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I've just had the pleasure of speaking to Nick Mohammed on Great Company, so it felt only right to revisit my conversation with his fellow Faithful, England rugby legend Joe Marler.Larger than life, totally unfiltered and never one to hold back, Joe is one of the most memorable characters to ever pull on an England shirt.In this Great Moment, Joe talks about the real first love of his life - his wife, Daisy - and why she's always been his compass, both on and off the pitch. Listen to the full episode HERE!If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast And if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk THE CREDITSProducer: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSocial Media: Laura CoughlanExec Producer: Ewan Newbigging-Lister & Jemima RathboneGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Georgie Coleridge Cole is the founder of SheerLuxe, one of the UK's leading digital lifestyle brands.Over twenty years, Georgie built SheerLuxe from a weekly newsletter into the go-to destination for fashion, beauty, travel and interiors.Then she sold it for £40 million.Georgie's story is proof that a simple idea can become something extraordinary. So, I couldn't wait to sit down with her for this week's episode of Founders Friday.In our conversation, Georgie shares:- The purpose behind the SheerLuxe empire- Why she thinks the creator economy is booming- The big business idea she never followed through with- The difference between a good idea and a good businessGeorgie is proof that an idea, done well and done consistently, can become an empire.Georgie Coleridge Cole is Great Company.If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us:Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcastJamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducer: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode SummaryRecorded live at the San Diego Angel Conference finale at SDSU, Eric Ries — author of The Lean Startup — sits down with product leader and founder coach Vidya Dinamani to unpack his new book, Incorruptible. His argument: there's a gravitational force that pulls even mission-driven companies toward decay — “the making of money without the creating of value” — and the more successful you get, the bigger a target you become. Eric walks through how it happens (stack-ranking by ROI, the “what would investors want” ghost in every meeting, Groupon's two-emails-a-day spiral), why the fix has to come earlier than anyone wants (“it's too early until it's too late”), and the concrete governance moves that keep the great ones honest. Along the way: the San Diego origin story of Costco, Cloudflare giving away its best paid feature, Anthropic's long-term benefit trust, a hard-nosed take on AI, and a health insurer whose customer-service reps act like guardian angels.Key Topics* Corruption as “making money without creating value”* The gravity that pulls companies from mission to mediocrity* Costco's San Diego origin — and why FedMart died* Why stack-ranking by ROI buries the work that builds trust* “It's too early until it's too late” — protecting the mission in time* The PBC filing and binding your board to the mission* AI as a “Dunning-Kruger factory,” and how to actually use it* “Love” as an operating framework: the Devoted Health storyLinks & Resources* Incorruptible* The Lean Startup* Long-Term Stock Exchange (LTSE)* San Diego Angel ConferenceConnect on LinkedIn* Neal Bloom * Eric Ries* Vidya Dinamani This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit risingtidepartners.substack.com/subscribe
Nick Mohammed is a man of many talents. He's the comedian behind the iconic character Mr Swallow, an Emmy-nominated actor best known for Ted Lasso, Slow Horses and Intelligence and, an amazing magician. He also captured the nation's hearts as the Faithful who almost won the first series of The Celebrity Traitors.Nick is one of the nicest people you'll ever meet. He's also proof that success rarely happens overnight. Nick started out performing stand-up to an audience of just two people and he has worked his way up to become one of the country's favourite comedians and actors. In our conversation, Nick shares: How magic helped him deal with school bulliesBeing part of the first ever series of The Celebrity Traitors What it's like working with David Schwimmer and Jason Sudeikis How he created his iconic character Mr Swallow The secret to a happy marriage Nick is proof that the things that make you feel different can end up becoming your biggest strengths. Nick Mohammed is Great Company. If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducers: Helen Burke Assistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh Bennett Senior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The strongest companies don't just grow. They help their people grow with them.In this clip from our recent company-wide Town Hall, Rob Beardsley shares why LSCRE's growth is about more than acquiring new properties. He explains how building a stronger portfolio creates opportunities for the entire team and why growing together is at the core of the company's vision.Learn more about LSCRE at www.lscre.com
Evan Spiegel, the co-founder and CEO of Snap, launched Snapchat in 2011 while he was still a student at Stanford University. Since then, he's built one of the biggest social platforms in the world, used by more than 400 million people every day. Evan's idea has genuinely changed the way we communicate. So, I couldn't wait to sit down with him for our first episode of Great Company Presents: Founders Friday mini-series. In our conversation, Evan shares: How the idea of Snapchat came about The moment he decided to drop out of Stanford The reality of becoming a billionaire at 25 How he balances fatherhood and entrepreneurship Why Specs is the future of computingEvan is proof that every successful business starts with an idea and sometimes the biggest rewards come from having the courage to take a risk...Evan Spiegel is Great Company.If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducers: Helen Burke Assistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Want to build a business that employees and clients are excited to be part of? It starts with a strong company culture. But what, exactly, does that look like? Today's guest, podcast host, keynote speaker and author TJ Sweet, is here to tell you what makes a great culture and how to leverage it to give your business an unshakeable foundation. This conversation is all about leadership, the privilege of pressure and the willingness to learn. Listen in and find out why an authentic culture is the secret sauce to successful organizations and profitable businesses.Website: https://tjsweet.com/
Anastacia is the American pop-soul superstar with one of the most recognisable voices in music. She's had an incredible career spanning over 25 years, sold more than 50 million records and given us huge hits like I'm Outta Love and Left Outside Alone. But behind her unmistakable voice is an even more unbelievable story. In our conversation, Anastacia opens up about the early days of her career, from singing at Hollywood parties to lying about her age to get on TV and, how her mum always knew she had something special, long before anyone else did.In this conversation, Anastacia shares: Lying about her age so she could compete in a MTV talent showHow her Dad inspired her hit song ‘Left Outside Alone'Overcoming breast cancer twice and what it taught her about herself The unforgettable advice Michael Jackson and Luciano Pavarotti gave herAnastacia is a powerful reminder of staying true to yourself and never giving up on your dreams. No matter how big they might seem. Anastacia is Great Company. Buy tickets to Anastacia's Not That Kind 25th Anniversary Tour HEREIf you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducers: Helen Burke Assistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh Bennett & Harry SawkinsSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Lina Nielsen is an Olympic sprinter and hurdler who has overcome incredible challenges to reach the top of her sport.Growing up in East London, Lina got the chance to be a kit carrier at the London 2012 Olympic Games. Seeing the world's greatest athletes up close made her dream of competing in the Olympics one day too. But when she was just 17, Lina was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis after the right side of her body became paralysed. She thought her Olympic dream was over. It wasn't. In our conversation, Lina shares how she defied the odds to achieve her dreams, what it took to get there and what she's aiming for next. In this episode, Lina shares:Her incredible journey to Olympic bronze Growing up without her dad and its impact on her relationshipsBeing diagnosed with MS at 17 The misconceptions about MS she's determined to break downLearning to accept her diagnosis without letting it define herLina's story is a powerful reminder that the labels we're given don't define what's possible.Lina Nielsen is Great Company.Lina will be competing in the Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships in August. You can buy tickets