What is *Kushner, Inc.* by Vicky Ward about?

*Kushner, Inc.* investigates Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump’s unchecked influence in the Trump White House, exposing their alleged corruption, conflicts of interest, and pursuit of personal wealth. Investigative journalist Vicky Ward traces their rise from New Jersey real estate empires to pivotal roles in U.S. policy, detailing ethically dubious deals—like Jared’s efforts to secure bailouts for the Kushner family’s 666 Fifth Avenue property—and their impact on democratic norms.

Who should read *Kushner, Inc.*?

This book suits readers interested in political biographies, U.S. governance ethics, or the Trump administration’s inner workings. It appeals to those seeking a critical analysis of power dynamics, with meticulously researched accounts of Jared and Ivanka’s financial entanglements, foreign policy interventions, and alleged exploitation of government roles for personal gain.

Is *Kushner, Inc.* worth reading?

Yes, for its gripping narrative and investigative depth. Ward combines financial records, insider interviews, and policy analysis to argue that Jared and Ivanka prioritized self-enrichment over national interest, particularly in dealings with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and China. The book’s blend of scandal, politics, and family drama makes it a standout critique of modern power.

What are the main criticisms of *Kushner, Inc.*?

Critics note reliance on anonymous sources and a skeptical tone, though Ward’s claims align with documented events like Jared’s undisclosed meetings with foreign entities. Some argue the book reinforces known Trump-era controversies but offers fresh details about Ivanka’s strategic role in shielding Jared’s image and their joint policymaking failures.

How does *Kushner, Inc.* describe Jared Kushner’s business dealings?

The book highlights Jared’s risky financial maneuvers, including his family’s $1.2 billion debt on 666 Fifth Avenue and his pursuit of Qatar/Saudi bailouts while shaping Middle East policy. Ward alleges he blurred business and governance, such as discussing U.S.-China relations during a property rescue negotiation with Chinese investors.

What role does Ivanka Trump play in *Kushner, Inc.*?

Ivanka is portrayed as Jared’s shrewd strategist, leveraging her public image to deflect scrutiny. Ward claims she orchestrated Jared’s political ascent, managed his public persona, and influenced policy decisions—despite lacking expertise—to protect their financial interests and social standing.

Does *Kushner, Inc.* address foreign policy controversies?

Yes, notably Jared’s alleged quid pro quo with Qatar’s government during the 2017 Saudi-led blockade. Ward ties a $1.3 billion lease deal for 666 Fifth Avenue with a Canadian-Qatari firm to Jared’s abrupt reversal on U.S. support for the blockade, suggesting policy was traded for financial relief.

What ethical issues does the book expose?

Key concerns include Jared’s failure to disclose foreign contacts, Ivanka’s use of White House connections to trademark her brands, and their use of public roles to solicit foreign investments. Ward argues these actions violated norms of transparency and prioritized personal gain over national security.

Kushner, Inc.

Greed. Ambition. Corruption. The Extraordinary Story of Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump

Vicky Ward

3.53(2080 Reviews)

Overview of Kushner, Inc.

"Kushner, Inc." exposes the power couple behind Trump's White House - a tale of nepotism, security clearance controversies, and Middle East policy potentially influenced by personal financial deals. Democracy Now! featured Ward's explosive revelations about how Kushner's Qatar connections may have altered U.S. foreign policy.

Choose how it's told

One book. Many ways to hear it.

Same ideas from Kushner, Inc.. Pick the voice, depth, and pace that fits you. Switch anytime.

Chapter 1

The Rise of America's Power Couple

In a packed ballroom on January 20, 2017, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner glided onto the dance floor at the inaugural ball, drawing all eyes away from the newly sworn-in President and First Lady. As they waved to the adoring crowd, the couple embodied what many saw as American royalty - beautiful, polished, and now incredibly powerful. That same evening, at Trump International Hotel, Charlie Kushner berated his younger son Josh about his relationship with model Karlie Kloss, insisting she wasn't "the right person" - unlike Ivanka, who despite converting to Judaism, was acceptable because she was "real estate royalty." The contrast couldn't have been clearer: Jared and Ivanka had arrived at the pinnacle of American power, while the rest of the Kushner family basked in their reflected glory. What most Americans didn't realize was that behind the glamorous facade lay a complex web of family trauma, business struggles, and ethical compromises that would shape the next four years of American politics. Vicky Ward's explosive investigation into the Kushner dynasty has become required reading for anyone seeking to understand how this power couple rose to such heights despite having no political experience - and why their influence proved so controversial.

