The Dr. Rod Berger Channel - Stories That Meet The Moment

Embracing Uncertainty: How to Navigate Life and Work in a Changing World

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Embracing Uncertainty: How to Navigate Life and Work in a Changing World

Discover strategies for thriving amidst uncertainty. Learn from Matthew Caldwell's journey in HR and personal growth, and find your path to resilience.

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us grapple with uncertainty—both in our personal lives and within our careers. How can we embrace this uncertainty and transform it into opportunity? In this blog post, we will explore insights from Matthew Caldwell, an organizational development director who shares his journey through personal and professional challenges. From his humble beginnings in a grocery store to navigating the complexities of HR in a state government, Matthew's experiences offer valuable lessons on resilience and adaptability.

About Matthew Caldwell

Matthew Caldwell is the Director of Organizational Development for the Maine Secretary of State Office. His experience spans various sectors, from grocery retail to healthcare recruitment, and he has played a pivotal role in making Maine a certified age-friendly employer. With a unique blend of humor and insight, Matthew discusses the importance of human connections in the workplace and how they shape our experiences.

The Power of Personal Storytelling

Matthew believes that our personal stories significantly influence our professional paths. He emphasizes that understanding one’s narrative can help individuals navigate through challenging times. "We live in a world where our personal and professional lives are intertwined," he explains. This perspective is crucial in organizations, as it allows for a more human-centric approach to leadership and employee engagement.

Why this matters: In an era where workplaces often prioritize productivity over people, recognizing the value of storytelling can create a supportive environment.

-How to apply it: Encourage team members to share their stories, fostering a culture of openness and understanding in your organization.

Navigating the Gray in Organizational Culture

Matthew’s approach to organizational culture is centered around what he calls "navigating the gray." This involves addressing complex situations that traditional policies may not cover. He notes, "You either name it, or it eats you." This mindset encourages leaders to confront difficult issues head-on rather than avoid them.

Common mistake: Many organizations shy away from addressing uncomfortable topics, which can lead to unresolved conflict and a toxic work environment.

Actionable step: Develop frameworks for open discussions around sensitive issues, allowing for a more inclusive workplace where everyone’s voice is heard.

Building Resilience Through Adaptability

Matthew’s journey is marked by his ability to embrace the unknown. From his early days managing a grocery store to transitioning into HR and then state-level organizational development, he has consistently thrived in unfamiliar situations.

Why this matters: In today’s rapidly changing work environment, adaptability is essential for both personal and organizational success.

How to cultivate it: Foster a culture of continuous learning where employees feel empowered to step outside their comfort zones and explore new roles or responsibilities.

The Importance of Community and Support

Matthew's experiences highlight the significance of community support, especially during challenging times. He shares how therapy and supportive leadership helped him navigate personal struggles, leading to a renewed focus on helping others.

Key insight: Leadership is not just about managing tasks; it’s also about supporting your team through their personal challenges.

Actionable step: Implement mentorship programs within your organization to help employees find guidance and support as they navigate their careers.

Conclusion

Embracing uncertainty is not just a personal journey; it’s a collective organizational effort. By focusing on storytelling, addressing the gray areas, fostering adaptability, and building supportive networks, we can create workplaces that thrive amidst change. As Matthew Caldwell reminds us, it’s about being part of others' stories while navigating our own.

So what?This approach not only benefits individuals but also strengthens the organization as a whole.

Next step: Reflect on your own story and consider how it shapes your work. Engage with your team, share experiences, and together, navigate the uncertainties of the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can storytelling enhance workplace culture?

Storytelling fosters connection and empathy among team members, creating a more supportive and understanding work environment.

What does it mean to navigate the gray in organizational culture?

Navigating the gray means addressing complex and nuanced situations that may not fit neatly within existing policies, allowing for a more human approach to leadership.

How can organizations support employees through personal challenges?

Implementing mentorship programs and fostering open communication can provide employees with the support they need during challenging times.

Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.

Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

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How to Harness the Power of Storytelling in Your Life: Insights from Dr. Darin Eich, a CultureCon Catalyst

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 8 Apr 2026 18:15:29 +0000

How to Harness the Power of Storytelling in Your Life: Insights from Dr. Darin Eich, a CultureCon Catalyst

Learn how to leverage storytelling for personal growth and connection. Dr. Darin shares insights that resonate with anyone looking to enhance their narrative skills.

Storytelling is not just for authors or filmmakers; it’s a powerful tool that can enhance your life and career. I sat down with Dr. Darin, a renowned expert in innovation and storytelling, to explore how we can all harness the power of narrative to foster connection and personal growth.

About Dr. Darin

Dr. Darin is an innovative leader in storytelling and personal development, with a wealth of experience from organizations like NASA, Adobe, and Nike. His work focuses on helping individuals and teams discover their unique narratives, making him a trusted voice in the world of storytelling.

The Importance of Storytelling in Personal Growth

Dr. Darin believes that storytelling plays a crucial role in self-discovery. He encourages individuals to view their lives through the lens of the hero's journey, a concept popularized by Joseph Campbell. This framework allows us to identify pivotal moments in our lives and understand how they shape us. By recognizing our own narratives, we can better articulate our experiences and connect with others.

Why You Should Embrace Storytelling

- Fosters Connection**: Sharing stories creates bonds between people, making interactions more meaningful.

- Enhances Communication**: A well-told story can convey complex ideas simply and effectively.

- Promotes Reflection**: Reflecting on your own stories can lead to personal insights and growth.

How to Find Your Story

Dr. Darin emphasizes the importance of introspection in discovering your narrative. He suggests several strategies:

- Identify Your Pivotal Moments**: Think about significant events in your life that have shaped who you are today. What lessons did you learn?

- Practice Telling Your Story**: Share your story with friends or family to refine your narrative. This will help you gain confidence in your storytelling abilities.

- Use the Hero's Journey Framework**: Consider how your experiences align with the stages of the hero's journey. This can help you structure your story effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When crafting your story, be cautious of these pitfalls:

- Overcomplicating Your Narrative**: Keep your story focused and relatable.

- Neglecting Your Audience**: Tailor your story to resonate with your listeners.

- Failing to Practice**: The more you practice, the more natural your storytelling will become.

Key Takeaways

- Storytelling is a vital skill for personal and professional growth.

- Embrace the hero's journey to find deeper meaning in your experiences.

- Practice sharing your story to build connections and improve your narrative skills.

In conclusion, storytelling is an invaluable tool that everyone can benefit from. By recognizing and refining your own narrative, you can foster deeper connections and enhance your personal growth. Want to dive deeper into the art of storytelling? Check out Dr. Darin's resources and workshops for more insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hero's journey?

The hero's journey is a narrative framework that outlines the stages a hero goes through in a story, including their call to adventure, challenges faced, and eventual transformation.

How can storytelling enhance my career?

Storytelling can improve your communication skills, making it easier to convey ideas, connect with colleagues, and engage audiences effectively.

What are some tips for effective storytelling?

Focus on clarity, practice regularly, and tailor your stories to your audience's interests and experiences.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Large Language Models, Not Large Meaning Models with CJ Casciotta

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 2 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

There's a moment in every room, every strategy session, every family dinner where someone finally says the thing everyone has been circling. Not a new idea, necessarily, but the buried one. The one that was always there, underneath the decks and the dashboards and the nervous small talk. CJ Casciotta has built a career around finding that moment, and in this episode, we sit down to talk about what happens when you stop treating storytelling as decoration and start treating it as the essential work of making sense of a world that refuses to slow down.

CJ and I go back years, and what has always struck me about him is the way he walks into a situation without a predetermined frame. He doesn't arrive with a deliverable in hand. He arrives with questions, and then he digs. He calls it meaning archaeology, this practice of excavating the thing under the thing until a team, a brand, a community can look at what surfaces and say, "Yes, that is what we have been trying to say." It sounds simple. It is not. And it matters now more than it ever has, because we are not living in an era starved for information or attention. We are living in an era starving for formation, for someone who can take the noise and the fragments and turn them into a narrative people can actually hold onto, repeat, and act on.

We talk about Reculture, the message studio CJ runs, and what it means to call it a message studio rather than a branding agency or a content shop. The distinction is deliberate. For CJ, messaging strategy looks less like traditional brand guidelines and more like sense-making. Content looks less like posts optimized for clicks and more like what he calls artifacts, pieces that make a story legible in public. That framing alone is worth sitting with: not content as filler, not content as performance, but content as evidence of a story that actually exists beneath the surface.

The conversation opens up wide when we get into the tension CJ describes as myth morphing. Every organization, every community, every family carries myths, stories that have held things together for years, sometimes generations. Right now, those myths are being stretched and pulled by cultural volatility, political upheaval, technological disruption, and the sheer speed of change. The question CJ keeps returning to is not whether these myths should change. They will. The question is how you hold onto the center of gravity, the essential truth inside the myth, while letting the rest morph so it stays relevant. And he is honest about the fact that nobody has a playbook for this. Not the smartest executive, not the most decorated strategist. We are all improvising in real time, and that admission itself feels like a kind of clarity.

We spend a good stretch of the episode on AI, and what I appreciate about CJ's take is its groundedness. He is not breathless about it and he is not despairing. He is paying attention. He notices that AI has a remarkably identifiable writing voice, and that this actually creates an opening for humans who are willing to do the harder, slower work of cultivating their own voice. In a feed full of outputs that all sound the same, the thing that jumps out is the thing that feels unmistakably human. He makes a point that stopped me: these are large language models, not large meaning models. Language and meaning are not the same thing. We can automate language at scale. We cannot automate the excavation of what that language should actually mean. That work still belongs to us, and it is more valuable now precisely because it is harder to replicate.

We also talk about Reculture Live, an event CJ recently produced that brought together immigrants, educators, journalists, activists, and people of faith to sit in close proximity with each other's stories. He opened the event by asking, essentially, why would a message studio put on something like this? His answer is that if you claim to help organizations make sense of this cultural moment, you have to be doing your own research. You have to get close to the people living inside the narratives that everyone else is debating from a distance. What surprised him most was the hope. Not naive optimism, but a grounded, lived-in conviction from people on the ground that there are ways through this time to something on the other side.

We close with a conversation about fatherhood, because CJ and I are both dads navigating the same questions every parent faces in a world flooded with screens and shrinking attention spans. His advice is disarmingly simple and entirely earned: curiosity. Not as a buzzword, but as a daily practice. Teaching your kids to use the tools in front of them to discover rather than to numb. And he is quick to say that this starts with us. If we are not staying curious ourselves, researching what our kids are consuming, making hard calls about which platforms stay and which ones go, then we cannot expect them to develop the muscle on their own. It is the oxygen mask principle applied to meaning-making: you have to breathe it in before you can offer it to anyone else.

This episode is for anyone who feels the gap between the messages swirling around them and the reality they are actually living. It is for leaders trying to align their teams around something true, for creators wondering what their voice is worth in an age of automation, and for parents who want to raise humans who stay human. CJ Casciotta is doing the work, and this conversation is a window into how and why it matters.

You can learn more about CJ and Reculture at reculture.tv, find his TEDx talk, or pick up his books, Get Weird and The Forgotten Art of Being Ordinary. You can get your copy of The Narrative Edge wherever books are sold. And remember, if you are not in control of your story, well, who is?

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Taryn Smith Ventures Across The Atlantic Ocean Alone

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger, Taryn Smith) — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:09:04 +0000

THE NARRATIVE EDGE

A Podcast with Dr. Rod Berger

Presented by RIGGG Productions

GUEST: TARYN SMITH

Solo Ocean Rower| The World’s Toughest Row

46 Days, 3 Hours, 37 Minutes |December 14 – January 29

Episode Overview

In this episode, Dr. Rod Berger sits down with Taryn Smith, who completed a solo row across the Atlantic Ocean as part of the World’s Toughest Row—spending 46 days, 3 hours, and 37 minutes alone on a 24-foot boat. What unfolds is a conversation about courage, vulnerability, the surprising difficulty of preparation, and a redefined relationship with time, discomfort, and adventure.

