Hosted by Peter Mallouk, this series features candid conversations with the world’s leading entrepreneurs, founders, changemakers and leaders. Each episode goes beyond headlines to reveal the choices, risks and habits that drive long-term success. From entrepreneurship and leadership to innovation and everyday money decisions, Peter and his guests unpack the stories and forces shaping how people build, lead and live well.
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Dimensional Founder David Booth | Investing, Market Uncertainty and True Wealth
Episode 16
Tuesday, September 29, 2026 • Duration 40:33
How should investors navigate market uncertainty without letting fear derail their long-term plans? Dimensional Fund Advisors Founder and Chairman David Booth, a New York Times bestselling author, joins Creative Planning President and CEO Peter Mallouk on Icons and Ideas to discuss the investing principles, academic research, and life lessons behind one of the world’s most influential investment firms.
David shares how studying under Nobel laureate Eugene Fama helped shape his belief in applying the science of investing rather than trying to outguess the market. He takes Peter inside the early days of Dimensional Fund Advisors, from testing the idea of a small-cap fund with institutional investors to working with Vanguard founder Jack Bogle to help launch the firm’s first mutual fund.
David and Peter also explore why uncertainty creates opportunity, the behavioral mistakes that can permanently hurt investors and why remaining invested matters during volatile markets. Beyond investing, David reflects on philanthropy, purchasing James Naismith’s original rules of basketball, the meaning of true wealth and the values that have guided his career and life.
What You’ll Learn
✅ How academic research helped shape David Booth’s approach to investing and the creation of Dimensional Fund Advisors ✅ Why uncertainty is a necessary part of investing and can create opportunities for long-term investors ✅ Why investor behavior and staying invested can matter as much as investment strategy ✅ How David thinks about true wealth, philanthropy, values and building a meaningful legacy
(18:15) Why investors need the right financial advisor
(19:33) The science behind Dimensional’s investment philosophy
(21:12) Buying the original rules of basketball
(25:12) David Booth’s approach to philanthropy and true wealth
(32:25) Why you should “go for the best” in your career
(33:24) The connection between art and the science of investing
(35:53) The mentors who shaped David Booth
(38:21) How to evolve your role throughout your career
(39:53) What it means to feel safe as an investor
Key Takeaways
🔹 Uncertainty creates opportunity. Investors can’t eliminate uncertainty, but they can seek opportunities for higher expected returns.
🔹 Staying invested matters. Emotional decisions during market declines can turn temporary volatility into permanent losses.
🔹 Investing should be evidence-based. Dimensional applies financial science and academic research to real-world investing.
🔹 True wealth goes beyond money. For David, wealth is rooted in family, values and what matters most.
About David Booth
David Booth is the Founder and Chairman of Dimensional Fund Advisors, a $1 trillion global investment firm known for its evidence-based approach. Over five decades, he has helped bridge academic research and practical investing, including work that helped shape index and factor investing.
Booth studied at the University of Kansas and the University of Chicago, whose business school bears his name. His philanthropy also includes the largest donation in University of Kansas history and support for arts and conservation initiatives.
Peter Mallouk is the President and CEO of Creative Planning, a financial advisor, an entrepreneur, a lawyer and a New York Times bestselling author. Since 2004, he has led Creative Planning in providing comprehensive wealth management services to individuals, families and businesses across the United States and abroad.
Recognized as a leading voice in wealth management, investing and financial planning, Peter brings decades of experience to his conversations with some of the world’s most accomplished leaders and thinkers. Through Icons and Ideas, he explores the pivotal decisions, lessons, failures and experiences that shape extraordinary careers and meaningful lives.
Inner Excellence Author Jim Murphy: Why Success Isn’t Enough
Episode 15
Tuesday, September 15, 2026 • Duration 24:55
What if achieving everything you want still doesn’t give you the life you’re looking for? "Inner Excellence" author and former professional baseball player Jim Murphy joins Creative Planning President and CEO Peter Mallouk on Icons and Ideas to explore why achievement, confidence, money and status alone don’t create fulfillment and what it really takes to perform at your best under pressure.
