The Adaptable Agent

Introduction:

Jason Berg grew up on the East Coast of the US, and his career has since taken him to countless places, including LA, Switzerland and most recently, Hong Kong. With a background in finance and consulting, last year he co-founded his own consultancy helping companies be more digital and forward-thinking. At only 29 years old it’s a bold move, but Jason’s passion for self-learning and constant adaptation is exactly what will position him for success.  

On this episode you’ll get great insight into what it’s like to grow up in a highly competitive academic environment and how Jason’s mindset has helped him break norms and question expectations. He’s also a pro on the future of work so if you’re wondering what to expect in the years ahead then look no further than this interview.  

Show Notes:

0.00 - 02:30:

His first career aspiration to be a musician, but not pursuing it seriously  

• The effect of growing up in a very high-pressure academic environment 

02.30 - 05.00:

• The influence of his parents’ careers as accountants and why he decided to do finance as a safe route 
• Not having the perspective or clarity at that age to break out of the traditional path  
• How Jason is still figuring it out as an adult and why you don’t need to decide at such a young age 

05.00 - 07.30:

• Why having a linear career path is no longer possible and many current ways of working are no longer relevant  
• The notion of continuous learning and why it’s not enough to just get a university degree 
• The new expectation for professionals to be able to up-skill with micro-degrees  

07.30 - 10.00:

• How we’re moving from academic and emotional intelligence (IQ and EQ) to adaptive intelligence (AQ) 
• Focusing more on how you learn and how quickly you learn vs. what you’ve learned 
• Exploring the value of university today as being mostly for personal development  
• Taking full advantage of university by putting yourself out there and exploring  

10.00 - 12.30:

• Jason’s advice to explore all the options out there and find mentors/resources to hone in on your interests  
• It’s not just a paycheck, you have to really enjoy what you do  
• Why it was a complete blessing in disguise that he didn’t get a job in finance  

12.30 - 15.00:

• Why it’s helpful to start thinking deeply about what you want to do right now (in high school)  
• The courage to not necessarily follow the path laid out for you 
• The importance of questioning “what you you’re told” and figuring out for yourself what you want  

15.00 - 17.30:

• Developing that courage at a later age and seeing many of his friends in their late twenties break away from their career completely 
• Growth mindset and getting out of your comfort zone 
• Realizing that you can do things you never thought before 
• Creativity as a practised and not in-born skill (one that Jason is working on!)  

17.30 - 19.30: 

• Jason’s advice to his 16 year old self