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Adam Grant

@adamgrant · psychology, work, podcast

open on instagram

Organizational psychologist @whartonschool #1 NYT bestselling author of THINK AGAIN and HIDDEN POTENTIAL @TED podcast: Re:Thinking

http://linktr.ee/adammgrant

2.8M followers
19 reels read
78.7x best outlier
10.9x typical
64M views in here
26 May 2026 newest

how they make themright length, bold text, simple setup, broad appeal, broad topic, clear voice, useful advice, surprising truth

adam grantpodcast clippsychologypublic speakingself improvementpersonal growthcareer advicelife advicemental healthpodcast interviewcorporate culturebrene brownrethinkingjennifer garnerleadership tipscommunication skillspodcasthappinessconversationmotivationkristen bellrethinking podcastrelationshipsworkplace culture

19 reels in the database, most viral first

1

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 10 Jan 2024

78.7x outlier

A man shares nineteen simple words that help leaders give feedback people actually want to hear.

16M views
418K likes
1.5K comments
4.4K shares
278K saves
2.8M followers
32s long
2.7% liked
hookA famous actress asks a question about mentoring that instantly grabs the attention of anyone who works with others.
  • Woman on stage. A woman in a dark sweater looks thoughtful under bright stage lights.
  • Simple stage setting. The dark background keeps all attention on the speaker.
  • Clear spoken audio. She speaks clearly about helping younger team members.
  • Yellow subtitles. Bold yellow words at the bottom make it easy to follow along.
  • Broad appeal. Anyone who manages, teaches, or works on a team wants to hear the answer.
retainThe quick tip is so useful that the actress immediately writes it down on her notepad.
  • Useful advice. The speaker reveals a short sentence that makes people open to feedback.
  • Real emotion. The woman laughs with joy and starts writing down the advice immediately.
  • Essential notepad. Her pen and paper show how valuable the tip really is.
  • Pacing and edits. There are 5 shots in 32.3 seconds, changing pictures right when the conversation shifts.
  • Clear story flow. A question is asked, a clear answer is given, and the listener takes notes.
rewardViewers learn an exact script they can use to coach colleagues without making them feel attacked.
  • Taught a trick. Viewers learn nineteen exact words to set high expectations kindly.
  • Inspired to lead. The video makes viewers feel ready to help others grow.
  • Reminded of good habits. It shows that setting clear intentions upfront builds trust fast.
adam grantjennifer garnerleadership tipsmentoring advicegiving feedbackcareer growthmanagement skillsworkplace advicecommunication skillspublic speakingpodcast cliptough love

When you give tough love, how do you highlight that you’re doing it because you care? This event with @jennifer.garner was one of my favorites ever—filled with surprise and delight. Podcast link in bio: we talk parenting and mentoring, acting and aging, hidden potential, and what our dream school would look like

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2

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 28 Aug 2024

24.8x outlier

Adam Grant and Trevor Noah discuss why chasing happiness directly often fails and how happiness happens as a side effect of living well.

5M views
197K likes
653 comments
0 shares
0 saves
2.8M followers
56s long
4.0% liked
hookA clear question about changing your mind grabs the viewer immediately.
  • Speaker face. A smiling man speaks directly into a podcast microphone.
  • Clean setting. Warm wood panels sit behind him in a bright studio.
  • Clear captions. Bold white text shows the opening question at the bottom.
  • Broad appeal. Most people care about happiness and changing their mind.
retainA warm and thoughtful chat keeps viewers watching until the final point.
  • Deep topic. Learning that happiness is a result rather than a goal feels fresh and helpful.
  • Calm mood. Both men speak softly and listen to each other with care.
  • Shot pacing. There are 12 shots in 56.4 seconds, shifting view about every 4.7 seconds.
  • Simple props. Studio microphones and a coffee mug sit between the speakers.
  • Easy flow. One person asks a question, the guest gives world examples, and the host ties it together.
  • Right length. The video shares a complete thought in under one minute.
rewardViewers learn a new way to view happiness without feeling pressure to chase it.
  • New perspective. You see happiness as something that happens while doing other meaningful things.
  • Feeling understood. Anyone stressed about finding happiness feels relieved.
  • Calm feeling. The quiet tone leaves you feeling peaceful and relaxed.
adam granttrevor noahpodcasthappinesslife adviceself improvementmind shiftconversationphilosophymental healthwellbeingpodcast clippsychologydeep talkmotivation

Being obsessed with happiness can make us unhappy. Part 2 with @trevornoah is live now—podcast link in bio. Along with happiness, we talk about communicating clearly and the power of context. Trevor also does a few impressions… including one of me 😬 😆

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3

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 6 May 2026

23.0x outlier

Actress Kristen Bell explains why dealing with annoying family members helps us stay connected to a community.