Jim shares the remarkable journey that took him from professional baseball and the Chicago Cubs organization to giving away most of what he owned and moving to the Arizona desert in search of a greater purpose. He explains the principles behind “Inner Excellence,” including why presence can be more powerful than confidence, how our attachment to possessions, achievements, looks, money and status can hold us back and why the goals we chase may not be what we truly want.
Jim also reflects on the unexpected moment Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown was seen reading "Inner Excellence" during an NFL playoff game, sending a book that had struggled for 16 years into the spotlight. Through it all, Jim challenges high achievers to redefine success, pursue a fullness of life and devote themselves to something greater than themselves.
What You’ll Learn
✅ Why presence and belief can be more powerful than confidence under pressure ✅ How chasing possessions, achievements, looks, money and status can create an illusion of success ✅ What Jim Murphy learned from 16 years of persistence before "Inner Excellence" became a breakout success ✅ Why pursuing purpose, unconditional love and a fullness of life can matter more than conventional achievements
Sponsored By
This episode is brought to you by Apollo. Private markets have evolved, and public markets capture only part of the opportunity. Apollo brings more than 35 years of experience across the breadth of private markets. Learn more at Apollo.com/ASPM
Timestamps
(00:00) Jim Murphy on why success isn’t enough (01:50) Leaving everything behind for the Arizona desert
Vanguard CEO Salim Ramji: The Future of Investing, AI and Private Markets
Episode 14
Tuesday, September 1, 2026 • Duration 48:21
What does the future of investing look like as artificial intelligence, private markets and speculation reshape finance? Vanguard CEO Salim Ramji joins Creative Planning President and CEO Peter Mallouk on Icons and Ideas to discuss the principles that have made Vanguard one of the most influential investment firms in the world and how those principles are evolving for the next generation of investors.
Salim also shares why Vanguard is acquiring Altruist and how the move could expand access to high-quality financial advice while empowering more independent advisors to serve more families.
Salim shares how Vanguard is carrying forward Jack Bogle’s legacy of low-cost, diversified, long-term investing while expanding into areas including ETFs, fixed income, private markets and financial advice. He and Peter also explore the growing divide between investing and speculation, Vanguard’s approach to Bitcoin and prediction markets, and why AI could dramatically expand access to high-quality financial advice. Salim also reflects on leadership, Vanguard’s unique culture and the simple advice that changed the trajectory of his career.
What You’ll Learn
✅ Why Vanguard continues to prioritize low-cost, diversified and long-term investing ✅ How Salim Ramji thinks about private markets, Bitcoin and the rise of speculative investing ✅ Why AI could transform financial advice and expand access for millions of Americans ✅ How Jack Bogle’s philosophy continues to influence Vanguard’s strategy and culture
This episode is brought to you by Blackstone. With proven performance for over 40 years, Blackstone’s investment strategies across private equity, real estate, credit and infrastructure are designed to help investors build wealth by diversifying portfolios beyond stocks and bonds.
(00:00) The leadership advice that changed Salim Ramji’s career
Morgan Housel: “The Psychology of Money,” Wealth and What Actually Makes You Rich
Episode 13
Tuesday, August 18, 2026 • Duration 53:28
What does it actually mean to be wealthy? Bestselling author Morgan Housel joins Peter Mallouk to explore why building wealth has less to do with intelligence and more to do with behavior, independence and understanding what money is really for.
Morgan shares the thinking behind “The Psychology of Money,” why every U.S. publisher initially rejected the book, and the stories that shaped his approach to money and investing. He explains why financial success is often driven by behavior rather than knowledge, why getting rich and staying rich require different skills, and why some of the best financial decisions can’t be measured on a spreadsheet.
Morgan addresses the difference between being rich and being wealthy, raising kids with healthy money habits, taking risks, dealing with success and defining "enough" in his refreshingly human perspective on building wealth and living a meaningful life.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
✅ Why financial behavior can matter more than intelligence when building long-term wealth
✅ The difference between being rich and being truly wealthy and why Morgan defines wealth through independence
✅ Why the mathematically "best" financial decision isn't always the best decision for your life
✅ How risk, expectations, happiness and knowing when you have "enough" can shape financial success
This episode is brought to you by Avantis Investors. Broad diversification and thoughtful implementation. Daily oversight and low fees. You don’t have to choose. Start saying “and.” Talk to your advisor about Avantis and visit avantisinvestors.com.
