If/Then podcast

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22:08

Host Francesca Amiker sits down with directors Joe and Anthony Russo, producer Angela Russo-Otstot, stars Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, and more to uncover how family was the key to building the emotional core of The Electric State . From the Russos’ own experiences growing up in a large Italian family to the film’s central relationship between Michelle and her robot brother Kid Cosmo, family relationships both on and off of the set were the key to bringing The Electric State to life. Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts . State Secrets: Inside the Making of The Electric State is produced by Netflix and Treefort Media.…

If/Then

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How do we lead with purpose, make better decisions, and navigate an uncertain future? On If/Then, Stanford GSB faculty break down cutting-edge research on leadership, strategy, and more, exploring enduring questions and the forces reshaping business and society today, from AI to geopolitics. Hosted by senior editor Kevin Cool.

33 episodes

If/Then

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updated 5 days ago

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33 episodes

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If/Then

1
Adapting To Massive Technological Change 25:15

5 days ago25:15

25:15

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 profile A Low-Cost, Scalable Way to Get More Women Into Tech A.I. Can Help “Personalize” Policies to Reach the Right People A/B Testing Gets an Upgrade for the Digital Age East Brother Light Station Chapters (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 Market See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

If/Then

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Think You Know Yourself? Think Again. 26:09

19 days ago26:09

26:09

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. This conversation was recorded on November 13, 2024. Related Content: Brian Lowery faculty profile A Provocative Theory of Identity Finds There is No “You” in Self Let’s Make a Deal: Negotiation Tips from the Experts Quick Thinks: How Others Define Us Janet Varney Chapters: (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) - Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

If/Then

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How Taxes Influence Innovation 25:06

5 weeks ago25:06

25:06

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 profile American Innovation Got Slammed by the “Temporary” End of a Key Tax Incentive Why Some Countries Want Companies to Think Inside the “Innovation Box” Tax Cuts in the UK Gave an Unexpected Boost to African Economies This conversation was recorded on November 5, 2024. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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Dollar Diplomacy: The Hidden Power of Geoeconomics 26:17

7 weeks ago26:17

26:17

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 Muscles Quick Study: China’s Plan to Challenge the Dollar Inside China’s Long March Toward Challenging the Dollar This conversation was recorded on September 5, 2024. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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Broken Systems, Broken Trust: Why We Need New Rules 25:10

8 weeks ago25:10

25:10

“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. This episode features Dominic Cruz and Maya Kesselman Cruz, who perform in the live circus show "Dear San Francisco” at Club Fugazi. How do you think we can restore trust in business, government, and society? Email us at ifthenpod@stanford.edu . Related Links Anat Admati faculty profile The Bankers’ New Clothes: What’s Wrong with Banking and What to Do about It No Rules, No Trust: How Accountability Shapes Communication Are Businesses Undermining Democracy? "Dear San Francisco" at Club Fugazi This conversation was recorded on August 20, 2024. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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Is Work Killing Us? 27:25

9 weeks ago27:25

27:25

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. This episode features Sundance Scardino, a retired para-rescue specialist, firefighter, and paramedic. 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 Aging Why “Copycat” Layoffs Won’t Help Tech Companies — Or Their Employees This conversation was recorded on September 10, 2024. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

If/Then

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Introducing If/Then: Season Two 1:52

12 weeks ago1:52

1:52

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 on our website . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

If/Then

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View From The Top: “Jensen Huang on How to Use First-Principles Thinking to Drive Decisions” 57:44

14 weeks ago57:44

57:44

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 GSB Jensen Huang on How to Use First-Principles Thinking to Drive Decisions | Stanford GSB Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Kevin 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 NVIDIA Huang reflects on his journey from LSI Logic to co-founding NVIDIA. (00:04:56) Securing Early Investments Convincing Silicon Valley investors to back NVIDIA in a non-existent market. (00:08:31) Pivoting in the Face of Failure The critical decisions and resets that saved NVIDIA during challenges. (00:16:24) Call That Changed Everything The 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 Downturns Staying focused on unchanging principles to weather external challenges. (00:31:36) Creating a Flat Organization Empowering employees by sharing context and reasoning transparently. (00:38:13) The Future of Generative AI Generative AI’s potential to redefine computing and communication (00:45:38) Building Organizations for Tomorrow Designing adaptable, future-focused organizations from first principles. (00:48:22) Challenges and Opportunities Ahead Challenges NVIDIA faces, and the innovations Huang is most excited about. (00:51:33) Pace and Regulation of AI Development The need for regulatory measures alongside rapid technological advancements. (00:55:35) Rapid-Fire Insights and Final Advice Personal reflections, leadership advice, and hopes for NVIDIA’s legacy. (00:57:21) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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From the Classroom: Lessons in Failure, Strategy and the Power of Connection 13:01

