Interview - BlackRock: What’s Real, What’s Rumor, and What It Means for You

What does BlackRock actually do? How much influence does it have? And how much of what you’ve heard about it is true? Mosheh sits down with John Kelly, BlackRock’s global head of corporate affairs, to demystify the world’s largest asset manager, which oversees roughly $15 trillion on behalf of its clients. Many listeners may have money invested with the company through a 401(k), pension, or other investments without realizing it. The conversation explores BlackRock’s power, questions about its role in housing, public distrust of Wall Street, and the growing backlash against AI data centers. They also discuss BlackRock’s Future Builders initiative, which aims to help 50,000 Americans prepare for careers in the skilled trades. Why is this financial giant investing in electricians, plumbers, and other skilled workers—and could those careers offer more opportunity as AI reshapes the job market? Kelly, who previously held senior roles at Microsoft, Starbucks, and Roku, shares the company’s perspective on what these changes could mean for your work, savings, and retirement. Mosheh Oinounou (⁠@mosheh⁠) is an Emmy and Murrow award-winning journalist. He has 20 years of experience at networks including Fox News, Bloomberg Television and CBS News, where he was the executive producer of the CBS Evening News and launched the network's 24 hour news channel. He founded the @mosheh Instagram news account in 2020 and the Mo News podcast and newsletter in 2022.