Timestamps
(00:00) “The Psychology of Money”, Wealth and What Actually Makes You Rich
(01:33) Why Morgan Housel's writing resonates around the world
(06:39) Why behavior matters more than intelligence with money
(13:49) Why we've “solved” investing but not investor behaviors
(18:38) The avalanche tragedy that changed Morgan's view of risk
(26:01) Why wealthy people can still lose everything
Key Takeaways
About Morgan Housel
Connect with Peter Mallouk
Follow Creative Planning
Browse More Icons and Ideas Episodes
Check Out Peter’s Other Podcasts
Carlyle CEO Harvey Schwartz| Leadership and the Future of Private Markets
Episode 12
Tuesday, August 4, 2026 • Duration 55:14
What does great leadership look like in today's rapidly changing world? Harvey Schwartz believes it begins with opportunity, resilience, continuous learning and investing in people. On Icons and Ideas, Peter Mallouk sits down with Harvey Schwartz, CEO of Carlyle, to discuss leadership, private markets, investing, artificial intelligence and the mindset needed to succeed in uncertain times.
Harvey shares his journey from a challenging childhood to leading one of the world's largest investment firms. He reflects on the mentors and opportunities that shaped his career, lessons from Goldman Sachs and why culture, trust and disciplined decision-making drive long-term success. Peter and Harvey also explore private equity, AI, global markets and the future of investing, offering practical insights for leaders, entrepreneurs, investors and anyone looking to build resilience and lead with purpose.
The following episode contains discussions about mental health and suicide. Listener discretion is advised. Please visit nami.org for more information or to connect with a mental health professional.
What You'll Learn
✅ The leadership lessons that helped Harvey Schwartz become CEO of Carlyle
✅ Why resilience, mentorship and continuous learning are essential for leadership
✅ How private markets, private equity and AI are reshaping the future of investing
✅ The leadership habits that help organizations succeed during uncertainty
This episode is brought to you by State Street Select Sector SPDR ETFs. Invest where you see opportunity with the 11 Select Sector SPDR ETFs. StateStreet.com
Timestamps
(00:00) Leadership, Resilience and the Future of Private Markets
(01:48) Growing up with parents battling mental illness
(05:55) The mentors and opportunities that shaped Harvey's life
(13:59) Mental health, resilience and overcoming adversity
Key Takeaways
About the Guest
Connect with Peter Mallouk
Follow Creative Planning
Browse More Icons and Ideas Episodes
Check Out Peter’s Other Podcasts
Inside the Frame: Platon on What the World's Most Powerful People Reveal When the Camera Clicks
Episode 11
Tuesday, June 2, 2026 • Duration 01:09:32
What do world leaders, celebrities, activists and ordinary people reveal when they think no one is watching? Legendary photographer Platon joins Peter Mallouk for a remarkable conversation about trust, vulnerability, leadership and the human stories behind some of the most iconic portraits ever captured.
Having photographed presidents, prime ministers, Nobel Peace Prize winners, business leaders, artists and activists around the world, Platon explains how authentic human connection allows him to reveal the real person behind power. From photographing Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and Jimmy Carter to documenting human rights defenders in conflict zones, Platon shares extraordinary stories that redefine leadership, courage, curiosity and empathy.
More than a conversation about photography, this episode explores why curiosity matters, how vulnerability creates trust and what business leaders can learn about bringing people together in an increasingly divided world.
Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, creative professional, photographer, or simply fascinated by human behavior, this episode offers timeless lessons on communication, influence and authentic connection.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
✅ How Platon's Greek village childhood and dyslexia shaped his fearless approach to people
✅ What Clinton, Obama, Bush, Trump and Putin are really like behind closed doors
✅ The technique Platon uses to disarm even the most powerful people in the world
✅ Why business leaders, not politicians, are the real champions of our time
This episode includes a paid advertisement purchased by a sponsor for placement on a Creative Planning podcast. The advertisement does not constitute or imply an endorsement, recommendation or affiliation between the sponsor and Creative Planning
Timestamps
Inside Global Power: Secretary Condoleezza Rice on Leadership and the New World Order
Episode 10
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 • Duration 01:02:46
Former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice joins Peter Mallouk to discuss leadership, global politics, China, Russia, NATO, 9/11, artificial intelligence and the future of world power.
On this episode of Icons and Ideas, Condoleezza Rice, the 66th U.S. Secretary of State and current Tad and Dianne Taube Director of the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, shares how growing up during the Civil Rights Movement shaped her leadership philosophy and reflects on the high-pressure decisions made during 9/11, Iraq, Afghanistan and the evolving Russia-Ukraine conflict. The conversation also explores globalization, China’s rise, artificial intelligence, democracy and the future of international relations in a rapidly changing world.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:
✅ How Secretary Condoleezza Rice’s childhood in segregated Birmingham shaped her leadership mindset
✅ The behind-the-scenes decisions made during the first hours of 9/11
✅ Why China, Russia, NATO and global power dynamics are rapidly changing
✅ How globalization, AI, and populism are reshaping the future economy and workforce
This episode is brought to you by BlackRock. What if your portfolio could do more than invest for returns — what if it could help you keep more of what you earn? BlackRock’s Aperio tax-managed solutions are designed to help do just that. Learn more.
Timestamps
(00:00) Secretary Condoleezza Rice on growing up in segregated Birmingham
(02:20) Faith, family, education, and overcoming adversity
(03:38) Inside the first moments of the 9/11 attacks
(07:48) Lessons learned from 9/11 and Homeland Security
(09:20) Secretary Condoleezza Rice reflects on Iraq and weapons of mass destruction
Connect with Peter MalloukFollow Creative PlanningBrowse More Icons and Ideas EpisodesCheck Out Peter’s Other Podcasts
Franklin Templeton CEO Jenny Johnson | The Rise of AI, Private Market Access and Building Winning Teams
Episode 9
Thursday, April 9, 2026 • Duration 39:04
How are artificial intelligence, private markets and private credit changing the future of investing? They’re transforming how investors build wealth, diversify portfolios and access new opportunities beyond traditional public markets. Franklin Templeton CEO Jenny Johnson joins Peter Mallouk to explain how AI is reshaping financial services, why private equity and private credit are becoming essential portfolio tools, and what investors need to know about the future of wealth management.
Jenny shares her journey from the Franklin Templeton mail room to leading one of the world's largest asset managers, overseeing $1.7 trillion in assets. She explains how AI, blockchain, tokenization and technological innovation are changing investing, why leadership and culture matter more than ever, and how investors can think differently about public and private markets.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
✅ Why AI, blockchain and tokenization are transforming investing and financial services
✅ How private equity and private credit are reshaping modern investment portfolios
✅ The leadership lessons Jenny learned while leading a $1.7 trillion asset manager
✅ Why innovation, adaptability and strong culture are becoming competitive advantages in business
Visit PeterMallouk.com for more conversations with world-class leaders, authors and experts on investing, leadership and living a meaningful life.
Timestamps
(00:00) AI, private markets, and the future of investing
(01:28) From the mailroom to CEO
(03:05) Leadership lessons and managing change
(05:52) Why AI is moving faster than anyone expected
(09:03) The rise of private markets
Schwab CEO Rick Wurster | Crypto, AI and the Shifts Impacting How We Invest
Episode 8
Tuesday, March 10, 2026 • Duration 28:37
How will AI, cryptocurrency and the next generation of investors reshape the future of finance? Charles Schwab CEO Rick Wurster joins Peter Mallouk to discuss the biggest trends transforming investing, wealth management and financial services.
