Episodes

  • Reinventing the Way We Build Homes and Communities with Matthew Marshall

    Reinventing the Way We Build Homes and Communities with Matthew Marshall
    May 21 2024
    Matthew Marshall is the Co-Founder and Chief Business Officer of New Story — a nonprofit pioneering solutions to end the global housing crisis. He serves on two nonprofit boards, CNU Atlanta and Citymakers Collective — a nonprofit teaching aspiring citymakers the holistic design principles of resilient, beautiful, and prosperous places. He holds a BBA from the University of Georgia and is a Y Combinator alumni, a World Economic Forum Global Shaper alumni, and Forbes’ 30 Under 30 leader. This week, Barrett talks with Matthew about his experiences in countries like Haiti, Belize, Ghana, and Peru, and how that led to co-founding a nonprofit focused on the global housing crisis. They discuss New Story’s mission to provide real generational change, and their innovative approach to sustainable housing. They also explore the intricacies of creating a meaningful workplace culture, effective leadership, and how emotional health and authentic connection helps achieve organizational goals. In this episode: [00:00] - Intro [07:22] - The heart and “why” of New Story [12:30] - How Matthew and his co-founders decided what mission to pursue [17:34] - Working with purpose [28:40] - Building a culture of innovation and impact at New Story [50:30] - Practices and habits of a strong organizational culture [57:07] - The power of praise in an organization [59:53] - Defining organizational values and culture [01:03:18] - Building community through shared experiences [01:10:28] - Navigating difficult conversations with emotional intelligence [01:16:52] - Growing as a leader and the importance of voice [01:29:42] - Foundational habits for sustaining performance [01:34:59] - The significance of roots and community in personal and professional life Get full show notes and links at https://GoodWorkShow.com. Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@barrettabrooks.
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    1 hr and 42 mins
  • Scaling Startups, Reviving Nuclear Energy, and Solving Important Problems with Julia DeWahl

    Scaling Startups, Reviving Nuclear Energy, and Solving Important Problems with Julia DeWahl
    May 14 2024
    Julia DeWahl is a talented entrepreneur with a fascinating background in startups. Her roles at companies like Opendoor and SpaceX gave her a wealth of experience in growing companies and solving hard problems. She is currently the Co-Founder and President of Antares, which focuses on making and distributing small modular nuclear reactors. She is a passionate advocate for nuclear energy, which she talks about on her podcast, Age of Miracles. This week, Barrett talks with Julia about her diverse career trajectory, the nuances of transitioning between major roles, the challenges of shifting from software to hardware, and the exciting potential of nuclear energy. They also discuss leading organizations through massive growth, working with polarizing figures, how creative pursuits shape our careers, and the impact of family and friendship on work and life. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro 02:14 - Julia's experience traveling after college 08:49 - How Julia’s creative interests fit into her career path 19:25 - Julia's path into startups 25:33 - Choosing the right problems to work on 31:50 - How financial freedom impacts what projects we work on 43:19 - The transition from software to hardware 51:12 - How family and becoming a parent changes your work 01:08:24 - Joining SpaceX 01:14:32 - Leadership lessons from SpaceX, Elon Musk, and Gwynne Shotwell 01:25:58 - What pulled Julia into the world of nuclear energy 01:32:15 - Why writing in public and launching a podcast is a "Bat Signal" 01:37:03 - Learning more about nuclear 01:42:20 - Launching a nuclear energy startup 01:48:42 - Julia on who she is becoming Get full show notes and links at https://GoodWorkShow.com. Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@barrettabrooks.
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    1 hr and 52 mins
  • Building a Legendary Career in Startups, Reinventing Education, and Giving Without Expectations with Ryan Delk

