Podcasts about great companies

AI may be transformational, but that does not mean every great company needs to be an AI company. In this episode of Technoventure, Peter High speaks with Matt Witheiler, Head of Late-Stage Growth at Wellington Management, about how one of the world's largest asset managers evaluates companies approaching the public markets. Matt explains why valuation risk becomes critical at the late stage, what separates durable businesses from short-term trades, and how Wellington thinks about AI across technology, healthcare, fintech, and consumer markets. He also shares why today's AI cycle feels different from the dot-com era, how companies can prepare for the rhythms of the public market, and why the growth of late-stage private investing has created a dramatically larger opportunity set. Listen for a long-term investor's perspective on AI, growth, and building enduring public companies.

What if you're building a successful company—but accidentally building a life you don't actually want?In this episode of Liftoff with Keith Newman, Keith sits down with Charles T. Lee, founder of Ideation, to explore what it really means to build a successful business while protecting your health, relationships, purpose, and personal well-being.Charles shares why founders should:Slow down to create space for better ideas Invest in people, not just technology Understand their personal rhythms and energy Let go of ego and focus on building the right team Make time for reflection and personal development Stop comparing themselves to other founders Think about what "enough" and success really mean They also discuss how AI can give founders something increasingly valuable: more time to focus on the human side of leadership. The goal isn't simply to build a great company.It's to build a great company without losing the life you're building it for.Sponsor Info: We are strategic business advisors with decades of leadership experience and a proven track record of driving businesses' growth. We specialize in creating custom-tailored strategies to introduce your company, drive growth, build leadership teams, and ensure companies implement appropriate compensation programs. Our mission is to utilize our expansive network to benefit your company https://www.compass-strategic-advisors.com/Connect with Charles: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlestlee/ Website: https://theideation.com/ Book: http://www.designyourgoodlife.com/ Subscribe for more founder insights and hit the bell for notifications! Follow us on our channels for exclusive startup content and behind-the-scenes insights from interviews like this one. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3cFpLXfYvcUsxvsT9MwyAD?si=f5a14e779777487d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/liftoff-with-keith-newman/id1560219589 Substack: https://keithnewman.substack.com/ Newman Media Studios: https://newmanmediastudios.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/liftoffwithkeithFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/KeithNewman285Website: https://liftoffwithkeith.com/Want to build a high-growth company without falling into the administration trap? Subscribe to Liftoff with Keith and follow for weekly conversations with the founders building what's next.#LiftoffPodcast #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Founders #BusinessGrowth #AI #WorkLifeBalance

Frank Warren is one of the biggest names in British boxing, having promoted some of the greatest fighters the sport has ever seen. I'm a huge boxing fan, so sitting down with Frank was a dream come true. And his life is like a Guy Ritchie movie… Frank grew up on a council estate in North London, left school at 14 and fell into boxing promotion almost by accident. He went on to build an incredible career, only to be shot and nearly killed at the height of his success. From surviving that to promoting some of the biggest nights in boxing, Frank has seen it all. In this conversation, Frank shares: The moment he was shot and nearly killed in 1989 Why signing Ricky Hatton was one of his proudest achievements His thoughts on how ‘influencer-boxing' is changing the sport What happened when he got punched by Mike Tyson Frank is a reminder that resilience isn't about avoiding setbacks - it's about what you build after them.Frank Warren 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: Harry SawkinsSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili Geovannetti Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Usually, Great Moments is all about the advice and takeaways from our amazing guests. But this week it's a little different…I wanted to share part of my conversation with a good friend of mine, Jack Whitehall. Jack didn't come on Great Company because he wanted to… in fact, he only agreed to do it because he owed me a BIG favour.In this Great Moment, Jack reveals exactly what that favour was and what it's really like to work with his father, the unintentionally hilarious, Michael Whitehall. 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.

