Discover the fascinating journey of Chuck Feeney, a billionaire who gave away $8 billion while living modestly. Explore his innovative rise in the duty-free shopping world during the jet age, driven by the post-war tourism boom. Delve into his impactful philanthropy that reshaped higher education in Ireland and numerous global humanitarian efforts. Learn about his commitment to anonymity and how his unique philosophy challenges traditional ideas of wealth and responsibility, making him a true 'silent philanthropist'.

Taylor Swift continues to dominate headlines as her Eras tour breaks records and reshapes the economy, earning her a place among billionaires. The financial phenomenon of 'Swiftonomics' highlights her staggering potential earnings from concerts. Beyond the charts, the discussion dives into her journey from a young songwriter to a music titan, the controversies she faced, and her battle for music ownership. Listeners get a glimpse into her philanthropic efforts, political engagement, and the enduring legacy she builds through her art.

Discover the contradictory world of Peter Thiel, a billionaire with a libertarian mindset who's suspicious of Silicon Valley's 'wokeness.' From ousting Elon Musk at PayPal to his wild ambition for cryogenic freezing, he embodies both genius and chaos. Explore his radical life journey, early tech investments, and the emergence of e-commerce that changed money transfers forever. Delve into his polarizing political involvement, including support for Donald Trump, and the lasting impact of his controversial beliefs on technology and society.

Explore the rise of Doris Fisher, co-founder of The Gap, as she reshaped fashion with iconic basics like the pocket t-shirt. From the Summer of Love to dominating the '90s, hear about the challenges and triumphs of a brand that bridged generations. Discover the rollercoaster of their IPO journey, marked by controversies and strategic shifts. Delve into the complexities of wealth, philanthropy, and labor practices in fashion, while reflecting on Doris's enduring legacy and the broader cultural impact of her entrepreneurial spirit.

Carlos Slim Helú, a telecom titan, transformed Mexico's economic landscape while amassing immense wealth. His strategic investment moves during crises, paired with a frugal lifestyle, reveal his winning business philosophy. The podcast navigates his controversial monopolistic practices and the implications for competition. Listeners will also discover the rivalry between Slim and Bill Gates, alongside the power dynamics of media ownership in democracy. Ultimately, it highlights both his influential role in business and his philanthropic efforts in addressing social inequality.

Discover the enigmatic life of Roman Abramovich, from his humble beginnings as a Soviet orphan to an oligarch partying on a $427 million yacht. Explore how his close ties to Boris Berezovsky and Vladimir Putin fueled his meteoric rise in wealth. Delve into the lavish and tumultuous world of football as he bought Chelsea FC, only to face drastic changes amid the fallout from the Russia-Ukraine war. Unpack the complex legacy of this 'stealth oligarch' as he navigates power, controversy, and philanthropy.

Mukesh Ambani made headlines for his son's $600 million wedding and an extravagant lifestyle. The journey from a humble Mumbai slum to leading Reliance Industries showcases a remarkable transformation. Personal rivalries and power struggles defined his family's path, especially after his father's death. The narrative unfolds the strategic moves that solidified his status as Asia's richest, emphasizing tensions in wealth perception, philanthropy, and economic inequality in India. Can we label him good, bad, or just another billionaire?

Explore the inspiring journey of Patrice Motsepe, South Africa's first black billionaire, who navigated apartheid to rise as a mining mogul. Discover his philanthropic efforts driven by the Ubuntu philosophy and how he balances shareholder interests with charity. From owning a football club to facing ethical controversies in the mining industry, his story is a complex tapestry of success and societal impact. Dive into the evolving landscape of wealth in post-apartheid South Africa as he transitions from mining to renewable energy.

Jack Ma is the king of ecommerce in China. Nicknamed 'Daddy Ma', the former school teacher even appeared alongside martial arts legend Jet Li in a kung fu movie. But how did a scrawny, belligerent child, who was the only person who failed to get hired at his local KFC, become the chairman and CEO of online mega-platform Alibaba? BBC business editor Simon Jack and journalist Zing Tsjeng explain how a crazy trip to America, where Jack had to flee from a conman, ended up introducing him to the internet, which would make him his fortune. Then they decide if they think he’s good, bad, or just another billionaire.We’d love to hear your feedback. Email goodbadbillionaire@bbc.com or drop us a text or WhatsApp to +1 (917) 686-1176. To find out more about the show and read our privacy notice, visit www.bbcworldservice.com/goodbadbillionaire

Discover the intriguing journey of Yvon Chouinard, a billionaire who prioritized nature over wealth. His unconventional philosophy led to the creation of Patagonia, where eco-friendly practices reign. From a childhood spent climbing and surfing to redefining outdoor apparel, his story is a blend of adventure and sustainability. Learn about his drastic decision to give away his fortune to combat climate change, and delve into the ethical dilemmas faced by his company in the quest for responsible business practices.