4.6M views
159K likes
2.1K comments
52K shares
33K saves
2.8M followers
57s long
3.5% liked
hookViewers stop scrolling because a famous actress shares a funny truth about dealing with annoying people.
  • Famous face. Kristen Bell sits under bright stage lights talking on a stage.
  • Bold text. Big white text asks how to tolerate annoying people.
  • Big audience. Almost everyone has an annoying relative or coworker they struggle to handle.
retainViewers keep watching because Kristen Bell tells a hilarious and relatable story about a fake uncle.
  • Funny story. She uses a funny example named Uncle Randy to make her point clear.
  • Great acting. Her expressive face and funny tone make the message feel very real and lighthearted.
  • Regular edits. The video uses 9 shots in 56.9 seconds, moving to a new shot about every 6.3 seconds.
  • Easy message. The story is simple to follow and teaches a gentle lesson about patience.
rewardViewers leave with a fresh and funny way to view annoying people in their lives.
  • New view. Viewers learn that annoyance is just the price we pay for community.
  • More patience. People feel encouraged to give lonely relatives a bit more grace.
  • Good laughs. The funny jokes about Uncle Randy bring quick entertainment and joy.
adam grantkristen bellrethinking podcastuplift betterupcommunity tipsdealing with familyannoying peoplemental healthrelationshipslife advicepodcast clipfunny interview

@kristenanniebell dropping wisdom on how a life without irritation is a life without connection. For our full conversation, Re:Thinking podcast link in bio

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4

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 22 Mar 2024

21.2x outlier

An expert explains why the person who talks the most in a meeting often gets picked as the leader even if they are bad at the job.

4.2M views
134K likes
1K comments
0 shares
0 saves
2.8M followers
34s long
3.2% liked
hookA speaker introduces a surprising rule about who gets picked as a team leader.
  • Clear face. A bald man smiles warmly while sitting in front of a dark studio background with a microphone.
  • Text style. Bold white captions appear cleanly near the bottom of the screen.
  • Opening line. He names a scientific term that sounds unusual and catches attention right away.
  • Broad topic. Anyone who works in a team or attends meetings can relate to this idea.
retainThe speaker breaks down why confidence is often mistaken for real skill.
  • Surprising truth. He explains why loud talkers fail to make the people around them smarter.
  • Pacing speed. The video is one unbroken take with no cuts over thirty three seconds.
  • Calm delivery. He speaks with a gentle tone that makes deep research easy to understand.
  • Podcast setup. A studio microphone shows this clip comes from a longer professional conversation.
  • Clear structure. He moves smoothly from defining the rule to showing why it hurts teams.
rewardViewers learn why talkative people get promoted and how to spot better leaders.
  • New knowledge. Viewers learn the name for why loud talkers take over team discussions.
  • Validation. Quiet workers feel recognized when they learn that confidence is not real competence.
  • Smarter habits. People are inspired to listen to quiet voices in their next team meeting.
adam grantleadership tipsbabble effectmeeting adviceworkplace psychologyconfidence vs competenceteam managementpodcast clipworkplace cultureprofessional growthquiet leaders

What do you look for in a leader? It’s time to stop promoting the people who command the most airtime and start elevating the ones with the most expertise. For more, listen to my conversation with @steven and check out ch8 of Hidden Potential

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5

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 12 Apr 2025

20.6x outlier

Two experts talk about research showing that having children does not make parents happier in their daily lives.

4.1M views
67K likes
3.4K comments
0 shares
0 saves
2.8M followers
47s long
1.6% liked
hookA bold question about parenting makes viewers stop scrolling to see what the research shows.
  • Bold start. A bald man looks at the camera while speaking clearly into a dark microphone.
  • Simple setting. The speaker sits in front of a simple couch with soft room light.
  • Clear voice. Clear speech asks a big question right away without background music.
  • Big text. Bright white captions at the bottom show the big question about parent happiness.
  • Broad topic. Parenting and joy affect millions of families who care about happiness.
retainA surprising answer about parenting data keeps viewers engaged until the end.
  • Surprising facts. The speaker jokes that happiness increases when kids leave home, which sparks curiosity.
  • Real emotion. Both speakers smile and laugh together while sharing real science facts.
  • Paced cuts. The video has 7 shots in 47.2 seconds, cutting about every 6.7 seconds between speakers.
  • Minimal props. Microphones and split screens keep the focus entirely on the discussion.
  • Easy story. The video starts with a question, delivers a funny joke, and explains the research.
  • Right length. A short length under fifty seconds covers the main point without wasting time.
rewardViewers learn a clear research fact about children and daily parent happiness.
  • Taught something. Viewers learn that studies show kids have a slight negative effect on daily parent joy.
  • Feels amused. The funny joke about kids moving away gives people a good laugh.
  • Made curious. Viewers want to think about the difference between happiness and meaning in life.
adam grantpodcast interviewparenting factschildren and happinesspsychology researchfamily lifescience datarelationship tipshealth advicepersonal growthfull episodequote clip

