Episodes
May 15, 2024
The Power of AI-First Mindset in Enterprise Software
Explore the potential of AI in enterprise software with Duncan Angove, CEO of Blue Yonder. Understand how an AI-first mindset, combined with machine learning and robotics, is transforming supply chain operations. Discover real-world examples of how Blue Yonder's software breaks down products into their constituent parts, forecasting demand with unparalleled precision. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
May 14, 2024
Biggest Lessons Learned from $3B in P.E. & Lending
Discover how Ryan Garland, CEO of Paradyme Companies, has built a successful private equity real estate firm by prioritizing long-lasting relationships and a service-based mindset. Learn the key strategies he employs to navigate the industry and create value for investors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
May 13, 2024
Growing to a $1.4 Billion Market Cap
In this episode, Spenser Skates, CEO of Amplitude, reveals how product analytics provide a window into user behavior, enabling companies to create better digital experiences. Discover the insights that helped Amplitude grow to a $1.4 billion market cap and learn how you can leverage analytics to drive your product's success.
May 13, 2024
Starting GameStop, $100M+ makeup co & Kinkos CEO
Go behind the scenes of how Gary Kusin systematically built Babbage's, which later became GameStop, into a market leader and how Gary led a major turnaround of Kinko's, taking EBITDA from -$11M to +$180M in just 3 years. Learn how he made difficult decisions like closing stores and reducing headcount, while aligning the team around new leadership principles and business lessons learned directly from iconic leaders like Fred Smith of FedEx, Jack Welch of GE, and Ross Perot. Learn more about...
May 10, 2024
Funding the Fountain of Youth
Raising money for longevity research can be a daunting task, especially for founders without a traditional biotech background. Akshay Sanghavi shares his experiences and insights on overcoming these challenges and securing funding for Yuvan Research.
May 8, 2024
The Venture Mindset That Led to a Billion-Dollar Startup
One of the key principles of the venture mindset is the ability to say no to seemingly good opportunities in order to maintain flexibility. In this episode, Stanford professor Ilya Strebulaev explains why venture capitalists turn down over 100 deals for every investment they make and how this approach can benefit your own decision-making process.
May 7, 2024
How Hydrogen is Revolutionizing Transportation
In this episode, Dave Batstone shares his insights on the potential of hydrogen as a clean and efficient fuel source for vehicles. Discover how companies like Hydro Energy are working to convert existing diesel engines to run on hydrogen, reducing carbon emissions by up to 50%. Learn about the challenges and opportunities in building a hydrogen distribution infrastructure.
May 7, 2024
Transforming Procurement with AI
On today’s episode of Innovation & Leadership, Jess welcomes Yushiro Kato, founder and CEO of CaDDi See how CaDDi’s innovative software is transforming the procurement process in the manufacturing industry. By focusing on the needs of procurement officers, such as cost reduction and supplier consolidation, CaDDi has developed a powerful tool that helps companies identify pricing inconsistencies and drive down costs. Learn how this technology can streamline your procurement processes and improve your bottom line.
May 4, 2024
What Ketone Therapeutics Can Really Do
The Buck Institute, a pioneer in aging research, is uncovering how ketones impact healthspan. Dr. Brianna Stubbs, a world-champion athlete turned researcher, shares insights on how these molecules are more than just an energy source. They act as potent signaling molecules, influencing key aging pathways. Learn about the institute's groundbreaking work and how ketone drinks might help us live better, longer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
May 4, 2024
How Did He Sell Over 300 Shows to Hollywood?
Discover how Brant Pinvidic transformed his life from feeling stifled in Canada to achieving remarkable success in the U.S. entertainment industry. Learn the secrets behind his journey and how to present your ideas with clarity, confidence, and a deep understanding of your audience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
May 3, 2024
The Successful Movie Producer Mindset
What does it take to succeed in Hollywood? In this inspiring episode, Justin Bursch shares the personal qualities and mindset that have helped him thrive in the movie industry. From persistence and passion to finding your niche, discover the keys to unlocking your potential as a movie producer. Justin discusses the importance of finding the perfect writers, directors, and actors to bring a story to life. Learn how to assemble a dream team that can take your movie from good to great. Learn ...
May 1, 2024
Redefining Finance Media with Jack Raines
Tune into a fascinating discussion on "Innovation and Leadership," where we're joined by Jack Reins, an inspiring young editor and Columbia MBA student making waves in the finance sector. Featuring co-host Ted Merz, we uncover the evolution of business communications and the role of digital media in shaping financial discourse. Jack shares his journey from starting the "Young Money" blog out of necessity to becoming a sought-after voice in financial media, and now, landing a pivotal role at a re...
