Retour

Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Personable

Plongez dans la liste complète des épisodes de Personable . Chaque épisode est catalogué accompagné de descriptions détaillées, ce qui facilite la recherche et l'exploration de sujets spécifiques. Suivez tous les épisodes de votre podcast préféré et ne manquez aucun contenu pertinent.

Rows per page:

1–50 of 113

TitreDateDurée
HKUST’s Stephen Shih on why an MBA education still matters in the age of AI31 Dec 202500:49:32

Send us a text

Stephen Shih joins Personable for a wide ranging conversation on consulting, academia, AI, leadership development, ethics, and preparing the next generation of executives for an increasingly complex world.

Stephen is the Associate Dean at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, a former Bain partner, and former Executive Vice President of Learning and Development. He has lived and worked across Hong Kong, Beijing, and Shanghai, advising senior executives, building leadership pipelines, and now shaping one of Asia’s leading MBA programs.

He discusses:
 ◽️ What consultants really do and why perspective matters more than jargon
 ◽️ Leaving Bain for academia and returning twice
 ◽️ AI, automation, and the future of junior consulting roles
 ◽️ Why future professionals must think like executives earlier in their careers
 ◽️ The skills that matter most in an AI driven world

00:00 Stephen’s background and transition from Bain to academia
 02:15 Consulting across Asia and leadership development
 04:30 What consultants actually do
 07:05 Perspective, judgment, and choosing the right mountain to climb
 09:15 AI, consulting, and junior talent pipelines
 12:15 Preparing for jobs that do not yet exist
 13:30 Skills, mindsets, and executive thinking in the AI era
 17:50 MBA education and developing future leaders
 19:55 Differentiating HKUST and building a global class
 23:30 Ethics, values, and responsible leadership
 26:55 Making ethical decisions when no one is watching
 28:25 Hong Kong, China, and a multipolar world
 31:15 Listening, communication, and asking better questions
 34:25 Admissions, individuality, and holistic evaluation
 38:40 Discipline, values, and professional standards
 41:10 Rankings, numbers, and misleading metrics
 43:25 Traits of the most successful students
 45:05 Networks, trust, and long term relationships
 48:10 One key takeaway for listeners

Stephen Shih:

◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenshih/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:

◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith

◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/harveybsmith

◽️ X (Twitter): https://x.com/harveybsmith_

◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/

◽️ Website: https://www.personable.media/

Personable Podcast:

◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/personable.podcast

◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast

◽️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@personableclips

◽️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

◽️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:

◽️ Fundraising: https://www.loulouracefoundation.org/donate

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023. 

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing involves risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results.

Support the show

Ismail Radwan WARNS “We Are in Scary Territory”, Why Jobs Matter More Than AI, and Market Prospects27 Dec 202501:02:32

Send us a text

Ismail Radwan returns to Personable for a wide ranging conversation on global economics, jobs, AI, geopolitics, and the future of growth.

Ismail is a Lead Economist at the World Bank focusing on the GCC and the broader MENAP region. He previously served as Senior Director for Economics and Investment Strategy at Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and spent over two decades at the World Bank.

In this episode, Ismail explains why jobs are the single most powerful tool for eradicating poverty, how AI is likely to reshape work without replacing entire economies, and why entrepreneurship matters more than individual projects. He also shares candid views on market cycles, speculative bubbles, youth unemployment, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, and how countries balance values, development, and geopolitics.

This conversation is essential listening for anyone interested in economics, policy, investing, global development, and how decisions made today will shape the next generation.

He discusses:
◽️ Why jobs are the foundation of prosperity and social stability
◽️ How the World Bank gathers data in fragile and conflict affected countries
◽️ AI, productivity, and why this cycle feels similar to past bubbles
◽️ What Saudi Arabia and the GCC are getting right with diversification
◽️ Entrepreneurship as the true driver of long term economic value
◽️ Youth unemployment, education gaps, and private sector readiness
◽️ Why markets detach from reality and how individuals should prepare
◽️ The role of values, communication, and dialogue in development

00:00 Introduction and Ismail’s background
01:40 Returning to the World Bank and MENAP focus
04:30 Why jobs matter more than any single policy
07:00 Data challenges in fragile states
11:00 AI, automation, and the future of work
18:50 Market cycles, bubbles, and historical parallels
26:00 Vision 2030 and Saudi Arabia’s transformation
31:00 Security, governance, and social stability
36:00 Entrepreneurship and economic ecosystems
42:30 GCC investment priorities and diversification
49:00 Youth unemployment and education reform
53:40 Personal finance, markets, and risk management
59:30 One key takeaway for listeners

Ismail Radwan:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ismail-radwan2021/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/
◽️ Website: https://www.personable.media/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ Fundraising: https://www.loulouracefoundation.org/donate

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023. 

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing involves risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results.

Support the show

Trump Xi Meeting Expectations, Will the Stock Market Crash?!, Silver Short Squeeze, FED Rate Cut27 Oct 202501:14:27

Send us a text

In this episode of Personable Markets, host Harvey Bracken-Smith and Luke dive into surging global markets as the S&P 500 hits record highs. They explore international outperformance, Magnificent 7 earnings, gold and silver rallies, Fed rate cut expectations, and key geopolitical shifts like the Trump-Xi meeting and US-Canada tariffs.

Luke Sloman, a third-year Business and Management student at the University of Exeter, joins Personable for his fourth appearance while studying abroad at the University of Sydney. Originally from Tokyo until age 13, he moved to the UK for boarding school, focusing his studies on finance-related modules.

Luke shares sharp insights on real-time market trends, analyzing interconnected economies, AI-driven valuations, and trade policies. The duo discusses whether a market crash looms, balancing risks like overvaluation with opportunities in today’s volatile landscape.

In this episode, Luke Sloman discusses:
◽️ Global market rallies: S&P 500 vs. KOSPI, DAX, and Nikkei
◽️ AI and tech overvaluation: bubble risks in semiconductors
◽️ Commodity surges: gold at $4,500/oz, silver short squeezes
◽️ Fed rate cuts: employment focus, market impacts
◽️ US-China trade: tariff pauses, agricultural deals
◽️ Trump’s Asia strategy: ASEAN summit, Japan/South Korea talks

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro 
04:43 South Korean reforms: trading fee cuts, Lee Jae-myung
05:30 UK FTSE 100: overseas earnings, commodity tailwinds
06:45 Gold at $4,500/oz: hedging, historical highs
07:30 Silver short squeeze: mechanics, leverage impacts
20:00 Market liquidity: VC saturation, government incentives
23:14 Fed rate cut: 98% chance for 25 bps on October 29
26:00 Employment focus: labor softening, inflation trade-offs
27:06 Tariffs as bargaining: US worker benefits, Apple case
28:30 Job market struggles: AI displacing graduates
31:00 Human-AI synergies: workplace collaboration
43:47 Trump-Xi meeting: trade war de-escalation
45:00 Framework agreement: tariff pauses, ag purchases
1:00:00 Government shutdown: 24th day, data delays
1:04:49 JP Morgan study: missing best days cuts returns
1:05:19 Staying invested: long-term importance
1:07:39 Retail sources: X, YouTube, Reddit for edges
1:09:00 Closing: market accuracy, critical thinking

📌 Resources
Luke Sloman:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-sloman-87a6742a9/?originalSubdomain=uk

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/
◽️ Website: https://www.personable.media/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): https://thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023. 

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before ma

Support the show

Building a Business with 30 million users: Tutor2U Geoff Riley | Ep 13 24 Dec 202300:47:50

Send us a text

Episode 13 of Personable features Geoff Riley, a titan in the field of education with a staggering 38 years of shaping young minds, as we trace his incredible journey from Yorkshire to international educational influence. Geoff isn't just a revered teacher; he's the entrepreneurial force behind Tutor2u, reaching over 30 million learners each year. We share his poignant story, from the personal loss that led to the birth of a groundbreaking educational resource to how he and his brother Jim have crafted an unparalleled learning platform that combines passion with innovation.

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

$1.3 million in Scholarships & Acceptance to 50+ Schools - How did Daya Brown do it? | Ep 1217 Dec 202301:00:31

Send us a text

Daya Brown was accepted to 50 colleges and earned $1.3 Million in Scholarship money during her senior year of high school. Daya ended up choosing Duke University where she is now a freshman student. In episode 12 of Personable, we explore the journey of what led Daya to such an incredible accomplishment. If not obvious already the amazing feat is not the end result of the amount of money she received, the colleges she was accepted to and the university she ended up at but instead the incredible experiences, accomplishments and lessons that she had along the way. 

Background: Daya is the daughter of successful businessman Olu Brown. During her childhood, she was exposed to this lifestyle and it inspired her to think differently from a young age. In her early teenage years, Daya became one of the youngest interns for Warner Studios ever; was accepted as 1 of 25/1000 for a Harvard Debating project; created a podcast the Scholar Social; founded a Production Company called Elom & Co Productions + more! 

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

Duke freshman Leon Zhang's Journey to Raising $350k & building a $1M Investment Firm | Ep 1110 Dec 202301:08:48

Send us a text

Leon Zhang, a Duke University freshman, entrepreneur, writer and researcher, shares his journey from childhood in China to becoming a research assistant at Columbia University at 14 years old! Leon is an expert on China and its relationship with the outside World. He discusses the benefits of research and knowledge in solving real-world issues and the importance of understanding China's perspective in global relations. Leon talks about his ventures in entrepreneurship, including helping to found Multum and raising $350,000 for his startup. He emphasises the value of building networks and the role of advisors in his success. Leon is the Founding Partner of Iuventus Capital which is raising $1m in capital. Additionally, Leon highlights the significance of education and his role as an advisor for Yuto, bridging the gap between American and Chinese businesses. In this conversation, Leon Zhang shares his experiences in building trust and facilitating investments, his future plans and mindset, advice for young entrepreneurs, the startup culture at elite universities, venture capital and entrepreneurship in China, and finding happiness and success. He emphasises the importance of trust, courage, and dedication in entrepreneurship and encourages listeners to pursue what makes them happy.

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

How LSE Grad James Frost Built 2 Successful Businesses & Reached the Front Row of Fashion Week Ep 1005 Dec 202300:55:21

Send us a text

James Frost founded his first business at age 18 & has now scaled two businesses. He is a big fan of fashion having infiltrated the most exclusive fashion shows worldwide, from the prestigious Paris Fashion Week to the iconic Burberry showcase and the sensational London Fashion Show.

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

Duke Professor Dr. Stuart Pimm Stresses the Need to Save our Species from Extinction | Ep 926 Nov 202300:50:39

Send us a text

Episode 9 of Personable features Dr. Stuart Pimm who is the Doris Duke Chair of Conservation Ecology at Duke University and a globally recognized environmental scientist. 

Dr. Pimm, renowned for his insights into current-day extinctions and strategies to prevent them, emphasizes that everyone can contribute to the planet's survival. In 2019  he was awarded the Cosmos Prize, joining the ranks of prestigious environmentalists like Jane Goodall and David Attenborough. His accolades include the Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement and the Dr. A.H. Heineken Prize for Environmental Sciences.

Dr. Pimm actively advises U.S. House and Senate Committees and international governments on environmental and biodiversity issues. His work extends to National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative and conservation projects in Africa, the Amazon, and China. Authoring over 300 papers and several influential books, Dr. Pimm is a notable educator and mentor.

This episode delves into the urgency of biodiversity conservation, highlighting the recent COP 15 convention's goal to protect 30% of land and ocean. It showcases how technology, like the iNaturalist app, and individual actions can contribute to sustainability. The discussion also covers ethical lifestyle choices and celebrates the strides in conservation science and protected areas. Dr. Pimm inspires collective action for environmental change particularly at a local level. 

This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in making a positive difference on our planet. 

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

Meet Guy Kinnings the Man who Runs Golf: Dep. CEO DP World Tour & Executive Director Ryder Cup Ep 809 Nov 202300:55:05

Send us a text

We're thrilled to welcome Guy Kinnings, the Deputy CEO of the DP World Tour and the Executive Director of the Ryder Cup. A titan in the world of golf, Guy shares his unique journey from a legal background to becoming an influential figure in the World of golf.

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

Unlocking Success: Nick Wheeler on Building a Billion-Dollar Clothing Empire | Personable Ep 715 Oct 202301:00:26

Send us a text

Meet Nick Wheeler, the founder of one of the world’s most esteemed menswear brands. In this episode, we discuss his mastermind as we uncover the story behind Charles Tyrwhitt and what led Nick to where he is today. 

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

Meet Iain Alexander | Former Olympic Swimmer, International DJ & artist for the Royal Family | Ep 630 Aug 202300:59:31

Send us a text

Episode 6 of Personable features Iain Alexander. Iain has reached the top of many fields, and this episode promises to be a good one. Iain made the swimming squad for the 2000 Olympics but unfortunately had to pull out due to injury. Following this, he became an international DJ, travelling to over 4 countries a week! He made friends with DJs such as Avicii and shared the wisdom and stories that he picked up from his own experiences and the legends he surrounded himself with. Iain then transitioned into his current main endeavour: art. Iain is an extremely talented artist who has developed an incredible skill for creating unique artwork whilst also having an incredible business mindset and an ability to have clientele in the highest echelons of the World. 

