Best Brian "Maze Podcasts (2025)

1
3rd Wheel Potters: Rob Wallace 58:30

Play Pause

20h ago58:30

58:30

Join us as we sit down with Rob Wallace of Wallace Woods Ceramics, a member of the 3rd Wheel Potters collective alongside Eli Akins and Preston Tolbert. This past summer, the trio completed an artist residency at Mirai, navigating the challenges of Mount Rainier and exploring new ways to merge ceramics with the art of bonsai. In this episode, Rob s…

1
185: RIT Capital Partners: Global, Unconstrained, Undervalued? A Conversation with Maggie Fanari (RIT CEO) 41:54

7d ago41:54

41:54

Founded in 1971 as the Rothschild Investment Trust, RIT Capital Partners PLC, continues today with a mandate to preserve and grow capital across generations through a multi-asset, global and unconstrained strategy. As one of the UK’s largest investment trusts, with total assets of approximately £4bn (over 20% of which is owned by family members), R…

1
From Summer Survival to Live Streaming Revival 33:57

8d ago33:57

33:57

This summer at Mirai was one for the books—long, hot days, intense sun, and plenty of lessons in resilience and proactive care. From keeping trees thriving under extreme heat to experimenting with new techniques and species, we’ve seen what it takes to grow, adapt, and evolve in the garden. Now, as we step into fall, the season brings fresh opportu…

1
Episode 94: The industry scoop from Shoptalk, Groceryshop, and Velocity 51:56

14d ago51:56

51:56

In this special episode of Retail Sound Bites, we unpack the most compelling themes and takeaways from three powerhouse industry events—Shoptalk, Groceryshop, and Velocity. Hosts Barry Thomas and Rachel Dalton are joined by two of Kantar’s leading voices in shopper intelligence: Leigh O'Donnell, Head of Shopper and Category Insights, and Julie Crai…

1
Episode 93: The forces shaping consumer demand with Oksana Sobol of Clorox 46:38

22d ago46:38

46:38

“Smaller households mean different product configurations, different product features, different ways of taking them to market… Even the fact of the aging population emphasizes certain categories and new benefits that these older consumers will desire. So, these forces point to new pockets of opportunity.” In this episode of Retail Sound Bites, we …

1
Episode 92: NeuroAI & The Future of Consumer Choice with Dr. A. K. Pradeep 47:10

29d ago47:10

47:10

What happens when neuroscience meets AI in the world of CPG? We sat down with Dr. Pradeep, CEO of Sensory AI and a pioneer in NeuroAI, to explore how the nonconscious mind and large language models are transforming innovation, marketing, and product development. 🎧 In this episode, you’ll hear: Why “the action is in the nonconscious”—and how uncover…

1
184: From Westminster to Silicon Valley: A Connected World at Risk - Sir Nick Clegg on threat to Global Connection in the Age of AI & Political Conflict. 1:18:49

1M ago1:18:49

1:18:49

It’s not every guest who would admit in their new book, with brutal honesty, “I’ve been vilified, satirised, protested against- a hate figure both on left and right.” But it is also uncommon, if not without precedent, for someone who has led their political party, been deputy Prime Minister for 5 years, to then re-invent themselves, chameleon-like,…

1
183: How Good of a Communicator Are You? Messaging, Reputation, Trust & Strategy in the Age of AI - With Jen Prosek, CEO and Founder of Prosek 52:18

1M ago52:18

52:18

Today’s episode started as “Good Investor, Poor Communicator”, but as we researched this topic ahead of the conversation it became a bigger theme than simply, why at times, great investment managers are often less effective communicators. In this conversation, we explore how communication is changing; first in the asset management community as firm…

1
Episode 91: Unlocking new revenue growth in healthcare with Soda Health 47:00

2M ago47:00

47:00

Personalization, engagement, and “food as medicine” programs are shaping the future of preventive care. This episode features a conversation with Jared Childs and Julie Fleisher from Soda Health; a company focused on improving access to preventive healthcare through benefits platforms. Barry Thomas and Rachel Dalton sat down with Jarden and Julie t…

1
182: Private Credit: Hype, Hazard, or the Next Big Thing in Long-Term Growth? With Huw Van Steenis, Vice Chair of Oliver Wyman. 51:42

2M ago51:42

51:42

When someone speaks with a deep of understanding of the banking and finance systems, is widely respected, and then expresses a strong but debatable view, about a developing asset class, we think it’s important to hear that voice and to challenge and distil its key messages. So in this episode we welcome back a former guest who appeared on the MMP i…

1
Art, Science, and Bonsai with Brock Arvesen 1:44:34

2M ago1:44:34

1:44:34

We introduce Brock Arvesen, one of the new faces at Mirai. Splitting his time between Mirai and the Pacific Bonsai Museum, Brock brings a perspective shaped by both worlds. In this episode, he joins us for a wide-ranging conversation on art, nature, and bonsai. Together we dive into the aesthetics of the craft as well as the science that grounds it…

