Masters of Scale

Bob Iger, executive chairman and former CEO of Disney, reflects on his groundbreaking acquisitions like Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm. He discusses the art of brand cohesion while maintaining individual identities amid a diverse ecosystem. Iger also shares insights on the complexities of launching Shanghai Disneyland and the importance of employee wellbeing in enhancing customer experiences. The conversation showcases Disney’s innovative embrace of technology with Disney+ and highlights the company's resilience during challenging times, including the pandemic.

In this engaging conversation, Brian Chesky, Co-founder and CEO of Airbnb, shares his inspiring journey of navigating the company through the pandemic's turmoil. He reveals the moment Airbnb faced an 80% revenue drop and how he redefined the company's core mission. Chesky discusses valuable lessons from Barack Obama, the emotional upheaval of layoffs, and the strategic pivot that led to their astonishing IPO. He emphasizes the importance of community and principled decisions while fostering a culture of connection and belonging to overcome a crisis.

Tyra Banks, the iconic supermodel and entrepreneur, shares her insights on the power of personal branding. She discusses how her journey through modeling and television shaped her brand, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and adaptability. Tyra highlights her experiences with 'America's Next Top Model' and how it redefined industry standards. She also reflects on the balance between personal passion and societal expectations, underscoring the critical role of learning from mistakes in successful branding and leadership.

Heather Hasson, Co-founder and co-CEO of FIGS, champions healthcare workers through innovative scrubs and community support. She reveals how FIGS responded to the pandemic by donating PPE while experiencing explosive growth. Hasson likens medical professionals to star athletes, emphasizing their need for premium apparel and recognition. The conversation delves into strategic global expansion and the importance of workplace culture, showcasing FIGS’s commitment to both their customers and employee wellbeing in a time of crisis.

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.