Portraits & Clients include: Queen Elizabeth II ,Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nayen (former Ruler of UAE), Sheikh Khalifa Bin Sultan Al Nayen (Ruler of UAE), Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani (Ruler of Qatar), the Malaysian royal family, Dame Vivienne Westwood, David Beckham, Jim Morrison, Kanye West, Mick Jagger, Madonna, Kurt Cobain, Jimmy Hendrix, Will Smith, Daniel Craig and Alexander McQueen, Mohammad Ali and Kurt Cobain.

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

Tim Henman | Meet the Tennis Legend with 15 ATP Titles & an Olympic Medal | Personable Ep 5 18 Aug 202300:58:52

Send us a text

Episode 5 of Personable features tennis legend Tim Henman OBE. Tim is a former No. 1 British tennis player who reached a career-high of No. 4 globally. Tim reached the semi-finals of 6 majors, including four at Wimbledon. There is even a Hill named after Tim called Henman Hill outside the centre court. Tim has won 15 ATP titles, 11 in singles and 4 in doubles. He also became an Olympic medalist when he won Silver at the 1996 Atlanta Games. Tim currently serves on Wimbledon's board, commentates, and is the Founder of the Tim Henman Foundation https://henmanfoundation.org. Tim is one of the most successful British players of the Open Era, winning $11,635,542 prize money.

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

Sunetra Sarker | Her journey, fame & the rise of wokeism | Brookside, Casualty, Ackley Bridge | Ep 404 Jun 202301:08:07

Send us a text

Sunetra Sarker is a distinguished actress celebrated for her diverse and high-profile career, captivating audiences with her versatile performances in both television and film. Brought up in Liverpool with her Indian family, she garnered initial recognition as a teenager for her portrayal of Nisha Batra in Channel 4's "Brookside" from 1988 to 1991. Subsequently, she was one of the four leads in Channel 4's cult hit, "No Angels."

Sunetra then established herself with a nearly nine-year stint as Dr Zoe Hanna in the long-running British medical drama series "Casualty," from 2007 to 2016. This portrayal of the dedicated and straight-talking doctor resonated with audiences and earned her critical acclaim. After her time on "Casualty," she has consistently added high-quality credits to her portfolio. These include leading roles in "Safe House 2" for ITV, five series of "Ackley Bridge" for Channel 4 (winning the Asian Media Award for best character 2019 and the Yorkshire RTS Best Actor 2022), and the BAFTA-nominated "Informer" (co-starring Bel Powley and Paddy Considine).

She has also appeared in various television shows such as "Dr. Who," "The Bay," "Cold Feet," and the final series of "Broadchurch," bringing depth and authenticity to every character she embodies. Sunetra’s debut at the RSC in David Edgar's adaptation of "A Christmas Carol" received high praise from critics. More recently, she played a lead in the 4-part heist drama 'Desperate Measures' alongside Amanda Abbington and Warren Brown. She is currently filming as a lead in the fourth episode of "Professor T" for ITV and as a guest in "Breeders" for Sky.

Sunetra is a regular face on several non-scripted shows, including "Gogglebox" and "Loose Women," and she hosts her own podcast, 'Self Care with Sunetra'.

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

How GOAT Tommy Hyland Made Millions Counting Cards, Built the Most Successful Team & Beat Vegas!21 Oct 202501:16:32

Send us a text

Tommy Hyland, one of the greatest blackjack players of all time and a 2002 inductee into the Blackjack Hall of Fame, returns for his second appearance on Personable.

From decades of professional card counting to a 9–0 legal record defending players’ rights, Tommy has spent over 40 years beating casinos with skill, math, and grit. Known for running one of the longest-standing blackjack teams in history, he shares how he turned card counting from a side hustle into a full-time career — and why he believes professional play is “fighting the good fight.”

In this episode, Tommy reveals what it takes to survive and thrive as a professional blackjack player.
He explains the math behind card counting, how to manage risk using the Kelly Criterion, and what separates hobbyists from pros. From casino surveillance and legal battles to emotional control and bankroll discipline, Tommy breaks down how to stay ahead of both the cards — and the house.

In this episode, Tommy Hyland discusses:
◽️ Card counting vs. casino countermeasures — legal, ethical, and tactical realities
◽️ Building a blackjack network — teams, mentorship, and trust in the industry
◽️ The “brotherhood” of professional players and how new players can break in
◽️ The Kelly Criterion — how much to bet and when to walk away
◽️ How to manage risk, emotion, and long-term swings

-

⏱ Timestamps

00:00 Intro / Welcome to Personable
00:33 Life update — golf, blackjack, and staying sharp
02:20 Casino restrictions and playing smart under pressure
07:30 Why most casinos don’t use continuous shufflers
09:30 The blackjack brotherhood — community and shared intel
11:00 How to find mentors, teams, and investors
13:30 The Blackjack Ball and the legends who attend
15:00 Comparing blackjack, poker, and sports betting
26:00 Fighting back: 9–0 legal record against casino bans
31:00 The Kelly Criterion explained — how much to bet per hand
35:00 Emotional control and bankroll management
40:00 Building a team, finding investors, scaling your play
45:00 Handling swings, losses, and staying rational
55:00 Influences, mentors, and the evolution of advantage play
1:00:00 Legal battles, lawsuits, and false arrests
1:11:00 Believing the math — advice for new players
1:14:00 Legacy, life beyond blackjack, and what’s next

-

📌 Resources
Tommy Hyland:
◽️ Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Hyland

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn:  https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram:  https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter):  https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter:  https://personable.substack.com/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram:  https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn:  https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up):  https://thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising:  https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investme

Support the show

Uncovering Kyran Bracken's Incredible Journey: From Rugby Champion to Dancing on Ice Star! Ep 3 25 May 202301:00:56

Send us a text

Episode 3 features my uncle Kyran Bracken, a 2003 World Cup-winning rugby player, the winner of Dancing on Ice 2007 and more!

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

Andrea Pinchen | CEO of Leicester Tigers | Personable Episode 208 Apr 202300:54:22

Send us a text

When the World was shutting down Andrea stepped up as the new CEO of one of the most established and decorated clubs in Premiership Rugby. From the beginning of the pandemic, Andrea was thrown right into the deep end having to lay off over 30 staff, say goodbye to 5 important players, deal with leakages to the press, get acquitted with her new role, and save the club from a financial and health crisis. Through her determination in bringing the club together, working with a re-shuffled board, and the now England coach Steve Borthwick Leicester came back after having nearly being demoted to winning the Premiership the following season. In this episode, I was very privileged to hear from the first female CEO in Premiership rugby, to learn about her leadership strategies, both her goals and lessons from the club, Leicester’s analytical approach, and her wider thoughts about the game itself. 

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

Ruben Gnanalingam | CEO of Westports & Owner of QPR | Personable Episode 113 Feb 202300:59:38

Send us a text

Episode 1 of Personable features Ruben Gnanalingam, the CEO of Westports & Owner of QPR Football Club.

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Connect with Harvey:
Harvey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith/ 
Harvey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmith/
Personable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveybsmithpodcast_/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api

My dad's startup: https://www.thedraft.io/
Donate to the charity we have founded in memory of my mum: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Support the show

Havard PHD Dr John Harpham: Why Slavery Existed, Cancel Culture & How We Move Forward21 Oct 202501:05:01

Send us a text

Dr. John Harpham, historian, Harvard PhD, Duke graduate, and author of The Intellectual Origins of American Slavery — a book nominated for the History Pulitzer Prize — joins Personable to explore the intellectual and moral foundations of one of history’s greatest wrongs.

From growing up in New Orleans to studying at Harvard and teaching across America’s top universities, John shares how a decade-long journey through rare books and political thought reshaped his understanding of human morality, freedom, and the legacy of slavery.

In this episode, John explains how he turned from a student of ideas into a scholar of history — and how studying slavery changes the way we understand ourselves.

He breaks down why slavery wasn’t just an economic system but an intellectual one, shaped by the moral reasoning, theology, and politics of its time. The conversation explores race, freedom, cancel culture, moral relativism, and the timeless need for critical thinking.

In this episode, Dr. John Harpham discusses:
◽️ Falling in love with books and scholarship at a young age
◽️ The leap from consumer to producer of knowledge
◽️ How he researched 16th–17th-century texts to trace slavery’s origins
◽️ Slavery as both an economic and intellectual institution
◽️ How moral “attention” shifts across history — and why that matters

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro 
00:34 Why John loves books and writing
05:00 Producing knowledge and the discipline of research
11:30 Growing up in New Orleans and confronting history
15:00 Remembering vs. erasing — how to deal with the past
17:00 The moral lessons of slavery and self-reflection
20:20 Monuments, commemoration, and moral complexity
25:00 Cancel culture and freedom of thought
32:00 Race, economics, and the origins of slavery
39:30 The moral logic that justified slavery
43:00 Moral relativism vs. moral absolutism
47:00 Why critical thinking is democracy’s foundation
49:30 How academia can protect reason and open debate
53:00 Lessons learned from writing for a decade
54:00 The biggest takeaways from studying slavery
57:00 Being nominated for the History Pulitzer Prize
59:00 Legacy, teaching, and what’s next — Volume Two
1:02:00 One thing every listener should take away

-

📌 Resources
Dr. John Harpham:
◽️ Page: https://www.ou.edu/cas/classicsandletters/people/john-harpham

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn:  https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram:  https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter):  https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter:  https://personable.substack.com/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram:  https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn:  https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up):  https://thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising:  https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing involves risks, and past perfor

Support the show

Trump Imposes 100% Tariffs on China, US-China AI War, Mag 7 Future, Gold Hits $4,000!13 Oct 202501:04:19

Send us a text

Stephen Roberts, Founder of Orgueil Capital (an investment vehicle with its North Star to quintuple capital over the next 8–9 years) and former Partner at Horseman Capital, returns to Personable Markets for his third appearance.

From navigating hedge fund cycles to founding his own investment vehicle, Stephen brings decades of experience in global macro investing and portfolio construction. In this episode, he breaks down the real-time market volatility, the U.S.–China standoff over rare earths, the AI-driven reshaping of industries, and why he believes we’re entering a new commodities cycle.

With deep insights into policy, behavioral investing, and structural shifts across energy, gold, and tech, Stephen shares his framework for surviving volatility and thriving through the next decade of change.

In this episode, Stephen Roberts discusses:
◽️ Trump’s rare earths tweet and the latest market sell-off
◽️ AI’s winners and losers — why jobs and society are at risk
◽️ U.S.–China energy economics and rare earth dependencies
◽️ The Magnificent 7, valuations, and whether we’re in a bubble
◽️ Gold, commodities, and the next supercycle
◽️ Why AI could cause the next recession
◽️ Oil prices, defense stocks, and global macro risks
◽️ Portfolio construction for the next 10 years — equities, bonds & gold

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:37 Market volatility, Trump’s China tweet & rare earths
03:27 AI, commodities & “mining for AI”
07:01 U.S. vs. China — electricity, chips & competitive edges
09:20 The Magnificent 7: bubble or earnings-backed growth?
13:02 Leadership risk & investor psychology
17:19 AI’s job destruction, social fabric & regulation
24:25 The creator economy & new opportunities
29:17 Spotify, ownership of data & the new AI winners
34:44 Saudi Arabia, sovereign funds & poor investments
36:53 Gold, commodities & portfolio positioning
42:27 Bonds, deficits & a 20-year bear market
45:25 U.S. debt, taxation & political cycles
47:34 Key macro risks: oil, inflation & rates
55:55 Oil, defense stocks & geopolitics
59:49 Political uncertainty: France, Japan & the UK
1:03:22 Long-term allocation: equities, bonds & gold
1:04:01 Outro

-

📌 Resources
Stephen Roberts:
◽️ Orgueil Capital: https://www.orgueilcapital.com/our-story

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn:  https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram:  https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter):  https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter:  https://personable.substack.com/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram:  https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn:  https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up):  https://thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising:  https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing involves risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results.

Support the show

Episode 100: Losing My Mum To Cancer, Building The Next Big Podcast, and My Life's Mission08 Oct 202500:52:10

Send us a text

Thank you to everyone who has helped me reach this point. I don’t take your support for granted. Every like, comment and subscription genuinely means the world to me.

I feel honoured that 100 episodes coincides with reaching 1,000 subscribers, and I’m excited to keep building from here.

In this episode, I reflect on the past three years of Personable, the lessons and growth along the way, and what’s next for me and the podcast. I’ll also be focusing on strengthening the show’s narrative and building a closer community for core listeners.

