Ted Hesser Podcast

Today’s guest is Xavier Helgesen, a brilliant entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Enduring Ventures, a modern-day Berkshire Hathaway acquiring overlooked, cash-flowing businesses with the goal of holding them forever. Recorded during Enduring Ventures' annual shareholder gathering, Ted and Xavier discuss the philosophy and mechanics of permanent capital, the hidden pitfalls of venture capital and private equity, and the surprising power of owning simple, Main Street businesses.Xavier also shares lessons from his journey as a pioneering social entrepreneur, from building Better World Books into one of the world’s largest book resellers to founding Zola Electric, a solar energy company powering millions of lives across East Africa. They explore the complexities of balancing profit and purpose, why effective altruism falls short, and how Xavier’s experiences shaped his pivot toward strategic investing and entrepreneurship.If you’re interested in permanent capital, thoughtful investing, and practical insights into entrepreneurship, this conversation is packed with wisdom.Enjoy!

In this episode, I sit down with Mark Synnott—climber, writer, explorer—for a wide-ranging conversation about the Franklin Expedition and the deeper human drive to venture into the unknown. This may be the greatest survival tale never told. We talk about Mark’s journey through the Northwest Passage in search of clues, the myth of the open polar sea, and what Inuit oral history suggest really happened to Franklin and his men. We also get into Mark’s own expeditions—from remote climbs in Baffin to his quest to find Sandy Irvine’s body and the lost Everest camera. There’s a lot here about the psychology of adventure, the messiness of expedition dynamics, the tension between storytelling and truth, and what it means to raise a family while chasing risk.If you’re into exploration, obsession, and the blurry line between noble ambition and madness—this one’s for you.

Ted sits down with Kris Tompkins, longtime CEO of Patagonia and one of the world’s most influential conservationists. Kris shares her journey from building Patagonia with Yvon Chouinard to her transformative conservation work, rewilding millions of acres in Chile and Argentina alongside her late husband, Doug Tompkins.Discover her insights into the early days of Patagonia, groundbreaking conservation projects like Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park, and the rewilding of species in Argentina’s Iberá wetlands. Kris also reflects on her philosophy of life, conservation, and the power of teamwork in achieving lasting change.Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a true pioneer in environmental stewardship.

In this episode, Jim McKelvey, cofounder of Block Inc, delves into the critical role timing plays in both business and life, offers an insider’s look at Federal Reserve decision-making during economic crises, and unveils his plan to accelerate life-saving treatments through more efficient clinical trials. From entrepreneurial insights on leveraging machine learning for underwriting risk to his thoughts on wealth, frugality, and personal happiness, Jim’s perspectives are refreshingly down to earth and illuminating. Perfect for entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, and anyone eager to understand how new technologies reshape finance and medicine, this episode delivers unparalleled lessons on creativity, leadership, and disruption.

This episode is with Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, a leading authority on the science of happiness and positive psychology. Drawing on decades of pioneering research and personal experiences, Dr. Lyubomirsky reveals how cultural influences, gratitude, and kindness shape our well-being—even at the genetic level. Discover her strategies for setting authentic goals, freeing yourself from rumination, and harnessing the surprising power of money when spent meaningfully. We’ll also explore the promise of psychedelics in healing and the evolving role of AI and virtual reality in our pursuit of joy. Tune in for a thought-provoking, evidence-based roadmap to a richer, more fulfilling life

This episode is with Davis Guggenheim, the Oscar-winning director known for 'An Inconvenient Truth' and 'Waiting for Superman.' We dive into Davis's storied career, his insights into Hollywood, the art of storytelling, and the personal and professional challenges he's faced along the way. 02:10 Early Career and Influences11:43 Navigating Hollywood and Family Connections21:30 Training Day 32:05 Facing Setbacks and Finding New Paths44:43 An Inconvenient Truth01:01:13 The Challenges of 'Waiting for Superman' 01:07:33 Reflections on Filmmaking and Criticism 01:14:14 Access to Powerful Figures 01:21:14 The Future of Filmmaking and AI 01:27:11 Closing Thoughts and Advice

In this episode, I sit down with Chet Pipkin, the visionary founder behind Belkin International, a company that grew from humble beginnings in a garage to become a global, multi-billion dollar brand. Chet shares his extraordinary journey—how he turned a passion for solving connectivity issues in the early days of personal computing into global success story. We delve into the critical decisions that propelled Belkin’s success, including pioneering moves in global manufacturing, and the leadership philosophies that have guided Chet throughout his career. From navigating the challenges of globalization to his commitment to servant leadership and community service, Chet’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and the power of relationships. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a tech enthusiast, or someone curious about the human side of business, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a leader who built a multi-billion dollar brand from the ground up.