1
181: Wisdom From the Battle Hardened: Timeless Life & Career Insights from Top Global Executives 11:56

2M ago11:56

11:56

Enjoy a variety of career tips & life lessons from finance leaders in this compilation special. This episode brings together some of the most insightful lessons and perspectives we’ve gleaned from past guests, covering everything from life wisdom to industry-specific strategies. You’ll hear from an extraordinary lineup, including Peter Frankopan, R…

1
Design in Collaboration with Thomas Nevar 1:31:22

2M ago1:31:22

1:31:22

We sat down with artist, designer, and creative director Thomas Nevar—a long-time creative and collaborator with Mirai. Together, we explore the intersection of art and bonsai, unpacking the motivations, inspirations, and ideas that shape their work. From the shared language of design to the pursuit of meaning in creative practice, this conversatio…

1
Episode 90: Navigating Beauty’s Retail Maze with Brian King of RoC Skincare 46:45

2M ago46:45

46:45

Agility drives challenger brand success in traditional retail – and the same holds true in beauty. Barry Thomas and Rachel Dalton just wrapped an inspiring conversation with Brian King, chief customer officer at RoC Skincare, on Episode 90 of Retail Sound Bites. Brian shares his journey from leading teams at CPG legacy brands to scaling a challenge…

1
S5EP90 Guided Quail Hunting in New Mexico with Bob King of Santa Fe Guiding Company 1:15:08

3M ago1:15:08

1:15:08

Send us a text In this episode of Amaazen Outdoors, we’re excited to announce a new partnership with Bob King of Santa Fe Guiding Company. Join us as we dive into what makes New Mexico a prime destination for wild quail hunting. Bob shares his expert insights on the local terrain, hunting strategies, and what hunters can expect from this season’s g…

1
Meet Brandon Roberts: Mirai’s New Apprentice 1:33:10

3M ago1:33:10

1:33:10

Brandon Roberts joins us at the very beginning of his apprenticeship—already having demonstrated exceptional commitment with a six-hour round trip, twice a week, for three months, just to study bonsai at Mirai. In this open and thoughtful conversation, we explore the meaning of apprenticeship: its gravity, its rewards, and the vulnerability of shar…

1
180: “News of Our Demise Has Been Greatly Exaggerated.”  Why the City of London Remains a Globally Potent Force - With Sir Alastair King, Lord Mayor of the City of London 35:21

3M ago35:21

35:21

Has the demise of London's leading financial services been "greatly exaggerated", and does the underlying evidence tell a very different story? In this interview, held at Mansion House in the historic City of London financial district, the Right Honourable Alastair King (696th Lord Mayor of the City of London) explains his view that the UK enjoys a…

1
Episode 89: Driving discovery in commerce with Charlotte Harris 47:03

3M ago47:03

47:03

Traditional ecommerce and social commerce are diverging, with social commerce platforms like TikTok Shop showing significant growth and engagement. Hear from Charlotte Harris, senior analyst at Kantar, as she walks through discovery-led journeys through social media, modern retail activations, changing shopper expectations, and more with hosts Barr…

1
179: Unlocking Global Real Estate Opportunities: Perspectives on Risks & Returns (With Brian Kingston, CEO of Brookfield Real Estate) 48:48

3M ago48:48

48:48

Economist John Stuart Mill observed that “landlords grow rich in their sleep". Yet, as evidenced by the failure over the years of many real estate businesses, success is also highly dependent on entry price, debt levels and execution. Brookfield, based in Toronto, has developed over 120 years into one of the world’s largest alternative investment m…

1
The Art and Elegance of Kusamono with Young Choe 1:13:29

3M ago1:13:29

1:13:29

We reconnect with the incomparable Young Choe—artist, pioneer, and one of the hardest working creatives in the world of kusamono. Reflecting on our first-ever Kusamono Intensive at Mirai, Young shares insights from the three-day workshop that brought five dedicated students into the world of contextual planting like never before. Together, we explo…

1
S5EP89 Dennis with Aspen Thicket Grouse Dogs 1:40:18

3M ago1:40:18

1:40:18

Send us a text 🎙️ Amaazen Outdoors Podcast — Episode 89 "Against the Grain: GSPs, Grouse, and the Bonasa Bonanza" Guest: Dennis of Aspen Thicket Grouse Dogs In Episode 89, we sit down with Dennis, the dedicated breeder, guide, and conservationist behind Aspen Thicket Grouse Dogs. Known for doing things a little differently, Dennis shares his unique…