-

Harvey Bracken-Smith marks a major milestone: 100 episodes of Personable. Instead of hosting a guest, Harvey turns the mic on himself for a deeply personal, unscripted reflection on the journey so far: from the podcast’s origins at a music festival to its growth into a global platform helping listeners become the best they can be.

In this special episode, Harvey shares the story behind Personable, the lessons learned across 100 conversations with the world’s best, and the personal experiences: including the loss of his mother, Louise, that shaped his drive, discipline, and mission to spread love, learning, and ambition into the world.

In this episode, Harvey discusses:
◽️ The origins of Personable: from a sleepless night at a music festival to a global platform
◽️ Grief, resilience, and how loss shaped his mission
◽️ Lessons from 100 episodes: consistency, courage, and community
◽️ The importance of love, discipline, and applied knowledge
◽️ Goals for the future: building community, growth, and purpose
◽️ What’s next: evolving Personable into a global movement

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro: Harvey welcomes listeners to episode 100  
06:10 Learning his mum’s diagnosis and the shock that followed  
08:45 Processing grief and pushing forward instead of pausing  
10:55 August 12 2022: the idea for Personable is born  
19:55 Hitting milestones: 100 episodes & 1000 subscribers  
23:20 Why passion matters more than fame or money  
27:05 The odds of success and why love keeps you going  
30:30 Learning from 100 guests — the value of curiosity  
41:00 Finding purpose through loss and faith  
45:10 Choosing your hard: growth through struggle  
48:00 Life lessons, legacy, and what’s next for the podcast  
50:10 Final message — “Just try.”  
51:45 Closing thanks & sign-off

-

📌 Resources
Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): https://thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023. 

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing involves risks,

Support the show

Personable Markets: French PM Resigns (LIVE REACTION!), EA Sports Crazy Buyout & LSE M&A ($250M)!06 Oct 202501:20:03

Send us a text

Harvey Bracken-Smith welcomes Luke Sloman back to Personable. Luke is a third-year Business & Management student at the University of Exeter, currently on year abroad at the University of Sydney. He grew up in Tokyo until age 13 before moving to the UK for boarding school. His academic focus is on finance-related modules that complement his broader Business & Management studies. This is Luke’s 3rd time on Personable.

In this episode Luke and Harvey unpack the week’s biggest market stories - from the record-breaking EA leveraged buyout to Tesla deliveries, Pfizer policy deals, the UK IPO slump, US fiscal risks and political volatility in France and Japan. Luke brings a student’s curiosity and a global perspective (Tokyo → UK → Sydney) to market structure, sovereign wealth flows, and what everyday investors should watch.

In this episode Luke Sloman discusses:
◽️ EA’s $55bn LBO — structure, sovereign wealth involvement, cultural impact
◽️ Saudi sports/“sports-washing” and private equity / Four Seasons style deals
◽️ Tesla Q3 deliveries, EV tax credits, and the longer-term robot/AI narrative
◽️ Pfizer + Trump Rx: pharma, tariffs, and on-shoring manufacturing
◽️ UK IPO & M&A slump — causes, consequences, and what would fix it

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:57 Luke returns — background and why he’s back on the show
02:06 EA $55bn LBO — who’s involved and deal anatomy
03:22 Cultural impact: EA Sports, FIFA, and player/community effects
07:21 Sovereign investors & the “fronted” private equity model (Four Seasons analogy)
11:13 Tesla Q3 surprise, US $7,500 EV credit, and the humanoid/robot thesis
22:43 Pfizer + Trump Rx deal: tariffs, manufacturing investment, and consumer impact
30:44 UK IPO & M&A slump — data, causes, and policy implications
37:30 Real-time markets: X, Caoshi, and how instant feedback changes behaviour
42:30 Eurozone & France — political instability, budget fights, and market moves
51:28 US debt downgrade, debt servicing vs defence spending, and shutdown costs
1:03:14 Breaking: French PM resignation — market reaction and political context
1:14:41 Japan outlook — likely next PM and market implications
1:18:49 Outro

📌 Resources
Luke Sloman:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-sloman-87a6742a9/?originalSubdomain=uk

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): https://thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023. 

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing involves risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results.

Support the show

You Must Think In Generations, Not Days, To Be Successful! Raj Setty (Owner Of Setty & Associates)06 Oct 202501:08:03

Send us a text

Raj Setty, Owner of Setty & Associates and CEO of Cyclops, joins Personable. From graduating UC Davis in mechanical engineering to teaching physics in the Peace Corps (Namibia), to scaling a family-run MEP engineering firm from a lifestyle business into a national practice - Raj brings a rare blend of field experience, systems thinking, and product-led engineering. He’s built high-performance engineering teams, led complex federal and institutional projects, and created Cyclops, a digital-twin platform that aggregates building data to enable AI-driven operations.

In this episode Raj explains how boots-on-the-ground engineering informs product design, why engineers must learn to speak to humans, and how digital twins will transform facility operations. He walks through Peace Corps lessons, construction and commissioning stories, building and scaling a family firm, and the pragmatic near-term role AI plays in buildings

In this episode Raj Setty discusses:
◽️ Peace Corps teaching in Namibia: perspective, simplicity, budgeting
◽️ Early career: construction, overseas projects, power plants
◽️ Family business: joining, scaling, and preserving legacy
◽️ Running a full-service MEP firm: federal, institutional, campus work
◽️ Commissioning and hands-on problem solving (boots on the ground)

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro / Welcome to Personable
00:46 Career start, UC Davis and early market context
02:54 Peace Corps in Namibia: teaching, living on $200/month
05:56 Returning home: transition, priorities, and travel
08:32 Construction and on-site engineering experiences
11:13 Overseas projects: power plant, fiber, and manufacturing lessons
13:38 Joining family company: size, tradeoffs, and ambitions
16:29 Running & scaling Setty & Associates (people, offices)
19:54 Buildings as the major energy sector; resilience lessons
24:07 Differentiation, pricing pressures, and commoditization
26:10 Founding Cyclops (2017): motivation and evolution
27:32 Digital twin concept and AI’s “middle” role
31:48 Data ontology, sources, and who actually owns building data
35:08 Cyclops demo walkthrough: boiler troubleshooting use case
40:38 Commercial model: SaaS hosting + services, pilots, parts commerce
47:11 Leadership: craftsmanship, decision budgets, and legacy thinking
53:45 Day-to-day: what Raj values - people, tennis, community
1:04:56 Key takeaway: get good at something

📌 Resources
Raj Setty:
◽️ https://www.linkedin.com/in/raj-setty-36a7033/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): https://thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023. 

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consul

Support the show

David Esposito (CEO ONL Therapeutics): Why Big Pharma MUST Take Big Risks For A Healthy Society!02 Oct 202501:09:03

Send us a text

David Esposito, President & CEO of ONL Therapeutics, joins Personable. From graduating West Point with a BS in Civil Engineering, to leading an infantry platoon in combat with the 101st Airborne Division, David brings a unique perspective from military service to biotech leadership.

With experience spanning pharma sales at Merck, diagnostics leadership, and biotech exits (Armune BioScience to Exact Sciences, Phadia to Thermo Fisher), David has navigated high-stakes environments from battlefields to boardrooms. 

In this episode, David Esposito discusses:
◽️ Military service: calling to serve, leadership in combat, and teamwork lessons
◽️ Transition to civilian life: from infantry to pharma sales and biotech
◽️ Discipline vs. motivation: building endurance in sports, military, and business
◽️ Pharma career path: consistency, exits, and navigating big vs. early-stage companies
◽️ Biotech innovation: pricing, risk, trials, and balancing science with business

00:00 Intro
00:42 Why David joined the Army: calling to serve
01:57 Rallying cries for causes greater than self
03:44 Sports camaraderie parallels military teamwork
05:23 Leadership growth in sports, high-stakes army roles
06:37 Navigating debates, execution in high-pressure environments
08:26 Australia: respect, rules, transitioning to civilian life
10:03 From team environments to solo sales rep
12:52 Military discipline drives corporate hustle, endurance
14:50 Consistency over flash: path to senior roles
16:27 Career journey: Merck sales to biotech CEO
18:55 No overnight successes: grinding, practical realities
19:24 Long-form podcasts reveal successful people’s essence
22:45 Diverse experiences, personal trade-offs in careers
25:24 Pharma marketing, pricing, and staying grounded
28:24 Rewarding innovation: risk capital, vision value
28:54 Boots on the ground: frontline insights matter
30:10 Risk, incentives: why innovation needs rewards
37:32 Holistic health: diet, sleep, nuanced treatments
40:02 Pharma misconceptions: innovation improves lives despite failures
44:02 Building biotech: problem-solving, teams, capital
47:11 Success commonalities: relationships, honesty, learning
50:06 ONL Therapeutics: vision protection in retinal diseases
53:45 Managing risk: lean teams, transparency, dilution
1:05:57 Key takeaway: purposeful innovation moves society forward

📌 Resources
David Esposito:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidesposito2/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): https://thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023. 


This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always c

Support the show

LIVE REACTION: Hitting 1,000 Subscribers on YouTube!! 30 Sep 202500:08:02

Send us a text

I am beyond excited to announce that Personable has hit 1,000 subscribers!!!

Thank you to everyone that has supported me up to this point.

I am grateful to have been given the platform to create the best conversations with the best guests on the planet to enable my listeners to become the best they can be 

Onwards & Upwards

Subscribe to join the journey

Harvey Bracken-Smith
Host of Personable

📌 Resources
Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn:  https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram:  https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter):  https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter:  https://personable.substack.com/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram:  https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn:  https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok:  https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up):  https://thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising:  https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing involves risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results.

Support the show

Personable Markets: Louis-Vincent Gave on Trump-Xi Meet, ChatGPT v DeepSeek, China-India-Russia Deal29 Sep 202501:19:17

Send us a text

Louis-Vincent Gave, CEO & Co-Founder of Gavekal, returns to Personable as a two-time guest. From graduating Duke University with a BA in Economics, History & Chinese, to studying Mandarin at Nanjing University, Louis brings a unique global perspective. He’s advised institutions, funds, and governments for decades - and in this episode, he dissects markets, AI, energy, and the U.S.-China dynamic with refreshing clarity.

With experience spanning macro research, portfolio strategy, and global policy insights, Louis has built Gavekal into one of the world’s most respected independent research firms. Known for sharp takes on U.S.-China relations, the future of AI, and structural shifts in energy, Louis shares why the U.S. still holds “pocket aces,” why investors should be watching China-India-Russia integration, and why we may be entering a 20-year bond bear market. In this episode, he lays out the risks, opportunities, and new frameworks for investors navigating 2025 and beyond.

In this episode, Louis-Vincent Gave discusses:
◽️ The evolving U.S.-China relationship, tariffs, and rare earths
◽️ AI: bubble or paradigm shift? U.S. closed vs. China’s open models
◽️ Energy economics: why coal may fuel America’s AI race
◽️ The Magnificent Seven, Nvidia, and overvaluation risks
◽️ Global macro trends: China-India-Russia integration vs. U.S. dominance

00:00 Intro
00:32 Meeting Louis-Vincent Gave: Gavekal & background
02:11 U.S.-China relations since 2018 semiconductor embargo
05:13 U.S. advantages vs. China’s rapid rise
09:19 Global trade trends: shifting toward the Global South
13:40 Western media narratives: “imploding or taking over” China
18:00 TikTok deal, Taiwan, tariffs & negotiations
21:53 AI: bubbles, Nvidia, DeepSeek & open vs. closed models
29:10 Employment disruption & the future of work
38:35 Energy: U.S. vs. China, renewables, coal & AI power needs
46:17 Inflation, social media, data & retail markets
49:28 Investment strategies: AI bets vs. global opportunities
53:10 Nvidia’s 75% corrections & systemic risk
56:18 Macro trends: U.S. vs. China-India-Russia integration
1:01:12 Gold, crypto & energy as diversification tools
1:09:59 Public vs. private markets for investors
1:13:20 Social media, retail investing & “gamifying” markets
1:16:36 Bonds, pensions & a 20-year bear market
1:18:11 Outro

📌 Resources
Louis-Vincent Gave:
◽️ X: https://x.com/gave_vincent
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-vincent-gave-6260241 
◽️ Gavekal: https://research.gavekal.com/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing invol

Support the show

AmplifyME's Anthony Cheung: How to Break into Finance (From State School to Wall Street)26 Dec 202500:42:40

Send us a text

Anthony Cheung shares an honest account of his journey from a state school to working with some of the world’s largest hedge funds, and why his mission today is focused on access, education, and demystifying finance.

Anthony is Chief Content and Culture Officer at AmplifyME and former Head of Markets Analysis at Newsquawk. In this conversation, he reflects on social mobility, imposter syndrome, resilience, and how skills from elite sport translate directly into success in trading and high pressure careers.

This episode is a practical guide for students and early professionals who want to break into finance, build real credibility, and focus on what actually matters beyond prestige and perception.

