The Strategy Skills Podcast: Strategy | Leadership | Critical Thinking | Problem-Solving

522: Former Editor of the Financial Times on the Secret Story of the World's Greatest Disruptor

Feb 3, 2025

Lionel Barber, former editor of the Financial Times and renowned journalist, shares his insights on leadership and business transformation. He dives into his new book about Masayoshi Son, exploring the disruptor's remarkable journey and innovative strategies. Barber discusses essential qualities for success in journalism, effective communication skills, and the shift to subscription-based models. He emphasizes continuous self-improvement and the resilience needed to navigate challenges, providing valuable advice for aspiring professionals looking to make an impact.

45:37

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Episode guests

Lionel Barber

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Curiosity drives journalists to seek deeper insights and enrich their understanding of human nature, essential for meaningful storytelling.

Effective leadership hinges on clear communication and adaptability, emphasizing the importance of preparation in high-stakes environments.

Deep dives

The Role of Curiosity in Journalism

Curiosity is identified as a vital quality for journalists, allowing them to explore deeper insights and uncover hidden truths. This intrinsic motivation fosters a desire to learn more about the world and the people within it, beyond surface-level understanding. A journalist who embodies this quality actively seeks out stories that others might overlook, reflecting an eagerness to connect with diverse experiences. Lionel Barber's career serves as a testament that this relentless pursuit of knowledge not only enriches professional life but also cultivates a profound understanding of human nature.

Intro

2min

The Journey of a Distinguished Journalist

9min

Mastering the Art of Commanding a Room

2min

Navigating Change: The Subscription Shift at Financial Times

5min

Navigating Challenges Through Self-Improvement

6min

The Journey of Masayoshi Son: An Outsider's Ambition

19min

Promotional Insights and Resources for Aspiring Strategists

3min

Welcome to Strategy Skills episode 522, an interview with the author of Gambling Man: The Secret Story of the World's Greatest Disruptor, Masayoshi Son, Lionel Barber.

In this episode, Lionel discusses his career and insights on leadership, journalism, and business transformation. He talks about his tenure at the Financial Times and offers advice to young professionals on how to succeed in today’s ever-changing and challenging world. In this interview, Lionel also shares key lessons from his new book and his research on SoftBank CEO and financial disruptor, Masayoshi Son, highlighting the insights we can learn from him.

Lionel Barber is the former editor of the Financial Times. As editor, he interviewed many of the world’s leaders in business and politics, including US Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Barber has cowritten several books and has lectured widely on foreign policy, transatlantic relations, and economics. He also served on the Board of Trustees at the Tate and the Carnegie Corporation of New York. He graduated in 1978 from St Edmund Hall, Oxford University, with a joint honors degree in German and modern history, and speaks French and German fluently.

Get Lionel’s new book here: https://rb.gy/4svgv0

Gambling Man: The Secret Story of the World's Greatest Disruptor, Masayoshi Son

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