Cold Call

Exploring Amazon's role in addressing a housing crisis in Seattle, the podcast delves into the debate on whether tech giants worsen or help the problem. It discusses the firm's partnership with a nonprofit to provide shelter for homeless families and the importance of business in addressing societal issues. The conversation also touches on the balance between corporate responsibility, government revenue, and the lessons for business leaders in community engagement.

Hüsnü Özyeğin, successful entrepreneur, discusses legacy of giving in Turkey. Topics: impact of post-earthquake efforts, evolution of family business, philanthropic focus on education, responsive disaster relief, and integrating social giving into business models.

Raymond Jefferson, a military veteran, overcame false allegations by filing a federal lawsuit. His resilience and vulnerability shaped his leadership style. The podcast explores his journey from West Point to the U.S. Department of Labor, highlighting how he triumphed over adversity with positivity and determination.

The podcast discusses how Paul English brought multiple ideas to market, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing good ideas, systematic thinking, and fast development. It explores his journey from aspiring car wash owner to successful entrepreneur, highlighting traits like scrappiness and innovation. Also, it delves into the creation of kayak.com, leadership empowerment, problem-solving speed, and building trust with customers.

Harvard University aims to decarbonize its supply chain by using a low-carbon substitute for cement. The podcast discusses the challenges of measuring carbon emissions and the potential use of blockchain technology. They explore the innovative solution of using recycled glass to cut greenhouse gas emissions in the concrete industry and the importance of precise carbon accounting in reducing emissions.

The podcast explores Apple's dilemma in balancing privacy and safety. It discusses the encryption system on the iPhone 6S, the debate over contact tracing apps during the pandemic, and the controversy surrounding Apple's delay in implementing child sexual abuse features. The podcast also examines the tension between privacy and safety, Apple's dominance in the smartphone market, and the ethical considerations of data ownership and privacy.

The podcast explores Raízen's strategy of bringing second-generation ethanol to the world in order to decarbonize the world. It discusses the challenges and opportunities of producing ethanol from sugar cane byproduct, the importance of buy-in from stakeholders, and ethanol's role in decarbonization. It also highlights the potential for Brazil to become a major exporter of decarbonization services and products.

SolarWinds responds to the 2020 SUNBURST cyberattack, facing complications and financial impact. The challenge of identifying affected customers and legal obligations in disclosing the breach. Insights into SolarWinds' handling and response, and the commitment of incoming CEO Ramakrishna. Prioritizing customer concerns and implementing measures for cybersecurity and incident response.

Former Best Buy CEO, Hubert Joly, discusses the challenges and risks of businesses engaging with societal issues. He shares examples of companies taking action on racial justice and climate change. The podcast also explores the debate over business focus on social issues and provides advice for aspiring CEOs.

Harvard Business School professor, Raffaella Sadun, and Ferrari CEO discuss Ferrari's shift to carbon neutrality, collaboration with suppliers, and how sustainability can drive innovation. The episode explores the emotional ties within the Ferrari community, balancing tradition with innovation, and the value of sustainability in inspiring industry transformation.