In Good Company with Nicolai Tangen

Karin Rådström, CEO of Daimler Truck and former national rowing champion, shares insights on transforming a century-old company into a zero-emission powerhouse. She discusses the shift from diesel to electric and hydrogen-driven trucks, alongside the challenges of implementing autonomous technologies. Rådström dives into her leadership philosophy of 'tough love,' the importance of fostering a collaborative culture, and her experiences as a pioneering female leader in the industry, all while balancing personal growth and professional responsibilities.

Sir David Spiegelhalter, a renowned statistician and expert in communicating risk, discusses our complex relationship with uncertainty. He explores why people fear the unknown and the value of statistics in decision-making. The importance of clear communication during crises like COVID-19 is emphasized, highlighting the five FICON rules. He also shares insights on interpreting cancer survival probabilities and the emotional impact they have on patients. The conversation blends numbers with human experiences, offering a fresh perspective on navigating an unpredictable world.

David Spiegelhalter, a renowned statistician and expert in communicating risk, shares insights on navigating uncertainty. He discusses why we fear the unknown and how statistics can empower us to make sense of complex situations like COVID-19 and climate change. The conversation highlights the need for trust through transparency about uncertainty and the importance of adapting our understanding of statistics in public discourse. Spiegelhalter also touches on AI's role in health diagnostics and emphasizes resilient decision-making in a data-driven world.

Robert Wallace, CEO of Stanford Management Company, has a fascinating background as a former professional ballet dancer turned institutional investor. He discusses transforming Stanford's $40 billion endowment by consolidating external partnerships and adopting a selective investment strategy. The importance of passion over mere financial rewards shines through, as does the balance between risk and innovation in investment management. Wallace draws parallels between the dedication in ballet and the discipline required for successful investing, providing listeners with insightful perspectives on what makes great investors.

In this engaging conversation, Robert Wallace, CEO of Stanford Management Company, shares his unique journey from professional ballet dancer to leading Stanford's $40 billion endowment. He discusses the challenges of managing university funds, particularly in a changing market, and the importance of strong investment partnerships. Wallace emphasizes how passion for the work drives success, beyond just financial gain, and reveals Stanford's innovative investment strategies that significantly impact students and research.

Christel Heydemann, CEO of Orange Group and a transformative leader, discusses the future of telecommunications. She highlights the challenges of competition and market fragmentation in Europe, emphasizing the need for diverse suppliers. Christel also shares her direct leadership style, focusing on open communication and feedback. She discusses the importance of boldness and embracing failure for personal and company growth, offering insights into how these values shape corporate culture at Orange.

Christel Heydemann, CEO of Orange Group and a transformative leader with an engineering background, discusses the evolving landscape of telecommunications. She addresses the impact of AI on network traffic and the need for innovation amidst market challenges. Christel emphasizes the importance of connectivity in bridging the digital divide, particularly in underprivileged regions. With her direct leadership style, she shares insights on risk-taking, learning from failures, and navigating corporate culture in a state-influenced environment.

Brian Moynihan, the CEO of Bank of America, shares insights from his 15 years at the helm of one of the world's largest banks. He highlights how AI is reshaping banking operations and improving customer relations. The conversation touches on the resilience of American consumers, their spending habits, and the impact of economic conditions on small businesses. Moynihan also discusses the challenges of navigating regulatory changes and the importance of maintaining a strong corporate culture amid transformation.

Brian Moynihan, the dynamic CEO of Bank of America, shares his insights on navigating the banking sector through significant economic shifts. He discusses the transformative impact of AI on banking operations and the future of physical branches. Moynihan also highlights the challenges for small businesses post-COVID-19 and the need for stable economic policies. He emphasizes a high-performance culture and the importance of continuous learning, showcasing how adaptability is crucial in today's fast-paced financial landscape.

Jensen Huang, the Founder and CEO of NVIDIA, shares his insights on building a fulfilling career. He emphasizes the power of thinking from first principles and the importance of falling in love with your work. Huang's contrarian view on passion is particularly compelling, as he discusses how love for what you do can shape your journey. He also explores the significance of curiosity, resilience, and mentorship, encouraging young people to tackle challenges head-on and cultivate meaningful relationships for long-term success.