Ben Zand is an award-winning documentary filmmaker and journalist whose work has taken him to some of the darkest corners of the world.Ben immerses himself in the darkness, getting close to people living on the edges of society to understand more about their lives. His recent documentaries have explored some of the most controversial topics of our time, from cults and trad wives to the men shaping the manosphere, and those being influenced by it.In this episode, Ben shares:What it was like being held at gunpoint by a kidnap gangWhy looksmaxxing is the scariest part of the manosphere His experience of meeting truly evil peopleWhy people are drawn to cults Ben is a reminder to stay curious, ask questions and want to understand more about the world we live in.Ben Zand 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: Harry SawkinsSenior Social Media Manager: Laura CoughlanAudio: Rafi Amsili Geovannetti Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Neil Patrick Harris is an Emmy and Tony award-winning actor, and for many of us, he'll forever be the LEGEND-wait for it-DARY Barney Stinson from How I Met Your Mother. Born in New Mexico to parents who were both lawyers, Neil was the first in his family to go into showbiz. At just 12, he got his breakthrough role in Clara's Heart alongside Whoopi Goldberg. From there, the rest is history…In this episode, Neil shares: Why he never thought he'd become a dad How he was forced to come outWhat it was really like to host the Oscars in 2015 How much of Barney Stinson is him and what HIMYM taught him Neil is a reminder that you never stop learning throughout your career. There is always something new to discover… and how incredible is that? Neil Patrick Harris is Great Company. Neil's latest film, Sunny Dancer, is out on the 14th August #sunnydancermovieIf 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 Geovannetti Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Megan McKenna gave us some of reality TV's most iconic moments on TOWIE, Celebrity Big Brother and Ex on the Beach. Since then, she's reinvented herself, building a successful music career and sharing wholesome cooking and lifestyle content enjoyed by millions online.But behind the scenes, Megan has been navigating something incredibly difficult. She was robbed by masked men in terrifying circumstances that left her feeling unsafe in the UK.Megan hasn't spoken publicly about what happened to her. Until now. She joined me on Great Company for an exclusive conversation about the night her worst fear came true.In this conversation, Megan shares:- The terrifying robbery that changed her life- The lasting impact of trauma and learning to feel safe again- Reinventing herself after reality TV- Her fertility journey and becoming a mumMegan is truly a beautiful soul and I'm so grateful she trusted us with her story.Megan McKenna 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 & Emma Rae Woodhouse Assistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Joe Ferrari 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.

Luke Evans is an actor and singer who began his career on stage. He's since starred in over 40 movies including Beauty and the Beast, Fast and Furious 6 and The Girl on the Train.Luke came on Great Company at the start of last year and his story is just incredible. Raised as a Jehovah's Witness, in a strict religious community, Luke knew his true identity was in conflict with his beliefs. After persistent bullying throughout his schooling, at age 16, he left home, and his new life began. In this Great Moment, Luke discuss his upbringing in Wales, his sexuality and how he seized the opportunities he really wanted. 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.

Michelle Kennedy is the founder and CEO of Peanut, one of the fastest growing social apps for women.I started Great Company because I wanted to connect with people again. Despite being more connected than ever online, many of us have never felt lonelier.That's how Michelle felt after becoming a mum to her son, Finn. Instead of accepting that loneliness, she decided to build the community she wished she'd had. That's how Peanut was born.Since launching in 2017, Peanut has grown to over 5 million registered users, offering women a safe space to ask questions, find support and build connections through every stage of life.In this conversation, Michelle shares:Her journey from law to dating app companiesWhy she left Bumble to start her app, PeanutWhat she thinks makes a great leader and entrepreneurHow Peanut grew from an idea into a community of over 5 million womenThe one piece of advice she'd give every founderMichelle is proof that some of the best businesses start by solving problems you've lived yourself.Michelle Kennedy 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 CREDITSProducers: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsVideo: Josh Bennett & Emma GillSenior 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.