Having kids is a better source of meaning than happiness. Psychologist Dan Gilbert and I discuss the evidence, which is extensive and rigorous—podcast link in bio

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6

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 26 May 2026

15.2x outlier

Kristen Bell shares a deep thought about overexplaining, and Adam Grant jokingly refuses to ask her to explain it further.

3M views
81K likes
544 comments
17K shares
21K saves
2.8M followers
19s long
2.7% liked
hookViewers stop scrolling because a bold text box asks about a daily habit almost everyone has.
  • Famous faces. Adam Grant sits in a cozy chair on a bright stage.
  • Warm stage light. Simple lighting makes the scene feel clean and professional.
  • Clear voice audio. Crisp talking audio plays with no background music.
  • Bold text box. White text asks why people overexplain things.
  • Universal topic. Almost everyone overexplains sometimes, so the topic fits everyone.
retainViewers watch to the end to hear Kristen Bell's punchy quote and Adam Grant's funny reaction.
  • Surprising idea. Kristen says overexplaining is actually just a way of begging for approval.
  • Warm humor. Adam laughs and jokes that he will not ask her to explain it.
  • Fast video cuts. There are 7 shots in 19.3 seconds, with a new shot about every 2.8 seconds.
  • Simple chairs setup. Sitting on stage keeps all focus on the short conversation.
  • Easy story line. A quick question leads to a sharp answer and a good joke.
  • Short video length. At under twenty seconds, the clip stays short and sweet.
rewardViewers walk away with a fresh idea about how they talk and a warm laugh.
  • New self awareness. People learn a fresh way to look at their own talking habits.
  • Fun light joke. Adam Grant's cute response leaves the viewer smiling.
  • Useful wisdom. A deep thought is delivered in just a few clear words.
adam grantkristen bellpsychologyoverexplainingcommunication tipspersonal growthrethinklife adviceself reflectionconversationtalk showlife lessonsmindsetrelationship advice

@kristenanniebell gave me a whole new perspective on why we overexplain things. Does it ring true for you too?

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7

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 30 Jul 2024

14.0x outlier

A speaker explains why leaders should speak last in meetings to avoid groupthink and encourage real feedback.

2.8M views
90K likes
319 comments
0 shares
0 saves
2.8M followers
48s long
3.2% liked
hookThe speaker opens with a funny business acronym that makes people want to hear the explanation.
  • Clean look. A bald man wearing a blazer and black shirt sits on stage.
  • Stage lighting. A dark futuristic backdrop with white lights frames the speaker.
  • Clear voice. The speaker talks in a warm and confident tone.
  • Bold subtitles. White text appears at the bottom with a black highlight box.
  • Broad topic. Workplace meetings and boss opinions affect almost every worker.
retainThe quick business lesson stays interesting because it offers a practical trick for better teamwork.
  • Useful advice. The speaker explains how boss opinions ruin group ideas and offers a smart fix.
  • Told not shown. The speaker talks directly to an audience rather than showing a scene.
  • Warm tone. The speaker smiles and uses clear hand movements to make his point.
  • Slow pacing. The video has 2 shots in 47.8 seconds, changing shots every 23.9 seconds.
  • Simple setup. The speaker sits on a stage chair with a microphone.
  • Clear progression. He names the problem, explains why it happens, and gives a clear solution.
  • Right length. The video covers one clean idea without dragging on.
rewardViewers gain a practical tip for running better meetings and dealing with bosses.
  • Smart tip. Viewers learn why leaders should speak last during important team choices.
  • New phrase. People learn what a challenge network is and why critics help us.
  • Workplace insight. Viewers feel validated if they have felt quieted by a boss.
adam grantworkplace tipsleadership advicebusiness strategygroupthinkmeeting rulesmanagement tacticscareer advicecorporate cultureteam buildingpublic speakingwork humor

When people lack power and status, it’s easy for them to be silenced. What’s your favorite way to make sure their voices are heard? So fun discussing with @joannacoles @brilliantmindssthlm

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8

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 15 Mar 2024

13.4x outlier

A speaker explains why basing your identity on values rather than beliefs makes changing your mind feel like growth instead of a threat.