Chapter 2

From Holocaust Survivors to Real Estate Empire

The Kushner family story begins with profound trauma. Jared's grandparents, Joseph and Rae Kushner, survived the Holocaust and arrived in New York in 1949 after three years in an Italian refugee camp. This experience shaped everything that followed - as one family member explained, "Surviving, growing, getting rich, power, politics... this was all to spite the Nazis." The family maintained deep suspicion of outsiders while prioritizing family loyalty above all else. Their guiding philosophy became "Think like an immigrant, act like an immigrant," creating a mindset that rules were for other people: "You don't wait for the Nazis to liquidate you. You build a tunnel and get out... You don't wait for Harvard to let you in. You make it yourself." After Joseph's death, Charlie Kushner transformed their New Jersey community of Livingston into a Jewish enclave, building the Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy and creating an Orthodox community where his home became the hub for family celebrations. Charlie's ambition was boundless - "I want to be the most powerful Jew in America" - driving him to build thousands of garden apartments that made him a New Jersey power broker. His autocratic business style earned him nicknames like "the Dapper Don" and "Don Corleone," not just for his natty suits but for his Godfather-like approach to business and family. Beginning in the mid-1990s, Charlie directed the company to commit financial fraud to fund his growing ambitions, setting up Westminster Management to control properties that were legally owned equally among siblings. Charlie's management meetings became infamous as the "Tuesday beatings" - brutal three-hour sessions where no one could use the bathroom and Charlie would erupt over trivial matters. Only his children's interruptions would momentarily transform him into a doting father. Throughout this period, Charlie groomed Jared as his chosen successor, seeing himself as a Jewish Joseph Kennedy with Jared as his JFK. While Jared's construction site "training" consisted mostly of sitting and listening to music, Charlie arranged meetings with politicians and even hosted Netanyahu overnight at their home. To secure Jared's Harvard admission, Charlie pledged $2.5 million to the university and enlisted Senator Lautenberg to call Ted Kennedy, who contacted Harvard's admissions dean. Jared's high school teachers were "aghast" at his acceptance, as his "GPA did not warrant it, his SAT scores did not warrant it." Meanwhile, Charlie showed little interest in his daughters' academic achievements, making clear that Nicole and Dara "weren't the Chosen One."

See every word as you hear it

Read along effortlessly as each word of Kushner, Inc. lights up in real time.

Chapter 3

The Fall and Resurrection of Charlie Kushner

The Kushner family imploded when Charlie's brother Murray grew suspicious that Charlie was defrauding him. During a tense Passover gathering in 2000, Charlie declared himself the family head, claiming credit for getting Murray's children into Penn. When Murray responded, "If we can't be partners, we can't be brothers," Charlie unleashed a tirade about his siblings' ingratitude. Murray eventually sued Charlie, seeking business records with help from company accountant Bob Yontef. In a desperate attempt to silence his perceived enemies, Charlie paid a retiring police officer $25,000 to film his brother-in-law Billy with a prostitute, then sent the video to Billy's wife Esther. This led to Charlie's arrest in July 2004 for witness retaliation and impeding justice. Rather than fight the charges, Charlie pleaded guilty to eighteen counts, possibly influenced by a fax containing allegations about his personal life that would have been devastating in his closed Orthodox community. While Charlie served his two-year sentence in Alabama, Alan Hammer ran Kushner Companies, not Jared as family mythology later claimed. Hammer changed the company culture, eliminating the yelling and ensuring everything was done properly. Upon release, Charlie implemented a rehabilitation plan: buy a trophy Manhattan asset to shift operations from New Jersey, purchase a media outlet (The New York Observer), and have Jared date someone prominent. The plan worked brilliantly. In 2007, the Kushners purchased 666 Fifth Avenue for $1.8 billion - the most ever paid for a U.S. office building - structured with 97% debt and only $50 million down from the Kushners and their partners. The loan terms restricted Charlie's ownership and management role due to his felony conviction, requiring Jared to be the public face while Charlie remained the true decision-maker behind the scenes. When the 2008 financial crisis hit, the property struggled, forcing the Kushners to sell 49% of the retail portion and desperately seek additional capital, including from Arab investors, despite Charlie's strong pro-Israel views. As Jared struggled to save 666 Fifth Avenue, Charlie kept him focused on The New York Observer, strategically separating father and son in the public's perception as part of rehabilitating the Kushner name. The acquisition elevated Jared's social status, connecting him with media moguls, politicians, and financial stars despite the paper's financial struggles.

