Good Bad Billionaire

Summary

How did they get so rich, and does it actually make them good? In Good Bad Billionaire, BBC Business Editor Simon Jack and author Zing Tsjeng pull back the curtain on the world’s wealthiest people to explore the stories behind the bank accounts. Whether it is the athletic dominance of Cristiano Ronaldo and Roger Federer, the digital-age capitalism of MrBeast, or the cinematic empire of Steven Spielberg, each episode breaks down the journey from ambition to nine-figure success. This isn't just a dry look at balance sheets. Simon and Zing investigate how these figures built their empires, looking at the savvy negotiations, relentless work ethics, and strategic branding that separate the millionaires from the billionaires. From the regulatory battles of tech innovators like Luana Lopes Lara to the self-managed brilliance of icons like Beyoncé, the hosts analyze the motivations that drive the planet’s most influential leaders. Each episode culminates in a playful, unscientific scorecard where the hosts weigh their legacy, power, and controversies to reach a verdict. Are these global icons heroes, villains, or simply billionaires? It is an engaging, insightful, and often surprising look at the people who shape the way we live, work, and consume today. Tune in to hear the human side of extreme wealth and decide for yourself where these giants belong on the spectrum of good and bad.

Updated Jul 6, 2026