Interviews
Watch videos of Robert F. Smith’s interviews, speeches and panel discussions on topics ranging from his philanthropic goals to uplifting underserved communities and the future of the digital economy.
Videos
Robert F. Smith, the Founder, Chairman and CEO of Vista Equity Partners (Vista), was interviewed by Andrew Ross Sorkin on CNBC’s Squawk Box at the 2025 World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland. In the interview, Smith discussed the success of the EDISON Alliance’s 1 Billion Lives Challenge, a digital inclusion initiative. He also mentioned a forthcoming book, “Lead Boldly: Seven Principles From Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a Reflection on Dr. King’s Most Powerful Speeches,” a collection of Dr. King’s speeches contextualized with Smith’s personal stories and insights.
Robert F. Smith virtually attended “Value. Vision. Voice. Black Men in Leadership Conference 2021.” Smith discussed The 2% Solution and the potential corporations have to create meaningful systemic change.
Robert F. Smith virtually attended “Value. Vision. Voice. Black Men in Leadership Conference 2021.” Smith discussed the ability philanthropy gives us to solve problems at scale, specifically pointing to the program Student Freedom Initiative.
Robert F. Smith discusses formulating the idea of paying off the entire Morehouse Class of 2019’s student debt and more during “NAIC Insights Live” hosted by Robert L. Greene, President and CEO of the National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC).
Robert F. Smith was virtually interviewed by Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper during AFRO News’ 2021 Virtual Black Business Matters Expo, where he spoke about Student Freedom Initiative and its impact.
Robert F. Smith virtually sat down with Andrew Ross Sorkin on CNBC Squawk Box to speak about whether the money from the Paycheck Protection Program was going to the right places and the importance of addressing the lack of branch banks in African American communities.
Robert F. Smith speaks to Roland Martin about Susan L. Taylor’s philanthropic impact through the CARES Mentoring Movement, and his own background growing up in Denver and the impact that his youth had on shaping his future career.
Robert F. Smith and John Donovan explain the need to make investments in the next generation of leaders and the importance of creating pathways for people of all backgrounds to achieve success.
Robert F. Smith sits down at Columbia Black Business Students Association’s 2017 ELEVATE Conference in 2017. Smith, an alumnus of Columbia Business School, talks to students about his career and the opportunities that lie ahead for them.
Robert F. Smith speaks with National Museum of African American History and Culture Founding Director Lonnie Bunch following his $20 million donation in 2016.