In this hard-hitting episode of Icons of Influence, Hannah Hally explores the story of Donald J. Trump — one of the most recognisable and polarising figures in modern business and politics.

From real estate scion to global brand, reality TV star to President of the United States, Trump’s trajectory shows how brand, visibility, and controversy can become the foundations of power.

We’ll cover:

• The origins of Trump’s business empire and how he turned a family firm into a brand worth billions
• The “Trump” name as a licensing powerhouse — how perception often outweighed performance
• The fusion of business, media, and politics — and the conflicts, scrutiny, and advantages it created
• Why controversy and polarisation became strategic tools for influence
• The lessons leaders and entrepreneurs can learn about narrative control, risk tolerance, brand resilience, and media dominance

This is an unfiltered look at how influence is built, monetised, and weaponised — and why brand power, once created, can outlive the ventures that gave birth to it.

Keywords: Donald Trump, Trump business, Trump brand, political branding, personal brand strategy, business influence, branding lessons, polarising leaders, media influence, brand power, Icons of Influence, business podcast

Hosted by Hannah Hally, The Business Book Club brings together three empowering podcast series — 5-Minute Book Summaries, Icons of Influence, and Leadership Unpacked — sharing practical lessons, success stories, and leadership insights from the world’s most inspiring thinkers. Explore more episodes and resources at www.thebusinessbookclub.online. Visit thebusinessbookclub.online to explore every episode, join our leadership community, and grow your business mindset.