Insights on MbS from Karen Elliot House Interview

In this conversation, Marco Ponce interviews Karen Elliott House, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author, about her new book, ‘The Man Who Would Be King: Mohammed bin Salman and the Transformation of Saudi Arabia.’ They discuss House’s extensive background in Saudi Arabia, the rise of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), his ambitious Vision 2030 plan, and the implications of his leadership style on Saudi Arabia’s future. The conversation also touches on MBS’s regional influence, the evolving cultural landscape in Saudi Arabia, and the potential for Saudi-Israeli relations. House provides insights into MBS’s unique approach to leadership, his lavish spending, and the challenges he faces in balancing modernization with traditional values.

This interview was conducted on 2025-07-06 and premiered on 2025-07-07 with the Monday edition of the Watchman Report.

Karen’s book on MbS is scheduled to be released on 2025-07-08.

Takeaways

• Karen Elliott House has a long history of reporting on Saudi Arabia.
• MBS is reshaping Saudi Arabia with bold ideas and rapid changes.
• The Crown Prince’s rise to power was unexpected but strategic.
• MBS’s leadership style is unconventional for a Saudi leader.
• Vision 2030 aims to diversify the Saudi economy beyond oil.
• Saudi Arabia’s regional diplomacy is evolving under MBS.
• Cultural shifts in Saudi Arabia are significant, especially for women.
• MBS’s lavish spending raises questions about his leadership priorities.
• The future of Saudi-Israeli relations is complex and uncertain.
• MBS’s ambitions could lead to significant changes in the Middle East.

To purchase a copy of Karen’s 2025 biography on MbS click here.