He explains:
◽️ How a working class upbringing shaped his mindset and ambition
◽️ Why access to opportunity matters more than raw talent
◽️ Lessons from elite youth basketball that apply to trading and life
◽️ The real skills banks look for beyond grades and technical knowledge
◽️ How AmplifyME helps level the playing field for students globally

00:00 Introduction and Anthony’s background
01:34 From state school to Wall Street
05:57 Why giving back became his mission
10:59 Sport, discipline, and transferable skills
17:35 The founding story of Amplify.me
25:14 Becoming a public voice in finance
33:17 How students should prepare for finance careers
38:32 Would he do it all again
39:16 The questions people should ask more often
40:10 One lesson to take away

Anthony Cheung: 
◽️ Website: https://amplifyme.com/bio-anthony-cheung
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonycheung10/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/
◽️ Website: https://www.personable.media/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ Fundraising: https://www.loulouracefoundation.org/donate

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023. 

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing involves risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results.

Support the show

James Frost (Founder of Buzz): How to get 38,000 downloads in 50 days27 Sep 202501:15:37

Send us a text

James Frost, creative strategist and director, returns to Personable as a two-time guest. From photographing for Complex and Hypebeast to relaunching his own app Buzz - which hit 30,000 downloads in 50 days and 2.6 million social impressions - James is shaping the future of culture at the intersection of fashion, music, and tech.

With experience across media, brand campaigns for Adidas and Jägermeister, and mentoring 1,700+ young creatives worldwide, James blends creativity with sharp digital strategy. He’s grown TikTok accounts past 4 million views, Instagram projects past 1 million impressions, and even scaled a client from 250 to 13K followers in eight weeks. In this episode, James shares his social media blueprint for 2025, why community beats algorithms, and how to build something that people want to talk about.

In this episode, James Frost discusses:
◽️ Social media hacks for 2025: hooks, algorithms & repeatable content
◽️ Building Buzz from guerrilla marketing to App Store top charts
◽️ Lessons from working with Complex, Hypebeast, Wonderland, and Clash
◽️ Mentorship: helping 1,700+ creatives break into the industry
◽️ Defining success, happiness, and legacy at 23

00:00 Intro
00:32 Meeting James Frost: From Creative Director to Entrepreneur
02:11 What is Buzz and Why Relaunch It?
04:12 App Store Strategy: 30K Downloads in 50 Days
06:39 Working with Developers & the Role of AI
08:36 Funding Yourself Without Investors
11:47 Breaking Into the Creative Industry
12:57 Mentorship: 27 Cohorts, 1700+ Students
16:10 Outreach & Networking Hacks
19:40 Pressure to Take a Traditional Path?
21:37 Reverse Engineering Goals
23:16 Social Media Blueprint: Hooks, Editing & Retention
29:37 Case Study: Turning Events Into Viral TikToks
32:49 Community Impact: Opening Doors for Others
38:40 Evergreen vs. Expiring Content
42:56 Editing Workflow: From Idea to TikTok in 20 Minutes
50:28 Overcoming Fear of Filming in Public
53:35 Scaling Content Production Efficiently
59:31 Camera Presence & Authentic Charisma
1:01:22 Building Buzz as a Brand, Not Just a Tech Tool
1:05:21 Monetization: Placements & Partnerships
1:07:27 Legacy: Tech x Culture at Scale
1:08:49 What’s Next: Expanding Beyond London
1:11:22 One Takeaway for Creators

 📌 Resources
James Frost:
◽️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesfrost02/?hl=en
◽️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shotbyjames
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-frost-9251851a2/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing involves risks, and past performance is not in

Support the show

Gibson Dunn Law Partner Dr Markus Nauheim on the Importance of Discipline, Integrity & Visibility25 Sep 202501:04:18

Send us a text

Dr Markus Nauheim, a partner at Gibson Dunn’s Munich office, shares his journey from a small-town German student to a globally recognized corporate lawyer advising giants like Mercedes-Benz and KKR. 

Dr Markus Nauheim has dual qualifications in New York and German law, a doctorate from Mainz, and an LL.M. from Duke, Markus blends discipline, integrity, and an entrepreneurial mindset to navigate high-stakes M&A and compliance challenges. In this episode, he reveals how his basketball background fuels resilience, why client trust is paramount, and how thought leadership builds a standout legal career.

In this episode, Markus Nauheim discusses:
◽️ Finding purpose in law through responsibility
◽️ Global perspective from studying worldwide
◽️ Discipline via incremental career goals
◽️ Resilience from competitive sports
◽️ Balancing intense work with self-care

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:32 Meeting Markus Nauheim: Background and Career
01:05 Why Law: Choosing a Purposeful Career
03:19 Global Perspective: Studying in Germany, Hong Kong, Duke
06:22 Entrepreneurial Mindset in Law
06:59 Discipline: Staying Motivated in Law School
10:58 Specializing: Pursuing Media Law Doctorate
12:34 From Junior Lawyer to Partner
13:01 Sports Background: Building Resilience
18:43 Work-Life Balance: Avoiding Burnout
19:22 Client Relationships: Earning and Keeping Trust
21:16 Efficiency: The 80-20 Rule in Law
23:27 Perfection: Delivering Flawless Work
25:33 Teamwork: Spartans vs. Persians in Deals
26:36 Parallels Between Law and Finance
27:38 Importance of Relationships Over Technology
30:49 AI’s Role: Enhancing, Not Replacing, Humans
32:07 Becoming a Great Lawyer: Key Traits
40:28 Integrity: Saying No to Unethical Demands
41:37 Networking: Acquiring High-Profile Clients
44:37 Thought Leadership: Building Visibility
46:20 High-Pressure Moments: Staying Focused
50:46 Corporate vs. Personal Legal Challenges
51:24 Legal Advice for Non-Lawyers
54:45 Mentoring: Coaching Young Athletes
56:31 Legacy: Making a Community Impact
57:21 Future Goals: Teaching and Community Projects
58:46 Balancing Law with Personal Life
1:01:22 Healthy Longevity: Creating a Blue Zone
1:01:44 Key Takeaway: Align Career with Self
1:04:15 Outro

-

📌 Resources
Dr Markus Nauheim:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mnauheim 
◽️ Gibson Dunn: https://www.gibsondunn.com/lawyer/nauheim-markus/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing involves risks, and past performance is not indicative of future resul

Support the show

Personable Markets: Fed Cuts Rates, Apple & Oracle Surge, Tiktok Deal, Slowing Labour market (AI?!)22 Sep 202501:06:09

Send us a text

This is the 4th episode of Personable markets in which I aim to speak to a hedgefund manager, VC or Investment Banker every week on real world market events. In this episode I speak to...

Luke Sloman who is a third-year Business and Management student at the University of Exeter, currently spending his year abroad at the University of Sydney. Luke grew up in Tokyo until the age of 13 before moving to the UK for boarding school. His academic interests focus on finance-related modules, which complement his broader studies in Business and Management.

In the episode, Luke reveals:
◽️ Fed's 25 bps cut targets labor market slowdown.
◽️ AI displaces junior jobs but sparks new opportunities.
◽️ Nvidia-Intel $5B deal boosts AI chip production.
◽️ Apple's cult-like ecosystem drives loyalty, not just innovation.
◽️ Oracle’s cloud revenue surges 28% from AI demand.

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:30 Luke’s Academic Focus and Sydney Experience
00:44 Fed Rate Cuts Overview
01:18 Luke’s Take on 25 bps Reduction
03:00 Equities Boost from Lower Rates
03:32 Market Expectations and Fed-Trump Dynamics
04:08 UK Rate Cuts as US Precedent
05:15 Yield Curve Sensitivity to Inflation Expectations
08:20 H1B Visa Cost Hike to $100k
09:56 Payroll Slowdown: 22,000 Jobs in August
10:30 AI Disrupting Junior-Level Roles
11:15 Historical Tech-Driven Job Creation
12:00 Adapting Skills for AI-Driven Economy
14:35 AI’s Initial Job Displacement Effects
15:20 Ethical AI Use in Schools
16:00 Social Media’s Rise as a Career
17:32 Education’s Shift to AI Integration
19:10 Football’s Professionalization as Historical Parallel
20:00 Critical Thinking in AI-Dominated Future
21:30 Initiative and Human Element in AI Era
24:15 Chinese Restrictions on Nvidia Chips
25:30 Nvidia-Intel $5B AI Collaboration
31:51 Apple’s iPhone Innovation Stagnation
34:00 iPhone 17 Pre-Orders Up 19% in India
39:15 Apple’s Seamless Product Integration
41:00 Oracle’s $877B Market Cap Growth
48:00 US Ownership Push for TikTok Algorithm
49:46 Oracle’s Cloud Demand from AI Players
54:27 Larry Ellison’s Entertainment Empire Expansion
56:00 Quarterly vs. Semi-Annual Earnings Debate
59:27 Crypto Rally and Tariff Escalations
1:01:10 Trump’s Influence on Economic Policy Narratives
1:02:00 Importance of Nuanced Investment Analysis
1:02:42 Outro and Final Takeaways

-

📌 Resources
Luke Sloman:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-sloman-87a6742a9 

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making inv

Support the show

Singer Hunter Black: Behind the Scenes of The Voice Australia & Going All-In on His Music Dream19 Sep 202500:55:00

Send us a text

Hunter Black shares his serendipitous rise on The Voice Australia, from a surprise audition to battling for Ronan Keating's team, while pursuing his passion for songwriting and live performances across Sydney's music scene.

Hunter is a Sydney-based musician completing a Bachelor of Media and Communication at Macquarie University, with a Diploma in Music Production from SAE. His influences blend soul from Stevie Wonder and progressive pop from Supertramp into original storytelling songs, performed solo or with his band Lantana. In 2025, he captivated national audiences on The Voice Australia Season 14, turning his bar gigs into a launchpad for a full-time music career.

In this episode, Hunter Black discusses: 
◽️ Serendipitous audition unlocked his Voice journey 
◽️ Behind-the-scenes production revealed TV's scale 
◽️ Nerves and song tweaks fueled performance breakthroughs 
◽️ Coaches like Ronan provided heartfelt guidance 
◽️ Media pitfalls taught emotional resilience in fame

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:32 Meeting Hunter Black: Background and The Voice Australia
01:10 Hunter’s Voice Experience: Blind Audition and Battle Round
02:43 Audition Process: How Hunter Got on The Voice
05:30 Behind the Scenes: Producer Influence and Storytelling
06:59 Production Scale: Size and Complexity of The Voice
08:28 Nerves and Emotions: Performing on a National Stage
09:42 Song Selection: Adapting for the 90-Second Format
11:41 Performance Dynamics: Judges Turning Chairs
12:51 Coach Interaction: Role and Impact of Mentors
15:11 Competitiveness: Balancing Inner Drive and Public Image
17:15 Media Training: Navigating Interviews and Public Perception
21:08 Mindset: Focusing on Personal Best
22:35 Misconceptions: Media Manipulation and Public Perception
26:04 Podcast Format: Value of Unfiltered Conversations
27:47 TikTokification: Impact of Short-Form Media on Perception
35:35 Applying Advice: Staying Present in Music and Media
37:12 Post-Voice Plans: Maintaining Momentum
39:32 Success in Music: Building a Sustainable Career
40:58 Getting Signed: Role of Social Media and Connections
43:41 Music as Entrepreneurship: Building an Audience
46:43 Networking: Importance of Industry Connections
48:52 Legacy: Creating Timeless Music and Authenticity
50:35 Future Goals: Songwriting and Industry Success
52:09 Social Media Strategy: Leveraging The Voice Exposure
53:14 Key Takeaway: Blocking Out Noise and Staying True
54:00 Outro

-

📌 Resources
Hunter Black:
◽️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hunterblack.music/?hl=en

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a quali

Support the show

Lihong Wang (Y Combinator Funded): How To Break Into Quant Trading, Freeport’s USP & DeFi Staking16 Sep 202501:08:51

Send us a text

Lihong Wang details his progression from internships at Jane Street and Akuna Capital to his former full time role at IMC Trading, with plans to innovate in DeFi through his startup Freeport backed by  Y Combinator. 

Lihong is a Duke University graduate with a background in mathematics and statistics. Lihong progressed from analyzing volatility decay at Jane Street to managing semi-systematic options books at IMC Trading. Lihong developed Freeport to simplify DeFi investing for self-custody users. 