Key Topics

• The seven weeks of solo training in an English marina—and why Taryn calls them harder than the crossing itself

• Day 27: the viral video about sun hives, sleeplessness, and a marlin stalking her boat

• How time “melted” on the open ocean and what monotony teaches about suffering

• Joe March, the storm petrel who became her daily companion

• Cleaning the underside of the boat alone in open water

• Her partnership with Girls on the Run and the message she hopes to leave behind

• Why ocean rowing may be less risky than the comfort-driven lives we lead on land

• The yoga philosophy behind her mantra: “Being uncomfortable is human”

About the Guest

Taryn Smith is a solo ocean rower and yoga teacher from Nebraska. She competed in the World’s Toughest Row, crossing the Atlantic Ocean alone from December 14 to January 29. She signed up for the race at age 22 with no prior rowing experience. She is a partner of Girls on the Run and an advocate for approaching life with curiosity and bravery.

Website: tarynsmithmovement.com

Notable Quotes

“Ocean rowing is less risky than people think. And life on land is more risky than people think.” — Taryn Smith

“Being brave is being scared and doing it anyway.” — Taryn Smith

“All weather passes. Regardless of what you’re feeling, how you’re feeling, it’s going to end at some point.” — Taryn Smith

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Recoverable Failure & The Gravity that Governs Flight with Richard Browning of Gravity Industries

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 19:46:40 +0000

Richard Browning, founder of Gravity Industries and creator of the world's first human jet suit, explores how his late father's garage workshop and unfinished dreams shaped his approach to innovation. The conversation centers on why society must embrace what Browning calls recoverable failure, making inevitable setbacks survivable financially, reputationally, and physically, so that dreaming and experimentation can persist across generations. He also examines how social media and cultural intolerance for mistakes are quietly eroding the curiosity and creative agency young people need most.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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The Accidental Leader - Emad Rahim - Refugee - Author - Leader

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 18:12:48 +0000

Join me as I capture, live on stage, the story of Dr. Emad Rahim during Quantum Leap 2026, presented by N2N Services, Inc. and LightLeapAI.

Emad Rahim — born in a concentration camp during the Khmer Rouge Genocide in Cambodia, raised as a stateless refugee in Brooklyn, and now a three-time doctorate holder, Fulbright Scholar, TEDx speaker, and award-winning educator — sits down for a fireside chat with N2N's Storyteller in Residence, Dr. Rod Berger, about the intersection of technology, education, and the power of human storytelling.

Key Topics Covered:

Emad's journey from a dyslexic, first-generation college student to an acclaimed educator and author
The role mentors played in redirecting his life at critical moments
How AI and competency-based learning can level the playing field in education
COVID's impact on young people's social skills and mental health — and how AI can help
The power of vulnerability and storytelling as tools for human connection
Using AI to enhance (not replace) the storytelling experience
The "Choose Your Own Adventure" metaphor for navigating an AI-driven future
Accessibility of technology and its potential to celebrate culture and community

Notable Quotes:

"It took a vice principal at a high school to see something in me and refuse to give up on me."
"I would say I'm a storyteller… I know my story more than anybody else."
"When you allow people to be vulnerable, they take advantage of it right away."
"I think with the resources available, they can choose their own adventure."
"There's a sense of fear that exists, and it's natural… but there also needs to be a sense of opportunity."

Guest Bio: Emad Rahim was born in a Cambodian concentration camp during the Khmer Rouge Genocide and arrived in Brooklyn as a stateless refugee in the 1980s. Once a dyslexic student who barely graduated high school, he went on to earn three doctorates, become a Fulbright Scholar, TEDx speaker, and college dean. He is an award-winning educator, acclaimed author, and globally recognized motivational speaker, profiled in Forbes, HuffPost, StoryCorps, and PBS.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Stream of Consciousness with Dan Backes

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dan Backes, Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 5 Mar 2026 19:27:29 +0000

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Rod Berger — journalist, education analyst, global interviewer, and author of The Narrative Edge. Rod has spent years traveling the world, sitting across from leaders, innovators, and everyday people with extraordinary stories. But what stands out most isn’t the résumé — it’s the way he listens, the way he honors people, and the way he finds meaning in the moments most of us overlook. We talk about the craft of storytelling, the responsibility that comes with asking questions, and the path that led him from education work to interviewing global figures. Rod opens up about the lessons he’s learned from the people he’s met, the power of authentic narrative, and why he believes stories can meet the moment in ways data and policy never can.

Links: www.drrodberger.com (http://www.drrodberger.com/) IG:

/ drrodberger LinkedIn:

/ rodbergerpsyd https://open.spotify.com/show/2ZHWgVJ... https://podmatch.com/hostdetailprevie... Support the show (https://buymeacoffee.com/danbackes)

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Why Your Characters Feel Flat (and the Interview Technique That Fixes It)

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 2 Mar 2026 20:33:16 +0000

Do you really know your characters, or are you just moving them around the page?

Real character depth doesn't come from a bio sheet—it comes from treating your characters like real people and finding their breaking point.

In this episode of The Author's Mind, Shilo Creed sits down with Dr. Rod Berger to discuss how to "interview" your characters to find their hidden truths. We explore the critical technique of establishing a character's "normal" specifically to shatter it, and the mindset shift every author needs to build confidence and survive the editing process.

Inside this episode:

The Interview Method: Why you should stop writing descriptions and start asking your characters questions.
Breaking Normal: How to establish a character's reality just to break it for maximum tension.
Writer Resilience: How to develop the "thick skin" required to handle brutal feedback and keep writing.

Special Guest: Dr. Rod Berger Communication expert and author of The Narrative Edge, Rod has conducted over 4,000 interviews with global leaders and storytellers.

Connect with Rod Berger here: https://www.drrodberger.com/book

Find Shilo's books here:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFV59FRQ?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771886025&sr=1-1&ref

Looking for her other pen names? Check them out!

Elysian Hunt ~ Clean Rom Coms

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFZ4P281?binding=kindle_edition&ref

Quinn Knightly ~ Medieval action adventure

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT4YMGZL?binding=kindle_edition&qid=1771885958&sr=8-1&ref

C.R. Fulton ~ Middle-grade chapter books that are wholesome:

https://bakkenbooks.com/collections/the-campground-kids-collection

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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The Narrative Edge - Emmy-Award Winning Editor Max Partain on Creativity And Honesty

berger.rod@gmail.com (Max Partain, Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 14:32:41 +0000

Episode Summary: Welcome to The Narrative Edge! In this episode, Dr. Rod Berger sits down with Emmy Award-winning editor Max Partain for a candid conversation about storytelling, creativity, authenticity, and the evolving landscape of content creation. Max shares his journey from childhood challenges with OCD and ADHD to finding his voice as a creative professional. Together, they explore the nuances of editing, the impact of AI on storytelling, and the importance of radical candor and vulnerability in both personal and professional relationships. Whether you're a storyteller, creative, or simply curious about the art of narrative, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.

Chapters 00:00 – Introduction & Max’s Early Story 02:00 – The Power of Storytelling and Personal Narratives 04:30 – Childhood, OCD, and Finding a Voice 08:00 – Roleplaying, Video Games, and Story Structure 12:00 – Editing: From Black & White to Nuance 16:00 – The Art of Guiding an Audience 20:00 – Storytelling in the Age of Algorithms 24:00 – Authenticity vs. Brain Rot in Content Creation 28:00 – Getting in the Creative Zone 32:00 – The Superpower of Focus and Routine 36:00 – Vulnerability, Radical Candor, and Client Relationships 40:00 – AI, Editing, and the Future of Storytelling 44:00 – Teaching Storytelling to the Next Generation 48:00 – The Importance of Self-Discovery and Ongoing Growth 52:00 – Max’s Advice for Creatives & Where to Find Him 55:00 – Closing Thoughts & Resources

Connect with Max Partain

Instagram: @maxpartain
Website

Connect with Dr. Rod Berger

Book: The Narrative Edge – Available wherever books are sold
DM “Lost chapter” on social for a special bonus!

Thanks to Riggg Productions for supporting this episode.

--- If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations on storytelling and creativity!

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Diving Into The Leadership Story Lab with Esther Choy

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 18:50:54 +0000

Esther Choy is the author of the book Let The Story Do The Work and is working on a second book about story discovery. Her company, Leadership Story Lab, has worked with leaders from top-tier organizations such as Comcast, Allstate, Chicago Public Schools, United Airlines, and the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern.

"Esther Choy isn’t just smart and wise and sensible, but she also imbues her work with a spirit of kindness and positivity. The result is a book that’s rousing in both its practicality and its encouragement. You should read it immediately. "

—Stephen J. Dubner, coauthor of the Freakonomics books, and host of Freakonomics Radio

“I’ve been delivering presentations for years, but after reading this book, I felt a change in the way I built my story. The result was extremely effective. The audience was engaged and excited. I would recommend this book to anyone who delivers presentations or talks to people-- the lessons are applicable to anything!"

-Mike Maiorisi, Sr. Business Operations Associate, athenahealth

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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The Narrative Edge: Rod Berger on Storytelling, Connection, and Saying Yes

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 15:18:45 +0000

'Make Your Day Richer'

Rod Berger joins me for a rich, reflective conversation about the power of story, the art of the interview, and the emotional tango of writing his new book, The Narrative Edge. With over 4,000 interviews under his belt, Rod shares how storytelling has shaped his life, deepened his relationships, and helped him find meaning in moments both ordinary and extraordinary.

From Nickelodeon-meets-Carson vibes to train rides through Scandinavia, this episode is a masterclass in authentic connection.

Connect with the host, Richard Wilmore!

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Dr. Rod Berger’s Guide to Stories That Change Lives

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dean West) — Tue, 7 Oct 2025 14:03:00 +0000

This week on Partnerships for Profit, we welcome Dr. Rod Berger, Psy. D., a strategic storyteller, keynote speaker, and media contributor whose 4,000+ interviews have spanned figures like Magic Johnson and Sammy Hagar of Van Halen to an audience with the late Pope Francis. A TEDx speaker, Pangea International Literacy Prize winner, and host of The Narrative Edge podcast - part of the Dr. Rod Berger Channel, Rod shares insights from his upcoming Wiley book on how authentic, unpolished stories cut through the noise to connect, influence, and inspire.

His new book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores next month and is available for presale!

Connect with Rod:
🔗 LinkedIn: / rodbergerpsyd
📸 Instagram: / drrodberger
🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/drrodberger
▶️ YouTube: / @drrodberger

🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/58631921...

#leducentertainment #podcast #partnershipsforprofit #RodBerger #deanwest #storytelling

Partnerships For Profit

By Leduc Entertainment

Welcome to Partnerships for Profit, the podcast where we bring you inside the world of joint ventures, strategic partnerships and powerful collaborations. Each episode, you'll dive into conversations with top entrepreneurs, visionaries, and business leaders, unlocking the secrets to building profitable relationships that drive growth and success. Whether you're looking to expand your network, find new referral partners or scale your business, you're in the right place.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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The Impropod Podcast featuring Author Dr. Rod Berger. Musical Storytelling Meets The Moment.

berger.rod@gmail.com (Luke Tomlinson) — Mon, 6 Oct 2025 18:05:43 +0000

Dr. Rod Berger sits down with composer and producer Luke Tomlinson for a one-of-a-kind podcast interview combining the power of song with the power of story. You can learn more about Luke's work at, https://www.impropod.com/

Author and host Rod Berger has conducted over 4,000 interviews, including those with NBA great Magic Johnson and the Crown Princess of Sweden. He's documented stories on behalf of WaterAid in refugee camps across Africa.

