I'm always thrilled when I can engage with bright minds on topics that I'm passionate about.  In this interview with Dan Pink, we talk about core lessons for navigating a successful career from his book, The Adventures of Johnny Bunko, including knowing who you are, playing to your strengths, being persistent and being of service to others. These are the things Pink wishes someone had told him 25 years ago–not the tactical details of writing a resume, but strategic information to focus time and effort in the right places.

One of the best parts of the interview is near the end, where Pink
talks about the dangers of playing it too safe and how taking
calculated risks, even in a recession, can lead to a big payoff, both
professionally and personally. In his words:

"No one has ever re-trenched their way to greatness."

Our conversation also touches on how our workplaces are motivating the wrong behavior and what's needed to align who we are as human beings with the most productive workplaces. Pink is a dogged in his research, using decades of science as the cornerstone for his arguments.  Yet, I realized during our talk that the message he espouses is one of a humanist. He's an advocate for bringing more of our humanity into the mix of how business operates.

Click here for the interview.

If this leaves you hungry for more, check out Pink's newest book on intrinsic motivation, Drive, just released today and his free teleseminar for buyers of the book on New Year's Day. 

If you are in the Denver area, stay tuned for details on a March 8 public event, "A Conversation with Dan Pink," sponsored by the Northwestern Club of Colorado and facilitated by yours truly.