

Skydeck
Harvard Business School
The Harvard Business School alumni podcast
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 26, 2025 • 13min
Crafting Your Life
Leslie Perlow, a Professor focused on intentional living, shares her insights on crafting a more joyful life. She discusses her Life Matrix tool, which helps assess personal values linked to joy and achievement. The conversation highlights the impact of small, actionable changes over vague goals and examines how social media affects happiness. Additionally, she emphasizes communal support and group accountability as catalysts for sustainable personal growth. Leslie’s transformative approach invites listeners to reflect for a more meaningful existence.

Aug 5, 2025 • 14min
Back to the Future
Scott Anthony dives into the intriguing world of disruptive innovation, linking historical events to today’s tech landscape. He highlights the importance of collaboration in navigating the unpredictable nature of innovation, especially with AI on the rise. The discussion sheds light on the dual impact of innovation, using the 1920s automobile as an example of both progress and unforeseen challenges. Ethical responsibilities of businesses in this space are explored, advocating for proactive measures and thoughtful regulation. Lastly, connections between iconic brands reveal the power of historical context in shaping modern innovation.

Jul 17, 2025 • 20min
Play with Purpose
Join Josh Harris, owner of the Washington Commanders and founder of 26North, as he shares his journey from childhood NFL experiences to becoming a sports franchise leader. He discusses the significance of community connection in team management and the vital role of effective leadership in sports culture. Harrison also explores the skyrocketing valuations of franchises, influenced by media trends and fan engagement. Lastly, he reflects on balancing a busy career with family, emphasizing the importance of health and relationships.

Jun 24, 2025 • 16min
The Vinyl Revival
Caren Kelleher (MBA 2010) on why records are reclaiming their
place in a world of streaming

Jun 3, 2025 • 19min
Slice of Life
Bill Crawford, a former Air Force fighter pilot turned pizza perfectionist, shares his journey of discovering his passion for pizza after a life-changing trip to France. He discusses evolving from casual backyard cooking to launching his pizzeria, Righteous Slice, emphasizing the importance of networking and hands-on experience. Bill also highlights how his military background influences his approach to business, stressing the need for continuous improvement and integrating real-world lessons into education for aspiring entrepreneurs.

May 13, 2025 • 16min
If I Knew Then
With hindsight, award recipients share transformative experiences from their HBS journey, offering wisdom for aspiring MBAs. Lessons on resilience emerge from an investment banker who turned setbacks into success. The power of communication is emphasized, especially for young women navigating professional landscapes. A notable shift from finance to environmental advocacy highlights pursuing meaningful challenges. Additionally, the importance of building networks and long-term relationships, as well as following genuine interests with humility, are underscored.

Apr 29, 2025 • 18min
Challenge Accepted
Recipients of the 2025 Alumni Achievement Award describe a time when life put them to the test—and what came out of it

Apr 8, 2025 • 14min
The Working Parent Revolution
Bright Horizons CEO Stephen Kramer (MBA 1997) on what modern parents really want from their workplace

Mar 18, 2025 • 22min
What We Can Learn From “The Oracle of Wall Street”
Taylor Becker (MBA 2025) shares personal anecdotes and life lessons from his collaboration with the late finance icon Byron Wien (MBA 1956)

Feb 26, 2025 • 20min
Joy to the World
How Justin Pasquariello (MBA 2010), CEO of East Boston Social Centers, is making joy a priority in his community—and what his work can teach every organization