Hello Monday with Jessi Hempel

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.