Shows
Expressions of LeadershipWhere Vision Meets Runways: Daniel Kebede on Systems, Storytelling & Leadership in Aviation DesignHost Michele Kawamoto Perry speaks with Daniel Kebede, co-founder of Abstract, in a conversation centered on leadership in complex systems. Together, they explore how reimagining airports requires not only good design but the ability to lead through ambiguity—aligning dozens of stakeholders, creating shared rituals, and using storytelling and empathy to move people toward a common vision.
Daniel reflects on the leadership lessons that shaped him, from mentorship to navigating the unprecedented disruptions brought on by COVID. He offers insights on how to balance innovation with operational constraints, cultivate disciplined processes without stifling creativity, and champion sustainability in...
2025-12-0255 min
Expressions of LeadershipBuilding, Pivoting, and Evolving: Julie Hurwitz on Leadership in the Music BusinessIn this episode, host Michele Kawamoto Perry welcomes Julie Hurwitz, Founder and CEO of Songbird Creative, to explore her journey from early record-label roles to building a boutique music licensing and strategy firm. Julie reflects on what it takes to hire well, build scalable systems, embrace automation, and pivot into new opportunities — including launching a recruiting arm to meet emerging industry needs. She also offers an inside look at guiding brands and artists through the complexities of sync licensing and the ever-evolving music landscape.
Throughout the conversation, Julie shares leadership insights on decisiveness, accessibility, mentorship, cultivating a te...
2025-11-2557 min
Expressions of LeadershipHeidi Ridley on Leadership, Integrity, and the Future of FinanceIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry interviews Heidi Ridley, a 35-year veteran of the financial services industry who has redefined what leadership looks like in finance. From pioneering ESG integration to co-founding Radiant Global Investors, Heidi has led global teams with integrity, vision, and a deep commitment to mentoring others and advancing inclusion across the industry.
Through candid reflections, Heidi shares the influences that shaped her path, the challenges that tested her resolve, and the principles that continue to guide her leadership. Listeners will gain insights into authentic, purpose-driven leadership, building accountable...
2025-11-1853 min
Expressions of LeadershipFrom Policy to People: The Leadership Journey of Khaim MortonIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry is joined by California Deputy Treasurer Khaim Morton, who traces his path from a file clerk at Warner Brothers to a seasoned public servant and strategist.
Khaim shares the leadership lessons he’s learned across politics, coaching, and community-building — lessons rooted in curiosity, adaptability, and connection. He discusses the importance of listening deeply, developing others, and staying flexible within complex systems, while creating sustainable frameworks that empower people and communities.
From mentoring emerging leaders to navigating the halls of government, Khaim offers a grounded and...
2025-11-1153 min
Expressions of LeadershipRedefining Leadership Through Humor and Humanity with Marc EngelHost Michele Kawamoto Perry sits down with Marc Engel — comedian, qualitative researcher, facilitator, and creative strategist — for a lively and insightful conversation about how improv, humor, and play can transform the way we lead and connect.
Marc shares his unconventional career journey, from comedy stages to corporate boardrooms, and how his Out of Focus Groups® and Blocks + Clay methods help organizations uncover authentic insight and innovation. Together, they explore how vulnerability, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected can help leaders navigate setbacks and spark deeper creativity and connection within their teams.
Learn more about...
2025-11-0456 min
Expressions of LeadershipThe Rhythm of Leadership: From Drumming to Storytelling with Christopher FieldenIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry talks with Christopher Fielden — award-winning author, drummer, and entrepreneur — about leading with empathy, adaptability, and creativity across music, business, and publishing.
Chris shares how respect, deep listening, and composure under pressure have guided his leadership, from navigating change to mentoring thousands of writers through his global competitions and creative community.
Learn more about Christopher Fielden at https://www.christopherfielden.com/. Connect with Christopher Fielden:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fielden.christopher
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherfielden/
Twitter: https://x.com/ChrisFielden
YouTube: https...
