Masters of Scale

Jimmy Wales, the co-founder of Wikipedia and pioneer of the free online encyclopedia, discusses the crucial concept of product-value fit versus product-market fit. He shares how foundational values like openness and neutrality guided Wikipedia's growth from a niche idea to a global resource. Wales reflects on his journey of trial and error that shaped these values. The conversation also touches on the challenges facing journalism today and the innovative ways to appreciate employees, highlighting how core values can drive success in both nonprofit and for-profit ventures.

Rajiv Shah, President of the Rockefeller Foundation, has a rich background in tackling health crises, including Ebola. In this discussion, he outlines the essential role of COVID-19 testing in safely reopening businesses. Shah highlights the urgent need for a national testing strategy, emphasizing community engagement and equitable access. He also shares insights on next-gen test kits that could revolutionize safety measures. Collaboration across sectors is key to overcoming the pandemic's challenges and fostering recovery.

Susan Wojcicki, CEO of YouTube and a pivotal figure in Google’s rise, shares her insights on scaling rapidly while staying true to core values. She discusses the evolution of YouTube into a video-sharing giant and the importance of clear guiding principles amidst growth challenges. Wojcicki recounts the early days of Google, emphasizing user experience over revenue, and touches on innovative employee initiatives like 'Lobatical.' Finally, she explores YouTube's role in democratizing information and navigating the complexities of content management.

Join Baratunde Thurston, a thought-provoking writer and media entrepreneur, as he guides business leaders on transforming companies into responsible citizens. He discusses tackling systemic racism and the imperative for proactive anti-racism efforts. Baratunde emphasizes the importance of corporate accountability during societal upheaval and the significant influence businesses can have on social change. He also highlights the need for diversity in hiring and innovative collaborations to truly represent and uplift diverse voices in the corporate landscape.

Trevor McFedries, Founder of Brud and creator of virtual influencer Lil Miquela, dives into the intersection of authenticity and technology. He shares how Miquela has captivated millions through relatable storytelling, highlighting the need for genuine connections in the digital landscape. Trevor discusses the challenges of maintaining authenticity while scaling, offers advice for underrepresented entrepreneurs, and emphasizes that what truly matters is how audiences feel connected, regardless of the medium. It's a revealing look into creating celebrity at a massive scale.

Diane Hoskins, Co-CEO of Gensler, shares her expertise on transforming workplaces post-pandemic. She discusses the balance between remote work and in-office collaboration, emphasizing tailored designs that boost productivity. Innovations in health safety, like touchless tech and improved air circulation, are highlighted. Hoskins critiques traditional efficiency models, advocating for spaces that foster creativity and learning. The conversation also touches on equity, inclusion, and the necessity of adapting office environments to meet employees' needs and preferences.

In this enlightening conversation, Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google and co-founder of Schmidt Futures, is exploring the urgent challenges posed by COVID-19. He emphasizes the need for science-based vaccination strategies and testing protocols. Schmidt discusses the impact of the pandemic on small businesses, highlighting both the struggles and opportunities that have emerged. He also provides insights on the accelerated technology adoption during this crisis and stresses the importance of trust and discernment in information consumption.

Eva Moskowitz, Founder and CEO of Success Academy, leads a charter school network serving 20,000 students in NYC and is known for her innovative educational strategies. In this conversation, she discusses the swift pivot to remote learning amid the pandemic. Moskowitz shares insights on decision-making in uncertainty and the importance of communication with parents. She highlights how remote work can be embraced, while also addressing anti-racism initiatives and the educational disparities exacerbated by COVID-19, emphasizing resilience in both education and business.

John Foley, co-founder and CEO of Peloton, shares his inspiring journey of turning skeptics into loyal advocates. He discusses the initial doubts from investors and highlights the tenacity required to push through. Foley emphasizes the critical role of storytelling in building Peloton’s brand and connecting with customers. He also elaborates on the innovative strategies that helped create a dedicated community, transforming casual users into passionate fans. His insights on the unique blend of fitness and tech continue to resonate, especially in today's market.

Shishir Mehrotra, former head of YouTube and co-founder of Coda, shares insights on the significance of company rituals in achieving success. He discusses how intentional rituals can enhance culture and focus teams on ambitious goals, like YouTube's goal of a billion hours of watchtime. Mehrotra highlights the need to reevaluate outdated practices, advocating for inclusive and empowering rituals that foster engagement. He illustrates the balance between innovation and tradition, emphasizing the role of transparency and teamwork in driving entrepreneurial success.