Idea Factory

Journalist and author of "The Undoing Project", Michael Lewis, reflects on his past bosses. Here he sheds light on who to take advantage of when you start working and how to succeed in what you do. His advice is based off experiences from his 20's when he was just entering the work force.

Astronaut and author of "Spaceman," Mike Massiminio, reflects on failures he experienced early in his career. Here he explains how to achieve what seems like the impossible, as well as how he overcame self doubt.

Joi Ito, the author of "How To Survive Our Fast Future", received the IRI Medal this past year for technology innovation. For someone who has dropped out of school twice, he has achieved a great deal of success. Here he reveals how to utilize the digital age's resources to learn your passion. He also has advice for parents and helping their children achieve success.

Anne-Marie Slaughter is the former Director of Policy Planning in the U.S. State Department and author of "Unfinished Business: Work, Women, Men, Family". Here she shares why her career plan was wrong early on. As well as how to tackle something you are not good at.

Craig Newmark, internet entrepreneur and computer programmer, reflects on the beginnings of his website, Craigslist. He reveals early mistakes he made while starting a company as well as what ideals he lives by today.

Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn, the co-author of "The Telomere Effect," received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2009. She was honored for her discoveries about human DNA, and her work has provided important insights into the body's aging process. Here she shares her main inspiration to keep exploring. Her advice highlights the importance of welcoming other people's support in build.