Chapter 4

The Perfect Match: Jared and Ivanka

At a networking lunch arranged by diamond heir Moshe Lax, Jared met Ivanka Trump-perfectly fulfilling publicist Howard Rubenstein's recommendation that "Jared should date a high-profile woman." The two real estate heirs quickly became a gossip column sensation, appearing as gracious, mature counterpoints to their crass fathers. After dating for a year, they split in April 2008 because Seryl and Charlie were horrified at the prospect of Jared marrying outside their faith, refusing even to meet Ivanka. They reunited that summer during a boating holiday orchestrated by Wendi Deng Murdoch, with Ivanka agreeing to convert to Judaism on Charlie's demanding terms. By the wedding on October 25, 2009, at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, Charlie and Seryl had become effusive about their new daughter-in-law, with Charlie giving an emotionally charged speech praising Ivanka as a fantastic addition to the family. Donald Trump, however, seemed discombobulated by his daughter's conversion, giving what guests described as a "lame and embarrassing" toast. He questioned why his daughter needed to convert and told associates he thought Charlie was "stupid" for getting caught by federal authorities. Unlike Jared who was his father's favorite, Ivanka had fought for Donald Trump's attention throughout her life. After her parents' divorce, she made extraordinary efforts to stay close to her father-calling him from school janitors' closets and visiting his office daily. While she portrays her childhood positively, friends recall her loneliness. The divorce made the Trump children band together in an "us-versus-the-world" mentality, with Ivanka carefully controlling her public image from an early age. Joining the Trump Organization in 2005, Ivanka became skilled at self-promotion and media manipulation. Despite her carefully crafted image as a competent businesswoman, court records and interviews reveal a chaotic organization where decisions happened haphazardly. The Trump business had shifted from development to licensing, with Ivanka and her siblings selling franchises to questionable partners. Success in the organization meant bringing new projects to their father for instant approval, with minimal documentation or due diligence. The newlyweds cultivated a perfect Instagram image of work-life balance that matched Ivanka's brand as a successful working woman. They had three children in quick succession-Arabella (2011), Joseph (2013), and Theodore (2016). Though they entertained frequently, hosting Shabbat dinners for friends like Michael Ovitz and Tamara Mellon, beneath their polished exterior, acquaintances noted a combination of arrogance and intellectual incuriosity.

Get more out of Kushner, Inc.

Get daily insights from 100K+ lessons
Words light up in sync with the audio
Your library saved on every device

