Big Shot (Big Shot)
Explorez tous les épisodes de Big Shot
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 Sep 2023 | How Business Legends Build The Best Teams | 00:21:45 | |
It's cliché to say that you can see further when standing on the shoulders of giants. But it's also a mentality that has served some of the most successful entrepreneurs. No matter how brilliant the individual, great leaders know that building a world-class team can take a company from being a good idea to becoming a household name. And wise employees know that if they can find a leader who understands the value of a team, then the opportunity and upside can be unlimited. In this episode, you'll learn how four different founders approach building teams, the value of good partners, and how the best founders are obsessed with helping their employees reach their full potential. — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:00) Intro (03:15) Charles Bronfman’s partner formula (04:40) The importance of chemistry (05:30) How Issy Sharp made his first hire at the Four Seasons (10:30) Building the cornerstone of the Four Seasons brand (12:55) Why Four Seasons employees can stay for free (13:35) Aldo Bensadoun’s day 1 message to employees (14:37) How Aldo built integrity into his hiring process (17:55) Jonathan Wener’s focus on making his employees wealthy (19:40) The difference between operating a company and building a culture — 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 | |||
| 01 Aug 2024 | Billion-Dollar Threads: How Morris Goldfarb Stitched Together a Fashion Empire | 01:01:39 | |
In 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:
— 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 | |||
| 08 Feb 2024 | From The Son Of A Postman To The $400 Billion Man: David Rubenstein | 00:58:11 | |
In this episode of Big Shot, we're thrilled to welcome the incredible David Rubenstein! As a co-founder of The Carlyle Group, one of the globe's top private equity firms, David's journey from a Baltimore kid with big dreams to a presidential advisor and business mogul is truly inspiring. Join us, as David reveals how he overcame rejection after President Carter lost his re-election and pivoted into private equity. Learn why he's dedicated to giving back through initiatives like the Giving Pledge, and get ready for some thought-provoking insights, including why hiring geniuses might not be the best idea and tips on avoiding spoiling your kids. In This Episode We Cover: (03:40) Welcome David Rubenstein (04:50) Why David and Harley both maintain their bar memberships (05:37) Why education is important to the Jewish people (07:30) David’s upbringing in Baltimore (10:00) The difficulties that come with raising children when you’re wealthy (11:30) David’s relatively laid-back parents (13:34) The Jewish youth group that fueled David’s drive for more (14:15) David’s first job out of law school (15:25) How David became an advisor to President Jimmy Carter (16:42) The years of struggle after Jimmy Carter failed to get re-elected (20:41) How the Carlyle Group got their start (24:36) Carlyle’s “bear hug” on Chichi’s (27:22) David’s growth strategy for Carlyle focusing on diversification and globalization (31:30) David’s mom’s philanthropy (34:14) What the Giving Pledge is (36:43) David’s philosophy on philanthropy (39:33) An explanation of the Magna Carta, its failure, and the anti-semitism of the day (42:22) David’s focus on patriotic philanthropy (46:47) How David became the fundraiser for Carlyle (47:56) How Carlyle was able to build a lasting company (49:27) Why reasonably intelligent people make better employees than geniuses (50:04) The cultural values that make Jewish people successful and want to give back (54:10) Antisemitism in the US and Europe (54:28) Why David still doesn’t think he’s made it (55:33) Tips on raising kids and the three ways to influence people as a leader — Referenced: David Rubenstein on Patriotic Philanthropy: https://www.whitehousehistory.org/the-white-house-1600-sessions/david-rubenstein-on-patriotic-philanthropy Shelley v. Kraemer: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shelley_v._Kraemer Virtual Jewish World: Baltimore, Maryland: https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/baltimore-jewish-history-tour#google_vignette Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP: https://www.paulweiss.com/ Ted Sorensen: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ted_Sorensen William Simon: https://www.philanthropyroundtable.org/hall-of-fame/william-simon/ G. William Miller: https://home.treasury.gov/about/history/prior-secretaries/g-william-miller-1979-1981 Edward J. Mathias: https://www.carlyle.com/corporate-overview/operating-executives-advisors/edward-j-mathias T. Rowe Price: https://www.troweprice.com/ The Mellon family: https://www.forbes.com/profile/mellon/?sh=21c04b3f6c8b Greenmailing: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/g/greenmail. Mike Milken: https://milkeninstitute.org/staff/mike-milken Frank Carlucci: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_Carlucci John Major: https://www.britannica.com/biography/John-Major Why are there so many Jewish Nobel winners?: https://www.thejc.com/lets-talk/why-are-there-so-many-jewish-nobel-winners-ctycke48# — Where to find David Rubenstein X: https://twitter.com/DM_Rubenstein Website: https://davidrubenstein.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 | |||
| 05 Sep 2024 | Bobbi Brown's Billion Dollar Beauty Legacy | 01:25:09 | |
Harley 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:
— 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 | |||
