Howard Schultz

This interview was recorded during Howard Schultz’s potential 2020 Presidential run. Please excuse the scratchy audio.

 

It’s undeniable the Starbucks mastermind, Howard Schultz, made one of the most iconic and loved brands in the world. More than that though, he brought the idea of the 3rd space, by inventing the concept of the American coffee shop. I asked him about success, heart, and about capitalism vs socialism.

We also dig into many of his “heart” decisions that investors find terrifying. In this Howard Schultz interview, I asked him about maintaining heart, amidst shareholder pressure.

 

 

 

Howard Schultz Interview

Everyone knows Starbucks is legendary in its efforts to make the world a better place. Starbucks’ benefits and perks include health insurance for part-time employees, college tuition reimbursement, stock options, and retirement benefits.

Schultz has told stories in multiple books about his fight to maintain Starbucks benefits, despite financial pressures. There is no denying Starbucks employees are treated extremely well. (Before my interview with Howard Schultz, I was contacted by a former Starbucks employee to make sure I passed on gratitude for the benefits he received when he worked there.)

Under Howard Schultz’s leadership, Starbucks is also a great global citizen, donating millions upon millions of dollars to charities, leading the food and beverage industry in their treatment of global coffee farmers. Starbucks’ treatment of coffee farmers by paying them well, and providing clean water to kids across the globe with their Ethos water project are well known. It’s a great story, but how did he convince his shareholders to maintain their world-class employee benefits and other big “heart” ideas of his?

In my interview with Schultz, he explained it wasn’t easy. He broke down his process and explained why business plans are necessary even for big heart ideas, when “gut feelings” won’t cut it. He also answers the most critical question we all have. Is Chemex better than a French Press?

 

Socialism VS Communism

Schultz is the epitome of the American dream. He grew up poor, in government-subsidized housing, but worked hard and made one of the most iconic brands in the world, while paying employees a fair wage, giving even part-time employees healthcare, and paying for college. Sadly many of his fellow Democrats have vilified his success.

He explains where capitalism has failed, why challenging social problems is the true recipe for success, and why we should never turn to socialism.

 

How Howard Schultz Kept His Heart

Read my full article on how Howard Schultz fought for great employee benefits. I break down key parts of my interview with him. It was a densely packed interview and I unpack the core ideas and how he convinces shareholders to maintain heart ideas. Make sure you listen to the full interview as well.

Howard Schultz Discusses Great Employee Benefits at Starbucks >