Chapter 5

The Reluctant Campaign Strategists

When Donald Trump announced his presidential run in June 2015, the Kushners quickly leveraged the campaign's growing momentum for business opportunities. They courted Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani (HBJ), Qatar's former prime minister, who initially committed $500 million to their 666 Fifth Avenue luxury mall project, contingent on finding a matching investor. Though initially distant from Trump's campaign, Kushner became increasingly involved as his father-in-law gained traction, experiencing a personal turning point at a November 2015 rally in Springfield, Illinois. He helped craft Trump's AIPAC speech with assistance from Israeli Ambassador Ron Dermer and Observer editor Ken Kurson, whose involvement created ethical concerns. As Trump's rhetoric grew more divisive, many in New York's Jewish real estate community were disturbed, though associates believed the couple saw the campaign primarily as "a networking opportunity" rather than ideological alignment. Once Trump became the presumptive Republican nominee in May 2016, Kushner and Ivanka pushed to assert themselves within the campaign. Kushner gained control of the budget but clashed with campaign chief Corey Lewandowski, whom Trump adored despite the Trump children's dislike. In June 2016, Kushner and Trump's children delivered an ultimatum to Trump: "It's Corey or us." After Trump called Lewandowski three times on Father's Day, Lewandowski arrived the next morning for the regular Monday meeting only to be fired. As Kushner's influence in the campaign grew, he began cultivating powerful international connections that would benefit both the campaign and potentially his family business. From data analytics partnerships to diplomatic relationships with foreign officials, Kushner positioned himself at the center of Trump's foreign outreach strategy while Ivanka worked to soften her father's public image. Despite federal laws prohibiting campaigns from soliciting contributions from foreign nationals, Kushner rapidly expanded his international contacts. Henry Kissinger introduced him to Chinese ambassador Cui Tiankai, conveniently while Anbang was negotiating with Kushner Companies over 666 Fifth Avenue. Tom Barrack connected Kushner with UAE ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba, who had invested at least $1 million with Barrack. While Kushner worked behind the scenes, Ivanka managed her father's public image, particularly regarding women. Despite Trump's misogynistic comments, she insisted "he's not a groper" and that "his actions speak louder than words." She focused on building her own brand around women's empowerment with her #womenwhowork hashtag and upcoming book.

Chapter 6

From Chaos to Victory: The Final Campaign Push

By mid-August 2016, Trump's campaign was in chaos - no money, no plan, and an undisciplined candidate. After Rebekah Mercer confronted Trump with a damning New York Times article, Steve Bannon was appointed campaign chief executive and Kellyanne Conway became campaign manager. Examining the campaign's finances, Bannon discovered they were essentially broke, not the $25 million Kushner had claimed. Bannon threw out the existing schedule with themes like "women's empowerment" and brought in experienced operatives including David Bossie as deputy campaign manager. He leveraged the RNC's $175 million data operation despite Trump and Kushner's reluctance to use it. Digital director Gary Coby's Facebook fundraising efforts proved crucial, raising $256 million in eighteen weeks from small-dollar donors. While Kushner served as a valuable conduit to Trump, he wasn't focused on campaign minutiae and still spent considerable time at 666 Fifth Avenue. He never joined the daily 5 PM check-in calls with senior staff. Ivanka was mostly absent due to having a new baby, while Don Jr. and Eric Trump connected better with the base and campaigned more actively. In late August, Kushner proposed a presidential-looking trip to Mexico. He had been secretly talking with Mexican Finance Minister Luis Videgaray about renegotiating NAFTA. They arranged for Trump to meet President Enrique Pena Nieto on August 31, planning a friendly press conference with no mention of Mexico paying for the wall. Despite Trump's security concerns requiring special travel arrangements, the visit initially went well visually. However, when ABC's Jonathan Karl asked about Mexico paying for the wall, Trump began answering despite the plan to avoid the topic. On October 7, as WikiLeaks released damaging Clinton Foundation emails, The Washington Post published a 2005 video of Trump bragging about grabbing women "by the pussy." While many campaign members thought it was over, Bannon insisted Trump respond with a statement. Kushner and Ivanka skipped Shabbat to help draft a response with Stephen Miller. After hours of chaos and Trump's visible distress, Ivanka calmed her father, and they finally released a video response around 12:30 AM. On Election Night, as Trump's victory became clear, Bannon prepared a "fire-breathing" victory speech for the "forgotten men." However, Ivanka and Kushner convinced Trump to deliver a unifying message instead. Bannon later viewed this contradiction as "the original sin of this administration" - revealing the fundamental conflict between his vision of Trump as a disruptive force and the couple's desire for Trump to be liked.

