On with Kara Swisher

Why Melinda French Gates is Betting On Women in Politics, Business and Tech

58 snips
Apr 17, 2025
Melinda French Gates, an accomplished businesswoman and passionate advocate for women and girls, shares her journey of personal transformation and political activism. She discusses her memoir, 'The Next Day,' highlighting her shift from the Gates Foundation to her own philanthropic initiatives. Melinda emphasizes the urgent need for women's voices in A.I. and the impact of U.S. policy changes on global health. The conversation touches on maternal health, navigating public perception, and the importance of community engagement for future generations.
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ANECDOTE

Catherine Graham's Kindness

  • Melinda French Gates shares an anecdote about Catherine Graham driving her to an important meeting, highlighting Graham's generosity and support.
  • This story emphasizes the importance of timely arrivals and the surprising lengths some people go to help others.
ADVICE

Embrace Reinvention

  • Melinda French Gates encourages seeking opportunities for reinvention and growth, highlighting the benefits of embracing discomfort.
  • She emphasizes learning and adaptability, comparing it to learning a new language and drawing on her diverse experiences.
INSIGHT

Microsoft's Culture

  • Melinda French Gates describes Microsoft's culture as exciting but challenging, disliking the "boys debate club" atmosphere in management.
  • Despite considering quitting, she found success leading diverse teams by being herself, offering a different work culture.
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