| 24 Oct 2024 | The Merchant Prince: The Man Behind The Gap, Old Navy, and J. Crew | Mickey Drexler | 01:25:14 | |
In 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:
— 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 | |||
| 29 Jun 2023 | An Unfiltered Conversation With The Founder of The Four Seasons: Issy Sharp (Part 2) | 01:00:36 | |
We’re back today for part two with The Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts founder, Issy Sharp. If you didn’t check out part 1, be sure to watch or listen. In this episode, we explore how Mcdonald's surprisingly had the biggest impact on the Four Seasons' approach to hospitality and led to Issy firing most of his executive team, why the Four Seasons changed their entire business model and don’t own any real estate, and how the death of his son helped inspire him to help the Terry Fox run to become the largest cancer charity event in Canada. Not to mention, he ends the episode by absolutely dropping a bomb that you just wouldn’t foresee coming. We can’t wait for you to watch today and let us know your comments by leaving a comment or a review. Big Shot Is Supported By Firebelly Tea Founded by David Segal and Harley Finkelstein, Firebelly Tea was created to bring the benefits of a modern tea ritual to your life. Premium teas made with real ingredients – never any added flavorings – and smart, stylish tea accessories you'll love to use combine to help you energize, focus, rest, and digest. Because when you can taste the difference and feel the difference, you're more likely to make a difference. Big Shot listeners get 15% off – visit firebellytea.com/bigshot in the US or firebellytea.ca/bigshot in Canada. — Where To Find Big Shot: Website: 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 — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:00) Welcome to Big Shot and part 2 with Issy Sharp (00:25) Meet Firebelly Tea (04:34) Issy Sharp Introduction (06:38) How Issy built the standard in hospitality (13:04) How Mcdonald's had a huge impact on the Four Seasons (15:48) When Issy fired his entire executive team (19:50) How the Golden Rule transcended time (22:58) Why the Four Seasons never own their real estate (33:28) How Issy balances family and a multi-billion dollar company (42:50) Issy helped raise $850 million for the Terry Fox Run (50:24) What chutzpah means (55:00) Why Big Shot exists (58:16) You’ll never believe Issy’s most important piece of advice — Referenced: Terry Fox Run: https://terryfox.org/ | |||
| 15 Jun 2023 | How Issy Sharp Built The Four Seasons and Transformed The Hospitality Industry Forever (Part 1) | 01:03:10 | |
Today we’re joined by none other than Isadore (Issy) Sharp, the founder of The Four Seasons. We’re talking about one, if not the most iconic luxury hotel brands in the world. His story is incredible. From growing up and working in construction. To how he met his wife that’s he’s still with over 70 years later. This episode was so damn good we had to split it into two parts. In part one, you’ll learn what Issy’s upbringing was like, why Issy has never felt fear, the most important concepts that made the Four Seasons successful, and arguably the best investment of all time. — Where To Find Big Shot: Website: 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 — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:00) Welcome to Big Shot and meet our guest Issy Sharp (05:45) Learn about Issy’s upbringing and the influence his parents had on him (12:40) Why every Four Seasons design still goes through Issy to this day (14:33) How Issy met his wife over 70 years ago and his ability to never have fear (22:50) How Issy had the chutzpah at even a young age (24:25) The story of Issy’s first hotel project and how he built the Four Seasons (30:00) Arguably the best investment of all time (33:15) Why it was named the Four Seasons (37:05) The key concepts that made the Four Seasons so successful (45:29) How the Inn on the Park was designed on the architect’s deathbed (51:59) How Issy got a $600k loan to take the Four Seasons to the next level (55:25) Why London became the prototype and catalyst for the Four Seasons — Referenced: ITT Corporation: https://www.britannica.com/topic/ITT-Corporation Ford Thunderbird: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Thunderbird_(second_generation) Tanenbaum Family: https://search.ontariojewisharchives.org/Permalink/accessions24895 Inn on the Park: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inn_on_the_Park Peter Dickinson: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Dickinson_(architect) WZMH Architects: https://www.wzmh.com/about/history/ Dorchester Hotel: https://www.dorchestercollection.com/en/london/the-dorchester/ | |||
| 19 Oct 2023 | Why Jews Are Entrepreneurs By Necessity | 00:20:33 | |
Did you know that less than .2 percent of the world is Jewish? And yet, more than 20 percent of all Noble Prize winners are Jewish. What explains the high likelihood of success? On this episode of Big Shot shorts, Harley Finkelstein and David Segal explore the history of Jewish entrepreneurship with legends Charles Bronfman, Aldo Bensadoun, and Ed Sonshine. Their competitive advantage? They had everything to lose, giving them no choice but to find a way to win. — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:25) The tidal wave analogy (03:30) Why are so many Jews successful? (05:15) Entrepreneurs by necessity (06:55) The curious relationship between anti-semitism and Jewish entrepreneurship (10:00) The surprisingly small number of Jews in the world (11:35) The Jewish career path (16:50) Why Ed Sonshine is worried for future entrepreneurs (18:40) It’s tough to make diamonds without pressure — 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 | |||