They discuss the power of storytelling. Rod recounts an interview with Khabib Nurmagomedov, who is the longest-reigning UFC Lightweight Champion, and his longing for a simple life selling vegetables.

Rod also reflects on his emotional connection to sports, particularly his childhood heartbreak over the Detroit Pistons' loss in the 1988 NBA Finals.

Rod's book: The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling that Meets the Moment

Rod's website: https://www.drrodberger.com/book

Rod's Instagram: @drrodberger

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Abstract Essay: Breaking Down The Power of Storytelling With Author, Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 6 Oct 2025 17:56:29 +0000

Dr. Rod Berger sits down with Daniel Lucas of Abstract Essay to talk about storytelling in our lives.

The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling that Meets the Moment

Discover the potential of a compelling story―and how to craft one―with expert help from an experienced storyteller

In The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling that Meets the Moment, celebrated writer, interviewer, and speaker Dr. Rod Berger delivers an inspiring and practical discussion about the rebirth of stories in our society's collective consciousness. The author explains how great stories are woven into corporate strategy, educational curricula, social media platforms, and more, and how to tap into those stories to connect with your audiences.

You'll learn about how to tell your own story―rather than leave it to be told by someone else―validating your presence and authenticating your own unique experiences. You'll also discover a one-of-a-kind tapestry of characters, ideas, and themes that combine to highlight the singular power and potential of story.

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Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Writer Unblocked: Dr. Rod Berger on The Narrative Edge: Why Authors Must Tell Their Own Story

berger.rod@gmail.com (Nicole Op Den Bosch) — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 21:28:25 +0000

How do you tell your story in a way that truly connects? In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I sit down with Dr. Rod Berger—global interviewer, communication architect, and author of The Narrative Edge—to explore how storytelling shapes not just our books, but our identities as authors.

Rod has interviewed over 4,000 people worldwide, from Pope Francis to NBA legend Magic Johnson and F1 Champion Jenson Button. With his debut book releasing November 12, he shares why storytelling isn’t just a writing skill—it’s a tool for self-worth, connection, and building an authentic author brand.

We talk about:

Why so many authors hesitate to share their personal story
How authenticity can transform you and your brand
The vulnerability and self-worth behind writing (and publishing)
What Rod learned from interviews across the globe and how it shaped his book
Why every author should think strategically about formats—from print to audiobooks

If you’ve ever wondered whether your story really matters, this conversation will remind you: owning your narrative is your most powerful asset.

📚 Pre-order Dr. Rod Berger’s The Narrative Edge (available November 12)

🎧 Listen now and discover how to leverage storytelling in your own author journey

Resources & Links:

Learn more about Rod: drrodberger.com
Pre-order The Narrative Edge wherever books are sold

For more information about Writer Unblocked please visit writerunblockedpodcast.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Designing FIFA's Vision For The World Cup with Artist Rich Tu

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 15:26:34 +0000

I never expected a story about artificial intelligence to hit me right in the gut—but Rich Tu’s “Human Response” did just that. This episode goes beyond tech headlines, unraveling how personal grief, cultural identity, and creative exploration can mingle to spark wholly new ways of experiencing art.

We unpack the emotional backbone of Rich’s acclaimed exhibit: how, after losing his father, he used AI to remix the narrative of a life, creating a digital tapestry woven from memory, possibility, and vulnerability. Rich shares why the cold logic of machine learning sometimes exposes what’s most tender in us, and how the layering of voicemails, NASA recordings, and animated words invites viewers to reimagine their own loss and legacy.

For educators and creative leaders, Rich reveals the friction between commercial constraint and personal catharsis—and how opening up that space for risk, reflection, and realness can make all the difference. We also get an inside look at Rich’s design for FIFA World Cup 2026, and how he folded his immigrant story into one of sport’s most iconic visual moments.
Guest: Rich Tu, Partner & Executive Creative Director at Sunday Afternoon, professor at SVA, and poster artist for the 2026 FIFA World Cup NY/NJ

Can vulnerability power the future of storytelling? Tune in for a conversation that may just change how you see creativity—and yourself.
To learn more about Rich Tu and his latest work with LL Cool J, check out: www.richtu.com

To learn more about The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley) and to preorder the book that's climbing the charts, click here: www.drrodberger.com/book

1. **00:00 Journey of Vulnerability** – The host shares how writing "The Narrative Edge" became an unexpected path toward reflection and embracing vulnerability.
2. **01:25 Introducing Rich Tu** – Rich Tu, award-winning designer and creative director, is welcomed and praised for his thoughtful, relational approach to creativity.
3. **03:10 Story as the Centerpiece** – The conversation pivots to exploring storytelling and how Rich’s exhibit, "Human Response," exemplifies narrative innovation.
4. **04:05 Human Response Origins** – Rich explains that the origins of "Human Response" were rooted in both personal loss and curiosity about AI’s creative capabilities.
5. **06:20 Experimenting with AI and Grief** – Rich details how he used AI to imagine alternative versions of his late father's life, using his obituary as a storytelling foundation.
6. **08:15 Crafting the Narrative Arc** – He describes the process of distilling extensive AI conversations into a 10-minute animated experience featuring hand-animated prompts.
7. **09:45 Building an Immersive Space** – Rich walks through the creation of a physical exhibit space, complete with augmented reality, immersive video, and community collaboration.
8. **11:05 Audio as Emotional Anchor** – The emotional power of incorporating personal voicemails and ambient NASA sounds is discussed, deepening the audience’s connection.
9. **13:00 The Challenge of Vulnerability** – Rich credits his curator with encouraging real vulnerability in the exhibit, pushing beyond his commercial art comfort zone.
10. **16:05 Evolving Storytelling Through Art** – He unpacks how this deeply personal project shifted his approach to narrative, highlighting the importance of open-ended questions in art.
11. **22:20 Digital vs. Physical Realities** – Discussing the creative tension between digital creation and real-world experiences, Rich reflects on how art influences life balance.
12. **28:30 FIFA World Cup Poster Commission** – Rich shares the excitement and responsibility of being tasked with designing the official poster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
13. **34:45 Layered Visual Storytelling** – The process of infusing symbolism, cultural references, and personal history into the poster’s design is revealed.
14. **39:00 Connecting Personal and Global Narratives** – Rich explores how lessons from “Human Response” fueled his bravery and authenticity in global projects like the World Cup poster.
15. **41:45 Embracing the Role of Main Character** – He reflects on intentionally becoming the main character in his own narrative, aspiring to inspire others through bold, representative storytelling.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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The Currency of Storytelling with Dr. Rod Berger: From NBA Legends to Global Leaders

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 00:41:59 +0000

In this inspiring episode of Healed and Chilled, Coach Yana sits down with master storyteller and interviewer Dr. Rod Berger — a man who has captured the voices of NBA icons Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, world leaders, rock legends, and even royalty. With over 4,000 interviews for outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Los Angeles Magazine, Dr. Berger’s stories span continents and cultures, from refugee camps in Africa to boardrooms in the Nordics.

We dive deep into the art — and power — of authentic storytelling, exploring why it’s the ultimate currency for leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. Dr. Berger shares insights from his upcoming book, The Narrative Edge (Wiley), and reveals behind-the-scenes moments from conversations with everyone from the Pope to Sammy Hagar.

Whether you’re looking to inspire, lead, or connect, this episode will leave you seeing your own story in a whole new light.

📚 Learn more about Dr. Rod Berger and his new book: https://www.drrodberger.com/book
🌟 For all your children’s confidence coaching needs, connect with Coach Yana: https://thelaptoplifecoach.com/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Dr. Rod Berger Reveals Top 5 Life-Changing Lessons From Thousands of Expert Interviews | SC

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 15:16:52 +0000

Check out my latest interview on Simple Conversations.

Dr. Rod Berger boasts an Illustrious Portfolio of interviews, featuring notable guests such as Pope Francis, Magic Johnson, Charles Barkley, Metta World Peace, Guy Fieri, Jenson Button, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Many More. Join Dr. Rod Berger as he shares the Top 5 life-changing lessons he’s learned from conducting over 100 expert interviews with leaders, innovators, and visionaries from around the world. In this exclusive video, Dr. Berger reveals powerful insights on success, leadership, personal growth, and resilience — distilled from years of conversations with some of the most influential minds in business, education, and beyond. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or lifelong learner, these takeaways will inspire you to think bigger, work smarter, and create meaningful change in your life and career. Don’t miss the wisdom that could shape your next big breakthrough.

👉 Watch now to discover the key principles that top performers live by — and how you can apply them starting today.#LifeChangingLessons#ExpertInsights#LeadershipTips#SuccessHabits#PersonalGrowth#interview

Learn more about and preorder his new book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley) here:
www.drrodberger.com/book

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Rod Berger's Narrative Edge: Transform Boring Interviews Into Must-Watch Content Gold!

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 6 Aug 2025 20:15:23 +0000

I am not often thrown a creative curve ball, though when I am, I hope I can quote, pick it up, before it slides over the proverbial plate - I had no idea how powerful Chris and Jim are as hosts of Dealcasters Live! I hope that the energy comes through in this podcast episode. I encourage listeners to check out Dealcasters (links below) and review this episode and their show. They are absolute pros!

____________

If you're struggling to connect authentically with your audience through storytelling, this episode reveals the psychology behind content that converts.

Dr. Rod Berger has conducted over 4,000 interviews worldwide - from Pope Francis to Magic Johnson - and he's about to share the strategic storytelling secrets that separate viral content from forgettable noise. As the author of the upcoming book The Narrative Edge and a clinical psychologist turned communication architect, Rod exposes why your "perfect" content might be sabotaging your influence.

In this episode, Rod reveals his curiosity-driven interview framework that transforms ordinary conversations into must-watch content, the dangerous "side stories" destroying creator confidence, and why vulnerability - not polish - builds unbreakable audience loyalty. Whether you're launching your first podcast or scaling your livestream empire, Rod's evidence-based approach to narrative psychology will revolutionize how you show up on camera.

Plus, discover the three-step method Rod uses to help entrepreneurs own their story before someone else writes it for them, and why AI can never replace the human elements that make audiences hit "follow."

Don't fear the gear—master the story behind it.

Rod's Book - "The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling that Meets the Moment": https://geni.us/NarrativeEdge

🔗 Engage with Rod Berger

✅ Official: https://www.drrodberger.com/

✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drrodberger

✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodbergerpsyd/

✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrodberger/

✅ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drrodberger

➡️ Our amazing guests are often booked with PodMatch, a top-quality podcast matching service. For booking great podcast guests like this, we love using PodMatch: https://PodMatch.CastAhead.net

➡️ We use eCamm Live To Broadcast Our Show! : https://eCamm.CastAhead.net Record, stream, and create at professional-grade without hiring a team—the Mac-exclusive platform that puts broadcast-level production at your fingertips!

➡️ Our Website Runs On PodPage: https://Podpage.CastAhead.net While your podcast drowns in obscurity, competitors are being discovered DAILY—PodPage is the instant website solution pumping SEO juice!

➡️ We host our audio podcast on Captivate: https://Captivate.CastAhead.net Scale your podcast without switching platforms or sacrificing support—the only host with built-in AI assistance that eliminates your growth ceiling.

➡️ We’ve learned how to Stream Like A Boss with Tanya Smith: https://BOSS.Dealcasters.Live Whether you're a coach, consultant, or creator, Tanya's got that magic to turn your live-streaming skills into a powerful lead-generation engine!

