E190: The Number One Reason This Generation Is Struggling: Scott Galloway

One's upbringing and circumstances can greatly influence their opportunities and success in life. Scott Galloway reflects on the factors that shaped his journey, including having a single immigrant mother who was passionately committed to his well-being and being born as a white heterosexual male in California during a time of great economic and educational accessibility. He acknowledges that much of his success was due to these fortunate circumstances, including access to free education and the opportunities afforded by the internet age. However, he also recognizes the absence of financial stability and support, which served as a source of motivation for him to overcome challenges and take responsibility for his own future. The conversation emphasizes the impact of context and privilege on individual experiences and outcomes.

Economic security and wealth have a significant impact on one's life in America. Scott Galloway emphasizes the importance of financial stability and the sacrifices required to achieve it. He recognizes that America can be a kind and generous place for those with money, but a harsh and violent place for those without. Galloway also highlights the unequal experiences of the US healthcare system between the rich and the poor. However, he acknowledges that not everyone wants to prioritize work and money, and there are alternative paths to a good life, such as living within one's means and finding balance. Ultimately, Galloway encourages young people to have a realistic understanding of their economic aspirations and to be prepared for the trade-offs and commitment required to achieve them.

Mental health, particularly depression, should be openly discussed and understood. Scott Galloway shares his experience with his mother's depression and how it shaped his views on happiness and fulfillment. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing depression in oneself and others, and understanding that it is not always a result of external circumstances but can be a chemical imbalance. Galloway also highlights the significance of community and social interaction in combating unhappiness and depression, highlighting the decline in community involvement and the impact of COVID-19 on social isolation. Overall, the key takeaway is that by openly discussing and understanding mental health, and fostering a sense of community, we can address and alleviate issues of depression and unhappiness.

Human beings need socialization and meaningful interactions in order to thrive and be happy. The lack of physical connection and the increasing dependence on technology and virtual interactions is causing a decline in socialization, especially among young people. This is leading to a rise in depression and feelings of isolation. Scott Galloway emphasizes the importance of being in the agency of others, whether through a job, nonprofit, sports league, or other activities, in order to build relationships, learn from others, and make a positive impact. He also expresses concern about the current trend towards isolation and detachment from real-life experiences. Without recognition and external investment in programs that promote socialization and community engagement, this problem is likely to continue.

There is a concern about a decline in grit among young people, specifically Gen Z in the Western world. The hosts discuss how influences like TikTok may be promoting a less resilient and hardworking mindset. Scott Galloway expresses his worry about instilling grit in his own children due to their access to everything they need. However, he also mentions that the young adults he teaches and works with are remarkably talented, hardworking, and socially conscious. They challenge the notion that this generation is entitled, and Galloway believes that being involved in sports and attending elite universities are indicators of success. Additionally, he notes that women tend to mature earlier and have shown to be successful in his own firm.

The most important decision young people will make in their twenties and thirties is who they decide to partner with, specifically in terms of having children. Choosing a real partner who brings happiness and support is more crucial than career choices or living location. Creating opportunities for serendipity and contact with people is essential in finding a compatible partner, and young men should be more proactive in expressing interest in a thoughtful way. However, the decline of marriage and relationships among certain socioeconomic groups, especially men, due to online dating has made it a luxury item. Despite this, young people should take advantage of dating apps and also explore other avenues like work, friends, and school to meet potential partners.

Online dating has created an unequal mating dynamic, which has significant societal implications. Technology has resulted in a winner take all or winner take most situation, where a small percentage of highly attractive men receive the majority of attention from women. This leaves a large number of men with little to no success in the dating market, leading to feelings of frustration and loneliness. The consequences of this inequality include a rise in emotionally and economically nonviable men, potentially leading to increased social and safety risks. To address this issue, it is crucial to focus on providing more job opportunities and vocational programs for young men, building their confidence and economic viability. Additionally, fostering social opportunities and creating a more level playing field for all young people can help mitigate the negative consequences of online dating's impact on mating dynamics.

There is a pressing need for young men to embrace physical fitness and develop discipline in order to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. Scott Galloway emphasizes the importance of being physically fit and strong as indicators of success and confidence. He believes that young men lack motivation and guardrails, leading to a decline in their overall well-being and productivity. Additionally, Galloway points out the dangers of engaging in misogynistic content, conspiracy theories, and blaming others for personal failures. These negative attitudes and behaviors can contribute to a toxic societal environment and hinder progress. It is crucial for young men to take responsibility for their actions, develop healthy relationships, and work towards self-improvement in order to shape a better future.

Progressives should redefine and reclaim masculinity, recognizing that it is not exclusive to cisgender men. It is important to redefine masculinity as more evolved and thoughtful, encompassing attributes such as intelligence, kindness, and strength. The left should acknowledge these differences and not conflate masculinity with toxicity. It is okay to be a man and celebrate the positive aspects of masculinity. The conversation also highlights the idea of an "arc of happiness" in life. While the years between 25 and 45 are typically the most challenging, filled with responsibilities and hardships, there is a shift in happiness and appreciation for life as one gets older. The finite nature of life and the ability to find joy in the mundane bring about greater happiness, even in old age.

