The founder and president of the Virgin Group -- with ownership of some 200 companies in over 30 countries and interests in travel, tourism, and resorts on a few continents -- tells BlackBook about his humble beginnings, having luck on his side, hoping that airline hero Sully may join the team, and his obsession with sticky puddings.

How did you get your start in business?
I left school and started Student Magazine from out of a call box. It turned out to be the best decision I ever made. I found out that a lot of school was a waste of time for me. The magazine was my education. Then I started on the record side, and it turned out to be more fun. And that took over.

Right now, you’re in the air. What kind of phone are you using to make this call?
We’re basically using wifi, and by next month, we’ll be the only airline in the world with full Internet. You can use your Blackberry up here. Business people can spend their hours working, and kids will have access to the net.