Rick shares why convenience has become one of the most powerful forces in investing, how younger investors are changing the industry, how Charles Schwab is approaching Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins and blockchain technology, and why AI will enhance financial advisors instead of replacing them. He also explains digital assets, the future of prediction markets and the innovations Schwab is making to help millions of investors build better financial futures.
Whether you are an investor, a financial advisor, an entrepreneur or simply curious about where money and technology are heading, this conversation offers practical insights from the CEO of one of the world's largest financial services firms.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
✅ Why AI will transform investing and financial advice without replacing human advisors
✅ Charles Schwab's strategy for Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins and digital assets
✅ How Gen Z investors are changing investing, wealth management and financial markets
✅ Why convenience, innovation and client-first thinking are shaping the future of financial services
Visit PeterMallouk.com for more conversations with world-class leaders, authors and experts on investing, leadership and living a meaningful life.
Timestamps
(00:00) Crypto, AI, and the shifts impacting how we invest
(00:44) Leading Schwab and putting clients first
(02:21) Four trends reshaping investing
Vista Equity Partners Founder Robert F. Smith | AI, Investing and the Biggest Tech Shift Since the Internet
Episode 7
Tuesday, February 24, 2026 • Duration 44:21
How will artificial intelligence reshape investing, software, careers and the global economy? Vista Equity Partners Founder Robert F. Smith joins Peter Mallouk for a masterclass on AI, enterprise software, private equity and the future of business.
As one of the world's leading technology investors, Robert explains why AI is creating the biggest transformation since the internet, how enterprise software companies will evolve, what investors are getting wrong about AI and the skills professionals need to thrive in a rapidly changing economy.
Whether you are an investor, an entrepreneur, a business leader or simply trying to understand what's next, this episode delivers practical insights into where technology, capital and innovation are heading.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
✅ Why AI is transforming enterprise software, investing and business faster than ever before
✅ How private equity firms evaluate technology companies in the age of artificial intelligence
✅ The skills professionals need to stay valuable as AI changes the workforce
✅ Why innovation, discipline and continuous learning are essential for long-term success
Visit PeterMallouk.com for more conversations with world-class leaders, authors and experts on investing, leadership and living a meaningful life.
Timestamps
(00:00) Investing and the biggest tech shift since the internet
(01:26) From engineer to Founder of Vista Equity Partners
(06:08) The biggest AI trends shaping business today
(24:56) Investing through technological disruption
(33:26) AI, market volatility and the future of investing
Icons and Ideas with Peter Mallouk, a podcast by Peter Mallouk - Stats, Episodes and Rankings - My Podcast Data
(04:12) How elite athletes perform under extreme pressure
(06:37) The Three Worlds model and the problem with chasing results
(08:59) How A.J. Brown changed
Inner Excellence
overnight
(12:23) PALMS: possessions, achievements, looks, money, and status
(14:06) Why the heart decides and the mind follows
(16:05) Why presence and belief can be more powerful than confidence
(19:15) Why even the biggest goals may be too small
(21:22) Selflessness, fear, love, and finding a purpose beyond yourself
Key Takeaways
🔹 Success isn’t necessarily fulfillment. Jim believes people often pursue money, status, championships and recognition because of what they think those achievements will make them feel rather than because of the achievements themselves.
🔹 Presence can be more powerful than confidence. Confidence is the feeling that you can accomplish something. Jim describes belief as knowing you’ll be okay regardless of the outcome, while presence removes attachment to the past and future.
🔹 Focus on what you can control. The four daily goals of "Inner Excellence" are to give your best today, be present, be grateful, and focus on your routines and what you can control.
🔹 Purpose goes beyond personal achievement. Jim argues that complete freedom and material success can still leave people feeling empty. He believes a powerful vision and purpose beyond yourself can create a deeper sense of being fully alive.
About Jim Murphy
#1 New York Times bestselling author Jim Murphy is a Performance Coach to some of the best athletes and leaders in the world. He began his career as a professional baseball player in the Chicago Cubs organization. After experiencing vision issues that ended his playing career, Murphy coached with the Texas Rangers as well as the South African Olympic baseball team. He has worked with some of the world’s best golfers, including world champions, FedEx Cup champions, and world #1s. The majority of Murphy’s clients have the best year of their careers in their first year working with him. In addition to coaching professional athletes and executives, Murphy leads "Inner Excellence" offsite retreats around the globe. He’s the president of the "Inner Excellence" Freedom Project, whose mission is to build communities to alleviate spiritual and physical poverty around the world.
