Introduction

> Navigating the realm of politics and public perception has been a significant part of my journey, and while the attacks were challenging, they've only reaffirmed my commitment to kindness and grace. It's important to stay true to one's principles even when faced with adversity.

> I'm passionate about bipartisan initiatives and projects that genuinely make a difference, and despite the noise surrounding my public role, the focus has always been on impactful work that transcends political divides.

Architecture

> Growing up in a family deeply entrenched in real estate, I developed a passion for architecture early on, driven by a blend of youthful confidence and artistic admiration, inspired by the intrinsic beauty and complexity of city skylines.

> I see architecture as a testament to human ambition and collaboration, where even the most iconic structures are the result of countless dreams and meticulous attention to detail, encapsulated in the phrase, "architecture as frozen music."

> Building in New York City, with its rich tapestry of architectural styles—from gothic to modernist—requires balancing artistic vision with practicality, ensuring that the materials and execution align with both the imagined and real-world contexts.

Modern architecture

> There's a distinct beauty and emotional draw in architecture, but it also needs to be functional. "There's nothing uglier than a space that is ill-conceived, that, you know, otherwise it's decoration." The true beauty lies in how a building is used and its impact on people's lives, like those who celebrate significant life events in your projects.

> The current innovation in architecture excites me. From robotic fabrication to 3D printing and rediscovering ancient building techniques like self-healing concrete, there's a lot happening that melds sustainability with design. "It's a really, really exciting time for innovation in architecture."

> I love bridges for their blend of function and beauty, especially icons like the Brooklyn Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge, which symbolize connectivity and the hustle of city life. "The bridge kind of represents the turmoil and the busyness of a city as it creates. It’s cool."

Philosophy of design

> Embracing the complexity and legacy of historical buildings has always been a passion of mine. The Old Post Office project showcased this, blending the grandeur of its Romanesque revival architecture with modern functionality while maintaining its original charm.

> Paying attention to minute details is crucial for successful renovations. This involves hands-on involvement, from extensively walking through every room to reconfiguring layouts. It’s the dedication to precision and overcoming unique challenges that transform a project from good to great.

> True craftsmanship in real estate and design is driven by love for the project rather than profit. It's about investing blood, sweat, and tears into each detail, ensuring that every element is functional and beautiful. This depth of commitment and passion makes the tangible difference in the final product.

Lessons from mother

> Growing up under the influence of my mom, a trailblazing businesswoman and former Olympic skier, taught me to balance serious ambition with the joy of living in the moment. One of my cherished memories is just floating in the ocean with her, embodying her balance of discipline and zest for life.

> My mom’s experiences growing up during the Prague Spring and under communist rule instilled a fundamental desire for freedom and agency. Despite the hardships, she taught me the importance of finding joy amidst adversity, a virtue beautifully articulated in Viktor Frankl’s "Man's Search For Meaning" — it's about finding happiness in the everyday, regardless of circumstances.

> Witnessing my mother navigate her career in real estate, I learned about the power of resilience. Even in a male-dominated field, she remained unabashedly herself, often showing up at construction sites in high heels. Her confidence and determination were truly inspiring.

> The generational legacy of strength runs deep in my family. My grandmother, who lived independently until 94 and now shares her stories with my children, greatly influenced my upbringing. She nurtured a love for reading and maintained a positive, resolute outlook on life despite the hardships she endured, much like my mother.

> Losing my mother was profoundly dislocating, but having my grandmother with me now bridges that gap in a powerful way. Our family gatherings, clear examples of multi-generational connection and love, remind me daily of the importance of cherishing and celebrating every moment with the people we love.

Lessons from father

> Growing up, my father's sense of humor and love for music deeply influenced me. He always joked about being a Broadway musical producer in another life and now DJs at Mar-a-Lago. Our home was filled with music from Andrew Lloyd Weber, Pavarotti, Elton John, Sinatra, and Elvis. It’s funny, but it’s also a big part of who he is and what he loves.

> My dad taught me the importance of asking the right questions, especially of the right people. When we were working on the Old Post Office building project, I observed him questioning duct workers, which led to redesigning a costly heating and cooling system more efficiently. This approach of reducing complex issues to their fundamentals is something I strive to emulate.

> Challenging the status quo, even when it's uncomfortable, is crucial for innovation. I've seen how hierarchical structures slow down decision-making and how flat organizational designs can foster direct communication and rapid problem-solving. Maintaining this dynamic while scaling an organization is a significant challenge, but it's essential for achieving greatness.

Fashion

> Fashion for me has always been a form of self-expression and empowerment. The creation of Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry and other product lines, like shoes and clothing, was born out of a desire to address a gap in the market for self-purchasing women who wanted versatile, beautiful items that could transition seamlessly from work to personal life. We succeeded by making dressing for work aspirational and targeted this multidimensional woman.

