Podcasts > Creating Confidence with Heather Monahan > #406: You Can Be REMARKABLE: The Guide To Growth, Grit, & Grace with Guy Kawasaki Chief Evangelist of Canva & Remarkable People Podcast Creator

#406: You Can Be REMARKABLE: The Guide To Growth, Grit, & Grace with Guy Kawasaki Chief Evangelist of Canva & Remarkable People Podcast Creator

By Heather Monahan

Dive into the mind of Guy Kawasaki as he joins Heather Monahan in "Creating Confidence with Heather Monahan" to discuss the inspiration behind his 16th book, "Think Remarkable," and the art of creating an immensely successful podcast. Drawing on lessons from interviews with personalities like Jane Goodall and Stacey Abrams, Kawasaki shares how embodying growth, grit, and grace can elevate individuals from being different to making a truly remarkable impact on the world. This episode isn't just about personal success; it's an exploration of how one's efforts can resonate far and wide, prompting listeners to rethink what it means to leave a lasting legacy.

The conversation delves into real-life accounts of people like Andrea Lytle Peet, who illustrate the power of the human spirit in overcoming life's toughest challenges. Kawasaki also imparts wisdom on the value of patience in judgment and action, suggesting that we often overlook the rich complexities that each person's story holds. With an encompassing look at planting seeds for the future, this episode with Heather Monahan and Guy Kawasaki invites listeners to consider the deep-rooted influence their actions have, not just for today, but for generations to come.

#406: You Can Be REMARKABLE: The Guide To Growth, Grit, & Grace with Guy Kawasaki Chief Evangelist of Canva & Remarkable People Podcast Creator

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#406: You Can Be REMARKABLE: The Guide To Growth, Grit, & Grace with Guy Kawasaki Chief Evangelist of Canva & Remarkable People Podcast Creator

1-Page Summary

Explaining Kawasaki's rationale for writing his 16th book, Think Remarkable

Guy Kawasaki's 16th book, "Think Remarkable," draws from wisdom and insights gleaned from over 200 interviews with notable figures like Jane Goodall and Stacey Abrams. Kawasaki recognized commonalities among these individuals, such as a growth mindset and commitment to learning. With the aim of empowering others to impact the world positively, he structured the book around the themes of growth, grit, and grace. Far from being a mere self-help book, Kawasaki's goal is to inspire actions that better the world, encouraging readers to move from being different to truly remarkable.

How to build a successful podcast by getting a big initial guest like Jane Goodall

Guy Kawasaki shares his experience of building a successful podcast by initially featuring eminent guest Jane Goodall. Goodall's presence led to a series of high-profile personalities on his podcast, aided by Kawasaki's well-established personal brand and strategic social media use. He emphasizes the importance of an influential first guest, such as Goodall, which can certify the podcast's credibility and attract further celebrated guests.

Importance of making the world better instead of just focusing on yourself

Guy Kawasaki emphasizes that remarkable people focus on improving the world rather than personal achievements. Doing good work should come first, he asserts, as it will naturally lead to being seen as remarkable. By living according to principles of karma and striving to leave a positive legacy, individuals can ensure their work benefits everyone, thereby genuinely embodying what it means to be remarkable.

Stories of people overcoming adversity like Andrea Lytle Peet running marathons with ALS

Andrea Lytle Peet's story showcases her determination to overcome adversity by setting the remarkable goal to run marathons in all 50 states despite her ALS diagnosis. Her resolve continued even after being rejected from the Boston Marathon, as she completed it solo, demonstrating unparalleled perseverance and the triumph of the human spirit in the face of immense challenges.

Not rushing to judge people before knowing their full story

Guy Kawasaki advises against quick judgment without understanding an individual's full story. Everyone has hidden talents and challenges that might not be immediately apparent. Acknowledging this, according to Kawasaki, can lead to more empathetic interactions and a more inclusive society.