Happiness is not a constant state, and it is normal to feel unhappy or stressed at times. Scott Galloway emphasizes that as we go through different phases of life, such as career, relationships, and parenthood, there are inevitable challenges and hardships that can affect our happiness. He shares his personal experiences, citing the loss of his mother and professional setbacks, as difficult moments in his life. However, these low points also served as motivation for him to work harder and prioritize his responsibilities, especially when he became a father. Ultimately, Galloway highlights the importance of facing adversity and finding joy in unexpected places, ultimately leading to personal growth and resilience.

Perspective is important in life. Scott Galloway emphasizes the finite nature of life and the importance of valuing relationships and being kinder to oneself. He shares that many people nearing the end of their lives have regrets about not living their lives authentically or being too harsh on themselves. Understanding that life is not just about what happens to you, but how you respond to it, can be liberating. Galloway also highlights the transformative experiences of losing a loved one and becoming a parent, which shift one's focus from oneself to others. Ultimately, gaining perspective and prioritizing meaningful connections can lead to a more fulfilling life.

Self-doubt and imposter syndrome can be powerful motivators, but they can also hinder personal growth and relationships. Scott Galloway expresses his concerns and fears about being a fraud and constantly feeling like he has fooled everyone around him. He attributes this mindset to societal beliefs that being talented and a bit of an asshole equates to genius and leadership. However, as he has gotten older, he has realized the importance of kindness and empathy. He recognizes the negative impact of his past behaviors and regrets not treating others better. Increasing self-awareness comes with age and a realization that success shouldn't come at the expense of making others feel inferior. It's essential to be compassionate and uplift others instead of diminishing them for personal gain.

Being present in the moment and balancing work and personal life are important for personal growth and meaningful relationships. Scott Galloway emphasizes the need to prioritize being present for one's loved ones, even when work demands attention. The challenge lies in managing the constant drive to think about work and finding a balance that allows for quality time with family. Slowing down time and cherishing the present is also highlighted as a goal, as Scott mentions his realization that time flies by quickly. Ultimately, the key takeaway is to prioritize being kind, present, and finding a balance between work and personal life to foster strong relationships and personal well-being.

Getting into things and embracing emotions can slow down time and help us connect with what's important in life. Scott Galloway suggests that immersing ourselves in activities, even if they seem silly, can make time feel more expansive. Additionally, tapping into our emotions and allowing ourselves to laugh and cry can also create a sense of presence and extend our experiences. Furthermore, Galloway highlights the significance of prioritizing our health. Regular exercise serves as an antidepressant and contributes to overall well-being. It enhances our mood, boosts our confidence, and improves our relationships. Taking care of ourselves physically and emotionally is essential for personal growth, success, and happiness.

Physical fitness plays a significant role in success, as observed among Fortune 500 CEOs. Exercising intensively tricks the body into believing it is hunting or building, resulting in improved mood, confidence, and kindness. However, it is crucial to match the time spent watching others exercise with personal physical activity. Another commonality among successful individuals is a background in advertising and brand building. Historically, branding and broadcast advertising were crucial for business success, creating intangible associations and generating profit. However, in today's digital age, the importance of brand identity and traditional advertising has diminished. Product quality, innovation, and the overall experience have become paramount in capturing consumer interest and loyalty. It is now essential for brands to prioritize factors like supply chain design, analytics, and industrial design, embracing the shift towards an innovation economy rather than relying solely on branding.

Innovation is crucial for success in today's business landscape. Companies that prioritize innovation, like Apple and HBO, often outshine their competitors. The traditional norms of marketing and branding are becoming obsolete, as advertising is now easily avoidable for the technologically literate and wealthy. Instead, companies are focusing on distribution channels and product innovation. To foster a culture of innovation, organizations should be willing to take risks, reward employees for taking risks, hold people accountable, and constantly benchmark other companies. Startups tend to be more innovative due to their higher risk appetite and quicker decision-making. Embracing a mindset of innovation is essential for businesses to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Being kind and expressing positive emotions towards others is important for personal fulfillment and success. Scott Galloway regrets not being kinder from an earlier age and wishes he had realized the value of generosity and love sooner. He emphasizes that the majority of us are good people who admire and love others, but often hesitate to articulate it. Men, in particular, may worry that expressing admiration or positive emotions makes them less successful or masculine. However, as one gets older, they realize that expressing kindness and positive emotions is how they feel strong and fulfilled. Galloway also acknowledges that young people, regardless of their success or income, need recognition and support. He shares how acknowledging and complimenting the work of a young employee can make a positive impact on their confidence and motivation. In the past, Galloway didn't think to do this, possibly due to selfishness or a fear of complacency. However, he now understands that giving compliments and support doesn't hinder someone's drive to succeed but instead encourages and motivates them to strive harder. Thus, the key takeaway is that kindness, appreciation, and recognition can lead to personal fulfillment and success in both personal and professional relationships.

Being true to oneself and having a relentless approach can have its drawbacks. Scott Galloway acknowledges that his intense involvement in everything may be a hindrance to achieving a billion-dollar business. This realization highlights the importance of finding a balance between passion and delegation. On the other hand, Steven Bartlett commends Galloway's honesty and vulnerability, emphasizing the need for such qualities in today's society. Their conversation showcases the value of authentic and honest discussions, which can lead to progress and growth. Galloway's book, "Draft America and a 100 Charts," reflects his fascination with visual storytelling and highlights the power of charts in communicating information effectively. Overall, the key takeaway is that combining passion, honesty, and effective communication can pave the way to success and inspire others.