Lee Caraher, CEO of Double Forte, is a widely acclaimed communication strategist known for her practical solutions to big problems. Her company works with some of the top consumer lifestyle, digital life, and wine and spirits brands in the country at many stages, from startups to mid-cap public, private and B-Corp companies. She is a straight-talker who doesn't hold too many punches, although she does her best to be pleasant about it. Her big laugh and sense of humor have gotten her out of a lot of trouble. She's also known as the "team-whisperer" for her practical approach to building great, positive, high producing work teams. Lee's the author of Millennials & Management, based on her experience with failing and then succeeding at retaining Millennials, and The Boomerang Principle about building lifetime employee loyalty.   CONNECT WITH Lee Caraher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leecaraher/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leecaraher/?hl=en Website: https://leecaraher.com/   JOIN THE FIGHT AGAINST FOOD INSECURITY    Join the fight against food insecurity here in the U.S. DONATE TODAY at Meet the Streets Outreach, INC. to fight hunger!     Meet the Streets Outreach provides essential support to Houston's food-insecure communities by offering over 2,100 hot meals each month. With your help, we can continue to serve those in need. Your support ensures that we can continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Houston's most vulnerable residents. Thank you for considering this opportunity to invest in the well-being of our community.   Food Insecure Households For many families in the U.S., the past several years have been difficult. Higher food prices, economic instability, and other factors have made providing for a family even harder. 1 in 8 households in the U.S. is food insecure. That means these families don't have enough money or resources to buy enough food for everyone in their household. As recently as 2022, 7.3 million children lived in food insecure households. Also, 16.9% of children live in poverty.   SNAP Benefits More than 22 million U.S. households use SNAP benefits to help with food costs, as of April 2023. Sometimes known as "food stamps," SNAP is the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. People who receive SNAP benefits can use it to buy groceries, seeds, and plants for food. SNAP cannot be used to purchase hot food or household items like cleaning supplies, vitamins, or diapers.   CONNECT WITH Cedric Francis Website: https://www.lead2greatness.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cedricbfrancis X: https://twitter.com/cedricbfrancis Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cedricbfrancis/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cedric-b-francis-a0544037/

Simon Pegg is a legend of the entertainment industry, with a career spanning more than 30 years.Growing up in Gloucester with a cinema just down the road, Simon's deep love of films was fostered early on. From Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz and The World's End to Star Trek and the Mission: Impossible franchise, he's built one of the most beloved bodies of work.I grew up watching Simon's films, so getting the chance to meet him was surreal. We talked about everything from working with Tom Cruise and J.J. Abrams to our shared love of horror movies and what it means to be a good dad.In this conversation, Simon shares:Why he'll never make a sequel to the Cornetto TrilogyBeing the child of divorce and what that's taught him as a parent His favourite thing about his best friend, Nick Frost The moment he got the call for Mission: Impossible Simon is a reminder that turning a childhood passion into a lifelong career isn't about luck, it's about never letting go of the thing you love.Simon Pegg is Great Company. 'The Undeclared War' is available NOW on C4/ On Demand and on Peacock/ NBC in the US from 27th August 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.

In this week's episode, I answer worldbuilding questions about my setting of Andomhaim, and discuss the future of THE GHOSTS series. This coupon code will get you 25% off the ebooks in The Ghosts series at my Payhip store: JULYGHOSTS The coupon code is valid through August 10, 2026. So if you need a new ebook this summer, we've got you covered! TRANSCRIPT 00:00:00 Introduction and Writing Updates Hello, everyone. Welcome to Episode 313 of The Pulp Writer Show. My name is Jonathan Moeller. Today is July the 24th, 2026 and today we're answering world-building questions about Andomhaim, which is the setting of my Frostborn, Sevenfold Sword, Dragontiarna, Dragonskull, Shield War, and Blades of Ruin series. We also have one bonus world-building question about the Caina series. Before we get into all that, we will have Coupon of the Week and a progress update on my current writing, publishing, and audiobook projects. Let's start with Coupon of the Week. This week's coupon code will get you 25% off the ebooks in The Ghosts series at my Payhip store. That code is JULYGHOSTS. As always, the coupon code and the link to my Payhip store will be available in the show notes for this episode. This coupon code will be valid through August the 10th, 2026, so if you need a new ebook for this summer, we have got you covered. Now let's have an update on my current writing, publishing, and audiobook projects. I'm pleased to report I am done with the rough draft of Cloak of Frost. It was just slightly over 100,000 words. Now I am writing a bonus short story called Metal Soldiers, and [newsletter] subscribers will get a free ebook copy of Metal Soldiers when Cloak of Frost comes out, which if all goes well, should be sometime in August. So I think this is an excellent time, therefore, to subscribe to my new release newsletter. My secondary project is Blade of Visions, and I am 11,000 words into that. There's also a good deal of news about audiobooks. Dragon-Mage, as narrated by Leanne Woodward, is finished and is rolling out to the various stores right now. As of this recording, you can get it at my own Payhip store, Google Play, and Kobo (with more stores soon to follow). Recording on Stealth and Spells Online: Final Quest is very nearly done, and I hope to have more news on that soon. Brad Wills is currently working on Blade of Thieves and Hollis McCarthy is recording Cloak of Worlds. So we should have a wide variety of audiobooks coming for you soon. 00:02:00 Questions about Caina Before we get to our main topic, we have a bonus question about Caina. When I said my next project was going to be Cloak of Frost, I got a couple of questions like this: Just wondering when/if there will be another Caina novel to look forward to? The answer is not right now, but maybe later. I am glad and appreciative that people want more Caina books. That said, I don't want more than three unfinished series at any one time, and I've got three right now with Blades of Ruin, Cloak Mage, and Half-Elven Thief. So I'm not starting anything new until one of the three is done. If you reach the end of Ghost in the Siege, which is the latest current Caina book, you know that the series was at a pretty significant stopping point. If I want to keep going, I need to think long and hard about how to do it right. I do have a couple of ideas, but I need to think about them some more. It's almost like we'd have to shift to a slightly different genre of fantasy than the Caina books have been previously. The tricky part is Caina has changed a great deal since Child of the Ghosts. The tricky part in that is that sequels in a long-running series need to be more of the same, but also something different. There have been 35 Caina novels. So I've done that quite a bit. But Caina has had some experiences that have very much changed her life. To use a rough comparison, it's like she became a justice on the US Supreme Court or the governor of one of the five largest US states in the sense that once you've had change in your life that significant, your life will never be the same afterwards. And without spoilers, Caina had a shift that big at the end of Ghost in the Siege. So more Caina is definitely a possibility, but I need to think about it some more and it definitely won't be before 2027 until I finish one of my three currently unfinished series. 00:03:35 Main Topic of the Week: Andomhaim Worldbuilding Questions Now onto our main topic, which is I had some world-building questions about Andomhaim from Frostborn come in lately. So I thought I would answer them here. Question #1: Why hasn't the Heptarchy invaded Andomhaim again? The answer is money, basically. Remember that the ultimate purpose of the Heptarchy is to provide an endless supply of sacrificial victims for the Seven Temples' altars so the seven urdmordar who rule the Heptarchy can endlessly feed. These seven urdmordar don't have much interest in the day-to-day governance, so their spiderling priestesses essentially run the Heptarchy as an exceptionally malignant theological bureaucracy. However, while the priestesses are evil, they're efficient and very good at their jobs. In practice, the Heptarchy tends to operate more like an imperial confederation or a very loose federal government than an actual empire. Kingdoms, tribes, and city states have a great deal of autonomy so long as one, taxes are paid in time and two, sacrificial victims are taken to the temples on time. To help encourage this, all the various local rulers in the Heptarchy tend to have priestess advisors who make sure that the rulers make the "correct" decisions. So when things go awry, the Seven Temples have a wide array of tools to deal with difficulties, from assassinating and replacing truculent rulers with more tractable successors all the way up to exterminating entire populations and settling new colonists upon the depopulated lands. The difficulty of the Heptarchy is that the seven urdmordars are gluttons and gluttony is impossible to satiate. So when the Heptarchy learned of Andomhaim and the possibility of an entirely new land to conquer and feed upon, of course they had to conquer it. The priestesses built an enormous fleet and gathered a vast army and sent it three and a half thousand miles across the ocean to Andomhaim. Of course, if you've read the Dragontiarna series, you know that this didn't go well. The Heptarchy seized the Isle of Kordain and had early successes in Andomhaim, but Agravhask, the commander of the invasion force, was secretly a disciple of the Warden of Urd Morlemoch, and he seized control of the Heptarchy force and used it to further the Warden's goals. The Visionary foresaw this happening, but didn't care because it gave her an opportunity to try and capture her old enemy, Tarmyntir. So the Heptarchy didn't conquer Andomhaim, and then 10 years later they lost control of the Isle of Kordain, their only stronghold near Andomhaim. To put this situation in contemporary terms, this is a significant geopolitical setback or to put it in popular vernacular, it's "taking a massive L." The Seven Temples spent a colossal fortune on the invasion force and in return got back exactly nothing. Even evil sorcerous empires are bound to the laws of economics. In The Ghosts books, the Umbarian Order failed to figure this out. And it would take a while for the Heptarchy to pay for and assemble another invasion force of that size. And since the first invasion force had failed, there wasn't much appetite for pulling together a second one. So now the official policy of the Heptarchy towards Andomhaim is quiet CIA-style subversion. The Spider Cult was founded to secretly bring nobles and wealthy merchants to the worship of the Seven Temples. It might take a century or so, but the plan is to eventually place a spider cultist on the throne of Andomhaim and then send a sympathetic ruler an army to back him or her up. Of course, the Brotherhood of the Ravens is aware of this and has been fighting the Spider Cult in the shadows. So that is why the Heptarchy hasn't tried to invade Andomhaim again- it costs too much, the outcome is uncertain, and the priestesses have decided a careful subversion (which costs much less than an invasion) will work out better in the long run. Question #2: Is Blades of Ruin really inspired by the English Civil War of 1138 to 1153 AD? Yes. Why? Because alcohol and boats are a very bad combination. In the 12th century, the Kings of England were also the Dukes of Normandy and were more interested in Normandy than in England, so they spent a great deal of time on both sides of the English Channel. In November of 1120, King Henry I wanted to return to England, but allowed much of his retinue to travel on another ship. That included his heir and only legitimate son William, several of his bastard children, and numerous high ranking members of his court. Everyone on William's ship was quite drunk, including the crew, and decided it would be a good idea to try and overtake King Henry's ship on the English Channel at night in November. Remember how I said alcohol and boats were a bad combination? William decided that he wanted to overtake his father's ship, and since a significant portion of everyone on his ship was drunk, they ended up crashing into some rocks, the ship sank, and most of the passengers and crew drowned, including William. For Henry, this was an absolute disaster since he had put a lot of work into setting up William as his heir. Henry then settled on his daughter Matilda as his heir and forced his vassals to take oaths so they would support her as his successor. When Henry died in 1135, Matilda assumed the throne, but her cousin Stephen of Blois seized the crown instead. Many of the lords of England were leery at the idea of a female monarch and Stephen was amiable and well-liked. Matilda was also imperious and had a knack for offending people at the worst possible time. The resultant civil war became known as the Anarchy and it ebbed and flowed until 1153. Both Stephen and Matilda held the upper hand at various times, but could never manage to achieve a total victory. Many of the nobles went local warlord, raising their own forces and building their own castles to protect themselves from their neighbors, which led to widespread chaos and violence. Finally, by the end of the 1140s, most of the nobles were sick of the war and put increasing pressure on Stephen and Matilda to find some sort of negotiated solution. Matilda's vigorous son Henry began to insert himself and he convinced Stephen to name him as his heir. When Stephen died, Henry became the undisputed king in 1154 and the war was over. Henry II would prove to be a vigorous king, but his inability to share power with his sons would cause him a lot of trouble in the final years of his reign. So you can see how Zelos Pendragon and Rhamnousia Pendragon from Blades of Ruin are very loosely based on Stephen and Matilda, though with some differences. Stephen and Matilda were cousins while Zelos and Rhamnousia are half siblings. For that matter, Henry I died of natural causes and was not assassinated by a sinister cult of sorcerers who wanted to engineer a civil war for nefarious purposes. Question #3: Were the Free Companies in Blades of Ruin inspired by Glenn Cook's The Black Company? First of all, The Black Company is a fantasy classic and everyone should read it. I think it's even in Kindle Unlimited at the moment. But the Free Companies and Blades of Ruin weren't inspired by The Black Company. They were inspired by the Hundred Years' War between England and France from 1337 AD to 1453 AD. Medieval warfare relied heavily on knights and vessels, but it always employed mercenaries. One of the problems in the Anarchy were the large number of Flemish mercenaries infesting in the country, who frequently turned full brigand. But feudalism was based on holding land and as the Middle Ages progressed, money and the cash economy became more and more important while knighthood became increasingly performative and ceremonial. Professional soldiers were generally more useful and more reliable than arrogant and headstrong knights. These trends played a big part in the Hundred Years' War and every time the kings of England campaigned in France, they frequently hired mercenaries and they generally let the mercenaries rampage through the French countryside and plunder whatever they wanted since that was cheaper than actually feeding them. The Free Companies really got going after the Battle of Poitiers in 1356. The French were decisively defeated, King John II of France went back to England as a prisoner, and the national government in France essentially collapsed. The English discharged many of their mercenaries, who formed into companies and began systematically looting the French countryside. When official hostilities broke out between the English and the French again, the English hired the companies back. As the fortunes of France and England waxed and waned during the war, some of the companies wandered into Italy and made good money playing the Italian city states against each other. One of the most famous of the companies was The White Company, commanded by Sir John Hawkwood. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle famously killed off Sherlock Holmes so he could turn his attention to writing historical fiction about the White Company. This was somewhat less than financially successful, so Doyle went back to writing Holmes after a few years, though he always regarded his historical novels as better than his Holmes stories. Rannister and the Grand Company in Blades of Ruin were loosely based off of Werner von Urslingen and the Great Company. Von Urslingen's personal model was "The enemy of God, the enemy of piety, and the enemy of mercy." He apparently had those actual words inscribed on his breastplate. The Great Company spent a lot of time fighting in Italy and extorting money from the city-states until the White Company defeated them at the Battle of Canturino in 1363. In real life, of course, the Free Companies did not have orcs in the ranks or sorcerous advisors. However, the real life Free Companies were just as brutal and rapacious as those in the Blades of Ruin series, sometimes often more so, since they were essentially organized bands of brigands. Eventually in the wake of the Hundred Years' War, stronger national governments arose in England and France, and the concept of the Free Companies gradually became obsolete. Kings found their own professional armies to be much more reliable than the Free Companies, though of course the idea of mercenaries never went away and remains to this day. Those standing armies would cause their own problems throughout history. Question #4: How did the warlocks of Vhalorast conquer Urd Maelwyn if the dark elves are so much more powerful than orcs? Two reasons. First, the Warlocks of Vhalorast were a lot more powerful than anyone suspected. The Sovereign and the high Maledicti priests were strong enough to keep the Vhalorasti warlocks in check and compel them to obedience since saying no to someone like Khurazalin from Sevenfold Sword was a spectacularly bad idea. But after the final defeat of the Sovereign, the Vhalorasti orcs were free to do as they liked. Second, the dark elves are chronically unable to work together without betraying each other constantly. The dark elven love of cruelty often manifests as a love of treachery, which frequently leads them to making very stupid decisions. In real life, you often see people who are addicted to various lusts, vices, and addictions making bad decisions, and the dark elves often took that up to 11. By contrast, while the warlocks of Vhalorast are very bad people, they are orderly and organized and they don't often betray each other. Indeed, "brother and sister warlocks" are supposed to extend respect to each other and the Council of Masters harshly punishes anyone who violates certain rules of conduct. So the warlocks of Vhalorast can cooperate a lot more effectively than the dark elves. To put it in Dungeons & Dragons terms, the dark elves are chaotic evil (sometimes urging on stupid evil), but the Vhalorasti warlocks are firmly lawful evil. When the Visage seized control of Urd Maelwyn, she thought to rebuild the Sovereign's Empire and forced a confrontation with Vhalorast. That ended with the Vhalorasti orcs and Warlocks destroying the Vistage's army, seizing Urd Maelwyn and taking the Visage herself back to Vhalorast in chains. Of course, the warlocks had help from the Disciples of Vhalzarok, but more on that will be revealed in later books of Blades of Ruin. Question #5: Why aren't there any dwarves in Owyllain? That is because none of them settled in Owyllain. The dwarves first came to the Frostborn world slightly before the urdmordar. About 15,000 years ago, the dark elves were frantically summoning new kindreds to throw in battle against the high elves. The dwarves came to Andomhaim somewhere near the Torn Hills close to Urd Morlemoch. The dwarfs who sided with the dark elves became the dvargir and probably began cheating the dark elves at every turn because they were better organized. The dvargir became to the dark elves the sort of military subcontractor who overcharges, over promises, and then drastically under-delivers while keeping to the letter of the contract. The dwarves founded nine different underground kingdoms and most of them are relatively close to Andomhaim. Only three of them still survive to the modern period. Question #6: Why aren't there any orcish Swordbearers or Soulbearers? For two reasons. First, Ardrhythain would be reluctant to make soulblades for orcs because orcs already have battle fury and the soulblades inspire a hatred of dark magic in their bearers. There's a chance an orc with a soulblade would go absolutely berserk when fighting an urvaalg or a dark wizard. Second, and this is the more important reason, the orcs didn't actually ask. Due to their threefold law, the high elves are very limited in how they can interact with other kindreds. Ardrhythain created the soulblades and found the Magistri among the humans of Andomhaim because the Keeper of Andomhaim of the time specifically asked. Ridmark was only able to command the high elves of Cathair Ereniel in The Shield War because he was the Shield Knight. The high elves can only help if asked and then only provide the specific help requested if it is in accord with the threefold law. The temptation within them to simply rule over weaker kindreds for their own good is very strong, but if they do that, they turn into dark elves. To get around that problem is one of the reasons Ardrhythain created the Swordbearers. Andomhaim definitely would've been destroyed centuries ago if not for the Order of the Soulblade. That's also the reason Ardrhythain created the Guardians, to help protect both nations and places of power that the high elves otherwise could not protect directly. Question #7: Is Andomhaim very different in Talembur's time than it was in Ridmark's? Andomhaim is at a slightly more advanced technological level as of the Blades of Ruin series, but it is a good deal richer and more prosperous than it was in Ridmark's time. Part of that is that Accolon Pendragon' successors ruled wisely and well, and Andomhaim avoided the sort of destructive civil war that is currently afflicting Owyllain. Andomhaim also hasn't had to face an external war on the scale of the Frostborn or the Heptarchy in that time. Granted, there have been wars with outside adversaries like the Mhorites, but nothing like the Heptarchy War. Additionally, adding the Isle of Kordain to the realm and the discovery of the sea compass let Andomhaim's mariners travel a lot farther and more reliably than they could before. Ships of Andomhaim have made their way to various island kingdoms south of the Isle of Kordain and begun a lively trade with them. This has brought new prosperity to Andomhaim. Granted, this might cause long-term problems. The coast of Andomhaim and the cities of Cintarra and Tarlion are getting a good deal richer and more powerful than the rest of the realm. A clever adversary like the Spider-Cult might find a way to use that to their advantage. And finally, Question #8: Did Calliande actually create the fountain in Blade of Thieves? No. It's just a legend that grew up around her. Neither Ridmark nor Calliande ever came near Stonegate during the War of the Seven Swords. That was why Ridmark didn't like bards very much, since they always embellished and made things up. So those are some recent Andomhaim questions I've received and I hope I answered those questions. So that's it for this week. Thank you for listening to The Pulp Writer Show. I hope you found the show useful. A reminder that you can listen to all the back episodes at https://thepulpwritershow.com. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave your review on your podcasting platform of choice. Stay safe and stay healthy, and we'll see you all next week.  

In this episode, AJ Vaughan shares the leadership failure that shaped the rest of his career. After building his first company at 19, rapid growth, poor communication, and an unwillingness to truly listen led to the collapse of the business—and a lesson that continues to influence how he leads today. The conversation explores what organizational alignment actually means beyond mission statements and values on the wall. AJ explains why misalignment between leadership, product, marketing, sales, and operations silently erodes trust, performance, and employee wellbeing, while sharing practical systems he's built to create transparency, reward difficult conversations, and help teams solve problems before they become crises. If you're a founder, executive, HR leader, or people manager, this conversation offers a compelling framework for building organizations where employees feel heard, leaders communicate honestly, and business performance improves because people come first—not in theory, but in practice.

Vivian Tu is the founder and CEO of Your Rich BFF, a multi-media company on a mission to make money advice accessible to young people.Vivian started her career on Wall Street before leaving to set up Your Rich BFF, where she now shares bite-sized lessons on personal finance with millions of people around the world. She's grown a community of more than 8 million people helping each other get rich and stay rich.In this conversation, Vivian shares:Why we're all so uncomfortable talking about moneyHow to navigate finances in relationshipsThe biggest money mistakes people makeHow to ask for a pay rise... and actually get itVivian reminds us that financial freedom isn't about earning the most money. It's about making smarter choices with what you have and learning how to make your money work harder for you.Vivian Tu is Great Company.Check out Vivian's podcast Networth & Chill HEREIf 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 CREDITSProducers: Helen BurkeAssistant 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.

Thank you for all of your support. Please let us know what you think about our podcast and what topic you may want to hear from us. Leaders, Lead Well!Artificial intelligence is transforming business at an unprecedented pace—but is leadership evolving with it?This conversation isn't about the technology itself. It's about what AI reveals in leadership. Discover why trust, character, emotional leadership, and organizational culture will matter more—not less—in an AI-driven future.If you're a leader navigating change, this episode will challenge you to think beyond automation and focus on what truly differentiates exceptional organizations: the people who lead them.In this episode of Mainline Executive Coaching ACT, Rich and Maikel explore one of today's most pressing leadership questions: Are organizations using AI to empower people, or simply to maximize efficiency? Leaders, Lead Well!Thank you to all of our listeners in over 140 countries and 1,600 cities worldwide, we greatly appreciate your support! We truly hope that what we bring to our listeners will improve your ability as leaders.Mainline Executive Coaching ACT has been recognized by FeedSpot as one of the top Executive Coaching Podcast in the world based on thousands of podcasts on the web and ranked by traffic, social media, followers & freshness.https://blog.feedspot.com/executive_coaching_podcasts/John Mattone Global:                                                                                                          https://johnmattone.com/Rich Baron:rbaron@richbaronexecutivecoaching.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-baron/rich@johnmattone.comMaikel Bailey:mbailey@intelligentleadershipec.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/maikelbailey/https://maikelbailey.com/

Tom Aspinall is the first British UFC Heavyweight Champion of the World. With 15 wins, including 11 by knockout, he's built a reputation as one of the most devastating finishers in the sport.I'm a huge UFC fan, so sitting down with Tom was a dream come true. From training as a kid in his Dad's MMA gym to becoming one of the biggest names in the UFC, his story is nothing short of incredible. In this conversation, Tom shares:What it was like stepping into the cage for his first fightThe scariest moments of his career so farHis thoughts on the drama between Eddie Hearn and Dana White What he's learnt as a father to a child with autismWhy being a dad is the most important role in his lifeTom was a reminder that some of life's biggest wins come from finding the courage to face the things that scare you the most.Tom Aspinall is Great Company.Check out Tom's podcast 'The Inner Game' 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 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.

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.

Welcome to the What's Next! Podcast with Tiffani Bova.    My guest is Eric Ries, someone who has changed the way founders and companies think about innovation, experimentation, and growth through The Lean Startup. After spending decades helping companies scale, Eric has started asking a very different question: why do so many successful companies slowly become the thing they once set out to disrupt? His new book, Incorruptible, explores this.   THIS EPISODE IS PERFECT FOR…founders, executives, and business leaders who want to build organizations that stay true to their mission as they grow.   TODAY'S MAIN MESSAGE…most companies don't lose their values overnight, they drift away from them one decision, one incentive, and one compromise at a time. Eric argues that this kind of organizational corruption isn't caused by bad people, but by systems that reward short-term thinking over long-term purpose. He explains why mission, governance, and incentives must work together if companies want to grow without losing what made them successful in the first place. Most importantly, he reminds us that building a great company isn't just about scaling but about creating an organization that can stay true to its purpose over time.   KEY TAKEAWAYS: • Organizational drift happens gradually, not all at once. • A mission should guide decisions long after a company begins to scale. • Long-term value is created by serving customers and employees first. • Great companies are intentionally built to resist corruption.   WHAT I LOVE MOST…Eric's bridge analogy perfectly captures the challenge leaders face. Corruption isn't inevitable, it happens when organizations are built with the wrong materials. Eric reminds us that leaders have the opportunity to design them differently from the start.   Running Time: 36:18   Subscribe on iTunes   Find Tiffani Online: LinkedIn Facebook X    Find Eric Online: LinkedIn Website How Is Incorruptible Going?   Eric's Book: Incorruptible: Why Good Companies Go Bad... and How Great Companies Stay Great  

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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