| 03 Aug 2023 | Winning Big with Chutzpah: Lessons from the Titans of Entrepreneurship | 00:26:25 | |
Looking for a masterclass on taking chances and winning big? This episode of Big Shot looks at the one trait shared by all the successful entrepreneurs and billionaires on the podcast -- chutzpah. It's one thing to say you can't fear failure. And it's something completely different to act in ways that seem crazy at the moment but turn out to be the perfect move. This episode shares the combined wisdom of Ed Sonshine, Charles Bronfman, Aldo Bensadoun, Jonathan Wener, Issy Sharp, and hosts Harley Finkelstein and David Segal. You'll learn how the best entrepreneurs approach risk differently than the rest, and that's a big reason why they succeed in ways others can't imagine. — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:00) Wow, what a first season of Big Shot (04:02) Pitching Season 2 (05:15) Ed Sonshine on what chutzpah means to him (06:19) Charles Bronfman on chutzpah (07:05) Aldo Bensadoun shares his take (12:02) Jonathan Wener on not taking no for an answer (17:33) Issy Sharp on giving your best (20:57) Harley and David on what chutzpah means to them — 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 | |||
| 22 Mar 2023 | Welcome to Big Shot | 00:01:57 | |
Many of the greatest stories of entrepreneurship have never been told. It’s time to change that. Big Shot is an archive and celebration of Jewish entrepreneurs who took risks, overcame the odds, and created legendary businesses that changed the game. Each episode documents the memories, culture, hardship, and chutzpah it takes to become a big shot. — Where To Find Big Shot Website: 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 by https://penname.co/ | |||
| 10 Apr 2025 | The King of Gaming: How Bobby Kotick Built and Sold Activision Blizzard for $69B | 01:23:15 | |
Bobby 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:
— 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 | |||
| 25 May 2023 | Ed Sonshine: From Displaced Persons Camp To a Multi-Billion Dollar Real Estate Empire | 01:06:39 | |
Ed Sonshine is one of those people you could speak with for hours and barely scratch the surface of his life. Born in Bergen-Belsen Displaced Persons Camp after World War II to two Holocaust survivors, he immigrated to Canada as a young child. After already becoming a very successful lawyer, he founded RioCan, which, at the time, was the first REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) in Canada. As of this recording, RioCan operates 193 properties, has over 33 million in leasable square feet, and an evaluation of $15 billion. In this episode of Big Shot, you’ll learn what it was like being born in Germany after the war, how Ed built a real estate empire while still being a family man, why he thinks the Jewish community is extremely self-reliant, and much more. — Where To Find Big Shot: Website: 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 — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:00) Welcome to Big Shot and meet our guest Ed Sunshine (05:40) The early days of Ed’s life and being born in a displaced person’s camp (10:18) Why Ed’s father was a smuggler after the war and never complained (14:55) What made Ed want to be successful and change career paths (19:12) When Ed got the idea to bring the first REIT to Canada (24:38) What he learned from his father that had a profound impact on him (27:20) How Ed built a business empire while being a family man (31:20) Why Ed finally got a cottage (36:40) How Ed defines success, financial security, and purpose (42:15) Why the Jewish community is self-reliant (50:51) How Ed defines chutzpah (52:32) A story you need to hear about Ed’s father (58:36) What worries Ed about the future (1:04:40) Ed’s biggest piece of advice to younger generations — Referenced: RioCan: https://www.riocan.com/ Bergen-Belsen Displaced Persons Camp: https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/bergen-belsen-displaced-persons-camp An Empire Of Their Own: How the Jews Invented Hollywood: https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Their-Own-Invented-Hollywood/dp/0385265573 | |||
| 19 Sep 2024 | From Single Mom to Billion Dollar Book Business | Heather Reisman (Founder & CEO, Indigo) | 00:59:17 | |
In 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:
— 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 | |||
| 30 Mar 2023 | The Man Who Brought Baseball to Canada and Founded Birthright: Charles Bronfman | 00:29:29 | |
Some entrepreneurs don't just build businesses, they take bold risks that can shape a country or revitalize a religion. That's Charles Bronfman. On the first episode of Big Shot, hosted by Harley Finkelstein and David Segal, you'll learn about Bronfman’s incredible upbringing, lessons, and experiences that inspired many transformational initiatives. From watching his father build Seagram’s to bringing the Expos to Canada and founding Birthright Israel. Bronfman left a legacy in business, charity, and family with endless lessons for all. — Where To Find Big Shot: Website: 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/ — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:00) Welcome to Big Shot. More about our first guest (02:15) The catalyst behind Big Shot (04:05) What is the meaning of chutzpah (05:38) How Charles brought Major League Baseball to Canada (10:02) The story of Charles telling his father, Sam, about bringing baseball to Canada (15:00) The incredible story of building Birthright Israel (20:18) What makes Jews so unique when it comes to business and entrepreneurship (26:31) Charles Bronfman’s three biggest things to consider in your life — Referenced: Distilled: Distilled A Memoir of Family, Seagram, Baseball, and Philanthropy: https://www.amazon.com/Distilled-Memoir-Seagram-Baseball-Philanthropy/dp/144345396X Sam Bronfman: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samuel_Bronfman Birthright Israel: https://www.birthrightisrael.com/ Seagram’s: https://www.seagramsescapes.com/ | |||
