Masters of Scale: Rapid Response

Sports business has never had higher stakes—for every league, every team, every streaming service, and every player. Sarah Spain, host of the podcast Good Game with Sarah Spain, longtime ESPN personality and sports journalist, joins Rapid Response to unpack the complexities behind the WNBA's mainstream moment, the future of ESPN's streaming, and the looming legal settlement that could transform college athletics forever. She argues that the men's playbook isn't the way forward for pro women's leagues and breaks down how culture is key to any winning strategy—from the locker room to the C-suite.You can find Sarah's new book Runs in the Family here.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fresh off a successful Memorial Day weekend, fuelled by excitement around Mission Impossible and Lilo & Stitch, Hollywood anticipates a season of surprising blockbusters and bold bets from studios hungry for a hit. The Ankler's CEO Janice Min returns to Rapid Response to peel back the curtain on Disney's gripe with Youtube, Netflix's revamped homepage, and Google's jaw-dropping AI video creator. Plus, Min explores the mounting pressure plaguing Warner Brothers Discovery – from Trump's attacks on 60 Minutes and CBS News, to a rebranding U-turn at HBO Max. Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OLIPOP's surging popularity has taken the $60 billion soda industry by storm. As Gen Z and millennials ditch sugary sodas, OLIPOP is leading the pre-biotic beverage trend, sparking the likes of Coca Cola and PepsiCo to enter the fray. OLIPOP's co-founder, CEO and formulator, Ben Goodwin, joins Rapid Response to share how the brand is navigating the turbulence of rapid growth and rising competition, what leadership lessons he's had to embrace along the way, and whether healthy soda is actually healthy or just a TikTok-fueled fad.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the global migrant crisis continues to dominate our airwaves, Welcome.US has triggered a dramatic impact on US immigration, resettling 800,000 refugees across all 50 states. The organization's co-founder and CEO, Nazanin Ash, joins Rapid Response to share how her team developed an effective and efficient model, unlocking a nonpartisan, corporate-backed community of 2 million volunteers. Welcome.US is a story of both business innovation and human inspiration.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The buzz in Silicon Valley around AI agents has many asking: What's real and what's hype? Box's co-founder and CEO, Aaron Levie, joins Rapid Response to help decipher between fact and fiction, taking listeners inside the fast-paced evolution of agents and its impact on the future of enterprise AI. Plus, Levie unpacks how AI is really being adopted in the workplace, what it takes to legitimately build an AI-first organization, and what political leaders across both parties misunderstand about creating the best environment for technology to thrive.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Higher education is the latest victim of the culture wars. At prestigious institutions like Harvard and Columbia, the Trump administration is cracking down on research budgets amid accusations of antisemitism on campus. Evan Goldstein, managing editor at The Chronicle of Higher Education, joins Rapid Response to reveal what's really driving the attacks — and why colleges have struggled to present a united defense. Goldstein unpacks the deeper political motives, the economic consequences for colleges, and what's at stake for the future of education.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Amid polarization, AI disruption, and eroding trust in institutions, retired four-star general, Stanley McChrystal, argues that what leaders need now more than ever, is character. Head of the business consulting firm McChrystal Group, Gen. McChrystal returns to Rapid Response to discuss his new book on the subject of character. From AI ethics and modern warfare to hot-button issues like Signalgate and transgender service in the military, McChrystal explains why character is the foundation of lasting leadership. Drawing from decades of experience, he urges today's leaders to start standing up for what matters and “be not afraid”.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/More details about On Character: Choices that Define a Life here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The rideshare market has reached a crossroads. Autonomous vehicles are on the rise, driver unrest is mounting, and customers are questioning everything from pricing to trust and safety. In the midst of it all, Lyft is mounting a comeback. CEO David Risher, who took over the wheel at Lyft two years ago, is pushing to reposition the company squarely against Uber — with faster execution, bold new programs, and Lyft's biggest international acquisition to date. A former Amazon executive, Risher isn't shy about calling out the “enshittification” of tech platforms, or borrowing a few lessons from Jeff Bezos. He joins Rapid Response to unpack his high-speed strategy and explain why Lyft's comeback story is just getting started.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When Elon Musk stepped into the White House spotlight and brought his DOGE chainsaw, no one was better poised to cover the fallout than WIRED. The tech journalism outlet knew Musk's playbook from the get-go, from years of covering his companies and his takeover of Twitter. WIRED's Global Editorial Director Katie Drummond joins Rapid Response to take us inside Musk's transformative, head-spinning time at President Trump's side thus far. Drummond weighs the lasting impact of DOGE's efforts 100 days in, and says that even as Musk announces plans to step back from politics, we can still expect plenty more to come.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