HERE! https://tickets.birmingham26.com/If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducers: Helen Burke & Dan KingAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this Perspective episode of Money & Meaning, Jeff Bernier examines one of the most common questions investors ask: whether they're missing out by not owning the latest high-profile stock or IPO. Using examples ranging from railroads and the telecom boom to NVIDIA, SpaceX, and artificial intelligence, Jeff explores why transformative companies don't always translate into exceptional investments. He explains the difference between innovation and speculation, why market expectations matter, and how diversification allows investors to participate in long-term human progress without relying on predicting tomorrow's winners. Topics Covered Why investors are drawn to 'hot' stocks and IPOs The difference between a great company and a great investment What history teaches us about IPO performance SpaceX and the role of valuation versus business success Lessons from railroads and the telecom boom How artificial intelligence fits into historical innovation cycles Why market expectations matter more than growth alone Mean reversion in corporate profitability Research on the small percentage of stocks that create most market wealth Why diversification remains a powerful investment strategy Useful Links: Jeff Bernier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeffberniercfp_the-money-and-meaning-show-activity-7202103509700227072-h0Qn/ TandemGrowth Financial Advisors: https://www.tandemgrowth.com/ Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com)
Investing Beyond the Pitch & Building Great Companies with Alex Chompff What separates legendary venture capital firms from everyone else? How do experienced angel investors identify startups with the greatest potential before everyone else sees it? In this episode, we sit down with Alex Chompff, an accomplished entrepreneur, angel investor, and venture capital executive whose career has included working alongside some of Silicon Valley's most influential investment firms, including Kleiner Perkins, Mayfield, Sequoia Capital, and the Barksdale Group. Alex has also played an active role in California's innovation ecosystem through startup mentoring, angel investing with Sacramento Angels, and advising emerging technology companies. Drawing from decades of experience evaluating entrepreneurs, funding innovation, and navigating rapidly changing markets—including the evolution of cryptocurrency and emerging technologies—Alex shares practical insights for founders, investors, and anyone interested in building successful businesses. Whether you're raising capital, making your first angel investment, or simply curious about how world-class investors think, this conversation provides an inside look at what separates exceptional companies from the rest. In This Episode Alex's journey through some of Silicon Valley's most respected venture capital firms What the best VC firms consistently do differently Lessons learned from working with legendary investors How angel investors develop an investment thesis The characteristics that matter more than financial projections How experienced investors evaluate founders and leadership teams Common mistakes first-time angel investors and VCs make Why long-term success depends on much more than market size The evolving startup landscape and opportunities for entrepreneurs Key Takeaways Great venture investing is driven by pattern recognition and disciplined decision-making. Exceptional founders often stand out through resilience, adaptability, and execution rather than perfect business plans. Financial metrics tell only part of the story—leadership, culture, and market timing can be equally important. Successful investors develop repeatable frameworks instead of relying on instinct alone. Long-term value creation comes from backing great teams solving meaningful problems. Featured Guest Alex Chompff Alex Chompff has built an impressive career spanning venture capital, entrepreneurship, startup advisory, and angel investing. Having worked with firms such as Kleiner Perkins, Mayfield, Sequoia Capital, and the Barksdale Group, he brings firsthand experience from the heart of Silicon Valley's innovation ecosystem. Alex continues to support entrepreneurs and early-stage companies through mentoring, investing, and leadership within Sacramento Angels. Memorable Discussion Topics What makes iconic venture capital firms consistently successful? How do experienced investors recognize exceptional founders? What should entrepreneurs know before approaching angel investors? Why investment decisions extend well beyond spreadsheets and market analysis. The biggest misconceptions new investors have about startup investing. Connect with Alex LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexchompff/ Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice, nor do they necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC. Listeners should consult their own professional advisors before making any investment or business decisions.
Grace Beverley has spent the past decade building a career most people can only dream of. At just 18, she started her first business from her university bedroom. Since then, she's gone on to build three hugely successful companies, TALA, SHREDDY and The Productivity Method. I was so excited to sit down with Grace for an episode of Great Company. She's someone I've wanted on the show for a long time and the conversation more than lived up to my expectations. In this episode, Grace shares: The burnout that forced her to rethink everything How she learnt to trust herself and build businesses her own wayWhat she's doing to break the taboo around miscarriages in the workplace Why building a village of friends matters just as much as finding love The story behind her husband's INSANE proposal Grace is proof that success is not just about what you build - it's about the people who stand beside you while you're building it. Grace Beverley is Great Company.Listen to Grace's podcast, Working Hard with Grace Beverley HERE! If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducer: Helen Burke & Leonore RaabAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Days like Father's Day remind us of the people who mean the most to us. Some are there from the very beginning, others come into our lives later, but the people we love leave a mark that lasts forever. When Amol Rajan came on Great Company, we had one of the most honest and moving conversations I've ever had on the podcast, and it's stayed with me ever since. In this Great Moment, Amol opens up about losing his dad, what that loss has taught him and why we should never take the people we love for granted. Listen to the full episode HERE.If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast And if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk THE CREDITSProducer: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Jake JiSocial Media: Laura CoughlanExec Producer: Ewan Newbigging-Lister & Jemima RathboneGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Emma Myers' life changed almost overnight when ‘Wednesday' became a global hit on Netflix. Her role as Enid Sinclair made her an instant fan favourite and quickly launched her into the spotlight. Since then she's gone on to lead A Good Girl's Guide to Murder and star in the record-breaking Minecraft movie. But long before the world knew her name, Emma was a homeschooled kid who often felt like the odd one out.In our conversation, Emma opens up about the whirlwind of overnight fame, working with the likes of Jenna Ortega and Jack Black, and how she's learned to stay grounded in an industry that moves at a thousand miles an hour.In this episode, Emma shares: Growing up homeschooled and feeling like she didn't fit inAuditioning for Wednesday and how it changed her life overnightHer thoughts on fans shipping her and Jenna Ortega How her faith got her through her darkest momentsEmma is a reminder that life-changing moments don't have to be daunting and that sometimes the biggest changes can be the best thing that can happen. Emma Myers is Great Company. Stream A Good Girl's Guide to Murder HEREIf you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducers: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
