Mellody Hobson, Co-CEO of Ariel Investments, shares her inspiring journey from a challenging childhood in Chicago to becoming a financial powerhouse managing over $14 billion. She discusses the importance of self-advocacy, navigating male-dominated fields, and the necessity of financial literacy. Mellody emphasizes embracing individuality, the power of mentorship, and the evolving relationship with money. Her insights on resilience and authenticity offer listeners valuable guidance on standing out and leading purposefully in their careers.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Scarcity Fueled Her Drive
Mellody Hobson grew up on the South Side of Chicago as the youngest of six kids raised by a hardworking single mom.
They faced evictions, disconnections, and scarcity, which fueled her drive and focus.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Master Expertise and Simplify
Anchor your career in subject matter expertise and go deep in one field to distinguish yourself.
Simplify complex ideas to communicate clearly to varied audiences, enhancing your leadership.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Test Ideas and Ask Questions
Use everyday people as your test audience to simplify concepts effectively.
Don't be afraid to ask when you don't understand; confident humility is a superpower.
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In 'Unreasonable Hospitality,' Will Guidara shares his experiences as the General Manager of Eleven Madison Park and The NoMad, highlighting the importance of hospitality in any business. The book emphasizes that simply offering a great product is not enough; organizations must also focus on creating authentic connections and memorable experiences for both customers and employees. Guidara provides practical advice on setting expectations, managing teams, and adapting to unexpected situations, all while maintaining a commitment to hospitality that goes beyond mere service. His approach is applicable across various industries, not just limited to restaurants and luxury businesses.
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In this book, Angela Duckworth presents a compelling argument that success is driven more by grit, a fusion of relentless passion and perseverance, than by talent. She explains what grit is, how to identify and develop it, and how it can be grown through stages such as developing interests, consistent practice, finding a pro-social purpose, and cultivating optimism. The book is structured in three parts: explaining what grit is and why it matters, how to grow grit from the inside out, and how to grow grit from the outside in, targeting parents, coaches, teachers, and organizational leaders. Duckworth supports her arguments with personal stories, historical insights, and interviews with high achievers from various fields.
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The Making of an American Capitalist
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This book provides a comprehensive and detailed account of Warren Buffett’s life, from his early days to his ascension as one of the most successful investors in history. Written by Roger Lowenstein, the book is based on three years of research and includes interviews with Buffett’s family, friends, and business associates. It explores Buffett’s investment strategies, his long-term philosophy of buying undervalued stocks, and his role in transforming Berkshire Hathaway into a highly successful corporation. The book also delves into Buffett’s personal life and the influences that shaped his investment approach, including his mentor Benjamin Graham and his partnership with Charlie Munger.
Emma sits down with the number one person she looks up to in business: to Mellody Hobson. As Co-CEO of Ariel Investments—a firm managing over $14 billion in assets—Mellody is a powerhouse whose influence stretches far beyond Wall Street.
She opens up about her early life growing up on the South Side of Chicago, the youngest of six kids raised by a single mother, and how those beginnings shaped her views on money, ambition, and success. Mellody shares her rare career journey—starting as an intern and rising to president in under ten years, all while staying at the same company for over three decades.
Emma and Mellody go deep on what it takes to thrive in male-dominated spaces, why subject matter expertise is the foundation of real leadership, and how negotiating for yourself is non-negotiable. They also talk openly about money trauma, self-worth, and rewriting the financial narratives many of us carry.
Mellody’s story proves you can build a legendary career without chasing every trend—by staying focused, staying prepared, and staying true to yourself. This conversation is full of hard-won wisdom on how to stand out, stay sharp, and lead with purpose.
Aspire with Emma Grede 
