Ep:#76 Octopus Group’s Simon Rogerson on “outbehaving” the competition

What does it look like to build a company that not only outlives you, but also makes you feel good in the process? Can you make money and create a significantly positive impact on the planet at the same time? What is the return on being more human? Today I got to speak with Simon Rogerson, co-Founder and CEO of Octopus Group, a company that has invested $20 billion into many different companies in the last 23 years. He’s not only one of the sharpest and quickest minds I’ve had the pleasure to meet, but he’s also a really good guy.  His mission is simple: to invest in the people, the ideas and the industries that will change the world. Today he brings how he does this to life. Simon explains why Octopus Group will never be publicly owned.  He tells us the biggest lesson that he’s learned in 23 years of running Octopus. Let’s us in on the key interview question he asks to reveal who people really are.  And we get to hear two stories that bring to life the main two aspects of Octopus’ culture that make it possible for them to be an industry disruptor.  I have always believed that business can be a force for good, although many companies aren’t built to make it that right now. Simon brings to life how this is possible through his approach to business, and the inspiring work they are doing.  I adored this conversation – I think you’ll catch that from the energy. There is so much here.  So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Simon. And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. ⁠http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter⁠