Alison Wood Brooks, Harvard Business School professor and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves, shares research-backed insights on how to communicate with more clarity, confidence, and connection. Drawing from decades of data on real conversations, she introduces the TALK framework—Topics, Asking, Levity, and Kindness—and explains why even high-achieving leaders often miss the mark when it comes to listening and giving space. From social anxiety to overtalking, Alison offers practical strategies to help anyone—from CEOs to teenagers—navigate the art and science of talking well in a world full of noise.

Sheila Lirio Marcelo, founder of Care.com and Ohai.ai, shares her remarkable journey from young immigrant mother to tech founder and CEO. She opens up about the sacrifices behind entrepreneurship, the hidden costs of unpaid labor, and the systems she’s building to support families and restore connection. Sheila reflects on raising capital, staying data-driven while leading with heart, and the dualities of bold, authentic leadership. With wisdom forged in both business and life, she offers a compelling vision for how technology—and self-awareness—can help us lead better, live more fully, and love deeper.

Frank Lorenzo, legendary airline executive and author of Flying for Peanuts, reflects on the high-stakes world of aviation, business transformation, and leadership under fire. From pioneering low-cost fares and managing massive union battles to negotiating with Donald Trump and leading through tragedy, Frank shares lessons learned from decades in the cockpit of industry change. He also opens up about reputation, resilience, and the human cost of leadership, offering hard-earned wisdom for anyone navigating complexity, criticism, or crisis. This candid conversation sets the record straight—and shows what it really takes to lead during turbulent times.

Dana Maor, McKinsey senior partner and lead author of The Journey of Leadership, shares insights from her work advising global CEOs on how to lead from the inside out. Drawing on 26 years at McKinsey, Dana unpacks the new rules of leadership in an age of complexity, from embracing humility and inner agility to learning how to be vulnerable without losing authority. She also explores the powerful dynamics of team psychology—why everyone keeps things from the boss, how leaders can uncover their own triggers, and how to build trust across top teams. Packed with research, real stories, and actionable tools, this episode is a roadmap for anyone ready to lead with greater self-awareness, impact, and clarity.

Debra Whitman, economist and AARP executive, shares research and wisdom from her new book, The Second Fifty: Answers to the 7 Big Questions of Midlife and Beyond. From longevity and brain health to working longer, affording retirement, and redefining purpose, Debra offers a clear-eyed yet hopeful look at what it takes to age well in America today. She also breaks down the biggest myths around memory loss, long-term care, and how your zip code affects your lifespan—and provides actionable advice for individuals, families, and employers alike.

Kristen Welch, author and founder of Mercy House Global, shares the lessons she’s learned about parenting, contentment, and living with purpose. After a life-changing trip to Kenya, Kristin shifted how she raised her three kids—choosing gratitude, service, and intentional boundaries over comfort and entitlement. She explains how small, everyday practices—like family dinners, gratitude jars, and thoughtful giving—can help families counter cultural pressure and raise kids who are both joyful and grounded.

Michael Chad Hoeppner, communication expert and author of Don’t Say Um: How to Communicate Effectively to Live a Better Life, shares practical tools for becoming a more confident, intentional speaker. Drawing from years of coaching C-suite executives and presidential candidates, he explains why delivery—not content—is what makes or breaks communication. From filler words and mumbling to posture, breath, and pausing, this conversation is packed with strategies to help you ditch self-consciousness, speak with precision, and connect more powerfully in every conversation. Whether you're giving a speech or ordering salad dressing, this episode will help you show up—and speak up—better.

Sara Jane Ho, global etiquette expert, Netflix host, and author of Mind Your Manners, shares practical, empowering advice for navigating today’s social and professional world with confidence and kindness. From setting boundaries and making introductions to handling awkward dinner party moments and thank-you notes, Sara explains how etiquette isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present, thoughtful, and adaptable. With charm, candor, and wisdom, she shows how small acts of grace can help you stand out, connect meaningfully, and become your best self in any situation.