Ted sits down with world class futurist and microbiologist Andrew Hessel in this episode, to discuss the future of Bioengineering, and programming life from its most fundamental unit, DNA. They discuss the architecture of DNA, its parallels with computer systems, and the potential of writing DNA from scratch. Key topics include synthetic viruses, and the need for global biosecurity measures, the transformative potential of nanotechnology, individualized medicine, and precision treatments in revolutionizing cancer care and combating antibiotic-resistant infections. They also delve into the evolution of bioengineering, digitizing laboratory procedures, and creating synthetic organisms. Future prospects such as biofoundries, space colonization, and enhancing human capabilities through neural engineering are envisioned, emphasizing the importance of ethical frameworks, transparency, and global collaboration to harness these advancements safely.

In this episode Ted sits down with Leslie Odom Jr., the world-famous Broadway star known for his role as Aaron Burr in Hamilton. Leslie shares untold stories about his career choices, including walking away from a lucrative TV deal to be part of Hamilton's original cast. The conversation delves into his reflections on fatherhood, the meaning of love, and his recent roles in films like 'The Exorcism' and 'One Night in Miami.' Leslie also discusses how he balances his artistry across different mediums, the importance of loving oneself, and his perspectives on the American Dream and race. Don't miss this thought-provoking and heartfelt discussion with one of the most talented figures in the entertainment industry today.   00:00 Intro 04:18 Fatherhood and Parenting 12:01 The Song 'Loved' and Its Inspiration 23:31 Artistry and Suffering 28:03 Alchemy of Performance 38:41 Race & the American Dream 40:09 The Value of Work and Stability 42:30 Mentorship and Representation 43:57 The Impact of the Pandemic on Art 47:58 The Ephemeral Nature of Theater 53:02 Advice and Personal Growth 58:20 Understanding and Practicing Love 01:08:11 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

I sat down with Nedjip Tozun, co-founder and CEO of D.light Design, the world's most impactful solar company. They have powered over 170 million people, at the base of the world's economic pyramid, with solar electricity and lighting products. Nedjip and I discuss the trials and tribulations of D.light, we talk about his fascinating views on religion, which underpin the story of d.light, and we talk about the future of sustainable energy / geoengineering. Ned is a heavy hitter in the world of cleantech and silicon valley. Highly recommend this episode if you are curious about these subjects, about social impact businesses, or about one person's unique journey with religion.  00:00 Intro 04:26 The Miracle Shipment Story 06:26 Navigating Financial Crises 13:45 Mission-Driven Business Decisions 22:05 Capitalism and Social Impact 28:38 Personal Religious Journey 36:08 Rational Arguments for Faith 39:55 Starting D.Light 52:48 Science and Faith Compatibility 58:51 The Fine-Tuning of the Universe 01:03:44 The Possibility of Extraterrestrial Life 01:06:53 Formation of the Moon and Its Impact on Life 01:09:45 The Rarity and Value of Human Life 01:10:43 Exploring Life Beyond Earth 01:11:34 Climate Change and the Future of Energy 01:12:57 The Promise and Challenges of Fusion Energy 01:24:24 Geoengineering and Carbon Capture Innovations 01:33:14 Reflections on Leadership and Future Prospects

This episode was a real treat. Ben Lamm is the founder and CEO of Colossal Biosciences, the world's first de-extinction company. They are legitimately en route to bringing back extinct species, like the wooly mammoth, the thylacine and the dodo. We talk about all of that on this episode, along with broader observations of what these new age synthetic biology tools mean for the future of conservation, and, for the future of human health.  00:00 Introduction  08:08 Ethical Considerations 15:19 The Thylacine Project  27:30 Public Skepticism and Techno-Optimism 29:51 Balancing Technology and Nature 31:37 The Role of Beavers in Carbon Sequestration 33:24 Synthetic Biology vs. AI and Robotics 39:06 Elephants, P53 Protein, and Cancer Research 42:56 Advancements in Medical Therapeutics 49:21 Future Innovations and Ocean Exploration

Cory Richards, a renowned National Geographic adventure photographer, has lived a life full of highs and lows. He reached the pinnacle of the outdoor industry only to step back after a series of mental health challenges. I consider Cory to be a friend, a mentor, and a guide to healing from trauma in the modern world. This episode aims to share Cory's incredible story, detailed in his new memoir 'The Color of Everything'.

Peter Dering, founder and CEO of Peak Design, discusses his views on conscious capitalism. For the environment, for employees, and for customers. This is a case study in ethics, and successful brand building, in business.  00:00 Intro 04:08 Peak Design's History & Office Space 07:07 From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leader 14:27 Navigating Business Without Investors 26:29 Climate Neutral: A Deep Dive into Carbon Offsetting 39:59 Controversies of Carbon Markets 44:02 Addressing Greenwashing  47:36 PFAS 52:22 Future of Peak Design 01:10:20 Creative Employee Compensation Plans  01:15:54 The Power of Branding

Chris Burkard is a close friend, a mentor, and a legendary adventure photographer. He is also a devout latter-day saint. This episode is an exercise in podcast portraiture, a deep and insightful look into Chris's inner life.    01:33 Past Adventures. Journey to the Kurils.  10:44 Faith 21:26 Psilocybin. Protector and Caretaker Psychology.  45:06 Capitalism & Mormonism 50:30 Faith & Daily Life 54:50 Navigating Social Media 01:03:47 Open Net Salmon Advocacy Iceland 01:20:21 Raising Children in a Digital Age: 01:28:39 Relocating to Iceland for Family and Growth