(01:49) Vanguard announces its acquisition of Altruist
(07:00) Jack Bogle’s legacy and the evolution of Vanguard
(09:55) The investing principles Vanguard refuses to change
(15:38) Becoming the first outsider to lead Vanguard
(21:16) Meme stocks and the line between investing and gambling
(23:21) Vanguard’s position on Bitcoin and speculative investing
(27:47) Why Vanguard is moving into private markets
(32:18) Vanguard’s influence on corporate America
(36:01) How AI could transform financial advice
(45:06) Jack Bogle, mentorship, and the future of leadership
Key Takeaways
🔹 Vanguard’s products may evolve, but its core principles of low costs, diversification and long-term investing remain central to the firm’s philosophy.
🔹 Salim warns that meme stocks, prediction markets and other forms of speculation risk blurring the important distinction between investing and gambling.
🔹 Private markets could play a role in certain investor portfolios, but Salim believes greater transparency and more client-friendly fees are essential.
🔹 AI has the potential to complement human financial advisors while expanding access to financial advice for Americans who currently can’t afford or access an advisor.
About Salim Ramji
Salim Ramji is Chief Executive Officer of Vanguard and a member of the firm’s board of directors, leading 20,000 crew dedicated to giving all investors the best chance for investment success. Founded in 1975, Vanguard provides investments, advice and retirement services to more than 50 million individual investors around the world through direct investing, workplace plans and financial intermediaries.
Throughout his career, Salim has worked to make investing more accessible and empower investors to prepare for a secure retirement. Prior to joining Vanguard in July 2024, he spent 30 years in leadership roles spanning investments, capital markets and wealth management.
Salim holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and politics from the University of Toronto and an M.A. in law from Cambridge University. He’s also a CFA® charterholder.
This episode is brought to you by Blackstone. With proven performance for over 40 years, Blackstone’s investment strategies across private equity, real estate, credit and infrastructure are designed to help investors build wealth by diversifying portfolios beyond stocks and bonds.
This episode includes an advertisement by the sponsor. The advertisement does not constitute or imply an endorsement, recommendation or affiliation between the sponsor and Creative Planning.
(30:47) The difference between being rich and wealthy
(36:05) Why Morgan paid off a low-interest mortgage
(40:26) How successful investors think about market volatility
(47:51) Teaching kids healthy money habits
🔹Financial success is behavioral. Intelligence and financial knowledge matter, but how you behave with money can ultimately matter even more.
🔹 Wealth is about independence. Morgan distinguishes being rich from being wealthy by the freedom your financial resources give you over your time and decisions.
🔹 Not every return belongs in a spreadsheet. Peace of mind, stability, flexibility and sleeping well at night can have tremendous value even when they aren't mathematically optimal.
🔹 Lead by example with money. When teaching children about finances, Morgan believes everyday behavior can have more influence than lectures about what they should or shouldn't do.
Morgan Housel is the New York Times Bestselling author of The Psychology of Money, The Art of Spending Money, and Same As Ever. His books have sold over 12 million copies and have been translated into more than 60 languages.
He is a two-time winner of the Best in Business Award from the Society of American Business Editors and Writers, and winner of the New York Times Sidney Award. MarketWatch named him one of the 50 most influential people in markets. He's a partner at The Collaborative Fund and serves on the board of directors at Markel.
This episode is brought to you by Avantis Investors. With strategies designed around broad diversification, thoughtful implementation, daily oversight and low fees, Avantis helps investors say “and” instead of “or.” Talk to your advisor about Avantis and visit avantisinvestors.com.
This episode includes an advertisement by the sponsor. The advertisement does not constitute or imply an endorsement, recommendation or affiliation between the sponsor and Creative Planning.
