Masters of Scale

Ken Frazier, former CEO of Merck and now an advisor at General Catalyst, dives into the transformative power of vulnerability and confidence in leadership. He discusses navigating life after high-pressure roles and the importance of empathy in post-pandemic recovery. Frazier also addresses the need for equitable hiring practices and the pivotal case against the NFL for discrimination. He advocates for kindness and understanding to bridge societal divides, emphasizing how businesses can champion health equity and foster inclusivity.

Dive into a lively discussion about the hurdles entrepreneurs face when adapting their businesses. Topics range from innovative employee benefits to strategic pivots that resonate with investors. Hear experiences from diverse founders on essential growth targets, as well as tips for pre-seed startups navigating complex challenges. The transformative power of creative strategies in building marketplaces and the inspiring journey of a plant-based restaurant chef add a pinch of motivation to the mix.

Cristiano Amon, CEO of Qualcomm and semiconductor industry expert, shares insights on navigating the global chip shortage with agility and creativity. He discusses the importance of aligning teams around a unified strategy while emphasizing the need for work-life balance in fast-paced environments. Amon explores the impact of 5G technology on various sectors and the collaborative efforts in addressing safety concerns at airports. He highlights Qualcomm's evolution and the vital role of semiconductors in pushing connectivity forward.

Arianna Huffington, founder of Thrive Global and co-founder of The Huffington Post, shares her journey from burnout to wellness advocate. She discusses the critical need for entrepreneurs to prioritize self-care and sleep, debunking myths about the hustle culture. Highlights include the power of napping for productivity and the integration of wellness practices in organizations. With insights on creating balance and mindful routines, Arianna encourages a shift in workplace culture for better health and success.

Rachel Jacobson, President of the Drone Racing League and former NBA executive, discusses the exciting intersection of technology and sports. She introduces the 'techsetters,' a new generation of young, engaged fans eager for innovative experiences. Jacobson highlights how the league taps into this demographic through unique partnerships and creative engagement strategies, including the metaverse. She emphasizes the need for industries to adapt or risk becoming irrelevant, showcasing how the Drone Racing League has turned challenges into thrilling opportunities.

Join Natalie Massenet, founder of Net-a-Porter and co-chair of Farfetch, as she shares her journey in pioneering online luxury fashion. She dives into the resistance faced while launching her visionary e-commerce platform and the strategic decisions that transformed the industry. Natalie discusses the importance of agility, trend analysis, and the role of innovation in overcoming skepticism. Now, leading Imaginary Ventures, she emphasizes the need to not just predict but actively create the future of fashion and entrepreneurship.

Alexis McGill Johnson, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood, discusses keeping her team motivated in challenging times. With the looming threat to Roe v. Wade, she emphasizes the need for relentlessness and bold leadership. Johnson champions equity and addresses the organization's historical shortcomings while inspiring her team to tackle social justice head-on. She shares vital lessons on prioritizing employee needs, engaging in tough conversations about reproductive rights, and fostering innovation within her organization.

In this engaging discussion, Ellen Kullman, the former CEO of DuPont and Carbon, shares her insightful crisis management principles, honed through navigating corporate challenges like the 2008 financial crisis and the onset of COVID-19. She emphasizes that companies should leverage their core identities during crises, focusing on strategic vision and clear communication. Amy Shira Teitel adds context from the Apollo 13 mission, highlighting the astronauts' calm under pressure, reinforcing how adaptability and creative problem-solving are vital for resilience in tumultuous times.

Sir Jeremy Farrar, Chief Executive of the Wellcome Trust and a leading scientific authority on COVID-19 in the UK, discusses key insights from the Omicron variant. He emphasizes the importance of mental health and the need for innovative funding approaches in scientific research. Farrar shares vital leadership lessons from the pandemic, including the significance of taking warnings seriously and carving out time for oneself. He reflects on the evolving challenges of the pandemic and the vital role of transparency and international cooperation in advancing public health.

Paul English, co-founder of travel search platform Kayak, shares his passion for recruiting in this engaging discussion. He emphasizes that continuous recruitment is vital for scaling businesses and shaping company culture. English recounts inspiring stories that connect personal growth, like rowing in underserved communities, to proactive talent acquisition. He also introduces innovative strategies for hiring, such as a seven-day offer deadline, underlining the importance of the first hires in a startup's journey. Leadership through vulnerability and employee appreciation are key themes.