    Building a Legendary Career in Startups, Reinventing Education, and Giving Without Expectations with Ryan Delk
    May 7 2024
    Ryan Delk is an entrepreneur and investor with a deep-seated passion for revolutionizing education. As the latest venture in his career, Ryan founded Primer, a company that aims to disrupt the traditional educational model by integrating the personalized, high-agency principles of homeschooling and microschooling with advanced technology. Although he grew up in the South, he has built deep roots in the Bay Area's startup scene and a record of meaningful contributions with companies like Gumroad and Omni. Now, Ryan is focusing his seemingly endless energy on education reform. This week, Barrett and Ryan dive into a wide array of topics around the current state and future of education, personal growth, and entrepreneurship. They explore Ryan’s homeschooling background and its profound influence on his perspective on learning and efficiency—key principles that now underpin Primer's educational approach. They discuss Ryan’s journey from disillusionment with established bureaucracies to creating a flexible, high-agency learning environment. They also explore the delicate balance between personal ambition and family life, an insider’s view of startup culture, and the critical, sometimes existential, problems that today's founders are choosing to tackle. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro 01:45 - The frozen banana stand 06:37 - From college dropout to Silicon Valley innovator 29:26 - The power of networking and adding value in tech 35:05 - Going the extra mile 39:48 - The importance of tackling hard problems 45:41 - Starting earlier on harder problems 56:15 - Micro schools: a revolutionary approach to education 01:07:22 - The role of teachers and unions in education reform 01:12:06 - Empowering teachers and valuing education 01:15:06 - The impact of transforming education 01:21:59 - Building a culture of ambition and agency 01:23:44 - Unlocking potential and undiscovered talent 01:32:29 - Balancing professional aspirations with family life 01:40:34 - Envisioning a future shaped by high agency and motivation 01:44:08 - Reflecting on personal growth and family dynamics Get full show notes and links at https://GoodWorkShow.com. Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@barrettabrooks.
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    1 hr and 49 mins
  • Technology, Optimism, and Embracing Bold Ideas with Packy McCormick

    Technology, Optimism, and Embracing Bold Ideas with Packy McCormick
    Apr 30 2024
    Packy McCormick is known for his unique insights into technology and startups. As the founder of Not Boring, he’s built a passionate audience of more than 200,000 people through his knack for deep analysis and genuine storytelling. Packy is a vibe-setter with a career spanning writing, investing, and podcasting (to name a few). Over the past four years, Packy has built Not Boring into one of the most trusted, hilarious, and unique publications covering the bleeding edge of deep tech startups working to solve hard but important problems. This week, Barrett talks with Packy about everything from the complexities of creating content that remains true to its roots while expanding to new audiences, to the personal growth that comes from never giving up. They discuss the financial and societal implications of investing in futuristic ideas, the significance of intellectual honesty in storytelling, particularly with contentious topics like nuclear energy, and the importance of optimism despite market downturns and societal challenges. Packy shares his optimistic vision for the future, fueled by technology and innovation, and his dedication to contributing to a world where work not only shapes individuals but drives prosperity for everyone. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro 02:12 - Packy’s take on Not Boring’s strategy 09:15 - The personal side of professional growth 15:11 - Embracing change and reflecting on success and the journey ahead 33:48 - An optimistic outlook in a downturn 36:32 - Reflecting on missed opportunities and fundraising challenges 38:20 - Rethinking venture capital 41:43 - VC vs charity for societal impact 47:05 - Imagining the future evolution of Not Boring 53:45 - Building an audience today 01:01:40 - The roots of optimism and its impact on entrepreneurship 01:10:43 - The state of journalism and public perception 01:13:57 - Exploring nuclear energy through podcasting 01:20:46 - Financial and creative dynamics of podcasting 01:24:53 - Reflections on nuclear energy and public sentiment 01:35:40 - Personal growth through creative work Get full show notes and links at https://GoodWorkShow.com. Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@barrettabrooks.
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    1 hr and 42 mins
  • Building Resilience, Embracing Optimism, and Revolutionizing Climate Tech with Sophie Purdom