(18:38) Harvey's journey from Wall Street to CEO of Carlyle
(28:17) The future of private markets and investing
(33:42) Private credit, diversification and long-term investing
(42:11) Geopolitics, national security and global markets
(44:19) Inflation, interest rates and portfolio strategy
(49:56) Leadership lessons and the future of private capital
🔹 Leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about building trust, making thoughtful decisions and learning through adversity.
🔹 Private markets continue to create opportunities for investors seeking diversification, innovation and long-term value.
🔹 Artificial intelligence will transform business, but human judgment, culture and leadership will remain competitive advantages.
🔹 The most successful leaders embrace lifelong learning, seek mentorship and invest in developing great teams.
Harvey Schwartz is the Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors at Carlyle, one of the world's leading global investment firms. Before joining Carlyle in 2023, he spent more than 20 years at Goldman Sachs, where he served as President and Co-Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Global Co-Head of the Securities Division. Harvey is also an advocate for mental health research and leadership development through his work with One Mind. He earned his BA from Rutgers University and his MBA from Columbia University.
This episode is brought to you by State Street Select Sector SPDR ETFs. Invest where you see opportunity with the 11 Select Sector SPDR ETFs. StateStreet.com
This episode includes an advertisement by the sponsor. The advertisement does not constitute or imply an endorsement, recommendation or affiliation between the sponsor and Creative Planning.
(00:00) Platon on growing up between London and a Greek village
(02:20) Dyslexia, running away from school and the corridor of no man's land
(05:30) Art school, contour drawing and discovering photography
(10:10) How a camera changes the dynamic in any room
(14:40) JFK Jr., George Magazine and the deal that launched a career
(19:48) Photographing President Clinton — and the moment that divided a nation
(28:34) Politics as the new religion and the crisis of polarization
(31:36) Why business leaders are the champions of our time
(33:39) Dustin Hoffman, 200 white roses and people power
(39:37) Photographing Putin — intimidation, the Beatles and a subliminal message
(45:20) Egypt, the Arab Spring and building a studio in Tahrir Square
(49:27) The Little Rock Nine and the photograph that hangs in the Smithsonian
(52:47) Clinton, Obama, Bush, Carter and Trump — the presidents compared
(1:02:20) The very first shoot: Anthony Hopkins, a panic attack and the lesson that changed everything
Key Takeaways
💎 True human connection requires going first — with honesty, openness and courage — regardless of who’s in the room.
💎 Power is a social construct, and the ability to see through it is what allows Platon to capture truth on film.
💎 Vulnerability isn’t weakness — it’s the only currency that creates real trust between people.
💎 Business leaders, not politicians, are the force most capable of pulling a polarized society back together.
About the Guest
Platon is one of the world's most celebrated portrait photographers, known for his iconic images of presidents, world leaders, activists and cultural figures. Born in London and raised between England and a small Greek village, Platon studied at Central Saint Martins before being discovered by John F. Kennedy Jr. for George Magazine. His work has appeared on the covers of TIME, The New Yorker, Esquire and Rolling Stone. His portrait of Putin is classified as extremist material in Russia — and sits on Putin's desk. He’s a passionate advocate for human rights, authentic connection and the power of curiosity over judgment.
(12:18) Vladimir Putin, NATO, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict
(17:13) Trump, Putin, and the Russia-Ukraine War: Condoleezza Rice on global conflict, NATO tensions, and why Putin refuses to back down
(19:14) National security, intelligence, and understanding global threats
(21:05) Leadership as a Black woman in government and diplomacy
(26:50) Israel, Palestine, and the challenges of peace negotiations
(27:25) China, globalization, and the future of world power
(35:20) Globalization, populism, and the changing world order
(39:54) Artificial intelligence, jobs, and the future workforce
(40:10) President George W. Bush and leadership during crisis
Key Takeaways
💎 Secretary Condoleezza Rice believes leadership starts with resilience, personal responsibility and refusing to see yourself as limited by circumstances.
💎 The aftermath of 9/11 fundamentally changed America’s national security infrastructure, intelligence coordination and global strategy.