All of the products discussed in this podcast can be found here: http://dealcasters.shop

All video episodes available for free at: https://dealcasters.live

👤Connect with Dealcasters:

✅ https://Podcast.Dealcasters.Live

Follow Dealcasters:

✅ https://dealcasters.live/

✅ https://www.instagram.com/dealcasters

✅ https://substack.com/@realdealcasters/

✅ https://youtube.dealcasters.live

✅ https://www.linkedin.com/company/dealcasters-live

✅ https://www.facebook.com/dealcasterslive

✅ https://www.twitter.com/dealcasterslive

DISCLAIMER: All opinions are ours. Some links are affiliate links, meaning if you buy something through a qualifying link, we might make a small commission at no additional cost to you. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Owning your story, saying yes to opportunities, & being authentic with Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 6 Aug 2025 13:08:36 +0000

Dr. Rod Berger has interviewed over 4,000 people and just wrote his first book, "The Narrative Edge", but his real expertise is in finding the human behind the talking points. In this episode, we explore what makes storytelling important, how Rod breaks through people's scripted responses to get to an authentic connection, and his philosophy that "if you're not telling your story, someone else is."

Rod shares how his "Forrest Gump-like" career of saying yes to unexpected opportunities led him from psychology to refugee work to becoming a master interviewer. We dig into the vulnerable process of writing his first book, why he refuses to ask questions you could find in a press release, and how true presence and authenticity can change everything.

Whether you're struggling to find your authentic voice or wondering how to connect more deeply with others, this episode will make you rethink how you show up in your own story.

Links for this episode:

Dr. Rod Bergers book "The Narrative Edge"
Subscribe to the newsletter:⁠ ⁠⁠imperfect.email⁠
The website:⁠ imperfect.club⁠⁠⁠
Instagram:⁠ ⁠⁠@imperfect_creatives⁠⁠⁠
TikTok:⁠ @imperfect.creatives⁠⁠
YouTube:⁠ ⁠@Imperfect_Creatives

You can learn more about Michael Carruthers and his show, Imperfect Creativew, below:

Imperfect Creatives
with Michael Carruthers

Exploring what it actually takes to build meaningful creative work in the real world, either alongside or instead of traditional careers. Conversations with people at every stage of the journey, from side project builders to full-time creators and founders, about the practical and emotional reality of choosing purpose over default paths.

____________________________________
Chapters

(00:00) The Journey of Storytelling

(05:36) Embracing Opportunities: The Power of Saying Yes

(13:43) Crafting Your Own Narrative

(22:09) The Art of Authentic Interviewing

(30:46) The Addictive Nature of Storytelling

(36:52) The Impact of Connection

(42:51) The Importance of Being Present

(46:56) The Evolution of Storytelling

(54:59) Capturing Stories with Integrity

(01:00:18) Episode Wrap-Up

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino Series

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Sun, 20 Jul 2025 03:21:22 +0000

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. In this episode, we talk with Global Media Personality, Author, and Speaker Dr. Rod Berger — a master storyteller and interviewer with over 4,000 interviews under his belt for outlets like Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Los Angeles Magazine.

Dr. Berger’s upcoming book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley, Nov 2025), dives deep into the power of meaningful narratives in today's media-driven world. He has chronicled stories from NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, rock icon Sammy Hagar, global leaders from the UN, the Pope, and the Crown Princess of Sweden, even reporting from refugee camps in Africa with WaterAid.

With over 350,000 social media followers, a TV development deal with The Jim Henson Company, and a major publishing deal with Wiley, Dr. Berger stands as a leading voice in the evolution of authentic media and public discourse.

🎙️ We discuss his fascinating career, unique interview moments, storytelling philosophy, and what it takes to create lasting impact through media. Don’t miss this powerful conversation.

📘 Preorder the book: The Narrative Edge
For More Famous Interviews:Subscribe via Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgi6GpDDDrc_PgOzaERGbLQ Subscribe via iTunes/Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/famous-interviews-with-joe-dimino/id1660256991
Subscribe via Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7j92QDS13LXgajPt80X2dh
The Home of Famous Interviews:http://famousinterviewswithjoedimino.blogspot.com/
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Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Book 101 Review: The Narrative Edge - Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 18:17:59 +0000

The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling that Meets the Moment

Discover the potential of a compelling story―and how to craft one―with expert help from an experienced storyteller

In The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling that Meets the Moment celebrated writer, interviewer, and speaker Dr. Rod Berger delivers an inspiring and practical discussion about the rebirth of stories in our society's collective consciousness. The author explains how great stories are woven into corporate strategy, educational curricula, social media platforms, and more, and how to tap into those stories to connect with your audiences.

Want to be a guest on Book 101 Review? Send Daniel Lucas a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17372807971394464fea5bae3

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Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When Storytelling with AI Goes Silent: What Machines Still Can’t Hear

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 14:40:35 +0000

It was a pleasure to be on Julia's podcast about storytelling in the age of AI. Check out her show description below and subscribe to her show!

AI can’t feel. And that’s exactly why your story matters.
What do you get when a media strategist and and lifelong storyteller with a doctorate in clinical psychology meets an AI consultant?

A very real conversation about the limits of AI — and the power of human narrative.
🎙️ I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Rod Berger PsyD, whose upcoming book The Narrative Edge dives deep into the stories we live, tell, and often forget to own.

We talked about:
• Why AI will never write the real origin story of your brand
• How storytelling influences leadership, team dynamics, and innovation
• Why founders should stop hiding behind features—and start leading with meaning
• What happens when your narrative gets lost in templated content and prompt loops
And yes - we laughed, we went deep, and Rod dropped insights I’ll be thinking about for a long time.

Thank you, Rod, for this ace interview and for reminding us why authentic storytelling still cuts through all the noise.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Become an author by being yourself: publishing your first book with Dr. Rod Berger - Change The Narrative Podcast with Michael Hernandez

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Sun, 15 Jun 2025 12:34:28 +0000

Book Authoring Webinar mentioned in this episode: https://forms.gle/H4AaqdQkbgwWCdDR6

WATCH this episode on YouTube

In this episode, Michael speaks with Dr. Rod Berger, an expert in storytelling and author of 'The Narrative Edge.' They discuss the importance of authentic storytelling, the writing process, and the challenges faced by first-time authors. Dr. Berger shares insights on finding inspiration, managing time for writing, and overcoming writer's block, emphasizing that everyone has a unique story to tell. In this conversation, Dr. Rod Berger discusses the importance of authenticity in writing, the challenges of the writing process, and his experiences with publishing. He emphasizes the need for writers to find their unique voice and stay true to themselves, as well as the significance of storytelling in connecting with audiences. Dr. Berger shares insights on navigating the publishing world, the role of editors, and the importance of understanding one's own story and its impact. He concludes with advice for aspiring authors on being authentic and the value of storytelling in all aspects of life.

TOPICS

Everybody has a story.
The essence of storytelling is universal.
Writing can be a challenge, but it's rewarding.
Finding time to write requires flexibility.
Inspiration can come from everyday life.
You can write chapters independently.
Give yourself permission to explore ideas.
Writer's block is often about lack of inspiration.
Life experiences can fuel creativity.
Each person's writing journey is unique. Writer's block often stems from not being authentic.
Finding your voice is crucial for effective writing.
Public speaking experiences can shape writing style.
Authenticity leads to better audience reception.
The writing process can be daunting but rewarding.
Initial feedback from editors can boost confidence.
Daily routines can help manage the writing process.
Understanding the publishing landscape is essential.
Storytelling is a powerful tool in all areas of life.
Not everyone needs to write a book, but everyone has a story.

BOOKS:

The Narrative Edge - Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley)

I'd like to thank Michael for a wonderful interview and for his passion for writing and educating youth in a powerfully engaging manner. Here is a bit more about his show and how you can continue to learn from his work.

Change the Narrative

By Michael Hernandez

Travel with award-winning educator, author, and international speaker, Michael Hernandez, as he interviews innovation leaders and searches for answers about how to innovate in work, life, and culture.

Find out more about Producer and Host, Michael Hernandez on Linked In: bit.ly/MichaelHernandezLinkedIn and on Instagram: @Changing.The.Narrative

Get more inspiring ideas every month--sign up for our free email newsletter: bit.ly/ChngNarSignup

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Narrative Edge with Dr. Rod Berger - The Principal Liner Notes Podcast

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Sun, 15 Jun 2025 00:30:27 +0000

For those who follow my work, I will be sharing podcast shows that feature interviews with me about my new book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets the Moment (Wiley).

I highly recommend people check out Sean's wonderfully original and raw podcast, The Principal Liner Notes Podcast. You can also connect with Sean on LinkedIn.

Here are the original show notes from my episode with Sean:
In this inspiring episode, I’m joined by the dynamic Dr. Rod Berger—a storyteller, connector, and relentless advocate for the human side of education. Known for his ability to amplify voices that matter in education, business, and mental health, Dr. Berger brings an eclectic perspective shaped by his background in psychology, leadership, and media.

We riff on the power of authentic storytelling, the intersection of education and innovation, and the importance of humanizing school leadership. From his work with Forbes and publications across the globe to his unwavering belief in the power of relationships, Dr. Berger shares personal reflections and professional wisdom that will resonate with every educator and leader.

We also explore Rod's upcoming book with Wiley, The Narrative Edge. Now available for pre-order on Amazon.

Tune in as we explore why vulnerability is a strength, how to lead with empathy in a noisy world, and what it really means to "find your note" in the symphony of leadership.

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Rod Berger: drrodberger.com

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Famed Movie Producer Peter Samuelson On Finding His Happy Through Authorship

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 9 Jun 2025 14:57:23 +0000

You probably know Peter Samuelson from these films: Revenge of the Nerds, Tom & Viv, The Return of the Pink Panther, and any of his 25 major films. However, did you know that he also founded five charities and genuinely cares about our at-risk youth, the homeless, and others in need? Here are his charities: Starlight Children’s Foundation, Starbright World (w/Steven Spielberg), FirstStar, Everyone Deserves A Roof, ASPIRE, and now he has just written Finding Happy: A User's Guide to Your Life with Lessons From Mine (Regalo Press - June 2025).

Finding Happy is filled with Peter's gripping adventures and misadventures that demonstrate just how possible the seemingly impossible often is, from daredevil filmmaking in Africa and Asia to making daunting rules work for you, to earning a full college scholarship after being completely unable to answer the entrance exam essay question…to climbing down a hundred-foot pipe shaft at 3 a.m. to rescue a kitten, with no plan for how to climb back up.

Here's a case study of someone who benefited from Samuelson’s attention: “Alex” is an alumnus of the First Star Academy at UCLA, bravely pursuing a university degree after COVID and being awarded a place to do so. He finally achieved a placement with an excellent foster family, and their family home was then burned to a cinder in the Palisades Fire earlier this year. First Star was able to rally around Alex and ensured he had the money and encouragement to continue his Studies and replace everything but the clothes on his back (and a new trumpet, his passion).

Finding Happy is about how to best seize the day, identifying which risks are brave and which foolish, navigating roadblocks and solutions, learning from leaders, and discovering your secret sauce. Samuelson explains how to find your compass and persuade others to help you. He shows how to live your passion, make a living, take off your mask, build your best place in the universe, and find your own unique and personal Happy

Perfect for young adults starting their adult journey, as well as those well into theirs who have not yet sighted land, Finding Happy: offers true, lived wisdom that will inspire readers to find their own unique and personal Happy.

