How I Built This with Guy Raz
Guy Raz | Wondery
Guy Raz interviews the world’s best-known entrepreneurs to learn how they built their iconic brands. In each episode, founders reveal deep, intimate moments of doubt and failure, and share insights on their eventual success. How I Built This is a master-class on innovation, creativity, leadership and how to navigate challenges of all kinds.New episodes release on Mondays and Thursdays. Listen to How I Built This on the Wondery App or wherever you listen to your podcasts. You can listen early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/how-i-built-this now. Get your How I Built This merch at WonderyShop.com/HowIBuiltThis.
Episodes
Mentioned books
25 snips
Feb 27, 2023 • 1h 20min
Politico & Axios: Jim VandeHei
Jim VandeHei, co-founder of Politico and Axios, reflects on his journey from managing a night shift at Little Caesar's to reshaping political journalism. He discusses the challenges of launching Politico and the innovative strategies behind Axios, emphasizing the shift towards concise, impactful reporting. VandeHei shares the serendipitous partnerships that fueled his ventures and the pivotal decision to embrace independence. The conversation reveals key insights into the evolving media landscape and the importance of quality journalism amidst significant industry changes.
18 snips
Feb 23, 2023 • 40min
HIBT Lab! Boom Supersonic: Blake Scholl
Blake Scholl, Founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic, is on a mission to revive commercial supersonic flight, aiming to break barriers that have held back the industry since the Concorde. He discusses his transformation from tech entrepreneur to aviation leader, emphasizing innovation and economic viability. Blake shares insights on the development of the new Overture aircraft, highlighting its advantages like passenger comfort and sustainability. He also reflects on overcoming challenges in aircraft design, promising a revolution in air travel by 2029.
22 snips
Feb 20, 2023 • 60min
Osprey Packs: Mike Pfotenhauer
Mike Pfotenhauer, founder of Osprey Packs, turned a passion for design into a global outdoor brand. He shares how his bespoke backpacks evolved from his Santa Cruz shop in the 1970s to encompass innovative designs. Mike recounts overcoming production challenges, relocating to Colorado and then to Southeast Asia, while grappling with the emotional impacts on local workers. He reflects on transformative experiences, including meaningful interactions with the Navajo community, and the proud journey of building a multimillion-dollar enterprise driven by quality and craftsmanship.
128 snips
Feb 16, 2023 • 59min
ICYMI... HIBT Lab! OpenAI: Sam Altman
Sam Altman, Co-founder and CEO of OpenAI and former president of Y Combinator, shares his remarkable journey from a tech-savvy teenager to a leader in AI. He discusses the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, the mission behind OpenAI, and the dual-use dilemma of AI tech. Sam emphasizes the importance of responsibility and collective input in AI development, all while balancing innovation with safety. Tune in for insights on the future of AI and its profound impact on various fields, from creativity to employment.
10 snips
Feb 13, 2023 • 1h 21min
The Ringer: Bill Simmons
Bill Simmons, founder of The Ringer and former ESPN star, discusses his journey from sports writer to media mogul. He shares the challenges of launching new media projects like '30 for 30' and his transition to entrepreneurship. The conversation also humorously tackles Hall of Fame controversies, reflecting on the complex dynamics of sports and cheating. Simmons highlights the evolution of sports journalism, the rise of podcasting, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling, all while navigating the highs and lows of a competitive industry.
Feb 9, 2023 • 37min
HIBT Lab! Biobot Analytics: Mariana Matus and Newsha Ghaeli
Mariana Matus and Newsha Ghaeli, co-founders of Biobot Analytics, are revolutionizing public health with innovative wastewater analysis. Mariana, a computational biologist from Mexico, and Newsha, an architect from Canada, share how their unique backgrounds led them to uncover vital health indicators in sewage. They discuss detecting disease spikes, including COVID-19, and envision transforming wastewater facilities into data hubs to enhance urban health strategies. Join them as they explore future-proofing cities with smart infrastructure and leveraging data for the greater good.
23 snips
Feb 6, 2023 • 56min
Zumiez: Tom Campion
Tom Campion, co-founder of Zumiez and a retail management expert, shares his journey from JCPenney to creating the world's largest action sports retailer. He discusses the importance of inventory management and adapting to market trends, especially during the rise of skate culture. Tom highlights the strategic shift from general apparel to action sports wear, emphasizing the need for resilience in a competitive landscape. With insights into the unique store atmosphere and a commitment to sustainability, he reflects on building a brand that resonates with the youth.
4 snips
Feb 2, 2023 • 36min
HIBT Lab! The Sioux Chef: Sean Sherman
Chef Sean Sherman, an Oglala Lakota Sioux, is on a mission to revive Native American cuisine by using indigenous ingredients. He shares his transformation from childhood experiences with processed foods on a reservation to exploring culinary traditions. Sean discusses the challenges of food access and health issues within Native communities. He highlights the importance of using heirloom varieties, foraged plants, and native animals. His venture, The Sioux Chef, celebrates and modernizes these culinary practices, culminating in the award-winning restaurant Owamni.
19 snips
Jan 30, 2023 • 1h 25min
Chomps: Pete Maldonado and Rashid Ali
Pete Maldonado and Rashid Ali, co-founders of Chomps, share their inspiring journey from failure to success in the meat snack industry. After bankruptcy, Pete pivoted from selling steaks to creating healthier meat sticks tailored for the health-conscious market. They highlight a game-changing order from Trader Joe's that catapulted their brand into major retailers, along with the challenges of scaling production while maintaining quality. Their resilience and innovative thinking turned Chomps into a $100 million success story.
4 snips
Jan 26, 2023 • 43min
HIBT Lab! Osmo Salt: Nick DiGiovanni
Nick DiGiovanni, a chef, internet personality, and founder of Osmo, captivates audiences with his culinary prowess and over-the-top food creations. He shares fascinating tales of setting Guinness World Records for the largest chicken nugget and sushi roll. Struggling with shyness, he chose to embrace his role in front of the camera instead of attending Harvard Business School. The conversation dives into his work-life balance challenges and exciting future ambitions, including plans for a restaurant and a debut cookbook.
