Jim VandeHei readily admits that 25 years ago he was an unlikely candidate to be a future journalist and entrepreneur who would go on to moderate a presidential debate, dine in the Oval Office, and launch two successful media startups. His high school guidance counselor once told him that he wasn’t cut out for college, and he went on to confirm her belief, graduating with a 1.49 GPA from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, where he spent more time partying than thinking about the future. Somewhere along the way, however, VandeHei discovered his passion for journalism and politics—and everything changed.
Today, as the co-founder, former CEO, and executive editor of Politico, and the co-founder and current CEO of Axios, he shares what he learned about building a meaningful and successful career and life – no matter where you are starting from.
We are thrilled to have welcomed Jim VandeHei to share his philosophy and actionable strategies on how to bring richer meaning to our lives. During our conversation, VandeHei talks about how to live the good life as he draws from his recently released New York Times best seller, Just the Good Stuff: No-BS Secrets to Success (No Matter What Life Throws at You). This book serves as the guide VandeHei wishes someone had handed him when he was struggling to find his way. He imparts his insights on everything from finding a calling to building a team to navigating the realities of a changing workplace. He also talks about the characteristics of people we should emulate, values that bring out the best in people, hacks and habits that work, and the power of having a specific plan for making the most of your talents and opportunities.
As we head into the 2024 presidential election, VandeHei also provides his thoughts on the current political landscape and election dynamics. With his deep understanding of the media’s role in shaping public opinion, he discusses key trends, challenges, and what lies ahead in American politics.
Ultimately, VandeHei believes that our lives should be inspired by the Malawi term “Zotheka,” which means “anything is possible.” It is a belief system that has allowed him to cultivate the life he is living today, and one that he hopes to inspire in all of us.
Order a complimentary copy of Just the Good Stuff: No-BS Secrets to Success (No Matter What Life Throws at You) here.