More about Peter and his work can be found here: https://www.samuelson.la/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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"Why Matters: Exploring Holistic Health and Personal Wellness with Dr. Sameer Patel"

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 17:51:36 +0000

Join Dr. Rod Berger as he sits down with Dr. Sameer Patel, a leading expert in holistic wellness and dental health, for an enlightening conversation about transforming our approach to personal health. From his unique journey through professional sports to dentistry and wellness leadership, Dr. Patel shares profound insights on proactive healthcare, the importance of understanding our bodies, and creating meaningful connections with our health practitioners.

Discover how small, intentional lifestyle choices can compound into significant long-term wellness, and learn about the power of active listening, personalized nutrition, and the critical role of parenting in establishing healthy life patterns. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to take control of their health journey and understand the interconnected nature of wellness. Dr. Patel is a brand ambassador and board member of NØØT!

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

NØØT Founder Dia Schwarz: The Mindful & The Bold - The Next Frontier in Health & Wellness

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 9 Apr 2025 16:15:39 +0000

Imagine a conversation where personal well-being meets environmental responsibility – that’s exactly what you can expect in the latest episode of HeadRoom, "NØØT Founder Dia Schwarz: The Mindful & The Bold - The Next Frontier in Health & Wellness" with our insightful host, Dr. Rod Berger, and special guest Dia Schwarz.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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"Revolutionizing Healthcare: Dr. Matthias Bernow's Journey to Unlock the Transformative Power of Stem Cells" with Dr. Mattias Bernow of Cellcolabs

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 19:56:25 +0000

Dr. Matthias Bernow is not just a seasoned medical professional and CEO of Cellcolabs; he's also a visionary at the intersection of healthcare innovation and practical application. With roots deeply embedded in Stockholm and balancing roles as a businessman and a caring father, Dr. Bernow's mission is more than transactional: crafting a future where advanced medical treatments are accessible and impactful worldwide.

In our discussion, Dr. Bernow illuminates the current landscape of stem cell research, describing it as a pivotal moment, much like a thrilling midpoint in a great saga—full of potential yet uncertain outcomes. He parallels historical medical breakthroughs like antibiotics, suggesting that stem cells might similarly transform our approach to chronic diseases and aging. According to Dr. Bernow, stem cells offer three key benefits: anti-inflammatory properties, regenerative capabilities, and the ability to modulate the immune system. These attributes could revolutionize treatments for many conditions, from arthritis to diabetes, and perhaps fundamentally alter how we manage aging and chronic diseases.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Ryan Detert: The Mozart of Influence

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 08:12:00 +0000

Dr. Rod Berger dives into the world of influence to capture the story of an entrepreneur who is now a part of the influencer marketing legacy. The world has changed, giving creators and influencers a path to control their brands and those they support. Ryan Detert, in short, can be credited with a sector-shaking move primed to have longstanding implications. Publicis Group acquired Influential, the world’s top influencer marketing company, for a groundbreaking $500 million in an industry-altering move. After a challenging year for startups, this landmark deal signals a resurgence of investor confidence in the creator economy.

Back in 2013, CEO Ryan Detert laid the foundation for Influential, recognizing the need to bring order to the chaotic world of influencer marketing. His vision has led the company to become a nine-figure influencer marketplace, powered by OpenAI's Social Intelligence™ technology, Radius. This innovative approach has enabled the company to partner with major platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter, empowering a vast network of over 3 million influencers to connect with top-tier brands such as McDonald’s, NBA, NFL, and Pepsi.

Ryan will most likely go down as one of the seminal authors of the creator economy, which is estimated to be a $250 billion industry. Dive into his story and learn how notoriety has changed his life.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Oslo Innovation Week: Going Vertical with Researcher Turned Entrepreneur Trygve Mongstad

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 9 Oct 2024 21:04:55 +0000

Check out the latest episode of HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger on location in Oslo, Norway, for Oslo Innovation Week, presented by the Oslo Business Region. This episode dives into the world of innovation, solar technology, and entrepreneurism from Norway's national soccer stadium. Trygve Mongstad, founder and CEO of Over Easy Solar, shares his unlikely path to heading up the Solar Startup of the Year by SolarPower Europe.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Oslo Innovation Week: AI Authoring Next for Völur and NeedEnergy at StartUp Lab

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 8 Oct 2024 21:10:14 +0000

Join Dr. Rod Berger in Oslo for a special episode featuring two incredible innovators and leaders: Anna von Zeppelin Turvoll, CEO of Völur, and Leroy T. Nyangani, cofounder of NeedEnergy. Berger traveled to Norway in search of stories embedded in the sustainability movement. What better place than Oslo Innovation Week, presented by Oslo Business Region? During a jam-packed innovation week, a central event occurred at the wonderfully inspiring StartUp Lab for the Climate Tech Summit 2030.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Jonas Helmikstøl: The Easee Charging Story From The Inside Out

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 2 Oct 2024 23:17:02 +0000

Jonas Helmikstøl: The Easee Charging Story From The Inside Out looks at the now infamous story of one entrepreneur once recognized as the face of a company and nation. Norway's Jonas Helmikstøl is ready to share his personal journey and the moments that defined this once-billionaire from a celebrated savant to a corporate playboy vilified in the press.

This special episode was recorded in Oslo, Norway, as part of Oslo Innovation Week, presented by the Oslo Business Region.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Gianna Driver of Lattice: Generational Talent Meets Corporate Expectations

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 2 Oct 2024 20:01:25 +0000

Gianna Driver, Chief People Officer at Lattice, met with Dr. Rod Berger during CultureCon 2024 in Madison, Wisconsin, to discuss the challenges and opportunities CPOs face in structuring companies of all shapes and sizes.

For more information on Gianna's work and CultureCon, check out Berger's article here!

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Jasmine Bellamy: The Revenue of Love in Corporate America

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 2 Oct 2024 20:00:53 +0000

Jasmine Bellamy brings her courageous conversations and legacy as Sports Illustrated 100 Influential Black Women in Sports to the talent discussion, leaning into her executive post at Reebok and the reason behind her own launch. Love is the language spoken authentically by Bellamy, and courage is the game to be played through all levels of an organization. This cultural powerhouse sat down with Dr. Rod Berger at CultureCon 2024 in Madison, Wisconsin, to discuss her path to love and acceptance of her own talents.

Check out Berger's wrap-up article about Bellamy's impact on him during an action-packed week in Madison!

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Henrik von Scheel: The Godfather Of The 4th Industrial Revolution On Life, Love, And Solitude

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 18:46:43 +0000

Dr. Rod Berger takes a deep dive into the 4th Industrial Revolution with the noted futurist who coined the term over a decade ago, Professor Henrik von Scheel. Berger and von Scheel were included in the recently published book out of Dubai, "Voices of the Future." Henrik is best known as the originator (Godfather) of the 4th Industrial Revolution and Digital themes of today. Henrik is a strategist, futurist, and speaker who has evolved the mainstream business thinking and practices today.

His work transcends borders, impacting more than 24 national economies, influencing GDP growth, triggering global themes, and shaping the performance of the fastest-growing companies, i.e., 23% of the Fortune 500. Henrik is a Professor at Arthur Lok Jack Global School of Business.

"The most influential management
thinker of our times.”

-H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai

In 2009, Prof Henrik von Scheel and Prof August Wilhelm Scheer, in collaboration with the Advisory Council of the Federal Minister of Economy & Technology, played a significant role in defining Germany’s future digital strategy.

The “Digital Agenda” was adopted by the European Commission in 2010 as the Europe Digital Agenda 2020 and evolved into the European Digital Revolution. It is one of Europe’s seven flagships—responsible for 5% of GDP, with a market value of €660 billion annually. The “Digital Agenda” evolved into the global digital theme of today.

In 2011, Prof von Scheel foresaw the future and coined the term the 4th Industrial Revolution, becoming one of the masterminds and driving forces behind its inception.

As members of the Advisory Group for the Federal Ministry of Education & Research, Prof. Henrik von Scheel, Prof August Wilhelm Scheer, and Prof Henning Kagermann were tasked to define the high-tech strategy for Germany.

The final “Industry 4.0” was announced in April 2013 as an interministerial innovation policy initiative. Prof von Scheel announced that Industry 4.0 will emerge in eight evolutionary stages, propelled by 77 megatrends.

To learn more about Professor Henrik von Scheel and his work including several books and publications, visit: https://von-scheel.com/publications/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Spatial Computing and Augmented Reality: Enhancing Human Capacity with Nils Pihl

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 19:41:42 +0000

In this episode, Dr. Rod Berger spends time with Nils Pihl, CEO of Auki Labs, who shares his challenges of navigating a constant flow of information and good ideas from a sea of possibilities. He also shares his unique perspective on imagination as a sense organ and consciousness as the movement of information, inspired by Richard Dawkins' concept of memes. He envisions humanity collectively forming a global brain through real-time information sharing.

We also explore the burgeoning fields of spatial computing, AI, and hybrid robotics. Nils provides insights into how these technologies revolutionize resource allocation, traffic management, and retail productivity. He paints a fascinating picture of a decentralized tech future and the ethical considerations involved in surveillance and privacy.

From the evolutionary impact of communication technologies to the entrepreneurial spirit driving innovation in Silicon Valley and beyond, this episode is packed with thought-provoking ideas.

Timestamps

00:00 Early internet experience, weird yet intriguing.

06:52 Early tech interest affected social experiences later.

11:42 Cell phones revolutionized social interaction and safety.

19:18 The Younger generation prefers the digital world over the physical.

23:17 Language drives human connection and tech advancement.

28:28 Language describes location relative to something else.

36:26 How do you handle an overflow of ideas?

43:09 Reevaluating American individualism and personal value in teams.

47:59 Civilization focuses on resource allocation, including AI.

53:56 Perspective shifts change our view of the world.

57:49 Urban living promotes sustainability and environmental stewardship.

01:03:06 Urging individual ownership and access to technology.

01:07:14 Capitalism has downsides, including privacy concerns.

01:12:11 Privacy concerns about grocery store surveillance technology.

01:16:52 Connected car networks improve safety and privacy.

Connect with Nils Pihl

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nilspihl/?originalSubdomain=hk

Website: https://www.aukilabs.com/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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CultureCon 2024 Is Here! Co-Founders Zach Blumenfeld and Nick Lombardino On The Power of Engagement

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Sun, 25 Aug 2024 17:40:21 +0000

In this episode, Dr. Rod Berger takes a deep dive into the world of work and engaged, culturally rich ecosystems with two esteemed guests, Zach Blumenfeld and Nick Lombardino, Co-founders of CultureCon. You'll hear how Zach and Nick met and turned small gatherings into an annual conference that empowers business leaders to share knowledge and foster meaningful workplace culture.

Our conversation explores the balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivators, the evolving dynamics of workplace culture, and how startups influence larger organizations. Zach and Nick share insights on accountability, truth-seeking, and the role of storytelling in fostering empathy in our data-driven world.

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that promises to inspire and offer tangible takeaways for personal and professional growth as we kick off CultureCon Week!

Timestamps

00:00 Exploring the word "why" and its impact.

04:55 CEOs passionately discuss workplace culture, sparking human connection.

08:31 Seeking new direction and professional development.

09:35 Diverse audience pool, meaningful work for all.

15:19 Interest in economic factors impacting workplace culture.

18:01 Small companies are sourcing unique benefit packages creatively.

22:17 Questioning the magic ingredient for corporate success.

25:51 Improving EQ adds value to teams and organizations.

29:45 Is retention different for young professionals today?

30:50 Businesses accept short-term workforce for experience and productivity.

36:10 Storytelling is essential for empathy and connection.

37:52 Exploring the impact of entrepreneurship on personal growth.

