A Conversation with Donald Trump

June, 2005

Donald Trump is a pulverizing, controversial, and all around American icon.  By day, he is a world-renowned businessman, building towers around with the globe, with his signature of luxury.  Than, come night, he is host of NBC’s most popular reality television show: The Apprentice.  He has written five books, including, “The Art of the Deal” and most recently, “How to Get Rich: Big Deals from the Stars of The Apprentice.”  All best sellers.  Graduate from the Wharton School of Business, he is the American Dream and there is not much he has not conquered, or dipped his feet into.  From hotels and towers, to casinos, to water, and even in philanthropy, he strives to be number one.

Kuhn: The third season of The Apprentice, “Street Smarts” vs. “Book Smarts,” had teams who are, for the most part, equal in talent.  How much do you think your education at Wharton helped to prepare you for the business world? 

Trump: All education is helpful, and Wharton is a top school, so I feel I was well equipped. Some people without education become enormously successful, so it’s sometimes hard to say. A strong work ethic has a lot to do with success.

Kuhn: What percent of being a successful businessman is who you know, vs. what you know, vs. who you are (i.e. your personality)?

Trump: I think it’s usually a combination of all three. Business requires a balance, an equilibrium, a constant cross checking. Always ask yourself—what am I pretending not to see?

Kuhn: Martha Stewart got out of jail and has already lined up her own version of The Apprentice, along with another television show.  What do you think her appeal is with the American public that makes us willing to give her a second chance? 

Trump: Martha is a great businesswoman, a visionary, and has been very dedicated to her company. Her work ethic and can-do attitude are a great combination.

Kuhn: In what ways do you think your show changed the appearance or perception of The Donald?

Trump: Oddly enough, I’ve become much more popular since I started firing people on a weekly basis.

Kuhn: If you had to be an apprentice to someone who would you choose, and why?

Trump: No one that I can think of.

Kuhn: The BBC said that your show “teaches young and eager would-be managers how to run a company.”  However, this was in an article that also talked about your Trump Hotels and Casino Resorts filing Chapter 11.  Some people question your qualifications to teach about leadership while one of your companies is having financial troubles.  How would you respond to those comments?

Trump: Financial troubles come with the territory of business. It’s rare when everything is in a constant state of smooth sailing. Difficulties can also provide opportunities.

Kuhn: You graduated from the best business school in the country, you own property all over the world, you are an accomplished author, television star, business man, and just married a beautiful wife, so what is next for The Donald? 

Trump: I have enough to keep me busy at the moment, as I still have my day job in addition to The Apprentice.

Kuhn: If you were not a businessman, what else could you see your self doing?

Trump: When I was in college, I often thought of becoming a movie producer, and almost went to USC to study film.

Kuhn: My final question is a personal one!  I wanted to apply for The Apprentice, but I am only 17 and you have to be 21.  Any thoughts on doing a “Young Smarts” vs. “Old Smarts”?!?!

Trump: Not at this time, but you may want to contact Mark Burnett Productions in Los Angeles with your idea.

Kuhn: Great!  Mr. Trump, thank you so much.  I would also just like to thank your press secretary, Meredith McIver for all of her generosity and help.  Once again my sincere thanks!