No. 91: Mellody Hobson

Episode Transcript

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What do you get when you combine financial brilliance with a passion for social change? The answer: Mellody Hobson, a woman who’s redefining what it means to be a leader in both business and philanthropy.

Hey, I’m Shae, a PhD candidate at Harvard, and today we’re spotlighting Mellody Hobson—a trailblazing force in finance who’s breaking barriers and building bridges in the corporate world.

Mellody Hobson’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Born in Chicago in 1969, she grew up in a working-class family, where money was often tight. But Mellody’s curiosity and determination set her apart from an early age. She earned a scholarship to Princeton University, where she graduated with a degree from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs. From there, she took the financial world by storm.

Hobson joined Ariel Investments, one of the largest Black-owned investment firms in the United States, as an intern and quickly rose through the ranks. By the time she was 31, she was named president of the company—a testament to her unparalleled leadership skills and financial acumen. Under her guidance, Ariel Investments grew exponentially, helping countless individuals and institutions build wealth through thoughtful and responsible investing.

But Mellody Hobson’s influence doesn’t stop at finance. She’s a powerful advocate for diversity and inclusion in corporate America, often speaking out about the need for more Black representation in boardrooms across the country. Hobson practices what she preaches, serving on the boards of major corporations like Starbucks and JPMorgan Chase, where she’s been instrumental in pushing for more equitable practices. In 2017, she became the head of the Economic Club of Chicago making her the first black woman to hold that position.

Here’s a fun fact that showcases Mellody’s unique impact: In 2021, she made history by becoming the first Black woman to chair the board of Starbucks, a role that underscores her commitment to steering one of the world’s largest companies toward a more inclusive future.

Mellody Hobson is proof that with vision and tenacity, you can change not just your own life but the world around you. If you’re inspired by her story, please rate this podcast 5 stars—it helps others discover these incredible stories. Follow me on social media for more content like this, and don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel to keep up with our journey through history. Together, we can keep these stories alive and thriving!