In this special feed drop from The Anxious Achiever, Morra Aarons-Mele sits down with Yowei Shaw, former host of NPR's Invisibilia, to explore the personal and professional challenges that followed her unexpected layoff. In this candid conversation, Yowei opens up about how losing her job caused a profound shift in her identity and sense of self—and how she found the courage to rebuild.

Yowei shares the emotional and psychological journey she went through after the layoff, including how she navigated feelings of uncertainty, grief, and personal reinvention. Now hosting her own podcast, Proxy with Yowei Shaw, she offers valuable advice for anyone facing similar career setbacks. Whether you're dealing with a job loss or just questioning your place in the workplace, this conversation offers insights on resilience, recovery, and embracing new beginnings.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about career, identity, and the power of moving forward after setbacks.

What does it take for an idea to reach a tipping point today, and how has that changed over 20 years? In this episode of Hello Monday, best-selling author Malcolm Gladwell joins Jessi Hempel to explore how the power of influence has evolved in the digital age. In his new book, Revenge of the Tipping Point: Overstories, Superspreaders, and the Rise of Social Engineering, Malcolm reflects on the transformation of how ideas spread, from when his debutThe Tipping Point was first published in 2000 to today’s era of social media, influencers, and AI.

Malcolm explores how technology and social platforms have changed the dynamics of influence, emphasizing that you don’t need millions of followers to make a difference. He shares personal stories, including one about his brother, an elementary school principal whose impact resonated through a small, yet deeply connected community.

Plus, Malcolm offers advice for adapting to the fast-paced, ever-changing world of work, including tips for early career professionals on staying nimble in the face of rapid changes.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation on the rise of superspreaders, social engineering, and the power of influence in today’s world.

This episode was filmed live in-studio. Check out the full video version on LinkedIn Premium.

Continue the conversation with us at Hello Monday Office Hours! RSVP here to join us on the LinkedIn News page this Wednesday at 3 PM EST.

Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and burned out as the year comes to a close? You’re not alone. In this bonus episode of Hello Monday, originally recorded back in 2020, Jessi Hempel sits down with Emily and Amelia Nagoski, co-authors of Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle. They explore the root causes of burnout, the importance of emotional resilience, and how societal expectations contribute to the stress cycle. The Nagoskis discuss how burnout manifests in different groups, particularly women, and how to strike a balance between being a "human giver" and a "human being" to break free from constant exhaustion. They identify connection and community as the strongest tools against burnout. They also touch on the need for self-compassion, and how to find true purpose beyond societal pressures. Whether you're struggling with work burnout or seeking healthier emotional strategies, this episode offers valuable insights into managing stress, healing from emotional wounds, and creating a life of balance and fulfillment.

Actor, writer, and director Jesse Eisenberg sits down with Jessi Hempel to dive into his creative process, offering valuable insights on how to balance artistic passion with commercial viability. From his experiences writing and directing A Real Pain to his candid thoughts on imposter syndrome, Jesse discusses the challenges of navigating self-doubt, managing criticism, and staying true to your vision in a highly competitive industry. He shares how he approaches the business side of filmmaking, including managing costs and choosing the right projects, while staying connected to the pure joy of creation. 

With honesty and humor, Jesse reflects on the complexities of balancing external expectations, handling criticism, and finding your creative calling in a world that often demands more than just your art. This episode offers a refreshing perspective on how to stay grounded while pursuing your creative dreams. Tune in for a candid conversation that will inspire anyone looking to find balance in their creative life and career. 

For more, listen to Jessi’s conversation with Laura Linney on criticism here. 

Continue the conversation with us at Hello Monday Office Hours! RSVP here to join us on the LinkedIn News page this Wednesday at 3 PM EST.

Money: it’s one of the most powerful forces in our lives, and yet it’s also one of the most complicated to navigate. In today’s episode, Jessi sits down with Aja Evans, financial expert and author of the new book Feel Good Finance, to discuss how to take control of your finances without guilt or stress. Together they explore how our money habits are shaped by past experiences and how understanding your financial history is key to making healthier decisions. Aja shares practical strategies for managing common issues like overspending, fear of investing, and balancing financial support for aging parents. Aja also highlights the emotional side of money, explaining how the "keeping up with the Joneses" mentality can lead to overspending. In today’s social media-driven world, we often compare ourselves to others, but Aja encourages a shift in mindset to focus on what we truly need—not what everyone else has. Finally, they discuss how to navigate financial decisions with a partner, emphasizing the importance of open communication, vulnerability, and understanding each other’s financial triggers. Aja’s approach helps couples collaborate, not clash, when making money decisions.This episode is full of actionable tips to set financial boundaries, overcome overspending, and shift your mindset for financial success.

Continue the conversation with us at Hello Monday Office Hours! RSVP here to join us on the LinkedIn News page this Wednesday at 3 PM EST.

As the year winds down, many of us reflect on our work, our personal lives, and the balance (or lack thereof) between the two. In this episode of Hello Monday, Jessi Hempel talks with Brigid Schulte, the best-selling author of Overwhelmed and Over Work, about the culture of work and how it shapes our lives. Brigid’s research spans countries like Iceland, Japan, and the U.S., giving her unique insights into how different cultures approach work-life balance and productivity.Brigid shares why the pressure to love our work and work non-stop is unsustainable and harmful. As technology—especially AI—reshapes the future of work, it’s time to reassess how we define success and productivity. Is more work really better work? Together, Jessi and Brigid discuss how small changes in our work culture can lead to less stress, greater fulfillment, and healthier work-life balance. They also explore the importance of creating work cultures that prioritize well-being alongside productivity.In this episode, you’ll learn how to challenge outdated work norms and how to design a more sustainable future for work, life, and everything in between.

