The McKinsey Podcast

Sven Smit, a Senior Partner at McKinsey specializing in tech trends, and Roger Roberts, also a Senior Partner focusing on semiconductors and digital trust, dive into the forefront of technology affecting business today. They discuss the rise of agentic AI, highlighting its potential in e-commerce and collaboration. The duo also explores the increasing role of robotics in various sectors and the urgent need for energy transition technologies. They emphasize the importance of developing a skilled workforce to meet the demands of the evolving semiconductor industry.

In this exciting discussion, Shelley Stewart III and Kelsey Robinson, both Senior Partners at McKinsey, dive into the evolving role of Chief Marketing Officers. They stress the critical need for CMOs to be included in strategic decision-making to enhance growth. The duo tackles the disconnect between CMOs and other executives, shares insights on measuring marketing effectiveness, and discusses how AI is reshaping marketing strategies. Their mission? To bring CMOs back into the conversation and drive meaningful organizational change.

Jorge Amar, a Senior Partner at McKinsey specializing in the future of work, dives into the rapidly evolving landscape of AI in the workplace. He discusses how agentic AI is not just a tool but an active participant in decision-making. The conversation highlights its transformative role across sectors like HR and customer service while addressing the challenges of blending human and AI capabilities. Amar also touches on generational preferences in customer support, revealing that even tech-savvy Gen Z often seeks human interactions.

Tim Koller, a McKinsey Partner and coauthor of the seminal guide on corporate finance, discusses the evolution of business valuation over 35 years. He emphasizes the importance of long-term strategies in investing, drawing on Warren Buffett's legacy and success. Koller explores how cognitive biases can skew executive decisions and suggests AI as a tool for overcoming these pitfalls. Additionally, he highlights the challenges of geopolitical risks and the need for ethical considerations in company valuations. Tune in for invaluable insights on sustainable value creation!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.