The Blockbuster Video Rental Downfall: Navigating Crisis and Competition | Jim Keyes CEO

DALLAS, TX — February 23, 2026 — In this episode of the Business Decoded podcast, host Ronnie Spellman interviews Jim Keyes, former CEO of both 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, to explore the vital intersection of leadership, adaptability, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Keyes argues that crisis and change represent the greatest opportunities for growth, provided leaders can overcome the "big company disease" of inertia and fear. By reflecting on his experiences navigating corporate restructuring and competing with digital disruptors like Netflix and Amazon, Keyes emphasizes that "Education is Freedom," asserting that lifelong learning and cultural literacy are the ultimate tools for overcoming fear and achieving both personal and societal progress.