💎 China’s rise, Russia’s aggression and the breakdown of globalization are reshaping international politics and economic systems.
💎 Rice believes the future of leadership will require balancing military strength, innovation, diplomacy and global cooperation.
This episode includes a paid advertisement purchased by a sponsor for placement on a Creative Planning podcast. The advertisement does not constitute or imply an endorsement, recommendation or affiliation between the sponsor and Creative Planning.
About the Guest
Condoleezza Rice, the 66th U.S. Secretary of State and current Tad and Dianne Taube Director of the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, is a political scientist, diplomat, professor and author who previously served as both United States Secretary of State and National Security Advisor under President George W. Bush. With decades of experience in foreign policy, global security, democracy and international relations, she remains one of the most influential voices in global leadership and world affairs.
This episode is brought to you by BlackRock. What if your portfolio could do more than invest for returns — what if it could help you keep more of what you earn? BlackRock’s Aperio tax-managed solutions are designed to help do just that. Learn more.
(13:16) Should everyday investors own private equity?
(16:58) Private credit, AI, and market opportunities
(23:45) AI, blockchain, tokenization, and the future
(25:46) Growing Franklin Templeton through acquisitions
(31:10) Developing future leaders
(35:30) Jenny’s vision for Franklin Templeton
Key Takeaways
🔹 Artificial intelligence will transform investing, productivity and financial services, but organizations must adapt quickly to keep pace.
🔹 Private equity and private credit provide investors with access to opportunities that increasingly exist outside the public markets.
🔹 Great leadership is built on strong teams, continuous learning, adaptability and a willingness to embrace change.
🔹 Technology, innovation and client-first thinking will shape the next generation of successful businesses.
About Jenny Johnson
Jenny Johnson is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Franklin Templeton, a global investment management firm overseeing approximately $1.7 trillion in assets. After beginning her career in the company's mail room and working across nearly every area of the business, she now leads one of the world's largest asset managers. Johnson is widely recognized for her expertise in leadership, artificial intelligence, private markets, technology and innovation and has been named one of the World's Most Powerful Women by Forbes.
(15:33) How Charles Schwab became an industry leader
(18:04) Blockchain, stablecoins, and the future of money
(19:36) Why Gen Z is changing investing
(22:00) AI, financial advisors, and the future of wealth management
(25:57) What’s next for Charles Schwab
Key Takeaways
🔹 AI will make financial advice more efficient, but trust, relationships and human judgment will remain essential.
🔹 Digital assets are becoming an important part of the investing landscape, even as their long-term future remains uncertain.
🔹 Younger investors are entering the markets earlier than ever, driving innovation across financial services.
🔹 Firms that simplify investing while putting clients first will continue to lead the future of wealth management.
About Rick Wurster
Rick Wurster is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Charles Schwab, one of the world's largest financial services firms, serving more than 30 million client accounts. Since becoming CEO, he has focused on expanding innovation, improving the client experience, embracing artificial intelligence and preparing Schwab for the future of digital assets, wealth management and financial advice. Before becoming CEO, Rick held numerous leadership roles across Schwab's investment, trading and wealth management businesses.
(39:23) The Morehouse College graduation gift that inspired millions
(42:22) Philanthropy, optimism and creating lasting impact
Key Takeaways
🔹 Enterprise software will evolve through AI rather than disappear, creating entirely new growth opportunities.
🔹 Professionals who learn to work alongside AI will have a significant advantage over those who resist it.
🔹 Successful investing requires adapting to technological change while maintaining disciplined, long-term thinking.
🔹 Optimism, continuous learning and intentional action remain some of the greatest competitive advantages in any career.
About Robert F. Smith
Robert F. Smith is the Founder, Chairman and CEO of Vista Equity Partners, one of the world's leading private equity firms focused exclusively on enterprise software, data and technology-enabled businesses. Widely recognized as one of the most influential investors in technology, Smith has helped transform hundreds of software companies while becoming a leading voice on artificial intelligence, innovation, business transformation and philanthropy. He is also known for paying off the student debt of the graduating class at Morehouse College, inspiring millions around the world.