17 weeks ago13:01

13:01

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 profile Jesper Sørensen, faculty profile Michele Gelfand, faculty profile Class Takeaways This 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) Introduction Kevin Cool introduces the episode featuring clips from the Class Takeaways series. (00:00:55) Embracing Failure Professor Christian Wheeler discusses how embracing failure can lead to growth. (00:03:55) Strategy as a Dynamic Process Professor Jesper Sørensen redefines strategy as an evolving course of action, not a static plan. (00:08:00) Cultural Intelligence in Negotiation Professor Michele Gelfand explains how cultural intelligence is key to negotiation. (00:12:31) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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Pfeffer on Power: “Acting With Power and Using Your Influence with Deborah Gruenfeld” 30:04

20 weeks ago30:04

30:04

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 profile Deborah’s Book: Acting with Power Pfeffer on Power Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Host Jeffrey Pfeffer introduces guest Professor Deborah Gruenfeld from Stanford GSB. (00:01:45) First Impressions and Body Language How people make snap judgments based on appearance and nonverbal cues. (00:03:25) Change How You Show Up The possibility of reframing behavior to project more confidence and authority. (00:06:33) Showing Up with Power Two approaches for appearing more authoritative and powerful. (00:08:53) Inside-Out Power Reframing internal narratives to project power, even in moments of insecurity. (00:11:32) Outside-In Power Techniques for using body language to command authority. (00:14:00) Physical and Social Dynamics How 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 Power Why some individuals are reluctant to embrace power. (00:24:47) Ethical Leaders in Power The importance of ethical individuals embracing power to prevent its misuse by others. (00:28:14) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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The Science Behind Our Everyday Decisions with Think Fast, Talk Smart 13:51

22 weeks ago13:51

13:51

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 profile Jonathan Levav, faculty profile Szu-chi Huang, faculty profile Think 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) Introduction Kevin Cool introduces the episode featuring GSB faculty discussing their research on the Think Fast, Talk Smart podcast. (00:00:35) Cultural Tightness vs. Looseness The benefits of "tight" versus "loose" culture. (00:03:47) Adjusting to Different Cultural Norms Whether individuals can adapt to cultural tightness or looseness. (00:05:24) Decision Fatigue in Court Settings A study on how decision fatigue affects parole rulings over time. (00:07:29) Communication to Combat Decision Fatigue Insights into overcoming decision fatigue and enhancing communication. (00:09:48) The Roots of Motivation The transition from advertising to studying motivation in academia. (00:11:13) Needs and Emotions in Decision-Making The influence of needs and emotions in effective decision-making. (00:13:43) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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How AI-Driven Misinformation Could Undermine Democracy 16:25

25 weeks ago16:25

16:25

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 profile White 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 2023 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. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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The Future of Everything: “Kuang Xu: How to Make (and Keep) Genetic Data Private” 28:21

26 weeks ago28:21

28:21

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) Introduction Host 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 Risks The key ideas and methodology behind making genetic searches more private. (00:06:23) Social Network and Genealogy in Genetic Searches How a genealogy network functions as a social network in genetic searches. (00:09:23) Technical Aspects of Securing Genetic Data The difference between sequential and static methods for genetic searches. (00:11:19) Practical Application of Sequential Methods Ways the sequential search method could be applied without compromising privacy. (00:12:43) First Steps in Sequential Search What the first steps would look like when using the sequential search method. (00:14:41) Balancing Accuracy and Privacy Whether the new privacy methods compromise accuracy in identifying individuals. (00:15:22) Applications in Genetic Research How privacy methods can apply to genetic research for disease prediction and beyond. (00:18:22) Insights During Research S urprise findings from Kuang’s research on genetic privacy. (00:21:28) Privacy Beyond Genetics The possibility of applying these privacy techniques to other sensitive datasets. (00:22:58) Commercial Interest in Privacy Solutions The interest from companies in adopting these privacy innovations. (00:24:09) Genetics and Business School Connection Kuang’s work at Stanford’s School of Business and how it connects to genetics and privacy. (00:25:30) Emergency Room Waiting Times Research related to reducing waiting times in emergency rooms. (00:26:57) In-Person Voting and COVID-19 Spread Overview of data collected during in-person voting during COVID-19. (00:27:54) Conclusion See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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Why I Research: Findings Fueled by the Head and the Heart 9:22