Planting acorn seeds as a metaphor for having patience and leaving a legacy

Kawasaki equates planting acorn seeds with nurturing life experiences that extend beyond one's own lifetime. He emphasizes the importance of legacy and the accrued benefits that come over long timescales, encouraging actions that might benefit future generations rather than seeking immediate rewards. This metaphor highlights the enduring impact patience and effort can have on the world.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Guy Kawasaki is a well-known author, speaker, and entrepreneur who previously worked at Apple as a chief evangelist. He is recognized for his expertise in marketing, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Kawasaki has written multiple books on topics ranging from business strategies to personal development, drawing from his experiences in the tech industry and as a venture capitalist. His work often focuses on empowering individuals to achieve success and make a positive impact in their fields.
  • Featuring Jane Goodall as a guest on a podcast is significant because she is a highly respected figure in the fields of primatology and conservation, lending credibility and prestige to the podcast. Goodall's presence can attract a wider audience and other notable guests, leveraging her influence to elevate the podcast's visibility and reputation. Additionally, her insights and experiences can provide valuable content for listeners, offering unique perspectives and engaging storytelling. Overall, having Jane Goodall as an initial guest can serve as a powerful catalyst for the podcast's success and growth.
  • Karma is a concept from Indian religions and philosophies that suggests the effects of a person's actions will influence their future. In the context of being remarkable, focusing on positive actions and intentions can lead to a cycle of good outcomes and recognition. It emphasizes the idea that the energy you put into the world, whether positive or negative, will eventually come back to you. By aligning actions with positive values and intentions, individuals can create a ripple effect of goodness that contributes to their remarkable reputation.
  • Andrea Lytle Peet is known for her remarkable feat of running marathons in all 50 states despite being diagnosed with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, leads to muscle weakness and impacts physical function over time. Peet's determination to continue running despite her diagnosis showcases her incredible perseverance and resilience in the face of significant adversity. Her story serves as an inspiration for many, highlighting the power of the human spirit to overcome challenges.
  • Planting acorn seeds as a metaphor for leaving a legacy signifies the act of investing in actions or initiatives that may not yield immediate results but have the potential to grow and benefit future generations. Just as an acorn planted today can grow into a mighty oak tree over time, the metaphor emphasizes the importance of patience, persistence, and foresight in creating a lasting impact that extends beyond one's own lifetime. It encourages individuals to focus on sowing seeds of positive change that will continue to bear fruit long after they are gone, emphasizing the value of thinking beyond immediate gratification and considering the broader, long-term implications of one's actions.

Counterarguments

  • While Kawasaki's book may offer valuable insights, not all readers may find the advice practical or applicable to their unique circumstances, as individual challenges can vary greatly.
  • Empowering readers is a noble goal, but the book's impact may be limited by the reader's own motivation, resources, and external factors beyond their control.
  • The concept of being "remarkable" can be subjective, and what is considered remarkable in one culture or context may not be seen the same way in another.
  • Securing a high-profile guest like Jane Goodall can indeed boost a podcast's credibility, but it is not the only path to success; content quality, consistency, and audience engagement are also critical factors.
  • Focusing on improving the world is commendable, but individuals also need to take care of their personal well-being and professional development to sustain their ability to contribute positively.
  • Andrea Lytle Peet's story is inspiring, but not everyone with a similar diagnosis may be able to achieve the same feats, and their struggles should not be diminished or overlooked.
  • While it is important not to rush to judgment, there are situations where quick decision-making is necessary, and not all judgments are negative or lack empathy.
  • The metaphor of planting acorn seeds is a powerful one, but it assumes a long-term perspective that may not resonate with or be feasible for everyone, especially those facing immediate challenges.

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#406: You Can Be REMARKABLE: The Guide To Growth, Grit, & Grace with Guy Kawasaki Chief Evangelist of Canva & Remarkable People Podcast Creator

Explaining Kawasaki's rationale for writing his 16th book, Think Remarkable

Guy Kawasaki shares the inspiration and intent behind his latest book, "Think Remarkable," which draws from the collective wisdom of over 200 individuals he’s interviewed on his podcast.

Drawing from Wisdom and Insights from his 200+ Podcast Interviews with Remarkable People to Filter into an Accessible Book

Kawasaki took inspiration for his 16th book from interviews with over 200 remarkable individuals like Jane Goodall and Stacey Abrams. He recognized a common pattern among these people involving a growth mindset and a commitment to continuous learning. Feeling a moral obligation, Kawasaki sought to distill the valuable insights and wisdom he gained from these interviews into an accessible book designed to empower others to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Goal to Empower Readers to Make the World Better Instead of Focusing Only on Themselves

Kawasaki clarifies that "Think Remarkable" is not another self-help book focused solely on individual success. Instead, he aims to inspire readers to make the world a better place. His objective is for people to say that his works have empowered them to be remarkable not just for personal gain, but for the broader purpose of enhancing the world. He stresses the importance of thinking remarkable in today’s fractured society and encourages readers to elevate their goals from simply being different to being truly remarkable.

Structure Based on the Growth, Grit, and Grace Mod ...