| 27 Apr 2023 | The Power Of Kindness: How Jonathan Wener Turned A $10k Loan Into A $15 Billion Empire | 00:59:21 | |
Jonathan Wener is proof that nice guys don't finish last. The founder of Canderel, which has developed over 80 million square feet throughout Canada, has a reputation for being one of the nicest people you'll ever meet. In this episode of Big Shot, you'll discover how his bold decisions at 25 turned a $10,000 loan into more than $15 billion, how he always used kindness to create opportunity, and how he approached objections and adversity in his career. — Where To Find Big Shot: Website: 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 — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:00) Welcome to Big Shot and our guest Jonathan Wener (03:40) How Jonathan created $1M in value by 17 (09:05) Where Jonathan’s hard work ethic comes from (11:45) How Jonathan bought the Student Union building and got the mayor’s attention (14:38) Integrity over revenue (20:30) Jonathan’s first deal with $5,000 in his bank account (29:01) What made Jonathan quit his job overnight and start his own business (36:17) A story around building a strong business relationship (43:18) The incredible Royal Trust story (52:00) The importance of giving back and philanthropy (55:28) Jonathan’s most significant lessons in life — Referenced: Canderel: https://canderel.com/ Défi Canderel: https://deficanderel.com/ | |||
| 02 Nov 2023 | Why Billionaires Believe Work-Life Balance Is A Myth | 00:28:51 | |
One of the hardest parts of being an entrepreneur is the stress and anxiety of never having enough time. When ambition flows through your veins, it’s difficult to balance your desire to build something great with your love for your family, friends, and other interests. Being an entrepreneur requires sacrifice — but how do you do that without giving up what matters most? On this episode of Big Shot Shorts, Issy Sharp, Charles Bronfman, and Ed Sonshine reveal their regrets, rules, and recommendations for creating happiness and harmony in work and life. — In This Episode, We Cover: (01:00) Work-life balance is not a 50-50 equation (02:00) Why entrepreneurs struggle so much with finding time for everything (02:48) How consistency can help reduce stress and anxiety (03:30) David Segal’s family ritual (06:00) The most important source of support for entrepreneurs (08:00) Issy Sharp’s lessons from decades of a happy marriage (09:25) Issy Sharp’s regrets about building the Four Seasons (13:05) Charles Bronfman’s lessons on raising a family with ambition and purpose (19:00) Why it’s important to “never look back” (22:00) Ed Sonshine’s 3 rules for family happiness — 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 | |||
| 28 Sep 2023 | Integrity Is More Than A Principle -- It's The Secret To Entrepreneurial Success | 00:25:57 | |
Some of the best stories in business are the ones you never hear about. They are the deals that fell through, the partnerships that never happened, and the employees who didn’t make it. Behind those moments are decisions that shape some of the best businesses. And, when you speak with some of the world’s greatest entrepreneurs, you realize that those moments are shaped by strong values. In particular, the best entrepreneurs lean into integrity to turn risks into rewards. On this episode of Big Shot Shorts, you’ll learn how Jonathan Wener, Aldo Bensadoun, and Issy Sharp all took the hard road by trusting in integrity, doing the right thing, and making life-changing decisions that defined their businesses and led to undeniable success. — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:00) The variable not discussed enough in business (01:35) A crazy story about Starbucks and Spotify (04:35) Why Jonathan Wener left $10 million on the table (07:20) How to build great relationships and develop trust (11:45) “You’re going to outgrow us before we outgrow you.” (12:40) How Aldo’s billion-dollar business was born out of integrity (14:15) It’s possible to be a capitalist and be fair (16:20) The Four Seasons’s “sustainable competitive advantage” (19:30) How McDonald’s influenced the Four Seasons (24:40) Instilling a winning culture at all costs — 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 | |||
| 31 Aug 2023 | Legacy Lessons: The Enduring Wisdom of Our Grandparents for Success Today | 00:23:46 | |
In today’s episode, we explore stories from our guests on how their parents and the previous generation profoundly impacted their lives. You’ll hear from Ed Sonshine, Jonathan Wener, Issy Sharp, Charles Bronfman, and Aldo Bensadoun about how they learned their relentless work ethic from their parents and the power of learning by example. It’s a great example of how each generation stands on the shoulders of the giants that came before them. — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:00) Welcome to Big Shot Shorts (00:58) The power of the past generation (04:22) Ed Sonshine on the two things his father taught him (07:49) How Jonathan Wener learned his work ethic (10:37) Issy Sharp on learning by example (16:15) Charles Bronfman on learning to give back (20:04) Aldo Bensadoun on treating others with love, respect, and integrity — 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 | |||