.entry-img img{ display:none !important; } .single .hentry .entry-img{ display:none !important; } https://open.spotify.com/episode/3cW4LImOlr2eDc6opOmyPp Going public is often seen as the ultimate milestone for a successful business, yet for many great companies it marks the beginning of decline rather than a new chapter of sustainable growth. In this episode of The Grow CFO Show, host Kevin Appleby sits down with Eric Ries, author of The Lean Startup, to explore why so many mission-driven, high-performing companies lose their way after an IPO – and what CFOs and boards can do differently to prevent this fate. The conversation frames governance not as a legal box-ticking exercise, but as a strategic discipline that protects long‑term value, mission, and trust. Through vivid case studies – from Saul Price and the origins of Costco, to Novo Nordisk and its foundation structure, to Johnson & Johnson's Credo – Eric shows how governance choices can either entrench short‑term shareholder primacy or build what he calls a “governance fortress” that shields companies from destructive external pressures. He argues that CFOs are uniquely placed to champion this new governance, redefine profit around human flourishing, and ensure the organization can't make money except by achieving its mission. The result is a powerful toolkit for finance leaders who want to keep their companies “incorruptible” long after they hit the public markets. About Eric Ries Over the last two decades, Eric Ries's ideas about continuous innovation, long-term thinking, governance, and market reform have reshaped company building and management practices. He is the creator of the Lean Startup method, and the author of the New York Times bestseller The Lean Startup; The Leader's Guide; and The Startup Way. As a founder, he has put his own ideas into practice with The Long-Term Stock Exchange (LTSE); Answer.AI, an AI R&D lab; Virgil, a legal services startup; and IMVU. On The Eric Ries Show, he talks with world-class technologists, thought leaders, and executives building for the long-term. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife and three children. Key topics covered: Why good companies lose control and drift after going public. FedMart and Costco: how governance protects long‑term value. “Governance fortress” structures that resist short‑term investor pressure. Novo Nordisk: mission‑driven governance leading to massive value creation. Why most M&A destroys value and how CFOs should filter deals. Redefining profit around human flourishing and the CFO's new role. Links Eric Ries on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps: 0:00 – 1:42 — Why great companies lose their way post‑IPO. 1:42 – 4:27 — FedMart: investor pressure kills a great business. 4:27 – 7:30 — Costco and the “governance fortress” idea. 10:39 – 14:39 — The CFO as guardian of mission and structure. 15:21 – 20:19 — Novo Nordisk: foundation ownership and GLP‑1 success. 21:35 – 22:27 — Why many acquisitions are value‑destroying. 22:59 – 27:53 — J&J's Credo vs reality: mission statements aren't enough. 28:08 – 32:06 — Rethinking profit as human flourishing. 33:47 – 34:48 — Incorruptible as the essential book for CFOs. Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net
Companies like SpaceX, OpenAI, and Anthropic are expected to pursue public offerings at valuations that could rival or exceed the largest companies in history. The “Henssler Money Talks” hosts examine what trillion-dollar IPOs could mean for investors, why valuation still matters even when the business is extraordinary, and whether public investors will be participating in future growth—or paying for it upfront.Original Air Date: June 6, 2026Read the Article: https://www.henssler.com/the-difference-between-a-great-company-and-a-great-investment
Perrie Edwards was just 17 when she found fame on The X Factor. After auditioning for the show, she was put together with Jade, Leigh-Anne and Jesy to form Little Mix - a group that became one of the biggest girlbands in British pop history.In our conversation, Perrie reveals that one of the hardest things about being famous is having some of her most personal experiences play out in the public eye. From the very public end of her friendship with Jesy to going through a break-up, Perrie opens up about what it's really like to grieve, heal and grow while the world is watching. In this episode, Perrie shares: The reality of being on The X Factor at 17Going through a very public break-up with Zayn MalikThe emotional and physical impact of experiencing two miscarriagesThe secure, fulfilling love she's found with her husband AlexWhy she's made peace with her friendship with Jesy coming to an end Perrie is a reminder that the people we grew up watching on stage are still figuring things out and that there's real strength in being honest about that.Perrie Edwards is Great Company. Listen to Perrie's latest single ‘Passenger Princess' HEREIf you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducers: Helen Burke & Emilia GillAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Jake JiSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Daniel Mays has been in our living rooms for decades. From EastEnders and Line of Duty to Mrs Biggs and Thursday Murder Club, he's become one of the most familiar and loved faces in British TV and film. But long before he shared the screen with the likes of Michael Douglas and Stephen Graham, Daniel was the middle child in a working-class Essex family, desperate to be seen and heard. He found his voice through performing and never looked back.In this conversation, Danny shares: Growing up in Essex with dreams of becoming an actor Why he nearly didn't go to stage schoolThe unforgettable advice Michael Douglas gave him Taking on the role of the 'Black Cab R*pist' John Worboys and how it affected himWhat it was like performing in front of Daniel Day Lewis Daniel was a joy to talk to and he's a reminder of what's possible when you back yourself and never let go of the dream.Daniel Mays is Great Company. Watch ‘Believe Me' on ITV HERE Check out Daniel's new podcast ‘Gangster Presents: The Story of Ronnie Biggs' HERE If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducer: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Jake JiSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The How of Business - How to start, run & grow a small business.
How small business owners can build mission-driven companies that earn trust, create long-term value, and avoid the traps that cause good businesses to lose their way. Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/609-eric-ries-incorruptible/ What causes good companies to go bad? According to Eric Ries, author of The Lean Startup and his new book Incorruptible, it often begins when organizations lose sight of their true mission and start making decisions based solely on short-term financial results. In this episode, Henry Lopez speaks with Eric Ries about how entrepreneurs can build businesses that stay true to their purpose as they grow. Eric shares why mission is much more than a statement on a wall, how trust becomes a powerful competitive advantage, and why governance structures matter even for small businesses. They discuss real-world examples from companies like Cloudflare, Patagonia, Costco, and Taylor Guitars, exploring how organizations can make principled decisions that strengthen trust and create long-term value. Eric also explains why profit is often misunderstood and how business owners can think differently about profitability, purpose, and organizational longevity. The conversation concludes with Eric's thoughts on how AI is accelerating entrepreneurship and why founders who move quickly, learn rapidly, and remain grounded in their mission will be best positioned for the future. Whether you're launching a startup, leading a growing company, or planning for succession, this episode offers valuable insights on building a business that endures. Eric Ries is an entrepreneur, author, and creator of the Lean Startup methodology. His work on innovation, entrepreneurship, governance, and long-term company building has influenced founders and business leaders around the world. He is the bestselling author of The Lean Startup, The Startup Way, and Incorruptible. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run, grow and exit your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website https://TheHowOfBusiness.com
What happens when an iconic brand starts fighting its own fans?This week, Andrew and Jay discuss Fender's controversial cease-and-desist campaign against Strat-style guitar builders and discuss the difference between protecting intellectual property and damaging brand loyalty. What can businesses learn from the backlash?The conversation then shifts to Andrew's recent trip to Japan, where he spent six days immersed in lean manufacturing, visiting world-class companies, schools, and cultural landmarks. He shares early observations on Japanese efficiency, intentional design, continuous improvement, and why blindly copying another company's systems is often a mistake. Along the way, the hosts unpack lessons from Rick Rubin's The Creative Act, discussing creativity, constraints, improvisation, and why some of our biggest limitations are self-imposed. They wrestle with the relationship between process and innovation, lean thinking versus rigid systems, and how business leaders can create environments where people and ideas can flourish.
Eric Ries's The Lean Startup method is undeniably one of the most influential writings published on entrepreneurship in the last decade. It gave a whole generation of founders a new way to build - and made 'pivot' a household word. Now he's tackling an even harder subject: why do so many great companies eventually betray everything they stood for? And what can founders do to stop it? In his new book Incorruptible, Ries argues that governance is the most powerful and most underappreciated force in business. In this conversation with Carlos, they get into why shareholder primacy destroys brands, why the tools to resist that pressure already exist, and why most founders give away the thing that matters most.
