Masters of Scale

Erika Ayers Badan, former CEO of Barstool Sports and now leading Food52, dives into her remarkable career shift. She discusses the chaotic yet groundbreaking environment of Barstool and how community building can redefine the food industry. Ayers Badan also reflects on the challenges of leadership under media scrutiny and the importance of saying 'no' for clearer decision-making. Her journey uncovers valuable lessons in resilience and the pursuit of inclusivity, offering a fresh perspective on navigating change.

Kat Cole, CEO of Athletic Greens and former executive at Hooters and Cinnabon, shares her journey from a teen restaurant employee to a CEO. She delves into the importance of asking the right questions for personal and professional growth. Kat discusses her experiences managing cultural challenges while opening international locations and how they shaped her leadership style. Additionally, she introduces her 'Hot Shot Rule' for self-improvement and highlights AG1's commitment to quality and innovation in health supplements.

Reid Hoffman shares his thoughts on the political landscape as Kamala Harris runs for president. He discusses the divide among Silicon Valley leaders on Trump and Harris, shedding light on how business interests intersect with political ideologies. Hoffman advocates for a focus on the rule of law as a guiding principle in voting. He introduces the concept of blitzscaling in campaigns and emphasizes the need for unity within organizations, urging leaders to navigate the complexities of political engagement responsibly.

In a captivating conversation, Axios' Alex Thompson, a national political correspondent, dissects the unexpected rise of Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. He reveals the intricacies behind Biden’s departure and what it means for business leaders navigating this political landscape. The discussion also touches on campaign dynamics, the struggle for narrative clarity in the party, and the challenge of capturing public attention amid fierce competition. Thompson provides crucial insights into how these shifts could influence both voters and businesses leading up to the 2024 election.

Join iconic Silicon Valley investor Mike Maples Jr., renowned for his knack for identifying game-changing startups, as he chats with Reid Hoffman. They delve into key insights from Mike's bestseller, Pattern Breakers, discussing how to capitalize on inflection points in innovation. The duo explores the AI revolution, the transformative potential of cognitive agents, and the importance of emotional resilience in startup journeys. With real-life anecdotes, they illustrate the delicate balance between authenticity and strategic decision-making in entrepreneurship.

Janice Min, Co-founder and CEO of The Ankler, provides sharp insights into Hollywood's current challenges. She discusses the summer box office's disappointing performance, attributing it to franchise fatigue and shifting audience expectations. Janice analyzes the evolving landscape of Paramount amidst tech competition and the effects of AI on content creation. She also explores the industry's struggle with content saturation and the necessity for risk-taking in storytelling, all while navigating the complexities of a digital-first entertainment world.

Mike Cessario, founder of Liquid Death, has turned drinking water into a billion-dollar venture through bold marketing and humor. He shares insights on escaping his corporate job boredom and the creative process behind his unique branding. Cessario discusses the journey from punk rock to entrepreneurship, navigating challenges while infusing fun into health-conscious products. He emphasizes trusting your instincts in innovation and the critical role social media plays in brand growth. Liquid Death’s rise is a testament to daring ideas and engaging with consumers.

Sarah Hirshland, CEO of the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee, shares expert insights on Team USA's bold strategy for the upcoming Paris Olympics. She discusses the emotional highs and lows athletes face during trials and the significance of corporate sponsorships. Hirshland also addresses the ramifications of a recent doping scandal in China and how changes in NCAA rules threaten collegiate sports. Lastly, she outlines preparations for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, emphasizing the need for sustainable funding and adaptability to enhance Team USA's future performance.

Renowned director and co-founder of Imagine Entertainment, Ron Howard, shares insights from his illustrious career. He reflects on the pressures of authenticity in an evolving Hollywood shaped by AI. Howard discusses how staying true to creative vision is vital while adapting to industry changes. He recounts pivotal moments from his journey, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and the balance between artistic integrity and audience expectations. Howard's experiences highlight the transformative nature of storytelling in this dynamic landscape.

Imran Amed, founder of The Business of Fashion, shares his expert insights on the fashion industry's current turmoil. He discusses the challenge big luxury brands face against ultra-fast competitors like Shein and the growing importance of sustainability. Amed also examines Pharrell Williams' innovative leadership at Louis Vuitton and the critical need for the industry to balance creativity with business metrics. He emphasizes the necessity for adaptability in navigating disruptions and calls for a shift toward more sustainable practices.