Masters of Scale

Scott Harrison, the visionary founder and CEO of Charity: Water, dives into the challenges and innovations in fundraising during the pandemic. He shares how his nonprofit is on track for a record $100 million in 2021, showcasing a unique subscription model and virtual events. Harrison's groundbreaking Bitcoin Water Trust aims to attract new donors, emphasizing that clean water is the ultimate investment in communities. His journey underscores the power of adaptability and community engagement in tackling the global water crisis.

Michael Seibel, managing director at Y Combinator and co-founder of Justin.tv, dives into the power of asking the right questions for entrepreneurs. He shares personal anecdotes illustrating how pausing to reflect can prevent major missteps. Seibel emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking and understanding customers’ needs. The conversation also touches on unique employee benefits, like the 'Lobatical,' aimed at boosting morale, and highlights the balance between technology and human insights in decision-making.

Stephanie Linnartz, President of Marriott International, shares her insights on steering the company through the turmoil of the COVID-19 pandemic and the loss of beloved CEO Arne Sorenson. She discusses innovative strategies for recovery, including diversifying into home rentals and enhancing loyalty programs to adapt to shifting customer preferences. Linnartz emphasizes resilience and the importance of mentorship and wellness in leadership, highlighting unique employee benefits like the 'Lobatical' program and Marriott's commitment to equality and inclusivity in hospitality.

In a candid chat, two experts explore the volatile world of cryptocurrency, predicting both massive losses and groundbreaking innovations. They tackle urgent cybersecurity issues, likening it to an emperor's new clothes scenario. The conversation touches on climate-change habits and the intriguing notion of a Lobatical vacation for long-serving employees. Plus, hear about the journey of a couple launching a plant-based restaurant, emphasizing the importance of skill development and employee care in today’s rapidly evolving job market.

Ken Chenault, former CEO of American Express and chairman of General Catalyst, champions the idea that businesses can drive social good while achieving success. He discusses the formation of OneTen, aiming to create a million jobs for Black Americans, and advocates for corporate involvement in voting rights. Chenault emphasizes 'social due diligence' alongside financial measures and shares insights on the need for core values in leadership. His message is clear: businesses that prioritize integrity and social responsibility are better equipped for long-term success.

In a captivating discussion, J.J. Abrams, the visionary behind hits like Lost and Star Wars, shares insights on fostering creativity and magic in storytelling. He emphasizes the significance of creating environments that spark serendipity and innovation. J.J. reflects on his formative filmmaking experiences and the power of collaboration, even amidst challenges like remote work. He advocates for nurturing diverse narratives and cultivating a supportive culture in order to unlock extraordinary creative potential.

Explore uncut conversations revealing the secrets of entrepreneurial success. Delve into the innovative CRM solutions that leverage AI for seamless business integration. Listen to successful founders share candid stories and insights that never made it to the public. Discover the raw, unfiltered wisdom behind scaling businesses. Each guest brings unique perspectives and invaluable advice, making this an enlightening journey into the minds of industry leaders.

Jenn Hyman, co-founder and CEO of Rent the Runway, shares her journey through the pandemic's challenges and the surprising rebound of her fashion rental service. She reveals how consumer habits shifted toward sustainability, making a 'closet in the cloud' not just relevant but essential. The conversation highlights innovations in operational strategies and the evolving retail landscape, focusing on convenience and the rise of secondhand shopping. Hyman emphasizes the importance of resilience, both financially and emotionally, for businesses in a post-pandemic world.

Wendy Kopp, founder of Teach for America and Teach for All, is a visionary in educational reform. She discusses the fascinating differences between her two networks, which both aim to empower educators but under varying frameworks. Kopp emphasizes the importance of adaptability and listening to build effective educational flywheels. She shares insights on expanding teaching talent recruitment globally, particularly in India, and explores how networks can drive transformative innovation in education, especially in times of crisis like the pandemic.

Reshma Shetty, co-founder and COO of Ginkgo Bioworks, discusses the groundbreaking role her company plays in mRNA vaccine production during the COVID-19 pandemic. She highlights the importance of responsible innovation in synthetic biology, balancing ambition with ethical considerations. The conversation delves into Ginkgo's diverse applications in food, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. Shetty emphasizes creating an 'unstable equilibrium' in engineering biology to foster progress without sacrificing principles, envisioning a future shaped by biotech advancements.