| 20 Jun 2024 | The Godfather Of Fast Casual | Ron Shaich (Panera, CAVA) | 01:41:42 | |
When you think about a "convenience store manager," you probably don't imagine a future billionaire. But that's exactly the path Ron Shaich took from humble beginners selling Tollhouse cookies to a $7.5 billion restaurant empire. In this episode of Big Shot, Harley Finkelstein and David Segal welcome Shaich, the founder of Panera Bread, who shares his incredible journey from a nonprofit convenience store to his pivotal decision to create Panera Bread. Ron is a master at finding the trends others can't see before becoming popular. He shares the challenges and successes that defined his path, highlighting the power of adaptability and innovation. And breaks down the difference between risk-taking and risk-avoidance, and how leaning into one over the other can lead to incredible success. The episode is filled with incredible takeaways, including:
— In This Episode We Cover: (02:35) Ron’s early years growing up in New Jersey in a family of left-wing political activists (07:50) Ron’s gap year working for a congressman (09:45) How a false accusation of shoplifting prompted Ron to open a convenience store (14:50) How Ron fell in love with business and his time at Harvard Business School (19:28) The rewards of entrepreneurship (20:40) What business has in common with politics (23:22) How Ron made money selling flea collars in college (26:00) Why Ron got his inheritance early (27:35) Ron’s work in DC as President of Targeting Systems (29:08) How Ron opened The Cookie Jar in Boston (31:43) Ron’s partnership with Au Bon Pain’s founder, Louis Kane (39:44) Ron and Louis’s exceptional friendship and partnership (42:25) The importance of empathy and the insights that it brought Ron (48:35) How Ron created a brand new category, bakery cafe (51:50) How Ron felt right before Au Bon Pain’s IPO (53:00) The downsides of going public (54:50) Ron’s means, ends, and by-products framework (57:20) What Ron learned from watching his parents face death (1:00:13) How Ron organized his life (1:03:35) Ron’s purchase of the St. Louis Bread Company (1:07:28) How Ron’s trend studying led him to fast casual dining (1:13:52) The transformation of St. Louis Bread into Panera (1:15:33) Why Ron decided to sell Au Bon Pain to focus on Panera (1:20:25) The rapid growth stage of Panera (1:22:51) Ron’s philanthropy with No Labels and Panera Cares (1:25:14) The painful journey of transforming Panera (1:32:09) Thoughts on success, chutzpah, and the Jewish entrepreneurial spirit (1:34:28) Why entrepreneurs are risk avoiders (1:35:34) Why Ron sees building organizations as a way to impact the world positively (1:37:44) Ron’s investment company, Act 3, and the problem with short-termism — Where to find Ron Shaich: Website: https://www.ronshaich.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronshaich/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shaich 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 | |||
| 02 May 2024 | The Man Who Built New York City With No Money | Larry Silverstein | 01:09:18 | |
In this episode of Big Shot, we sit down with another legendary real estate developer, Larry Silverstein. Best known for the 99-year lease he signed for the World Trade Center, just six weeks before 9/11, Larry’s story is one of persistence and strategic partnerships—and a whole lot of chutzpah. He shares with us today how he leveraged partnerships, refurbished properties on a shoestring budget and built a business that today is valued at over $10 billion. As with many successful Jewish entrepreneurs, family is at the center of it all, and Larry speaks with extreme gratitude about his children and wife Klara. You won’t want to miss hearing about how Larry very narrowly missed being at ground zero during 9/11, and how his wife supported his efforts in rebuilding the World Trade Center. 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: (03:19) How Larry got established in real estate with no money (09:59) Why Larry turned down a 100k profit on his first contract (12:51) How Larry leveraged investors to land million-dollar properties (14:22) The low-budget, resourceful way Larry’s team refurbished buildings (16:31) How Larry collaborated with competitors in purchasing 711 Fifth Avenue (24:42) Coca-Cola’s purchase of 711 Fifth Avenue (26:43) Why Larry worked with partners (27:33) The beginning of Larry’s journey toward buying the World Trade Center (35:22) How Silverstein Properties built their own electric plant (45:28) The drama of signing Salomon Brothers (52:44) Larry’s accident and acquiring the World Trade Center (58:45) Why Larry was absent from the building on 9/11 (1:00:20) How Larry decided to rebuild the World Trade Center (1:04:21) When Larry knew he made it (1:06:28) Larry’s philanthropic efforts paying the tuition of medical school students — Referenced: Harry Helmsley: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Helmsley 711 Fifth Avenue Purchased from Columbia Pictures: https://www.nytimes.com/1978/04/23/archives/realty-news-fifth-avenue-third-avenue-executives-named.html George Kaufman’s obituary: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/26/obituaries/george-s-kaufman-who-revived-astoria-studios-dies-at-89.html Peter Feinberg obituary: https://www.nytimes.com/1990/03/15/obituaries/peter-i-feinberg-79-real-estate-developer.html Port Authority to lease World Trade Center to Silverstein Properties: https://www.panynj.gov/port-authority/en/press-room/press-release-archives/2001_press_releases/port_authority_toleaseworldtradecentertosilversteinpropertiesinc.html