1
S5EP88 Jessica and David with Paddlefish Adventures and Treehouse Studio 1:20:27

4M ago1:20:27

1:20:27

Send us a text 🎙️ Amaazen Outdoors Podcast — Episode 88 Guests: Jessica and David of Paddlefish Adventures & Treehouse Studios In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Jessica and David—co-founders of Paddlefish Adventures in St. Croix Falls, WI, and creative force behind Treehouse Studios in Osceola, WI. 🎨 Jessica shares her passion for art and…

1
Episode 88: What's eating retail with Kevin Coupe 50:58

4M ago50:58

50:58

There are three things that retailers must do to create stronger connections with shoppers: when the customer walks in the store, make them smile, make them hungry, and do what the competition can’t or won’t do. Hear from Kevin Coupe, author and prime storyteller at morningbeatnews.com, as he highlights several pressing issues in retail today, incl…

1
178: The Silk Roads: A Decade On - Peter Frankopan, Professor of Global History at Oxford, on the Changing World Order 1:15:53

4M ago1:15:53

1:15:53

Peter Frankopan is a Professor of Global History at Oxford, and author of The Silk Roads. His work has been both profound and enduring, with the book being translated into more than 45 languages and selling nearly 3 million copies worldwide. The updated version has just been published. In this conversation, Peter reflects on the potent forces at wo…

1
Episode 87: The view from Cannes with Andy Murray 59:49

4M ago59:49

59:49

Great creativity requires constraints. The presence of media, data, and technology partners at events like Cannes creates new opportunities and constraints that enhance creative culture. Hear from Andy Murray, Founder & CEO of bigQuest Advisory, Inc., as he explores emerging technology, deepening consumer engagement and insights, and what’s next fo…

1
Beyond Form: Architecture, Bonsai, and the Creative Mind with Gus Lynch 1:04:24

4M ago1:04:24

1:04:24

In this long-anticipated conversation, we welcome architect Gus Lynch of the renowned firm Olson Kundig to Asymmetry. What begins as a dialogue about architecture unfolds into something far more expansive—an exploration of creativity, design, and the unexpected intersections between built environments and the living art of bonsai. As a student at M…

1
177: The Courtship of Investment Allocators & Managers: Inside iConnections - With Ron Biscardi 55:49

4M ago55:49

55:49

If you are an asset allocator, what is the most effective way to widen your lens on identifying potential investment managers? And if you are an investment manager, how can you be more effective in meeting some of those key allocators who might transform your business? In April 2020, Ron Biscardi launched iConnections, whose platform allows manager…

1
S5EP87 Ryan With The Upland Social Podcast 1:16:07

4M ago1:16:07

1:16:07

Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with Ryan, the voice behind The Upland Social podcast. Ryan shares the story behind starting his own podcast and how his love for bird dogs, upland hunting, and faith all intersect. We dig into what fuels his passion, why he felt called to create content in the upland world, and the deeper meaning he find…

1
Cut Through Red Tape: Start Your Business Today 46:35

4M ago46:35

46:35

Tired of bureaucratic barriers crushing your entrepreneurial dreams? Join Frank Tumminello and Mark Cabrera as they decode the hidden roadmap to business launch, revealing how to navigate entity formation, dodge compliance landmines, and transform your side hustle into a thriving enterprise. Tune in to learn the insider strategies that turn paperwo…

1
Family Office Accounting: From Spreadsheets to Smart Tech with Ben Taylor 24:29

5M ago24:29

24:29

Tired of drowning in spreadsheets and compliance chaos? This episode we chat with Ben Taylor of Soft Ledger and he reveals how family offices can revolutionize their financial management through cutting-edge technology. Learn how to consolidate multi-entity accounting, slash reporting time, and transform manual processes into strategic insights. Di…

1
176: Beyond the Silk Roads: Middle Eastern Venture Investing - With Noor Sweid, Founder and Managing Partner of Global Ventures 49:06

5M ago49:06

49:06

Today we welcome one of the Middle East’s most successful angel investors and venture capitalists, listed in 'FORBES 100 Most Powerful Business Women 2025'. Noor Sweid explains her journey, from early career in management consultancy and relocating to Dubai, followed by growing and listing a business on the London Stock Exchange and NASDAQ Dubai in…

1
Episode 86: Tariffs, tariffs, tariffs, with David Marcotte and Doug Hermanson 43:30

5M ago43:30

43:30

Is volatility our new normal? As tariff policies change frequently, uncertainty is likely to be the new normal for the foreseeable future, making long-term planning and decision-making more challenging. Hear from Kantar’s Doug Hermanson and David Marcotte as they join Barry Thomas and Rachel Dalton on episode 86 of Kantar’s Retail Sound Bites to di…

1
175: "The Consultant’s Edge" - Are Investment Consultants Indispensable? With Michael Manning, CEO of NEPC 49:48

5M ago49:48

49:48

From the 1950s onwards, the foundations of investment consulting were laid, as pension funds and institutional investors sought professional guidance on asset allocation and portfolio management. This was enhanced in the 1960s & 70s by the introduction of Modern Portfolio Theory by Harry Markowitz and the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) by Willi…