2.7M views
86K likes
379 comments
0 shares
0 saves
2.8M followers
35s long
3.2% liked
hookA clear question about values and beliefs makes viewers pause to think about their own mind.
  • Friendly face. A bald man in a plain dark green shirt smiles into a studio microphone.
  • Podcast setup. He sits in a dark studio with professional recording gear.
  • Original audio. He speaks directly to the camera with clean sound and no background music.
  • Bold subtitles. Big white text at the bottom shows his opening question immediately.
  • Wide audience. Anyone who wants to think better or learn new things can relate to this topic.
retainThe speaker explains a clear idea about human thinking that feels useful and easy to follow.
  • Useful idea. He explains why changing your mind is hard when you tie your worth to being right.
  • Calm speaker. He speaks with a warm and gentle tone that makes big ideas easy to hear.
  • Slow pacing. The clip uses 3 shots in 35.3 seconds, with a new shot about every 11.8 seconds.
  • Simple microphone. The dark podcast setup keeps all the attention on his message.
  • Clear logic. He builds his point step by step from defining words to explaining self worth.
  • Right length. The short duration gives enough time to share one strong idea without extra talk.
rewardViewers learn to link their identity to curiosity instead of always needing to be right.
  • New mindset. Viewers learn that changing their mind is a sign of personal growth.
  • Less fear. People feel better about admitting when they were wrong about something.
  • Smarter habit. Viewers feel inspired to value curiosity and keep learning every day.
adam grantpodcast interviewmind changehuman valuesbeliefs explainedself growthcuriosity mindpersonal identitymental healthdeep thinkinglife lessonspeaking advice

Do you see changing your mind as a sign of weakness or growth? It depends on whether you base your identity on your beliefs or your values. Enjoyed discussing with @steven. For more, see chapter 3 of Think Again

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9

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 7 Oct 2025

13.2x outlier

Adam Grant asks Brené Brown why questions to show how anyone can discover their core values.

2.6M views
146K likes
614 comments
42K shares
57K saves
2.8M followers
55s long
5.5% liked
hookViewers stop because two famous authors are talking about a question everyone thinks about.
  • Famous host. Adam Grant sits on stage in warm studio lighting looking attentive.
  • Stage setting. The purple background and university logo look like a big professional talk.
  • Clear audio. Clean live speech audio starts immediately without distracting music.
  • Bold text. Big white text in a black box asks why vulnerability is important.
  • Broad subject. Everyone wants to know what values matter most in life.
retainViewers stay to see if Brené Brown can answer the hard questions and see how the method works.
  • Useful method. The repetitive why method quickly reveals what really matters to a person.
  • Real reactions. Brené Brown struggles and laughs, making the conversation feel honest and fun.
  • Steady cuts. The video uses 18 shots in 54.8 seconds, changing view every 3.0 seconds to stay active.
  • Simple setup. Only two chairs and a table are used, keeping all focus on the conversation.
  • Easy steps. The question and answer flow is simple to follow from start to end.
  • Good length. Under one minute is the right amount of time to show the technique.
rewardViewers learn a quick technique to find their deepest values and feel inspired to try it.
  • Learned a tool. Viewers discover the simple why process to uncover core values.
  • Shared laughter. The humor and relief at the end make the viewer feel lighthearted.
  • Inspired to act. Viewers want to try asking themselves why to find their own values.
adam grantbrene browncore valuespsychologyself improvementpodcast clipleadershippersonal growthlife adviceinterviewvulnerabilitycouragerethinkingterminal values

@brenebrown survives my favorite approach to identifying core values—podcast link in bio

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10

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 14 Aug 2024

10.9x outlier

Adam Grant explains why learning styles are a myth and how trying hard ways to learn actually helps you more.