World Trade Center history: https://www.911memorial.org/learn/resources/digital-exhibitions/world-trade-center-history Ed Koch: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ed_Koch Salomon Brothers: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salomon_Brothers Mortimer Zuckerman: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mortimer_Zuckerman Salomon Will Move to the World Trade Center: https://www.nytimes.com/1988/11/29/nyregion/salomon-will-move-to-trade-center.html The Collapse of Drexel Burnham Lambert: https://www.nytimes.com/1990/02/14/business/the-collapse-of-drexel-burnham-lambert-key-events-for-drexel-burnham-lambert.html NYU School of Medicine Offers Full-Tuition Scholarships to All New & Current Medical Students: https://nyulangone.org/news/nyu-school-medicine-offers-full-tuition-scholarships-all-new-current-medical-students — Where to find Larry Silverstein: Silverstein Properties: https://www.silversteinproperties.com/ The Rising: The Twenty-Year Battle to Rebuild the World Trade Center: https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Twenty-Year-Battle-Rebuild-Center/dp/0525658963 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 | |||
| 30 May 2024 | He Inspired Warren Buffett, Became A Wall Street Legend, And Made Billions | Leon Cooperman | 01:24:16 | |
In this episode of Big Shot, we sit down with Wall Street titan Leon Cooperman. The son of working-class Polish immigrants and a first-generation college graduate, Leon founded Omega Advisors after a successful 25-year career at Goldman Sachs, where he rose to become Chairman and CEO of Goldman Sachs Asset Management. Despite being one of the richest men on the planet, Leon lives modestly, even still changing his own lightbulbs. In this fascinating conversation, he shares insights on achieving success in business, marriage, and family, along with his philosophy on giving back, inspired by the belief that "a man's net worth is measured not by what he earns but by what he gives away." Leon even gets political and shares his thoughts on former President Trump. We can’t wait for you to listen. 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: (05:34) Leon’s background growing up in the Bronx (07:36) Why Leon quit dental school and switched to economics (09:28) How Leon got 16 job offers after graduating and why he went with Goldman Sachs (11:00) Why Goldman Sachs was so successful (12:35) How Leon’s father reacted to him dropping out of dental school (13:25) Leon’s promotion to partner at Goldman Sachs (15:30) Why Lee says he never learned how to live rich (17:58) Leon’s philanthropy and why it’s so important to him (19:51) Leon’s thoughts on protestors at Columbia (25:58) Why there are many significant contributions to humanity made by the Jewish people (29:30) Why Leon left Goldman Sachs and founded Omega (33:10) The rogue employee that caused Leon to be accused of insider trading (36:20) Why Leon considers Henry Singleton brilliant (42:52) What Leon loves to do (43:57) Leon’s hands-on approach to philanthropy (46:17) Why Leon went to Xerox out of college(and why he left to go back to school) (50:15) Leon’s successful marriage and his big takeaway (51:45) Why Leon stuck it out with Goldman Sachs for so long (53:25) Lessons from William Hurt and Teddy Roosevelt (54:40) Why Leon changes his own lightbulbs in spite of his arthritis (55:37) How Leon raised his kids to be self-starters (57:00) David Rubenstein’s recent purchase of the Orioles (57:57) Leon’s 40 businesses (59:25) What chutzpah means to Leon and the importance of respect (1:00:15) Leon’s thoughts on capitalism as an equalizer (1:04:41) Leon’s political views (1:06:02) Why Leon would never vote for Trump (1:07:01) Leon’s father and the impact he had on him (1:09:10) How Leon chooses institutions to donate to (1:10:45) How Leon handles setbacks (1:12:35) Why Leon thinks the country isn’t at its best (1:13:40) Leon’s thoughts on AI (1:14:22) Leon’s mother and her impact on him (1:15:36) Why it’s common for Jewish people to have a fallback plan (1:17:35) Advice on investing (1:21:05) How Leon evaluates companies — Where to find Leon Cooperman: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leon-cooperman-8ab35024/
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 | |||
| 18 Jan 2024 | From No-Name Producer To The Queen of Broadway: Fran Weissler | 01:21:07 | |
We’re back with Season 2 of Big Shot! In this episode of Big Shot, we're joined by Fran Weissler, a seven-time Tony award-winning producer and one-half of the dynamic duo behind Chicago, the longest-running American musical. Fran's journey epitomizes Jewish chutzpah, marked by bold choices—from leaving her first marriage to making decisive moves in her Broadway career. Today, Fran shares with us stories from her journey, including breaking into Broadway at the age of 50 and producing Othello with a star-studded cast featuring James Earl Jones and Christopher Plummer. We also talk about her successful marriage and business partnership of 55 years, how Fran navigated challenges working with chauvinists and demanding actors, and how she finally started to slow down a little bit at the age of 90. — In This Episode We Cover: (02:35) Fran’s childhood and life before Broadway (07:04) Why Fran decided to end her first marriage (08:59) How Fran met Barry and got started in theater (15:02) The early days of NAMCO producing plays for Catholic schools (19:00) Fran’s first Broadway show, Othello, with James Earl Jones (21:52) How Fran got Christopher Plummer to play Iago (31:34) What it was like to