Masters of Scale

Joseph Gramley, a talented percussionist and co-founder of The Silk Road Project, joins world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma as they delve into the art of uniting diverse musicians. They discuss the challenges of fostering collaboration among artists from different backgrounds, emphasizing how a shared vision can transform creativity. Insights on mentorship and trust reveal how adapting to cultural differences can lead to exhilarating performances. This conversation highlights the beauty of building a collective mission in both music and entrepreneurship.

Maëlle Gavet, CEO of Techstars and a seasoned expert in early-stage investment, discusses the shift from chasing unicorn valuations to fostering resilient businesses, or 'dragons.' She emphasizes the importance of sustainable growth and mentorship in the entrepreneurial journey. Gavet shares insights on navigating pre-seed investments, balancing cost management with growth, and the unique challenges entrepreneurs face in times of crisis. Her perspective combines practical advice with a call for inclusivity in the startup landscape.

Phil Knight, co-founder and former CEO of Nike, shares insights into building a legendary brand. He discusses how authenticity and emotional connections with customers were pivotal in Nike's success. Knight highlights the importance of creating excellent products rather than just selling, and he recounts the influence of mentorship in fostering a thriving workplace. He also reflects on Nike's bold marketing strategies, including the rise of Air Jordans and the iconic 'Just Do It' slogan, showcasing a commitment to empowerment and social issues.

Join Julia Boorstin, CNBC’s senior media and tech correspondent and author of "When Women Lead," as she discusses how women leaders excel in today's uncertain business climate. Julia reveals how traditionally feminine traits are becoming essential in leadership. She explores the challenges of tech culture and biases in hiring, emphasizing the need for diversity and inclusion. With insights on the rise of female leaders in tech and the significance of empathy and collaboration, she inspires a new perspective on what it means to lead.

Neil Blumenthal, co-founder and co-CEO of Warby Parker, shares his insights on branding and customer engagement, shaped by his innovative approach to eyewear. He discusses the quirky influence of the blue-footed booby in creating their brand identity. The conversation reveals how personalized customer feedback drove their growth and their breakthrough home try-on program. Blumenthal also emphasizes the importance of crafting a brand narrative that resonates emotionally, while recognizing hiring biases to foster an inclusive workplace.

Mauro Porcini, PepsiCo's Chief Design Officer and author of "The Human Side of Innovation," explores the transformative power of design in business. He shares his 5-point system for fostering creativity and innovation, asserting that design is crucial in a world of constant change. Porcini emphasizes the role of empathy and love in driving innovation and discusses how personal identity and thoughtful fashion can enhance corporate culture. He also tackles biases in hiring, advocating for a more inclusive approach to talent acquisition.

Chris Urmson, a pioneer in autonomous vehicles and founder of Aurora Innovation, shares his journey of making self-driving cars a reality. He emphasizes the importance of setting flexible waypoints, akin to navigational markers, to guide ambitious projects like autonomous innovation. The conversation draws parallels between overcoming challenges in underwater diving and the tech world. Urmson discusses strategies for fostering collaboration, the shift towards autonomous trucks, and the transformative potential of self-driving technology for industries and job creation.

In this insightful talk, Adam Grant, a best-selling author and Wharton School professor, explores the importance of rethinking our assumptions. He emphasizes humility and continuous learning in a post-pandemic world. Grant shares compelling stories of entrepreneurs who bravely adapt to change. He addresses overconfidence in leadership, the impact of misinformation, and the need for open dialogue. The conversation also touches on how small businesses thrive through commitment to employee welfare, highlighting that recognizing our limitations is key to resilience and community progress.

Tory Burch, Founder and CEO of Tory Burch LLC, discusses her journey of building a billion-dollar brand while balancing speed and patience. She shares insights on strategic decision-making, highlighting the importance of timing in business growth and empowering women entrepreneurs. Tory recounts a sailing adventure that mirrors leadership challenges and reflects on nurturing company culture. With engaging anecdotes, she emphasizes the significance of resilience, collaboration, and self-advocacy in overcoming obstacles and promoting success among women in business.

Angela Ahrendts, the former CEO of Burberry and senior VP of retail at Apple, joins Uber’s Dara Khosrowshahi and Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, to discuss crafting exceptional organizational cultures. They share captivating stories about authentic leadership and the importance of transparency and trust in transforming company dynamics. The trio delves into hiring beyond resumes, celebrating intrinsic motivations, and balancing grassroots efforts with top-down changes. Their insights on navigating cultural challenges promise inspiration for leaders everywhere.