> The journey from idea to product relied heavily on collaboration, finding great partners, and honing my own aesthetic sense. Whether in fashion or real estate, I operated as a "conductor," ensuring every piece harmonized within the larger collection. A big part of success, especially in something like designing a four-inch heel that’s comfortable all day, boiled down to having the right team and an innate sense of what resonates aesthetically.

> Building a successful fashion brand wasn’t just about good design; it was also about creating an emotional connection. Hearing women share how much they enjoyed my products—whether it was shoes, handbags, or engagement rings—was incredibly rewarding. It's about making products that people genuinely love and find practical, leading to long-lasting appreciation and personal stories that continue to touch me deeply.

Hotel design

> Working on a 1400-acre island project in the Mediterranean with my husband has been an incredible journey. It involves collaborating with top architects and brands like Aman and Carbone, and challenging them to respect the island's topography while bringing our vision to life. It's all about balancing modernity with the natural terrain to avoid creating just another "beautiful glass box."

> The logistical challenges of island construction, like transporting materials and integrating structures with minimal environmental impact, are immense but exhilarating. Each decision—from the layout and view corridors to the orientation of buildings in relation to the sun—adds layers of complexity and makes the project feel like "a giant puzzle," which I adore.

> Interior design plays a crucial role in creating warmth and soul within spaces, often underestimated in its impact. Thoughtful choices in fabrics, colors, and finishes can transform an otherwise cold, modern design into something truly inviting. The integration of these elements ensures that spaces not only look aesthetically pleasing but also radiate joy and comfort.

Self-doubt

> Balancing the pursuit of perfection with accepting imperfection is a daily struggle. I constantly strive to be a better mom, wife, and more creative individual, while also pushing myself to step outside of my comfort zone by harnessing the fear of not being good enough.

> Growing up with extraordinarily successful parents could have been debilitating, but instead of succumbing to self-doubt, I've learned to use it to fuel my growth and push my limits. Humility and continuous self-improvement are key, and facing fears helps in truly challenging oneself.

Intuition

> Ivanka Trump on decision-making:

> - "I think you always have sort of a gut instinct, but I think intuition, like, well-honed intuition comes from a place of accumulated knowledge."

> - "Because of that, I start oftentimes with my intuition and then I put it through like a rigorous test of whether that is in fact true."

The Apprentice

> Being on "The Apprentice" was a wild experience for me. It was a real-life classroom where I learned about teamwork, marketing, and time management in real time. The show's crossover with my business ventures was surreal but beneficial.

> Watching myself on TV was really weird and made me self-conscious. Even now, I struggle with seeing myself on screen. It was a challenging experience, unlike my father who was at ease and effective because he was authentically himself.

Michael Jackson

> Ivanka Trump highlights the natural-born talent of entertainers like Michael Jackson, who truly come alive on stage where they feel they belong. She reflects on witnessing Michael Jackson's transformation from a shy and quiet person off-stage to a vibrant performer on-stage. This contrast showcases how some individuals are destined to excel in their craft and thrive in the spotlight.

Nature

> Experiencing nature, like being in the jungle with someone like Paul Rosalie, who truly belongs there, makes you feel the history and stories emanating from ancient buildings and giant trees. It's a humbling reminder that you are forever a part of nature and earth.

> Being alone in the jungle allows for a real connection with nature, making you realize how small you are in the grand scheme of things. Moments like these, whether in the depths of the jungle or on the vast ocean on a surfboard, bring a beautiful sense of humility and presence that stays with you for a long time.

Surfing

> Ivanka Trump shared two key insights about her love for surfing and the ocean:

> "In surfing, you're not fighting the ocean, you're flowing with it. You have the agency to choose your waves and read the ocean, but you can't control it."

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> "The hardest part of surfing is paddling out. When you're caught in the line of impact and waves crash over you, you can't fight it. You have to flow with it until there's a break, then paddle back out."

Donald Trump

> - Life changed overnight when my father decided to run for president, it was intense and unlike anything we had experienced.

> - The campaign was an extraordinary growth experience, connecting with people on a deep level and hearing their stories.

> - Joining the White House was a decision made out of trust and a sense of responsibility to make a difference for people's lives.

> - Despite the division and noise in politics, most people just want the best for their families and communities, showing a different reality than what social media portrays.

Politics

> Working in Washington was a challenging yet rewarding experience, requiring relentless efforts to build coalitions and convince lawmakers of the importance of impactful policies like doubling the child tax credit.

> The real impact of policies like the child tax credit on 40 million American families, each with unique stories and struggles, motivated me to persevere through tough moments in Washington.

> Facilitating compromises and bipartisan cooperation involved active listening, humility in accepting feedback, and recognizing that well-rounded input leads to well-designed policies that benefit people's lives.

> Addressing underprioritized issues like education and human trafficking required persistence in advocating for good policies that may not receive immediate attention, and facing the harsh realities of suffering in the world while designing government interventions was both motivating and emotionally challenging.

Work-life balance

> Balance is elusive, priorities matter more. Feeling conflicted about priorities in the White House - the finite time there made every moment crucial.

