Show Notes
What does it really mean to master something - and why does mastery keep changing? In this episode, Lynda Gratton sits down with Turner Prize-winning artist Sir Grayson Perry and leadership and career transition expert Herminia Ibarra for a conversation about creativity, reinvention, and staying relevant in a fast-changing world.
Grayson Perry talks about identity, the impact of option paralysis on creativity, and why he’s not worried about AI replacing artists. Herminia Ibarra shares why being great at your job could actually hold you back, how to escape a “competency trap,” and what it takes to reinvent your career - even when you’re not sure what’s next.
From the risks of sticking with what you know, to the courage it takes to start over, this episode is full of real stories, practical advice, and surprising insights on how to keep your career - and yourself - moving forward.
Host:
Lynda Gratton, Professor of Management Practice in Organisational Behaviour, London Business School.
Guests:
Sir Grayson Perry, artist, writer and broadcaster
Herminia Ibarra, Charles Handy Chair in Organisational Behaviour and Professor of Organisational Behaviour, London Business School.
Mentioned in this episode:
Living the 100-Year Life
Life Threads diagnostic
Working Identity
Act Like a Leader, Think Like a Leader
Grayson Perry musical
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
02:00 Grayson Perry on art, craft and learning new skills
11:01 The difference between a hobby and a career
15:00 Identity, authenticity and mental health
29:15 Herminia Ibarra on career transitions and networks
40:38 The cost and trap of mastery
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