See every word as you hear it

Read along effortlessly as each word of Kushner, Inc. lights up in real time.

Chapter 7

The White House Years: Unprecedented Power and Conflicts

Jared Kushner arrived in Washington with enormous but undefined influence, quickly earning the nickname "Secretary of Everything" for his tendency to meddle across policy areas despite having no clear portfolio. While Ivanka made a splash with her designer wardrobe and social media presence, ethics experts questioned both Kushners' inadequate business divestments. Kushner complained about the financial burden of government service while selling only a fraction of his real estate holdings. According to The Washington Post, he still owned assets valued between $167.5 million and $569.5 million, placed in trusts with his mother or brother. A Cadre investor noted cynically: "Jared and Josh own everything together... saying he transferred the interest to his brother is a joke." White House colleagues resented that the couple appeared to profit while in office while "everyone else had played by the rules." Ivanka arrived in Washington seeking her "princess moment" with a parade of designer outfits documented on Instagram. Though taking a "leave of absence" from her business, she didn't sell it - an arrangement ethics experts found unsatisfactory. At the inaugural balls, the couple appeared euphoric at their newfound power. Despite her campaign championing of women, Ivanka remained silent during the massive Women's March, while secretly attempting to negotiate with Planned Parenthood to end abortion services in exchange for federal funding. Kushner opposed repealing Obamacare, raising suspicions about his motives given his brother Josh's health insurance company Oscar was valued at $2.7 billion - worth more than any other Kushner family asset. Though Josh never directly spoke to Gary Cohn about healthcare legislation, his chief policy officer Joel Klein persistently lobbied Cohn, making him uncomfortable with what seemed like attempts to shape policy to benefit Oscar. The tension between Kushner and Steve Bannon erupted when Bannon discovered Kushner was secretly meeting with senators about preserving DACA, directly contradicting Trump's campaign promises. Their confrontation escalated from Kushner's accusations about Bannon's ego to shouting, with Bannon later telling a confidant that Kushner transformed "from a little boy to, like, this fucking devil." Ivanka's relationship with her father was uncomfortably close, with her regularly entering the Oval Office with children in tow, speaking in a "singsong voice" while Trump called her "baby." Despite this influence, Trump occasionally reminded her who was in charge, once dismissing her outrage over Kellyanne Conway's ethics violation with "Honey, you sell shoes. Calm down." Ivanka's policy initiatives, like expanding the child tax credit, were often at odds with Republican positions, earning her office the nickname "HABI" - "Home of All Bad Ideas."

Chapter 8

The Comey Firing and Its Aftermath

On May 9, 2017, Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, a decision that sent shockwaves through Washington and was largely orchestrated by Jared Kushner. When news broke, Gary Cohn and Dina Powell, both former Goldman Sachs executives, were alarmed by the political fallout. Powell emotionally confronted Kushner, warning him it was a huge political mistake, but Kushner remained unmoved, insisting "the guy is not on our team." By April, with Kushner's undisclosed Russian meetings becoming public, he became "gung-ho" about firing Comey. In the Oval Office, Kushner argued to Trump that firing Comey would be popular because agents hated him, Democrats would appreciate it, and Trump's base would raise money off it. Bannon vehemently disagreed with each point, warning that agents would rally behind Comey "like J. Edgar Hoover" and Democrats would treat him "like Joan of Arc." Most critically, Bannon warned: "You fire Comey, you're going to get a special counsel." Despite these warnings, Trump sided with Kushner after a weekend at Bedminster with Jared and Ivanka. The reaction to Comey's firing was exactly opposite of what Kushner had predicted - widespread outrage erupted, with many calling it an abuse of power. The situation worsened when Trump told NBC's Lester Holt that "this Russia thing" factored into his decision to fire Comey, essentially admitting he fired the FBI director partly because of the Russia investigation. On May 17, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein appointed Robert Mueller as special counsel to oversee the Russia inquiry. Just eight days later, The Washington Post reported that Kushner was a focus of Mueller's investigation, and later his business dealings came under scrutiny as well. Mueller's team would investigate Kushner's meetings with representatives of Qatar, Turkey, UAE, Russia, and China, while the Brooklyn U.S. Attorney's office examined Deutsche Bank loans to Kushner Companies. With Robert Mueller's appointment as special counsel, Trump assembled a legal team including Marc Kasowitz, John Dowd, Ty Cobb, and Jay Sekulow, with Mark Corallo handling communications strategy. The team identified three main areas of investigation: Flynn and Manafort's foreign connections, social media interference through microtargeting, and Comey's firing. They recognized Kushner as potentially implicated in all three areas, with particular concern about his claims regarding campaign microtargeting, his 666 Fifth Avenue negotiations, and his security clearance form omissions regarding Russian meetings.