    Building Resilience, Embracing Optimism, and Revolutionizing Climate Tech with Sophie Purdom
    Apr 23 2024
    Sophie Purdom has built her career in the climate tech industry, helping to bridge the gap between environmentalism and business. As the co-founder of CTVC and the founder and managing partner of Planeteer Capital, Sophie’s work focuses on educating, enabling, and orchestrating significant change within the world of venture capital and companies tackling the climate crisis. This week, Barrett talks with Sophie about a wide range of topics from the personal to the professional. They dive into the desire to make an impact with their careers, the importance of establishing meaningful relationships and partnerships, and the evolution of climate tech. Sophie shares her perspective on the various sectors influenced by the climate crisis and the importance of the right skillset for founders in the industry. Emphasizing the compounding effects of incremental actions and the significance of aiming for long-term relevance, Barrett and Sohpie explore the intersection between personal values, the journey of entrepreneurship, and the collective endeavor to move toward a sustainable future. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro 02:19 - Sophie's unique path to climate tech 04:56 - The intersection of business and environmentalism 05:35 - The power of curiosity and diverse interests 09:45 - Aligning capitalism with environmental goals 12:17 - Sophie's approach to building a sustainable future 17:05 - Navigating challenges and opportunities in climate tech 37:26 - Community building and the value of networks 42:39 - Reflecting on personal wellbeing and professional goals 49:49 - The personal cost of sacrifice and finding balance 52:00 - The early days of CTVC 54:20 - Exploring business, leadership, and impact 01:07:02 - Navigating the climate tech landscape 01:18:32 - Envisioning the future and personal growth Connect with Sophie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiepurdom X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/SophiePurdom Planeteer Capital: https://planeteercapital.com Connect with Barrett Barrett’s newsletter: https://BarrettBrooks.com X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/barrettabrooks Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barrettabrooks Get full show notes and links at https://GoodWorkShow.com. Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@barrettabrooks.
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    1 hr and 36 mins
  • Self-Discovery and the Power of Inner Transformation with Anne-Laure Le Cunff

    Self-Discovery and the Power of Inner Transformation with Anne-Laure Le Cunff
    Apr 16 2024
    Anne-Laure Le Cunff is a neuroscientist, writer, and founder of Ness Labs, a platform dedicated to exploring the intersection of neuroscience and personal development. Not only has she cultivated a thriving online community, she also has a remarkable track record of academic achievements coupled with a deep passion for making scientific research accessible to all. Anne-Laure's journey is one of impressive breadth — from leaving Google to pursue her Ph.D., to embracing her Algerian roots, she embodies the spirit of intentional living and learning. Anne-Laure This week, Barrett talks with Anne-Laure about a wide range of subjects revolving around personal growth, intellectual curiosity, and authentic living. They discuss the value of maintaining an anti-library, highlighting the perpetual journey of learning, as well as share their unique approaches to reading and book collection. They also touch on pivotal career decisions, intuitive business partnerships, and the transformative effects of openly sharing knowledge. Anne-Laure also shares her insights on the importance of intuition, acknowledging emotions in decision-making, and embracing one’s cultural identity while navigating the intricate webs of relationships and community building. In this episode: [00:00] - Intro [01:59] - Liminal moments and navigating life's crossroads [05:41] - Lessons from neuroscience on embracing the in-between [10:44] - The power of intuition in decision making [30:07] - Cultural roots and identity [40:03] - Learning from failure [46:38] - Ness Labs [48:34] - The journey of learning and growth [49:22] - The power of authenticity and community [50:07] - Embracing personal evolution [51:35] - The impact of public learning and mistakes [53:00] - Exploring inner growth through psychedelics [54:47] - Ayahuasca experiences [57:42] - The significance of ancestral pain and healing [01:09:41] - Creative process and the virtue of writing in public [01:15:44] - Navigating between academic research and public engagement [01:19:30] - The personal content diet and the anti-library concept [01:27:53] - Envisioning the future and reflecting on personal growth Get full show notes and links at https://GoodWorkShow.com. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@barrettabrooks.
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    1 hr and 38 mins
  • Leading with Empathy and Cultivating Connection in Leadership with Jerry Colonna