In this episode, Lihong Wang discusses:
◽️ Overcoming quant entry challenges shaped his career
◽️ Mastering trading styles enhanced market adaptability
◽️ Transitioning to entrepreneurship drove Freeport’s creation
◽️ AI’s role boosted trading research efficiency
◽️ Staking yields highlight DeFi’s potential for accessibility

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:32 Quant interest: Math roots to Duke exposure
02:04 GameStop experience: Early retail trading
03:36 Market efficiency: Retail vs. quant perspectives
07:38 Quant compensation: Options and AI trends
09:08 Retail investing: Long-term vs. day trading
11:30 Jane Street culture: Secrecy and operations
13:00 IMC vs. Jane Street: Work dynamics
14:13 AI’s trading impact: Automation and signals
15:21 Leaving quant: Seeking fulfillment
17:51 Freeport concept: DeFi simplification
21:16 Startup timing: Co-founder alignment
24:44 Staking mechanics: Proof-of-stake details
27:54 Ethereum staking: Pool risks and rewards
30:01 Staking incentives: Network validation
31:50 Lending vs. staking: Platform differences
33:00 Centralized cuts: Coinbase’s approach
36:17 YC backing: Trust-building in DeFi
39:00 Team strength: Finance and tech synergy
40:38 Regulatory window: Startup opportunity
42:25 Early users: Test phase progress
43:55 Crypto thesis: Long-term potential
46:44 Blockchain rails: Future finance
48:17 Investment advice: Top tokens
49:19 Target users: Retail and institutions
50:44 Safety measures: Protocol due diligence
53:48 Crypto bans: Technological resilience
55:14 Growth challenge: Product completion
57:29 Competitive edge: User retention
59:26 Learning crypto: Exchange resources
1:01:28 Portfolio strategy: Big vs. small tokens
1:02:15 Untapped topic: DeFi trading edges
1:04:12 Liquidity provision: Retail vaults
1:05:15 Legacy goal: Impactful innovation
1:06:38 Next steps: Launch and growth
1:07:39 Outro

-

📌 Resources
Lihong Wang:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lihong062/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making

Support the show

Personable Markets: US Tariffs, FED Independence & Rate Cuts, UK Economy Concerns | Lia Forcina15 Sep 202501:03:37

Send us a text

This is the 3rd episode of Personable markets in which I aim to speak to a hedgefund manager, VC or Investment Banker every week on real world market events. In this episode I speak to...

Lia Forcina who is a partner and portfolio manager at LGR Capital in London. She previously held roles at BlueCrest Capital, SAC Capital (now Point72), and Morgan Stanley. Lia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Rome Tor Vergata (110/110 cum laude) and a Master’s degree in Statistics and Econometrics from Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore. 

In this episode, Lia reveals:
◽️ The surprising impact of tariffs on global inflation
◽️ Why Federal Reserve independence faces growing scrutiny
◽️ Her secret to navigating UK’s economic challenges
◽️ The hidden struggles of Europe’s regulatory environment
◽️ The power of US markets and corporate relocations

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:44 Tariffs and Inflation Concerns
01:44 Tariff Legal Challenges, Outcomes
02:07 Companies Absorbing Tariff Costs
04:42 Tariffs’ Net Economic Impact
05:15 Strategic Production Shift from China
07:28 Europe’s Business Relocation Losses
09:02 UK Economic Decline, Budget Risks
09:47 UK Autumn Budget Implications
11:16 New UK Worker Rights Laws
12:35 Costly Employment Regulations
14:42 UK Investment Opportunities, Risks
15:04 Civil Service as Safe Sector
15:49 S&P 500 Overvaluation Debate
17:17 US Economic Resilience Advantage
17:32 UK Regulations Stifling Growth
19:31 EV and Grid Infrastructure Issues
20:47 Welfare’s Work Disincentive Problem
21:25 France’s Political, Economic Instability
22:11 France’s Welfare and Productivity Crisis
25:21 Crisis-Driven Economic Reforms
30:15 Elon Musk’s Unique Compensation
30:42 Banks Embracing Crypto, Gold
32:06 Trading Revenue Outpacing M&A
34:15 Private Firms’ Systemic Importance
34:45 Strong European M&A Activity
38:20 Undervalued Financial Sector Opportunities
40:49 AI Enhancing Finance Productivity
44:58 Creativity Over Technical Skills
45:59 Human Nuance in AI Era
47:14 Broader Education for Success
49:12 AI Investment Overspending Risks
51:54 Defense Stocks’ Long-Term Growth
53:04 Europe’s Rising Defense Spending
53:23 Fed-Government Relationship Tensions
53:54 Trump’s Fed Influence Overhyped
57:27 Filtering Media Noise Effectively
59:27 Banks’ Economic Leverage Risks
1:02:49 Outro

-

📌 Resources
Lia Forcina
◽️ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lia-forcina-17352459 

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualifie

Support the show

Deanna Filippo (Creative Expert) for Allure, Victoria’s Secret, Blue Lagoon, David Stesner ArtHouse!13 Sep 202501:12:00

Send us a text

Deanna Filippo, a visionary creative director, shares her journey from designing for Allure and Victoria’s Secret to pioneering iconic beauty visuals and building a luxury lifestyle brand.

Deanna Filippo, a pioneering creative director, has carved a bold path in design, evolving from crafting visuals for Allure and CosmoGirl to inventing tactile "blobs and smears" inspired by beauty, texture, and emotion. Her work, shaping brands like Victoria’s Secret, blends art and desire. In this episode, Filippo shares overcoming early struggles, mastering digital design, and valuing collaboration. She discusses balancing creativity with profit, launching a luxury lifestyle brand with makeup bags and decor, making beauty vibrant and accessible.

Deanna Filippo Discusses: 
◽️ Digital design transformed her creative process 
◽️ Evoking emotion elevates beauty visuals 
◽️ "Blobs and smears" reflect texture and desire 
◽️ Luxury brand blends exclusivity with accessibility 
◽️ Collaboration fueled success at Allure, beyond

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:45 Why design? Deanna’s early inspirations
01:20 Sketching beauty products in high school
03:10 Breaking into magazines during recession
04:25 Early hustle: 80-hour Allure weeks
06:50 Collaboration drives creative success
08:40 First Allure role: Key lessons
10:55 Navigating high-pressure magazine demands
12:35 Thriving in competitive design world
14:15 From paste-ups to digital design
16:40 Evoking emotion in beauty visuals
19:25 Building consumer trust through design
22:10 What makes exceptional designers
24:45 Misconceptions about Deanna’s perfectionism
27:20 Perfectionism as a creative hurdle
30:05 Networking with top beauty brands
33:15 Emotional impact of design work
36:30 “Blobs and smears”: Beauty innovation
39:50 Vibrant visuals spark consumer desire
42:25 Dynamics of client-designer relationships
45:40 Victoria’s Secret, CosmoGirl brand work
48:55 Launching luxury lifestyle brand
51:20 Makeup bags sell out rapidly
54:35 Scaling luxury with quality control
57:50 Exclusivity shapes brand pricing
1:00:45 Legacy as designer and entrepreneur
1:03:10 Future products: Bags, decor expansion
1:06:25 Takeaway: Risk-taking fuels success
1:09:15 Design and business insights shared
1:11:30 Outro

📌 Resources
Deanna Filippo:
◽️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deanna.filippo/
◽️ Website: https://deannafilippo.com/
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanna-filippo-309a9168 
◽️ Home Decor Brand: https://davidstesnerarthouse.com/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financia

Support the show

Artist David Stesner: Collaborating with Lamborghini, Selling to Royal families & Butterfly Project11 Sep 202501:06:59

Send us a text

David Stesner, a renowned photographer and artist, shares his journey from assisting legendary photographers to creating his iconic butterfly collection and building a luxury home decor brand.

David Stesner, a classically trained artist, has carved a unique path in the art world, transitioning from assisting iconic photographers like Albert Watson to creating his own globally recognized work, including his deeply personal butterfly collection inspired by life, loss, and transformation. His art, featured in prestigious galleries like the St Regis Hotel in Doha and collected by royal families, reflects a blend of fashion, nature, and emotional depth. In this episode, Stesner discusses the challenges of breaking into the competitive photography industry, the evolution from analog to digital, and the importance of networking and social media in amplifying his reach. He also shares how he balances passion and profit, culminating in the creation of David Stesner Art House, a luxury brand applying his art to home decor, making it accessible to a wider audience while maintaining exclusivity.

David Stesner’s Discusses:
◽️ Digital photography revolutionized his creative process
◽️ Capturing personality enhances portrait photography
◽️ Butterfly collection reflects life and loss
◽️ Luxury brand balances exclusivity and accessibility
◽️ Social media connected art with elites

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:46 Why art? David’s early influences
01:36 From childhood interest to professional art
04:09 Balancing passion and profit early
09:15 Assisting legendary photographers: Lessons learned
15:06 Analog vs. digital photography shift
21:10 Building rapport for emotional portraits
23:38 What separates great photographers
26:50 Misconceptions about David’s on-set demeanor
30:41 Networking for elite galleries, collectors
33:46 Emotional weight of selling art
39:49 Balancing interpretation in art creation
43:39 Artist-collector relationship dynamics
45:38 Lamborghini collaboration for luxury show
50:04 Launching David Stesner Art House
59:19 Exclusivity’s role in pricing strategy
1:02:07 David’s legacy as artist, philanthropist
1:02:47 Future exhibits and brand scaling
1:03:53 Takeaway: Passion with a backup
1:04:56 Art, business, and branding insights
1:06:41 Outro

📌 Resources

David Stesner:
◽️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidstesner/?hl=en
◽️ Website: https://www.davidstesner.com/
◽️ Home Decor Brand: https://davidstesnerarthouse.com/
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-stesner-arthouse-b19a1710 

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified fin

Support the show

Parenting Expert (Meg Faure): Screens as Toxic as smoking?! 25% women depressed post childbirth!10 Sep 202501:10:15

Send us a text

The No 1 Parenting Expert in South Africa Meg Faure shares her journey empowering parents, blending neuroscience, and fostering curiosity.

Meg Faure, an occupational therapist and serial entrepreneur, is the co-author of eight bestselling parenting books, including Baby Sense. Raised in South Africa, she studied at the University of Cape Town and specialized in New York, focusing on neuroscience and early childhood development. She founded Baby Sense, Play Sense, Sense-IT, and Parent Sense, impacting millions globally. Now scaling her Parent Sense app, Meg supports parents in the critical first 1,000 days, driven by compassion and science.

Meg Faure discusses:
◽️ Shaping South Africa’s parenting landscape
◽️ Tackling bold entrepreneurial challenges
◽️ Transforming parenting with neuroscience insights
◽️ Scaling Parent Sense to global impact
◽️ Fueling parental confidence through curiosity

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:50 South African roots and early passion
01:42 Love for babies and childhood calling
02:25 Neuroscience shaping parenting approach
03:37 Writing Baby Sense bestseller
04:59 Radio show sparks overnight success
06:05 Impact of Baby Sense seminars
07:09 Curiosity drives lifelong career
08:12 Parenting in an information overload
10:52 Finding trustworthy parenting voices
12:19 Navigating social media’s noise
14:33 Essential advice for new parents
16:42 Emotional connection as top priority
18:12 Gut microbiome’s role in health
20:17 Sensory experiences vs. toxic screens
25:34 Supporting neurodiverse kids’ success
27:28 Resilience through failure
29:00 Nature vs. nurture’s lifelong impact
31:43 Adverse childhood events explained
34:58 Self-regulation predicts future success
38:15 Overcoming adversity with resilience
42:30 Screens as harmful as smoking
46:49 Supporting postpartum mental health
48:19 Finding purpose post-parenting
50:54 Balancing work and motherhood
53:40 Dangers of tiger parenting
56:24 Free play fuels child creativity
59:57 Parent Sense app’s innovative design
1:02:33 Insurers fund app for scale
1:04:06 Pricing strategy for global reach
1:05:51 Reflecting on slower motherhood
1:07:17 Legacy of impacting millions
1:08:24 Scaling Parent Sense globally
1:09:10 Curiosity as a parenting superpower
1:10:13 Outro 

📌 Resources
Meg Faure:
◽️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megfaure.sense/
◽️ Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-faure/
◽️ Parent Sense LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/parent-sense/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advi

Support the show

7’0 Stanley Borden (UTSA, Duke MBB) on Social anxiety, NIL & going to NBA | ACC Champion, Final 409 Sep 202501:02:26

Send us a text

Stanley Borden shares his journey of overcoming social anxiety, navigating NIL, and chasing NBA aspirations.

Stanley Borden, a 7’0, 241-pound former walk-on for Duke’s men’s basketball team, is now a scholarship player at the University of Texas San Antonio. Born in New York and raised in Turkey with Turkish-Portuguese roots, he transitioned from tennis to basketball at 15, later starting for Portugal’s U20 national team. At Duke, he contributed to a 2022 Final Four, 2023 ACC Tournament win, 2024 Elite Eight, and 2025 Final Four, all while earning a computer science degree with minors in computational biology and English. Honored with the ACC Top Six for Service Award for organizing a 7.8km run for Turkey/Syria earthquake relief, Stanley now pursues an MBA at UTSA while aiming for a professional basketball career. In this episode, he opens up about battling social anxiety, leveraging NIL opportunities, and defining success beyond the court, guided by values of humility, empathy, and relentless initiative.

