Worklife with Adam Grant Chobani CEO Hamdi Ulukaya’s “Anti-CEO Playbook”
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Jun 20, 2023 Hamdi Ulukaya, the inspiring founder and CEO of Chobani, shares his remarkable journey from a nomadic Kurdish upbringing to leading a thriving yogurt brand. He discusses his unique 'anti-CEO playbook,' which prioritizes people over profit and redefines the role of business in society. Ulukaya emphasizes the integration of refugees into the workforce, the power of emotional leadership, and lessons learned from crises like the Turkish earthquake. His story is a powerful reminder of resilience and the potential for business to drive social change.
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Hamdi's Journey
- Hamdi Ulukaya's journey to becoming Chobani's CEO began in a Kurdish tribe in Turkey.
- After facing political trouble, a stranger's suggestion led him to the U.S. with $3,000 and little English.
Early Years in the U.S.
- Arriving in New York with little money and no English, Hamdi felt overwhelmed and scared.
- Despite his fear, his curiosity and comfort with the unknown led him to upstate New York, where he eventually bought a yogurt plant.
Planning vs. Adapting
- Adam Grant suggests that planning is a useful exercise, but rigid plans can be unhelpful.
- Hamdi agrees, emphasizing adapting to reality and embracing possibilities, much like his nomadic upbringing.