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Explaining Kawasaki's rationale for writing his 16th book, Think Remarkable

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Guy Kawasaki is a well-known author, speaker, and entrepreneur with a background in marketing and technology. He gained prominence as one of the early Apple employees responsible for marketing the Macintosh computer in the 1980s. Kawasaki has since become a prolific writer, focusing on topics related to entrepreneurship, innovation, and personal development. His experience in the tech industry and his role as a venture capitalist have shaped his perspectives on success, leadership, and making a positive impact in the world.
  • The growth, grit, and grace model represents the journey of remarkable individuals. Growth involves learning new skills and embracing challenges. Grit signifies hard work and perseverance. Grace is about using experiences to make a positive impact on the world.
  • Kawasaki's book, "Think Remarkable," aims to empower readers by distilling insights from interviews with remarkable individuals into actionable advice. By emphasi ...

Counterarguments

  • The effectiveness of distilling insights from a diverse group of individuals into a single, unified book format may not capture the depth and nuance of each person's unique experiences and perspectives.
  • While the book aims to empower readers to make a positive impact, it may not address the systemic barriers and inequalities that can limit an individual's ability to enact change.
  • The growth, grit, and grace model may oversimplify the complex journey of personal and professional development, and may not resonate with everyone's experiences.
  • The assumption that all readers will be able to apply the lessons from "Think Remarkable" equally may not take into account varying socio-economic backgrounds and access to resources.
  • The focus on being remarka ...

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#406: You Can Be REMARKABLE: The Guide To Growth, Grit, & Grace with Guy Kawasaki Chief Evangelist of Canva & Remarkable People Podcast Creator

How to build a successful podcast by getting a big initial guest like Jane Goodall

Guy Kawasaki shares his experiences and strategies for building a successful podcast through the strategic acquisition of high-profile guests like Jane Goodall.

Landing Goodall for his first guest opened doors to subsequent high-profile guests

Kawasaki reveals that having Jane Goodall as his first podcast guest created a ripple effect, making it significantly easier for him to secure other prominent figures. After the interview with Goodall, Kawasaki was able to leverage her name to attract guests such as Stacey Abrams, Margaret Atwood, Steven Wolfram, and Neil Degrasse Tyson. Her presence on his show acted as a powerful endorsement, opening doors to interviews with subsequent high-profile guests.

Using social media and his reputation from past work to make those connections

The director of TEDx Palo Alto reached out to Kawasaki to moderate an interview with Jane Goodall, a connection that materialized serendipitously due to Kawasaki's established reputation from his work with Apple and Macintosh. This opportunity was not merely a stro ...

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How to build a successful podcast by getting a big initial guest like Jane Goodall

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • TEDx Palo Alto is a local, independently organized event licensed by TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) that features live speakers and TED Talk-style presentations. These events are organized by volunteers and aim to spark conversation and connection within the community. TEDx events follow the format and spirit of TED conferences but are self-organized at a local level.
  • Guy Kawasaki is a well-known figure in the tech industry, particularly for his work with Apple in the 1980s. He was one of the early employees responsible for marketing the Macintosh computer, a pivotal product in Apple's history. Kawasaki's role involved promoting the Macintosh and contributing to its success in the market. His experiences at Apple have shaped his career and reputation in the technology and marketing fields.
  • Leveraging social media for visibility and credibility involves using platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram to showcase your expertise, achievements, and connections. By sharing content related to your field and engaging w ...

Counterarguments

  • While landing a high-profile guest can certainly help attract other notable figures, it is not the only strategy for building a successful podcast; content quality, consistency, and audience engagement are also critical factors.
  • The strategy of leveraging a big-name guest might not be feasible for new podcasters without existing connections or a significant platform.
  • Relying heavily on high-profile guests could overshadow the host's own brand or the podcast's unique value proposition, potentially making it more about the guests than the content itself.
  • Kawasaki's success in securing Jane Goodall and other guests may not be easily replicable by others who do not have a similar level of pre-existing reputation or industry connections.
  • The approach of using one's past reputation and social media might not be as effective for individuals who are just starting out and have not yet established a significant online or profession ...

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#406: You Can Be REMARKABLE: The Guide To Growth, Grit, & Grace with Guy Kawasaki Chief Evangelist of Canva & Remarkable People Podcast Creator

Importance of making the world better instead of just focusing on yourself

The recent discourse with Guy Kawasaki delves into the essential theme of prioritizing the welfare of the world over individual visibility, advocating that one's pursuit to be deemed remarkable should inherently be linked to the impact they create.