News coverage about drones often focuses on warfare, but the impact of this evolving technology is far broader. Zipline's co-founder and CEO Keller Cliffton joins Rapid Response to chart the company's recent expansion from transporting blood for life-saving transfusions in Rwanda, to retail deliveries across eight countries — including high-profile partnerships with the likes of Walmart, Chipotle, Panera, and the Mayo Clinic. Zipline's do-good health efforts and commercial deliveries are all part of Cliffton's vision for a radical, new transportation network. As we look to understand the societal impacts of AI and autonomy, Zipline is a case study in what's possible for a future of consumers hungry for accessibility and speed. Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In his return to Rapid Response, the billionaire entrepreneur, NBA owner, and CEO of Wonder, Marc Lore, told us he plans all his meals with AI – and he loves it. It's just one part of his vision for transforming our relationship to food and health. His start-up Wonder has already acquired Blue Apron, Grubhub, and the media brand Tastemade, and he shares how that's all laddering up to a superapp for meal time. Plus, while many businesses are raising prices in the face of today's volatility, Marc reveals why he's taking the bold step to lower them.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A great manager can make a person feel more satisfied and included at work. But a bad manager can cost a company lots of time and resources — even driving away valuable talent. Katherine von Jan is building a better manager, powered by AI. As CEO and co-founder of Tough Day, von Jan is building AI management tools tailored for the future of work. Tough Day might handle basic questions about PTO, but also step-in around sensitive issues like workplace conflict. In this episode of Pioneers of AI with host Dr. Rana el Kaliouby, hear why AI is poised to redefine middle management, ushering in an era of “un-bossing”.Learn more about Pioneers of AI: http://pioneersof.ai/Follow Pioneers of AI on all channels: https://linktr.ee/pioneersofai At the center of AI is people, so we want to hear from you! Share your experiences with AI — or ask us a burning question — by leaving a voicemail at 601-633-2424. Your voice could be featured in a future episode!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the founder of World Central Kitchen, renowned chef and humanitarian José Andrés has truly mastered the art of leading through crisis. Andrés returns to Rapid Response to share insights from his new book, Change the Recipe — a candid collection of personal stories that doubles as a playbook for navigating uncertainty, breaking rules, and leading with heart. José also explores how AI is poised to reshape the food industry, the importance of unplugging, and more. In a world seemingly on fire, José shows us how to harness that fire — without getting burned.Order José's New Book TodayVisit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One recent scientific breakthrough set the internet ablaze: The ‘de-extinction' of the dire wolf. While many celebrated Colossal Biosciences' announcement, the experiment also sparked controversy throughout the scientific community — namely the ethics of birthing and rewilding extinct animals, and whether Colossal's dire wolf puppies are the real thing. Colossal's co-founder and CEO Ben Lamm joins Rapid Response to take us inside the dire wolf journey, revealing how the start-up attracted a roster of celebrity investors, and what the company's technology means for not only conservation and biodiversity, but potentially the future of human health.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Amid tariff whiplash and the rejuggling of global trade, GE Vernova's CEO Scott Strazik is finding a way to stay “relentlessly optimistic.” Strazik returns to Rapid Response to share how the company plans to continue its success as one of Wall Street's top-performing stocks, despite looming supply chain disruption, and an evolving conversation about climate and the energy transition. Strazik also reflects on rising trends in wind and nuclear energy, and why staying agile matters more than ever.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When government officials accidentally included The Atlantic's editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg in a Signal group chat discussing U.S. military plans, all hell broke loose. The Atlantic's CEO, Nicholas Thompson joins Rapid Response to discuss the scandal now known as “Signalgate”, revealing insider details about how the story came to be and sharing how the publication managed to capitalize on the business opportunities that sprouted. Thompson also breaks down the implications of Trump's latest tariff turnaround and what Elon Musk's plan to merge X with his AI company means for the future of your digital life.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Many prominent law firms have recently found themselves in President Trump's crosshairs. Skadden Arps' attorney Rachel Cohen encouraged the firm to fight the government's pressure, only to have her attempts rebuffed and to be effectively forced out from the firm. Cohen joins Rapid Response to share her dramatic story, and fears about how the rule of law is changing in America. Rachel's experience raises questions about the legal industry's role in the checks and balances of the US system, and how leaders everywhere navigate the relationship between their business and broader society.