#49 James Riley - Life Beyond the C-Suite

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James Riley spent decades leading one of the world’s most prestigious hotel brands.

But this episode isn’t about boardrooms or five-star service, it’s about what happens after 40 years of executive employment.

When James stepped down as CEO of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, he didn’t slow down - he rewrote the rules. From abseiling Angel Falls with limited eyesight to backing mission-driven startups, he’s chasing meaning over metrics.

We talk about reinventing identity, letting go of legacy, and designing a life filled with purpose, not pressure.

If you’ve ever asked yourself “what’s next?” after success, this conversation is for you.

Let us know what resonated in the comments. 

And if you’re enjoying the show, subscribe and stay curious.

Connect with James Riley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-riley-8442011

Connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelxcampion/

(00:00) Why James Riley Walked Away from a 41-Year Career  

(01:43) Trekking Angel Falls with Failing Eyesight  

(08:42) Retirement Guilt: “I’m Still Never Home”  

(10:22) James’ Insights on Leadership and Managing Time  

(14:50) What James Is Focused On Now  

(17:27) What Attracted James to Oberoi Hotels

(21:57) Backing Mission Driven Startups 

(27:54) VoiceMap: An App That Can Replace a Tour Guide

(34:13) Launching a Podcast for Travelers  

(39:16) The Best ChatGPT Prompt to Explore Cities

(45:27) A Pattern That Follows Him Through Life  

(49.07) Durham University Fundraising

(51:53) Family, Cold Swims, and the Next Big Adventure