In this episode, we sit down with Professor Jing Ai, a finance expert whose journey from growing up in China to shaping global business perspectives offers unique insights into risk management, financial strategy, and cross-cultural leadership. She shares personal stories—from unexpected career lessons to pivotal failures—and discusses how businesses and governments can navigate an unpredictable world.

We explore:

• How her upbringing in China and career in the U.S. influenced her views on global finance
• The biggest financial risks companies and policymakers are overlooking today
• Real-world examples of resilience in crisis (and what leaders can learn from them)
• Her advice for the next generation of leaders bridging business, policy, and impact

Whether you're in finance, entrepreneurship, or policy—or just curious about the forces shaping our economy—this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom.

What happens when a pre-med student takes a detour to India and discovers a passion for business? Meet Dr. Caroline Fry, Assistant Professor at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, whose career blends healthcare, economics, and policy in unexpected and exciting ways.

In this episode, Caroline shares her journey from medicine to academia and business research—and why she’s passionate about empowering the next generation of women to explore unconventional career paths. We discuss:

• How her time in India reshaped her career trajectory
• Why business and policy skills are game-changers in healthcare
• Advice for young women considering careers at the intersection of medicine, research, and entrepreneurship

Whether you’re drawn to healthcare, business, or just love a good career pivot story, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration.

In this episode, we sit down with Joy Sakurai, Chief Deputy of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Korea, to explore the world of diplomacy and how her upbringing in Hawaii shaped her path to becoming a U.S. diplomat. She shares how her local roots influenced her global perspective and how young people from diverse backgrounds can pursue careers in international affairs.

We discuss the realities of diplomacy, from managing U.S.-Korea relations to navigating high-level meetings with dignitaries. Joy offers insight into how diplomacy varies across countries, the challenges of representing the U.S. abroad, and how shifting global events shape foreign policy. She also shares lessons from balancing diplomacy, security, and economic policies—and what business leaders can learn from international relations.

For young leaders, this episode is an inspiring look at how a global career can start anywhere, including Hawaii. Whether you're interested in foreign policy, international business, or leadership, Joy’s journey and advice offer a powerful perspective on making an impact on the world stage.