

Bold Names
The Wall Street Journal
WSJ’s Bold Names brings you conversations with the leaders of the bold-named companies featured in the pages of The Wall Street Journal. Hosts Tim Higgins and Christopher Mims speak to CEOs and business leaders in interviews that challenge conventional wisdom and take you inside the decisions being made in the C-suite and beyond.
Episodes
Mentioned books

15 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 38min
How the U.S. Stacks Up to China’s ‘Engineering State’
Dan Wang, a research fellow at the Hoover Institution and author of Breakneck, delves into the contrasting dynamics between the U.S. and China. He introduces the idea of China as an 'engineering state' that rapidly builds infrastructure, while the U.S. is depicted as a 'lawyerly society' bogged down by regulations. The discussion highlights China's manufacturing strengths, including the successes of Shenzhen and high-speed rail, alongside America's declining manufacturing capabilities. Wang also explores the implications of these frameworks for future technological and geopolitical positioning.

11 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 35min
Why IBM's CEO Thinks His Company Can Crack Quantum Computing
Arvind Krishna, CEO of IBM, has been at the forefront of the company's resurgence, focusing on hybrid cloud and AI. In this discussion, he shares IBM's bold ambitions in quantum computing and the competitive race against giants like Microsoft and Google. Krishna reflects on past lessons from Watson AI, emphasizing the cautious optimism needed in quantum technology. He dives into IBM's innovative strategies to overcome challenges in building reliable quantum systems and how these advancements could transform various industries.

Sep 5, 2025 • 3min
Bold Names Is Back
Join engaging discussions with influential voices as they tackle the evolving challenges in tech and business. Discover how humor plays a role in embracing change during a quirky office step challenge. There’s also talk about exciting plans for a vibrant return to YouTube. Insightful, entertaining, and packed with real-world relevance, this is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and innovation.

19 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 48min
From AI and Defense Tech, to Tariffs and the New Streaming Wars: The Best of Bold Names
Dive into the intriguing world of AI and humanoid robots as experts share insights on emerging technologies. Discover how tariffs are reshaping global supply chains and the economic landscape amid geopolitical shifts. Explore the booming online sports betting market and its transformative effects. Plus, get a glimpse into the digital age's impact on entertainment and the need for regulation. Reflect on the evolving entrepreneurial spirit in tech, with tales from venture capitalists and industry leaders.

19 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 50min
Space Trucks: One Startup’s Plan to Get the U.S. Back on the Moon
Justin Cyrus, Founder and CEO of Lunar Outpost, discusses the exciting prospects of lunar exploration as one of NASA's selected companies for a lunar terrain vehicle. He highlights the potential for a bustling lunar economy, including resource mining for critical minerals. The podcast dives into the competitive landscape with Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, tackles the challenges of establishing sustainable bases on the moon, and addresses geopolitical dynamics in space exploration. Cyrus envisions Lunar Outpost as the backbone of lunar mobility in this new frontier.

24 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 47min
How Tubi Is Coming for Netflix and YouTube in the New Streaming Wars
Anjali Sud, CEO of Tubi and a dynamic leader aiming to democratize storytelling, talks about bringing a free ad-supported streaming service to the forefront. She reveals how Tubi is thriving against giants like Netflix, focusing on engaging niche audiences and expanding the definition of quality content. The discussion includes the effects of the Fox acquisition, the rise of original productions, and the changing preferences of Gen Z viewers. Sud emphasizes Tubi's commitment to diverse storytelling and its vision for a new generation of Hollywood talent.

34 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 41min
Are AI Agents the Future of Business? Salesforce Is Betting $8 Billion on It
Amit Walia, CEO of Informatica and a leader in data management solutions, dives into the exciting world of AI and its transformative potential for businesses. He discusses Informatica's pivotal role in helping major corporations like Toyota handle massive data and Salesforce's groundbreaking $8 billion acquisition of the company. Walia highlights the challenges organizations face in AI adoption and emphasizes the importance of proper data infrastructure. Tune in for insights on navigating the hype around AI and the future of personalized customer interactions!

Jul 18, 2025 • 41min
Encore: Could Amazon’s Zoox Beat Tesla and Waymo in the Robotaxi Race?
Aicha Evans, CEO of Zoox and former Intel executive, shares insights on Zoox's ambitious plans to disrupt the robotaxi market with Amazon's backing. She discusses the company's unique vehicle design that resembles a lounge and highlights the challenges of ensuring safety and trust in autonomous technology. Evans also dives into the competitive landscape against Tesla and Waymo, emphasizing the need for collaboration and transparency. With families as potential new customers, she explores the importance of communicating the safety and reliability of robotaxi services.

10 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 41min
Tariffs, EVs and China: A CEO Insider’s View of the Car Business
Swamy Kotagiri, CEO of Magna International and a key player in North America's automotive parts sector, shares invaluable insights into the industry's turbulent landscape. He discusses how tariffs and trade conflicts are reshaping strategies for traditional automakers. The conversation dives into the challenges posed by rising competition from Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers and the importance of innovation in adapting to consumer shifts. Kotagiri highlights the need for seamless integration between electric vehicles and autonomous technology to build public trust.

16 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 35min
Why José Andrés Says We Need Leaders Who Believe in ‘Longer Tables’
José Andrés, the celebrity chef and humanitarian known for his work with World Central Kitchen, discusses his latest book and the importance of 'longer tables' as a solution to societal issues. He shares insights on how lessons from restaurant chaos help in crisis management, emphasizing adaptability during emergencies. Andrés advocates for direct involvement in humanitarian aid, highlighting food's unifying power amid conflict. He also addresses concerns regarding FEMA's preparedness and explores how culinary advocacy can drive social change and sustainable food practices.