Plus, hear Scott Olster discuss his recent read Nexus by Yuval Noah Harari.

In this episode of Hello Monday, Jessi Hempel sits down with Max Bennett, AI entrepreneur and author of A Brief History of Intelligence. Max takes us on a fascinating journey through evolution of intelligence, from the first brain 600 million years ago to the artificial intelligence of today. Drawing from his experience in building AI for marketers and now as the founder of Alby—an AI startup—Max offers a unique perspective on how we think about and design intelligent systems.

Max’s insights are especially timely, given the growing ethical debates around AI’s role in our lives. This episode dives into some of the most important questions we face as AI becomes increasingly embedded in our personal and professional lives. As AI continues to automate more jobs and shape new industries, Max also offers a thought-provoking perspective on how we might continue to find purpose in a world where machines take over more tasks. This conversation is essential listening for anyone interested in the future of AI, ethics, and the impact of automation on society.

Continue the conversation with us at Hello Monday Office Hours! RSVP here to join us on the LinkedIn News page this Wednesday at 3 PM EST.

This month marks two years since OpenAI launched its first free version of ChatGPT to the general public. In these two years, generative AI has become a transformative force across industries. 

Last year, we asked listeners how they were using AI at work and in life. You answered, and Jessi sat down with LinkedIn Technology Editor, Tanya Dua to share these listener experiences and to break down how ChatGPT is changing the way we work.

Today, we bring you that 2023 episode, plus a few updates from Jessi and Tanya. Together they examine what's changed, what's improved, and what challenges remain.examine what’s changed, what's improved, and what challenges remain. From storytelling and coding to philosophical debates, listeners have pushed ChatGPT to its limits and seen firsthand its potential—and its pitfalls. Tanya shares her thoughts on how tools like ChatGPT 4.0 have advanced, with improved accuracy and the ability to pick up on nuanced cues. Jessi and Tanya discuss how professionals across fields are using generative AI in creative, time-saving ways—sometimes “on the sly”—and reflect on how AI is changing day-to-day tasks, especially through fine-tuned models designed for specific applications like customer service and healthcare.

Whether you’re an early adopter or just curious about AI, this episode offers an insightful look into how ChatGPT has transformed our understanding of work, creativity, and collaboration.

Continue the conversation with us at Hello Monday Office Hours! RSVP here to join us on the LinkedIn News page this Wednesday at 3 PM EST.

What makes a brand memorable? Why do some brands feel like home, while others remain simply functional? In this episode of Hello Monday, Jessi Hempel speaks with industry experts Steven Wolfe Pereira and Marisa Thalberg, who share insights from years of leadership in branding and marketing. They break down the essentials of brand-building, explaining why it's crucial not only for businesses but also for personal career growth.

Steven and Marisa reveal why defining a brand’s purpose and promise is key to making it memorable and effective, offering actionable strategies for crafting a brand that stands out in any field. Together, they explore the “four P’s” of branding—Product, Pricing, Place, and Promotion—and discuss how each element contributes to a powerful brand identity. Whether you're an entrepreneur aiming to build your business or an individual navigating your personal career journey, this episode provides an essential guide to branding as a tool for lasting impact.

Continue the conversation with us at Hello Monday Office Hours! RSVP here to join us on the LinkedIn News page this Wednesday at 3 PM EST.

What does it take to reinvent yourself after decades of success? Jessi Hempel sits down with the multi-talented Anna Kendrick, whose journey from acclaimed actor to first-time director offers invaluable insights for anyone considering a bold career pivot.

Anna shares the story behind her directorial debut with Netflix’s Woman of the Hour, a true-crime drama. Far removed from the lighthearted films that Anna is known for, Woman of the Hour chronicles the stranger-than-fiction story of a 1970s aspiring actor and a serial killer whose lives collide when they're cast on The Dating Game.

Together, Jessi and Anna dive deep into the courage it takes to step out of your comfort zone, even when the world knows you for one thing, and how to follow your intuition when making creative decisions. From her Tony-nominated start on Broadway at age 12 to her directorial debut, Anna reveals the inner workings of her creative process and her thoughts on failure, intuition, imposter syndrome, and the terrifying yet necessary act of leaping into the unknown. This episode offers not just a behind-the-scenes look at Anna's latest project but also inspiration for anyone seeking to reinvent their own career.

Watch Woman of the Hour on Netflix now, and tune in to hear how Anna Kendrick is embracing the next chapter of her career.

Continue the conversation with us at Hello Monday Office Hours! RSVP here to join us on the LinkedIn News page this Wednesday at 3 PM EST.

In this special episode of Hello Monday, recorded live onstage at the Lesbians Who Tech Summit in New York City, Jessi sits down with Neil Blumenthal, co-founder and co-CEO of Warby Parker. As a pioneer of purpose-driven businesses, Neil shares invaluable insights on building a company that doesn’t just stand out in the marketplace but also stands for something meaningful. From Warby Parker’s innovative buy-a-pair-give-a-pair model to cultivating a strong company culture that attracts top talent, Neil reveals the steps to creating a brand with social impact at its core.

Jessi and Neil dive into the early days of Warby Parker, recounting how a group of business school students identified a problem and built a solution that disrupted the eyewear industry. Neil also offers advice for founders on how to integrate purpose into their business strategy, be prepared to stand by their values during tough times, and stand out in today’s startup landscape.

Continue the conversation with us at Hello Monday Office Hours! RSVP here to join us on the LinkedIn News page this Wednesday at 3 PM EST.