2.2M views
76K likes
897 comments
0 shares
0 saves
2.8M followers
30s long
3.5% liked
hookA man speaks confidently into a microphone on a bright purple background, instantly catching your attention with a surprising fact about learning.
  • Bald man profile. A bald man wearing a green shirt looks to the side near a black microphone.
  • Bright background. The background is a vibrant purple color with clean lighting.
  • Clear text. White captions appear on screen in simple, easy-to-read sentences.
  • Broad topic. Everyone who has tried learning a skill or subject can relate to this topic.
retainThe simple single shot and surprising science keep viewers watching to see how learning actually works.
  • Surprising truth. Research shows that you do not learn better just because you like a certain style.
  • One long shot. The video is 1 unbroken take, no hard cuts, 30.4 seconds long.
  • Essential setup. A simple microphone setup is all that is used to deliver the message clearly.
  • Easy lesson. The speaker explains the concept step by step using everyday words.
  • Perfect length. The 30.4 second time matches the short lesson without dragging out the point.
rewardViewers learn that pushing through difficult ways of learning helps them grow faster.
  • Taught something. Viewers learn that learning styles are actually a myth according to research.
  • Feeling motivated. Viewers feel inspired to step out of their comfort zone when studying or learning.
  • Useful reminder. Viewers get a helpful reminder not to limit themselves to one way of learning.
adam grantlearning styleseducation mythhow to learnstudy tipspsychologyteachinglearning styles mythstudy adviceself improvementpodcast clipspeakingscience of learning

Don’t let preconceived notions about your learning style hold you back. For a review of the science, see ch1 of Hidden Potential From my discussion on the @lastneanderthals podcast

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11

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 2 Oct 2025

10.2x outlier

Brené Brown and Adam Grant explain why corporate terms like executive presence and charisma are bad ways to judge people at work.

2M views
74K likes
771 comments
20K shares
15K saves
2.8M followers
46s long
3.6% liked
hookA bold text overlay challenges a common workplace phrase right from the first second.
  • Bold text. The text overlay says Stop saying people lack executive presence in white letters.
  • Warm setting. A woman with short blonde hair and a brown jacket speaks on a stage with purple lighting.
  • Clear voice. The speaker starts right away by saying she does not like executive presence.
  • Broad subject. Anyone who works in an office or has felt judged at work will relate to this message.
retainThe quick back-and-forth conversation between two famous speakers keeps viewers tuned in.
  • Surprising idea. The speakers explain that popular corporate buzzwords are often used to discriminate against women and introverts.
  • Strong emotion. Brené Brown speaks with honest passion and humor that feels genuine.
  • Regular cuts. The video uses 10 shots in 45.9 seconds, changing views about every 4.6 seconds to keep the stage chat visually engaging.
  • Simple setup. Two people sit on chairs on a stage, keeping all the attention on their conversation.
  • Clear story. The conversation moves step by step from rejecting buzzwords to defending quiet workers.
rewardViewers feel validated about being themselves at work instead of forcing fake confidence.
  • Feeling validated. Introverts and women feel seen and supported by respected leaders.
  • Smart lesson. Viewers learn to question corporate terms that hold good workers back.
  • Desire to listen. The short clip makes viewers want to check out the full podcast episode.
adam grantbrene brownexecutive presencecharismaworkplace cultureleadershipintroverts at workcareer advicerethinking podcastinterview clipstage talkcorporate culture

“Executive presence” is overrated, and so is charisma. @brenebrown and I discuss—podcast link in bio

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12

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 5 Jul 2025

10.1x outlier

A teacher in Thailand stands at her classroom door and lets each student pick how to greet her.

2M views
106K likes
942 comments
0 shares
0 saves
2.8M followers
45s long
5.3% liked
hookThe sight of tiny school children picking a greeting from a wall poster stops people who want a sweet moment.
  • Cute Kids. A young teacher in a uniform stands next to a line of tiny children in pink aprons.
  • Classroom Setting. Bright light fills a colorful school hallway in Thailand.
  • Uplifting Music. Cheerful upbeat music plays as the children line up by the door.
  • Clear Caption. Text asks if every classroom in every country should use this idea.
  • Broad Subject. Anyone who cares about kids or teaching will stop to watch.
retainViewers keep watching to see which greeting each little student picks from the wall.
  • Simple Idea. The video shows the kids choosing a hug, a fist bump, or a bow instead of explaining it.
  • Pure Joy. The teacher smiles big and bends down to give warm hugs to her students.
  • Unbroken Take. The video stays in one unbroken take for 44.9 seconds with zero cuts.
  • Key Wall Chart. A colorful poster on the door frame lets kids point to the exact greeting they want.
  • Easy Pattern. Every child takes a turn, points at the wall chart, and gets their special greeting.
  • Right Length. The length gives enough time to see several kids enter without dragging.
rewardViewers leave feeling happy and inspired by a warm morning routine.
  • Warm Heart. Seeing small children get a warm embrace makes people feel happy inside.
  • Good Idea. Teachers gain a fun tip to help kids feel welcomed every morning.
  • Happy Mood. The light song and bright smiles put the viewer in a great mood.
  • Sweet Feeling. Watching respectful and loved students fills people with hope.
adam grantteacherthailandgreetingclassroomprimary schoolstudentsmorning routinehugsfist bumpeducationinspiringheartwarmingchildrenclassroom wallteacher lifehappy

A teacher in Thailand invites her students to pick their greeting. 💙 Can we do this in every classroom in every country?