    Leading with Empathy and Cultivating Connection in Leadership with Jerry Colonna
    Apr 9 2024
    Jerry Colonna is a coach and facilitator known for integrating the principles of self-awareness and mindfulness into entrepreneurial leadership. He is the CEO of Reboot and the author of the influential books Reboot and Reunion. Through his work, Jerry has established himself as a guiding force in the world of leadership, advocating for a harmonious balance between personal well-being and professional excellence. His influence continues to grow as he teaches others to look within themselves to lead with integrity, compassion, and authenticity. This week, Barrett talks with Jerry about the complex landscape of leadership and the significance of fostering deep connections and a sense of belonging within the business world. They discuss Jerry's belief in merging profitability with social responsibility in business, the value of emotional intelligence and vulnerability in leadership, the challenges and opportunities of coaching, and the importance of looking inward for personal and professional development. They also explore how business leaders can encourage positive systemic change and create environments that prioritize human connection and empathy, paving the way for a stronger sense of community. In this episode: [02:46] - Jerry's journey from executive to holder of stories [03:09] - The power of presence and emotional rapport [06:53] - Exploring inner work and radical self-inquiry [09:48] - Learning to hold space for others [13:57] - The impact of coaching and psychoanalysis on leadership [20:22] - Embracing pain and grief for personal growth [26:33] - The journey of healing and letting go [32:05] - The importance of community and belonging [39:00] - Confronting social issues and embracing humanity [46:00] - Reflecting on economic prosperity and its purpose [46:53] - The role of business in society [48:17] - Personal stories of business and social responsibility [49:58] - Why climate change is a global emergency [50:30] - The human cost of conflict and separation [53:30] - Leadership, belonging, and the CEO's role [01:01:31] - The power of ancestral stories and belonging [01:15:35] - Embracing leadership and creating belonging [01:16:58] - Tools and insights for effective coaching [01:25:03] - Envisioning an unbearably beautiful future Get full show notes and links at https://GoodWorkShow.com. Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@barrettabrooks. Connect with Jerry Jerry on Twitter Jerry on LinkedIn Reboot Connect with Barrett GoodWorkShow.com BarrettBrooks.com Twitter Instagram Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube
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    1 hr and 34 mins
  • Navigating Our Future: Data, Optimism, and Sustainability with Hannah Ritchie

    Navigating Our Future: Data, Optimism, and Sustainability with Hannah Ritchie
    Apr 9 2024
    Hannah Ritchie is the deputy editor at Our World in Data and the author of Not the End of the World, a data-driven guide to solving the climate crisis. A seasoned scientist and a passionate advocate for environmental issues, Hannah brings to the table a wealth of knowledge drawn from her experiences, including her involvement in the Paris Climate Agreement. Her work is deeply rooted in her early awareness of climate change and her subsequent journey through fear, frustration, and ultimately, a resolve to seek out data-driven solutions. This week, Barrett talks with Hannah Ritchie, diving into a range of topics including the pivotal shift in global climate targets, the emotional toll of being an environmentalist, and the importance of critical questioning in data quality control. Hannah recounts her inspirations, the importance of diverse viewpoints in her learning, and the responsibilities that come with her various public-facing projects. Together, they explore the critical intersection of emotion, logic, and activism within the context of environmental and climate issues. They underscore the significance of optimism, strategic thinking in addressing environmental challenges, and the need for incremental yet transformative progress that combines the pursuit of knowledge with tangible action. In this episode: [01:47] - The complexities of communicating science [07:19] - From NPR mistakes to TED Talks: the journey of public speaking [11:01] - A personal dive into climate reality [16:45] - Choosing science over journalism [21:56] - COP 21: a turning point in climate optimism [27:42] - From childhood anxiety to global action [35:39] - Maintaining hope amidst climate anxiety [37:52] - Understanding context in data and news [38:50] - Navigating social media with optimism [39:30] - The power of optimism and solution-oriented thinking [41:16] - Activism and engagement: a path to overcoming anxiety [41:53] - Innovative solutions to environmental challenges [44:06] - The importance of support systems and mentorship [49:36] - Building a diverse team for problem solving [57:23] - The challenges and rewards of data analysis [01:07:32] - The impact of personal and industry viewpoints on research [01:12:18] - The power of data in environmental solutions [01:13:38] - The art of changing minds through data [01:18:19] - Navigating the complexities of environmental data [01:23:35] - The role of beauty and biodiversity in sustainability [01:29:12] - Business opportunities in solving environmental problems [01:34:50] - Personal reflections and future aspirations Get full show notes and links at https://GoodWorkShow.com. Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@barrettabrooks. Connect with Hannah HannahRitchie.com Hannah on Twitter Hannah’s Substack - Sustainability By Numbers Our World in Data Connect with Barrett GoodWorkShow.com BarrettBrooks.com Twitter Instagram Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube
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    1 hr and 48 mins