Do good work and make a difference first, and being seen as remarkable will follow

Kawasaki underscores the concept that doing good work, particularly work that aims to enhance the world, naturally results in being perceived as remarkable. He emphasizes it is not about vanity or seeking immediate gratification through self-help means. Rather, being remarkable is an offshoot of contributing positively, whether one is in a role as a teacher, parent, or in other impactful capacities. Kawasaki supports the idea that by focusing on making substantive contributions, recognition as a notable figure is a consequential rather than a primary goal.

Living by principles of karma and leaving a legacy

Within the conversation, Kawasaki and Heather Monahan touch upon the principles of karma and the golden rule. They propose that when individuals live by these guiding ideals, they engage in acts that transcend mere personal benefit and cater to the betterment of the whole. This way of living ensures tha ...

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Importance of making the world better instead of just focusing on yourself

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Guy Kawasaki is a well-known author, speaker, and entrepreneur who is recognized for his work in marketing and entrepreneurship. He is a former chief evangelist for Apple and has written several books on business and innovation. Kawasaki often emphasizes the importance of making a positive impact through one's work and focusing on creating value for others. His philosophy revolves around the idea that by prioritizing meaningful contributions and making a difference in the world, individuals can naturally stand out and be seen as remarkable.
  • Karma is a concept originating from Indian religions that suggests the effects of a person's actions will influence their future experiences. It is often understood as the principle of cause and effect, where positive actions lead to positive outcomes and negative actions lead to negative consequences. The golden rule is a mora ...

Counterarguments

  • The concept of being remarkable is subjective and can vary across cultures and individuals; what is considered remarkable in one context may not be in another.
  • Focusing solely on making a difference can lead to burnout or neglect of one's own needs, which are also important for sustaining long-term contributions to society.
  • Recognition and visibility can be important for securing resources and support that enable individuals to make a larger impact.
  • The principles of karma and the golden rule, while valuable, may not always be practical or applicable in complex real-world scenarios where ethical decisions are not clear-cut.
  • The idea of leaving a legacy assumes that one's actions will be remembered or valued by future generations, which is not guaranteed.
  • Acts that cater to the betterment of the whole may sometimes require difficult trade-offs or sacrifices that could negatively impact cer ...

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#406: You Can Be REMARKABLE: The Guide To Growth, Grit, & Grace with Guy Kawasaki Chief Evangelist of Canva & Remarkable People Podcast Creator

Stories of people overcoming adversity like Andrea Lytle Peet running marathons with ALS

Andrea Lytle Peet exemplifies the extraordinary human ability to overcome adversity through her inspiring journey running marathons across the United States, even as she lives with ALS.

Persevering far beyond life expectancy and expected physical abilities

Andrea Lytle Peet was diagnosed with ALS and was given the typical life expectancy of two years. However, she has defied expectations by living eight years beyond this prognosis. Following her diagnosis, Peet set an ambitious goal to complete a marathon in all 50 states, despite the significant time and financial investment, as well as the considerable physical barriers imposed by her condition.

Rejection from Boston Marathon led her to complete it solo anyway

Peet encountered a significant obstacle when the Boston Athletic Association denied her application to run the Boston Marathon. There was no category th ...

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Stories of people overcoming adversity like Andrea Lytle Peet running marathons with ALS

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • ALS, also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It leads to the loss of voluntary muscle control, impacting movement, speech, and eventually, the ability to breathe. There is currently no cure for ALS, and the average life expectancy after diagnosis is around 2 to 5 years. Notable individuals like Stephen Hawking have brought attention to ALS through their experiences with the disease.
  • A recumbent bike is a type of bicycle where the rider sits in a reclined position. This design offers ergonomic benefits and can be more aerodynamic than traditional upright bikes. Recumbent bikes were banned from traditional cycling races in the past but have their own separate competitions now. They come in various configurations, including different whe ...

Counterarguments

...

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#406: You Can Be REMARKABLE: The Guide To Growth, Grit, & Grace with Guy Kawasaki Chief Evangelist of Canva & Remarkable People Podcast Creator

Not rushing to judge people before knowing their full story

Kawasaki advices the public on the importance of understanding the full breadth of an individual’s experiences before forming judgments. He urges people to consider the multifaceted nature of every person’s life, recognizing that everyone has a mixture of talents and challenges that are often not apparent to outside observers.

Everyone has talents and struggles unseen to outsiders

Kawasaki underscores the idea that individuals may face unseen struggles or carry responsibilities that take precedence over other performances in their lives. He notes that while someone may not appear to excel in certain aspects of their job or life, they likely have other dimensions where they demonstrate their talents and strengths.