This week on the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, I sit down with bestselling author Eric Ries for a timely and thought-provoking conversation about leadership, mission, and the growing crisis of short-term thinking in business.Eric first transformed the entrepreneurial world with The Lean Startup. In his latest book, Incorruptible, he tackles a new challenge: why so many organizations lose sight of their purpose, compromise their values, and drift away from the very mission that made them successful in the first place.Together, we explore why many traditional business “best practices” are no longer serving leaders, employees, or society — and what it takes to build organizations that can withstand the pressures of short-term performance, protect trust, and stay anchored in their values over time.Through powerful stories, real-world examples, and surprising data, listeners learn how organizations can defend their mission, outlast competitors, and resist the economic “gravity” that pulls so many companies into compromise. From redefining profit as human flourishing to making trust and love into competitive advantages, the episode offers a blueprint for building companies that not only succeed financially, but endure.Whether you're a founder determined to preserve your mission, or an executive seeking to build a culture of integrity, this episode is packed with practical guidance and inspiration. Tune in to discover what it truly means to become an incorruptible force for the good of your business and the good of humanity.What You'll Learn- The perils of “best practices.”- Corruption isn't just a crime – It's losing your purpose.- How the moral logic of capitalism has been lost.- Redefining profit: Maximizing human flourishing.- Mission (not money) makes companies endure.- Trust and love are competitive advantages.- Governance isn't boring. It's your organization's DNA.- Does growth kill mission? The risk is real. The reality does not have to be.- You can build incorruptible companies: An evidence-based business case.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) - A Special Topic and Guest(01:49) - From the Lean Start-up to Incorruptible(04:07) - Defining and Diagnosing Corruption(08:32) - The Moral Logic of Capitalism and Value Creation(13:03) - Redefining Profit and Human Flourishing(19:15) - Mission Drift and Protecting Organizational Purpose(22:01) - Outliers: Exceptional Companies and New Best Practices(25:29) - Financial Gravity, Longevity, and Employee Ownership(30:00) - Trust as Organizational Currency(34:23) - The Long Term Stock Exchange and Long-Termism(35:20) - Love, People-First Leadership, and Real Competitive Advantage(41:23) - Governance, Board Dynamics, and Creating Incorruptible Organizations(44:46) - Lessons from Case Studies: Zita Cobb and Beyond(49:16) - Closing Reflections and Practical ResourcesKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Incorruptible, Integrity, Do Good to Lead Well, Long Term Thinking, Effective Governance, Market Reform, Lean Startup Method, Company Culture, Avoiding Short Term Thinking, Corruption, Capitalism, Value Creation, Shareholder Primacy, Business Ethics, Corporate Mission, Profit Redefinition, Human Flourishing, Stakeholder Alignment, Organizational Trust, Financial Gravity, Mission Controlled Companies, Organizational Character, CEO Success
Welcome to the What's Next! Podcast with Tiffani Bova. I'm thrilled to welcome you back to a series I did with my dear friend, Roger Martin. He's the author of the amazing book, Playing to Win. In this episode, we're rethinking Warren Buffett's "moat" metaphor for competitive advantage. THIS EPISODE IS PERFECT FOR…leaders, entrepreneurs, strategists, and innovators who want to build a sustainable competitive advantage instead of competing in a race to the bottom. TODAY'S MAIN MESSAGE…most companies think about competitive advantage as something static, or what Warren Buffett famously coined the "moat" that protects the business from competitors. But Roger argues that this metaphor falls short in this day and age and introduces a more dynamic way to think about strategy: moving through "rooms" ahead of competitors. Roger explores why the best companies stay curious, how customer observation leads to innovation, why benchmarking can actually hurt differentiation, and how asking different questions is often the foundation of breakthrough growth. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Competitive advantage must evolve constantly, it can't stay static. Customer observation often reveals opportunities data alone misses. Benchmarking competitors too closely can limit innovation. Sustainable growth comes from continuously moving to the "next room." WHAT I LOVE MOST…Roger's perspective that competitive advantage is about continually evolving faster than your competitors. His "rooms" metaphor is such a powerful way to visualize innovation, customer learning, and staying ahead by asking smarter questions over time. Running Time: 30:44 Subscribe on iTunes Find Tiffani Online: LinkedIn Facebook X Find Roger Online: LinkedIn Website Show Summary on Substack
What if the most important inheritance you leave your family has nothing to do with money?Not stocks. Not real estate. Not a trust fund.But instead, a written record of your values, your hard-earned lessons, your family stories, your regrets, your hopes — the wisdom you want future generations to carry forward.Today's guest, Eric Becker, calls this an “ethical will.” He originally wrote one for his children years ago, never imagining that after the devastating loss of his daughter Kara, he would one day rediscover the document and find that it would help guide him through grief and back to himself.Eric is the Founder and Co-Chairman of Cresset Family Office & Private Wealth Management, a multi-family office overseeing more than $237 billion in assets under management and advisement. Before that, he co-founded Sterling Partners, the private equity firm that raised more than $5 billion across eight funds, and throughout his career has advised founders, entrepreneurs, and ultra-high-net-worth families on how to build businesses — and lives — that endure.His bestselling book and new podcast, The Long Game, explore exactly that: what separates companies, families, and leaders who survive for generations from those that disappear.In this conversation, we talk about the hidden traits of enduring companies, why culture matters more than most founders realize, how to recognize “moments of truth” in business and life, and why one of the most powerful questions you can ask yourself is: “What am I tolerating that I shouldn't be?”We also get into stoic philosophy, parenting, family meetings, AI, investing for the long term, and the surprising parallels between building a resilient company and building a meaningful life.Learn more about Farnoosh's upcoming literary workshop Book to Brand. Early bird registration is now open! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Most UX practitioners have spent their careers fighting for the user — pushing back against dark patterns, advocating for quality, and insisting that making things better for people is also better for the business. Eric Ries would say that instinct is exactly right. And that it's not enough.In this episode, host Laura Klein talks with Eric Ries — New York Times Best Selling Author of The Lean Startup and founder of the Long Term Stock Exchange — about his new book, Incorruptible: Why Good Companies Go Bad...and How Great Companies Stay Great. Eric makes the case that most of today's business best practices are actively value-destroying, and that the builders, designers, and makers who already believe product quality matters are more revolutionary than they realize — they just lack the tools to protect that belief inside their organizations.They dig into the history of shareholder primacy, why corporate governance is something every practitioner should understand, and the very specific questions you can ask in a job interview to find out whether a company is genuinely mission-driven or just mission-hopeful.About Eric Ries | LinkedinThe Eric Ries ShowIncorruptible (New Book) - Available Now!The Lean Start Up (Book)Related NN/G Articles & VideosUX Stakeholder Engagement 101Deceptive Patterns in UX: How to Recognize and Avoid ThemFour Factors in UX MaturityUX Maturity Is a Living System, Not a LadderUXers Need to Think Like Product LeadersTry One of Our Courses→ Becoming a UX Strategist (Live Online)→ Successful Stakeholder Relationships (Live Online)→ Lean UX and Agile (Live Online)→ Demonstrating UX Value (Self-Paced)→ UX Maturity: Elevating Organizational UX Practices (Self-Paced)Don't forget to like and subscribe! ❤️Follow Us On:NewsletterInstagramThreadsLinkedinBlueskyX
Eric Ries wrote The Lean Startup — a book that has sold over 2 million copies and reshaped how a generation of founders and product teams build products. Fifteen years later, he's back with a new book, Incorruptible, and a harder question: not how to build a great company, but how to keep it that way.What you'll learn:Why the forces destroying great companies are structural, not moral — and what that means for how you buildHow Saul Price built FedMart, and Costco's Jim Sinegal each solved half the problem, and why you need both halvesHow Anthropic used a purpose trust structure, the Long-Term Benefit Trust, to protect its safety mission from investor pressureWhy values on the wall fail and what the Johnson & Johnson asbestos scandal reveals about how incentives quietly overwrite principlesHow builders at any level of an organization can start influencing governance without a title or authorityKey takeaways:Success makes you a target: the more valuable your company becomes, the more pressure it faces to betray the mission that made it valuableEthos is the real moat: the intangible system of principles that makes a company trustworthy is harder to copy than any product or contractGovernance is not a legal formality; it is the active, ongoing practice of protecting what you built from the forces that will try to extract itCredits:Host: Carlos Gonzalez de VillaumbrosiaGuest: Eric RiesSocial Links:Find out more about Product School hereFollow our Podcast on TikTok hereFollow Product School on LinkedIn here