Get more out of Kushner, Inc.

Get daily insights from 100K+ lessons
Words light up in sync with the audio
Your library saved on every device

Chapter 9

Middle East Diplomacy and Business Entanglements

Kushner's Middle East diplomacy operated largely outside normal State Department channels. After his third trip to Riyadh in 2017, Crown Prince MBS had approximately 200 prominent Saudis arrested on corruption charges and detained in the Ritz-Carlton hotel. The detainees were forced to surrender billions without trials, with some requiring hospitalization from their treatment. Intelligence sources indicated Kushner may have shared U.S. intelligence with MBS about Saudis disloyal to the crown prince, which Kushner's attorney denied. On December 6, Trump recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital and ordered the embassy moved from Tel Aviv, despite Secretary of State Tillerson warning "You are making a huge mistake." State Department officials were concerned that Trump gave this concession without getting anything in return, such as Israeli concessions on West Bank settlements. When Palestinian violence didn't immediately erupt as Tillerson and Mattis had warned, Trump mocked them. In March 2018, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with Trump and Kushner at the White House. Despite Trump's public warmth, the meeting grew heated when MBS balked at Trump's request for $4 billion to rebuild Syria, claiming Saudi Arabia couldn't afford it. Trump challenged MBS's claim of poverty, pointing to his lavish travel arrangements. Weeks later, Qatar's Emir Al Thani visited the White House, strategically wearing a suit rather than robes and offering to help with Syria and Iran, but explaining the blockade prevented this. Trump then pressured the Saudis and UAE to resolve the Gulf crisis, even drafting a stern letter threatening to cut off support. Meanwhile, the Kushners' deal with Anbang for 666 Fifth Avenue faced multiple obstacles. By March 2017, the Anbang-666 deal collapsed, though Kushner Companies remained publicly optimistic about finding alternative funding. In April 2017, Qatari Finance Minister Ali Shareef Al Emadi came to New York, where Charlie Kushner and his daughter Nicole Kushner Meyer sought nearly one billion dollars for their troubled property. The Qataris politely declined. A financial analyst later questioned whether the Qatar blockade would have happened had they funded Kushner's request.

Chapter 10

Salvation Through Brookfield and Legacy Questions

In May 2018, The New York Times reported that Kushner Companies and Brookfield Asset Management were nearing a deal on 666 Fifth Avenue. The article highlighted Brookfield's ties to Qatar Investment Authority, which owned a $1.8 billion stake in Brookfield's real estate arm, though Qatar denied involvement in the deal. On June 1, Vornado announced it would sell its 49.5% stake to Kushner Companies for $120 million, clearing the way for the Brookfield deal. By August 3, Brookfield and Kushner Companies closed a deal where Brookfield leased the building's office space for ninety-nine years, paying the entire rent upfront. This unusual arrangement allowed Kushner Companies to pay off the $1.1 billion debt and buy out Vornado. The structure also helped the Kushners avoid paying potentially hundreds of millions in taxes that would have been triggered by a sale. For an initial $50 million investment in 2007, Charlie had transformed the family's status from New Jersey developers to Manhattan players-and ultimately to the White House. The epilogue reveals Ivanka's presidential ambitions, with Gary Cohn quoted as saying "She thinks she's going to be president" and believes the Trumps are establishing a dynasty like the Kennedys or Bushes. Since her father's nomination, Ivanka has been strategically positioning herself as his political heir - introducing him at the convention, editing his acceptance speech, securing a large West Wing staff, networking with industry leaders, and championing workplace initiatives while maintaining a constant social media presence showcasing her global activities. Despite numerous scandals and ethical questions surrounding both Jared and Ivanka, their power only increased with Chief of Staff John Kelly's departure in December 2018. However, the epilogue presents an alternative scenario where they face a reckoning through the Mueller investigation and the newly Democrat-controlled House with subpoena power. As one source ominously concluded, "One day, when Jared and Ivanka are gone, I will tell you the real story" - suggesting even more damaging revelations await.

