They’re two of the most brilliant innovators of our time, and back in 2013 both Sir Richard Branson and Elon Musk appeared in a very special Google Hangout to discuss the topic of entrepreneurship.
In an hour-long discussion with Yonca Brunini, Senior Director of Marketing for Google in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, the pair discuss a range of topics, from their personal journeys, to talent management and the development of budding entrepreneurs.
It also highlights the differences between them. Anyone who has seen an interview with Musk before know how awkward and yet fiercely knowledgeable he can be when discussing his work, while Branson’s years in the spotlight shows as he casually but cleverly details his points.
It’s one of the most fascinating videos of its kind. Take a look.
For viewers who want to skip to certain topics, here is a list of what’s discussed:
2:25 – Advice to budding entrepreneurs.
6:30 – Why innovation is centralised in specific areas of the world, such as Silicon Valley.
9:27 – How Branson battled big competition in the form of British Airways.
12:45 – How to deal with failure.
18:48 – Business as a force for good.
22:23 – The basis for Musk’s Hyperloop.
28:20 – How to keep disruptors focused on the mission.
30:47 – Branson on changing the world through entrepreneurship.
33:06 – How Musk manages to keep focused on so many projects without losing steam.
38:12 – On getting through tough times in business.
40:38 – How Branson evaluates the criteria of proposals put forward to him.
42:50 – How big companies should support entrepreneurship.
46:02 – How to manage and retain great talent.
49:48 – How to change the world without letting the world change you.
52:20 – What the future holds for Musk.