2025-10-2852 min
Expressions of LeadershipPowering the Future: Kara Demirjian Huss on Clean Energy, Communication, and LeadershipIn this conversation, host Michele Kawamoto Perry talks with Kara Demirjian Huss — Founder and President of DCC Marketing, Sr. Vice President and Global Marketing Director of TCCI Manufacturing, and President of DemirCo Properties and Real Estate Portfolios — about leading at the intersection of business, policy, and innovation. Kara discusses taking on a $20M downtown revitalization at 27, turning a marketing cost center into a national agency, rescuing and scaling a near-collapsed company, and creating the Clean Energy Innovation Hub through strategic public-private partnerships. Kara opens up about mentorship, building purpose-driven teams, navigating risk, and creating a legacy of innovation that empo...
2025-10-2156 min
Expressions of LeadershipData, Decisions, and Democracy: Leadership Lessons from Sucharita Kodali of The Election HubIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, Michele Kawamoto Perry sits down with Sucharita Kodali, retail analyst, civic innovator, and the driving force behind The Election Hub, a SEED20 initiative designed to help voters make informed choices in local elections.
Sucharita shares her journey from shaping consumer insights in the private sector to championing data-driven civic engagement. She opens up about the leadership lessons she’s learned along the way — from navigating ambiguity and building trust through transparency to using technology to empower communities rather than divide them.
Together, Michele and Sucharita explore what it mean...
2025-10-1451 min
Expressions of LeadershipRunaway Girl to Relentless Advocate: Carissa Phelps on Leadership and ChangeDisclaimer: This episode contains adult subject matter, including discussion of child sex trafficking, which may be distressing to some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
Carissa Phelps, a survivor of child sex trafficking, shares her remarkable journey from the streets to law school, filmmaking, and founding Runaway Girl. In this episode, she reflects on transforming personal trauma into purpose — leading with courage, empathy, and conviction.
Through survivor-led advocacy, landmark litigation, and systemic change, Carissa has redefined what leadership looks like when it’s informed by lived experience. She speaks candidly about the challenges of building a move...
2025-10-0856 min
Expressions of LeadershipLeashes, Lessons, and Leadership with Shakinah Brzezinski and Molly Leevan of Wunder dog TrainingHost Michele Kawamoto Perry sits down with canine behavior specialists and Wunderdogs co-founders Shakina Brzezinski and Molly Leevan. From their early days training horses to leading groundbreaking dog behavior programs, Shakina and Molly share how they’re challenging outdated dominance models with science, compassion, and connection.
Together, they explore what leadership looks like when it’s rooted in guidance rather than control—whether in the training ring, the workplace, or our communities. They discuss emotional mirroring between humans and dogs, the role of trust in transforming relationships, and how community leadership empowers both “spicy dogs” and their people.
2025-09-3055 min
Expressions of LeadershipLeading Through Rest and Rebellion: Laurie Hang on Redefining LeadershipIn this episode, Michele Kawamoto Perry speaks with Lori Hang, founder of Hike to Yoga, about her journey from a refugee camp to community leader, yoga therapist, and creative director. Lori shares how her immigrant upbringing, personal healing, and a passion for nature shaped a leadership style rooted in rest, creativity, and collective care.
Laurie offers candid insights about navigating burnout and growth, teaching mindful movement, and why slowing down can be a radical act of leadership. She also provides practical practices for getting unstuck and paints a vision for expanding community wellness through nature-based gatherings across...
2025-09-2355 min
Expressions of LeadershipRon Jenkins on Leadership, Healing, and the Power of StoryDisclaimer: This episode contains adult subject matter, including discussion of sexual abuse and homicide, which may be distressing to some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry speaks with Ron Jenkins, who shares his journey from a difficult childhood in foster care and the devastating loss of family, to discovering purpose through football, mentorship, and a career guiding youth as a counselor and coach.
Their conversation explores resilience, second chances, and the power of human connection. Ron reflects on how mentors shaped his leadership—and how, in...
2025-09-1656 min
Expressions of LeadershipLeadership, Longevity, and Lasting Change with Dr. Milan ChavarkarIn this episode, Dr. Milan Chavarkar shares her 25+ year leadership journey in women’s health — from serving as a nurse midwife and family nurse practitioner to founding Lotus Integrative Health and Nursing. She reflects on how deep listening, longer patient visits, and root-cause care inspired her move into functional and integrative medicine, and how the pandemic accelerated her leap into entrepreneurship.