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Planned Parenthood is facing a new wave of existential threats, this time targeting its funding as a women's health provider. Three years after the US Supreme Court removed the federal right to abortion, Planned Parenthood President and CEO Alexis McGill Johnson returns to Rapid Response to talk about why she's now turned to the same Court to protect her organization from an attack by South Carolina's governor. Big funding attacks are also underway from Texas and the Trump Administration. McGill Johnson's approach to conflict, how she motivates herself and her team, provides a telling window into leadership in duress.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's been a wild few years for Snowflake, from a record-breaking IPO to a plummeting stock price to a data-breach scandal. Sridhar Ramaswamy took over in the heat of the turmoil and helped steady the ship, in part by betting big on AI. Ramaswamy returns to Rapid Response to share lessons from the company's turnaround, including insights behind high profile partnerships with OpenAI and Anthropic, how Snowflake embraced China's Deepseek early, and why Ramaswamy calls Snowflake the most consequential AI-data company in the world.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

More than a decade after Jessica Alba co-founded The Honest Company with a mission to deliver cleaner, healthier products for families, the brand faces new challenges in a shifting consumer landscape. CEO Carla Vernón joins Rapid Response to share how she's drawing on her experience at General Mills and Amazon to navigate shifting retail headwinds and reignite the brand. Vernón dives into the value of diversity as a business advantage, why patriotism takes on new meaning in today's landscape, and what it really takes to lead a mission-driven company amid uncertain times.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tomorrow, NPR's CEO Katherine Maher goes before a DOGE subcommittee in Congress to defend the public media outlet's case for federal funding. Maher returns to Rapid Response for the first time since taking on the CEO role to preview her testimony, sharing how funding cuts would impact Americans' broad access to crucial news and information, particularly in rural areas. Maher also reveals why the company has pivoted its DEI strategy, how the organization can better frame its identity as an outlet for all Americans, and more.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump's tariff war is causing vast disruption across international trade. Ryan Petersen, founder and CEO of worldwide logistics and shipping platform Flexport, shares a behind-the-scenes look into how global commerce truly functions right now. Petersen also explores AI's exciting impact on common supply chain woes, why business leaders should surprisingly lean into micromanagement, and more. Whether you're a scrappy startup or well-established organization, Petersen reveals why the current trade crisis could unlock hidden opportunities.This episode is brought to you in partnership with Stripe — empowering businesses around the world to make progress.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Recent market swings are causing whiplash for everyday investors. Sarah Levy, CEO of digital investment platform Betterment returns to Rapid Response to shed light on a market in flux. Levy explores the evolving volatility of crypto, socially responsible investing, generational attitudes to finance, and more. Amid the noise around our economy, Sarah offers a clear-eyed vision to help everyone find their own unique approach to money. Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How do you channel authenticity and candor to connect with an increasingly fractured audience? Erika Ayers Badan returns to Rapid Response to reveal the ups, downs, and lessons learned in her first year running the lifestyle brand Food52 – a big pivot from her role as CEO of Barstool Sports. Her new podcast ‘Work' drops advice from her own career, plus hot takes – from generational differences in the office to her surprising case for in-person work. Badan also shares how Food52 is finding its voice around politics, navigating social media, and seeking bright spots in the media business.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

President Trump's dramatic cuts to U.S. government grants are destabilizing every corner of the non-profit sector, leaving organizations scrambling to adapt. Stacy Palmer, CEO of the Chronicle of Philanthropy, explores the executive order's impact on both the public and private sector, how organizations can adjust to the unpredictable philosophy of the new administration, and what the future of giving may look like. With many historical institutions like public schools, houses of worship, and community organizations under pressure, this moment could further fracture the ties that bind Americans together.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As the National Women's Soccer League kicks off a new season, Commissioner Jessica Berman joins Rapid Response to share how the league is seizing a moment of unprecedented growth and excitement in women's sports. Berman inherited a league in turmoil, plagued by allegations of abuse and the subsequent player revolt. After two years at the helm, Berman has not only steadied the ship, but secured historic media deals and record team valuations. Whether or not you're a soccer fan, Jessica shares lessons sure to inspire any leader looking to spark game-changing impact.