Withholding judgment creates more positive ripple effects

In advocating for a more understanding approach, Kawasaki suggests ...

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Not rushing to judge people before knowing their full story

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Kawasaki is a well-known figure in the business and tech world, particularly recognized for his work at Apple in the 1980s. He is an author, speaker, and venture capitalist known for his insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, and marketing. His advice often focuses on the importance of empathy, understanding, and the human side of business and life. Kawasaki's perspectives are valued for their practical wisdom and emphasis on seeing beyond surface judgments.
  • Withholding judgment can lead to more positive outcomes by allowing individuals to be seen more holistically, fostering empathy a ...

Counterarguments

  • While understanding the full story is important, there are situations where immediate judgment or decision-making is necessary for safety or efficiency.
  • Not all judgments are negative; some can be based on positive observations and can lead to constructive feedback or recognition of good work.
  • Complete withholding of judgment might not always be practical or beneficial, as judgments can sometimes lead to necessary interventions or support for individuals who might need it.
  • There is a risk that withholding judgment could lead to inaction or passivity in situations where action is required to a ...

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#406: You Can Be REMARKABLE: The Guide To Growth, Grit, & Grace with Guy Kawasaki Chief Evangelist of Canva & Remarkable People Podcast Creator

Planting acorn seeds as a metaphor for having patience and leaving a legacy

Heather Monahan received acorn seeds with Kawasaki's manuscript, a metaphor emblematic of patience and the legacy we leave for future generations.

Nurturing trees that may outlast your own lifetime

Kawasaki uses the act of gathering acorns to plant oak trees as a life lesson, emphasizing the value of amassing experiences. He suggests that, similar to acorns, some experiences might not succeed or "float," while others take root and flourish given time and dedication. He encourages a perspective focused on nurturing endeavors that may outlast one's lifespan, providing a sense of continuity and legacy.

Benefits accrue over long timescales, for your grandchildren more than yourself

The conversation with Kawasaki delves into the idea of thinking beyond immediate gratification. He talks about planting something today that your grandchildren may benefit from, such as the shade from an oak tree, which he might never enjo ...

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Planting acorn seeds as a metaphor for having patience and leaving a legacy

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The metaphor of planting acorn seeds to symbolize leaving a legacy emphasizes the idea of investing in something that will grow and endure over time, just like a tree that starts from a small seed. It highlights the importance of patience and long-term vision in creating a lasting impact that extends beyond one's own lifetime. By nurturing and tending to these seeds, individuals can contribute to a legacy that benefits future generations, showcasing the power of persistence and foresight in shaping a meaningful heritage.
  • Planting acorns for future generations' benefit symbolizes investing in long-term outcomes that may not be immediately experienced by the planter but will provide value to their descendants. It emphasizes the importance of thinking beyond one's lifetime and considering the legacy and impact that actions today can have on future generations. By nurturing trees that may outlast one's own lifespan, individuals contribute to creating a sustainable and enduring legacy for their descendants. This act embodies patience, foresight, and a commitment to leaving a positive impact that extends far into the future.
  • Kawasaki's philosophy on patience and legacy revolves around the metaphor of planting acorn seeds to symbolize the importance of investing in endeavors that may outlast one's lifetime. He emphasizes the value of accumulating experiences and nurturing long-term goals that can benefit future generations. This philosophy encourages a shift from seeking immediate rewards to focusing on creating a lasting impact and legacy through sustained effort and patience. By advocating for planting seeds that may not bear fruit in one's lifetime but contribute to a legacy for future generations, Kawasaki highlights the significance ...

Counterarguments

  • While planting acorns as a metaphor for patience and legacy is inspiring, it may oversimplify the complexities of legacy-building, which often involves active engagement and decision-making beyond the initial act of planting.
  • The metaphor assumes that all legacies are inherently positive, but it's important to recognize that the impact of one's actions on future generations can also be negative, and intentionality is key in shaping a beneficial legacy.
  • Accumulating experiences is valuable, but the metaphor does not address the quality of these experiences or the importance of reflection and learning from them, which are crucial for personal growth and meaningful contributions to society.
  • The idea of nurturing endeavors that outlast one's lifespan is noble, but it may not resonate with everyone, as some individuals may prioritize making a difference in the present or may not have descendants to consider.
  • The focus on long-term benefits for future generations might inadvertently downplay the importance of addressing urgent issues that affect people living today, such as climate change or social injustices.
  • The metaphor suggests a linear progression of growth and success, which may not account for the cyclical or unpredictable nature of life and the fact that some efforts may not lead to the desired outcomes despite patience and dedi ...

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