In this episode, I sit down with renowned science writer David Quammen. We discuss the age of synthetic biology, tempered by ethical and practical considerations, and what it may mean for viruses, cancer & species conservation. David’s insightful, measured outlook is grounded in five decades of science writing, across dozens of books and hundreds of feature magazine stories.  Show Notes: 00:18 Introduction. 02:00 Contagious Cancer and Evolution 02:32 Virus Hunters & Zoonotic Spillover. 08:05 Bats: The Reservoir Hosts 12:30 Ethics & Engineering Viruses. 19:54 Viruses as Evolutionary Feature, not Bug. 25:29 Engineering Immunology 36:53 COVID-19 Origins and Vaccine Development 46:46 Individual Liberty vs Public Health 54:20 EV batteries & Congo Mining 57:12 Elephants Don’t Get Cancer 59:24 De-Extinction and Genetic Preservation 01:01:19 Conservation and Genetic Engineering 01:19:44 David’s Career

This episode delves into the complex interplay of skepticism and conviction in modern science, a theme vividly illustrated by Jacobson's career. Check out the podcast as we explore the dynamic and often contentious world of climate policy through the lens of Mark Jacobson's remarkable life. Mark Jacobson is a towering figure in the realm of climate policy. Jacobson's early work led to California's unique exemption from the EPA, allowing the state to set its own stringent CO2 standards for vehicles, which led to the progressive ratcheting up of standards across the US and the world. His groundbreaking research on Black Carbon, identifying it as the second most significant contributor to climate change, has shaped environmental strategies worldwide. Jacobson is also the intellectual force behind the Solutions Project, a popular initiative that united a diverse group of scientists, filmmakers, and actors to advocate for a future powered entirely by renewable energy. However, Jacobson's path has not been without its challenges. His approach, blending public education with science, has sparked debate within the scientific community. This tension climaxed when his work faced critical scrutiny from other academics in the prestigious National Academy of Sciences, leading to a controversial defamation lawsuit against the Academy.

Ted Hesser sits down with Wade Davis, a luminary in the world of ethnobotany, exploration, and cultural preservation. Wade shares his captivating journey from his early days at Harvard amidst the giants of botanical and psychedelic discovery to his deep dives into the Amazon and the mysteries of ancient plants. They discuss the profound impact of psychedelics, the importance of preserving vanishing cultures, and the serendipitous moments that have shaped Wade's life and career. From the tales of magic mushrooms to the intricacies of human-plant interactions, this conversation offers a deep reflection on the interconnectedness of humanity, nature, and the stories that bind us.

Mike Finkel is one of the most successful contemporary authors in the non-fiction genre. He has written three books, all of them New York Times Best Sellers, with two being sold as movie rights to big Hollywood studios and one made into a major motion picture by Brad Pitt's Production company.Mike is a raconteur who has worked for the world's top journalistic outlets. Mike was fired from the New York Times Magazine for creating a composite character of child cocoa plantation workers in West Africa. That event, and subsequent social opprobrium, almost ended his career. But Mike's persistence led him through a dark time and into a new life trajectory as a highly successful author. His latest book, The Art Thief, is the story of Stephan Brietweiser, who stole up to $2 bn, with a capital B, of art throughout Europe in the early 2000s. Like all his true crime subjects, Mike befriended Stephan and wrote the definitive work on the greatest art thief ever to have lived. His stories span the globe, with fascinating insights into human nature and the creative act balancing act of the non-fiction Novel.   🔥 HIGHLIGHTS 🔥: 📜 Mustang Memories: Relive Mike & Ted's captivating expedition in Mustang, Nepal. 💥 Adventures at the Edge: Whether it's confronting a tank in Afghanistan or threading the thin lines of conflict zones, Mike knows danger firsthand. 📓 Craft of Narratives: Dive into Mike's approach to storytelling for the crests of journalism. 😲 NYT & New Beginnings: The whirlwind journey from Mike's NYT exit to the allure of true crime. 📚 Tales That Push Boundaries 📚:

Victor Vescovo is an extraordinary explorer and former Navy intelligence officer. He's the only human in the history of our civilization to go to the bottom of every ocean (in a custom-made submersible), to the top of the tallest peaks on each continent, to the poles, and into Outer Space. He is, arguably, the most prolific explorer of our age. 🌍 His unique perspective on our world through exploring the tallest peaks, deepest oceans, and outer space. 🚀 His time serving as a Navy intelligence officer, where he specialized in the Pacific theater. His views on nuclear submarines, deterrence, and Chinese tensions with Taiwan are filled with insight. 💡 His advisory position and investment in Colossal, a genetics engineering company aiming to revive extinct species. 🌊 Asteroid mining versus deep sea mining. 💔 His personal experience with the Titan submersible tragedy and the lessons learned.