Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy

Dev Ittycheria, CEO of MongoDB, shares insights from his leadership journey. He discusses how AI is reshaping technology and the critical role of databases in this evolution. Dev highlights the importance of building a strong sales organization and the necessity of disciplined investment strategies. He emphasizes recruiting for intrinsic motivation, understanding personal grit, and creating defensible business models. A strong focus on company culture and talent acquisition sets the stage for MongoDB's future success.

Nico Wittenborn, founder of Adjacent, dives into the world of venture capital with a focus on the 'adjacent possible.' He shares his insights on the booming consumer subscription market, emphasizing the importance of intuition in investment decisions. Nico discusses effective pricing strategies and the challenges of converting free users to paid subscriptions. He also highlights the significant role of innovative design in consumer products and reflects on personal growth through mentorship and gratitude. Tune in for a blend of investment wisdom and heartfelt reflections!

Mitch Rales, co-founder of Danaher and Glenstone, shares his insights on long-term investment strategies and creating a lasting philanthropic impact. He discusses his unique approach to merging art with business, emphasizing resilience and adaptability. Rales highlights the importance of patience in investing, talent management, and fostering a culture of innovation. He also reflects on his emotional journey as the new owner of the Washington Commanders, focusing on community engagement and revitalizing the franchise for its passionate fans.

Marc Lasry, CEO of Avenue Capital Group and owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, shares insights from his illustrious career in distressed debt and sports investments. He recounts his journey of building a $13 billion firm and reflects on the evolution of distressed investing. Lasry discusses the nuances of sports franchise ownership, highlighting economic impacts and emerging opportunities in recreational sports. He also emphasizes the importance of mentorship, trust in investment teams, and the potential growth in women’s sports.

Bill Gurley, a General Partner at Benchmark with a tech investing background, teams up with Michael Mauboussin, Head of Consilient Research at Counterpoint Global, to explore fundamental investment topics. They delve into the implications of AI and regulatory capture, discussing innovations that disrupt or sustain markets. Their conversation covers venture capital dynamics amid major tech layoffs and highlights the need for a balanced investment mindset. They also reflect on the influence of intellectual giants and the transformative power of teaching and writing.

Join bestselling author and podcaster Tim Ferriss as he unpacks the evolution of his iconic show. He shares insights on the art of interviewing and the struggle to maintain authenticity in a commercial world. Tim discusses the emotional dynamics of creativity, the importance of mentorship, and how constraints can spark innovation. He also dives into the relationship between fame, wealth, and effective teaching, emphasizing the value of kindness and personal growth in both life and investing. It's a captivating look behind the scenes of a successful podcasting journey.

Ken Langone, co-founder of Home Depot and former director of the New York Stock Exchange, shares his insights on success and resilience. He emphasizes the value of loyalty and integrity in business, recounting his experiences with networking and employee care. Langone discusses the American Dream and how hard work leads to triumph, illustrated by a former employee's success story. His heartfelt anecdotes spotlight the role of kindness and community support in achieving one’s goals, reminding us all of the true essence of entrepreneurship.

In this engaging chat, Robin Dunbar, a biological anthropologist and the mind behind Dunbar's number, dissects the intricate web of human relationships. He reveals that we can maintain around 150 meaningful connections, exploring how this impacts not just personal lives but also organizational dynamics. Dunbar discusses the importance of face-to-face interactions over virtual ones and the role of social activities like laughter in bonding. He highlights the challenges of modern loneliness and underscores time management as essential for fostering trust and relationships in leadership.

Sean Feeney, co-founder of Grovehouse Hospitality Group and owner of the celebrated NYC restaurants Lilia and Misi, shares his journey from finance to the culinary world. He discusses breaking industry norms with innovative practices, the significance of building authentic dining experiences, and creating community connections through hospitality. Sean's insights into restaurant profitability and the emotional aspects of the culinary journey reveal his passion and commitment to shaping a vibrant dining culture that resonates with guests.

Dave Fontenot, founder of HF0, shares insights from his innovative 12-week residency for repeat founders, designed to eliminate distractions and boost coding productivity. He discusses the monastic origins of the program, emphasizing the impact of a focused environment on personal growth. The conversation dives into selecting top-tier engineers, uncovering founders' true visions, and the importance of holistic well-being in venture capital. Fontenot also highlights the value of community living, showcasing how it fosters creativity and innovation in startups.