★★★★★

You made it to the end of Kushner, Inc.

“23 days in and I have used it every single day. It is part of my daily habit now.”

jayallen

Key Themes in Kushner, Inc.

dynastic succession
white collar crime
real estate maneuvering
nepotism in government
political influence peddling

Quotes from Kushner, Inc.

Think like an immigrant, act like an immigrant.
I want to be the most powerful Jew in America.
You don't wait for the Nazis to liquidate you.
Jared should date a high-profile woman.

Characters in Kushner, Inc.

Jared KushnerThe 'Chosen One' and public face of the dynasty
Ivanka TrumpWife of Jared and member of real estate royalty
Charlie KushnerThe autocratic patriarch and family mastermind
Murray KushnerCharlie's brother who sued him over fraud
Josh KushnerCharlie's younger son and brother to Jared

About the Author

Vicky Ward, a New York Times bestselling author and investigative journalist, explores the convergence of power, wealth, and political corruption in her gripping exposé, Kushner, Inc.: Greed. Power. Corruption. With a British-American background, Ward is a leading voice on financial and political misconduct, leveraging her extensive experience as a contributing editor at Vanity Fair and a senior reporter at CNN for over two decades.

Throughout her career, she has investigated prominent figures such as Jeffrey Epstein, Bernie Madoff, and various corporate power brokers. Ward's work has significantly influenced national discourse through platforms including her Audible Original podcast, Pipeline to Power, and her Substack newsletter, “Vicky Ward Investigates,” both of which dissect systemic corruption.

Ward's profound insights are rooted in her academic background in literature from Cambridge, coupled with her acute analysis of society. This is evident in her previous bestsellers, including The Devil’s Casino, which examined the collapse of Lehman Brothers, and The Liar’s Ball, which delved into New York’s real estate empires. Kushner, Inc. quickly became a New York Times bestseller, cementing her reputation for delivering uncompromising accountability journalism. Her reporting has been featured on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, CNN, and in major publications like The Financial Times. As a Visiting Fellow at Oxford University, Ward continues to reveal the dynamics of power through documentaries and in-depth investigations.

Download Summary of Kushner, Inc.

Get the Kushner, Inc. summary as a free PDF or EPUB. Print it or read offline anytime.

Users also liked

The Making of Donald Trump

David Cay Johnston

Siege

Michael Wolff

Unscripted

James B Stewart & Rachel Abrams

Craig Unger

Rachel Kushner

Dana Mattioli

Donald Trump Jr.

Ryan Holiday

FAQs About This Book

Discover more

LEARNING PLAN

The Kennedy Dynasty: Power, Scandal, and Survival

This plan offers a deep dive into the tension between political mythology and the reality of power. It is ideal for history buffs and political science students seeking to understand how one family shaped American leadership through triumph and turmoil.

30 m•3 Sections

LEARNING PLAN

Learn about John Kiriakou

This plan provides a deep dive into the intersection of national security, ethics, and personal sacrifice. It is essential for students of political science, human rights advocates, or anyone interested in the real-world consequences of government whistleblowing.

3 h 36 m•3 Sections

LEARNING PLAN

Study John Kiriakou & CIA Operator Tactics

This plan offers a rare look into the high-stakes world of intelligence, bridging the gap between operational mastery and ethical integrity. It is essential for students of geopolitical history, aspiring intelligence analysts, or anyone interested in the moral dilemmas faced by those operating in the shadows.