In this episode, Stanley Borden discusses:
◽️ Growing up in Turkey, Portugal influence
◽️ Handling social anxiety at 7’0
◽️ NIL’s impact on college basketball
◽️ Transferring to UTSA for playing time
◽️ Defining success, values, and purpose

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:50 Background and basketball beginnings
01:40 Height assumptions
03:43 Handling height-related questions
04:19 Social dynamics of being tall
04:43 Navigating perceptions in high school
06:30 Social anxiety and fame
07:23 Overcoming social anxiety
10:04 Confidence reflection
10:59 College loneliness and social media
11:32 Campus fame via Fizz app
12:40 Parasocial relationships and campus hate
17:33 Connecting with others despite fame
19:55 Basketball experience
20:51 Walking onto Duke’s team
23:05 Coach K’s involvement
25:47 Tryout experience and team acceptance
32:34 NBA aspirations
32:42 Team role and growth
34:21 Transferring for more playtime
35:55 Playing with Cooper Flagg, Jared McCain
36:26 Teammates’ personalities
39:10 Engaging with people, not ideas
41:21 Combating false narratives
42:26 Empathy for negative behavior
44:35 NIL’s impact on college sports
48:59 Reflecting on future regrets
50:04 Improving basketball skills
52:54 Balancing basketball and other pursuits
1:00:14 Being multifaceted
1:01:19 Closing reflections
1:02:24 Thanks and outro

📌 Resources
Stanley Borden 
◽️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stanleysborden/?hl=en
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanley-borden-4b8909224/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualif

Support the show

Job EXPERT Peter Wood on The Worst Job Market in 10 Years!! How to Build Online, Upskill & Find work24 Dec 202501:12:27

Send us a text

Founder and CEO of The Graduate Guide, Peter Wood returns to Personable to break down how graduate careers are changing, why traditional hiring is broken, and what it really takes to build ambition, confidence, and opportunity in a broken labour market.

Since first appearing on the podcast, Peter has scaled The Graduate Guide from a content driven community into a platform tackling the graduate skills gap head on, culminating in its acquisition by The Apprenticeship Group. His work sits at the intersection of education, startups, recruitment, and social mobility, with a clear mission to help people prove what they can do rather than where they come from.

In this conversation, Peter shares what he has learned about ambition, careers, community building, LinkedIn growth, venture capital, and why curiosity may be the most undervalued skill of the next decade.

He explains:
◽️ Why the graduate job market is fundamentally broken
◽️ How ambition gets lost and how to reignite it
◽️ What companies misunderstand about junior talent and AI
◽️ How The Graduate Guide evolved from content to acquisition
◽️ Why apprenticeships and upskilling are the future of work
◽️ How to use LinkedIn intentionally rather than chasing vanity metrics
◽️ What it really takes to stand out in a hyper competitive world

00:00 Returning to Personable and the Graduate Guide’s evolution
02:10 Solving the graduate career crisis
04:00 Why helping everyone is harder than it sounds
07:54 Building community instead of chasing brands
12:06 AI, skills gaps, and the future of junior roles
18:11 Apprenticeships, upskilling, and long term talent
22:20 Curiosity, boredom, and ambition
27:04 Social media, influence, and responsibility
29:26 Entering the VC and startup ecosystem
33:31 Outlasting competition and building momentum
37:56 What Europe needs to succeed in venture capital
40:12 Helping the average person unlock ambition
47:00 How LinkedIn actually works
53:42 Intentionality behind high performing content
1:02:38 Legacy, ambition, and long term purpose
1:09:44 One lesson to take away

Peter Wood:
◽️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petermwood_/?hl=en
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-m-wood/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/
◽️ Website: https://www.personable.media/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ Fundraising: https://www.loulouracefoundation.org/donate

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023. 

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing involves risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results.

Support the show

Personable Markets: Gold & Bitcoin Surge, Japan PM resigns, USA tariff reversal, UK fiscal shortfall08 Sep 202501:08:12

Send us a text

This is the 2nd episode of Personable markets in which I aim to speak to a hedgefund manager, VC or Investment Banker every week on real world market events. Unfortunately, this week the hedge fund manager I was supposed to speak to dropped out at the last minute. Fortunately, a good friend of mine was able to fill the gap to join me on this week’s Personable markets episode...

Luke Sloman who is a third-year Business and Management student at the University of Exeter, currently spending his year abroad at the University of Sydney. Luke grew up in Tokyo until the age of 13 before moving to the UK for boarding school. His academic interests focus on finance-related modules, which complement his broader studies in Business and Management.

In this episode, Luke Sloman reveals:
◽️ Why Japanese PMs frequently resign
◽️ US tariffs’ impact on global markets
◽️ UK’s looming fiscal shortfall crisis
◽️ Gold and Bitcoin as economic hedges
◽️ Retail investors’ growing market influence

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:33 Japan’s political instability
01:34 UK Deputy PM resignation
01:35 Autumn budget concerns
02:19 US Fed rate cut expectations
02:49 Japanese PM resignation trends
03:10 Liberal Democratic Party dominance
05:42 Ishiba’s resignation reasons
06:03 Nikkei 225 and S&P correlation
07:08 US tariffs hit Japanese economy
08:35 Japan’s trade diversification strategy
09:07 Global stock market performance
12:27 UK’s Labour approval drop
13:00 Post-COVID economic struggles
15:57 Migration as UK voter priority
16:25 Labour’s tax hike challenges
18:02 UK’s £50B fiscal shortfall
20:55 UK’s entrepreneurial mindset gap
23:24 Simon Squibb’s startup inspiration
24:30 Harry Stebbings’ VC influence
25:30 UK’s AI potential untapped
27:27 US vs. UK entrepreneurial culture
30:20 Trump’s tariff unconstitutionality ruling
34:09 Silicon Valley Bank collapse
37:22 US $40T debt concerns
38:46 Potential financial crisis looming
42:57 Retail investors’ limited participation
46:55 GameStop retail investor phenomenon
51:37 Citadel’s trading data advantage
53:43 Gold prices hit record highs
54:14 Bitcoin’s 10x growth explained
57:20 Gold as inflation hedge
1:00:12 Bitcoin’s government-backed irony
1:03:12 Department of Defense renamed War
1:05:03 War’s economic implications
1:07:29 Strong US market performance
1:08:00 Final thoughts and outlook
1:08:48 Outro

-

📌 Resources
Luke Sloman:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-sloman-87a6742a9 

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Alwa

Support the show

Actor Tim McInnerny's pursuit of excellence (Blackadder, Notting Hill, Gladiator 2, GOT, One Day)05 Sep 202501:00:16

Send us a text

Tim McInnerny shares his journey of mastering diverse roles and staying true to the craft of acting.

Tim McInnerny rose to prominence as a versatile actor, uniquely playing two leading roles in the iconic Blackadder series - Lord Percy Percy and Captain Darling - while building a career spanning theater, film, and television. From his early days in school plays to starring alongside legends like Vanessa Redgrave and Judi Dench, Tim has balanced comedy and drama, appearing in projects like Notting Hill, Game of Thrones, and Gladiator 2. A graduate of Oxford University, where he studied English Language and Literature, he honed his craft through the National Youth Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company, always prioritizing truth and authenticity in his performances. 

In this episode, Tim McInnerny discusses:
◽️ Discovering acting through a reluctant school play debut at 14
◽️ Balancing ambition with humility in a competitive industry
◽️ The importance of truth and collaboration in acting
◽️ Navigating the emotional depths of roles like Iago and Hamlet
◽️ Lessons from a 40-year career in theater, TV, and film

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:31 Tim shares school play start
02:09 Acting clicked for Tim early
04:36 Harvey contrasts modern acting motives
05:04 Harvey asks about role competition
05:24 Tim on theater, luck’s role
08:08 Tim’s first London play
09:19 Harvey cites passion-driven acting
11:23 Balancing uniqueness with director’s vision
12:19 Tim on collaboration, script’s role
15:29 Tim’s chameleon-like acting approach
16:20 Tim on accessing self for roles
18:36 Harvey references Game of Thrones
19:42 Tim on controlling role immersion
21:08 Harvey asks about disconnecting roles
23:21 Tim discusses playing Iago
25:24 Harvey relates to life balance
26:25 Tim praises Harvey’s self-awareness
27:01 Tim chose university over drama
29:42 Tim on Oxford theater opportunities
31:33 Harvey shares dyslexia, camera issues
33:02 Tim on Blackadder comedy
36:36 Tim defines humor as wit
38:04 Blackadder’s serious comedy process
40:38 Challenges with Shakespeare’s comedy
41:01 Humor from character truth
47:00 Harvey asks about inspirations
48:31 Tim on Redgrave, Dench, Holm
54:17 Harvey asks about legacy
54:38 Tim values kindness as legacy
55:35 Harvey asks about unasked questions
57:34 Acting as self-examination privilege
58:43 Harvey thanks Tim, recalls meeting
1:00:05 Harvey reflects on deep talk
1:00:11 Outro

📌 Resources
Tim McInnerny:
◽️ IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0570570/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a

Support the show

Legendary Scooter rider Will Judy on pursuing Greatness, 30,000+ Fans & Overcoming Fear05 Sep 202501:07:12

Send us a text

Will Judy, a former top scooter rider, shares his journey of building a 24,000-follower community and thriving as a data scientist.

Will Judy rose to prominence as a professional scooter rider, amassing over 24,000 Instagram followers through skill-driven video edits that garnered tens of thousands of views. He earned brand sponsorships for U.S. travel and signature skateboard parts in his name. Alongside his scootering career, he graduated magna cum laude from Loyola Marymount University with a degree in applied mathematics, earning Dean’s List and merit scholar honors. He now maintains a 4.0 GPA in a Master’s in Data Science at the University of Texas and works as a data scientist in marketing analytics. 

In this episode, Will Judy discusses:
◽️ How scootering built lifelong discipline
◽️ Growing a 24,000-follower community
◽️ Balancing passion with academic success
◽️ Lessons from overcoming social pressures
◽️ Transitioning to a data science career

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:32 Will explains why he started scootering
01:24 Growing up active in Seattle
02:02 What drove Will to excel
02:10 Joy of landing new tricks
02:32 Building friendships at skate parks
03:47 Scootering as a unique skill
06:07 Key life lessons from scootering
07:11 Gratitude from diverse friendships
08:46 Common misconceptions about scooter riders
09:15 Lack of corporate sponsorships
10:59 Will’s shift to community focus
12:50 Supportive parents enabled balance
14:08 Choosing college over full-time scootering
16:23 Describing high-stakes scootering jumps
16:27 Risks of advanced scootering moves
17:41 Finding unique spots for tricks
19:22 Parallels to career risk-taking
20:55 Incremental steps for skill mastery
21:48 Patience in achieving big goals
24:32 Embracing discomfort for personal growth
25:39 Benefits of sticking with passions
27:54 Handling negative comments online
32:55 Building a loyal fan base
35:25 Quality over quantity in relationships
37:35 Impacting kids’ life choices positively
42:51 Staying true to scootering roots
46:05 Pursuing music as a passion
51:24 Love for puzzles and problem-solving
53:51 Landing data science job serendipitously
57:10 Legacy in music and sustainability
1:01:39 Future: Music, career, and balance
1:06:51 Outro

📌 Resources
Will Judy:
◽️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/will.judy/
◽️ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willjudyy/
◽️ Highlights: https://youtu.be/ZBB-j4vnHdU?si=q8SAsLtvrqa7JZPy

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Support the show

How Andrea Bartolucci created a wine empire! | Madonna Estate (2nd oldest winery in Napa California)04 Sep 202500:55:56

Send us a text

Napa Valley’s Andrea Bartolucci pulls back the curtain on the hidden truths of winemaking, family business, and what it takes to thrive for a century.

Andrea Bartolucci is the proprietor of Madonna Estate and Madonna Vineyards, Napa’s second-oldest vineyard, founded by his Italian immigrant grandfather in 1922. A third-generation vintner, he’s led the family business to focus on organic, high-quality wines, producing 50,000 gallons annually. Now he’s confronting winemaking myths—from why passion trumps profit to how quality grapes, not branding, define great wine.

In this episode, Andrea Bartolucci reveals:
◽️ The SHOCKING prohibition-era winery survival trick!
◽️ Why he stuck with family vineyards!
◽️ The secret to Napa’s best wines!
◽️ How crop insurance saves disaster losses!
◽️ The mindset to outlast Napa competitors!