Connect with Zach Blumenfeld

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharyblumenfeld

Website: https://www.cultureconusa.org/

Connect with Nick Lombardino

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nlombardino

Website: https://www.cultureconusa.org/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Keurig's Bob Stiller: From Family Business to Fair Trade Coffee Pioneer

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 17:02:06 +0000

In this episode, Dr. Rod Berger spends time with Forbes's very first 'Entrepreneur of the Year' (2001), Bob Stiller. Bob shares his journey of building a multibillion-dollar company, emphasizing the importance of intuition, continuous improvement, and social responsibility. We'll explore how Bob's upbringing and his father's high ethical standards shaped his business philosophy and how he used techniques like the Silva method to hone his instincts.

Bob delves into the Green Mountain story, highlighting its commitment to environmental and social causes and the powerful concept of co-creation within teams. We also discuss the stressful yet pivotal moments, such as the acquisition of Keurig, and the challenges of succession planning.

We'll hear about Bob's reflections on personal awareness, motivation, and the role of inspiring stories in business. Plus, we'll touch on his new book, "Better and Better: Creating a Culture of Purpose, Excellence, and Transformative Human Engagement," which captures the essence of his philosophy and the lessons he's learned.

Join us as Bob Stiller takes us through his experiences, filled with wisdom on entrepreneurship, corporate social responsibility, and the human elements that drive success.

Timestamps

00:00 Green Mountain: world's largest fair trade coffee supplier

04:36 Enthusiastic praise for the story and father's influence.

09:42 Trusting intuition, researching, and collaborating in decision-making.

10:49 Exploring entrepreneurship and self-worth and confidence.

17:04 Reflective inquiry on board engagement and participation.

20:01 Social responsibility in supply chain, volunteerism, donation.

22:01 Affirmations can initiate positive change and focus.

25:34 Employees formed an environmental committee, aided by the local community.

30:37 Pressure and growth impact on personal life.

32:25 Navigating uncertainty with a relaxed approach.

36:24 Hasty transition led to the company's direction change.

39:35 Book's timing could help in transition.

Connect with Bob Stiller

Website: https://www.keurig.com/

Stiller Family Foundation: http://www.stillerfamilyfoundation.org/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Famed Michigan State Basketball Alum Sam Vincent: Living A Life On And Off The Court With Character

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 14:48:25 +0000

In this episode, Dr. Rod Berger spends time with Michigan State University basketball legend and upcoming Homecoming Grand Marshal Sam Vincent. Sam recalls an unforgettable moment on the court when an encouraging thump on the chest from Charles Oakley sparked an outstanding performance against Isiah Thomas. Reflecting on his journey, Sam shares the challenges and triumphs of coaching overlooked student-athletes at Beacon, emphasizing the unique approach needed to support those with learning differences.

We'll explore Sam's international coaching experiences, the cultural lessons learned in places like Bahrain, and how sports can transcend racial and cultural barriers. Tune in to hear about his enduring connections in the basketball community, the impact of his Michigan State University family, and the joys of helping underdogs build confidence through sports.

This heartfelt conversation highlights the values of adaptability and resilience and the profound impact of mentorship—both on and off the court. Whether you're a basketball enthusiast or someone passionate about education and personal development, this episode is sure to inspire you.

Timestamps

00:00 Former NBA player Sam Vincent's inspiring journey.

06:11 International coaching experience taught adjusting coaching style.

09:47 Love for the game drives teaching benefits.

13:54 Emotional game victory strengthens personal growth.

15:47 Reflection on travel, cultural impact, and experiences.

20:33 Building mental resilience in unfamiliar, diverse settings.

23:18 Importance of early diagnosis for learning differences.

26:33 Ex-NBA player finds joy in supporting underdogs.

29:17 20 years coaching internationally, staying connected to game.

33:23 You've made an impact in multiple places.

34:46 Influenced by great models, played with NBA legends.

39:00 Oakley inspires Jordan in pre-game pep talk.

42:24 A fantastic ambassador for Michigan State University.

Connect with Sam Vincent:

Website: https://www.beaconcollege.edu/faculty/sam-vincent/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Worth Fighting For: A Conversation with Author John Pavlovitz

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 1 Aug 2024 07:47:00 +0000

In this episode, John shares his personal experiences and perspectives, advocating for humanity and emphasizing the importance of empathy, curiosity, and inclusivity. As a lifelong lover of comic books, music, and art, Pavlovitz discusses how these interests have shaped his storytelling and commitment to preserving the good in the world.

Listen as we uncover the balance of providing guidance without alienating audiences, the need for sustained, substantive conversations, and the role of humility and curiosity in fostering deeper understanding. John Pavlovitz also highlights the importance of balancing activism with self-care, the responsibility of public contributors, and his ongoing fight for inclusivity and against privilege and tribalism.

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges us to embrace our humanity and engage with the world more meaningfully.

Timestamps

00:00 John: writer, pastor, activist, and storyteller from NC.

03:47 A Sheltered upbringing led to an expanded worldview.

08:13 Exploring church, following, authenticity, questioning life's patterns.

11:38 Embrace curiosity, avoid tribalism, and value human connection.

14:32 Americans fight for idealized America, equality, and empathy.

18:44 Suburbia offers false insulation; which leads to intellectual laziness.

21:36 Questioning norms with humility is important.

25:15 Do we have skills and infrastructure?

28:28 Processing information, building empathy, and identity crisis.

31:22 Politician's platform reveals societal shifts in behavior.

33:25 Navigating responsibility and influence in a public platform.

39:10 Fantastic childhood, prompts from faith, deeper thinker.

41:15 Growing passion, compassionate engagement, and self-care.

Connect with John Pavlovitz

Website: https://johnpavlovitz.com/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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How The Cool Down Engages Millions: Dave Finocchio’s Vision for Climate Advocacy

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 19:24:45 +0000

In today's episode, Dr. Rod Berger sits down with Dave Finocchio, the visionary co-founder of Bleacher Report and the current CEO of The Cool Down. Together, they delve into pressing environmental concerns like wildfires and plastic pollution and the critical need for clear, relatable communication on these issues.

Dave shares his journey from revolutionizing sports media to spearheading climate sustainability efforts, emphasizing the importance of engaging content that sparks real change. We'll explore The Cool Down's success in reaching 30 million each month and empowering communities with energy-efficient solutions.

Join us as we uncover how Dave's innovative approach makes sustainability accessible and inspirational for all generations.

If you have a story to tell, connect with Rod!

Timestamps

00:00 Podcast guest discusses Bleacher Report's impact.

04:59 Passionate about sustainability and finding purpose.

09:36 Success depends on audience acceptance and sustainability.

10:38 Promoting change, reaching 30 million users.

14:36 Climate change fear-based communication strategies are ineffective.

18:43 Deliver information like a trusted cool neighbor.

23:51 Plastics in bodies benefit from burning fossil fuels.

27:23 Focused on solutions for a cleaner, better society.

30:01 Generational gaps, big changes, and future generations.

34:22 Inspiring hope, dreams, and making a difference.

39:16 Individual climate sustainability journeys vary, but assistance is available.

40:18 Community-level energy efficiency guide with user-generated content.

43:33 Discussion on Dave's impactful role as a model.

Connect with Dave Finocchio

Website: https://www.thecooldown.com/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Oceanic Activist & Artist Joshua Sam Miller

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Fri, 7 Jun 2024 15:43:30 +0000

Happy World Oceans Day, 2024! A special episode of HeadRoom features the incomparable talents of cinematographer, musician, composer, and eco-preneur Joshua Sam Miller. A noted sound and visual activist, Miller has combined his wealth of experience and talent to represent the power of the oceans and marine life, which is desperate for us to understand their delicate environment better.

In 2020, the project was accepted as part of the International Year of Sound featured by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association in Santa Cruz, CA, and debuted at Burning Man 2019. In 2021, he presented his work at the United Nations Climate Conference COP 26. He was featured on PBS Television, Agape Zoe Festival, World Oceans Day, and as an artist in residence at MONOM Sound Berlin. In 2022, Embodied Sounds shared the premiere of Sounds of the Ocean at WisdomeLA and was welcomed as an official accredited organization at the United Nations Ocean Conference, where Joshua led an immersive event at the Lisbon Planetarium to inspire local people and global stakeholders to connect with life underwater in support of SDG 14. He later was invited to perform at the Ocean X Climate Summit at COP27 in Egypt as the opening performance.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Building Bridges in Leadership: Greg Zlevor's Approach to Sustainable Connections

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 4 Jun 2024 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we'll delve into leadership beyond the conventional, exploring Greg's pioneering leadership program that aims to break down silos and foster connections within upper-level management. We’ll hear about a participant who felt a deep sense of loss upon leaving the program proof of the powerful bonds it creates and learn about the transformative Hope Makers Collective, an inspiring initiative Greg helped to form, dedicated to training thousands to bring hope and positivity to the world.

Together, Greg and I will discuss the modern workplace's evolving landscape, the younger generation's shifting priorities, and the increasing importance of value alignment over pay. We'll touch on the challenges of remote and hybrid work environments and the rising mental health issues exacerbated by social media and technology. Greg also shares practical advice on fostering inclusive perspectives and making difficult, impactful choices in leadership, offering insights into the importance of human connections and personal interactions in today’s fast-paced world.

Join us as we unpack these vital topics and more with Greg Zlevor on this thought-provoking episode of HeadRoom.

Timestamps

00:00 Greg has diverse professional experience and passion.

05:11 Reflecting on authenticity and embracing life's messiness.

06:49 Learning to be kind, transparent, and assertive.

11:45 Language shaping trust, Midwest sensibility, connecting power.

15:32 Constructive dialogue key to building trust and progress.

19:31 New generation brings reversed power dynamics, isolation.

23:51 Radiologists connect better with photos, important in leadership.

27:13 Connecting people at work fosters organizational impact.

29:18 Phase 2 and 3 plan to bring hope.

Connect with Greg Zlevor

Website: https://www.hopemakerscollective.com/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kendra Davenport: Pioneering Change for Disability Advocacy at Easterseals

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Sun, 12 May 2024 17:44:45 +0000

Welcome to another enlightening episode of HeadRoom. Today, we're diving deep into a conversation with Kendra Davenport, the President and CEO of Easterseals. This pivotal organization champions equity, inclusion, and access for people with disabilities, veterans, and older adults.

Dr. Rod Berger, your host, sets the stage for a discussion that spans the incredible impact of Easterseals, Kendra's journey through the nonprofit sector, and the broader implications of advocacy and leadership in nurturing an environment of support and engagement. Kendra shares personal stories and insights from her extensive experience, reflecting on the evolution of nonprofit work and the dynamic nature of service and leadership.

Get ready to explore the fabric of dedication and the color of passion in today’s episode, where we delve into what it means to lead with purpose and influence meaningful change across communities.

Timestamps

00:00 Easterseals CEO Kendra Davenport advocates for equity.

06:02 Fundraiser for noble causes, focusing on impact.

08:49 Advocacy requires balancing passion and responsibility.

10:47 Challenges of running a successful nonprofit organization.

15:47 US cities lack accessibility; change needed. Awareness is crucial.

19:01 Serving a purpose benefits people, health, and communities.

23:49 Dedicated to Easterseals mission, changing industries for accessibility.

24:56 Best stories are accessible, you are vital.

Connect with Kendra Davenport

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendradavenport

Website: https://www.easterseals.com/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Exploring the Personal Journey in Entrepreneurship with Rusty Gunther

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 7 May 2024 14:12:40 +0000

Welcome to another enlightening episode of HeadRoom, where we dive deep into personal growth and authentic success in today's rapidly changing professional landscape. I'm your host, Dr. Rod Berger, and today I'm joined by the insightful Rusty Gunther. Rusty, a passionate advocate for aligning life's work with personal values, shares his unique perspective on entrepreneurship, the significance of personal identity over professional roles, and the power of community support in achieving greatness.