Most businesses don't fail overnight, they slowly drift. In this episode of The Idaho Business Podcast, Spencer Ward breaks down why every business owner should regularly audit their systems, culture, onboarding, management, and communication processes before small inconsistencies become major operational problems. From hiring ads and interview energy to onboarding execution, leadership communication, SOP enforcement, and employee accountability, this episode explains how businesses accidentally turn into a giant game of telephone when systems aren't reinforced consistently. Spencer also shares real-world examples from inside his own company, including: Why culture must match from hiring to daily operations How digital onboarding failed without ownership Why managers accidentally create dependent employees The importance of consistent discipline and policy enforcement How operational myths spread inside companies Why auditing systems protects profitability and culture If you want your business to scale without losing standards, culture, communication, and execution, this episode is packed with practical insights every owner and manager needs to hear. If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube
Vogue Williams is one of Ireland's most loved exports. From co-hosting the hugely popular podcast, ‘My Therapist Ghosted Me' with Joanne McNally to fronting documentaries and writing a Sunday Times bestseller, ‘Big Mouth', Vogue's built a career that's as varied as it is brilliant. She also happens to be married to my buddy, Spencer Matthews and over the years, she's become one of my favourite people too. Nothing was off limits when Vogue joined me on Great Company and I found myself learning things about her life I'd never heard before. In this episode, Vogue shares:What it was like being a rebellious teenager and a child of divorce Why she avoided grief after losing her dad at 22 years old Her favourite memories from her modelling daysSpencer's WILD marriage proposalHaving a fourth child and why she and Spencer make such a good team Vogue is the kind of person who reminds you that life is meant to be enjoyed and spending an hour in her company feels exactly like that. Vogue Williams is Great Company. You can get Vogue's book, Big Mouth, HEREIf you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducer: Helen BurkeEdit Producer: Faye LawrenceAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Gareth Gates became a household name overnight. When the first series of Pop Idol aired in 2002, it was the first show of its kind and Gareth instantly captured the nation's hearts as the boy who defied his stammer to sing.Growing up in Bradford Gareth was severely bullied at school for his stammer, so convinced he was defective that he almost didn't audition for Pop Idol at all. In our conversation, Gareth opens up about the whirlwind of Pop Idol fame, and how he's spent the years since learning to accept the very thing he once felt ashamed of. In this episode, Gareth shares:Being bullied at school and how joining a choir became his escapeWhy he almost didn't audition for Pop IdolThe reality of being thrown into the whirlwind of fameHow his relationship with Katie Price changed the way he approaches loveHow he's finally learned to accept his stammer as part of who he isGareth Gates is one of the kindest people I've ever met. He reminded me that being different isn't something to hide - it's the thing that makes you, you.Gareth Gates is Great Company. Check out Gareth's tour HERE Gareth's Instagram - @gareth_gatesIf you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducer: Helen Burke Assistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Marcus East has spent his career inside some of the world's most recognized organizations, including Apple, Google, IBM, National Geographic, and Marks & Spencer. In this episode of Partnering Leadership, he joins Mahan Tavakoli to discuss the ideas behind his book, Working with Dinosaurs: How to Lead Technological Evolution from the C-Suite. The conversation goes far beyond technology. It gets to the heart of why successful organizations often struggle to adapt even when smart leaders can clearly see change coming.Marcus shares lessons from leading large-scale transformations across both technology-native companies and legacy institutions. Drawing on experiences ranging from National Geographic's digital reinvention to the resistance he encountered at Marks & Spencer, he explains why organizational inertia is rarely caused by a lack of intelligence or strategy. More often, the barriers come from success itself. The systems, incentives, habits, and leadership behaviors that once created growth can quietly become the very things preventing change.The discussion also challenges much of the current AI hype. Marcus argues that AI will not magically fix broken organizations. In fact, organizations with weak data foundations, fragmented operating models, and outdated leadership structures may find their problems exposed even faster. The conversation explores why some companies accelerate through disruption while others become trapped defending processes, structures, and metrics that no longer fit the future they are entering.Mahan and Marcus also explore the human side of transformation. They discuss why executives often resist the very changes they publicly support, how “legacy thinking” shapes decision making, and why many transformation efforts fail between the CEO's vision and frontline execution. Marcus offers a candid look at what distinguishes organizations that adapt successfully, including the operating models, collaboration patterns, and leadership mindsets he observed inside companies like Apple and Google.For CEOs and senior executives facing pressure to modernize while still delivering results today, this episode offers practical insight into the realities of organizational change, leadership alignment, and technological evolution. It is a thoughtful conversation about how leaders can avoid becoming trapped by the systems and successes of the past while preparing their organizations for what comes next.Actionable Takeaways:• You'll learn why some of the biggest barriers to transformation come from leaders who were highly successful under the previous model.• Hear why Marcus believes many AI investments will fail and what separates organizations that will actually benefit from AI adoption.• You'll hear the striking contrast between how National Geographic approached innovation versus the resistance Marcus encountered at Marks & Spencer.• Learn why many organizations struggle not because the CEO lacks vision, but because execution breaks down deep inside the organization.• Hear how legacy systems become emotional and political issues, not just technology problems.• You'll discover why leaders cannot take everyone along on a transformation journey and what it means to build a “coalition of the willing.”• Learn the difference between organizations obsessed with process and those obsessed with customer outcomes.• Hear why companies like Apple and Google organize engineers, designers, marketers, and business leaders differently from most traditional organizations.• You'll learn why many leadership teams measure activConnect with Mahan Tavakoli:Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website
Emma Barnett is an award-winning journalist, author and broadcaster, with more than two thousand interviews under her belt and a seat on BBC Radio 4's Today programme. Emma was encouraged to ask questions from a young age and she's built her entire career around them. Whether she's holding a politician to a 12-second silence on live radio or interviewing the Prime Minister, she's known for running towards difficult conversations, not away from them.She's also become a powerful voice for women. In our conversation, Emma opens up about her IVF journey and the miscarriage that left her so defeated she nearly didn't go through another round of treatment - the one that led to her daughter. In this episode, Emma shares:What it's like interviewing the UK's biggest politicians Her IVF journey and why she chose to speak openly about treatment when it failedRemembering the people who wanted children and can't have them How she shut down a troll and their surprising responseWhat intimidates her most in the world… Emma is proof that the best interviewers aren't the ones with all the answers, they're the ones brave enough to keep asking the questions of others and of themselves.Emma Barnett is Great Company.You can follow Emma on Instagram HERE Listen to Emma's podcast, Ready To Talk, HEREDiscover Colour Your Streets - Emma's family colouring book company HEREIf you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducer: Helen Burke & Faye LawrenceAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Why product alone does not create growth How weak distribution makes strong products fail The difference between retention and growth Why companies mistake distribution problems for product problems Why smart founders build distribution before they need it
In this episode, I'm joined by Eric Ries – entrepreneur, founder of the Lean Startup movement, and author of The Lean Startup and Incorruptible – for a conversation about what it actually takes to build companies that last. Eric's work has shaped how startups and large organizations approach innovation, but this conversation goes deeper than experimentation. It's about what happens after you succeed and why so many good companies slowly lose their way. At the center is a concept he calls financial gravity: the invisible force that pushes organizations toward short-term decisions, often at the expense of customers, employees, and long-term value. We talk about how this pressure shows up everywhere – from venture-backed startups to public companies – and why even well-intentioned leaders struggle to resist it. We dig into real examples, from Costco and Patagonia to lesser-known companies that have built what Eric calls "incorruptible" systems – organizations designed to hold their values under pressure. That means not just strong culture, but governance, ownership, and structures that reinforce the mission over time. We explore: Where things break. Why founders lose control. Why incentives drift. Why "best practices" often lead to worse outcomes. And why resisting that pull requires more than good intentions. Along the way, we touch on AI, alternative ownership models, and the growing tension between innovation and accountability, especially as new technologies are being built inside increasingly concentrated power structures. If you're building a company, thinking about long-term value, or trying to create something that doesn't fall apart as it scales, this podcast is for you.
