Shows
Expressions of LeadershipElevating Education Through Connection, Courage, and Leadership with Ricardo HernandezIn this episode, host Michele Kawamoto Perry sits down with Ricardo Hernandez, principal of Seneca Valley High School and a dynamic voice in education leadership. A native of Puerto Rico, Ricardo shares his journey from an emerging multilingual learner—who picked up English by watching soap operas—to leading one of the largest high schools on the East Coast. He reflects on his transition from a career in sales to education, his direct and values-driven leadership style, and his deep commitment to supporting students and staff. Tune in for a compelling conversation on representation, courageous leadership, and the future of t...2025-07-1557 min
Expressions of LeadershipLeading By Becoming: From MTV to Museum Walls with Rob GradIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry sits down with Rob Grad, a renowned multidisciplinary artist whose path is marked by creativity, reinvention, and resilience.
From his early days as a member of a rock band signed to RCA Records to his bold leap into visual art—sparked by a life-changing trip to Europe—Rob shares how following his intuition led to profound transformation. His work, including museum exhibits and a TEDx talk, reflects his commitment to authenticity and creative exploration.
Rob opens up about the influence of the MTV generation, the...2025-07-0156 min
Expressions of LeadershipStewarding Legacy: John Elliott on Leadership, Culture, and CommunityIn this episode, Michele Kawamoto Perry is joined by John Elliott, CEO of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, for a compelling conversation about leadership rooted in purpose, growth, and legacy.
John shares how he's helped shape a resilient and values-driven culture across Chumash Enterprises — from navigating the pandemic to launching innovative sustainability efforts like a zero-waste-certified resort.
He also reflects on his leadership philosophy, the unique lessons he’s learned from working with tribal nations, and how he and his team are charting a course to serve both the tribe and the broader comm...2025-06-1749 min
Expressions of LeadershipStorytelling, Sisterhood, and Social Change with the Founders of the Passionistas ProjectIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, we explore the inspiring journey of sisters Amy and Nancy Harrington, founders of The Passionistas Project. After successful careers in Hollywood, they shifted their focus to a new mission—amplifying women’s voices through storytelling, advocacy, and community-building.
Amy and Nancy share how their experiences in the entertainment industry and their response to cultural shifts shaped their path to creating a vibrant sisterhood rooted in authenticity, vulnerability, and empowerment.
Join us as we dive into their insights on authentic leadership, the realities of being female entrepreneurs, and the powe...2025-06-0354 min
Expressions of LeadershipRooted in Nature: Brent Green on Leadership by DesignIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry talks with Brent Green, founder of Green Art Landscape Designs. From gardening with his grandmother to crafting serene outdoor retreats for clients like Lionel Richie and Ozzy Osbourne, Brent shares how his early connection to nature blossomed into a career rooted in creativity, service, and leadership.
Brent reflects on how the natural world shapes his leadership philosophy—grounded, intentional, and collaborative. He offers insights into designing with purpose, adapting to client needs, and cultivating a team culture that thrives on creativity and trust. His story is a...2025-05-2049 min
Expressions of LeadershipPlanning with Purpose: Debra Koven on Life, Law, and LeadershipJoin host Michele Kawamoto Perry in a compelling conversation with attorney and international best-selling author Debra Koven, as they explore her transition from litigation to estate planning. Drawing from her book 100 Percent Mortality: 15 Stories of Excuses, Mistakes, and Misunderstandings in Estate Planning, Debra shares how her leadership philosophy—rooted in empathy, education, and authenticity—guides her work with clients and informs every aspect of her practice. Through candid stories and hard-earned wisdom, she reflects on balancing a demanding legal career with family life, and how her values have become the foundation of her approach to law, leadership, and service.
...2025-05-0655 min
Expressions of LeadershipFrom Dreams to Deadlines: Dean Arrindell’s Journey of Storytelling and Leadership in News MediaIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry welcomes Dean Arrindell, senior producer at Yahoo News, who brings nearly 30 years of experience in media production. Dean shares his journey — from aspiring to work at NBC to becoming a seasoned leader in the fast-paced world of news media.
Dean reflects on the role of authentic leadership, the demands of producing live television, and the critical importance of teamwork and building strong rapport. He offers insights into how knowledge, experience, and human connection fuel compelling storytelling and effective leadership.
Through personal stories and professional le...2025-04-2926 min
Expressions of LeadershipFrom Silence to Service: A Journey into Heart-Centered Leadership with Aaron StrykerIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry speaks with Aaron Stryker, co-founder and executive director of Dharma Gates, a nonprofit making deep meditation retreats accessible to young adults. Aaron shares how his journey—from discovering Ashtanga Yoga at 18 to practicing at a Zen monastery—inspired him to create spaces for young people to explore meditation as a tool for resilience and self-discovery. He reflects on his unexpected path to leadership, lessons learned while building Dharma Gates, and how Buddhist values like wisdom and compassion guide his approach. Aaron also offers advice on navigating life with inte...2025-04-1543 min
Expressions of LeadershipBeyond the Applause: Mimi Donaldson on Powerful Speaking and Authentic LeadershipJoin us on this episode of Expressions of Leadership for a compelling conversation with renowned speaker and TEDx coach Mimi Donaldson. With over 20 years of experience, Mimi has captivated audiences from the Fortune 100 to the just plain fortunate. Now, she’s sharing her journey from acclaimed keynote speaker to sought-after speech coach.