win a Tony for Othello (33:33) How firing Peter Coe accelerated Fran’s career as a producer (45:30) Fran’s chutzpah (48:20) How Fran and Barry balance each other out as a team (51:14) How Fran handled working with the chauvinist Anthony Quinn (1:00:15) A compromise made with Kathleen Turner (1:03:26) The Queen of Broadway: Fran’s identity separate from Barry (1:05:28) Fran and Barry’s rare, beautiful marriage (1:09:32) How Fran and Barry revived Chicago and made the longest-running American show (1:19:11) Fran’s advice for aspiring producers — Referenced: NAMCO: https://www.namcousa.com/ Othello at the Winter Garden Theater (1982): https://playbill.com/productions/othellobroadway-winter-garden-theatre-1982 James Earl Jones: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000469/ Christopher Plummer: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001626/ Lucy Kroll: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucy_Kroll Stratford Festival: https://www.stratfordfestival.ca/ Lou Pitt: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1018725/ Zoe Caldwell: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0129807/ Robert Whitehead: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0925723/ Medea 1982 playbill: https://playbill.com/production/medea-cort-theatre-vault-0000003496 Chicago: https://chicagothemusical.com/ Phantom of the Opera: https://us.thephantomoftheopera.com/ When Kathleen Turner Brought Maggie the Cat Back to Broadway: https://playbill.com/article/when-kathleen-turner-brought-maggie-the-cat-back-to-broadway Zorba the Greek 1983 playbill with Anthony Quinn: https://playbill.com/production/zorba-broadway-theatre-vault-0000012262 Encores: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Encores The economics of Broadway shows: https://thehustle.co/the-economics-of-broadway-shows/ — Where to find Fran Weissler: Website: https://www.namcousa.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 | |||
| 06 Mar 2025 | The Prosperity Formula: The Man Who Predicted—and Changed—the Future of Finance, Medicine, Education and Philanthropy | Mike Milken | 01:31:38 | |
In 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 | |||
| 12 Dec 2024 | How The Founder of Waze Went From Getting Fired To Building a Billion-Dollar Business | Uri Levine | 00:19:05 | |
In 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/ — 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 | |||
| 13 Apr 2023 | Building A Billion-Dollar Shoe Brand From Scratch: Aldo Bensadoun | 00:45:58 | |
If you have ever wondered if you have what it takes to become an entrepreneur, then listening to Aldo Bensadoun's story could be a life-changing experience. Entrepreneurship is a natural calling for some. For others, it's a destiny that seems to find them. In this episode, Aldo takes us on a journey from his humble beginnings to building a billion-dollar brand that may have never existed if it wasn't for one life-changing decision that turned a loyal employee into a trailblazing founder who still feels like he has something to prove. — Where To Find Big Shot: Website: 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 — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:00) Welcome to Big Shot and our guest Aldo Bensodaun (03:10) Aldo’s upbringing (06:20) How Aldo sold encyclopedias door-to-door (11:00) How Aldo ended up in retail after all (14:45) Why Aldo eventually decided to start his own business (20:15) Aldo’s business model – be a capitalist and a fair person (26:30) The key decisions in Aldo’s life (27:20) Why Aldo stopped working with their biggest partner (31:38) How Skechers was created on a napkin (34:00) Cause marketing and Jewish heritage (34:98) What makes Jewish entrepreneurs so unique (37:00) What Aldo wants you to learn from his life (41:08) Aldo’s proudest accomplishment (43:06) Why Aldo feels he still hasn’t made it (43:56) Would life have been different if Aldo had stayed with his former boss (44:55) The ultimate discount setup — Referenced: Phi Epsilon Pi: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phi_Epsilon_Pi Le Château: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le_Ch%C3%A2teau Dr. Martens: https://www.drmartens.com/us/en/ Robert Greenberg: https://about.skechers.com/executive-team/ Tikkun Olam: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tikkun_olam | |||
| 21 Mar 2024 | It's Better To Be Rich Than Right: Peter May | 01:38:45 | |
In this episode of Big Shot, we're honored to host business mogul Peter May. But his path to managing more than $7 billion is not what you might expect. What started as a career as an accountant at the prestigious KPMG quickly became something much different once Peter crossed paths with Nelson Peltz, igniting a dynamic partnership that spanned decades. Together, they founded Triarc Companies and pioneered innovative funding strategies, revitalizing numerous struggling businesses. They eventually sold the company and founded Trian Partners, a multi-billion dollar investment firm. Peter's commitment to philanthropy extends beyond financial contributions, as he invests his time and expertise. Notably, his impactful work with Mount Sinai Health Systems and Operation Exodus showcases his dedication to making a difference. Join us as Peter generously imparts invaluable insights and practical wisdom applicable to all aspects of life. In This Episode We Cover: (07:28) What it was like growing up during the Cold War in Long Island (12:12) How his father was a great role model (14:33) Peter’s time at The University of Chicago (16:25) How Peter was inspired by his father’s saying, “Do more than what’s expected of