Chris Appleton has built a reputation as one of the world's most trusted celebrity hair stylists. From Kim Kardashian and JLo to Ariana Grande and Christina Aguilera, he's worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood. It's a world away from his upbringing in Leicester. As a teenager, Chris was bullied at school for working in a local hairdressers and was labelled before he had even begun to understand his own sexuality. In our conversation, Chris opens up about the abuse he faced from bullies, coming out in his twenties and the difficult period that followed. He tells me about the moment he realised he'd built a career helping other people feel confident - but had never done the same for himself - and how he's finally learned to accept and love who he is. In this episode, Chris shares: Why he cried after styling JLO's hair for the Super BowlBeing spat on and bullied at school for being different How he's learned to accept himself and love who he is Why his marriage to Euphoria star Lukas Gage didn't workThe celebrity he wants to style next Chris is a powerful reminder that the people who seem to have it all figured out are often the ones who've had to fight the hardest to get there.Chris Appleton is Great Company. You can get Chris' book, Your Roots Don't Define You here!This episode contains sensitive topic discussions including suicide. If you or someone you know is affected by anything in this episode and need support, please see the suggested helpline and website links below. Samaritans - 116 123 - samaritans.org If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducer: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
While the podcast team is taking a Radical Sabbatical, Kim is interviewing authors of the books that have had a big impact on her in the past two years. In this episode she's speaking with Eric Ries about his new book, Incorruptible, Why Good Companies Go Bad... and How Great Companies Stay Great. All too often, founders start a company and hire an incredible team dedicated to building a company that will solve an important problem and leave the world better off. Then they get a taste of success and life is good. But all too often, the bankers and lawyers swoop in and the demands to “maximize shareholder value” set in. More often than not, the company succumbs to the gravitational pull of mediocrity–or worse. Compromises are made, rationalizations abound, and after a while people start to wonder “how did this happen?!” Eric has thought deeply about how to structure companies so that they can remain true to their purpose and achieve great financial results. In his interview with Kim, he shares his extensive research on companies, both contemporary and some many decades old, who have been able to make this work. Background on Eric Ries: Over the last two decades, Eric Ries's ideas about continuous innovation, long-term thinking, governance, and market reform have reshaped company building and management practices. He is the creator of the Lean Startup method and the author of the New York Times bestseller The Lean Startup, The Leader's Guide, and The Startup Way. As a founder, Eric has put his own ideas into practice with the Long-Term Stock Exchange (LTSE); Answer.AI, an AI R&D lab; Virgil, a legal services startup; and IMVU. On The Eric Ries Show, he talks with world-class technologists, thought leaders, and executives building for the long-term. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife and three children. His new book, Incorruptible, will be released in May of 2026. CHAPTERS (00:00) Introduction to Eric Ries and His Work (01:31) The Motivation Behind 'Incorruptible' (04:28) The Dark Side of Business Practices (05:08) The Haunting Story of Vectura and Philip Morris (12:58) The Consequences of Corporate Governance (15:20) The Historical Context of Corporate Purpose (18:37) The Evolution of Corporate Purpose (22:07) The Impact of Purpose-Driven Companies (25:33) Understanding Financial Gravity (30:55) The Unconscious Forces in Corporations (34:43) Resisting the Pull of Mediocrity (39:14) Navigating Power Dynamics in Organizations (40:04) The Naivety of Value Creation (41:05) The Dilemma of Founder Control (42:34) Building Institutional Protections (43:36) Costco's Governance Fortress (45:57) The Cost of Governance Ratings (47:58) The Challenge of Public Companies (51:08) Taking Action for Ethical Leadership Connect with the Radical Candor team: Website LinkedIn YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tanya Burr rose to fame as one of the UK's original YouTubers. As part of the Brit Crew, she quickly became one of the most recognisable faces on the platform alongside Zoella, Alfie Deyes and Marcus Butler. I've always been fascinated by creators like Tanya and their ability to captivate millions of people from their bedrooms, so I was really excited to have her on Great Company. In our conversation, Tanya explains why she started YouTube and how quickly it turned into a career. She reveals how her self-worth became tied to how she was perceived online and why, after a very public break-up, she stepped away from YouTube in 2019 to rebuild her life away from the spotlight. In this episode, Tanya shares: Her favourite memories of the Brit CrewLiving with anxiety and how she's learnt to manage it Why she quit YouTube in 2019 Rebuilding her life after a public break up Dating in her thirties and how she knew her boyfriend Dan was the one Most people would struggle to walk away from something as successful as Tanya's YouTube career. But she did. She chose herself and her courage stayed with me long after our conversation ended. Tanya Burr is Great Company.If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.ukTHE CREDITSProducer: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Paris Fury is an absolute powerhouse of a woman. When At Home With The Furys first hit our screens, 2.6 million people tuned in to watch the first episode. We got a glimpse into life with former Heavyweight Champion, Tyson, and the rest of the Fury family. But for me, it was Paris who really stood out. As Tyson's wife of nearly 20 years, Paris has been with him through it all. From his boxing wins and losses to his mental health struggles and addiction - and all of that whilst raising their seven children together. Paris has always been Tyson's biggest supporter and the glue that holds the Fury family together. In this episode, Paris shares: Why her relationship with Tyson worksWhy the misinformation about Travellers frustrates her How Tyson's mental health struggles have affected her and why she'll always be his biggest supporterTeaching her seven children to believe they can achieve anythingHer daughter Venezuela getting engaged at 16 A very special rendition of her go-to karaoke song I loved every second of my conversation with Paris. She reminded me that you can do anything and be anyone you want to be. You've just got to go for it. Paris Fury is Great Company. If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk THE CREDITSProducer: Helen Burke & Jack ClaramuntAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSocial Media: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili GeovannettiExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-Lister Great Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to The Pod Squad!We review podcasts every week so you always have something new to listen to.98FM Producer Russell Alford and Newstalk Producer Caoimhe Harney join Andrea Gilligan to review ‘Great Company with Jamie Laing'!Image: Jampot Productions
All eyes are on Alix Earle right now as her very public feud with Alex Cooper plays out online.As one of the biggest influencers in the world, Alix is no stranger to the pressure that can come with living in the spotlight. But through it all, she's stayed grounded and built her brand by being herself.I was so excited to sit down with Alix in LA last year and record an episode of Great Company. She'd been on my dream guest list for years and the conversation didn't disappoint. In this Great Moment, she shares how she's stayed true to herself and explains why learning to say no has been one of the most powerful tools to protect herself and her career.Listen to the full episode HERE!If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast And if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk THE CREDITSProducer: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Jake JiSocial Media: Laura CoughlanExec Producer: Ewan Newbigging-Lister & Jemima RathboneGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Naomi Ackie is an award-winning actor known for her roles in The End of The F***ing World, Blink Twice and playing Whitney Houston in the 2023 biopic I Wanna Dance With Somebody.I love speaking to hugely talented actors like Naomi. I'm always so curious to know what they're like away from the characters they play.Naomi is a perfectionist who has been incredibly hard on herself throughout her career. In our conversation, she shares how her biggest role nearly broke her, what she's learnt from it and why she won't let it happen again.In this episode, Naomi shares:- The advice her Mum gave her when she first said she wanted to be an actor- The anxiety & panic attacks that came with playing Whitney Houston- How losing her Mum at 22 years old changed her- What it's like working alongside Zoe Kravitz, Florence Pugh & Robert Pattison- What happened when Channing Tatum gave her sister a lap danceThis conversation is a reminder that we should all stop judging ourselves so harshly and start celebrating our successes.Naomi Ackie is Great Company.If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk THE CREDITSExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerProducer: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh BennettSocial Media: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili Geovannetti Great Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The rise of the manosphere says a lot about where things are at - a lot of men feel unheard and unseen in today's world.Professor Green, aka Stephen Manderson, is a musician, storyteller, and one of my all-time favourite guests on Great Company. In this Great Moment, he talks openly about what many working-class men are dealing with. Feeling cut off, struggling to express themselves and often being pushed towards anger instead of understanding.Stephen shares the experiences that have shaped his life and what he's learnt from them. Because sometimes, the lessons that help us grow come from showing up and speaking honestly.Listen to the full episode HERE!If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast And if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk THE CREDITSExec Producer: Ewan Newbigging-Lister & Jemima RathboneProducer: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Jake JiSocial Media: Laura CoughlanGreat Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
