In this week’s episode, Sam Gyimah sits down with billionaire entrepreneur Manfredi Lefebvre D’Ovidio—a seasoned leader who has reshaped the cruise and luxury travel industries over five decades. From his early days learning the ropes alongside his influential father, to his bold, industry-redefining moves in acquiring cruise lines and expanding into diverse investments, Manfredi shares his first‐hand insights on overcoming geopolitical turbulence, embracing change, and seizing opportunities with speed and skill. The conversation spans the challenges posed by wars, pandemics, and shifting global trends, along with his thoughts on the future of business innovation and competitiveness. 

Host: 

Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners 

Producers: 

Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& 

Co-producer: Nicky Black 

Music composed by: 

Sophie Sirota 

For listener questions or business inquiries please email [email protected], and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email [email protected]. 

You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. 

Disclaimer: 

The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 

00:00 – Early Journey & Family Legacy 

Manfredi reflects on starting his career at 19, following in the footsteps of his innovative father, and outlines a 220-year family history that stretches back from Naples in the post-Napoleonic era. 

03:00 – Building a Maritime Empire 

Delve into the evolution from operating family shipping businesses to pioneering the cruise industry—from early ventures in ferry transport and maritime navigation, to the bold acquisition and turnaround of cruise lines. 

06:00 – Geopolitical and Economic Crosscurrents 

Discussion on how wars, supply chain disruptions, and the pandemic have shaped global travel.

09:00 – The Power of Speed & Skill 

Discover how manmade advantages—nimble decision-making backed by deep industry knowledge and well-organised capital—allowed Manfredi to seize opportunities that others overlooked, even in times of rapid change. 

11:00 – Global Trends & Future Disruptions 

Manfredi outlines the challenges faced by regions like Europe due to high energy costs and rigid labour markets, while looking ahead to emerging technologies.

13:00 – Reflections & Optimism 

Concluding reflections on adaptability, resilience, and the relentless pace of change in global business.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, Sam joins Lord Chris Patten at his London home for a discussion about the state of global democracy. Known as one of the big beasts of British politics, Chris has held senior roles in the cabinet, the EU and most notably, as the last governor of Hong Kong. He’s also been chancellor of Oxford University. The conversation focuses on the challenges of sustaining democracy, the rise of populism, the importance of truth, free speech and checks and balances.  Chris reflects on his personal experiences in negotiations with China, Russia, Iran and the EU. 

Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners  

Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black 

Music composed by Sophie Sirota 

For listener questions or business inquiries please email [email protected], and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email [email protected].  

You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. 

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed.  The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 

00:00 The Challenges of Sustaining Democracy 

02:58 The Rise of Populism and Economic Failures 

03:25 Political Truths and Voter Expectations 

06:08 International Relations and Diplomacy 

06:46 Iran's Nuclear Ambitions and Diplomacy 

10:15 Hong Kong and China's Ambitions 

24:11 Higher Education in the Crosshairs of Geopolitics 

25:23 The Importance of Free Speech in Universities 

30:04 Mass Higher Education and Its Challenges 

31:51 Developing Human Capital in the Age of AI 

33:41 Leadership and Choosing Advisers 

35:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Sam is taking a deep dive into global economics with Baroness Dambisa Moyo. From the importance of economic growth and the structural issues affecting it, to deglobalisation, populism and technology, the esteemed economist and author gives her appraisal of what is happening around the world and what comes next. 

Baroness Moyo and Sam also discuss how governments and businesses need to adapt to the shifting geopolitical landscape, what the opportunities are for investors and what the cuts to aid budgets could mean for Africa. 

Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners  

Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black 

Music composed by Sophie Sirota 

For listener questions or business inquiries please email [email protected], and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email [email protected].  

You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. 

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed.  The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 

00:00 Introduction to Geopolitics and Economics 

02:08 The Importance of Economic Growth 

02:55 Challenges Facing Major Economies 

04:29 The Role of Capital, Labour, and Productivity 

08:31 Impact of Globalisation and Populism and Trump 

12:32 Future of Global Economic Order 

14:51 Technological Disruption and Job Market 

16:34 Investor Strategies in a Changing World 

24:42 Short-Term Tactical Changes and Global Capital Flows 

26:03 Opportunities in Different Regions 

28:15 The Future of the US Dollar and Fiat Currencies 

34:17 China's Economic and Political Landscape 

39:05 The UK's Role in the Global Economy 

41:34 Challenges for Emerging Markets and Development Finance 

45:48 The Interplay Between Politics and Economics 

48:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of 'Geopolitics of Business,' host Sam Gyimah talks with Ida Tin, the entrepreneur who coined the term FemTech and developed the period-tracking app Clue, and Dan Vahdat, CEO of Huma, a remote healthcare platform that leverages AI.  

Ida discusses FemTech's impact on women's health and its struggle for recognition and funding, while Dan explores the transformative potential of AI in healthcare. Both guests share their insights on building successful tech companies in Europe, navigating venture capital challenges, and envisioning a future where technology creates healthier societies. 

These recordings were made in collaboration with our partners at FII Priority Europe. 

Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners  

Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black 

Music composed by Sophie Sirota 

For listener questions or business inquiries please email [email protected], and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email [email protected].  

You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. 

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed.  The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 

00:00 Introduction to Women's Health and Economy

00:15 Meet the Visionaries: Ida Tin and Dan Vahdat

00:34 The Predictability of Heart Attacks

00:42 Different Approaches to Health Tech Business

02:14 The Concept of Fem Tech

05:52 Challenges in Fem Tech Funding

08:28 Building a Global Fem Tech Company

15:09 The Future of Fem Tech and AI

18:00 Europe as a Hub for Health Innovation

20:16 Political Leadership and European Vision

20:49 Challenges of Building Companies in Europe

22:14 A Vision for Europe's Future

23:35 Introduction to Dan Vahdat and Huma

23:55 Huma's Mission and Healthcare AI

25:28 Scaling Challenges in Healthcare

26:41 AI's Role in Healthcare Transformation

29:59 Global Disparities in AI and Healthcare

32:40 Entrepreneurial Landscape and Geopolitics

35:12 Government's Role in Innovation

39:47 Ethics and Future of AI in Healthcare

40:31 Huma's Future Plans and Conclusion

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Sam Gyimah is joined by Lord Gerry Grimstone — former UK Investment Minister and a key figure behind the 1980s privatisations that reshaped the British economy. From transforming state assets under Thatcher to chairing Barclays and Standard Life, Grimstone shares insider lessons on reform, regulation, and the realities of attracting investment. They explore what it will take to fix UK plc, unlock growth, and navigate an increasingly uncertain global economic landscape.

Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners  

Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black 

Music composed by Sophie Sirota 

For listener questions or business inquiries please email [email protected], and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email [email protected].  

You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. 

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, host Sam Gyimah sits down with Stefano Pontecorvo, President of Italian defence and aerospace giant Leonardo and former ambassador to NATO. They explore the shifting landscape of global defence investment, why Europe must catch up with U.S. spending, and the end of the post-Cold War peace dividend. Plus: investment opportunities, rising “neo primes” or challenger defence companies, and how the private and public sector can work together. 

Recorded in collaboration with FII at FII Priority Europe 2025.

Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners  

Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black 

Music composed by Sophie Sirota 

For listener questions or business inquiries please email [email protected], and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email [email protected].  

You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. 

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this first episode of our new series, host Sam Gyimah is in conversation with Richard Attias, Chair of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) – a nonprofit foundation with an investment arm, backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia.  

Richard has the ear of world leaders, has built FII into the world’s leading investment forum and has strong opinions on the global economy. He talks to Sam about the power of conversation and inclusivity to solve the world’s problems and shares his thoughts on where the smart money is being invested. 

Host: Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners  

Producers: Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& Co-producer Nicky Black 

Music composed by Sophie Sirota 

For listener questions or business inquiries please email [email protected], and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email [email protected].

You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. 

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the show we explore moonshots and artificial intelligence with Astro Teller, the co-founder of and CEO of X, Alphabet's moonshot factory, which is responsible for inventing and launching breakthrough technologies.

Teller is a believer in rethinking how companies innovate and solve what seem like unsolvable problems. He and host Sam Gyimah have a wide ranging conversation on big tech, AI, regulation, and big ideas in business.

The Geopolitics of Business is a show by Sam Gyimah, produced by FP Studios. Views and opinions expressed on the podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Foreign Policy, its affiliates, or any institution Sam Gyimah is associated with. Investment carries risk. We recommend individual investors consult with an independent financial advisor before making any investment.  

For listener questions or business inquiries please email [email protected]. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the show host Sam Gyimah explores Britain’s economy and place in the world post-Brexit with two "big beasts" of British politics of economics. First Sam speaks with Lord Michael Heseltine, former Deputy Prime Minister of Great Britain - a titan of British Politics for over half a century - and one of the few Conservative voices who spoke out against Brexit. Then Sam gets additional insights from Lord Jim O’Neil, an Independent Member of the House of Lords, former UK Treasury Minister, and former Chairman of Goldman Sachs Asset Management.

The Geopolitics of Business is a show by Sam Gyimah, produced by FP Studios. Views and opinions expressed on the podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Foreign Policy, its affiliates, or any institution Sam Gyimah is associated with. Investment carries risk. We recommend individual investors consult with an independent financial advisor before making any investment.  

For listener questions or business inquiries please email [email protected]. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we dive into U.S. politics with Paul Ryan, the former speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. In a wide-ranging interview with host Sam Gyimah, the two discuss the current state of American democracy and its impact on the world, various business scenarios related to the outcome of the 2024 U.S. elections, and why in today’s complex world, multinational CEOs need to think like politicians and be up to speed on issues such as trade, immigration, and the so-called culture wars.

The Geopolitics of Business is a show by Sam Gyimah, produced by FP Studios. Views and opinions expressed on the podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Foreign Policy, its affiliates, or any institution Sam Gyimah is associated with. Investment carries risk. We recommend individual investors consult with an independent financial advisor before making any investment.  

For listener questions or business inquiries please email [email protected]. You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.