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:21 Three generations of Bartolucci winemaking
01:24 Surviving prohibition by selling grapes
01:54 Growing up with wine culture
02:10 Life in Napa’s vineyards as a child
03:47 Expanding from 24 to 275 acres
04:31 Quality vs. quantity in winemaking
04:52 Why good grapes make great wine
05:50 Differentiating Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
06:43 Matching grapes to Napa’s climate
07:11 Family legacy: Why kids joined winery
09:45 How vineyards grow under strict regulations
12:10 Producing 50,000 gallons with 120 acres
13:16 Custom crush: Boosting winery income
13:33 Family meetings for winery’s future
16:20 Crop insurance against fires, frost
18:09 Choosing wine: It’s all about taste
19:34 Napa’s cost barrier to new vintners
20:39 Passion drives Andrea’s winery devotion
22:59 Biggest regret: Staying too conservative
23:15 Tractor mishap: A childhood memory
27:04 Why wine doesn’t age forever
28:32 Speeding up wine aging risks
30:08 Location drives Napa wine quality
34:11 Branding vs. real wine quality
35:57 Competing in Napa’s crowded market
37:42 Upgrading barrels for better flavor
40:08 Winemaking mirrors raising daughters
42:57 Farming reality: Nature controls outcomes
44:52 Frost challenges in vineyard history
47:27 Organic farming since 1976
49:08 Grandfather’s advice: Accept gifts gratefully
51:39 Core value: Treat others fairly
52:44 Doubling down through adversity
53:06 One message: Find your passion
53:50 Reliving daughters’ birth moments
54:13 Legacy: Fairness and respect
54:55 What’s next for Andrea
55:12 One takeaway: Love your work

📌 Resources
Andrea Bartolucci:
◽️ Website: madonnaestate.com
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/madonnaestate

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financ

Support the show

One Chowdhury raised $2.6m to take down $300bn Salesforce!! (Duke Dropout!)04 Sep 202501:06:53

Send us a text

Duke dropout One Chowdhury pulls back the curtain on the lies we believe about startups, success, and what it really takes to challenge a $300B giant like Salesforce.

One Chowdhury is the CEO of Octolane, a Y Combinator-backed startup that raised $2.6M to build the first self-driving AI CRM. A self-taught coder who left Duke University to pursue his vision, he learned the pain of manual CRM entry during his internship at Mintlify. Now he’s confronting startup myths - from why focus trumps talent to how AI can transform sales workflows, freeing reps from tedious data entry.

In this episode, One Chowdhury reveals:
◽️ The SHOCKING Salesforce flaw reps hate!
◽️ Why he ditched Duke for startups!
◽️ The AI trick outsmarting CRM giants!
◽️ How Octolane’s $2.6M raise happened fast!
◽️ The mindset to beat impossible odds!

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:32 One’s discovery of Salesforce’s flaws
01:15 The emotional spark: Sales reps’ struggles
02:18 What Salesforce does and why it fails
02:47 Pain of manual CRM data entry
03:30 Why One chose to target Salesforce
04:51 Skepticism from others about his vision
05:06 Overcoming the “impossible” mindset
05:52 Silicon Valley’s hustle: Key lessons
06:30 Mintlify’s influence on One’s approach
07:17 Downsides of startup life exposed
10:33 Mintlify internship: Building AI products
11:50 Learning to ship fast, iterate later
12:46 Octolane’s self-driving AI CRM vision
14:20 How Octolane automates sales workflows
15:45 Early challenges: Gaining customer trust
18:06 Why focus beats shiny AI distractions
21:58 Coding as a superpower for all
23:15 High school project with 300,000 users
25:11 Why Duke was the right choice
26:10 Cultural shock at Duke University
30:34 AI tools like Cursor and Lovable
31:15 Can non-technical founders succeed?
33:00 Grit and discipline fuel Octolane’s rise
36:49 Biggest hurdle to beating Salesforce
39:11 Staying focused for a 10-year mission
40:30 Why Salesforce isn’t the real threat
42:40 Spotting real AI startups vs hype
44:15 Net Revenue Retention: The success metric
46:30 How One raised $2.6M so fast
48:00 Y Combinator’s role in Octolane’s growth
49:30 AI’s real-world impact on sales
58:49 Balancing AI rewards with safety
1:03:13 One’s legacy: Inspiring bold action
1:03:41 Next goal: Switch 100 companies
1:04:14 One’s advice: Focus and agency
1:06:51 Final reflections & takeaways

📌 Resources
One Chowdhury:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coffeewithone/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investm

Support the show

Personable Markets: Alibaba’s AI Boom, Fed Faces Trump & Retail Investors Shake Markets01 Sep 202501:03:53

Send us a text

This is the 1st episode of Personable markets in which I aim to speak to a hedgefund manager, VC or Investment Banker every week on real world market events. In this episode I speak to...

Stephen Roberts who is the founder of Orgueil Capital (an investment vehicle with its North Star to quintuple capital over the next 8-9 year period) & Former Partner at the Hedge Fund Horseman Capital.

In this episode, Stephen Roberts reveals:
◽️ The SURPRISING reason Hang Seng is one of 2025’s top indexes
◽️ Why Nvidia’s sky-high valuation could impact markets
◽️ His Secret to spotting China’s undervalued tech giants
◽️ The impact of Trump’s Fed pressure
◽️ The HIDDEN power of retail investors shaking markets

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:36 Hang Seng's Overlooked Surge
02:54 Alibaba's Cloud Computing Success
03:35 China's Geopolitical Investment Risks
05:00 U.S. Policies Create Global Opportunities
06:19 Nio's Strong China Performance
06:40 China's Online Shopping Trend
07:25 Misconceptions About China Media
09:19 AI Investment Beyond Nvidia
09:58 Nvidia's Competition Risks Exposed
10:49 DeepSeek's Sudden AI Launch
11:43 Mag 7's Continued AI Focus
12:31 Trump's Green Light for Tech
13:57 U.S.-China Trade Deal Prospects
14:39 China's Strength Against Trump
17:18 Trump's Growth Agenda Detailed
19:08 State vs. Fed Relationship
20:55 Fed Holding Rates Spitefully?
21:32 Presidents' Views on Rates
22:58 Rates Conversation Overemphasis
24:21 Finding Market Opportunities Elsewhere
25:49 Consumer Sentiment in U.S.
28:19 GameStop Retail Pump Phenomenon
30:10 Monitoring Retail Investor Sentiment
32:49 Citadel's AI Transcript Analysis
35:47 Nvidia's Singapore Revenue Risks
38:24 AI's iPhone Moment Evolution
40:08 Banks Benefiting from AI
41:08 LP's Long-Term Investment Strategy
44:08 Hedge Fund Failure Rates
45:18 S&P 500's High Risks
47:20 Equal-Weighted S&P Considerations
48:51 Mag 7 Distraction Warning
48:57 Key Trade Recommendations
49:39 Bitcoin's Government Hedge Role
50:56 Defense Stocks Like Palantir
55:02 Luxury Consumer Trends
57:16 Gambling Sector Regulatory Risks
58:25 Luxury's Global Bull Trend
59:05 Hedge Funds on Social Media
1:00:09 Podcasting's Structural Growth
1:00:53 Avoid U.S.-Centric Mindset
1:01:18 Final Market Themes Outlook
1:01:48 Key Risks in Next Months
1:03:08 Outro

-

📌 Resources
Stephen Roberts:
◽️ Orgueil Capital: https://www.orgueilcapital.com/our-story

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified fina

Support the show

Basketball Phenom's SECRET To Keep Winning! What It Takes To Get To The Top! (USA World Champion)31 Aug 202501:03:08

Send us a text

Duke basketball phenom Jadyn Donovan pulls back the curtain on the lies we believe about talent, success, and what it really takes to make it at the highest level

Jadyn Donovan is an elite basketball defender and two-time FIBA World Cup gold medalist (U17/U19). The Duke star earned 2025 ACC All-Defensive Team honors while leading the Blue Devils to the NCAA Sweet 16. A former McDonald's All-American who maintained Academic All-ACC status. Now she’s confronting NCAA myths— from why she tracks defensive stops as points scored to how natural talent not enough at the highest level 

In this episode, Jadyn Donovan reveals:
◽️ The SHOCKING last-minute twist that almost kept her from Duke
◽️ The defensive "basketball calculus" only elite players understand
◽️ How her FBI-level film study creates UNFAIR advantages
◽️ The 2 CRUCIAL plays that ended Duke's 2025 championship hopes
◽️ Why her academic focus remains UNTOUCHED by NIL distractions



⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:42 How Jadyn First Fell in Love with Basketball
02:03 The Game That Made Her Realize She Could Go Far
03:27 Being a Young Girl in Basketball & Defying Expectations
05:16 How Duke Entered the Picture (Her Recruitment Story)
06:26 Almost Going to Notre Dame Instead
07:10 What Jadyn Thought Duke Would Be Like vs. Reality
08:31 Why the “Sisterhood” at Duke Is So Special
10:01 Why People Stay at Duke Instead of Transferring
11:11 What Coach Kara Saw in Her Game
12:46 Behind the Scenes: Competing for a Spot Every Week
15:08 Feeling Pressure & How She Became More Free
17:25 How She Stays Disciplined When No One's Watching
19:03 Why She Refuses to Cut Corners
20:13 Breaking Mental Limits & Growing From Year 1 to 2
22:02 Her First Game at Duke & Early Season Highs and Lows
23:33 Biggest Differences Between High School & College Ball
25:06 The “Baby Jadyn” vs. “Mature Jadyn” Mindset Shift
26:35 Becoming One of the Top Defenders in the ACC
27:26 Her Step-by-Step Defensive Strategy & Scouting Process
29:13 Do Players Really Stick to Their Habits in Games?
30:05 What’s the Real Goal of Defense?
31:38 How She Actually Stops Elite Players
33:27 Playing Alongside NBA Prospects Like Cooper Flagg
35:55 Her Honest Take on the WNBA & Making a Living
37:10 The Power of NIL & Players Like Angel Reese
38:09 The Inequality Between Men’s and Women’s Attention
39:58 How She Turns Lack of Support Into Motivation
40:13 Building a Brand Like Caitlin Clark
43:55 Her Honest Take on NIL’s Impact (Good & Bad)
46:51 Learning to Trust the Right People
48:22 What She’s Learned About Money & Investing
50:23 Would She Stay in College Longer Just for NIL?
51:55 Will Duke Women’s Basketball Win a National Title?
52:42 Where Her Fierce Mindset Comes From
54:26 Biggest Misconception About Her
54:47 What She’d Do Differently If She Started Again
55:11 Best Advice She’s Ever Received
56:31 What Happiness Means to Her
58:35 What’s Her Purpose in Life?
59:39 Biggest Life Lesson So Far
1:00:35 How She Deals With Adversity
1:01:21 What’s Next for Jadyn
1:01:54 How She Wants to Be Remembered
1:02:38 Final Reflections & Takeaways

📌 Resources
Jadyn Donovan:
◽️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donovan_jadyn/?hl=en

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips

Support the show

The Market Experts: Quant AI has made Billionaires! Now Retail Investors Can Do It Too! (OpenQuant)28 Aug 202501:08:52

Send us a text

From Apple’s Touch ID to a $650M hedge fund–and from Vietnamese medtech to $80M in DeFi–Makoto Tominaga & Quoc Anh Ngo expose why retail trading is rigged, and how their AI platform OpenQuant is rewriting the rules of crypto, equities, and real estate investing.

Makoto Tominaga is a quant strategist at a $650M hedge fund and former Apple engineer who helped develop Touch ID security. Quoc Anh Ngo (QA) built medical rehab devices in Vietnam before creating DeFi protocols that secured $80M in deposits. Together, they're founding OpenQuant - an AI platform bringing institutional-grade trading tools to retail investors across crypto, stocks and real estate.

Makoto & QA reveal:
◽️ Why 95% of traders fail—and how their AI cracks the code
◽️ From Apple’s biometrics to DeFi security—the hidden link in financial safety
◽️ The $80M DeFi disaster that rewrote their rules for risk
◽️ Why VC money is a trap—and their unconventional funding blueprint
◽️ "Institutional tools break for retail"—Makoto’s law of real-world finance

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
01:23 How Makoto and QA Met
02:33 Why Makoto Joined Forces with QA
05:10 Taking on Hard Problems with AI and Finance
08:20 Why Not Keep the Edge to Themselves?
10:50 Building a Win-Win Business Model
12:27 What Is OpenQuant? (Beginner Explanation)
15:56 How Funds Build Strategies Step-by-Step
17:54 Why Funds Miss Big Opportunities
20:08 How AI Supercharges Research and Strategy
22:44 Helping Everyday Investors Avoid Risky Mistakes
23:44 6 Big Questions from Harvey
25:53 Do All Users Get the Same Info?
27:25 Can Makoto and QA See Everyone’s Trades?
30:12 Privacy and Ethics of Trade Data
32:05 Why Give Risky Tools to Non-Experts?
35:16 Will Hedge Funds Lose Their Edge?
37:08 What Risks Should Users Be Aware Of?
39:33 Why OpenQuant Helps, Not Harms
40:53 Quant vs. Gut Investing – Which Is Better?
44:13 What People Don’t Understand About Crypto
47:53 Rapid Fire: What Drives Makoto and QA
50:50 What Motivates Them
52:13 Best Advice They’ve Received
55:20 How They Handle Stress and Uncertainty
57:07 Questions They’re Rarely Asked
1:01:03 Why Take Big Risks
1:03:20 Final Takeaways for the Listener
1:08:26 Outro

📌 Resources
QA:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/q-anh-ngo-361556200/

Makoto Tominaga: 
◽️ Website: https://yseali.fulbright.edu.vn/en/2022-digitization-of-trust/makoto-tominaga/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Support the show

ONLY 0.1% Make It Into Citadel Securities! Their Chief People Officer REVEALS What It REALLY Takes!22 Aug 202500:51:09

Send us a text

Citadel Securities’ Chief People Officer, Alex DiLeonardo, reveals how the firm spots outliers early, evaluates talent with surgical precision, and ties every employee’s work directly to CEO-level goals.

