Masters of Scale

Uma Valeti, MD, founder and CEO of Upside Foods, discusses his groundbreaking journey in cultivating meat, including the FDA's recent approval of lab-grown chicken. He shares insights on winning over skeptics and investors, like Bill Gates, and forming partnerships with industry leaders Tyson and Cargill. Valeti reflects on his transition from cardiology to food innovation, emphasizing the need for collaboration and resilience in the industry. He also explores the challenges of changing consumer perceptions towards this sustainable alternative.

John Chambers, Former CEO of Cisco, played a pivotal role in transforming the company into a tech giant. He shares insights on the vital role of evolving leadership playbooks to adapt to today's business challenges. Chambers emphasizes the importance of learning from failures, effective customer relations, and strategic planning during mergers. He reflects on lessons learned from the dot-com bust, highlighting leadership decisions that fostered resilience and unity within the company. His experiences intertwine business strategies with sports, illustrating adaptability as key to success.

Ray Dalio, the founder of Bridgewater Associates and a pioneer of radical transparency, discusses the power of constructive conflict. He explains how embracing disagreement can lead to better ideas and innovation. Dalio highlights the importance of shared goals during disputes and differentiates between constructive and destructive conflict. He emphasizes the necessity of humility and diverse opinions for improved decision-making. The conversation also touches on the challenges of implementing transparency in business growth and the limitations of AI in decision-making.

Discover the imperative of brand relevance in a fast-changing market. Bold branding choices can make or break your identity. Nike’s audacious advertising strategies highlight the power of controversy and celebrity. Explore innovative charity efforts like the Clean Water Challenge shifting donor engagement to a subscription model. The podcast also emphasizes inclusiveness and cohesion, demonstrating how Disney navigates diverse properties while maintaining a unified brand. Tune in for insights on balancing core values with growth.

Economist Noreena Hertz, a professor at University College London and author of The Lonely Century, dives into the pervasive issue of workplace loneliness. She highlights how loneliness hampers productivity and emphasizes the value of in-person connections over virtual ones. Noreena shares strategies for companies to combat isolation, advocating for kindness and community. She also discusses the dual role of technology in either fostering connection or exacerbating loneliness, urging businesses to prioritize mental health and authentic connections.

Explore the standout moments of 2022, showcasing resilience and creativity amid challenges. Hear inspiring stories from Ukrainian entrepreneurs navigating war, and learn the value of boomerang employees in talent development. Reflect on the emotional journey behind COVID-19 vaccine triumphs and the contrasting leadership styles in the declining crypto market. Plus, discover Ford’s sustainable transformation at the River Rouge plant, emphasizing collaboration and environmental innovation. Celebrate achievements and empower future opportunities!

Danny Meyer, the visionary founder of Shake Shack and Union Square Hospitality Group, reflects on the tough decision to lay off 80% of his staff during the pandemic. He discusses the balance between employee welfare and business survival, sharing his 'Enlightened Hospitality' approach that prioritizes compassion even in crisis. The emotional impact of these layoffs and the establishment of an Employee Relief Fund illustrate the deep care for his team. Meyer also paints a hopeful picture for the future of the hospitality industry amid ongoing challenges.

In this engaging conversation, Stephen Hawthornthwaite and Roth Martin, co-founders of Rothy's—famed for their eco-friendly footwear—discuss the power of collaboration in entrepreneurship. They share personal insights on how co-founders enhance problem-solving and foster resilience within a business. The duo reveals the challenges of scaling, from sourcing sustainable materials to navigating global production hurdles in China. Their journey underscores the importance of trust, complementary skills, and a shared vision in overcoming the trials of establishing a successful brand.

Chip Conley, founder and CEO of the Modern Elder Academy, dives into the shift toward the 'wisdom worker,' emphasizing how older generations can launch successful ventures and redefine their roles. He discusses reframing midlife from crisis to opportunity, highlighting the power of intergenerational collaboration. Conley also advocates for embracing aging as a positive force in the workplace and explains how fostering community support can enhance emotional well-being during these transitions. It's a compelling call for a new generational compact!

Join comedian Stephen Colbert, known for his sharp satire and philanthropic spirit, as he shares the unique story behind his satirical presidential run and its unexpected turn into a fundraiser for DonorsChoose. He discusses the challenges of navigating campaign contributions legally while humorously engaging the public. Colbert’s insights highlight how comedy can effectively drive charitable efforts and inspire listeners to support education, demonstrating that even small acts of generosity can make a significant impact.