Together, we'll explore the essential role of mentorship, the transformative power of self-audit, and how understanding our "why" can profoundly impact our paths. Rusty will also reveal his journey through emotional intelligence, counterculture influences, and his hands-on approach to leadership.

So, tune in as we unpack these themes and offer guidance on navigating the complexities of personal and professional evolution here on HeadRoom, brought to you by Brainlight and Old Soul.

Timestamps

00:00 Interviewing diverse individuals from various fields.

06:15 Appreciation for parenting and evolving voice perceptions.

07:44 Wife is a successful executive coach with a psychology background.

12:57 Pressure to succeed in a branded world.

16:34 Individual ownership versus the need for community.

19:47 Young people are frustrated by naturally successful professionals.

23:52 Get hands-on to lead effectively, and avoid detachment.

26:09 Navigating life's different perspectives and stages.

Connect with Rusty Gunther

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rustygunther/

Website: https://towerinsur.com/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Pilot's Perspective: Astronaut John Shoffner on Time, Responsibility, and Space Travel

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 15:00:34 +0000

Welcome to another episode of HeadRoom. This is your host, Dr. Rod Berger, and today, we have a truly out-of-this-world guest on the show. Buckle up as we join Astronaut John Shoffner on a voyage that transcends the atmosphere and delves into the emotional odyssey of realizing a lifelong dream.

From the moment of liftoff to the realization that being an astronaut comes with the weighty responsibility of representing humanity, John will share his transformative journey to the International Space Station. A path paved not just for personal fulfillment but to inspire and educate others, especially the younger generation, on the wonders of space.

We'll navigate the shifts in John's perspective that led to the birth of the Perseid Foundation, his poignant reflections on the sense of time and the regret of not absorbing every second in space, and the bittersweet longing to return amidst the exhilaration of new private spaceflight opportunities.

Plus, we'll explore the profound impact that private individuals can have on space research and humanitarian efforts. John's commitment to STEM and the power of art to convey the grandeur of the cosmos is sure to kindle a fire of curiosity and passion in all of us.

Join us as we delve into the heart of a man changed by space, driven by a desire to lift others up to the stars. This is HeadRoom, where the sky is not the limit but just the beginning.

Timestamps

00:00 John Shoffner: astronaut, advocate, and space enthusiast

07:00 20 years together, then a decision for space.

09:23 Rare, privileged experiences provoke existential reflection.

13:20 Utilizing orbit experiences for meaningful and educational interactions.

17:14 Discuss the impact of internal voice in space.

18:48 Cherishing brief moments and experiences in space.

22:53 Private astronaut program adds value through research.

25:19 Children's fascination with space and self-expression.

31:13 Interview with astronaut sparks desire for space.

32:23 Reflection on unity and impact of space travel.

Connect with Astronaut John Shoffner

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnpshoffner/

Website: https://www.axiomspace.com/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Sarah Nagy on AI's Impact: Rethinking Careers and Learning in a Tech-Driven World

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 07:31:00 +0000

Welcome to the episode of HeadRoom. Today, we're diving deep into the transformative world of artificial intelligence with a trailblazing guest, Sarah Nagy, Co-Founder and CEO of SEEK AI. With an impressive background in finance and startups, Sarah has consistently stayed ahead of the curve, anticipating the seismic shifts in technology that would reshape our professional and personal landscapes long before generative AI became a buzzword.

In our conversation, Sarah shares her journey to founding SEEK AI, her eye-opening encounter with large language models like GPT-3, and her vision for how generative AI can unlock the potential of structured datasets. We'll challenge the notion that AI is a mere fad and explore its profound and permanent impact on human life and work, digging into the intricate dynamics between AI and the evolution of various industries.

So plug in, as we unravel how generative AI is not just rewriting code but also rewriting career paths, entrepreneurship, and the very fabric of society, right here on HeadRoom, where the future is an open conversation.

Stay tuned, this is a discussion you surely don't want to miss.

Timestamps

00:00 SEEK was founded before ChatGPT focused on AI.

05:41 Disliked writing SQL until I found GPT-3.

10:00 Surprising intellect, courage, and challenges for women.

12:36 Encourage making STEM cool for women, and inclusivity.

15:53 Addressing the impact of AI on professions.

19:41 AI impact on job market and education.

23:27 Learning code is crucial for future communication.

27:54 Tech innovation needs to embrace storytelling narrative.

30:51 Childhood passion for art transformed into ambition.

35:05 Prepare for changing careers due to AI.

Connect with Sarah Nagy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-nagy/

Website: https://www.seek.ai/mission

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Jennifer Dulski

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 07:38:00 +0000

Jennifer Dulski has a wide range of executive experience, including leadership roles at Facebook, Google, and Yahoo! and founder, CEO, and president roles at early-stage and scaling startups. She is currently CEO and founder of Rising Team, a company that provides tools, data, and community to turn managers into amazing coaches who build happier and more successful teams.

Prior to her current venture, Jennifer Dulski made a significant impact at Facebook. She led Facebook Groups, a platform used by over 1.5 billion people monthly to create and engage in meaningful communities. Her team was instrumental in envisioning, building, and growing the Groups product. She also spearheaded the 2019 redesign of Facebook, “FB5,” which placed communities at the heart of the app.

Before Facebook, Dulski was president and COO of Change.org, a social enterprise company that empowers people to create campaigns for change. Under her leadership, Change.org grew 10x, from 18 million users to 180 million, developed a profitable business model, rebuilt its tech stack, and supported thousands of successful campaigns globally.

Jennifer Dulski's entrepreneurial journey began at Yahoo!, where she held various roles over nine years. Her tenure culminated in her leadership of one of six business units as group vice president and general manager of Local and Marketplaces. She then ventured out to co-found The Dealmap, a location-based deals app that was acquired by Google in 2011, making her the first woman entrepreneur to sell a company to Google. She later served as a product leader at Google before joining Change.org.

She has deep board experience in public and private companies and nonprofit boards and currently serves on the boards of WW, formerly Weight Watchers (NASDAQ: WW), the Change.org Foundation, and the Arctic Ice Project. Her previous board experience includes roles on two other public company boards, Move, Inc. (NASDAQ: MOVE) until its acquisition by NewsCorp and TEGNA (NYSE: TGNA).

Dulski writes about leadership for LinkedIn Influencers, Fortune, Forbes, and Huffington Post. Her first book, Purposeful, about how each of us can be movement starters, was published by Penguin Portfolio in 2018 and is a Wall Street Journal Bestseller.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Unveiling the Politzer Saga with Linda Ambrus Broenniman on HeadRoom

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 9 Apr 2024 12:16:00 +0000

Welcome back to HeadRoom, a sanctuary for the curious mind and a canvas for thought-provoking stories, with your host, Dr. Rod Berger. Today's episode bridges the past with the present as we delve into the compelling narrative crafted by Linda Ambrus Broenniman in her book "The Politzer Saga." In this conversation, Linda peels back the layers of a family secret Jewish ancestry hidden by immigrant parents in Buffalo, New York, a secret unveiled by the embers of a house fire. We're set to explore themes of identity, lineage's importance, and history's enduring echoes.

As we piece together the puzzle of Linda's ancestry, we reflect on the transformative power of truth, the role of individual stories within the grand tapestry of history, and the author's deep-rooted sense of responsibility to honor her past. This episode is not just about the Pulitzer family but about the universal quest for self-understanding and the cultivation of empathy towards others in the face of modern-day adversities.

Join us in this intimate discussion, only here on HeadRoom, co-produced by Rainlight and Old Soul, where we transcend the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary tales of human experience.

Timestamps

00:00 Understanding history through powerful, essential stories.

04:26 A Catholic man discovers secret Jewish ancestry in Buffalo.

09:00 Discovering Mother's hidden wartime heroism, a revelation.

11:07 In 2016, I began researching my family.

13:51 Curiosity sparked in 2016 leads to exploration.

16:45 Reflect on personal, family, researcher, and citizen experiences.

19:51 Persistence, risk-taking, and the importance of accepting life's journey.

23:35 Childhood secrets and trauma strain father-daughter relationship.

29:14 Close partner, dedicated to truth, died in 2021.

32:35 Discovering ancestors brought understanding, confidence, and purpose.

34:30 Discussing present-day challenges and family legacies.

37:06 Holocaust stories show immense resilience and impact.

42:44 Questioning the impact of literature on injustice and war.

45:15 Importance of history for understanding oneself.

50:08 Powerful story challenges thinking, highly recommended book.

Connect with Linda Ambrus Broenniman

Website: https://politzersaga.com/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Ken Janssens of Windō on Sustainability Data & Next Gen Talent

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 00:11:41 +0000

Berger sits down with Windō co-founder and former Chief Data Officer at J.P. Morgan Ken Janssens. The duo explores the new relationship between data and the talent pipeline across the globe. Janssens discusses efforts to more substantively examine sustainability efforts, lengths to close pay gaps, and diversity inequities expressed throughout global markets and the organizations primed to meet the growing expectations of the generations to come. Professional organizations and iconic companies are aiming to provide an inclusive workplace supporting a healthy talent base and planet to explore - Janssens and Windō are working hard to capture data with purpose, compassion, and precision. Story is our currency, as Berger frequently espouses, and data is a main character in an evolving story. You won't want to miss this personal look at a professional's journey to breathe life into meaningful and needed corporate conversations.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Fashion & Retail Icon Bruno Schiavi

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:43:02 +0000

In the high-stakes world of global retail and brand development, Bruno Schiavi's name is
synonymous with innovation, strategic foresight, and an unerring knack for market disruption.
Schiavi's groundbreaking collaborations with the Kardashian empire and the meteoric rise of Uncle
Bud’s HEMP & CBD paints a picture of a business savant who has redefined the retail
landscape. Berger gets at the heart of this global icon and the people and places that
have defined an ever-expanding career of influence.

The genesis of Schiavi's storied career can be traced back to 1996 with the launch of the Pocket
Sock. This product, embodying simplicity and innovation, marked Schiavi's first foray into the
retail world, setting a precedent for his future endeavors. This humble beginning was a prelude to
a career that would amass over $1 billion in global retail sales, a testament to Schiavi's unerring
instinct for market trends and consumer needs.

Over a span of 25 years, Schiavi meticulously built a network that became the backbone of his
success. His ability to forge lasting relationships with some of the world's most formidable
celebrities, Fortune 500 companies, and retail players stands as a cornerstone of his business
strategy. These connections, coupled with his deep understanding of the global market, have
elevated Schiavi to a position of unparalleled influence in the retail sector.

The collaboration between Schiavi and the Kardashians represents a seminal chapter in his
career. The inception of the Kardashian Kollection is a study in strategic brand positioning and
celebrity marketing. Schiavi's acumen in recognizing the potential of merging Kardashian's
widespread appeal with accessible fashion and lifestyle products led to one of the most
successful celebrity-endorsed retail ventures of its time.

Under Schiavi's guidance, the Kardashian Kollection transcended the typical celebrity
endorsement model. He crafted diverse products that resonated with the everyday
consumer, ensuring that each item reflected the Kardashian brand's essence and appeal. The
collection's expansion into over 10,000 stores globally is a testament to Schiavi's adeptness at
scaling a brand, managing supply chains, and navigating the complex web of global retail
distribution.

This venture also showcased Schiavi's ability to effectively harness media and public relations.
Through strategic marketing campaigns, attention-grabbing launches, and savvy use of social
media, the Kardashian Kollection became a household name, further cementing Schiavi's
reputation as a master of celebrity-driven retail success.

