Mihir Desai

Lynn Paine, a Harvard Business School professor and governance expert, joins Mihir Desai, specializing in corporate finance, and Carola Frydman, a corporate historian at Kellogg, to discuss the evolution of shareholder value. They delve into its rise in the 1970s and the subsequent challenges it faced, including critiques of its impact on jobs and the environment. As stakeholder capitalism gains traction, they explore the need for companies to balance diverse interests and scrutinize the implications of integrating ESG metrics into governance.

This week features the brilliant Mihir Desai, a Harvard finance professor, who delves into the influence of AI on the economy. Jason Liberty, CEO of Royal Caribbean, discusses the cruise industry's focus on multi-generational travel and tech advancements in booking. Carolee Lee, founder of WHAM, advocates for increased funding in women's health research, while Kristen Olszewski of Nomadica Wines innovates wine delivery with cans and boxes. Eric Skye from Carbone Fine Foods shares insights on premium pasta sauces and the evolving food market.

The season finale features top Q&As from Harvard Business School faculty on finance, conflict management, branding, ethics, sustainability, and leadership. Insights include judgment in finance, storytelling for brand value, ethical considerations, and bridging skills for future leaders.

Lee Klaskow, a Senior Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, reveals UPS's bold plan to cut its Amazon business by 50%, raising questions about the future of logistics. Jacqueline Hawthorne-Robinson, CEO of Golden Krust, shares insights on the challenges facing casual dining amid inflation and a tech-driven landscape. Meanwhile, Harvard's Mihir Desai discusses the intricate web of big tech investments, suggesting that industry giants may be fueling their own competition. It's a lively exploration of the shifting sands in business dynamics!

Mihir Desai, a Harvard finance professor, dives into the complexities of financial literacy and its crucial role in decision-making. He discusses the balance between debt, skill, and luck, while emphasizing the need for improved financial education from childhood. Desai also sheds light on the importance of empathy in teaching, encouraging listeners to embrace failure as a learning tool. Additionally, he underscores the power of storytelling in finance, illustrating how narratives can foster greater accessibility and connection in the financial world.