← Home
WorkLife with Adam Grant · September 1, 2026 · 45m 42s

How to help your people feel heard with Kaya Henderson

Kaya Henderson details how she transformed DC Public Schools from one of the lowest-performing to one of the fastest-improving districts by listening to and collaborating with the community. She explains why you must put the people closest to the problem at the center of your decision-making, how to say no transparently without destroying trust, and the crucial step of establishing shared goals before diving into contentious negotiations.

This summary was generated from show notes and public descriptions, not from a full transcript review. Details may contain inaccuracies.

Highlights

•
Collaborate with those closest to the problem
Kaya Henderson explains that lasting change comes from listening to and working with the people most directly affected – the parents, teachers, and community members of DC Public Schools.
•
Communicate clearly when you have to say no
Even after listening, you can't please everyone. Henderson stresses that when you must say no, you should explain your reasoning clearly and honestly.
•
Find common ground before diving into negotiations
Before tackling disagreements, Henderson recommends highlighting shared goals and values to create a foundation of collaboration.
Was this useful?