> Family support was everything during the challenging times in Washington. Kids brought joy and levity, with even little moments like Theo making cappuccino being treasured.

Parenting

> Parenting has taught me empathy and the importance of meeting each child where they're at, embracing their uniqueness in temperament and desires. It's made me a softer, more attentive person, seeing people for who they truly are. My kids have reconnected me with joy and playfulness, allowing me to experience life more fully.

> Parenting a diverse set of kids has been a beautiful challenge of understanding their individual needs and interests. It's about being present, allowing them to lead play, and showing genuine curiosity in what excites them. Witnessing their interactions, even their conflicts, teaches me valuable lessons in problem-solving and perspective.

> In the face of intense attacks and criticism, my philosophy is rooted in staying true to myself and not engaging in negativity. I believe in the power of words, understanding the impact of negativity not just on others but on my own soul. Choosing love over criticism aligns with my values, even if it's a contrarian stance in the political realm.

> Embracing growth and evolution, I resonate with Alan Watts' idea that we're not obligated to be the same person we were moments ago. Reflecting on my journey through real estate, fashion, and government, I see how my ambitions have merged into a more integrated version of myself. My focus on simpler pleasures and being fully present, guided by my children, has brought a newfound comfort in who I am and the path I'm on.

2024 presidential campaign

> One of my key reasons for not engaging in the 2024 campaign is prioritizing my young children and our private family life. I want to be there for them during this formative time and not let them bear the emotional cost of my absence due to politics.

> While government service is significant, I believe there are other valuable ways to serve, like volunteering within your community. Politics can be a dark world that doesn't align with what feels right for me and my family, so for us, it feels right to step back and not participate.

Dolly Parton

> Ivanka Trump reflected on Dolly Parton's authenticity and self-assurance, connecting it to her own admiration for her mother and finding it refreshing to witness someone so secure in themselves, talent, and purpose.

> Ivanka also acknowledged Dolly Parton's multifaceted talent as a musician, songwriter, performer, and iconic country music singer, highlighting her ability to create a joyful image while genuinely enjoying her craft.

Adele

> Taylor Swift is extraordinary. Her voice is unreal. She has a unique talent that appeals to both three-year-olds and 90-year-olds. Witnessing her range of influence firsthand at Madison Square Garden was truly remarkable.

Alice Johnson

> Meeting Alice Johnson and witnessing her impact on others was a profound experience for me and my kids, sparking beautiful conversations on service and empathy.

> Collaborating with Jared on criminal justice reform, especially through the First Step Act, was incredibly meaningful, allowing us to give many people a second chance and create lasting positive change even in the final days of the administration.

Stevie Ray Vaughan

> Adele's music encapsulates a mix of emotions like anger, love, and attitude, making her voice truly powerful and unique. It's inspiring how she conveys so much emotion through her songs.

> Watching old concert videos on YouTube, like performances of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Django Reinhardt, brings back memories and fuels creativity. It's amazing to witness their talent and artistry, and it motivates me to continue learning and playing music.

Aretha Franklin

> One of my favorite live performances is really Aretha Franklin's version of "Amazing Grace". The pain, the soulfulness, you feel that spirit when you watch it.

> Adele also carries that spirit; you can strip away everything and just have that voice, it's so commanding.

Freddie Mercury

> Ivanka Trump shared two key insights during the interview:

> "I love watching Queen... great stage presence... that Live Aid performance is like considered one of the best of all."

> "I think live music is one of those kind of rare moments where you can really be present... allowing yourself to sort of fall into it is incredible."

Jiu jitsu

> Jiu-jitsu is empowering and offers basic self-defense skills, instilling confidence and calmness in knowing how to handle situations. Through training, a heightened awareness of surroundings is developed, promoting safety and mindfulness in daily life.

> The Valente Brothers' approach integrates philosophy and history, emphasizing the broader aspects of martial arts beyond just physical techniques. Their 7-5-3 code guides behavior both on and off the mat, shaping a way of life focused on principles like benevolence, respect, and balance.

> Jiu-jitsu provides a humbling experience that simplifies the complexity of life by offering clear wins and losses. The sport serves as a powerful avenue for self-reflection, growth, and facing the reality of both success and defeat with grace.

Bucket list

> Ivanka Trump reflects on her ever-growing bucket list, emphasizing the importance of continuous curiosity and learning. She shares her passion for incubating businesses, investing in companies, and exploring real estate, alongside desires like climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and experiencing unique adventures with her children. In a longer-term goal, she aims to earn a black belt in jiu-jitsu and express interest in space travel, particularly setting foot on the Moon to gain a new perspective on Earth and reinforce the value of protecting our planet as our home.

Hope

> I feel a lot of hope when I am in nature. I feel a lot of hope when I am experiencing people who are good, and honest, and pure, and true, and passionate, and that's not an uncommon experience. So those experiences give me hope.

> I love humanity. We're awesome. We're a pretty good species. We create some beautiful stuff, and I hope we keep creating and doing a lot of beautiful things in this world.