Why do Americans ask “What do you do?” before “Who are you?” In this episode, journalist and author Adam Chandler joins Jesse to explore America’s deep-rooted obsession with work — and how it compares to the rest of the world.
They discuss:
- Why work is so central to American identity
- Differences between U.S. work culture and places like France, Korea, Costa Rica, and Australia
- The impact of social mobility, burnout, and declining job satisfaction
- The legacy of 1950s prosperity and how it distorts modern expectations
- How tech perks mask deeper issues with overwork
- The gig economy, AI disruption, and the myth of “following your passion”
- Policy solutions: four-day work weeks, right-to-disconnect laws, and rethinking success
Based on Chandler’s new book 99% Perspiration: A New Working History of the American Way of Life, this conversation blends sharp cultural insight with personal stories from around the world.
- 📺Watch the full episode on YouTube➡️https://youtu.be/kz3vXtivll4
🎙 The Pod is hosted by Jesse Wright
💬 For guest suggestions, questions, or media inquiries, reach out at https://elpodcast.media/
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