Good Bad Billionaire
BBC World Service
How did the richest people on the planet make their billions? Find out with the Good Bad Billionaire podcast - now with a chance for you to have your say. Make up your minds whether you think they are good, bad or just another billionaire.In each episode of Good Bad Billionaire, BBC Business Editor Simon Jack and journalist and author Zing Tsjeng analyse the lives of the super-rich, and try to understand what motivates billionaires like Kim Kardashian and Oprah Winfrey.From acting-giant turned politician Arnold Schwarzenegger, to Spanx-founder Sara Blakely, Simon and Zing rate their wealth, power, philanthropy and associated controversies, before asking you whether they are good, bad, or just another billionaire.Get in touch by email and let us know what you think! The contact details are at the end of these show notes.Ever wondered how Taylor Swift went from country singer to money-spinner? How Amazon boss Jeff Bezos came to launch one of the biggest corporations of the internet age? And how six-time NBA champion Michael Jordan made his fortune with Nike? Trawl through the archives to find out how Selena Gomez went from a child Disney star to a mega-magnate of makeup, and how Martha Stewart, the “original lifestyle influencer”, became one of the most successful women in business.We explore the life of British inventor Sir James Dyson, and learn about some of the big names behind Snapchat, Minecraft, Marvel, ChatGPT, Google and Alibaba, which shape the world we live in today.In a special season, we have also told the stories of the pioneers who helped build the United States of America: the world’s first billionaire John D Rockefeller, motor magnate Henry Ford, the aviator and filmmaker Howard Hughes, Walmart founder Sam Walton, and Hetty Green - once dubbed “The Witch of Wall Street”.It's not just how billionaires made their money; it's what they did with it next.So, what do you think? Make up your own mind. Are they good, bad, or just another billionaire? Let us know your thoughts, and we may include your comments and suggestions in a future episode. If you do not wish for your comments, first name or location of comment to be read out, please say that in your email or message, or mark it confidential.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
Episodes
Mentioned books
63 snips
Sep 2, 2024 • 46min
George Soros: 'The man who broke the Bank of England'
George Soros, a legendary investor and philanthropist, reflects on his journey from escaping Nazi-occupied Hungary to becoming a financial titan. He shares the thrilling story of how he made a billion dollars in a single day by shorting the British pound, an act that earned him the title of 'the man who broke the Bank of England.' The conversation dives into the ethical dilemmas of investing, his philosophical influences, and the duality of his legacy, exploring how he balances being a notorious billionaire with his impactful charitable efforts.
Aug 26, 2024 • 37min
Jerry Seinfeld: The world’s richest comedian
Jerry Seinfeld, a legendary comedian and the creative force behind one of TV's most successful sitcoms, shares his journey from stand-up to billionaire status. He delves into his lifelong obsession with comedy and how streaming syndication skyrocketed his wealth. Transcendental meditation, navigating personal grief, and his unique approach to acting are all part of the recipe for his success. The conversation touches on his iconic sitcom's cultural impact and Seinfeld's legacy in reshaping the comedy landscape, posing the question of whether he embodies a 'good billionaire'.
9 snips
Aug 19, 2024 • 46min
Peter Jackson: Lord of the Films
Join Peter Jackson, the visionary director behind the iconic Lord of the Rings films, as he shares his remarkable journey from childhood movie obsessions to becoming a billionaire filmmaker. Discover how his innovative work in special effects led to the founding of Weta Digital and the challenges he faced bringing Middle-earth to life. Explore Jackson's bold decision to film the trilogy all at once and the transformative impact his work has had on New Zealand's film industry, along with his unique spending habits and philanthropic efforts.
Aug 12, 2024 • 41min
Miuccia Prada: ‘Ugly fashion’
Discover the fascinating journey of Miuccia Prada, from a reluctant fashion novice to a billionaire icon of ‘ugly fashion.’ Explore how her innovative designs challenged conventional beauty and reshaped the luxury market. Delve into her strategic investments that transformed brands like Gucci and the incredible rise of her own empire. The discussion also highlights the ethical dilemmas in fashion philanthropy, offering a glimpse into Miuccia's impact on both style and society as she nears retirement.
Aug 5, 2024 • 47min
Sergey Brin: Googling billions
In this discussion, Sergey Brin, the tech titan who co-founded Google, shares his fascinating journey from a Jewish immigrant in Russia to a pioneering billionaire. The conversation unveils his innovative partnership with Larry Page and the dynamic culture of Google, likening it to Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. They also dive into the pivotal role of advertising in Google's success, the complexities of leadership during IPOs, and the ethical challenges surrounding his legacy. Brin's evolution highlights both the triumphs and moral dilemmas of shaping the internet.
15 snips
Jul 29, 2024 • 40min
Tiger Woods: Golf’s ‘golden boy’
Simon Jack, a BBC business editor, and journalist Zing Tsjeng delve into the incredible journey of Tiger Woods, a golfing prodigy turned billionaire. They discuss his record 15 major championships and the transformative impact he had on golf's image. Personal challenges, including scandals and car accidents, nearly derailed his career. Together, they explore the complexities of his legacy—how he broke barriers and influenced future players, while also navigating the ups and downs of fame and wealth.
29 snips
Mar 26, 2024 • 57min
Mark Zuckerberg: Move fast and get rich
Journalist and BBC editor delve into Mark Zuckerberg's rise from Harvard dropout to billionaire. They discuss his leadership style, strategic acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp, controversies like Cambridge Analytica scandal, and his impact on social media and society. Podcast explores Zuckerberg's complex persona and legacy as a 'good' or 'bad' billionaire.
Mar 19, 2024 • 49min
Sir Richard Branson: Sky's the limit
From The Exorcist to owning 400 companies, the podcast dives into the mysterious world of Virgin entrepreneur Richard Branson. Explore his surprising ventures, from music to space travel, and unravel the enigma of his shy yet adventurous personality. Is he a good, bad, or just another billionaire? Find out in this intriguing exploration of a man of many paradoxes.
27 snips
Mar 12, 2024 • 48min
Sir Jim Ratcliffe: Man U mogul
Discover how Jim Ratcliffe, the billionaire behind Manchester United, made his fortune through daring investments and impressive acquisitions. From mortgaging his house for business to investing in cycling and sailing, his journey from petrochemicals to football ownership is full of risk and reward.
Mar 5, 2024 • 50min
Bernie Ecclestone: Fast money
Explore the rise and fall of Bernie Ecclestone in Formula One, from humble beginnings to billionaire status. Delve into his lavish lifestyle, legal troubles, and power struggles in the sport. Uncover his controversial legacy and questionable philanthropy, leaving fans and critics divided.