Alex DiLeonardo is the Chief People Officer at Citadel Securities, where he leads global talent strategy across recruiting, development, and performance. He previously served as Chief Talent Officer at Activision Blizzard and was a partner at McKinsey & Company, with earlier experience at JPMorgan Chase and Deloitte. Alex holds degrees from Carnegie Mellon’s Tepper School of Business and Heinz College, and lectures at Harvard, Wharton, and other global business schools on aligning people systems with business performance.

In this episode, Alex reveals:
◽️ How Citadel Securities identifies high-potential talent and gives them direct project ownership from day one
◽️ Why every employee’s goals are explicitly tied to CEO-level business outcomes
◽️ How AI and automation are reshaping performance management - without losing the human touch
◽️ What makes HR in hedge funds radically different from Fortune 500 companies
◽️ His “capital I” career model - and why nonlinear growth beats fast promotions

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:42 Becoming Chief People Officer
03:07 People as competitive advantage
03:43 Culture that attracts talent
05:52 Early career growth opportunities
06:45 What talent really wants
10:48 Career as an “I” shape
11:24 Culture from top and bottom
13:43 Values: winning, meritocracy, learning
15:06 Culture vs. performance balance
16:31 Citadel Securities vs Citadel hedge fund
17:14 Graduate recruiting & training programs
18:45 Why Harvey chose Goldman Sachs
21:22 Resume proxies and candidate fit
23:20 Balancing established vs startup culture
24:28 Unique top-down project assignments
25:53 Talent insights from a headhunter’s son
27:31 Strategy amid fast-changing markets
30:20 Living meritocracy: goal ownership
34:19 Avoiding credit-stealing and accountability
35:48 Why share knowledge publicly?
36:58 Leadership beliefs unlearned
38:02 Competitive intensity & mental health
38:32 Values supporting performance
39:18 Assessing potential, long & short term
39:30 AI as an enabler, not threat
40:00 Common HR misconceptions
40:09 Advice for aspiring Chief People Officers
41:36 Question not asked enough
42:31 Favorite restaurant & cycling passion
46:51 Foot off the pedal? Restlessness
48:16 What’s next & desired legacy
49:39 Key takeaway for listeners
51:01 Outro

📌 Resources
Alexander DiLeonardo
◽️ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderdileonardo/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Support the show

EXCLUSIVE With Tiger Woods CEO: “Being Liked ≠ Success. Respect Is Everything!” (Former NBA Exec)20 Aug 202501:00:12

Send us a text

From the NBA to leading Tiger Woods’ foundation, Rick Singer reveals why earning respect, not popularity, is the key to leadership, how elite athletes build lasting influence, and what most CEOs get wrong about impact.

Rick Singer is the former President and CEO of the Tiger Woods Foundation, where he led global education, youth development, and philanthropic strategy for one of the most iconic athletes of all time. Prior to that, he held senior roles at the NBA, IBM, and KemperSports Management, and served as a marketing professor at Duke University. With a career spanning elite sports, corporate leadership, and education, Rick brings hard-earned insights into influence, branding, and building trust at the highest level.

In this episode, Rick revealed:
◽️ Why being respected, not liked, is the trait top performers and great leaders prioritize
◽️ What it was like working directly with Tiger Woods - and how Tiger built trust without words
◽️ The leadership lessons CEOs can borrow from elite athletes and coaches
◽️ How to build a high-performance team culture without micromanaging
◽️ The most common mistake young professionals make when trying to lead early in their careers

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
01:03 Rick’s start in nonprofits
02:46 Poll EV question on nonprofits
03:55 Why Rick chose nonprofit work
05:57 Paying nonprofit workers better
07:06 Measuring nonprofit success
09:24 Fundraising and impact metrics
10:33 Comparing nonprofit to business
11:09 Working with Tiger Woods
13:41 Growth at Tiger Woods Foundation
16:53 Why Rick left the foundation
17:28 Deal making nonprofit vs for-profit
19:17 Rick’s time at IBM
23:24 Digital impact on sports
24:04 AI vs crypto/metaverse
27:33 Balancing profit and passion
30:05 Why sports marketing works
32:29 NBA vs IBM marketing
35:09 Handling backlash (Bud Light)
38:51 Marketing & evolving values
40:47 Importance of values
44:13 Aligning culture and values
49:28 Rick’s key personal values
51:39 Misconceptions about Rick’s work
52:26 Unlearning: being liked vs respected
53:16 Advice for college grads
54:33 Best advice Rick received
55:30 Question Rick hasn’t been asked
56:53 What’s next for Rick
58:00 Rick’s legacy
58:31 Rick’s message: patience
59:36 Outro

📌 Resources
Rick Singer
◽️ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-singer-9a44037/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Support the show

Mungo McCosh: Going Off the Beaten Track, Building an Audience, and Living Authentically Online23 Dec 202501:03:13

Send us a text

Travel creator Mungo McCosh (70,000 followers) breaks down how living differently, thinking independently, and embracing discomfort can unlock freedom, creativity, and a global audience.

Mungo is the founder of Mungo TV, a rapidly growing travel and culture platform known for raw storytelling, sharp humour, and honest perspectives on places most people never see. From Mongolia to China, his work challenges curated travel, mainstream narratives, and algorithm driven thinking.

In this conversation, Mungo shares what he has learned about authenticity, social media growth, comedy, censorship, and why doing your own thing is still the most powerful strategy.

He explains:
◽️ Why going off the beaten track creates better stories and a better life
◽️ How to grow on social media without chasing followers or trends
◽️ The real mechanics behind viral content and audience growth
◽️ How humour, satire, and risk shape long term reputation
◽️ What living in China is actually like beyond Western media

00:00 Growing Up Across Cultures
02:10 Rejecting Curated Travel
04:00 From School Expectations to Independence
06:43 Starting Mungo TV
10:43 Being Recognised and Staying Grounded
14:11 How Viral Comedy Really Works
21:45 Turning Ideas Into Content
26:54 Making Better Videos
32:46 Why Niches Matter
40:55 Comedy, Free Speech, and Risk
53:52 Living and Creating in China
58:12 Legacy and Meaning
1:00:44 One Lesson to Remember

Mungo McCosh:
◽️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcmungo.tv/
◽️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mungo-mccosh-a81954261/
◽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@McMungoTV
◽️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mcmungotv?_r=1&_t=ZN-91quCiznHni

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): https://x.com/harveybsmith_
◽️ Newsletter: https://personable.substack.com/
◽️ Website: https://www.personable.media/

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: https://instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ Fundraising: https://www.loulouracefoundation.org/donate

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023. 

This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Investing involves risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results.

Support the show

Meet the Hall Of Fame Advisor to the NFL, Ryder Cup AND NASCAR! SportsMediaAdvisors CEO Reveals All!15 Aug 202500:48:07

Send us a text

Doug Perlman breaks down the media rights gold rush, why private equity is flooding into sports, and how NIL is transforming college athletics—drawing from deals across the NFL, Ryder Cup and NASCAR.

Doug Perlman is the Founder and CEO of Sports Media Advisors, a boutique advisory firm specializing in media rights, strategy, and transactions across professional sports. Since launching SMA in 2009, he has advised major leagues, teams, media networks, and private equity firms on high-value broadcast and digital rights deals. Previously, Perlman served as EVP of Media at the NHL and later as President of IMG Media North America. He began his career at Proskauer Rose LLP. A Sports Business Journal “Forty Under 40” Hall of Fame inductee, Perlman holds a JD from the University of Virginia School of Law and a BA from Duke University.

In this episode, Doug Perlman revealed:
◽️ The founding story and core services of Sports Media Advisors (SMA)
◽️ How private equity firms are increasingly investing in sports, from major leagues to emerging ones like pickleball
◽️ Building trust through long-term relationships and handling failures in the sports industry  
◽️ Strategies for maintaining a lean team while handling high-quality clients and deals  
◽️ The evolution of NIL in college sports, from initial ideals to pay-for-play realities and future settlements

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro  
00:56 How Doug got started in sports  
02:31 Someone Doug worked with at IMG  
03:00 What Doug’s company does  
05:33 Are sports teams too expensive now?  
06:04 What other sports people are investing in  
07:13 How Doug got big-name clients  
07:38 Why people trust Doug’s company  
09:09 How Doug keeps strong relationships  
10:09 What Doug does when something goes wrong  
11:39 Doug’s first big deal  
13:30 How Doug learned new skills  
16:21 Doug’s dream client  
18:27 What keeps Doug excited about work  
20:53 Why his team is small  
23:05 What NIL is and why it matters  
26:39 Why NIL is tricky  
29:46 Will people still like college sports?  
31:44 What the Olympics can teach us  
33:29 Why sports is like buying juice  
35:08 How Doug knows what something is worth  
37:20 Doug’s tips for making deals  
39:34 Why hard work matters  
42:09 A question Doug doesn’t get often  
42:54 Doug’s best advice ever  
45:12 One big lesson from Doug  
46:29 Host shares his thoughts  
47:34 Outro  

📌 Resources
Doug Perlman
◽️ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-perlman-0405877/

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ Website: www.personable.media
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Support the show

Meet the Genius HedgeFund Manager Who NEVER Lost Money! (Worked For Steve Cohen & Michael Platt)12 Aug 202501:07:57

Send us a text

Lia Forcina shares how she went from a newspaper job ad to managing $100M+ - revealing what she learned from Steve Cohen, why AI is killing junior roles, and the “3-unit rule” that’s kept her profitable every single year.

Lia Forcina is a partner and portfolio manager at LGR Capital in London. She previously held roles at BlueCrest Capital, SAC Capital (now Point72), and Morgan Stanley. Lia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Rome Tor Vergata (110/110 cum laude) and a Master’s degree in Statistics and Econometrics from Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore. 

In this episode, Lia Forcina revealed:
◽️ How a random newspaper ad and a bar conversation launched her into Morgan Stanley
◽️ The ski accident that forced her out of banking - and into a trading desk that changed everything
◽️ What it was really like working under Steve Cohen and Mike Platt - and why their intensity isn’t for everyone
◽️ Her “3-unit rule” for cutting losses - the risk strategy that’s kept her profitable every single year
◽️ Why AI is wiping out junior roles - and how it’s forcing portfolio managers to evolve fast

-

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:45 How Lia got her job
05:30 Her work now and before
06:40 Working at SAC and meeting Steve Cohen
09:15 Why learning from older people helps
11:57 When to stop losing money
15:50 What keeps her working hard
18:00 How AI helps her work
20:57 Using AI her way
22:35 How she checks success and risk
25:17 Her secret: cut losses fast
26:41 Advice for new investors
29:11 Why Steve Cohen and Michael Platt are special
31:26 How to tell real ideas from noise
33:28 Why hedge funds beat banks
35:39 Can anyone be a great investor?
37:00 How to learn investing alone
39:41 Her view on tariffs
42:49 Her thoughts on AI changing jobs
45:33 Her worry about no AI rules
47:02 Investing US vs Europe
50:15 Biggest growth areas
52:36 Wrong ideas about her
53:21 Best advice she got
54:41 Question she’s not asked
55:28 Why she has strong opinions
56:45 Her thoughts on cancel culture
58:07 Personal story about honesty
1:01:44 Her message: talk to each other
1:04:34 What she wants next
1:05:53 How she wants to be remembered
1:06:45 Her biggest lesson: handle pain
1:07:16 Outro

📌 Resources
Lia Forcina 
◽️ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lia-forcina-17352459 

Harvey Bracken-Smith:
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/harveybracken-smith
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/harveybsmith
◽️ X (Twitter): x.com/harveybsmith_

Personable Podcast:
◽️ Instagram: instagram.com/personable.podcast
◽️ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/personablepodcast
◽️ TikTok: tiktok.com/@personableclips
◽️ Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/7JOTYDER6m2FDrlhop4api
◽️ Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/personable/id1671640111

Additional:
◽️ The Draft (Sign up): thedraft.io
◽️ Fundraising: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/LouLouRacefoiundation?utm_term=PvByaxmdn

Personable is a podcast dedicated to helping listeners become the best they can be by learning from the world’s best in their respective fields. This mission is inspired by my mother, Louise, who encouraged me to become the best version of myself before she passed away from cancer in 2023.

Support the show

© My Podcast Data