Masters of Scale

Mark Read, CEO of WPP and a leader in the advertising industry, discusses the future of work amid the rise of AI and remote collaboration challenges. He emphasizes the value of in-person interaction for fostering creativity and company culture. Mark shares insights on motivating teams to return to the office, the exciting prospects of 'boomerang employees' bringing fresh skills back, and the need for balanced leadership that addresses fears while navigating ethical corporate practices. It's a thought-provoking conversation on adapting to a rapidly changing workplace.

Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League and a prominent advocate against hate, shares his firsthand experiences confronting Elon Musk. He discusses the critical role of business leaders in fostering hope amid rising intolerance. Greenblatt emphasizes the need for constructive dialogue over cancel culture and explains the challenges of tackling hate speech in the digital realm. He also explores the changing expectations of CEOs in addressing social issues and advocates for active participation in conflict to promote inclusivity and community advocacy.

Mustafa Suleyman, co-founder of Inflection AI and DeepMind, discusses the human-centric values behind AI development. He shares his vision for AI, emphasizing its potential to enhance our social connections and lives. With insights from his book, The Coming Wave, he advocates for shaping a future where AI acts as a supportive companion. Suleyman also reflects on his journey from nonprofit work to pioneering AI technologies, highlighting the importance of ethical frameworks in governing AI's rapid evolution and ensuring it serves the broader societal good.

Aurora James, founder of Brother Vellies and the 15 Percent Pledge, and Scott Harrison, CEO of Charity: Water, share their insights on tackling formidable societal challenges. They discuss the urgent need for allyship in business to combat systemic racism and promote Black-owned brands. James highlights the swift progress of the 15% pledge, while Harrison reveals the transformative impact of access to clean water in Liberia. Both emphasize that bold entrepreneurship and a daring mindset are essential for driving sustainable change in our communities.

Stacey Abrams, a renowned entrepreneur and political leader, is the guest, sharing her insights on harnessing risk in business. She discusses the importance of leveraging networks for product development and navigating market entry challenges, particularly for underrepresented entrepreneurs. Abrams emphasizes the thrill and trials of entrepreneurship, detailing her experiences with innovation and uncertainty. Her new book, co-authored with Lara Hodgson, encapsulates strategies for overcoming hidden barriers in business, making risk a pathway to success.

Eileen Fisher, the visionary founder of her eponymous clothing brand, discusses the power of simplicity in fashion and business. She shares how her minimalist designs have not only built a recognizable brand but also a sustainable future for fashion. The conversation highlights navigating growth while staying true to core principles. Special insights from entrepreneur Daymond John and Instagram’s Kevin Systrom underscore the significance of clear vision. Fisher also emphasizes nurturing talent, advocating for a culture that supports employee growth and sustainability initiatives.

Brian Grazer, the acclaimed producer and co-founder of Imagine Entertainment, shares insights into the power of curiosity as a tool for networking and inspiration. He discusses how forming diverse relationships can lead to unexpected opportunities and innovation. Grazer emphasizes the importance of being prepared for social interactions and never arriving empty-handed. With anecdotes about iconic figures and personal experiences, he illustrates how genuine connections and emotional intelligence can transform the landscape of creativity and success.

Shellye Archambeau, former CEO of MetricStream known for transforming tech firms, joins Sallie Krawcheck, founder of Ellevest and Wall Street pioneer, and Tope Awotona, the founder of Calendly. They explore how to turn challenges into strengths by adopting an outsider's perspective. The conversation dives into the benefits of questioning norms, cultivating diverse teams, and the importance of authenticity in leadership. Their unique journeys provide valuable insights for both emerging entrepreneurs and seasoned executives looking to innovate.

Ron Howard, a celebrated filmmaker known for his ability to create captivating, human stories, discusses how to stay true to one's vision amid constant change. He shares humorous anecdotes from his early career that shaped his filmmaking aspirations. Howard dives into the importance of strong vision in storytelling, navigating creative goals versus distribution demands, and embracing technological advancements. He reflects on his journey with Imagine Entertainment and the resilience required in the evolving film industry.

Join Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google, Angela Ahrendts, former Burberry chief, and Uber's Dara Khosrowshahi as they delve into the secrets of building and revitalizing corporate cultures. They share compelling stories about the necessity of authentic communication and the challenges of cultural transformation. Explore how transparency fosters trust and the delicate dance between strategic growth and cultural resets. Discover insights on aligning talent with organizational culture, especially in today’s tech-driven landscape.