Masters of Scale

Sheila Warren, CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation, shares her expertise on the sustainable future of cryptocurrency. She discusses the recent bipartisan crypto bill passed by Congress and the necessity for governance in the industry to weed out bad actors. Warren highlights how 20% of Americans are now engaged with crypto and emphasizes the technology's potential role in a new internet. She addresses common misconceptions, showcasing crypto's dual nature that balances anonymity with transparency, while illuminating its transformative effects on our daily lives.

Angela Duckworth, best-selling author of "Grit" and renowned psychologist, and Mike Maughn, entrepreneur and executive, dive into the intriguing complexities of routines. They discuss how habits can enhance productivity while maintaining spontaneity and creativity. From personal anecdotes about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to the importance of morning routines, they explore balancing structure and flexibility. The conversation also touches on listener experiences with emotional closure, setting annual goals, and a new series exploring personality, inviting audience engagement.

Ana Rowena Mallari, Co-founder and CEO of QuestBridge, dives into the transformative mission of her non-profit that connects low-income students with elite colleges. She shares inspiring success stories, including a former QuestBridge scholar's journey to MIT. Mallari discusses the evolution of college access efforts, detailing innovative strategies that have provided $5 billion in scholarships. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, empathy, and the organization's outreach in empowering bright minds to achieve their dreams.

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.