1
174: Money Maze Podcast Corporate Trailer 2:46

5M ago2:46

2:46

Through direct, entertaining & insightful interviews with masters of the real life money maze, we hope to learn about different approaches to allocating capital, making business decisions and navigating the pitfalls that line the paths to prosperity. Each episode, with invite leading figures from the investment management and finance sector onto th…

1
Episode 85: Health and wellness trends in commerce with Leigh O'Donnell and Amar Singh 56:03

5M ago56:03

56:03

The drug channel in the US is undergoing significant changes, with CVS and Walgreens trying to reposition themselves as health and wellness destinations but facing challenges such as store closures and shopper shifts to other channels. Hear from Kantar’s Amar Singh and Leigh O’Donnell as they join Barry Thomas and Rachel Dalton on episode 85 of Ka…

1
S5EP86 Public Land Sell Off With The Pubic Land Advocate 1:33:06

5M ago1:33:06

1:33:06

Send us a text In this episode, we welcome John, widely known as The Public Land Advocate, to discuss a critical and timely issue facing the outdoor community: the federal government's recent proposal to sell off up to 500,000 acres of public land. We dig into what this means for hunters, anglers, hikers, conservationists, and anyone who values acc…

1
173: The End of US Equity Dominance? With Chris Wood, Global Strategist and Author of 'Greed and Fear' 46:54

5M ago46:54

46:54

Chris Wood, former guest and highly respected global strategist, recently made a bold prediction, namely that the US stock market has reached its all-time relative peak, similar to Japan in 1989. His recent commentaries include one describing Trump’s “Liberation Day” as “Impoverishment Day” and that Trump is the “Bull in the China Shop”. In this co…

1
S5EP85 Ben Brettingen onX Hunt & Board Member of Ruffed Grouse Society 1:10:06

6M ago1:10:06

1:10:06

Send us a text In this special 85th episode, we welcome back Ben Brettingen of onX Hunt, who now brings a fresh perspective as a newly appointed Board Member of the Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS). We dig into Ben’s vision for the future of RGS and where he believes he can make the biggest impact. Topics include: Ben’s new role on the RGS board and wha…

1
Episode 84: Creating customer value with Julie Hamilton 1:03:40

6M ago1:03:40

1:03:40

Consumers and customers must remain at the heart of every decision, regardless of your industry. Hear from Julie Hamilton, former Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Global Sales at Diageo PLC, as she joins Kantar’s Barry Thomas and Rachel Dalton on episode 84 of Kantar’s Retail Sound Bites to discuss customer value creation, world-class customer …

1
The Impact of Change with Dominic Maze 1:22:29

6M ago1:22:29

1:22:29

We sat down with Dominic Maze, Environmental Regulatory Coordinator for the City of Portland, for a conversation that took us places we never expected. What began as an introduction turned into a deep dive into the evolving environmental challenges we’re all facing. From Portland-specific issues to the broader implications of pests, diseases, and e…

1
172: Heroes or Villains? The Shrinking World of Shorting - With Carson Block, Founder of Muddy Waters 1:06:35

6M ago1:06:35

1:06:35

Economic theory suggests that when competition decreases, remaining firms may have more market power, which can lead to increased opportunities to expand, innovate, or capture a larger market share. Does that analogy apply to the world of shorting? And even if you are considered one of the best in the business, can you stay afloat with a rising tid…

1
Episode 83: Leadership, career progression, and finding growth with Cathy and Stephen Horgan 53:32

6M ago53:32

53:32

Adaptability, collaboration, and authenticity are traits that can get you far as a professional and leader. Hear from Cathy Horgan, foodservice and on-premise lead for OLIPOP, and Stephen Horgan, co-founder of InterContinental Beverage Capital, as they join Kantar’s Barry Thomas and Rachel Dalton on episode 83 of Kantar’s Retail Sound Bites to disc…

1
Celebrating 15 Years of Mirai 58:56

7M ago58:56

58:56

The 15th anniversary of Mirai marks a milestone in an ongoing journey of growth, creativity, and transformation. What began as a vision has become a dynamic ecosystem—shaped by a dedicated team, an ever-evolving facility, and a community that continues to expand the boundaries of bonsai. This episode honors the shared effort and collective spirit t…

1
171: From Triumph to Trauma: The Dramatic Investment Arc of Neil Woodford, Founder of Woodford Investment Management 1:21:15

7M ago1:21:15

1:21:15

Some of our conversations are deliberately different, and the man I interview here has cost me a lot of money! I also consider him a friend and somebody whose perspective I have valued. It could be said that Neil Woodford, CBE, has had a career of two halves, the first of which encompassed extraordinary investment success at Invesco Perpetual and t…