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Oscars aren't just about filmmaking — they're a real-time look at the culture, business, and power plays shaping Hollywood and larger entertainment industry. The Ankler CEO Janice Min returns to Rapid Response to unpack the night's biggest turning points — including how Sean Baker's Anora proved that low-budget filmmaking can outrun major studios, why Hollywood is more afraid of political controversy than ever, and how livestreaming is factoring in the streamers wars, one Hulu glitch at a time.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For over 90 years, countless iconic musicians have graced The Apollo Theatre in New York City, from James Brown and Aretha Franklin, to Drake and Bruno Mars. Today, the venue is expanding its footprint in the hopes of straddling in-person and digital engagement. The Apollo's CEO Michelle Ebanks joins Rapid Response to explore how she's tapping into celebrity culture, operating a historically Black institution in the midst of a DEI backlash, and more. Whether it's negotiating with Prince or proving a judgemental boardroom wrong, Michelle shares stories that illustrate the resilience and creativity we all need today.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Feeling the impact of eggflation? Vital Farms' CEO Russell Diez-Canseco joins Rapid Response to offer valuable context beyond the eye-popping price tags. As avian flu continues to wipe out millions of birds, many egg producers are struggling — but Vital Farms has managed to keep growing. Canseco shares how the brand's relationship with farmers, transparency with customers, and unique business model has allowed the company to turn crisis into opportunity. He also explores why Vital Farms became a B Corp before its IPO, the company's high-profile lawsuit with PETA, and what makes Vital Farms' yolks so orange. Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rapid Response brings you a special episode from Fixable with Francis Frei and Anne Morriss. In this featured conversation, Francis and Anne sit down with James Rhee—entrepreneur, author, and impact investor—who led the remarkable turnaround of Ashley Stewart, a retail brand serving Black, moderate-income, plus-size women.As a first-time CEO and private equity investor, James took an unconventional approach, proving that deep respect for employees—combined with strategic financial discipline—can drive unprecedented success. Hear how he applied radical kindness and data-driven decision-making to revive a struggling company and uncover valuable insights for any leader navigating crisis or change.About FixableFrances Frei is a Harvard Business professor. Anne Morriss is a CEO and best-selling author. Anne and Frances are two of the top leadership coaches in the world. Oh, did we mention they're also married to each other? Together, Anne and Frances move fast and fix stuff by talking to guest callers about their workplace issues and solving their problems – in 30 minutes or less. Both listeners and guests will receive actionable insights to create meaningful change in the workplace – regardless of their position on the company ladder.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's no longer just start-ups and indie creators raising funds on Kickstarter. The site is now attracting big brands like L'Oreal looking to directly engage a vibrant community of fans. Kickstarter's CEO Everette Taylor returns to Rapid Response to open up about the company's recent evolution — from replacing his leadership team and expanding the platform's ambitions, to launching a host of tools to win over new users and reengage old ones. Everette also reveals the hidden benefits behind Kickstarter's four day work week, takes issue with the backlash against corporate DEI, and argues why making progress requires doing things in a new, riskier way.This episode is brought to you in partnership with Stripe — empowering businesses around the world to make progress.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As demand declines for EVs, and Tesla's Elon Musk wields power in the new Trump administration, electric automaker Rivian is taking this time to adapt its business and expand its brand. Rivian's founder and CEO RJ Scaringe joins Rapid Response to share how the company is moving beyond the luxury SUV space — introducing a raft of new challenges and opportunities. RJ explores Rivian's recent $5.8 billion partnership with Volkswagen, the ongoing risk assessment for self-driving features, and how Rivian's AI-enabled 'technological plumbing' can accelerate the brand beyond incumbent manufacturers.This episode is brought to you in partnership with Stripe — empowering businesses everywhere to make progress.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As former US Deputy Chief Technology Officer, Jen Pahlka helped to create the US Digital Service (USDS) to upgrade the government's tech capabilities. Today, the USDS houses Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), hell-bent on quick, disruptive change. Pahlka returns to Rapid Response to share why the motivation behind Musk's disruption of the status quo isn't necessarily wrong, arguing that we must clear the “sludge” out of government processes to finally create the conditions for substantive change. She also explores how AI can be used to streamline government work, the role of business minds in the White House today, and more. Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Super Bowl LIX had a clear winner on the field, but victory for brands was more hard-won. Sure, plenty of ad spots were star-studded, from Seal to David Beckham to Ben and Casey Affleck, but to what end? Many aimed for impact, but did they deliver? Autodesk CMO Dara Treseder offers hot takes on this year's hits and misses from the big game's ads. She joins host Bob Safian to break down what makes an NBDB (never been done before) moment, why so many brands adopted a “safe” approach, and what trends business leaders should note going forward.