Masters of Scale

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.

Arianna Huffington, founder of Thrive Global, shares her insights on combating burnout, emphasizing that productivity thrives on well-being. Padmasree Warrior, founder of Fable, highlights the need for an empathetic leadership style and a supportive workplace culture. They discuss practical strategies like short breaks and digital detoxes to improve mental health. Their personal experiences with burnout lend authenticity to their advice, making a compelling case for prioritizing employee happiness in today's fast-paced, AI-driven world.

In this engaging conversation, Beth Ford, the CEO of Land O'Lakes and a leader in sustainable agriculture, reveals how businesses can scale beneath the surface. She emphasizes the importance of unseen operational stability and resourcefulness in driving growth. The discussion highlights innovative agricultural practices and the role of technology in improving efficiency. Ford also explores the significance of community and collaboration within cooperatives, showcasing how strategic partnerships enhance profitability for farmers while addressing vital sustainability challenges.

Reid Hoffman discusses the evolving landscape of AI, emphasizing its risks and vast opportunities. He shares insights on his co-founding journey with Inflection AI and why he launched his own chatbot. The conversation touches on ethical considerations and the societal impacts of AI technology. They explore the role of personal AI agents, highlighting the need for emotional intelligence in their design. Additionally, the podcast highlights stories of innovation, including a global motorcycle collective for women, showcasing entrepreneurship's transformative potential.