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13

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 24 Jun 2024

9.4x outlier

A speaker shares a simple trick called the second score to handle harsh feedback without getting defensive.

1.9M views
43K likes
196 comments
0 shares
0 saves
2.8M followers
46s long
2.3% liked
hookA famous actor asks a relatable question about getting past perfectionism to keep making progress.
  • Clear view. A woman looks down thoughtfully on a dark stage with warm lighting.
  • Bold text. Yellow text on screen asks how to stop perfectionism from getting in the way of progress.
  • Famous speaker. Adam Grant appears right after to answer with a lesson about feedback.
  • Big audience. Dealing with harsh criticism is something almost everyone struggles with at work or school.
retainThe speaker gives a clear mindset trick that turns bad feedback into a chance to show growth.
  • Useful lesson. The idea of giving yourself a second score for how well you handle bad news is easy to grasp.
  • Great speaking. The speaker uses hand gestures and animated facial expressions to keep the talk engaging.
  • Slow cuts. The video has 3 shots in 46.0 seconds, changing shot about every 15.3 seconds.
  • Simple setup. The stage has background flowers and dark walls that keep all focus on the speaker.
  • Clear story. The explanation moves cleanly from the pain of bad news to the clever solution of scoring your reaction.
rewardViewers walk away with a simple tool to accept tough criticism and turn it into a positive step forward.
  • Taught something. Viewers learn how to grade their reaction to criticism instead of just arguing about the bad result.
  • Less stressed. Viewers feel relieved that past mistakes do not have to stop them from improving.
  • Inspired to act. Viewers want to try giving themselves a high grade for accepting tough feedback next time.
adam grantjennifer garnerfeedback adviceperfectionismself improvementpersonal growthhandling criticismsecond scorepublic speakingmindset shiftcareer advicemotivation

When people give tough feedback, it’s easy to get defensive. How do you stay open? @jennifer.garner and I discussed my favorite approach: instead of defending your past performance, focus on demonstrating your future potential

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14

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 28 Apr 2025

9.2x outlier

Asking people for advice works much better than asking them for feedback.

1.8M views
41K likes
270 comments
0 shares
0 saves
2.8M followers
27s long
2.2% liked
hookA bold claim on screen makes people pause to see if their current habits are wrong.
  • Speaker look. A bald man wearing a black shirt and jacket speaks on stage.
  • Stage background. Bright purple lights shine on the speaker from behind.
  • Clear sound. The speaker talks directly into a microphone with clear audio.
  • Bold text. Large text says asking for feedback is the wrong choice.
  • Broad appeal. Most people at work want to know how to get better.
retainThe quick explanation shows why feedback fails and why advice helps you grow.
  • Useful idea. The speaker shows why critics and cheerleaders do not help you grow.
  • Great delivery. Hand gestures and clear words keep the video engaging.
  • Single shot. The clip is 1 unbroken take lasting 26.6 seconds with no cuts.
  • Minimal props. The video relies entirely on the speech and simple text on screen.
  • Easy logic. The thought moves step by step from problem to solution.
  • Right length. The whole tip takes less than half a minute to explain.
rewardViewers learn a practical trick to get better advice in work and life.
  • Taught a trick. Viewers learn to ask for advice instead of asking for feedback.
  • Inspired to act. Viewers feel ready to try a new question next time.
  • Mindset change. Viewers see how looking forward helps more than looking back.
adam grantself improvementcareer advicepersonal growthproductivity tipscommunication skillsfeedbackpublic speakingwork adviceprofessional developmentpsychologyworkplace tips

Instead of seeking feedback, my favorite question to ask is “What’s the one thing I can do better?” Video from my @intelligencesquared event. For an overview of the evidence, see ch2 of Hidden Potential

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15

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 15 Feb 2026

9.0x outlier

Comedian Zarna Garg argues against following your passion for career success on Adam Grant's podcast.

