The McKinsey Podcast

In this discussion, McKinsey senior partners Daniel Pacthod and Rodney Zemmel share insights from the bustling Davos 2025. They dive into how AI is reshaping business and the urgent need for leaders to adapt to geopolitical shifts. The conversation highlights the contrasting views of optimism and caution from different regions. They also emphasize the importance of workforce health, particularly for women, and how organizations must invest in employee well-being to enhance resilience. Insights into navigating uncertainty in business leadership round out their compelling discussion.

Cindy Levy and Shubham Singhal, global coleaders of McKinsey’s geopolitics work, share their expertise on navigating today's complex geopolitical landscape. They discuss how shifting global dynamics create both risks and opportunities for businesses. Key insights include the need for leaders to reassess market strategies, particularly in fast-growing regions like India and Southeast Asia. They also highlight the critical importance of tariff awareness and the agility required in financial services to adapt to trade policy changes.

Dive into the year’s highlights, where technology and talent took center stage. Discover how businesses are adapting to AI and digital transformation, emphasizing the vital role of C-suite collaboration. Explore the need for caring leadership in tech-driven workplaces and innovative ways to tackle decarbonization. The discussion unveils consumer insights crucial for climate adaptation, while transformative book recommendations inspire a brighter future in leadership and personal purpose.

Chris Bradley, director of the McKinsey Global Institute, discusses the transformative forces reshaping the global economy. He introduces the concept of 'wizard' versus 'muggle' industries and explores how new arenas are redefining competitive landscapes. The conversation touches on critical elements for success, like platform establishment and investment dynamics, and highlights the importance of staying agile in markets influenced by rapid technological advancements. Lastly, the evolution of e-commerce reveals stark contrasts between online and offline retail trends.

Join Alexis Krivkovich and Lareina Yee, senior partners at McKinsey and experts on women in the workplace, as they delve into a decade of research illuminating the progress and setbacks women face in their careers. They discuss troubling trends in diversity commitments and the unique challenges faced by women of color. The conversation includes practical allyship strategies for leaders and innovative solutions to advance women's roles in corporate America, emphasizing the urgent need for systemic change and equity in the workplace.

At the UN climate change conference in Baku, discussion centers on the urgent need for climate adaptation. Experts emphasize how adaptation complements existing mitigation efforts. Current strategies from various nations reveal diverse approaches to climate resilience. There's a strong call for improved dialogue and financing to tackle escalating climate risks effectively. The importance of collaboration in achieving these goals is highlighted as a fundamental theme.

Tufan Erginbilgiç, the CEO of Rolls-Royce, shares insights on his transformative vision for the iconic brand. He highlights the difference between real transformation and mere restructuring and discusses how he boosted profits and share prices. The conversation covers key strategies for engaging employees, fostering a performance-oriented culture, and adapting to modern challenges. Erginbilgiç emphasizes the importance of cash generation and competitiveness as vital components of resilience, ultimately shaping a strong future for Rolls-Royce.

Andrew Goodman, a senior partner at McKinsey, shares insights on how top UK companies thrive. He highlights five essential conditions for success, emphasizing the need for a solid plan to match ambitions. The discussion touches on the role of strategic investments and the importance of fostering innovation through partnerships. Goodman also delves into the evolving landscape of mergers and acquisitions, showcasing how AI can transform processes and enhance decision-making for CEOs during transitions.

The discussion dives into the realities of generative AI, focusing on the gap between its hype and actual value. Strategies for harnessing AI effectively are explored, emphasizing talent development and case studies. The contrasting investment strategies of different organizations reveal varied approaches to AI adoption. Transforming legacy systems with generative AI showcases the challenges of modernizing outdated software. Personal anecdotes highlight the delicate balance between professional commitments and family life in the tech landscape.

Celia Huber, a senior partner at McKinsey with extensive experience in enhancing CEO-board relations, shares intriguing insights on improving collaboration within companies. The discussion highlights the tangible obstacles in the transition to net zero and the complexities of energy systems. Huber emphasizes the importance of diversity and transparency in board interactions. Other topics include the role of generative AI in energy demands and hydrogen's potential in a sustainable future, emphasizing innovation and strategic adaptation.