28 weeks ago9:22

9:22

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 profile Mohammad Akbarpour, faculty profile Deborah Gruenfeld, faculty profile 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: https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/insights/why-i-research-findings-fueled-head-heart See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

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Leading in Turbulent Times: How to Develop a Risk-Tolerant Mindset 30:30

31 weeks ago30:30

30:30

Behavioral economist and Professor of Marketing Baba Shiv works with entrepreneurs on how to build a risk-tolerant mindset. A mindset, Shiv believes, that is crucial in times of crisis. While we take a break and prepare for season two of If/Then, we're sharing an episode of Grit & Growth , a podcast from our partners at Stanford Seed. Here, Baba explains two types of mindsets: a fear of failure or a risk-averse mindset (type one) and a fear of missing out on opportunities mindset (type two). “What the rational brain is good at is simply being rational ... it lists what the emotional brain has already decided to do. If you’re stuck in a risk-averse mindset, the rational brain will come in and say, 'These are the reasons why you should not innovate’ Whereas if you’re in a type two mindset, the rational brain will come in and say, 'Here are the reasons why you should take some chances.'” And Shiv believes that taking chances, especially when your competitors are being more timid, is how leaders and companies can succeed. Shiv has seen firsthand that entrepreneurs from emerging economies are particularly innovative: “They’re facing constraints all the time and as a result are more resourceful, not in spite of their situations, but because of them.” Shiv is the Sanwa Bank, Limited, Professor of Marketing at Stanford Graduate School of Business Top Takeaways Sleep. Without it, you’re more likely to wake up feeling risk-averse ... the antithesis to innovation. Calm your mind and the rest will follow — develop a meditation, yoga, or tai chi practice to make your breath and brain more resilient to stress. Pay attention to your heart—actually your heart rate variability — so you know if it’s a good time to make an important decision. Innovation = creativity, multiplied by execution, divided by constraints. Don’t forget to think about your constraints in the design process. Focus on building your collaborative advantage (not just competitive advantage) by developing meaningful connections with suppliers, customers, partners, even competitors. You’ll make more progress with relationships based on trust than just transactions. Instill an innovative mindset throughout your company — survival is going to come from teamwork. On Grit & Growth, meet intrepid entrepreneurs from Africa and South Asia, hear their stories of trial and triumph, and gain insights and guidance from Stanford University faculty and global business experts on how to transform today’s challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities. Baba Shiv on If/Then Season One, " More Than a Feeling: The Keys to Making the Right Choice " See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

If/Then

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Zoom In... or Out? When Face-to-Face Meetings Matter Most, with Jonathan Levav 32:40

1 year ago32:40

32:40

If we want to generate better ideas, then we need to get people back to the office. Jonathan Levav , a professor of marketing at Stanford Graduate School of Business, details his study of remote work and creativity. “Pairs that worked face-to-face generated 15 to 20% more ideas than pairs that worked on Zoom,” he notes. What’s more, in-person brainstorming helped people consider a wider and more diverse range of possibilities. “Working on Zoom was a double penalty. Fewer ideas — and a narrower set of ideas.” Remote work may be the new normal in our post-pandemic world, but Levav cautions us from accepting the status quo — especially if we want to keep our creative edge. As this episode of If/Then: Business, Leadership, Society. explores, our best ideas could still lie ahead of us — if we can all get in the same room. 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. Each episode features an interview with a Stanford GSB faculty member. Key Takeaways: For hybrid work environments, managers should select “in-office” days based on tasks we perform better in person, such as collaboration and brainstorming. More flexible schedules for remote and office work allow employees to bring their best selves and perform better at their jobs. More Resources: Listen to Jonathan Levav’s Webby-Award winning episode on Think Fast, Talk Smart: " Leading From Home: How to Create the Right Environment for Communication" on Spotify , Apple , YouTube , or wherever you get your podcasts. Jonathan Levav, The King Philanthropies Professor of Marketing Stanford GSB Insights featuring Levav's research: 7 Insights to Boost Creativity at Work Effective Recommendations Are Better Heard Than Seen Customer Psychology: Why Don’t People Buy Your Stuff? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .…

If/Then

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Introducing If/Then 1:41

1 year ago1:41