Host Michele Kawamoto Perry explores Mimi’s unique approach to leadership and communication, diving into her seven-step formula that ensures no one is ever boring on stage. Discover how Mimi’s philosophy—“lead with the need”—and her core values of honesty, integrity, humor, and fun shape her...2025-04-0130 min
Expressions of LeadershipEmpowering Patients, Transforming Care: Dr. Kate Hernandez’s Leadership JourneyIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, Michele Kawamoto Perry speaks with Dr. Kate Hernandez, founder of Therapy In Motion, a mobile physical therapy practice redefining elderly care with personalized, at-home treatment, and co-founder of K.I.C.K. (Knowledge Is Cancer’s Kryptonite), a nonprofit dedicated to providing genetic counseling and testing for those impacted by cancer. Dr. Kate shares the inspiration behind these initiatives, her mission to empower seniors and combat ageism, and the role of genetic testing in cancer prevention.
Listen in as Dr. Kate discusses how her personal experiences have shaped her approach to...2025-03-1846 min
Expressions of LeadershipThe Power of Passionate Leadership: Adam Dempsey's JourneyJoin us on this episode of Expressions of Leadership as we delve into the inspiring journey of Adam Dempsey, a senior at Loyola High School in Los Angeles. Adam shares his passion for youth development and systemic reform, with a focus on the foster care system and legal advocacy. Discover how Adam's leadership style fosters dialogue, inclusivity, and a shared vision among peers and foster youth. Through initiatives like an after-school tutoring program and community events, Adam exemplifies collaborative leadership and the power of passion in making a significant impact. Tune in for valuable insights and stories of triumph...2025-03-1222 min
Expressions of LeadershipLeading with Vision: Sam Sokolow on Creativity, Integrity, and Building CommunityIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, two-time Emmy Award-nominated producer Sam Sokolow—best known for his work on the acclaimed series Genius—shares his insights on leadership, creativity, and community-building in the film industry. He explores the core principles that guide his approach, including being solution-oriented, honest, and a good listener. Sam also reflects on his journey from Los Angeles to South Carolina and how it’s shaping his vision for fostering a strong, creative film community. From academia to production, his experiences offer valuable lessons on leading with authenticity and purpose. Whether you're a film enthusiast or an asp...2025-03-0444 min
Expressions of LeadershipZen and the Art of Leadership: Christopher Keevil on Trust, Mindfulness, and Mission-Driven WorkJoin us for an inspiring episode of Expressions of Leadership as Christopher Keevil, founder of Wellspring Consulting, shares his journey from the Boston Consulting Group to building Wellspring Consulting, a mission-driven firm dedicated to helping nonprofits address strategic challenges and achieve results. He opens up about authentic leadership, creating a thriving organization, and how Zen principles shape his approach. Chris emphasizes the power of attentive observation, managing reactivity, and fostering trust and vulnerability in the workplace. Plus, he dives into the themes of his book, Finding Zen in the Ordinary, and reflects on mentorship and the importance of leading...2025-02-1839 min
Expressions of LeadershipLeading with Humor and Strength: Shayla Height on Authenticity, Entrepreneurship, and EmpowermentIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, entrepreneur Shayla Height shares how authenticity, humor, and courage shape her leadership and creative ventures. She discusses the inspiration behind WTF Mama, her bold comic series celebrating outspoken women, and how her streetwear brand Full Bloom Savage redefines menopause with style and confidence. Tune in for an engaging conversation on leadership, resilience, and the power of community among women.
Find out more about WTF Mama and Full Bloom Savage:
WTF Mama
Kickstarter Link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/wtfmama/what-the-f-ck-mama
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefuckmama/
Website: say...2025-02-0441 min
Expressions of LeadershipRedefining Leadership in the Age of AI and Web3 with Deborah Perry Piscione and Josh DreanIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, we speak with Debra Perry Piscioni and Josh Drean, cofounders of Work3 Institute and authors of the upcoming book Employment is Dead: How Disruptive Technologies Are Revolutionizing the Way We Work. Together, we explore the future of work, the power of emerging technologies like AI and Web3 and how embracing empathy and innovation can transform workplaces. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation about adapting to workforce changes and uncovering the leadership potential in everyone.
Learn more about Deborah and Josh:
Employment is Dead book release through Harvard Business Rev...2025-01-2139 min
Expressions of LeadershipKatie Chin: Celebrity Chef, Award-winning cookbook author, and Culinary Ambassador to the National Pediatric Cancer FoundationIn today's episode, we sit down with celebrity chef Katie Chin, an award-winning cookbook author and culinary ambassador. She's also an inspiring leader who has made appearances on platforms like The Today Show and even at the White House.
Katie brings her unique perspective on leadership, influenced by her rich experience in corporate roles and her journey in the culinary world. From being an executive at Disney to becoming an entrepreneur and chef, Katie shares compelling insights about staying nimble, embracing change, and fostering creativity.
Join us as we explore how Katie Chin navigates the...2025-01-0727 min
Let's Talk Leadership with BanangkurDeveloping Leaders for Over 20 Years and her Passion ContinuesI’ve always said my podcasts are ‘conversations with inspiring leaders from around the world’.In the podcast before last we were in Nepal. The one before this, in Bahrain and now the US – Los Angeles.My guest this week is Michele Kawamoto Perry. Michele has been involved in leadership development for over 20 years. She’s a Certified Master of The Leadership Challenge, among the other qualifications she has acquired over the years to help leaders and organizations be more successful.She has a qualification from Cornell University in Diversity and Inclusion.And she’...2023-07-1042 min