Laughter really is the shortest distance between two people. It’s the universal language of the soul.
Behavioral scientist Jennifer Aaker and corporate strategist Naomi Bagdonas delve into the surprising power of humor: why it’s a secret weapon to build bonds, power, creativity and resilience… and how we can all have more of it. Their presentation is based on some of the principles covered in the course they teach at Stanford’s Graduate School of Business.
Jennifer Aaker is General Atlantic Professor and Coulter Family Fellow at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a leading expert on how purpose and meaning shape individual choices… and how technology can positively impact both personal well-being and company growth. Her work has been widely published in leading scientific journals and featured in The Economist, New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic and Science. Recently named MBA Professor of the Year.
Naomi Bagdonas is a lecturer at Stanford’s Graduate School of Business, an executive coach for CXOs, politicians and celebrity clients and their leadership teams, and a bestselling author. In her executive advisory work, she facilitates interactive sessions for the boards and leadership teams of Fortune 100 companies as well as nonprofits. Versed in behavioral science, human perception and comedy, she coaches her clients for events ranging from comedic events to company All Hands meetings and political campaign speeches.
A leading expert in the intersection of humor and business, her work has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, Sports Illustrated, Forbes and Financial Times. Aaker and Bagdonas have co-authored the national bestseller Humor, Seriously: Why Humor Is a Secret Weapon in Business (and Life).
Also see: Rethinking Your Thinking and Time Well Spent