Most Innovative Companies

On today's episode, co-hosts Yasmin Gagne and Josh Christensen discuss the latest news in the world of business and innovation. Including OpenAI’s acquisition of Jony Ive’s hardware firm, io; Walmart’s likely price increases due to tariffs; and the sale of 23andMe. (00:49) Next, Yasmin talks to Fast Company contributing writer Joe Berkowitz and Fast Company Associate Editor David Salazar about Bill Gates ending his philanthropic organization, the Gates Foundation, in the next two decades, the state of philanthropy, and the next class of billionaires. (08:33) Finally, Yaz and Josh interview Fast Company contributing writer Clint Rainey about Vincent Bolloré and the allegations surrounding his business ventures in Africa. (26:50) For more of the latest business and innovation news, go to https://www.fastcompany.com/news To read Joe Berkowitz’s coverage of Bill Gates: https://www.fastcompany.com/91333066/bill-gates-warren-buffett-benevolent-billionaire-era-over To read Clint Rainey’s article on Vincent Bolloré: https://www.fastcompany.com/91334554/vincent-bollore-restitution-for-africa-complaint

On today's episode, cohosts Yasmin Gagne and Josh Christensen discuss the latest news in the world of business and innovation, including the latest consumer price index report, the deal between China and the United States to pause tariffs for 90 days, and Microsoft’s latest round of layoffs. (00:47) Next, Yasmin and Josh speak with Platformer’s Casey Newton about Grindr and how the dating app has expanded its business into telemedicine services. (07:27) Finally, Yasmin interviews Amber Venz Box, the cofounder and president of the social commerce platform LTK (LikeToKnow), about how the company is handling major shifts in social media and where AI fits in. (26:54) For more of the latest business and innovation news, go to https://www.fastcompany.com/news To read Casey Newton’s article about Grindr:https://www.fastcompany.com/91328918/grindr-ceo-george-arison-interview-ai-wingman

In this engaging discussion, Jim Lanzone, CEO of Yahoo, shares insights on integrating the AI platform Artifact into Yahoo News for personalized content delivery. Meanwhile, Hauwa Otori, a Fast Company producer and founder of Founders International Network, alongside Mark Wilson, Fast Company Global Design Editor, dives into Slate Auto's innovative approach to creating affordable electric vehicles priced around $20,000. They discuss customization options, the importance of appealing to budget-conscious consumers, and the potential impact on American manufacturing.

In this discussion, Liz Segran, a senior writer at Fast Company known for her insights on business trends, delves into Target's recent struggles, particularly highlighting the backlash from their DEI policy rollback that has led to significant boycotts and sales declines. Todd Sherman, a senior director at YouTube Shorts, shares the evolving landscape of short-form video content, detailing YouTube's strategic positioning against rivals like TikTok. The chat navigates how these shifts impact consumer behavior in retail and digital media.

Mark Wilson, Global Design Editor at Fast Company, shares thought-provoking insights on the current challenges in the design industry, asking whether design is dead in an era obsessed with immediate results. Ryan Weaver, cofounder of Overdrive, dives into innovative marketing strategies aimed at destigmatizing drug testing. They discuss the brand’s mission to promote safety and normalize conversations around substance use, while also touching on the evolving landscape of design and its significance in entrepreneurship.

Patrick Sisson, a freelance reporter for Fast Company specializing in clean tech, joins Molly DeWolf Swenson, cofounder of Mosey, to discuss the rebranding of climate technology as essential for national security amid political shifts. They explore how cleantech companies are adapting to funding cuts and changing narratives, emphasizing the intersection of sustainability, job creation, and governmental policies. The conversation also touches on the evolution of social media and the importance of fostering in-person connections through innovative platforms.

Kate Rouch, Chief Marketing Officer of OpenAI, discusses the evolving branding landscape of the AI sector. She shares insights on the strategies behind OpenAI's memorable Super Bowl ad and emphasizes the importance of educating the public on advanced AI technologies. Rouch highlights the balance between creativity and efficiency in AI-driven branding while addressing the need for authenticity. The conversation touches on ChatGPT's impact on younger demographics and the shifting narratives within the investor landscape in AI and crypto.

Mung Chiang, President of Purdue University, is a champion for university-industry collaboration aimed at transforming the pharmaceutical landscape. He discusses how Purdue partners with companies like Elanco and Eli Lilly to foster innovation. The conversation dives into the profound effects of AI on drug discovery and manufacturing, highlighting cross-industry partnerships that tackle clinical trial challenges. Chiang emphasizes the One Health initiative and how academic startups are vital for advancing healthcare outcomes and adapting to industry needs.

Join Ryan Petersen, CEO of Flexport, who shares expert insights on the impact of recent tariffs and global trade challenges. He discusses how businesses, especially small manufacturers, are navigating the tumultuous landscape. Meanwhile, Ben Lamm, cofounder of Colossal Biosciences, reveals exciting progress on de-extinction projects, including the revival of the Woolly Mammoth and the astonishing introduction of genetically modified direwolves, sparking debates on ethics and ecological implications.

Lorraine Twohill, Global CMO at Google, shares insights on transforming Google into a top-tier brand while integrating AI in marketing strategies. She discusses the challenges of launching AI tools like Gemini and the innovative ad campaigns that accompany them. Nilesh Ashra, an AI strategy consultant, joins to highlight how AI reshapes creative processes and simplifies content production. They emphasize the need for balancing creativity with efficient execution, especially in the face of mixed public reactions to new technologies.