Masters of Scale

Susy Schöneberg, founder and head of Flexport.org, shares her expertise on navigating the logistical challenges of delivering aid to Ukrainian refugees. She emphasizes the crucial role of organized humanitarian responses and collaboration with established organizations. Susy discusses how her team manages complex shipments while advocating for sustained support and strategic resource allocation. She leaves listeners with a powerful message: collective action can be far more effective than going it alone in times of crisis.

Daymond John, founder of FUBU and original 'shark' on Shark Tank, shares his journey from humble beginnings in Queens to building a billion-dollar brand. He emphasizes the power of authentic partnerships, recounting how he collaborated with bouncers and LL Cool J to shape FUBU's identity. Daymond discusses strategic marketing through celebrity endorsements, innovative advertising, and the significance of community engagement. He also explores the challenges of funding and scaling a business, illustrating how genuine relationships drive success.

Bipul Sinha, Co-founder and CEO of Rubrik, sheds light on the escalating cyber threats following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He discusses the dual dangers posed by state-sponsored actors and cybercriminals, emphasizing the urgent need for businesses to adapt their cybersecurity strategies. Bipul shares practical tips for personal protection, from maintaining cyber hygiene to developing effective recovery plans, advocating for a proactive approach in an age of heightened digital vulnerabilities.

Sara Menker, CEO of Gro Intelligence and expert in global agriculture, discusses the significant impacts of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on global markets and food security. She highlights the volatility in the wheat market and the crucial role of the Black Sea region. Menker also examines Russia's trade relationship with China and the complex dynamics of energy markets. The conversation touches on corporate culture and employee well-being amid economic instability, showcasing innovative approaches to staff appreciation during challenging times.

Tjada D'Oyen McKenna, CEO of Mercy Corps, has extensive experience in international aid and is currently on the front lines in Ukraine. She discusses the proactive measures taken by Mercy Corps to support refugees by deploying food, cash, and social services. Tjada emphasizes the shift to mobile money for aid delivery, the impact on global food security, and the importance of addressing humanitarian needs in neglected areas. Her insights also highlight the need for flexible funding and the balance between immediate aid and long-term recovery efforts.

Stacey Abrams, a dynamic entrepreneur, author, and voting rights advocate, shares her insights on harnessing risk in business. She discusses her unique journey from law to entrepreneurship, emphasizing collaboration and mentorship. Abrams dives into the challenges faced by diverse founders, particularly in fundraising, and highlights her experiences launching consumer products, including the growth of Nourish. With a focus on resilience, she covers the importance of employee appreciation and innovative support structures for business success.

Gerald Johnson, Executive Vice President at General Motors, shares insights into leading the company's shift towards an all-electric future while embracing inclusivity. He emphasizes that making mistakes is essential for progress, advocating for embracing discomfort as a catalyst for learning. Johnson also discusses the importance of combining traditional manufacturing skills with new technologies and highlights the need for open dialogues about diversity and climate equity in the automotive world.

Reid Hoffman and Bob Safian dive into the repercussions of the Ukraine invasion on global business dynamics. They discuss the challenges faced by companies like Peloton and Meta after the pandemic. Climate change and innovation are also on the table, featuring Reid's trip to Antarctica. Pay transparency emerges as a hot topic, along with the cautionary lessons from Theranos. The conversation extends into the gaming world, specifically Microsoft's acquisition of Activision, and highlights the critical role of businesses in fostering democratic values.

In this discussion with Sarah Levy, CEO of Betterment and former COO at Viacom, listeners gain insights into the evolving landscape of digital finance. Levy elaborates on Betterment's surprising move into cryptocurrency, emphasizing the importance of integrating new asset classes responsibly. She tackles challenges in investor trust and the need for diversification in this volatile market. With a focus on socially responsible investing, Levy also reflects on leadership transitions and how to adapt investment philosophies to meet modern needs.

An exciting summit for entrepreneurs is on the horizon, featuring leaders like Bill Gates and Tyra Banks. This unique event will blend in-person and remote experiences, fostering collaboration. Attendees can expect groundbreaking discussions on topics from psychedelic medicine to Mars colonization. The gathering aims to unite visionaries from various fields to spark new ideas and offer insights into scaling challenges. Participation options include tickets for first-time entrepreneurs, creating an inclusive atmosphere for innovation.