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.

In this episode of Icons of Influence, host Hannah Hally explores the extraordinary evolution of Angelina Jolie — from Oscar-winning actress and global superstar to humanitarian leader, entrepreneur, and one of the most influential public figures of the 21st century.

Jolie’s journey is a masterclass in how celebrity, storytelling, and purpose can converge to create lasting influence. Rising to fame in the late 1990s with powerful performances in Girl, Interrupted, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, and Mr. & Mrs. Smith, she built one of the most recognisable brands in Hollywood. But unlike many stars, Jolie saw fame not as an end, but as a strategic platform — a tool she could use to shift conversations, build businesses, and shape global narratives.

Her influence extends far beyond film. Jolie transitioned from actress to director and producer, telling stories about war, trauma, and human rights in films such as In the Land of Blood and Honey and First They Killed My Father. She became a fashion icon, collaborating with brands like Louis Vuitton and Guerlain, and launched Atelier Jolie, a purpose-driven fashion venture focused on sustainability, ethical production, and craftsmanship. Each move was deliberate — reinforcing a brand that stood for strength, authenticity, and social impact.

But perhaps the most defining dimension of Jolie’s influence is her humanitarian work. As a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador and later a Special Envoy, she has spent over two decades advocating for refugees, survivors of conflict, and displaced communities. She has travelled to more than 60 countries, worked with governments and NGOs, addressed the United Nations, and co-founded the Preventing Sexual Violence Initiative (PSVI). Through these efforts, Jolie has leveraged her visibility to bring global attention to crises that might otherwise remain invisible — turning celebrity into advocacy, and media spotlight into policy pressure.

Jolie’s story is also one of resilience and vulnerability. Her openness about deeply personal issues — from her double mastectomy to mental health — has broken taboos and inspired millions. Her decisions around adoption, parenting, and activism have reshaped public perceptions of family, identity, and global responsibility. Even amid controversies — from custody battles to criticism of her activism — Jolie’s credibility has remained intact, anchored in authenticity and purpose.

From Hollywood to humanitarianism, Jolie’s influence operates on multiple levels — commercial, cultural, political, and deeply personal. Her story offers powerful lessons for leaders, founders, strategists, and storytellers:

• Fame is a platform, not a destination. Jolie shows how visibility can be repurposed into meaningful influence.
• Authentic storytelling builds trust. Her narrative resonates because it’s deeply human and unapologetically honest.
• Diversification strengthens impact. By expanding into directing, advocacy, and business, Jolie has built a multi-dimensional brand.
• Purpose multiplies power. When influence is rooted in mission, it becomes more sustainable and more impactful.
• Vulnerability is a strategic asset. Sharing personal stories can transform public discourse and deepen audience connection.

This episode explores not just Angelina Jolie’s career, but the strategic architecture of her influence.

Explore more episodes and resources at www.thebusinessbookclub.online.

In this episode of Icons of Influence, we examine Joe Rogan — a figure who exists at the intersection of entertainment, ideas, and controversy. More than a comedian or UFC commentator, Rogan has built a media empire and moved audiences. We explore:

• His early path: from stand-up stages to the UFC microphone, cultivating curiosity and credibility
• The landmark deals with Spotify — including a reputed $250 million renewal — and how he maintained editorial control through the shifts in podcast exclusivity
• His business ventures: Onnit (supplements & performance), merchandise, events, media infrastructure, live performances, studio and property investments
• The power of long-form conversation in building trust, influence, and brand
• How he manages risk: dealing with strong opinions, platform backlash, censorship debates, content moderation, and public scrutiny
• The tension between authenticity and responsibility — how one mistake can cost credibility, how being open invites criticism
• Lessons for creators and entrepreneurs: owning your narrative, diversifying revenue, being bold but ethical, balancing reach with care

We pull back the curtain on how Rogan’s influence works in practice — the deals, the conflicts, the strategies, and the legacy he’s actively creating.

Keywords: Joe Rogan, podcasting giants, monetizing influence, Onnit, podcast business deals, long-form interview, cultural influencer, brand control, media controversies, creative freedom, wellness entrepreneur, influence lessons

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.