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As many organizations throughout the business landscape implement return-to-office mandates, the debate around RTO's impact on performance and culture intensifies. Harvard Business School professor Frances Frei joins Rapid Response to bust popular myths around in-person work, and reveal the surprising intentions of many pro-RTO business leaders. Frei also shares insights about AI's impact on corporate life, valuable tips to make your meetings more efficient, and more.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Amid higher costs, longer wait times and waning sales, Starbucks is ready for a brand refresh. The company's new CEO, Brian Niccol joins Rapid Response to reveal how Starbucks plans to go back to its roots and prioritize human connection in the hopes of restoring the brand's position in US culture. Niccol also shares insights about evolving Starbucks' business model, tackling the Chinese market, and how AI and tariffs are poised to shape the brand's future. Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After 17 years, Airbnb's Brian Chesky is hitting ‘reset' — reinventing the business from the ground up and expanding the brand in unexpected ways. Chesky joins Rapid Response to explain why now is the right time for Airbnb's ‘great reinvention', how it connects to the evolution of AI, China's Deepseek, and more. Chesky also shares his unconventional employee philosophy – what he calls “the fallacy of autonomy”, and takes us inside his relationship with Sam Altman, revealing previously unheard details about Altman's brief yet tumultuous dismissal from OpenAI.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As Chinese AI developers send shockwaves through Silicon Valley, and Elon Musk spats with President Trump over AI policy, Reid Hoffman returns to Rapid Response to explore today's AI landscape, and the secrets behind a concept he calls AI ‘Superagency'. Hoffman shares his vision for what an AI-infused workday will soon look like, how we address society's greatest fears about technology, and more. As we enter a daunting new era — politically, socially and technologically — Hoffman urges listeners to choose curiosity over fear.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Netflix's new blockbuster earnings report to controversial moves announced by Meta's Mark Zuckerberg, tech and media are navigating seismic shifts amid a rapidly evolving political and cultural landscape. CNBC's Julia Boorstin joins Bob Safian to decode the streaming wars, plus the business risks and reasons behind Meta's abrupt changes of course. As leader of CNBC's annual Changemakers list and author of the book “When Women Lead,” Boorstin also weighs in on why developing more women in business and entrepreneurship makes bottom-line sense in any era.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As return-to-office policies reignite the perennial debate over work-life balance, a cultural shift is underway. Neha Ruch, founder of Mother Untitled and author of The Power Pause, is leading the charge to redefine the role – and perception – of working parents. In this episode of Rapid Response, she explores how career pauses can drive personal growth, expand networks, and unlock better long-term career outcomes. As support systems for parents become increasingly strained, Neha sparks an essential dialogue about our well-being, self-fulfillment, and the evolving definition of success.Find The Power Pause: How to Plan a Career Break After Kids--and Come Back Stronger Than Ever here: https://www.motheruntitled.com/thepowerpauseVisit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In anticipation of Monday's presidential inauguration, businesses around the world are crafting their response and gearing up for four years of change. Barby Siegel, CEO of global communications agency Zeno Group, joins Rapid Response to explore how leaders should assess what issues are right for their business to speak out on, and how the new Administration impacts the already evolving state of DEI, a polarized workforce, and more. While many executives feel intimidated by the increased societal pressure on businesses, Barby encourages listeners to instead embrace this new era as a hidden opportunity. Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/Donate to Baby2Baby: https://baby2baby.org/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Wildfires have forced more than 100,000 people to evacuate their homes in the Los Angeles area, and killed at least 24 people. In what will likely be the most costly disaster in U.S. history, thousands of homes and businesses have been lost. In a special edition of Rapid Response, host Bob Safian and show producers share on-the-ground perspectives from entrepreneurs who have been directly impacted.A couple who ran a small bakery in Altadena, Pain Beurre, share the story of losing their business and home to the flames. The restaurant chain Homestate describes how it's engaging team members in food relief, and pivoting a closed location to distribute aid. And the LA project manager for World Central Kitchen (chef José Andrés' global organization) details how its global/local playbook is taking shape amid these fires.If you'd like to support any of the organizations featured, please follow the links below:Pain Beurre: A Micro BakeryHomestateWorld Central KitchenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In recent months, the fashion industry has seen unprecedented price hikes, CEO turnovers, sustainability back-peddling, and more — culminating in what The Business of Fashion's Imran Amed is calling, a ‘full-blown luxury crisis'. Amed joins Rapid Response to take us inside the industry chaos, and share his insights and predictions for the year ahead. Plus, he shares how the savviest brands today are finally cracking into the Indian market, finding a competitive advantage with AI, and taking inspiration from Oscar-winner Michelle Yeoh.