Masters of Scale

Vlad Tenev, Co-founder and CEO of Robinhood, dives into the return of meme stocks like GameStop and the influence of social media on trading. He reflects on the lessons learned from the 2021 frenzy and the ongoing challenges in the fintech space. Tenev shares how his family's immigrant background shaped his perspective on U.S. markets. He discusses Robinhood's efforts to balance active trading with user protection and the evolution of investment practices, including potential 24-hour trading and the company's future aspirations.

Dive into the fascinating world of AI voice cloning as the team unveils a synthetic voice called 'Reid-ish.' Discover how Respeecher's cutting-edge technology replicates vocal nuances while sparking a conversation about authenticity and ethical implications. Hear insights on the potential uses of AI in storytelling and communication, along with the challenges faced by voiceover artists. The discussion balances excitement for innovation with the serious responsibilities that accompany such powerful tools in media.

Ken Frazier, former CEO of Merck, advocates for health equity and social responsibility, while Ken Chenault, ex-CEO of American Express, champions diversity in business. They discuss how campus protests influence corporate leadership, urging CEOs to navigate societal tensions carefully. The duo emphasizes the vital role of DEI initiatives and the necessity of inclusive practices to reflect diverse perspectives. They also highlight the importance of civil discourse on contentious issues, particularly in today's polarized environment, advocating for courageous leadership amidst uncertainty.

Angela Duckworth, psychologist and author of the bestselling book Grit, dives into her research on the essential traits of passion and perseverance that lead to success. She shares her unexpected transition from pre-med to education reform, emphasizing the importance of nurturing grit and community. Angela discusses her evolution into a public intellectual and reveals insights from her upcoming book, 'Easier', which provides actionable strategies for overcoming challenges. Teamwork and mentorship are highlighted as critical elements in achieving remarkable goals.

Brian Chesky, Co-founder and CEO of Airbnb, shares his adventure of steering the company through transformative times. He reveals the innovative Icons initiative aimed at redefining Airbnb's brand, while addressing his personal battles with the pressures of high-profile leadership. The conversation also dives into Airbnb's strategic pivot targeting hotels with a creative ad campaign, showcasing unique travel experiences. Chesky offers insights on the resilience required in entrepreneurship and the importance of mental health in achieving personal and professional growth.

Ron Shaich, the visionary behind Panera Bread and Cava, shares his journey from a college convenience store to revolutionizing fast-casual dining. He discusses how recognizing consumer trends shaped his success and led to the creation of innovative food concepts. Shaich reflects on the strategic decisions that transformed Panera, highlighting initiatives like Panera Cares designed to combat hunger. He emphasizes the importance of curiosity and effective communication in leadership, demonstrating how these traits can drive both personal and business growth.

Cathy Engelbert, Commissioner of the WNBA, opens up about the league's explosive growth as stars like Caitlin Clark make their mark. She discusses innovative strategies to attract fans and enhance ticket sales, alongside the impact of NIL deals on players’ earnings. Engelbert also shares insights on managing crises, including the Brittney Griner situation and the challenges posed by COVID-19. With excitement brewing for the upcoming season, she emphasizes the importance of media engagement and addressing pay disparities to sustain momentum in women's sports.

Jonathan Neman and Nathaniel Ru, co-founders of Sweetgreen, share their remarkable journey from college friends to leading a $2.5 billion restaurant chain. They discuss the importance of community building and local sourcing, revealing how they overcame early hurdles, including a theft that nearly derailed their launch. The duo highlights Sweetgreen’s tech-driven strategies for improving customer experience and how automation enhances employee roles. Their commitment to sustainability and brand culture remains central to their impressive growth.

Sal Khan, the founder and CEO of Khan Academy, discusses the revolutionary impact of AI on education. He introduces Khanmigo, the AI tutor designed to personalize learning for students and teachers alike. Sal shares insights from this innovative initiative and the balance of harnessing AI while addressing privacy and safety concerns. He also reflects on the need for educators to adapt to this new technology and the democratizing potential of education in today’s world. His new book, 'Brave New Words,' is also a focus, urging us to embrace risks for progress.

Jim VandeHei, Co-founder and CEO of Axios, brings his insights on the media's portrayal of division in America, arguing it's overblown. He discusses the shifting landscape of news, emphasizing the importance of discernment in consumption. VandeHei also touches on the implications of AI in journalism and why business leaders may shy away from political commentary. Plus, he shares thoughts on the future of media entities like BuzzFeed and the necessity for trust and integrity in news reporting, all while encouraging a more complex view of reality.