April 30, 2024
70 companies from $0 to $100 million
Discover the inspiring story of entrepreneur Damion Lupo, who bounced back from losing $20 million to build multiple $100M+ businesses. Learn how shifting his focus from money to mission and purpose helped him persevere through setbacks and achieve massive success. Damion shares valuable lessons on narrowing focus, building genuine relationships, and creating unique products that deeply resonate with the market. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
April 27, 2024
Scaling Identity Verification for a Billion People
In this episode, Steve Munford, CEO of Trulioo, reveals the key factors behind the company's impressive $1.75 billion valuation and shares insights into the complex world of digital identity verification. Trulioo's platform aims to reach 5 billion people across 195 countries, performing 200 million verifications annually. Discover the challenges and opportunities in establishing trust and enabling global commerce in the digital age. Learn how Trulioo navigates the ever-changing landscape of regu...
April 26, 2024
Financial Literacy for Athletes
In this episode of ‘Innovation & Leadership’, Jess Larsen and co-host Terrell Maze welcome former MLB player Brant Walker shares his journey from the baseball diamond to private equity operations. Discover the key lessons he learned during his transition and how his experience as a professional athlete has shaped his leadership style in the business world,Discover the parallels between leading a sports team and managing a business, and learn how to apply these principles to your own career. ...
April 25, 2024
Inside 1Password's $620M Fundraise
Raising $620 million at a $6.8 billion valuation is a remarkable achievement for any company. In this episode of Innovation & Leadership, Jeff Shiner, CEO of 1Password, takes us behind the scenes of the company's record-breaking fundraise. Discover the strategies employed to attract top-tier investors, from demonstrating strong growth and profitability to leveraging strategic partnerships and celebrity endorsements. Whether you're a startup founder or an established business leader, this intervi...
April 24, 2024
Decoding Hollywood's Power Dynamics
On this episode of the Mini-series ‘Hollywood Explained,seasoned producers Laura Walker Lee and Andy Horowitz share their playbook for thriving in Hollywood's new normal. Learn about the key strategies they employ to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the industry, from developing compelling content to building strong relationships with talent and studios. Discover the importance of adaptability, creativity, and resilience in an ever-changing landscape. Gain practical insights and tips...
April 23, 2024
How to Become an Irresistible Acquisition Target
Ever wondered what it takes to build a top M&A firm from scratch? Jordan Wagner shares the incredible story behind growing Exit Group to over $5 billion in closed deals. Discover the challenges, breakthroughs, and lessons learned on his entrepreneurial journey and learn how customer concentration, recurring revenue, and management team impact the multiples you can command when selling your business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
April 22, 2024
Building an Autonomous Company with AI Agents
Implementing AI in an organization is no easy feat. Today’s guest on ‘Innovation & Leadership’, Robb Wilson, who has worked with Fortune 500 companies on their AI strategies, shares lessons learned from the trenches. Discover common pitfalls to avoid, best practices for AI adoption, and how to foster a culture of innovation. Learn how to start small, iterate rapidly, and scale successfully. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
April 19, 2024
Transforming The Washington Post Into a Software Company
Jess Larsen welcomes co-host Laura Walker Lee and guest Wolf Ruzicka, Chairman of EastBanc Technologies, reveals how his company helped transform The Washington Post from a legacy media company into a software powerhouse. Learn the step-by-step process they used and how it can be applied to enterprises in any industry looking to own their digital destiny. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
April 17, 2024
He is Boosting Productivity and ROI with ChatGPT
On today’s episode, get an inside look at how IdeaScale uses generative AI across multiple business functions as we join Jess Larsen and the CEO of IdeaScale. Nick shares specific tactics like training prompts that you can implement today to start seeing efficiency gains and discusses how to leverage metrics to guide a business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
April 16, 2024
Working on Developing Low-Cost Cancer Drugs
Go behind the scenes of Trevor Blake's biotech companies as he discusses his mission to develop cancer treatments with reduced side effects at lower costs. Learn about the challenges and breakthroughs in his work to make a positive impact, how he sold his biotech company for over $100 million and his unique "hub model" that leverages vendors and contractors can help you grow your business faster and more efficiently. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
April 11, 2024
The Future of Commercial Real Estate
Join Jess Larsen in an insightful discussion with Rob Finlay, a seasoned expert in commercial real estate and Proptech, as he unveils key strategies from his vast experience and his new book "Beyond the Building." Rob shares his journey from founding and exiting five significant Proptech companies to leading Thirty Capital, a company with a diversified real estate portfolio. Rob emphasizes the importance of generating 'Alpha' through unique insights and operational excellence, adapting to the ch...
April 10, 2024
Transforming Celebrity Cruises
Get an exclusive look behind the scenes of Celebrity Cruises' groundbreaking Edge Series ships. Host Jess Larsen welcomes former President & CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo reveals how this $1 billion per ship investment revolutionized the brand and the industry. From infinite verandas to magic carpets, learn about the innovative features that have set a new standard in modern luxury cruising. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices