Big Shot
Big Shot
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Harley Finkelstein (Shopify) and David Segal (DAVIDsTEA) interview Jewish entrepreneurs and cultural icons, preserving their behind-the-scenes stories, mishaps, and wins. The podcast explores the wisdom and laughs that would emanate from the walls of Kosher delis, celebrating the people who shaped an entire generation.
Episoade
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How a 17-Year-Old From Tehran Turned $750 Into a Toy Empire | Isaac Larian 25.06.2026 1h 21minIsaac Larian is the founder and CEO of MGA Entertainment, the company behind Bratz, L.O.L. Surprise!, Little Tikes, and dozens of other iconic toy brands. But long before he built one of the largest private toy companies in the world, Isaac was a Jewish kid growing up in Tehran, where he faced antisemitism, bullying, and poverty. After arriving in America alone at 17 with just $753 in his pocket, Isaac worked the graveyard shift washing dishes while putting himself through college. He later built a successful electronics distribution business, became one of Nintendo's largest distributors, and eventually shifted into toys, where he created some of the most successful doll brands of the last two decades. In 2026, Isaac was inducted into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame in recognition of his transformative impact on the industry and his role in creating global brands including Bratz and L.O.L. Surprise!.In this episode of Big Shot, Harley Finkelstein and David Segal sit down with Isaac to discuss the experiences that shaped his relentless drive, the lessons he learned from failure, and the persistence that helped him build MGA Entertainment. They talk about his years in electronics, how he broke into Nintendo, why getting cut off led him into licensing, the creation of Bratz, the battle with Mattel, and why he believes fortune favors the bold.—In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(02:43) How Isaac's childhood experiences with antisemitism and poverty in Iran shaped him(14:27) Arriving in America at 17 with $753 and getting his first job(19:40) Why the survival instinct never leaves him(24:44) Why he studied civil engineering (27:05) How he got into mail order and shifted to electronics(36:58) How he learned to be a good storyteller (39:50) Becoming a distributor for Nintendo (49:53) Why he got cut out of Nintendo and shifted into licensing (53:45) Getting into the doll business (57:08) The creation of Bratz(1:02:46) Going all in on Bratz(1:05:50) The battle with Mattel and the toll it took on Isaac(1:13:23) How he built lasting business relationships(1:16:20) The case for crying as a show of strength (1:17:01) Why he loves his work and his advice for the next generation—Where To Find Isaac Larian:X: https://x.com/realIsaacLarianWebsite: https://www.mgae.comWhere To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
The Coney Island Kid Who Made Rocky, Goodfellas, and Raging Bull | Irwin Winkler 11.06.2026 1h 17minIrwin Winkler has spent more than six decades in Hollywood, producing films that have earned 52 Academy Award nominations and helped define generations of moviegoers. His credits include Rocky, Raging Bull, Goodfellas, The Right Stuff, and The Irishman, but the path that led to those films was anything but predictable.In this episode of Big Shot, hosts Harley Finkelstein and David Segal sit down with Irwin to look back on the twists, turns, relationships, and moments of good fortune that shaped his remarkable career. From the William Morris mailroom to launching an agency with Robert Chartoff, from representing Julie Christie to hearing Sylvester Stallone pitch Rocky, Irwin shares the stories behind a life spent at the center of the movie business.Along the way, he reflects on the people who changed his life, the opportunities he almost missed, and the unexpected chain of events that led from a kid growing up in Brooklyn to one of the most successful producers in Hollywood history.—In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(03:13) Growing up in Williamsburg, Brooklyn (07:11) Moving to the Sea Gate in Coney Island(08:26) Irwin's first attempt at NYU(10:22) Why he enlisted in the Army (10:55) Back to NYU after the Army(12:00) How he got interested in working for a talent agency(14:20) From summer mailroom gig at William Morris to full-time job (18:45) Climbing the ranks at William Morris(23:18) Leaving William Morris to work with Bob Chartoff (29:14) How Julie Christie helped launch his producing career(39:47) Meeting Sylvester Stallone and hearing the Rocky pitch(48:53) Rocky's reception and the reshoot that saved the film(51:48) How he started working with Martin Scorsese(53:54) Managing productions and safeguarding creatives(57:01) How Rocky II helped get Raging Bull made(59:45) Funding movies then vs. now (1:01:47) Irwin’s thoughts on AI and CGI (1:03:14) The role of luck, hard work, and partnerships in his success(1:07:12) The story of meeting Jack Warner and the Six-Day War(1:10:21) Irwin's perspective on Jewish success in business and entertainment—Where To Find Irwin Winkler:• Website: https://winklerfilms.comWhere To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
From Paramount to Fox to Expedia: How Barry Diller Built One Massive Business After Another 21.05.2026 49minBarry Diller started in the mailroom at the William Morris Agency, but he had no interest in becoming an agent. He didn’t hustle the way others did. Instead, he spent his time in the file room, reading everything he could and learning how the business actually worked. By his own account, he likely would have been fired if not for one thing: his connection to Danny Thomas.In this episode of Big Shot, Barry sits down with Harley and David to reflect on the path that took him from that mailroom to running studios, building networks, and shaping modern media. He shares how his ambition came later, not as something he chased but something he discovered, and how his career was shaped as much by timing and luck as by intention.Along the way, Barry walks through the decisions that defined his career, from rising quickly through ABC and becoming chairman of Paramount at 32, to building the Fox network alongside Rupert Murdoch, and later taking control of IAC and acquiring companies like Expedia.This is a conversation about instinct, timing, and the willingness to walk through the door when it opens.—In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(03:32) Barry’s early heroes and influences(05:16) Where his ambition came from(06:50) Getting his start in the mailroom at the William Morris Agency(08:53) What he learned from reading client files at William Morris(12:10) Working as an assistant at William Morris(14:00) How he got a job at ABC(16:32) Barry’s thoughts on serendipity(19:20) Developing The Movie of the Week and miniseries at ABC(22:32) Becoming chairman of Paramount at 32(26:44) Working with Charles Bluhdorn(28:20) Why he still feels like he hasn’t made it(30:00) Building the Fox network and bringing Rupert Murdoch on board(34:06) How he took control of IAC(38:07) The story behind buying Expedia(40:47) Barry’s leadership philosophy(41:37) M&A strategy at IAC(44:43) How Eastern European Jews built Hollywood(47:36) Barry’s relationship to Jewish culture —Where To Find Barry Diller:• Website: https://www.iac.com/leadership/barry-dillerWhere To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
The Quiet Dealmaker Who Bought the Warriors and A’s | Lew Wolff 30.04.2026 1h 21minLew Wolff didn’t set out to become a successful developer or a professional sports team owner. He didn’t grow up around business, and by his own account, he stumbled into real estate almost by accident. But over the course of a decades-long career, he would go on to reshape downtown San Jose, partner with 20th Century Fox, and take ownership stakes in teams like the Oakland Athletics and Golden State Warriors.In this episode of Big Shot, Lew sits down with Harley and David to reflect on the unconventional path that led him there. He shares how the sudden death of his father forced him to grow up quickly, how a chance decision in college set him on a career in real estate, and how one unexpected opportunity led to a role at Fox and a headline that would change everything overnight.Along the way, Lew explains why he built his career around partnerships, how he thinks about choosing the right people to work with, and why he has always prioritized relationships over short-term profit. He also reflects on his time in professional sports, including the story behind Moneyball, the challenges of public scrutiny, and the behind-the-scenes dynamics that shaped the future of the A’s.—In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(02:25) Lew’s early years growing up in the Midwest(05:54) How his father’s death changed his path(10:28) Growing up Jewish in St. Louis(11:43) His first job and move to Los Angeles(14:34) Starting his own firm and selling to Booz Allen(17:18) His work with 20th Century Fox(24:39) Balancing the San Jose development with his work at Fox(27:20) How his studio office helped attract clients(29:21) How Bud Selig led him to buy a stake in the Oakland A’s(38:18) Lew’s philosophy on partnerships and how to choose them (42:54) Buying and selling his stake in the Golden State Warriors(45:46) The kind of work he enjoys and what he credits for his success(50:42) The story behind Moneyball(54:19) Why he stays focused on the future(55:20) Why he prioritizes relationships over profit(58:57) How he handled negative press as owner of the A’s(1:03:48) How the Giants blocked the A’s from building a new stadium(1:08:59) How he learned to let things go(1:12:51) Lew and Bud’s attempt to integrate their fraternity(1:15:07) His thoughts on Jewish entrepreneurship(1:18:38) What he’s most proud of—Where To Find Lew Wolff:• Website: https://www.wolffurban.com/ Where To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
The 104-Year-Old Godfather of the Shmatta Industry Who Turned $1,800 Into Billions | Joseph Schaffer 09.04.2026 37minJoseph Schaefer arrived in Canada from Poland in the 1930s and built his career in Montreal’s garment district at a time when the industry ran on instinct, relationships, and trust. He had an eye for fashion, a gift for reading people, and a way of doing business that set him apart early.In this episode of Big Shot, Joseph joins hosts Harley and David to reflect on how he found his way into the garment trade and helped shape what Chabanel would become. He shares how he built partnerships that lasted decades, why he never lost a partner, and how he gave others ownership long before equity was common practice.This is a story about a different era of entrepreneurship—one where deals were built on reputation, capital came through relationships, and success depended on understanding both the product and the people behind it. Joseph also reflects on what’s changed, why that kind of success is harder to replicate today, and the role his values and faith played in how he built his life and business.—In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(01:06) Early days after immigrating to Canada(03:10) How Joseph got his start in entrepreneurship(07:38) Learning the craft with help from his sister(09:55) When he brought on salespeople(11:27) How he built Chabanel(14:20) Joseph’s approach to capital and equity(18:16) How Joseph won over banks(22:24) Why Joseph’s success wouldn’t be repeatable in today’s market(25:45) How Joseph managed partnerships(29:00) Joseph’s legacy(31:52) Joseph’s advice for young entrepreneurs(32:50) His relationship with the Bronfmans(35:20) The role of faith in his life—Where To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
Disney Fired Him. He Built DreamWorks, Shrek, and a $3.8B Empire | Jeffrey Katzenberg 19.03.2026 1h 14minJeffrey Katzenberg was one of the youngest studio heads in Hollywood when he was named president of Paramount Pictures at just 31. Over the decades that followed, he would help shape modern animation and co-found DreamWorks alongside Steven Spielberg and David Geffen.In this episode of Big Shot, Harley and David sit down with Jeffrey to explore the experiences that shaped his career and leadership approach. He reflects on lessons from his father, whose generosity left a lasting impression, and on a moment with Kirk Douglas that reinforced the idea that you have not truly learned how to live until you have learned how to give.Jeffrey traces his path through Hollywood, from working with Barry Diller to helping lead Disney during a pivotal era for animation, and how being fired from Disney led him to build DreamWorks. Along the way, Jeffrey reflects on failure, success, and the mindset that has guided him through decades in Hollywood, and shares why he never rests on past success, keeping his eyes on what’s next.—In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(02:40) Lessons from his father and Kirk Douglas(12:01) Volunteering for NYC mayor John Lindsay(12:40) Growing up with dyslexia(16:44) The philosophy of exceeding expectations(25:24) Jeffrey’s role in revitalizing Disney animation(33:32) Storytelling lessons from Walt Disney(37:16) Building DreamWorks as its own brand(43:29) Getting fired from Disney and forming the Dreamworks team(57:04) Movie studio economics (59:32) Venture capital vs. filmmaking (1:05:26) A story about Jeffrey’s father and the drive of Jewish parents(1:09:29) Dealing with failure —Where To Find Jeffrey Katzenberg:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-katzenberg-4b3b47123• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeffrey.katzenberg• Website: https://www.wndrco.com Where To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
Goldman Sachs Rejected Him. Years Later, He Ran the Place | Lloyd Blankfein 25.12.2025 1h 48minLloyd Blankfein never chased a master plan. He focused on whatever was right in front of him, and those small decisions carried him from a Brooklyn housing project to leading Goldman Sachs through the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression.In this episode of Big Shot, Harley and David sit down with Lloyd to explore how that path unfolded. He talks about growing up in public housing and sharing a room with his grandmother, then suddenly finding himself at Harvard at 16, arriving in a suit because he had no idea what college culture looked like. He reflects on the dislocation of moving between the projects and the Ivy League and how he learned to navigate both worlds without ever feeling fully at home in either.Lloyd traces his shift from law to commodities, what he absorbed inside J. Aron, and how a crisis inside Goldman in the 1980s reshaped the firm and opened unexpected doors. He also shares what it was like to lead Goldman Sachs through 2008, why Warren Buffett’s support mattered at a defining moment, and what it took to keep the firm intact while the global financial system was breaking apart.It is a conversation about chance, focus, resilience, and the surprising places a life can go when you simply take the next step.—In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(05:15) Lloyd’s early days(07:05) How Lloyd graduated early (08:53) How Lloyd ended up at Harvard at 16 (10:56) A glimpse at just how humble his beginnings truly were(13:42) What it was like arriving at Harvard with no roadmap(19:37) Why top public-university talent can match (and sometimes surpass) the Ivies(20:27) What it was like moving between worlds (25:05) Why it took a long time to adjust to the burden of great wealth (27:11) What led Lloyd to law school(28:48) Lloyd’s approach of thinking one step ahead(30:35) Why Lloyd quit practicing law (35:16) Lloyd’s pivot to finance and initial rejection from Goldman Sachs(41:00) The J. Aron role that pulled Lloyd into Goldman (49:30) Inside the meritocracy of Goldman Sachs (53:08) How Lloyd ended up making partner at Goldman Sachs unexpectedly(1:02:30) Building trust across cultures (1:06:52) What changed after making partner (1:10:10) What sparked Lloyd’s retirement and renewed focus on learning(1:14:42) How the 1994 crisis set the stage for Lloyd to become CEO(1:22:00) Steering the firm through the 2008 financial crisis(1:28:22) The deal with Warren Buffett (1:37:58) Risk-taking vs. risk management (1:39:04) How anxiety fuels Lloyd’s risk management style (1:42:00) Lloyd’s biggest accomplishment at Goldman Sachs (1:46:21) A case for self-acceptance —Where To Find Lloyd Blankfein: • X: https://x.com/lloydblankfeinWhere To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
She Escaped Communism, Reinvented Nail Polish, and Sold for a Billion Dollars 11.12.2025 1h 22minBefore OPI, nail color was just another product on the shelf. Suzi Weiss-Fischmann gave it personality and built a global brand in the process.Suzi believed nail color could be personal, playful, and expressive. She pushed the entire industry forward with smarter formulas, bold branding, and shade names that became pop culture, from “I’m Not Really a Waitress” to “Lincoln Park After Dark.” In just six years after its founding, OPI became the number one professional nail brand in America.In this episode of Big Shot, Harley and David sit down with Suzi to explore the instincts that fueled that rise. She talks about welcoming competition, using storytelling to make an emotional connection with customers, and expanding from salons into Walmart without losing trust or quality. Suzi also shares how her Jewish upbringing influenced her approach to business, from the drive that comes from starting with very little to the values of community and responsibility that guided every big decision.—In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(03:23) Growing up in communist Hungary with two Holocaust-survivor parents(05:54) How honoring faith brought Suzi’s mom back to Auschwitz(07:32) Why Suzi’s family fled Hungary (12:40) Suzi’s family’s transitional time in Israel (15:50) Where Suzi’s work ethic came from (18:53) Suzi’s adolescence in New York(23:27) Suzi’s move to Los Angeles (24:52) How a dental-supply store ended up experimenting with acrylic nails(29:37) OPI’s first trade show (32:36) Why competition is good(33:58) How Starbucks inspired Suzi to personalize nail polish (36:44) Why OPI named polishes after food and places and how the naming process worked(42:46) The time Suzi presented to Barbara Broccoli (45:27) The perks and bonuses OPI gave to their employees(48:19) How OPI fixed its lipstick mistake(52:43) How success affected Suzi(55:04) Entering Walmart and growing beyond the professional market(58:15) How Suzi’s divorce impacted the family business (1:01:33) The emotional impact of selling OPI(1:10:47) The Jewish work ethic(1:14:25) How to raise resilient, hardworking children—Where to find Suzi Weiss-Fischmann: • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stladyofcolors• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stladyofcolors• Website: https://1stladyofcolors.comWhere To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
How a Blue-Collar Kid Built the Most Powerful Agency in Hollywood | Michael Ovitz 11.11.2025 1h 22minEvery dealmaker in Hollywood has a story. Michael Ovitz has all of them.From Ghostbusters to Goodfellas, he packaged the films, brokered the talent, and rewrote the rules of power. What started as a rebellion inside William Morris became a $2 billion empire called CAA, and a playbook Silicon Valley still follows.In this episode of Big Shot, Harley and David sit down with Michael Ovitz, the legendary founder of Creative Artists Agency and the man who redefined power in Hollywood.From a working-class childhood to representing the world's biggest stars, Michael’s story is one of obsession, reinvention, and relentless ambition. He helped shape more than 300 films, including Jurassic Park, Ghostbusters, Tootsie, Stand by Me, and Goodfellas, while transforming how deals, talent, and ideas move through the entertainment industry.This episode is brought to you by Firebelly Tea. Use code bigshot15 for 15% off your order https://www.firebellytea.com/—In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(01:39) Michael’s early years (02:53) How Jewish mothers blend boundless belief with practical ambition(06:15) Michael’s advice to a failed businessman(15:44) How Marc Andreessen pulled Michael into Silicon Valley(21:00) How early anti-semitism made Eisner’s betrayal cut deeper(25:37) The Yahoo deal Eisner blocked (30:25) The story behind the Jurassic Park pitch and Spielberg’s involvement(34:11) The hit-to-miss ratio in Hollywood, and how Michael’s movies were almost always hits(36:15) How stagnation at William Morris drove Michael to build something new(43:58) Lessons from William Morris’s shortcomings that shaped CAA’s DNA(48:25) How Michael signed every member of Saturday Night Live (50:45) The story of Michael’s first client and first big stars(59:55) The story behind Janklow and Nesbit and what Michael likes about Silicon Valley(1:02:28) Michael’s true talent (1:06:40) How Michael and Andy Grove envisioned streaming before Hollywood was ready(1:10:20) The ripple effects of streaming across entertainment(1:17:02) Michael’s thesis about the success of Jews and Catholics—Where To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
Borrowed Ten Grand, Turned Down Ten Billion | Stephen Ross 17.07.2025 1h 42minIn this episode of Big Shot, Harley and David sit down with Stephen Ross—real estate titan, Miami Dolphins owner, and the visionary behind Hudson Yards, CityPlace, and more—for a rare look inside his extraordinary life.From growing up in a two-family house in Detroit to transforming New York’s Hudson Yards and Miami’s CityPlace, Stephen’s story is deeply shaped by the Jewish entrepreneurial legacy. Inspired by his grandfather, a Russian immigrant who built the largest independent oil refinery in the Midwest, and his uncle Max Fisher, a renowned businessman and philanthropist, Stephen saw early what was possible through grit, vision, and belief.He shares how getting fired set him on the path to starting his own business, why he’s now building infrastructure in Palm Beach County to create South Florida’s next “Silicon Valley,” and the stories behind owning the Miami Dolphins and bringing Formula 1 racing to Miami.We discuss the following: • How his grandfather built the largest independent oil refinery in the Midwest• Why getting fired was the best thing that ever happened to him• Why he believes New York is still the best place to start anything• Why he held onto CityPlace through years of losses—and how it finally paid off• His $1.5B asset sale before the 2008 crash• The infrastructure he’s bringing to Palm Beach County to build a new “Silicon Valley”• Why he sold 1.5 billion worth of assets before the financial crisis of 2008• The story behind purchasing the Miami Dolphins• Why he turned down a $10B offer for the Dolphins, Hard Rock Stadium, and F1• How daily school drop-offs helped Stephen build a lasting bond with his daughters• His perspective on Jewish excellence in entrepreneurship and philanthropy• His advice for young entrepreneurs • And much more!—In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(02:47) Stephen’s childhood in Detroit (05:15) Lessons and inspiration from his grandfather and uncle (17:00) Stephen’s rocky start in Florida and struggles in school(22:35) How Stephen got into the University of Michigan and became a good student (27:13) How getting fired sparked his first business(34:40) Early business goals and the fundraising hurdles that led to bootstrapping(41:10) Stephen’s diversification strategy (44:01) How Stephen found great people to work with (47:30) What Stephen loves about the real estate business (49:12) Why the 90s market wasn’t ready for CityPlace (54:12) The story behind Hudson Yards and the Olympic stadium that fell through (57:50) Why Stephen says his latest project will be the most impactful (1:04:15) How to maintain momentum while building large projects (1:08:32) What it was like buying the Miami Dolphins (1:17:05) Why he brought F1 to Miami (1:19:25) Stephen’s philanthropy and why giving back is important(1:23:40) What drives Jewish excellence in business and giving(1:26:00) How he built and maintained a relationship with his daughters(1:34:00) How he survived a tough time in the 90s (1:35:37) AI's impact on the future(1:37:10) Advice for young entrepreneurs and how he values relationships—Where To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
He turned a Florida swamp into one of America’s richest cities | Don Soffer 12.06.2025 49minWhat kind of man looks at 800 acres of mosquito-infested swampland and sees high-end apartments, a golf course, and a luxury shopping mall? In 1967, Don Soffer made the biggest bet of his life: transforming undeveloped wetlands into what would become Aventura, one of Florida’s most iconic and extravagant communities. In this episode of Big Shot, Harley and David sit down with the 92-year-old visionary to hear how it all happened—straight from the source.From convincing the Florida governor to back his development plan (after a well-timed flight to Tallahassee) to bringing in golf legend Robert Trent Jones to design a course, Don sold a dream that turned into a $4 billion reality. He built Turnberry resort, launched Aventura Mall, and packed them with celebrities—from Elton John to Madonna and John McEnroe.Decades before “influencer marketing” was a thing, Don was using star power to shape a city.In this episode, you’ll hear about:• The environmental pushback Don faced after buying swampland—and how he got the green light from the governor of Florida after chartering a jet and flying to Tallahassee• Don’s celebrity-packed playbook: how he used influencers before we even had a word for it• Don’s take on why Jewish people have become such successful entrepreneurs• Don’s definition of common sense—and approach to solving complex problems with simplicity• Why he says it’s a privilege to have a hard problem to solve• His advice for the next generation of Jewish entrepreneurs• And much more! —In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(02:07) How Don accidentally swallowed his dad’s glass eye(03:03) Don’s early work building shopping malls with his father(05:01) Why Don trusted his intuition and took a chance on developing swampland in Florida(09:04) How Don got the governor of Florida on board to green light his project(11:00) Early influencers: How Don leveraged the power of celebrities (14:25) Building Aventura Mall(19:27) Don’s common-sense approach (21:52) Don’s relationship with his father (24:00) Why Don says it’s terrible to run a family business(25:11) Don’s current roles and how he set his kids up (27:01) Don’s explanation for the success of the Jewish people (29:37) A dinner with Frank Sinatra (31:44) Advice for young Jewish entrepreneurs (33:37) Where Don got his confidence and conviction (35:06) How Don saved the Pittsburgh Mall after the excavator destroyed private property (37:50) Don’s thoughts on when to sell and when not to(40:05) Don’s friendship with Tony Bennett (41:21) How to cultivate strong business relationships(43:49) Don’s advice to future generations of Soffers (45:52) Why Don still thinks Florida is a good place to develop (46:42) Closing —Where To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
The King of Gaming: How Bobby Kotick Built and Sold Activision Blizzard for $69B 10.04.2025 1h 23minBobby Kotick built a $69 billion empire from scratch—and the story is even crazier than it sounds.In this episode of The Big Shot, we sit down with gaming’s ultimate entrepreneur. Bobby takes us from hustling snacks at baseball games to building one of the most iconic tech companies in the world: Activision Blizzard. Hear how he cold-called Nintendo, got investment from Steve Wynn on a private jet, took over a bankrupt video game company, and turned it into an empire that Microsoft bought for $69 billion.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Bobby’s early hustles: selling ashtrays, snacks, and party access in NYCDropping out of college after Steve Jobs told him toStarting a dorm room company with Howard MarksConvincing Steve Wynn to invest $300K after a chance meetingReviving Activision from bankruptcy using old IP and gritWhy Pitfall and River Raid were billion-dollar blueprintsHow Activision became the first American Nintendo licenseeThe Apple boardroom showdown with John SculleyTurning Activision into a media empire: Call of Duty, Candy Crush, and Guitar HeroWhat it felt like selling the company to Microsoft for $69 billionHis philosophy on leadership, loyalty, and building an enduring business—In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(03:19) Selling ashtrays at playdates: Bobby’s first hustles(06:39) Shadowing NYC real estate legends like Larry Silverstein(09:59) Dorm room hardware startup with Howard Marks(13:18) Inventing a typewriter-printer hack and launching via Byte magazine(16:38) Meeting Steve Jobs(19:58) Why Steve Jobs tells Bobby to drop out of school(23:17) Getting featured in Forbes and making his parents panic(26:37) The wild story of meeting Steve Wynn at a Texas cowboy gala(29:57) The legendary $300K check in the basement of a casino(33:16) Trying to sell to Apple (and the cigar moment with Sculley)(36:36) Licensing games for EA and learning to be scrappy(39:56) Black Monday, the Amiga, and a failed bid for Commodore(43:15) Buying 20% of Nintendo’s U.S. licensing agent(46:35) Discovering Activision buried inside a bankrupt company(49:55) Why Bobby wanted to bring Pitfall and River Raid back to life(53:14) The $400K move that changed gaming history(56:34) A childhood connection saves the Activision bankruptcy deal(59:54) Turning a bankrupt company into a profitable one in months(01:03:13) Raising $40M and going on an acquisition spree(01:06:33) How Bobby became the longest-serving tech CEO(01:09:53) The Toy Story game meeting that cemented Bobby’s role(01:13:12) Why Bobby never wanted to run a business that lost money(01:15:32) Reflecting on the Microsoft acquisition and legacy—Where To Find Bobby Kotick:• X: https://x.com/bobbykotick • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbykotick/ —Where To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
The Prosperity Formula: The Man Who Predicted—and Changed—the Future of Finance, Medicine, Education and Philanthropy | Mike Milken 06.03.2025 1h 31minIn today’s episode of Big Shot, we sit down with Mike Milken—legendary financier, philanthropist, and chairman of the Milken Institute. Mike has been a driving force in medical research, public health, and education for over five decades. Fortune called him “The Man Who Changed Medicine,” and Forbes listed him among “Visionaries Reimagining Our Children’s Future.” Mike’s financial innovations helped launch industries like cable TV, homebuilding, and cellular technology. Beyond finance, he has led major philanthropic efforts, including the Prostate Cancer Foundation, FasterCures, and the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream, set to open this year. A signatory of the Giving Pledge, he has committed much of his wealth to driving global impact.In our conversation today, we talk about: • The childhood moments that shaped Mike’s curiosity and deep empathy• How Mike mastered mental math through Holocaust survivor, Jakow Trachtenberg's technique• How speech and debate sharpened Mike’s ability to communicate big ideas• The impact of the Watts riots on Mike’s career path • How market crashes in 1974 and 1987 provided opportunities for significant gains• Mike’s take on regulations and why he remains relentlessly optimistic about the free market• A glimpse into Mike’s philanthropic work in medicine and education• And much more! If you'd like to apply to be an executive producer, please complete the form here https://shorturl.at/xLQUW—In This Episode We Cover:(00:00) Intro(02:25) Why Mike has been involved in philanthropy from such a young age(09:57) Early experiences that shaped Mike’s radical empathy (19:03) How Mike learned mental math by using the Trachtenberg system (20:25) Mike’s journey to Berkeley and interest in the space program(28:40) How the Watts riots impacted Mike(33:40) The value of doing research, and what Mike learned about credit(38:10) Mike’s first investment bank job (44:50) How Mike was able to fund MCI at a time when AT&T had a monopoly (50:22) How the 1974 stock market crash impacted investment banking (57:50) The culture of outsiders dominating Hollywood—many of them Jewish(1:00:59) The stock market crash of 1987(1:03:58) Why the best investors are social scientists(1:06:15) The cultural shift that brought down big tobacco (1:09:20) Takeaways from Mike’s interview with Elon Musk(1:11:00) The JPL Mars Rover landing simulation and how free enterprise drives innovation(1:14:09) Milken Community School, and Mike’s emphasis on health and medical research(1:16:22) How views on nutrition and the microbiome have evolved(1:19:48) Mike’s advice: prioritize great people and be flexible (1:24:30) Private equity’s impact on business and the downside of family businesses(1:28:40) The Miken Center for Advancing the American Dream—Where To Find Mike Milken:• X: https://x.com/MilkenInstitute• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milkeninstitute/• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/milkeninstitute/• Website: https://www.mikemilken.com/—Where To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick• Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
The Queen of Branding: Lynda Resnick’s $6 Billion Empire of FIJI Water, POM, & Wonderful Pistachios 30.01.2025 1h 11minIn this episode of Big Shot, we’re thrilled to welcome the legendary marketing visionary Lynda Resnick. As the co-owner of The Wonderful Company, Lynda has shaped iconic brands like POM Wonderful, Wonderful Pistachios, and FIJI Water into household names. With her husband, Stewart, Lynda also turned The Franklin Mint into a cultural sensation and brought fresh ideas to the floral industry with Teleflora’s innovative, long-lasting gifts. Join us as Lynda takes us on a journey through her extraordinary life—from her early days as a child actor to her recent retirement and her hands-on efforts to make communities healthier and stronger through impactful philanthropic initiatives. • How Lynda built a successful business at the age of 19 • Turning The Franklin Mint into a cultural icon and making millions with a deluxe Monopoly game • The incredible story of branding POM Wonderful and FIJI Water • How she sold $150 million worth of Monopoly • Lynda’s commitment to quality • Why she’s never raised any outside capital • The childhood experience that shaped Lynda’s decision to always self-fund her philanthropy • A life-changing epiphany inspired by philosopher Michael Sandel • Lynda’s philanthropic work building healthier, safer communities for her workers • The role Judaism plays in her life, her marriage, and advice for young people • And more! — In This Episode We Cover: (00:00) Intro (02:35) Lynda’s early years in Pennsylvania (05:14) Lynda Limited, the company Lynda founded at the age of 19 (08:37) Lynda’s activism and her involvement with the Pentagon Papers (13:06) Thinking inside the box (15:35) How Lynda reinvented the floral business with Teleflora (19:00) Taking The Franklin Mint beyond coins (24:00) The story of buying Jackie O’s pearls and making reproductions (25:30) Why Lynda and her husband Stewart bought land in the Joaquin Valley (28:58) How Lynda discovered the benefits of pomegranate (30:20) Building the Pom Wonderful brand, including the packaging (32:18) Early obstacles Pom Wonderful faced, including the court battle (34:00) Why Lynda insisted on 100% pure pomegranate juice (35:25) How Lynda was able to build brands around commodities (39:11) The story about acquiring Fiji (43:27) Lynda’s philanthropic philosophy (45:10) Lynda’s epiphany inspired by Michael Sandel (49:10) Lynda’s philanthropic work building better communities for her workers (52:50) Lynda’s experiences with antisemitism, including rejection from The Campfire Girls (54:43) The role Jewish culture plays in Lynda’s life (56:07) Lynda’s time as a child actor—and an early lesson on always being prepared (58:23) Lynda’s advice on staying true to your values (59:10) How Lynda and Stewart have maintained their strong marriage and partnership (1:02:40) Lynda’s thoughts on building lasting brands (1:03:55) AI’s answer to what Lynda’s superpower is (1:06:00) How “America’s Favorite Mom” got overshadowed by a golf game (1:09:04) Why Lynda doesn’t have regrets — Where To Find Lynda Resnick: • Website: https://www.wonderful.com/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynda-resnick-04103a101/ — Where To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/ • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick • Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
How The Founder of Waze Went From Getting Fired To Building a Billion-Dollar Business | Uri Levine 12.12.2024 19minIn this special episode of Big Shot, recorded live at the iconic Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., we’re joined by Uri Levine, the co-founder of Waze. Uri is a visionary entrepreneur whose journey includes building Waze, the world’s largest community-based traffic and navigation app, which Google acquired for over $1 billion. Beyond Waze, Uri has co-founded several impactful startups like Moovit (acquired by Intel), FeeX, and Engie. He’s also the author of Fall in Love with the Problem, Not the Solution, a must-read guide for entrepreneurs. In our conversation today, we cover: • Lessons on failure and prioritization from Uri’s father • A clever hack he used to pitch Waze with an incomplete product • The cultural drive behind the Jewish ambition to create positive change • The story of the many millionaires created by Waze’s acquisition • And so much more! A special thank you to ADL In Concert Against Hate. You can learn more here https://www.adl.org/adl-concert-against-hate-shines-light-heroes — In This Episode We Cover: (00:00) Intro (01:40) How Uri’s father taught him the importance of failure (04:55) A story about prioritization (06:59) Uri’s solution for fundraising with an incomplete product (09:00) The ups and downs of the start-up journey (11:04) Why Jewish people are drawn to entrepreneurship and making a positive impact (12:58) The connection between the kibbutz community and entrepreneurship (13:25) The Google acquisition of Waze (13:58) The importance of keeping the main thing the main thing (15:11) How tikkun olam inspires Uri’s entrepreneurial ventures (16:48) Chutzpah and the Israeli experience (17:40) How Uri continues to be inspired by his father — Where To Find Uri Levine: • Website: https://urilevine.com/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/uri-levine/ • X: https://x.com/urilevine1 — Where to Find ADL: • Website: https://www.adl.org/ — Where To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/ • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick • Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
From College Dropout to Running Polo, Nike, Weight Watchers, and HSN | Mindy Grossman 21.11.2024 1h 23minIn today’s episode of Big Shot, we’re joined by Mindy Grossman, former CEO of Weight Watchers, who led the company’s transformation into a global wellness brand. Like many of our past guests, Mindy’s journey involves perseverance, bold decisions, and calculated risk-taking. Mindy’s remarkable career began with a surprising choice—dropping out of college. She then worked up to executive roles at Polo Ralph Lauren, Nike, the Home Shopping Network, and Weight Watchers. In our conversation today, we cover: Why Mindy dropped out of college and the value of risk-taking Mindy’s impact on Nike as the most senior woman executive The importance of rooting out toxic employees in your organization How Mindy revived the culture and inspired employees at HSN Taking Home Shopping Network public Meeting Oprah, their arena tour, and keeping Weight Watchers alive during the pandemic Mindy’s sales philosophy, move to private equity, thoughts on family and the Jewish success story, and much more! — In This Episode We Cover: (00:00) Intro (02:33) Mindy’s early years as an adopted child of working-class Jewish parents (06:00) Why Mindy quit school and moved to New York (09:00) Mindy’s first job as an Executive Assistant (11:40) Mindy’s mantra, “passion, purpose, and impact” (12:42) How Mindy landed her first sales role (15:06) Bashert vs. self-determination (15:44) The importance of calculated risk-taking (17:26) Why Mindy left Tommy Hilfiger for Ralph Lauren (20:40) The success of Mindy’s new category, main floor (24:00) Why Mindy resigned from Ralph Lauren (25:10) How Ralph Lauren retained Mindy by creating a new role for her (26:50) Mindy’s time as CEO of Polo Jeans (28:44) “Intrapreneurship” and the excitement of working with visionaries (31:30) Founders and boards Mindy works with (32:40) Mindy’s time at Nike and why she left Polo Jeans (37:05) Mindy’s pitch to Barry Diller and her position at Home Shopping Network (45:31) Reviving the culture at HSN (50:10) The huge impact Mindy made on employee morale by buying new chairs (52:18) The “There’s no place like HSN” campaign (54:40) The magic moment that affects human behavior to get a sale (57:11) Taking HSN public (1:04:39) Meeting Oprah and joining Weight Watchers (1:08:19) Mindy and Oprah’s arena tour (1:09:10) How Mindy kept Weight Watchers customers connected during the pandemic (1:12:25) Mindy’s shift to private equity and advising (1:18:30) Mindy’s thoughts on Jewish success (1:21:00) The death of her parents and the legacy of belief Mindy passes down — Where To Find Mindy Grossman: • X: https://x.com/mindygrossman • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindygrossman • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-grossman — Where To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/ • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick • Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
The Merchant Prince: The Man Behind The Gap, Old Navy, and J. Crew | Mickey Drexler 24.10.2024 1h 25minIn today’s episode of Big Shot, we’re joined by retail legend Mickey Drexler, whose transformative leadership reshaped some of the biggest names in fashion. Over his 18-year tenure at The Gap, Mickey took the company from $400 million to $14 billion in revenue, revolutionizing casual wear and spotting a new retail opportunity that led to the creation of Old Navy. His influence extends far beyond The Gap—he also founded Madewell, served on Apple’s board for over a decade, and now works alongside his son Alex on the growing success of Alex Mill. In our conversation today, we cover: Mickey’s humble beginnings in a one-bedroom apartment in The Bronx Mickey’s heuristic for hiring and what draws him to people Mickey’s friendship with Steve Jobs and what it was like serving on each other’s boards The importance of urgency and why a bad decision is better than indecision How Mickey does market research, and his process behind both The Gap and Old Navy Mickey’s thoughts on entrepreneurship, his family, and much more! — In This Episode We Cover: (02:53) Welcome Mickey Drexler (03:29) Mickey’s childhood in the Bronx (12:40) The traits Mickey looks for in people he’s hiring (14:56) Why Mickey values kindness and treating others fairly, regardless of their status (16:40) Why the best training is doing the job (18:40) Mickey’s high standards, obsession with data, and the importance of instinct (28:39) How Steve Jobs persuaded Mickey to join Apple’s board (32:33) What Mickey admired about Steve Jobs (34:20) Why a bad decision is better than indecision (36:34) What makes a great website (39:43) Mickey’s process for helping The Gap standout (46:32) Why Mickey calls the fashion business a commodity business (47:20) How Dayton Hudson’s Target stores inspired Mickey to build Old Navy (54:15) How Mickey got the name for Old Navy (57:42) The challenges Mickey faced opening Old Navy (1:00:20) How the meaning of value depends on the individual customer (1:05:29) The call from Steve Jobs that marked an end to Mickey’s time at The Gap (1:11:20) Mickey’s wife, Peggy’s background (1:13:22) Mickey’s experience taking J. Crew private (1:18:17) How Mickey balances work and family (1:20:03) Mickey’s thoughts on Jewish entrepreneurship, especially in the fashion industry (1:21:52) Mickey’s parting advice on learning entrepreneurship thoughts on school (1:23:37) What David learned at school, and Harley’s learnings from Mickey Where To Find Mickey Drexler • X: https://twitter.com/millarddrexler • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickeydrexler • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/millard-mickey-drexler-1b00a9269/ Where To Find Big Shot: • Website: https://www.bigshot.show/ • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ • Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf • David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick • Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
From Single Mom to Billion Dollar Book Business | Heather Reisman (Founder & CEO, Indigo) 19.09.2024 59minIn this special live episode of Big Shot, recorded at StartupFest, we are excited to welcome Heather Reisman, the trailblazing entrepreneur behind Indigo Books & Music. Heather's remarkable journey began as a single mother learning to code to support her children. Fueled by grit, a bit of luck, and a talent for connecting with extraordinary people, Heather built Indigo into Canada’s largest bookseller. However, Heather's ambitions extend beyond her role as founder and CEO. She is also a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and philanthropist, having contributed $100 million to the University of Toronto and supported various causes through her foundation, HSEG, which aids the education of lone soldiers after their service in the IDF. In today’s conversation, we talk about: Heather’s childhood and how her working mother influenced her The importance of curiosity and how this value has served Heather in entrepreneurship Heather’s first startup, Paradigm Heather’s work at Cott and how she broke out of a mental funk after leaving Raising $25 million and founding Indigo Founding Kobo eReaders and selling to Rakuten for $315 million Heather’s life beyond work and plans for increasing Canada’s literacy — In This Episode We Cover: (05:08) Welcome Heather Reisman (05:35) What it was like growing up in the Reisman household (10:26) Heather’s experience working at her mother’s retail store (11:15) Heather’s early passion for books (12:44) Why Curiosity is the key to everything (14:00) Heather’s coding journey as a single mom (16:00) Why Heather quit her job after an undeserved demotion (17:00) Heather’s time working at a consulting firm (19:00) Co-founding Paradigm (19:56) Heather’s thoughts on change and why she left consulting (24:29) Why Heather left Cott (26:55) Heather’s depression and the book that kickstarted the next chapter of her life (20:24) The Borders deal that never worked out (33:00) Raising $25 million and founding Indigo (37:19) The story of acquiring Chapters (39:45) Integrating Chapters (42:13) How the ‘New Coke” failure inspired Heather to keep Chapters and Indigo separate (43:20) Why Heather founded an e-reader company called Kobo (48:47) Selling Kobo to Rakuten for $315 million (50:19) The power of Heather’s Picks (52:13) Taking Indigo private (53:00) Heather’s literacy goals and the importance of curation (57:00) How Heather balances work and family life Where To Find Heather Reisman: X: https://x.com/heatherreisman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherreisman Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hreisman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-reisman-3bab2319 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/discover/heather-reisman-indigo Where To Find Big Shot: Website: https://www.bigshot.show/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
