Clinically Inappropriate Obsessiveness and Open Mic Comedy Nights, Wei Lei, Chief Investment Strategist, BlackRock

Searching for Mana with Lloyd Wahed

The Searching for Mana show with Lloyd Wahed has featured several ‘one of a kind’ guests – and this show is no exception. Wei Lei is not only a global leader for one of the biggest companies on the planet, she is also a two-time mathematical Olympiad who enjoys karaoke sessions, ran a marathon without training for it and overcame her fear of public speaking by taking part in an open mic comedy night.

Clearly not one for half measures, Wei also says she is obsessive to the point of it being ‘clinically inappropriate’ – but also credits this with her ability to dive deep into matters of personal and professional importance. But this intensity is balanced by Wei’s humility, compassion and a mindset anchored in gratitude and collaboration. Music also plays an important role in Wei’s life and in this episode Wei and Lloyd discuss why it seems to be a common thread among founders and pioneers.

As Chief Investment Strategist at BlackRock, Wei is aware of the weight her role carries and discusses Blackrock’s approach to net zero as well as her view on the current market volatility. It’s a great episode – inspiring and entertaining, and not to be missed.

Episode highlights:

7.32 – Wei Li’s role at BlackRock

14.52 – What’s the skillset needed to do her job?

15.35 – The importance of building a diverse team

20.10 – The impact of having a rich cultural tapestry for Wei personally and at work

21.55 – The power of introverts

24.20 – BlackRock’s approach to NetZero and ‘disorderly volatility’

30.10 – EFTs and the importance of compounding

36.10 – Wei Li’s life – in the beginning

37.20 – Winning the gold Olympic medal for maths

38.20 – Being a ‘dragony’ parent

40.43 – Becoming a karaoke monster

42.15 – The universal language of music – and the link to maths and entrepreneurship

45.24 – Life at Cambridge University

47.41 – Leaning in to capabilities

49.30 – Lucky to have great mentors

53.45 – Wei Li’s life advice

58.07 – Overcoming a fear of public speaking via an open mic night at the comedy club

1.00.40 – What does Wei Li do to relax (it includes running a marathon without training)

1.05 – Will she follow Larry Fink to the White House?

1.10.20 – What does the future of work, finance and tech look like to her?

1.18.50 – Being borderline clinically inappropriate obsessive