you” (22:24) The Jewish value of education (24:53) How Peter was able to avoid being drafted to Vietnam (30:59) Getting started as an accountant at KPMG (32:40) How Peter met Nelson Peltz (34:24) The importance of adding value (36:11) The origins of Home Depot (38:16) How Peter and Nelson Peltz went into business together (41:00) When Peter and Nelson took their company public (44:25) What happened after Peter and Nelson sold Flagstaff foods (49:20) Peter and Nelson’s funding strategy emerges (50:42) How MPM group consulting got its start (51:57) What constructive capitalism is (54:10) How Peter and Nelson bought Triangle Industries (1:00:29) How Peter and Nelson transformed Triangle and made it profitable (1:03:18) The purchase of America Can and National Can (1:17:03) The meaning of Nelson’s phrase “I’d rather be rich than right” (1:18:53) Why Peter doesn’t look back much (1:20:14) Why chutzpah is so quintessential to the Jewish entrepreneurial experience (1:22:23) Why Peter doesn’t feel like he’s made it still (1:23:30) About “engaged philanthropy” and how Peter helped turn around Mount Sinai Health (1:30:15) Peter’s advice to the next generation (1:33:26) About Operation Exodus (1:36:33) Peter’s legacy— Referenced: Green tea benefits: https://www.firebellytea.com/blogs/all/green-tea-benefits Firebelly Tea: https://www.firebellytea.com/ The University of Chicago: https://www.uchicago.edu/en Pogroms: https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/pogroms Nelson Peltz: https://www.forbes.com/profile/nelson-peltz/ Arthur Anderson: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_Andersen KPMG: https://kpmg.com/ Emerson Radio: https://www.emersonradio.com/ Bernard Marcus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernard_Marcus Mike Milken: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Milken Saul Steinberg: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saul_Steinberg Victor Posner: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_Posner Alcoa: https://www.alcoa.com/global/en/home/ Mount Sinai Health System: https://www.mountsinai.org/ Engaged philanthropy: https://engagedgiving.org/philosophy Operation Exodus: https://operationexodususa.org/ — Where to find Peter May: Mount Sinai Health: https://www.mountsinai.org/about/board-leadership/peter-may Wendy’s: https://www.wendys.com/who-we-are/board-directors/peter-may 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 | |||
| 30 Jan 2025 | The Queen of Branding: Lynda Resnick’s $6 Billion Empire of FIJI Water, POM, & Wonderful Pistachios | 01:11:36 | |
In 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 | |||
| 21 Nov 2024 | From College Dropout to Running Polo, Nike, Weight Watchers, and HSN | Mindy Grossman | 01:23:29 | |
In 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:
— 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 | |||
| 30 Nov 2023 | Jewish Titans and Untold Triumphs: Predicting the 2008 Crash, The Architect of Canadian Pride, and More Hidden Stories You've Never Heard! | 00:31:34 | |
When you sit down with iconic entrepreneurs for two to three hours, it's hard to include every story in an episode. But that doesn't mean every story isn't worth telling. On this episode of Big Shot shorts, you'll hear some wild tales that didn't make it into individual episodes of season 1. You'll learn how Ed Sonshine anticipated the 2008 crash, what Aldo Bensadoun did to break into America when so many others failed, how Charles Bronfman shaped Canadian pride, and Jonathan Wener's wild story about acquiring a massive art collection. These are the stories that, once you hear them, you'll want to retell to others. — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:20) Harley and David have an epiphany about their Canadian upbringing (01:50) Every Canadian retailer fails, except for one (02:10) Why this bonus episode was necessary (03:10) Jonathan Wener's family collection of 140 paintings (05:55) How Ed Sonshine anticipated the 2008 housing crash (10:00) How passing up on a round of golf was one of Ed Sonshine's best decisions (17:45) How Charles Bronfman was behind Drake's start (18:30) Why Charles Bronfman created Heritage Minutes (22:25) How Aldo Bensadoun succeed in America when so many others failed (28:25)The only lawsuit Jonathan Wener faced in 52 years — 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 | |||
| 17 Aug 2023 | How To Live A Rich Life Through Giving Back | 00:26:16 | |
In today’s episode, we dive into the concept of philanthropy and its importance for each of our season 1 guests. Tikkun Olam is a concept in Judaism that refers to various forms of action intended to repair and improve the world. You’ll hear this theme from each of today’s guests. Whether it is Issy Sharp explaining why he has helped raise $1 billion for the Terry Fox Run or Jonathan Wener saying that the best way to live a rich life is by giving back. We explore the importance of giving to the next generation and why we are truly put in this world to make it a better place. — In This Episode, We Cover: (00:00) Our second Big Shot Shorts episode (03:40) Aldo Bensadoun: We are put on earth to fix the world (08:03) The story of raising $1 billion for charity (14:55) Ed Sonshine on the privilege money provides (17:49) Charles Bronfman on philanthropy (19:04) How to live a rich life through giving back (25:43) Thanks for listening — 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 — Referenced: Terry Fox Run: https://terryfox.org/ Reshaping The Future of Retail: https://www.mcgill.ca/bensadoun-school/ Mount Sinai: https://www.mountsinai.on.ca/ Defi Canderel: https://deficanderel.com/our-story | |||