BGI 413 The One About Wild Corporate Valuations and Great Company Turnarounds Board Games Insider – Join our Guild on Board Game Geek Guild | Like us on FB Social media: Ignacy Trzewiczek / Portal Games: website | FB | Twitter | Youtube Corey Thompson / Above Board TV: website | Youtube Stephen Buonocore / “The Podfather Of Gaming”: website | FB | Twitter | Youtube Intro Music: Happy Rock – Bensound.com
Belle Hassan first rose to fame on Love Island back in 2019, where her fiery personality made her one of the most memorable islanders of the series.Returning to the villa for this year's Love Island: All Stars, she found herself at the centre of one of the series' most talked about storylines, sparking conversation both on and off the show.Since leaving the villa, Belle has been navigating the reality of life on the outside, including the impact of intense public scrutiny and online abuse.In this episode, Belle shares:Her perspective from her time on Love Island: All Stars Dealing with online trolls and death threats Her mental health struggles as a teenager and past toxic relationshipsFinding ways to be kinder to yourselfHow Harrison has been her biggest support since leaving the villa This is a deeply honest conversation about self-worth and healing and above all, a reminder to be kind.Belle Hassan is Great Company.This episode contains sensitive topic discussions including self-harm. If you or someone you know is affected by anything in this episode and need support, please see the suggested helpline and website links below.Samaritans - 116 123 - samaritans.orgIf you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk THE CREDITSExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerProducer: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-Hankins Video: Josh BennettSocial Media: Laura Coughlan Audio: Rafi Amsili Geovannetti Great Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Moses Itauma is one of the most exciting names in boxing right now. He's a former European and World Junior Champion who's widely tipped to become Britain's next heavyweight superstar.I've always been really interested in the journey someone goes on before they become the next big thing and that's exactly where Moses is.At just 21, he's on the brink of greatness as he prepares to face Jermaine Franklin this Saturday night. It's a world away from where it all began… when he first stepped into a boxing gym aged nine and hated every second of it. From a small town in Slovakia to one of the most talked about heavyweight prospects in the world, Moses's journey has been anything but ordinary.In this episode, Moses shares:- Leaving Slovakia at the age of 3 and building a new life in Kent- Why he refuses to trash talk his opponents- What really happened behind the scenes of his fight with Dillian Whyte- What professional boxers actually get paid- The mindset, discipline and habits that are taking him to the topThis isn't just a conversation about boxing. It's about resilience, belief and what it really takes to become the very best. Moses Itauma is Great Company.Moses Itauma is in Great Company.If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaingAnd if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk THE CREDITSExecutive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerProducer: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-Hankins & Alex ReedVideo: Josh BennettSocial Media: Laura Coughlan & Kiera MaloneyAudio: Rafi Amsili Geovannetti Great Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
So many of us grew up watching Fearne Cotton on children's TV and then later listening to her on Radio 1. She's a broadcasting icon, bestselling author and someone I've looked up to for such a long time. At just 15, Fearne was thrust into the public eye when she began her TV career on Disney Club. With that came a huge pressure to be liked and she felt like she needed to change parts of her personality to fit in and keep people happy. In this conversation, she opens up about how, despite her success, she often felt she didn't deserve the opportunities she was given. In this episode, Fearne shares:How she has learned to let go of people pleasingHer 10 year battle with anxiety which forced her to step away from live radio and TVHow she began working on TV aged just 15 Working with incredible artists like Eminem and Amy Winehouse Why it's important to push boundaries and care less about being likeableThis conversation is an important reminder that when you stop worrying so much about what other people think of you, you give space for the real you to shine.Fearne Cotton is Great Company. If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast Jamie - @jamielaing And if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk THE CREDITS Executive Producer: Ewan Newbigging-ListerProducer: Magda Cassidy & Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsEditor Producer: Kat MilsomVideo: Jake Ji & Josh BennettSocial Media: Anthony Barter & Amber HouriganAudio: Rafi Amsili Geovannetti Great Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In Part Two of Clint's conversation with David Aaker – the “Father of Modern Branding,” Vice Chairman at Prophet, and bestselling author of 18 books – David explains how organizations can uncover powerful stories inside their companies and use them to shape culture, build trust, and strengthen their brands.David shares practical ways leaders can find and develop signature stories, including creating story banks, identifying meaningful customer and employee experiences, and even building long-term social programs that bring purpose and energy to a brand.He also discusses why many companies struggle with storytelling, how B2B organizations often strip the emotion and tension out of their best stories, and why internal storytelling can be one of the most powerful tools for shaping company culture.Throughout the conversation, David highlights memorable real-world examples from companies like Dove, Salesforce, Nordstrom, Zappos, Barclays, and Haier, showing how a single compelling story can define a brand for decades.This is the second part of a two-part conversation. Topics Covered:How companies can uncover and build a bank of signature storiesWhy social programs can create powerful brand narrativesThe impact of purpose-driven branding (including Dove's Real Beauty campaign)Salesforce's “1-1-1” model and building social impact into a company from day oneWhy storytelling is essential for building internal culture and employee engagementCommon mistakes companies make when trying to tell their storiesWhy many B2B companies unintentionally strip the power out of their own storiesFamous customer-driven brand stories from Nordstrom and ZapposHow humor and storytelling improve team creativity and leadership effectivenessUsing stories to support facts, provide context, and persuade audiencesMemorable brand stories from Haier and Barclays that transformed perceptionLeadership insights on raising people's performance and building strong teamsLinks:David's company, Prophet - https://prophet.com/ David's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidaaker/ David's book, “Aaker on Branding” - https://bit.ly/40bgtGg
In case you missed it.......A bold merger sets a new standard for towing safety, training, and career growth. We bring together Cardinal Legacy Towing Group and the American Towing and Recovery Institute to create the American Towing and Recovery Training Division, headquartered in St. Louis with a permanent training facility on the way. From light-duty recoveries to EV incidents and fire and rescue coordination, we map out a practical plan to raise skills while protecting the people who step onto the shoulder every day.Curtis Barks joins us to share how consolidation can empower small operators without erasing local identity. We dig into real numbers—pay bumps around 18 to 21 percent, life and health insurance, dental and vision coverage, and 401(k) matches—and why scale helps beat soaring insurance costs. The conversation spans St. Louis, South Florida, and Kansas City, showing how shared dispatch, group buying, and open training days create a network where you can call for help, trade knowledge, and go home safe.Safety is the throughline. We talk about the move over mission, first-responder realities, and partnerships with Backstoppers and Guns & Hoses that support families and address trauma. Then we look ahead: a 10-acre campus designed for water scenarios, advanced recoveries, and comprehensive pathways for new entrants, veterans, and experienced hands who want to lead. With mentors like JT Reeser and Wes Wilburn, we're building a pipeline that treats towing as a skilled trade—respected, well paid, and ready for the next decade's challenges.If you care about professional training, fair pay, and getting every operator home at the end of the shift, this conversation is your roadmap. Subscribe, share with a teammate, and leave a review with the one scenario you want our training facility to simulate next. Your ideas will shape the curriculum we build together.