Dr. Chavarkar also explores her expansion into venture investing, health AI, and her fertility-focused startup PriMi Health, highlighting the leadership challenges and opportunities in improving diagnosis, prevention, and clinician-centered innovation. Throughout the conversation, she reveals how ment...
2025-09-0952 min
Expressions of LeadershipCatapulting Change: Leadership, Equity and Career Readiness with Dr. Pamela DonnellyDr. Pamela Donnelly has spent her career opening doors—first as a teacher and education entrepreneur, and now as the founder of the American Access Institute. In this episode, she shares the story behind Catapult, an AI-powered career readiness platform designed to equip vulnerable youth, including those in foster care, with the skills and pathways to thrive in trades, tech, military, and entrepreneurship.
Host Michele Kawamoto Perry and Pamela explore how policy, public discourse, and technology intersect in the fight for equity, why scalable innovation matters, and what it takes to lead a vision from concept to na...
2025-09-0253 min
Expressions of LeadershipResilient Leadership: Kenneth Hartman's Journey from Incarceration to ImpactThis episode contains adult subject matter, including discussion of violence and homicide, which may be distressing to some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
Host Michele Kawamoto Perry sits down with Kenneth Hartman, award-winning writer and prison reform advocate, who spent more than 37 years serving a life-without-parole sentence before receiving a commutation. In this conversation, Ken reflects on his path from a troubled youth to founding the groundbreaking Honor Program inside a maximum-security prison, and now to leading Transformative Programming Works, bringing rehabilitative initiatives to California’s prisons.
Together, they explore resilience, human dignity, racial integration, an...
2025-08-2653 min
Expressions of LeadershipLeading Through Change: Staying Human in an Age of Transformation with Jennifer WildeIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry talks with Jennifer Wilde about leading in times of volatility and change. From emergency responses in Haiti and the Philippines to building AI tools for families and organizations, Jennifer brings clarity, empathy, and innovation to the conversation.
She shares practices like act–sense–respond, staying grounded under pressure, and reframing change as opportunity. They also explore human-centered innovation—responsible AI design, emotionally intelligent products like Lighten, and education platforms like Learn Leopard.
It’s a conversation about the future of leadership, where adaptability, experimentation, and the...
2025-08-1953 min
Expressions of LeadershipLeading from the Heart: A Graceful Revolution with Dr. Melissa BirdIn this episode of Expressions of Leadership, Dr. Melissa Bird—descendant of the Shivwits Band of Paiutes, lay preacher, healer, activist, and educator—shares her inspiring journey from personal loss to leading policy change. She offers profound insights into soulful leadership, emphasizing intuition, compassion, and the power of asking better questions. Together, we explore how acknowledging grief and embracing vulnerability can deepen connections and drive meaningful transformation in our communities.
Learn more about Dr. Melissa Bird:
Website: https://www.drmelissabird.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-bird-016640199/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrMelissaBird
Substack: https://substack...
2025-08-1254 min
Expressions of LeadershipThe Chemistry of Leadership with Mumbi DunjwaIn this enlightening episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry sits down with Mumbi Dunjwa, the visionary founder and CEO of Naturaz, a pioneering vegan haircare brand for curly hair. Mumbi shares insights from her remarkable journey that spans chemistry, nuclear medicine, and technology, revealing how her scientific roots have shaped her leadership style and entrepreneurial path.
Discover the profound influence of her parents in shaping her leadership philosophy and learn how her diverse experiences have fueled her mission to empower women in STEM and help people embrace and care for their natural hair with...
2025-08-0554 min
Expressions of LeadershipTackling Leadership from the NFL to Finance: The Journey of Luther R. Broughton Jr.From leading his younger siblings to becoming an NFL tight end, Luther R. Broughton Jr. has always understood what it means to show up with purpose. In this episode, he shares how early lessons in responsibility, resilience, and mentorship shaped his leadership style—on the field and beyond. He reflects on his time at Furman University, his journey through the NFL, and the influence of key figures like his college strength coach.
Now a financial leader at Rocket Mortgage, Luther brings the same discipline and drive to his professional life that he once brought to the game. We...
2025-07-2952 min
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 Project - Amy and Nancy HarringtonIn 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