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The McKinsey Podcast

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24 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 27min

What the latest trends in sporting goods mean for brands

Join Alexander Thiel, a McKinsey Partner specializing in retail and consumer goods, as he dives into the intriguing trends reshaping the sporting goods industry. He discusses the paradox of rising interest in active lifestyles while a significant portion of adults remains inactive. Thiel highlights the challenges faced by brands amidst economic pressures and shifting consumer values, emphasizing the need for innovation and sustainability. He also explores the competitive landscape, spotlighting challenger brands and the strategic investment opportunities in emerging markets.
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28 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 28min

Tariffs and trade: Preparing for the unpredictable

Cindy Levy and Shubham Singhal, global co-leaders of McKinsey’s geopolitics work, dive into the intricate world of tariffs and trade dynamics. They highlight the unpredictable economic landscape shaped by U.S.-China relations and the importance of scenario planning for businesses. The duo discusses the concept of 'nerve centers'—strategic hubs for making informed decisions amid geopolitical volatility. They also share insights on emerging investment themes, including shifts in manufacturing and the growing significance of technology in global supply chains.
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39 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 25min

Confronting the affordable-housing crisis

JP Julien, a Partner at McKinsey and head of the McKinsey Institute for Economic Mobility, tackles the pressing affordable housing crisis in the U.S. He highlights the critical link between safe housing and economic mobility, revealing insights on how this issue disproportionately affects Black Americans. Julien discusses innovative solutions like off-site construction and the importance of public-private partnerships to unlock investment. He encourages regulatory reforms and community engagement to create meaningful change, emphasizing that even small actions can make a big difference.
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21 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 13min

Data centers: The race to power AI

Leaders are racing to scale AI, but this requires expanding data centers, which consume immense energy. The podcast dives into the challenges of building these facilities rapidly, the shift in their locations, and innovative cooling solutions needed to meet sustainability goals. It also discusses navigating the energy demands of data centers in the new AI economy, highlighting the urgency for investment and the exploration of renewable energy initiatives. Collaboration and resilient business models emerge as critical to addressing these challenges.
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25 snips
May 22, 2025 • 21min

Time to revisit your M&A strategy

Jake Henry, a McKinsey Senior Partner, reveals insights from the 2025 M&A report, discussing how companies can still find growth in an uncertain M&A landscape. Mieke Van Oostende, also a McKinsey Senior Partner, emphasizes the critical role of organizational culture in successful mergers and integrations. They explore the recent slowdown in M&A activity, triggered by geopolitical tensions, and stress the necessity for firms to enhance their acquisition strategies while understanding their unique capabilities.
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80 snips
May 8, 2025 • 19min

Don’t get stuck in a rut—update how you operate

Join Arne Gast, a Senior Partner at McKinsey, as he shares insights on updating personal operating models for effective leadership. He draws a parallel between refreshing smartphone systems and the need for leaders to adapt and refine their approaches. Discover strategies for managing time, maintaining health, and reconnecting with career purpose. Arne emphasizes the value of sharing operating models with peers and discusses balancing professional duties with personal well-being, especially in a remote work environment.
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61 snips
Apr 24, 2025 • 24min

Quantum computing: Game on

Quantum computing has long been technology’s white whale. But in recent months, new developments suggest practical applications for this elusive technology could finally be within reach. “Quantum has been five to ten years away from fruition for many, many decades,” says McKinsey Partner Michael Bogobowicz. “Now it feels three to five years away.” In this episode of The McKinsey Podcast, Bogobowicz joins McKinsey Global Editorial Director Lucia Rahilly to discuss how quantum differs from conventional computing, what its potential use cases are likely to be, and how to prepare for the highs and lows of a world that could move exponentially faster than it does today.  In our second segment we ask, what’s the most important factor in having a successful transformation? McKinsey Senior Partner Michael Bucy says it’s the CEO.   Articles mentioned: Navigating tariffs with a geopolitical nerve center The Global Trade Explorer Theme music composed, performed, and produced by Joy NgiawSee www.mckinsey.com/privacy-policy for privacy information
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22 snips
Apr 11, 2025 • 28min

The fashion industry faces a world in flux

The fashion industry is facing significant challenges by 2025 due to climate change and shifting consumer values. Adaptability is crucial as brands navigate obstacles like trade uncertainties and changing preferences for quality. Digital shopping and AI are reshaping retail, pushing for personalized experiences. There's also a notable shift in consumer dynamics, especially with India's rising market and older consumers gaining importance. Sustainability remains a hot topic, with a call for collaboration to address environmental issues.
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11 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 27min

When the career ladder breaks for women—and how to succeed anyway

Lareina Yee, a Senior Partner at McKinsey and co-author of "The Broken Rung," dives into the stark disparities in career advancement between men and women. The discussion reveals that for every 100 men promoted, only 81 women ascend, underlining systemic obstacles. Yee emphasizes the importance of male allies and inclusive workplace environments. She shares actionable strategies for women to excel, including networking and proactive planning, while also touching on the challenges of balancing motherhood with career ambitions.
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92 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 24min

Gen AI is here—but where are its users?

Navin Chaddha, managing partner at Mayfield Fund and an expert in early-stage AI investments, dives into the complex landscape of Generative AI adoption. He discusses the slow employee uptake of this technology and its implications for talent management and organizational structure. Chaddha highlights the promise versus reality of AI, emphasizing the potential for enhancing human creativity through hybrid collaboration. The conversation further touches on the evolving role of leadership as businesses adapt to AI, ultimately advocating for a hopeful future in the workforce.

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