Bobbi Brown's Billion Dollar Beauty Legacy 05.09.2024 1h 25minHarley Finkelstein and David Segal are back with Season 3 of Big Shot! Today, we chat with beauty industry icon Bobbi Brown. Known for her work as a makeup artist, Bobbi’s expertise has been showcased on the covers of leading magazines, including Cosmopolitan, Allure, Mademoiselle, and Teen. She’s the author of nine beauty books, with five achieving bestseller status. In 1991, Bobbi founded Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, which Estée Lauder acquired for $74.5 million four years later. Bobbi had a 25-year non-compete with Estée Lauder, and as soon as that expired, she launched her latest company, a clean beauty brand called Jones Road. In our conversation, we discuss the following: How chutzpah and optimism landed Bobbi her first Vogue cover How Bobbi developed her first lipstick and the original ten that became the brand’s foundation. How organic networking was a big part of Bobbi’s success The Estée Lauder acquisition of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and Bobbi’s friendship with Leonard Lauder How Bobbi prioritized motherhood over work Life after the non-compete: Her new partnerships and Jones Road And so much more — In This Episode We Cover: (04:28) How Bobbi got started by cold-calling models and agencies (10:30) How Bobbi learned entrepreneurship skills at Emerson (12:52) Bobbi’s first lipstick and the beginnings of her makeup empire (17:39) The Bergdorf Goodman deal that almost fell apart (21:30) A chance encounter in an elevator that led Bobbi to her second chemist (22:10) Meeting Jeff Zucker’s grandmother and landing a regular spot on The Today Show (26:15) Trailblazing the natural makeup movement (34:10) Bobbi’s meeting with Leonard Lauder of Estée Lauder (35:59) How Bobbi was able to prioritize her kids (39:20) The sale to Estée Lauder (42:54) How Bobbi celebrated and shared her wealth with her family (43:45) The first freestanding store, and how Leonard Lauder supported Bobbi (47:00) The decline of Bobbi’s relationship with Estée Lauder that led to her leaving (51:30) The Just Bobbi curated collection at Lord and Taylor (53:30) How Bobbi moved on from the drama at Estée Lauder (1:00:01) Launching Jones Road (1:08:55) Miracle Balm’s instant popularity (1:10:20) Bobbi’s response to a TikTok influencer trashing her foundation (1:13:43) Bobbi’s thoughts on selling her new company (1:14:45) Bobbi’s partnership with her son, Cody (1:17:03) New learnings at Jones Road (1:18:28) Bobbi’s thoughts on chutzpah (1:19:25) Bobbi’s perspective on health and longevity (1:20:36) What being Jewish means to Bobbi (1:23:15) The secret to Bobbi’s successful marriage and partnership — Where to find Bobbi Brown: X: https://x.com/justbobbibrown Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justbobbidotcom Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JustBobbiDotCom TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justbobbibrown Where To Find Big Shot: Website: https://www.bigshot.show/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick Production and Marketing: https://penname.co -
Billion-Dollar Threads: How Morris Goldfarb Stitched Together a Fashion Empire 01.08.2024 1h 1minIn this episode of Big Shot, we sit down with the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of G-III Apparel Group, Morris Goldfarb. Morris took over running his father’s company at the age of 24. His journey is deeply rooted in the inspiring legacy of his father, Aron Goldfarb, a Holocaust survivor who immigrated to the U.S. and founded G-III in 1956. Morris has transformed the company from a small women's leather outerwear business into a global fashion powerhouse, managing brands like DKNY, Calvin Klein, and Tommy Hilfiger. In our conversation today, talk about: The emotional impact of being the son of a Holocaust survivor Morris’s strategies for growing the family business and taking it public The setbacks G-III faced in 1995 and how Morris was able to successfully pivot the business Brand acquisitions and licensing that became the bread and butter of G-III Morris’s life outside work, including family and philanthropic accomplishments And much more! — In This Episode We Cover: (01:50) Morris’s childhood in Israel and New York (04:42) Morris’s dad, Aron Goldfarb’s memoir about the Holocaust, Maybe You Will Survive (08:54) How Morris was affected by the Holocaust survival stories of his family and friends (10:20) Aron Goldfarb’s clothing business and why he wanted Morris to get a city job (12:36) How Morris took over the family business at the age of 24 (14:30) Morris’s ambition and early years expanding G&N Sportswear (16:05) Morris’s consulting and building factories in South Korea (19:59) G-III’s journey to going public (22:40) Why Morris had to pivot the business in 1995 and move towards licensing (31:50) The current state of G-III (32:52) How Morris fought nepotism working at his father’s company (34:17) Acquisitions that grew G-III (38:18) An explanation of how licensing works at G-III (40:18) The pitfalls of direct to consumer businesses (42:26) Morris’s thoughts on licensing vs. owning brands (43:24) Morris’s partnership with Carl Banks (46:30) Morris’s family life and what it’s like working with his son (50:53) Why G-III is not a great fit for most emerging brands (52:50) What made Morris finally feel like he’d made it (54:29) What chutzpah means to Morris (54:55) Morris’s philosophy on giving back and why he built a Jewish cemetery in Poland (59:18) Why Jews have made so many contributions to business, science, and academia — Where to find Morris Goldfarb: Website: https://ir.giii.com/management/morris-goldfarb Where To Find Big Shot: Website: https://www.bigshot.show/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigshotpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigshotshow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigshotshow/ Harley Finkelstein: https://twitter.com/harleyf David Segal: https://twitter.com/tea_maverick Production and Marketing: https://penname.co
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