DeepSummary
The podcast episode is an interview between Adam Grant and Jared Cohen, a history buff and author of the book 'Life After Power'. The conversation explores the lives of seven American presidents after they left office, including their struggles, transitions, and pursuits of purpose. Cohen provides insights into the psychological aspects of this transition, highlighting how some presidents found greater meaning and impact in lower stations than their presidency.
A key focus is on John Quincy Adams, who after an unsuccessful presidency, became a leader in the abolitionist movement while serving in the House of Representatives. Cohen discusses how Adams stumbled upon this cause and played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual architecture for the Emancipation Proclamation, inspiring figures like Abraham Lincoln.
The discussion also touches on other presidents like Thomas Jefferson, Herbert Hoover, and George W. Bush, exploring their diverse paths and approaches to finding purpose and fulfillment after leaving the White House. Cohen shares his observations on the challenges of legacy, relationships, and adjusting to a life without the burdens of the presidency.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- The pursuit of purpose and meaning can continue, and even intensify, after leaving a position of power or influence.
- Embracing new causes, relationships, and intellectual interests can be crucial for a fulfilling life after power.
- Detaching from a successor's actions and decisions is essential for moving on and finding contentment.
- The transition from power can be challenging, but also an opportunity for personal growth and rediscovery.
- Patience and openness can sometimes lead to unexpected paths and greater impact than one's previous position.
- Cultivating trust, friendship, and emotional connections can be difficult but valuable for those in positions of power.
- Legacy and achievements should not be the sole focus; finding purpose in the present is equally important.
- Different individuals have varying approaches to life after power, reflecting their unique motivations and personalities.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “I think what's striking from each of these presidents is the investments that make for a good final chapter in life. They start at the middle of life. The people you have around you, the relationships, the family, the hobbies, the intellectual interests, the ability to detach from the burdens of the past.“ by Jared Cohen
- “I think what I'm struck by with a lot of these leaders, I get to know them in a very personal way. I spend big chunks of my day joking around with them and sending each other memes and engaging them on a very informal way. There's plenty of substantive engagement as well. But when you break down those barriers of formality, I'm struck by how little space they have for just regular friendship and emotion and the value that they feel when they can let their guard down and when they know they can really trust somebody.“ by Jared Cohen
- “Whether you're a president of the United States or a CEO, one of the most important things to do, and I would argue it's a necessary step in order to be able to have a successful life after power, which is to unburden yourself from what your successor is doing.“ by Jared Cohen
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Episode Information
WorkLife with Adam Grant
TED
2/6/24
Jared Cohen is a history buff with a career that boasts its own remarkable story. From the State Department to founding Jigsaw at Google to leading global affairs and innovation at Goldman Sachs, Jared has worked with the world’s top leaders to tackle humanity’s biggest problems. His work in international problem-solving also translates into a passion for U.S. history. His new book, Life After Power, is a fascinating exploration about what seven American presidents did after leaving the most influential job in the world. Adam and Jared discuss the psychology of the founding fathers, debate the pros and cons of pursuing a legacy, and share what these historic figures can teach us all about pursuing and finding purpose. Life After Power is out February 13, 2024. Transcripts for ReThinking are available at go.ted.com/RWAGscripts