Masters of Scale

Ellen Kullman, former CEO of DuPont and now leading Carbon, shares her insights on navigating crises. She discusses her experiences during the 2008 financial meltdown, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and communication. Kullman introduces four crisis principles that guide her leadership. At Carbon, she pivoted to innovate manufacturing during the pandemic, including producing 3D-printed face shields. Her ‘Lobatical’ program showcases new approaches to employee appreciation, proving the power of flexibility and collaboration in overcoming challenges.

Brian Chesky, the Co-founder and CEO of Airbnb, shares insights on navigating the pandemic's impact on travel. He likens the situation to being hit by a torpedo as Airbnb had to make swift, significant changes. Chesky discusses their innovative pivot to virtual experiences and a hefty fundraising round to support hosts. He emphasizes returning to Airbnb’s roots as a scrappy, adaptable startup focused on core values and fostering community connections. Hope and resilience shine through as he reflects on the future of travel.

Charles Best, Founder and CEO of DonorsChoose, discusses the power of generosity in times of uncertainty. He shares insights from leading his nonprofit through major crises, including 9/11 and the pandemic. Best emphasizes the importance of listening to donors and grantees, showcasing how DonorsChoose quickly pivoted to meet evolving educational needs. He highlights community philanthropy's role in enhancing charitable giving, along with innovative employee benefits that foster a supportive work culture, proving that collective empathy drives positive change.

Karen Cahn, CEO of iFundWomen, shares insights on navigating emergency funding options for entrepreneurs during crises. She explores the intricacies of the U.S. CARES Act and how crowdfunding can become a lifeline for small businesses. Karen discusses strategies for leveraging financial relief programs while highlighting inspiring success stories from the food industry. She emphasizes the importance of adapting to shifting economic dynamics post-pandemic and suggests ways to maintain optimism and stress management throughout these challenging times.

Nancy Lublin, the founder and former CEO of Crisis Text Line, shares her insights on the urgent need for mental health support during the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasizes how data reveals emotional trends, like rising anxiety and grief, allowing counselors to effectively address user needs. Lublin advocates for better coordination among social services and highlights the role of trained volunteers in providing empathy-driven support. She also discusses the importance of kindness and community resilience in navigating crises.

Tony Tjan, the managing director of Cue Ball Capital, champions the invaluable role of hourly workers, branding them as a 'hero class.' He discusses the pressing need to protect these workers in the wake of the pandemic, advocating for a long-term vision that prioritizes their stability. The conversation also touches on innovative changes in the nail care industry, aiming for better practices and conditions. Highlighting the importance of appreciation and patience, Tjan draws on historical events to emphasize resilience in the face of economic challenges.

In this insightful conversation, Reid Hoffman shares his expertise as a renowned entrepreneur and co-founder of LinkedIn, guiding listeners through the complexities of crisis management. He emphasizes the power of compassion in leadership during challenging times and discusses the importance of strategic adaptability. Hoffman contrasts retreating with seizing opportunities and highlights lessons learned for future entrepreneurial endeavors. He also advocates for connection and support among leaders, offering practical strategies to navigate uncertainty and foster optimism in the startup community.

Danny Meyer, a celebrated restaurateur and founder of Shake Shack, discusses his tough decision to lay off 2,000 employees from Union Square Hospitality Group. He shares the emotional and ethical dilemmas faced during this painful process, highlighting the importance of empathy and clear communication. Meyer also explores the innovative 'Lobatical' concept for employee appreciation, the need for robust government support to stabilize the workforce, and personal reflections on resilience and community within the hospitality industry.

Matt Mullenweg, the founder of Automattic and mastermind behind WordPress, shares his invaluable insights on thriving in a remote work landscape. He discusses the crucial roles of communication and documentation in successfully navigating distributed teams. Matt also introduces innovative practices like asynchronous communication and personalized workspaces. Highlights include the Lobatical program, rewarding long-term employees with extra vacation, and strategies that foster a resilient company culture during challenging times.

Wences Casares, a pioneering entrepreneur and founder of Bitcoin wallet Xapo, shares his journey from skepticism to passion for crypto. He discusses the challenge of introducing revolutionary ideas and how effective communication builds consumer trust. Casares explores Bitcoin's role in economic empowerment, especially amid Argentina's instability. He also highlights innovative security measures to boost confidence in digital transactions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of resilience, technology, and attracting a diverse global audience.