Host 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 Marc Engel at 1marcengel.com and Blocks + Clay at BlocksAndClay.com. Connect with Marc at https://www.linkedin.com/in/1marcengel/Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.  

In 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://www.youtube.com/@ChristopherFielden Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/christopherfielden.bsky.social Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.  

In 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 empowers people and communities. Learn more about Kara Demirjian Huss and DCC Marketing at www.dccmarketing.com. You can also learn more about TCCI and the Clean Energy Hub at https://tccimfg.com/ Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.      

In 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 means to lead with clarity and purpose in an age of information overload, and how informed voices can help build stronger, more connected communities. Connect with Sucharita Kodali at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sucharitamulpuru/ Learn more about and get involved with The Election Hub at https://www.theelectionhub.org/ You can also check out The Election Hub at Seed20 https://www.seed20.org/project/election-hub/ Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.  

Disclaimer: 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 movement, the power of resilience, and what it takes to hold institutions accountable while creating pathways for survivors to heal and thrive. Learn more about Carissa Phelps at  https://survivor.lawyer/ Connect with the Survivors First Community at https://www.survivorsfirst.community/ Learn more about The Backpage Remission Program at https://backpageremission.com/en and the Back Page Remission Network at https://www.backpageremissionnetwork.org/ Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

Host 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. Learn more about Wunderdogs at  https://www.wunderdogtrainers.com/. Find them on Instagram at  https://www.instagram.com/wunderdogtraining/. Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

In 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 Los Angeles County and beyond. Join us for this conversation about leading with intention, honoring rest, and building community in ways that challenge productivity culture and celebrate belonging.Learn more about Laurie Hang and Hike to Yoga: Fall 2025 Yoga Therapy Enrollment Now Open Align with autumn’s rhythm, nurture your nervous system, and grow stronger with each breath. www.lauriehang.com   Saturday, October 4th Mini Urban Retreat in Los Angeles Details, RSVP & Donate www.hiketoyoga.org Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

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 turn, he has dedicated his life to leading and mentoring others. This is a powerful story of healing, leadership, and purpose—one that shows how investing in others can transform lives.Connect with Ron:Email: Rongolf6807@gmail.comInstagram @lifechanger06LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-jenkins-60b5747a/ Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.  

In 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 mentorship, purpose, and human connection have shaped her leadership philosophy and continue to drive her vision for women’s health. Connect with Dr. Milan Chavarkar at https://www.linkedin.com/in/milanchavarkar/ Learn more about  Lotus Integrative Health and Nursing: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lotusihn/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lotusintegrativehealth Website: https://www.lotusintegrativehealth.com/ Discover PriMi Health at https://www.primihealth.ai/ Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.  

Dr. 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 national impact. Along the way, Pamela reflects on the leadership lessons she’s learned—both from the systems she’s challenged and the students she’s championed. If you care about access, opportunity, and leading change that lasts, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger about what’s possible. Learn more about Dr. Pamela Donnelly at www.pameladonnelly.com and the American Access Institute at https://americanaccessinstitute.org/.  Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.  

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, and the power of agency. Ken shares leadership lessons forged behind bars, the influence of mentors and fatherhood, and how lived experience can shape policy and inspire lasting systemic change.Learn more about Kenneth Hartman and Transformative Programming Works at www.thetpw.org. Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

In 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 right questions matter as much as strategy. Connect with Jennifer Wilde at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-wilde-innovation/.  You can also learn more about Learn Leopard athttps://learnleopard.com/ and Lighten at https://www.trylighten.com/ Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

In 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.com/@birdgirl1001 Buy her Book, Love Notes and Prayers: Guidance for Your Soul, at https://store.bookbaby.com/book/love-notes-and-prayers Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

In 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 ease, beauty, and grace. Mumbi’s candid reflections on resilience and the pursuit of innovation provide valuable lessons for aspiring leaders. Connect with Mumbi Dunjwa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumbi-dunjwa/ Learn more about Naturaz: www.naturaz.com,  www.moistureburst.com.Facebook @NaturazhairInstagram, TikTok, YouTube, & Pinterest @naturaz_hair Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

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 explore the parallels between sports and business, the value of being a role player, and the mindset needed to lead through change. It’s a conversation about growth, grit, and the power of leading from wherever you are. Follow Luther on X and Instagram @rashard84. Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

In 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 transformative education.You can follow Ricardo on X @RHernandezMCPS. Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also listen to the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

In 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 healing power of art, and how discomfort can be a powerful catalyst for growth. Whether you're a budding artist or a leader seeking to live and lead more authentically, Rob’s story is a compelling testament to the power of embracing the unknown, taking risks, and staying true to your creative voice. Learn more about Rob Grad at:http://robgrad.comhttp://facebook.com/RobGradArtInstagram: @rob_gradCheck out his mini course for mining creative ideas: https://stan.store/outermindmethod/p/the-outer-mind-methodDon't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. You can also listen to the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.    

In 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 community for generations to come. Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

In 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 power of collaboration in driving meaningful change. This is a conversation about creating space—for women to lead, connect, and thrive. Learn more about the Passionistas Project: info@thepassionistasprojectcomhttps://www.thepassionistasproject.com/Instagram & Facebook: @thepassionistasproject Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

In 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 powerful reminder that leadership, like a great garden, grows best with care, vision, and a deep respect for the environment. Learn more about Brent Green:Instagram: @greenartlandscapela Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.