6 h 2 m•4 Sections

LEARNING PLAN

Study Israel, US Gov, and Jeffrey Epstein

This learning plan is essential for those seeking to understand the hidden mechanics of global influence and domestic governance. It is designed for researchers, political enthusiasts, and truth-seekers who want to connect the dots between historical legacies and modern elite scandals.

4 h 14 m•4 Sections

LEARNING PLAN

The Beijing Backchannel: Nixon and Kissinger's Secret Opening

This plan provides a masterclass in high-stakes diplomacy, detailing how Nixon and Kissinger bypassed traditional bureaucracy to reshape the global order. It is essential for aspiring diplomats, historians, and strategic leaders interested in the mechanics of secret negotiations and geopolitical pivot points.

30 m•3 Sections

LEARNING PLAN

Tactics, Treachery, and the Throne

This learning plan provides a deep dive into the intersection of high-stakes politics and military strategy. It is essential for history enthusiasts, aspiring leaders, and strategists who want to understand how psychological warfare and long-term planning shape the course of empires.

1 h 30 m•3 Sections

LEARNING PLAN

The Digital Power Grab

In an era where data is the new oil, understanding the intersection of technology and political power is essential for maintaining democratic integrity. This plan is designed for policy advocates, tech ethics students, and concerned citizens who want to understand how surveillance capitalism reshapes our social and political institutions.

1 h 12 m•3 Sections

LEARNING PLAN

Billionaires, Bots, and the Ballot

In an era where tech giants and high-net-worth individuals wield unprecedented power, understanding the mechanics of modern democracy is essential. This plan is ideal for political analysts, tech policy advocates, and concerned citizens looking to navigate the intersection of private capital and state machinery.

1 h 30 m•3 Sections

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of Curious Minds

4.7

avg rating

7.84k+ App Rating

BeFreed Community

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

See more on how BeFreed is discussed

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of Curious Minds

4.7

avg rating

7.84k+ App Rating

BeFreed Community

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

See more on how BeFreed is discussed

Start your learning journey, now

Chapter 7

Kushner, Inc.

OverviewOverview of Kushner, Inc.

One book. Many ways to hear it.

The Rise of America's Power Couple

From Holocaust Survivors to Real Estate Empire

See every word as you hear it

The Fall and Resurrection of Charlie Kushner

The Perfect Match: Jared and Ivanka

Get more out of Kushner, Inc.

The Reluctant Campaign Strategists

From Chaos to Victory: The Final Campaign Push

See every word as you hear it

The White House Years: Unprecedented Power and Conflicts

The Comey Firing and Its Aftermath

Get more out of Kushner, Inc.

Middle East Diplomacy and Business Entanglements

Salvation Through Brookfield and Legacy Questions

You made it to the end of Kushner, Inc.

Key Themes in Kushner, Inc.

Quotes from Kushner, Inc.

Characters in Kushner, Inc.

About the Author

Download Summary of Kushner, Inc.

Users also liked

FAQs About This Book

What is Kushner, Inc. by Vicky Ward about?

Who should read Kushner, Inc.?

Is Kushner, Inc. worth reading?

What are the main criticisms of Kushner, Inc.?

Discover more

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of Curious Minds

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of Curious Minds

One book. Many ways to hear it.

The Rise of America's Power Couple

From Holocaust Survivors to Real Estate Empire

See every word as you hear it

The Fall and Resurrection of Charlie Kushner

The Perfect Match: Jared and Ivanka

Get more out of Kushner, Inc.

The Reluctant Campaign Strategists

From Chaos to Victory: The Final Campaign Push

See every word as you hear it

The White House Years: Unprecedented Power and Conflicts

The Comey Firing and Its Aftermath

Get more out of Kushner, Inc.

Middle East Diplomacy and Business Entanglements

Salvation Through Brookfield and Legacy Questions

You made it to the end of Kushner, Inc.

Users also liked

Discover more

Overview of Kushner, Inc.