Explore every episode of the podcast Life Threads

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 Learn more: Listen to the full episode and follow the series for more.  Sign up to receive a curated selection of articles, podcasts and films direct to your inbox twice a month at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.london.edu/think?entry=true#subscribeScreen Follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/school/london-business-school/⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/londonbschool/