What happens when someone runs with a business idea they've heard as a thought experiment on a podcast? Can a business have an expletive in its name? And is it possible to run a business that sells a single very specific product?Episode SummaryOn this episode, I'm joined by Charlie Hurst, Tom Noble and Will Sudlow — the founders of Flat White or F*ck Off*, a coffee brand inspired by a thought experiment by friend of the show,Rory Sutherland. The concept is simple: sell one thing — flat whites — and if you want something else… the answer's in the name. ⚠️ *Given the name of the business, this episode contains a lot of swearing!Within four months of hearing the idea on Jamie Laing's Great Company podcast, they'd banded together — having never met but being isnpired to give the business a go — built a brand, grown an audience of tens of thousands, and served 1,500 flat whites in a single day at a London pop-up. Most people would've treated Rory's idea as an interesting thought experiment. But Charlie, Tom and Will decided — with Rory's blessing — to actually build it.In an extended conversation, we explore what it means to:Build a brand before you have a productGrow an audience before you open a shopShare your financials publiclyDeliberately polarise rather than pleaseDiscover why Charlie, Tom and Will spent £22,000 on a one-day loss-making pop-that served as a live experiment; part marketing, part proof of concept, part behavioural case study.We discuss why constraint can be liberating, why queues affect perceived quality, how social proof shapes demand, and why narrowing your audience can be more powerful than trying to attract everyone.This isn't just a story about coffee. It's about conviction, creative constraint and what happens when you deliberately ignore conventional business wisdom.Guest Bios Charlie HurstDesigner and brand builder. Charlie created the original visual identity for Flat White or F*ck Off after seeing Rory's idea online.Tom NobleEntrepreneur and digital builder. Tom documented the entire journey in public, helping grow the brand's audience before a single coffee was sold.Will SudlowCo-founder of experiential agency The Impossible. Will brought production expertise to turn the idea into a large-scale pop-up event.AI-Generated Timestamped Summary00:00 – From Thought Experiment to Real Business: why this is more than a coffee story. 03:00 – Hearing Rory's Idea: how Charlie, Tom and Will discovered the concept and decided to act on it.08:00 – Building in Public: growing an audience before having a physical product; documenting everything online.15:00 – One Product Only: why selling just flat whites is a strategic constraint — and a behavioural signal. 25:00 – The Pop-Up Experiment: erving 1,500 coffees in a day; spending £27,000 as a marketing investment.35:00 – Polarisation & Backlash: criticism, online sceptics and why not being for everyone is the point.50:00 – Perception, Queues & Behaviour: what they learned about speed, quality signals and social proof.01:05:00 – Risk, Conviction & Entrepreneurship: why building something in public is both terrifying and liberating.01:20:00 – What Happens Next: scaling, experimentation and staying true to the core idea. LinksRory on Jamie Laing's Great Company podcast - https://shows.acast.com/great-company/episodes/rory-sutherland Flat White or F*ck Off - https://flatwhiteorfckoff.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/flatwhiteorfckoff/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@flatwhiteorfckoff/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/flat-white-or-fck-off/ The co-foundersTom on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasnoble1992/ Charlie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-hurst-715364150/Will on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/willsudlow/Ask The Impossible - https://asktheimpossible.com/Rory's appearances on this show:https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/rory-sutherland-on-compliance/ https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/rory-sutherland-paul-craven-on-alchemy-magic/ https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/gerald-ashley-rory-sutherland/ https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/rory-sutherland-gerald-ashley-paul-craven-at-abbey-road-part-one/
Most business owners chase the next strategy, marketing idea, or equipment upgrade, but Good to Great teaches a simple truth: first who, then what. In this episode, Brian shares why the right people matter more than the perfect plan and breaks down the 3-circle framework of Passion, Excellence, and Profit. If you want a stronger team, better customers, and real momentum, this one's for you. LeanScaper Revenue Intensive (Scottsdale, AZ Jan 20 & 21): https://leanscaper.com/events GROW 2026 - February 10-12 Dallas, TX: https://hubs.li/Q03Ybxs10 LMN & Coffee - https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89495679453?pwd=m0wKa6prJWrARKClJKolBaJjl00OYn.1 Coast Pay Fuel Card Webinar registration: https://www.lawntrepreneuracademy.com/coastpay-webinar-registration-1
My guest today is Henry Ellenbogen, founder and Managing Partner of Durable Capital Partners. Henry built his reputation at T. Rowe Price, where he led the New Horizons Fund and turned it into one of the best-performing small-cap growth portfolios in the country. In 2019, he left to start Durable. His philosophy is grounded in a simple belief that great investing is about understanding people and change. Henry has spent his career studying the rare 1% of companies that drive nearly all long-term returns . Durable's edge comes from being able to tell the difference between a company that is failing and one that is transforming. Henry often talks about “Act II” teams – founders who take the lessons from their first company and apply them to a new frontier. Durable itself is his Act II. In our latest Colossus profile, Managing Editor Dom Cooke traces Henry's story and specifically how he became one of the most influential investors of the 21st century, having learned from founders like Jeff Bezos and John Malone in the early part of his career. I always hear the same thing from founders who've met Henry: “he understood my business faster than anyone”. The thing that sticks with me from our conversation and Dom's profile is just how much he loves investing. For the full show notes, transcript, and links to mentioned content, check out the episode page here. ----- This episode is brought to you by Ramp. Ramp's mission is to help companies manage their spend in a way that reduces expenses and frees up time for teams to work on more valuable projects. Go to ramp.com/invest to sign up for free and get a $250 welcome bonus. ----- This episode is brought to you by Ridgeline. Ridgeline has built a complete, real-time, modern operating system for investment managers. It handles trading, portfolio management, compliance, customer reporting, and much more through an all-in-one real-time cloud platform. Head to ridgelineapps.com to learn more about the platform. ----- This episode is brought to you by AlphaSense. AlphaSense has completely transformed the research process with cutting-edge AI technology and a vast collection of top-tier, reliable business content. Invest Like the Best listeners can get a free trial now at Alpha-Sense.com/Invest and experience firsthand how AlphaSense and Tegus help you make smarter decisions faster. ----- Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com). Show Notes: (00:00:00) Welcome to Invest Like The Best (00:04:00) Meet Henry Ellenbogen (00:05:29) Origin of Henry's Investment Philosophy (00:08:12) Identifying the 1% of Great Companies (00:12:53) Patterns of Successful Compounders (00:20:34) Act Two Entrepreneurs and Teams (00:25:43) Building Durable Capital: Henry's Act Two (00:30:11) Dollar Cost Averaging Up Strategy (00:35:02) Market Structure and Agency Problems (00:38:26) Impact of Quant Funds and Short-Term Capital (00:42:21) AI as Transformative Change (00:45:30) How Affirm Uses AI (00:48:23) Amazon's Cost Curve Advantage (00:51:48) Leadership Through Change (00:56:54) Robotics and Physical Kaizen (01:01:29) Favorite Types of Competitive Advantages (01:05:25) Investment Memo Structure (01:09:21) 2022 CEO Tour on Market Transition (01:19:18) Hiring and Developing Talent (01:24:09) Making Colleagues Better (01:27:56) Being Intellectually Honest in Investing (01:29:11) Lessons from Success (01:33:04) Case for Going Public (01:36:32) Netflix Transition Example (01:41:29) Two Types of Greatness (01:45:42) The Kindest Thing