1.8M views
47K likes
510 comments
15K shares
5.9K saves
2.8M followers
30s long
2.6% liked
hookA bold headline about career advice makes viewers stop to hear a fresh perspective.
  • Bold visual text. A large white title at the top asks why you should not follow your passion.
  • Split screen layout. Two people appear in video call frames with podcast microphones.
  • Expressive speakers. A woman in pink speaks with energy while a man in green smiles.
  • Clear audio. Clear voices ask about the worst career advice ever.
  • Broad topic. Almost everyone thinks about career advice, so the message fits a wide audience.
retainHumorous arguments and relatable advice keep viewers engaged until the final sentence.
  • Surprising perspective. The speaker argues that passion should stay a hobby rather than a job.
  • Funny delivery. The comedian makes jokes about monetizing misery and making jokes freely.
  • Single unbroken take. The video stays in one unbroken take for 29.5 seconds without edits.
  • Simple setup. The podcast split screen keeps the focus entirely on the conversation.
  • Clear story arc. The talk moves from a simple question to funny examples and a clear answer.
  • Ideal length. The short 29.5 second run time keeps the punchline quick and light.
rewardViewers gain a practical laugh about career pressure and feel relieved about keeping hobbies separate from work.
  • Funny realization. Viewers laugh at the blunt idea of keeping work and passion separate.
  • Relief from pressure. People feel better about not turning every hobby into a full career.
  • Useful perspective. Listeners get a sensible view on doing work the world needs.
adam grantzarna gargcareer advicefollow your passionpodcast interviewfunny advicerethinkingjob tipshumorwork life balancepodcast clipcareer guidancelife lesson

@zarnagarg makes a compelling and hilarious case against following your passion

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16

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 8 Sept 2024

9.0x outlier

A speaker explains why some people always act like victims to get sympathy and control others.

1.8M views
63K likes
762 comments
0 shares
0 saves
2.8M followers
42s long
3.5% liked
hookThe sharp purple background and bold text about victim mindsets grab attention right away.
  • Speaker look. A bald man wearing a dark green shirt looks slightly away from the camera.
  • Bright room. A vivid purple backdrop makes the person stand out clearly.
  • Clear voice. The spoken voice sounds crisp with no background music playing.
  • Bold text. Large white text with a black outline displays the words being spoken at the bottom.
  • Broad appeal. Anyone who deals with difficult people in daily life will care about this subject.
retainPeople keep watching to hear the psychology behind why some individuals always complain.
  • Surprising idea. Selfish people may pretend to be victims just to gain support and power.
  • Talking head format. The main point is spoken directly to the camera rather than shown.
  • Calm delivery. The speaker talks in a thoughtful and clear manner without getting angry.
  • Unbroken video. The video is 41.7 seconds long with 1 unbroken take and zero cuts.
  • Microphone prop. A black studio microphone sits near the speaker to give a podcast feel.
  • Easy structure. The explanation flows logically from the problem to the psychological reason.
  • Good duration. The short time fits the single central thought without dragging.
rewardViewers learn how to spot people who use fake victimhood to manipulate others.
  • Taught a lesson. The viewer understands the psychological tricks behind constant complaining.
  • Feeling validated. People who deal with selfish friends or coworkers feel understood.
  • Better awareness. The viewer knows what signs to look for in future conversations.
adam grantpsychologymental healthvictim mindsetpersonal growthself improvementrelationshipscommunicationpodcast cliphuman behaviorlife advicetalking headeducation

You probably know some people who air their grievances like every day is Festivus. It turns out that this is a strategy that selfish people often use to signal virtue without having to model it. For the evidence, see “The tendency for interpersonal victimhood” (Gabay et al) and “Signaling virtuous victimhood as indicators of dark triad personalities” (Ok et al) Full conversation on the @lastneanderthals podcast

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17

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 22 May 2026

8.8x outlier

Adam Grant and Brené Brown discuss why saying 'I'm giving you your time back' at the end of a meeting is annoying.

1.8M views
43K likes
1.1K comments
12K shares
7.4K saves
2.8M followers
53s long
2.5% liked
hookThe video stops viewers with a bold warning text about common meeting habits.
  • Bold onscreen text. The video starts with text telling people to stop saying a specific phrase in meetings.
  • Friendly speakers. Adam Grant and Brené Brown appear wearing microphones in home offices.
  • Broad topic appeal. Almost anyone who goes to meetings knows how annoying bad meeting phrases can be.
retainThe dialogue keeps viewers engaged through a funny explanation and a clever solution.
  • Relatable complaint. Adam explains why giving time back sounds like someone claims power over your life.
  • Dynamic pacing. The clip changes perspectives 14 shots in 53.1 seconds to keep the energy up.
  • Funny alternative. Brené suggests a much better way to ask for time back at the end of a call.
  • Easy structure. The conversation moves smoothly from the problem to a funny solution.
rewardViewers feel validated about office pet peeves and get a funnier way to close meetings.
  • Feeling validated. Viewers realize they are not the only ones bothered by this workplace habit.
  • Useful advice. People learn a fresh phrase to use when closing a video call early.
  • Good laugh. The warm laughter at the end puts the viewer in a positive mood.
adam grantbrene brownmeetingsworkplace etiquettepodcast clipproductivity tipscareer adviceoffice humorvideo call tipspublic speakingpet peevescorporate culture