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Entering 2025, AI is poised to continue disrupting, redefining and supercharging the business world. AI expert and Pioneers of AI host, Rana El Kaliouby, joins Rapid Response to share five bold AI predictions for the year ahead – from technological advancements to societal impact to investing. Whether you're looking for AI to further enhance your work, portfolio, or personal productivity, Rana's insights are the ideal primer for harnessing all the opportunity and potential at your disposal this year.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/Learn more about Pioneers of AI: http://pioneersof.ai/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new year is the perfect time to rethink work goals, habits, and systems. Dan Heath's new book Reset is focused on simple yet profoundly transformative ways to do just that. The co-author of bestsellers like Made to Stick and Switch, Dan shares hidden "leverage points” and other practical strategies to help us escape subpar routines and focus on what truly matters. Whether you're reexamining your work, your team, or your personal resolutions, this episode will change the way you approach 2025.Dan's book Reset is available for pre-sales here: https://danheath.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special holiday replay, we share another standout conversation from 2024 featuring Impossible Foods' Peter McGuinness. This year, sustainability initiatives rolled back across industries and meat alternatives struggled more than ever before on sales. McGuinness tells host Bob Safian where plant-based brands made big missteps, and why the industry's marketing should evolve – potentially away from climate change messaging. McGuinness also shares how Impossible leverages retail partners like Starbucks and Burger King, lessons he learned from scaling oat milk for Chobani, and why Impossible see's other plant-based players less as competitors and more as collaborative “frenemies.” Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special holiday replay, we share a standout conversation of 2024 featuring ex-CEO of Barstool and current head of Food52, Erika Ayers Badan. She shares with Rapid Response why she made a dramatic career pivot — taking over Food52 — and why running Barstool was like “a heart attack every day.” She also explores lessons around cultivating a community of fans, and why, as a leader, “no” is often a better answer than “yes.”Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This has been a defining year for Big Tech and media. Nick Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic, joins Rapid Response host Bob Safian to explore the dominance of companies like NVIDIA and Apple, the personalities shaping tech — from Sam Altman to Elon Musk — and the shifting landscape of AI and innovation. Nick also shares what it's like to lead The Atlantic during a time of heightened media disruption and skepticism.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We've rounded up the most definitive business lessons of 2024, as heard on Rapid Response. Drawn from standout guests like will.i.am, Airbnb's Brian Chesky, Salesforce's Marc Benioff, and more, these moments not only offer takeaways from tech to entertainment, they provide a roadmap for challenges ahead in 2025. Our curated collection of insights in leadership and creative problem-solving is drawn from a half-dozen of our favorite conversations, with lasting lessons to navigate uncertainty and drive success. Watch the interviews featured in today's episode:Will.i.am: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7XBPgrfiDoDara Treseder: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bazq03QNkQJanice Min: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PwK3FkAufU8Marc Benioff: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CgjKMRMURcJoanna Strober: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXEHeCPuBI8Brian Chesky: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fvhh4U2_EFEVisit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's been a wild year in sports business, with the surge in popularity for women's sports to the eye-watering deals in NBA broadcasting rights. Sports journalist and podcaster Pablo Torre, host of Pablo Torre Finds Out, joins Rapid Response to look back at the year that was across many of the major sports leagues. Pablo explores the impact of notable athletes like Caitlin Clark and Juan Soto, how private equity is poised to alter the NFL, and why the sports industry is the biggest house of cards left standing.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Millions of users have joined social media platform Bluesky in recent weeks, as an alternative to Elon Musk's X. It's sparking new opportunities and challenges for Bluesky's tiny 20-person team, and COO Rose Wang joins Rapid Response to discuss a major shift underway in social media. As dissatisfaction with the big platforms grows, she explains why the open network of Bluesky isn't just X by another name, nor a liberal refuge, but instead part of a new decentralized social web that prioritizes closer personal connections, data privacy, and democratization.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.