughness, the intricate balance between nature and nurture, and the pivotal role of effective communication in fostering leadership and excellence. Alan co-wrote the book with Eric Potterat. One of Eric’s many accolades is that he served for 10 years as the psychologist for the US Navy SEALs, and was responsible for the mental assessment, selection, development, maintenance and enhancement programs for the SEALs. Alan is no slouch either. He worked for over 16 years as a Managing Director at Google, where he was also the speechwriter for influential Googlers like Eric Schmidt, Jonathan Rosenberg, Marissa Mayer, and Susan Wojcicki. Alan is also the co-author of How Google Works (with Eric Schmidt and Jonathan Rosenberg) and Trillion Dollar Coach - The Leadership Playbook of Silicon Valley's Bill Campbell (also with Schmidt and Jonathan). In a world increasingly polarized and challenging to navigate, Alan addresses how individuals and organizations can stay true to their core values, even as they grow and evolve. He highlights the crucial role of maintaining these values, not just for personal integrity but also for organizational coherence and success. Alan also explores the idea of managing people in an outcome-focused environment. He advocates for a process-oriented approach, emphasizing the journey over the destination. This perspective, he argues, is not just applicable at the corporate level but resonates universally across various levels and types of organizations. Alan offers profound insights into the realms of leadership, communication, and personal development. His experiences and perspectives provide valuable lessons on resilience, the pursuit of excellence, and the art of effective communication, essential for anyone looking to excel in today's dynamic world. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 57:22. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Alan Eagle. Learned Excellence - Mental Disciplines For Leading And Winning From The World’s Top Performers. Co-author Eric Potterat. Trillion Dollar Coach - The Leadership Playbook of Silicon Valley's Bill Campbell. How Google Works. Follow Alan on LinkedIn. Follow Alan on X. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways: Mental toughness is essential for performing well under pressure, and it can be developed through practice and training. Excellence is not limited to high-stress situations. It can be achieved in everyday life. Values and identity play a crucial role in achieving excellence, both individually and within a team or organization. Leaders can create a culture of excellence by exemplifying the principles of learned excellence and fostering open communication and trust. In a polarized world, it is important to focus on shared values and create an inclusive environment that respects diverse perspectives.  Core values should be upheld even as a company grows and faces new challenges. Focusing on the process rather than just the outcome leads to better results. Process is a universal truth that can be applied at any level and in any organization. Compelling communications are about understanding what the audience is interested in. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 03:06 - The Importance of Mental Toughness 08:26 - The Difference Between High-Stress Situations and Everyday Stress 11:37 - The Role of Nature vs. Nurture in Developing Mental Toughness 14:48 - The Connection Between Excellence and Identity 18:43 - Applying the Principles of Learned Excellence in Personal Life 23:33 - Creating a Culture of Excellence in the Workplace 28:01 - The Role of Communication in Leadership and Excellence 31:46 - Leadership and Excellence in a Changing World 43:46 - Navigating Values in a Polarized World 47:36 - The Value of 'Don't Be Evil' 50:30 - Managing People in an Outcome-Focused World 53:42 - The Universal Truth of Process 57:08 - The Power of Compelling Communications

Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #919. In a world of information overload, Todd Rogers, a Professor of Public Policy at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, recently published the book, Writing for Busy Readers - Communicate More Effectively in the Real World (co-authored with Jessica Lasky-Fink), as a testament to their understanding of the nuances of better writing in our text and emoji-paced world. Todd has dedicated his career to the study of efficient communication strategies, whether it's engaging with families, students, consumers, employees, or voters. His expertise is not just academic, it is also deeply rooted in practical applications, as evidenced by his co-founding of the Analyst Institute and EveryDay Labs. These organizations reflect his commitment to using behavioral science for public good – from improving voter communications to reducing student absenteeism through better family engagement. At Harvard, Todd's course, The Science of Behavior Change, is one of the most sought-after classes, a testament to his ability to translate complex theories into actionable knowledge. His role as the faculty chair of the executive education program Behavioral Insights and Public Policy, and his leadership of the Harvard Behavioral Insights Group, further highlight his central position in the landscape of behavioral science. In Writing for Busy Readers, Todd (alongside Jessica), dives into the challenge of writing effectively in a society that is bombarded with tasks and distractions. They champion the principles of brevity and clarity, advocating for the power of concise messages in capturing and retaining the attention of busy readers. Their book is a must-read for anyone looking for the balance between being informative and being succinct. Todd discusses the importance of standout subject lines, the pitfalls of overusing adjectives and common phrases, and the relationship between writing and persuasion. Todd addresses the impact of generative AI on writing, revealing his insights on how technology can aid in the principles of effective communication. Todd and Jessica's work is not just about writing - it's about understanding and engaging with the reader's context and perspective. His insights offer a roadmap for writing in a way that resonates in a society where time is the most precious commodity. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 56:40. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Todd Rogers. Writing for Busy Readers - Communicate More Effectively in the Real World. Jessica Lasky-Fink. Harvard Kennedy School of Government. EveryDay Labs. Follow Todd on X. Follow Todd on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways: Writing for busy readers requires brevity and clarity. Consider the reader's context and perspective when crafting written communication. Skimming and scanning are common reading behaviors in a busy society. Subject lines should be unique and attention-grabbing to capture the reader's attention. Avoid overusing adjectives and replace common phrases with more concise alternatives. Effective writing is closely related to persuasion and the ability to make it easier for readers to understand and respond. Generative AI tools like chat GPT can assist in writing, but they need to be trained on the principles of effective communication. Teaching effective writing strategies in schools can help individuals communicate more effectively in various contexts. Acknowledging others' efforts and providing positive feedback can have a significant impact on their well-being. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 01:15 - The Principle of 'Less is More' 04:18 - The Impact of a Busy Society 06:32 - The Burden of an Infinite Queue 08:01 - The Importance of Being Brief 10:07 - The Evolution of Reading and Writing 12:28 - The Art of Skimming and Scanning 17:23 - The Impact of Context and Emojis 19:37 - The Renaissance of Writing 20:36 - The Paradox of Writing More 25:38 - Understanding the Reader's Context 27:41 - The Challenge of Sarcasm and Miscommunication 29:23 - The Power of Impactful Words 46:25 - The Power of Subject Lines 47:53 - The Overuse of Adjectives 50:26 - Phrases, Persuasion, and Effective Writing 52:38 - The Impact of Generative AI on Writing 55:42 - Making Writing Easier for Readers 57:16 - The Importance of Acknowledgment