Masters of Scale

Bob Iger, executive chairman and former CEO of the Walt Disney Company, shares insights from his transformative tenure at Disney. He discusses the strategic acquisitions of Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm, emphasizing the importance of preserving unique corporate cultures. Iger reflects on the challenges of integrating diverse teams while maintaining the core values that define a brand. He reveals his vision for Disney's future, focusing on innovation and global expansion, all while navigating the complexities of corporate synergy and legacy.

John Donahoe, CEO of Nike, shares insights on his wartime leadership style that emerged during the pandemic. He emphasizes the importance of listening to the marketplace and adapting quickly to change. Donahoe discusses the role of digital engagement and innovation, revealing how Nike launched new products every two weeks. He advocates for strong leadership that fosters unity and hope, illustrating how sport can bring people together and drive passion among consumers and employees.

Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, shares insights from his daring adventures in entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the art of asking ‘What if?’ and acting boldly on those ideas. Branson recounts his exhilarating bungee jump to promote Virgin Airlines and discusses the emotional complexities of corporate decisions, particularly when protecting jobs. He also explores the importance of diversification, brand resilience, and the thrilling vision of making space travel a reality. This conversation is a masterclass in blending risk with opportunity.

This season unveils inspiring insights from iconic leaders like Bob Iger and Tyra Banks, who share their bold decisions and creative challenges. Discover innovative tools for business growth and the unique strategies innovators employ to tackle scaling hurdles. With exciting guest appearances and engaging anecdotes, the discussion centers on entrepreneurship and the dynamic world of influential figures making significant impacts.

Join Jerry Stackhouse, coach of the Vanderbilt University men’s basketball team and former NBA All-Star, as he shares his insights on navigating the complexities of coaching during the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses the importance of adaptability and transparent communication in managing health protocols and athlete well-being. Stackhouse also reflects on the role of sports in social justice, emphasizing the need for dialogue. It's a compelling look at leadership, accountability, and the emotional dynamics of competing in uncertain times.

Mike Brown, director of the Defense Innovation Unit and former CEO of Symantec, discusses the vital role of public-private partnerships in enhancing U.S. military capabilities. He reflects on the need for speed over bureaucracy in government dealings with tech innovators. Topics include the rapid adaptation of health tech during crises and the shift towards innovative defense procurement. Brown also addresses cybersecurity challenges posed by nation-state attacks and the competitive risks from China's advancements, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and agility in defense strategies.

Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America, shares her insights on tackling the surge in food insecurity during the pandemic. With a staggering 50 million Americans in need, she pivoted the organization’s strategies to empower local leaders and enhance logistics. The discussion highlights the impact of a $100 million donation from Jeff Bezos to accelerate response efforts. Babineaux-Fontenot also emphasizes the critical need for innovation and systemic change to address inequalities in food access, especially among vulnerable communities.

Discover how to cultivate expertise in cutting-edge fields like quantum computing, crypto, and AI. Learn the delicate balance of maintaining company culture amidst employee turnover. Explore strategies for navigating the current stock market and the importance of a robust technology roadmap. The hosts tackle the emotional complexities of entrepreneurship, share insights on strategic inflection points, and ponder the impact of 'Shark Tank' on aspiring business owners. Plus, hear about a chef's inspiring journey in the plant-based culinary world!

Adam Grant, a best-selling author and Wharton professor, discusses the necessity of rethinking our assumptions in a rapidly changing world. He highlights the importance of humility and flexible thinking, especially regarding remote work dynamics following the pandemic. The conversation touches on reducing animosity in rivalries, the complexities of gun beliefs, and navigating social media's challenges. Grant also emphasizes the value of employee appreciation through unique initiatives, showcasing how caring for employees enhances customer experiences.

Rana el Kaliouby, co-founder and CEO of Affectiva, is a pioneer in the world of emotion AI, striving to use technology to deepen human connections. She discusses the delicate balance of responsibly scaling her innovative business while safeguarding ethical implications. With personal anecdotes, Rana emphasizes the importance of empathy and stewardship in tech development, especially for underserved communities like those with autism. She challenges fellow entrepreneurs to consider not only current impacts but also the legacy their creations will leave for future generations.