#373 Breakfast with Brad Jacobs + How To Make A Few Billion Dollars

Topics covered
Popular Clips
Questions from this episode
- Asked by 52 people
- Asked by 49 people
- Asked by 45 people
- Asked by 42 people
- Asked by 38 people
- Asked by 34 people
- Asked by 25 people
- Asked by 24 people
- Asked by 20 people
- Asked by 18 people
Episode Highlights
Top Talent
emphasizes the importance of hiring top talent, a principle he considers crucial for any successful CEO. He believes that the ability to think dialectically and adapt is essential, as rigid thinkers are less valuable in dynamic environments. Brad advises that organizations should aim to recruit ambitious individuals who elevate the team's overall performance.
An empty seat is less damaging than a poor fit.
---
This philosophy aligns with 's view that a small team of A players can outperform larger teams of B and C players 1 2.
Overpayment
Brad advocates for overpaying top talent, arguing that the cost of hiring less capable individuals far outweighs the savings. He cites 's return to Apple as an example, where the investment in talent yielded significant returns. Brad's approach is to ensure that his team is motivated not just by the mission but also by competitive compensation.
It's nearly impossible to overpay for talent.
---
This strategy underscores the importance of recognizing the dynamic range of human capabilities and investing in those who can drive the organization forward 3 4.
Authenticity
shares insights from his breakfast with Brad, highlighting the value of authenticity in leadership. Brad's genuine approach to business and life, including his openness about personal experiences, resonates with many. This authenticity, combined with a focus on recruiting the smartest individuals, creates a strong organizational culture.
People love authenticity way more than they love perfection.
---
Brad's emphasis on hiring superlative talent aligns with his belief that extraordinary people are key to achieving exceptional results 5 6.
Related Episodes


#335 How To Make A Few Billion Dollars: Brad Jacobs
Answers 383 questions
#358 I had dinner with John Mackey, Founder of Whole Foods
Answers 383 questions
#374 Rare Jeff Bezos Interview
Answers 383 questions
#7 Grinding It Out: The Making of McDonald's
Answers 383 questions

#228 Michael Bloomberg
Answers 383 questions
#279 What I Learned Before I Sold to Warren Buffett
Answers 383 questions
#353 How To Be Rich by J. Paul Getty
Answers 383 questions

#91 Jim Clayton (Sold to Warren Buffett)
Answers 383 questions
#36 Finding The Next Steve Jobs: How to Find, Keep, and Nurture Talent
Answers 383 questions
#321 Working with Jeff Bezos
Answers 383 questions
#366 Mr. Beast Leaked Memo
Answers 383 questions
#182 Warren Buffett (The Making of an American Capitalist)
Answers 383 questions
#355 Rare Bernard Arnault Interview
Answers 383 questions

A conversation with David and Ben from the Acquired podcast
Answers 383 questions
#293: Ray Kroc (The Making of McDonald's)
Answers 383 questions
