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➡ Newsletter TheBoldWay

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Thank you to Tyler Brûlé for stopping by TheBoldWay!

Tyler is a living legend in journalism and media entrepreneurship. Founder of Wallpaper magazine and then the Monocle empire, he has succeeded in creating an independent, elegant, global, and deeply human media outlet — all outside of passing trends.

In this episode, he shares his extraordinary journey: from his beginnings in Canada to settling in Zurich, including a life-changing attack in Afghanistan. He opens up about his vision of leadership, his relationship with risk, his beliefs about social media, and invites us into his unique aesthetic world.

A rare, deep, and inspiring conversation — with one of the most influential (and discreet) figures in global media.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Tyler’s journey: from journalist to media entrepreneur (Wallpaper, then Monocle)
• The importance of aesthetics and consistency in every detail of a brand
• A bold and independent media vision: rejecting reliance on Instagram, investing in print and radio
• Branding through real-life and physical experiences (cafés, bookstores, events)
• Leadership through example, physical presence, and company culture
• The impact of a traumatic life experience (Afghanistan) on his perception of risk
• His vision of progress: daily discipline, continuous improvement, and constant curiosity

Timeline

00:00 — Introduction & interview setting: Zurich, Monocle HQ
03:24 — Tyler’s background: Canadian origins, American dream, calling as a journalist
07:06 — Overview of his two business pillars: Winkreative and Monocle
09:04 — Defining boldness and courage in business
15:18 — Risky beginnings of Wallpaper and Monocle, defying the digital status quo
20:43 — Criticism of social media, Instagram, and the value of direct audience connection
30:51 — The Monocle aesthetic: inspirations, attention to detail, obsession with comfort
38:12 — The art of networking: hospitality, Japanese rituals, attention to small gestures
49:09 — Leading by example, closeness with teams, hosting events with readers
59:24 — Long-term vision: a global media brand in print and audio, idea transmission, social role
1:13:56 — If he had to do it again: thoughts on education and career path
1:14:12 — Failures, learnings, and key career decisions
1:17:00 — Building an independent media brand in the face of industry giants
1:20:30 — How Monocle acts as a catalyst for change in cities
1:23:00 — How Monocle influences urban policy and decision-makers
1:26:00 — The editorial choices Monocle makes (or doesn’t make)
1:29:00 — The moral responsibility of independent media
1:31:30 — Closing tho