What’s your biggest pet peeve in meetings? @brenebrown and I discuss mine—as well as why she can’t watch The Office, and what she’s learned from 30 years of sobriety—this week @thecuriosityshop

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18

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 12 Jul 2024

8.8x outlier

A speaker explains why smart people fall for the bias of thinking they have no biases.

1.8M views
64K likes
488 comments
0 shares
0 saves
2.8M followers
34s long
3.6% liked
hookThe speaker grabs attention by naming a surprising mind trap that affects smart people.
  • Bald speaker. A bald man wearing a gray jacket sits under soft stage lighting.
  • Dark stage. The backdrop has dark metallic tiles with a clean stage setting.
  • Clear speech. The speaker talks directly to the audience without background music.
  • Big subtitles. Bold white subtitles appear across the bottom of the frame.
  • Wide reach. Everyone wants to know if they are secretly biased or overly confident.
retainThe audience stays watching to learn how intelligence relates to personal flaws and wisdom.
  • Surprising truth. The speaker explains that high IQ scores actually make people more likely to fall for thinking traps.
  • Expressive talk. The speaker uses hand movements and clear facial expressions to keep the audience engaged.
  • Slow shot pacing. There are 3 shots in 33.8 seconds, changing about every 11.3 seconds with cuts at 4.4 seconds and 6.5 seconds.
  • Minimal setup. The video features a speaker on chairs on stage, but the talk itself is what matters.
  • Easy logic. The point moves step by step from defining the bias to explaining why smart people suffer from it.
  • Right timing. The 33.8 second duration fits a single clear idea without dragging.
rewardViewers walk away with a fresh view on human intelligence and humility.
  • Taught something. Viewers learn about the bias blind spot and how it affects smart thinkers.
  • More humble. People realize that high intelligence does not guarantee good judgment.
  • Clear thinking. Viewers see the difference between intelligence and wisdom.
adam grantpsychologymental biasblind spotthinking trapcognitive biasiq testwisdom vs intelligencestage talkpublic speakingself awarenessmind gameshuman behavior

What thinking trap worries you most? For me, it’s not confirmation bias or the Dunning-Kruger effect—it’s the bias blind spot. “Other people have flaws in their thinking, but I’m perfectly rational!” Enjoyed discussing at @brilliantmindssthlm with @joannacoles

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19

@adamgrant Adam Grant · 26 Jan 2025

8.6x outlier

A podcast guest explains why kids do not need big friend groups to be happy.

1.7M views
49K likes
569 comments
0 shares
0 saves
2.8M followers
45s long
2.9% liked
hookThe opening line makes people rethink what kids need to feel like they belong.
  • Bald host speaker. Adam Grant speaks on a video call in a dark room.
  • Clear visual text. White captions at the bottom read that many teens lack a group.
  • Broad appeal. Fitting in and making friends are topics almost everyone cares about.
retainThe expert gives clear advice that takes the pressure off parents and kids.
  • Useful advice. The guest explains why big groups lead to drama and why two friends are enough.
  • Calm speaker. The woman speaks clearly while wearing headphones in a soft lit room.
  • Pacing and cuts. The video has 3 shots in 44.5 seconds with a new shot about every 14.8 seconds.
  • Simple setup. The clean video call layout keeps the focus entirely on the message.
  • Easy to follow. The ideas move from the problem with big groups to simple steps for parents.
rewardViewers feel relieved to learn that having a few good friends is better than being popular.
  • Relief for parents. Parents stop worrying if their child only hangs out with one person.
  • Validation for teens. Kids with small friend groups feel like they have things figured out.
  • Simple tips. Viewers learn what to say to kids who feel left out.
adam grantrethinkingpodcastparentingteenagerfriendshipmental healthadvicewisdomparenting tipsteen mental healthhappinessschool friendshigh schoolmiddle school

How many friends does it take to prevent loneliness and promote well-being? Fewer than we realize, @lisa.damour reveals. Podcast link in bio

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