Perhaps even more illustrative of Schiavi's business prowess is his revitalization of Uncle Bud’s
HEMP & CBD. In 2019, he took control of a brand that was little more than a nascent online
entity and propelled it to the forefront of the burgeoning CBD market. Schiavi's intervention
transformed Uncle Bud’s from a single-product company to a diverse brand featuring over 72
new items.

The rapid expansion of Uncle Bud’s under Schiavi's leadership is a masterclass in brand scaling.
Within 19 months, the brand's products were available in over 15,000 U.S. stores across the US
and Internationally. This achievement did not just signify growth in numbers but also marked a
strategic diversification of the brand's product line and consumer base.

Uncle Bud’s financial transformation is equally staggering. Under Schiavi's stewardship,
the brand's annual revenue catapulted from a modest $500 when he acquired the brand to an
astounding $40 million in four years. This remarkable growth culminated in a lucrative
acquisition by a Public Company, a move that underscored the brand's market viability and
Schiavi's strategic genius.

Bruno Schiavi's journey is more than a series of successful business ventures; it is a narrative of
visionary leadership, strategic innovation, and an unyielding commitment to brand development.
His work with the Kardashian Kollection and Uncle Bud’s HEMP & CBD are emblematic of his
ability to anticipate market trends and create them.

Schiavi remains a towering figure in the retail industry, a testament to what can be
achieved when creativity meets strategic business acumen. His legacy is not just in the brands he has
built but in the new standards he has set for retail success in the modern era.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Author Barbara Sommer Feigin & Peter Feigin President, Milwaukee Bucks

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 13:51:26 +0000

Taking us from Nazi Germany at age two to the boardroom of Gray Advertising (now Grey Global Group), Barbara Feigin's new book My American Dream: A Journey from Fascism to Freedom (Five Star Press, Jan. 2024) is a memoir of resilience, grit and grace. In this powerful episode, Feigin tells of her life as a young German-speaking refugee in a small Washington town yearning to become an “authentic” American. She details how she became a trailblazing executive in the advertising industry's male-dominated 1960s ‘Mad Men’ era–rising through the ranks and ultimately securing a seat in the boardroom. Often, she was the only woman in the room.

My American Dream begins with the entire text of her Jewish father's journal about the terrifying details of the family's escape from Germany, coming to the U.S. by way of Lithuania, Russia, China, Korea, and Japan before crossing the Pacific. Then we learn of her remarkable career, her devotion to her husband, who suffered two strokes, and the happiness of raising three successful sons, one of whom is the president of the Milwaukee Bucks.

Barbara and Peter join Berger in a heartfelt and revealing examination of family, perseverance, and pride.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Media Juggernaut Sharon Rechter

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 7 Feb 2024 18:08:20 +0000

HeadRoom with the incomparable co-founder and President of First Media, Sharon Rechter. Dr. Rod and Sharon discuss what it's like to build a media company from the ground up in an ever-changing media space, her life and family, and her inspiration to work as tirelessly as she does. Sharon is a powerhouse rooted in family, history, and impact.

First Media is a leading media publisher with over 250 million followers and reaches 71% of U.S. women every month across its brand portfolio. As President, she has grown the business from a single linear cable channel to a global media business with over 200 employees across three countries.

Within two years of their inception, First Media’s social brands - So Yummy, Blossom, Blusher, and Babyfirst, became #1 in the world with the most viewed and engaged content. In addition, First Media has also partnered with top brands to create the best-performing sponsored video content on Facebook, reaching the top spot 6 years in a row. Brand partners include Walmart, Unilever, Kraft Heinz, Mattel, Sony, and Facebook - just a few of the brands partnering with First Media to build and activate audiences worldwide.

The company’s first venture, TV, with the Babyfirst and SoYummy TV networks, currently reaches over 100 million U.S. TV homes combined.
Sharon is a powerhouse entrepreneur who embodies the mission of the business as a do-it-all woman and mother of four. She was named in the top 40 Under 40 Women in Cable, and One of the Most Influential Women in Cable and Broadband in 2020. Sharon also won the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2019 and wrote the best-selling children’s book, “The Girl from There,” at the age of 11. Sharon is a public speaker who is committed to helping women lead inspired lives.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Famed Speaker Richard Gerver

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 18:28:10 +0000

Richard Gerver came to prominence when, as a headteacher, he turned around a failing school in the UK in under two years. Winning plaudits globally, Richard was labeled The Walt Disney of The Classroom by the UK media and went on to win a multitude of international awards, including a UNESCO award for leadership and innovation, Global Gurus Top 30 Thinker, and The National Teaching Awards, Headteacher of the Year.

Using his unique experience and insight, Richard has become one of the world’s most influential experts on change and human leadership, helping clients worldwide struggling with uncertainty and change caused by rapid and dramatic shifts in technological, economic, political, health, and environmental developments.

His impactful and sustainable leadership philosophies and strategies for change have seen him work with iconic brands, organizations, and individuals, including Google, Microsoft, Deloitte, Visa, and GSK, President Obama, The Dalai Lama, Steve Wozniak, and Eric Schmidt. He has spoken to audiences worldwide, including in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, China, Russia, The UAE, Mexico, Chile, Panama, Costa Rica, Colombia, Brazil and Spain.

Richard was also described by Sir Ken Robinson as,

"One of the clearest and most passionate voices for radical change both in education and in business... In his compelling presentations and books, he takes his powerful message of hope and possibility to educators, business leaders and policymakers around the world. It's a message that has to be heard."

The author of four renowned books drawing on Richard’s experience as an educator and consultant to businesses and organizations, he also has two hugely successful courses on LinkedIn Learning.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Historian Steve Babson on Populism in the U.S.

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 7 Dec 2023 21:28:13 +0000

In HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger, the topic of populism is explored with historian and author Dr. Steve Babson.

In the newly released book Forgotten Populists: When Farmers Turned Left to Save Democracy (Mission Point Press: April 25, 2023), author Steve Babson, Ph.D tells the story of how the Populists of the 1890s transformed the nation’s political terrain—and in the quick-read 50-page illustrated book -- shows how that history still resonates today.

Steve Babson, Ph.D. is a labor educator and union activist living in Detroit with his wife, Nancy Brigham. He received his doctorate in U.S. history from Wayne State University, where he worked as an instructor and extension program coordinator in the Labor Studies Center.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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The Evolving Role of AI in Society with Alex Swartsel of Jobs for the Future

berger.rod@gmail.com (Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 5 Dec 2023 20:07:05 +0000

Welcome back to HeadRoom, in today's episode, we dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) with our special guest, Alex Swartsel, the managing director of Insights at Jobs for the Future. Guided by our host, Dr. Rod Berger, the duo unravels the complex narratives surrounding AI and its impact on jobs, skills, and society as a whole.

From the binary views of AI as either a savior or an extinction-level event, to the need for nuanced understanding and better questions, we explore the evolving role of AI and its broad application in various sectors. Swartsel shares fascinating insights on AI's presence in large language models and unveils recent research conducted by Jobs for the Future on AI and its implications.

But what does AI mean for jobs and skills? Can AI truly replace humans, or is there a world where humans and machines collaborate? We discuss the transformative power of AI on tasks and skills, from automating routine and repetitive tasks to elevating complex cognitive skills and critical thinking.

However, it's not just about technology and jobs. We delve into the ethical aspects of AI, considering the impact on privacy, equity, and the distribution of opportunity. Swartsel emphasizes the importance of making thoughtful choices centered on the human experience while safeguarding against inequalities and ensuring equal educational opportunities.

If you're curious about how AI can make our lives better and how we can harness its power to build a more equitable society, this episode is a must-listen.

So, grab your headphones and tune in to HeadRoom with Alex Swartsel and Dr. Rod Berger as they take you on a thought-provoking journey into the world of AI, exploring its impact on jobs, skills, and ultimately, our shared future.

Key Moments

01:36 AI's impact and understanding vary widely; concern grows.

05:38 Understanding AI's application in a broad way

07:41 AI innovation accessible to all for free

10:02 Education system key to nourishing economy. AI impact on jobs and skills.

15:14 AI augments tasks, but human judgment remains.

19:16 World's evolution, important question, human vs. machine work.

22:35 Exciting potential risks of AI and education.

25:43 Difficult to enforce; ask important questions.

29:36 Equal opportunity, meaningful work, equitable society, AI accountability.

31:17 Envisioning equity through questioning, persistence, and agency.

Connect with Alex Swartsel
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jobs-for-the-future/

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Cindy Watson on the Power of Negotiation

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 17:37:49 +0000

The Power Within: Cindy Watson's Journey

In today's episode, we have the privilege of talking to the one and only Cindy Watson, founder of Women on Purpose and creator of the groundbreaking book Art of Feminine Negotiation.

Cindy has an impressive background as an attorney specializing in social justice law for over three decades, is a TEDx and international speaker, a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author, and a negotiation coach and consultant. Her expertise and passion lie in helping people reframe their mindset, value themselves, and negotiate from a place of collaboration and service.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Cindy shares her journey from being a “barracuda” in her early legal career to becoming a renowned author and speaker. She reveals how her own experiences and personal revelations propelled her to develop the principles outlined in her book, "The Art of Feminine Negotiation." While the book focuses on empowering women, Cindy believes its principles can benefit everyone and be applied to various aspects of life.

We delve into the conditioning we receive to exert power and control over others in negotiations and how Cindy advocates for a shift toward collaboration, creation, and authenticity. We also discuss how negotiation goes beyond mere business dealings, touching on mental health, the importance of reducing stigma, and the need for meaningful discussions and actions to address these issues.

Join us as we explore the fascinating world of negotiation with Cindy Watson and discover how reframing conflict and power can improve the world. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's dive into another enriching episode of HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger.

Key Moments

00:40 Cindy Watson: Expert in negotiation and inspiration.

03:29 The threshold for confident communication in negotiation.

07:59 In business, we underestimate the value of "soft skills" and feminine traits.

11:04 Reevaluating society, prioritizing collaboration, challenging gender norms.

16:09 Girls conditioned to be small, women competing.

18:18 Layering, freedom, negotiation, friendship, differing opinions, risk.

22:34 Painting the revealing moment of book ownership.

27:07 Missed opportunity, adaptability, conflict-driven, negative effects.

28:05 Transition: A small moment with son changed everything.

32:58 Gender roles shifting, pushback as women rise.

37:16 Negotiating with oneself to communicate authenticity needs. Applies to diverse audiences and future skill sets.

39:14 Check out the book Cindy’s book, Art of Feminine Negotiation

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Podcast Produced by Old Soul: https://bit.ly/3KuYfrD

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Dr. Jason Jay - ChatGPT's Impact In Education

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 16:45:36 +0000

Jason Jay is a Senior Lecturer at the MIT Sloan School of Management and Director of the Sustainability Initiative at MIT Sloan.

He teaches courses on leadership, strategy, and innovation for sustainable business. Jason engages students and alumni in hands-on projects with leading companies and organizations. These efforts help build a community of innovators for sustainability that includes MIT students and alumni, faculty and researchers, with partners in business, government, NGOs, and hybrid organizations.

Jason’s research focuses on how people navigate the tensions inherent in the quest for sustainability, as they simultaneously pursue their own self-interest and the flourishing of human and other life. This work includes deep case studies of cross-sectoral collaboration and hybrid organizations that combine social and business goals. These case studies have been published in the Academy of Management Journal and California Management Review. He also contributes to the MIT Sloan Management Review, Stanford Social Innovation Review, and Greenbiz on the topic of sustainability-oriented innovation (SOI). A key finding of his research is that social innovation occurs through authentic conversations that hold the tension between divergent values and perspectives. With Gabriel Grant, he is the author of Breaking Through Gridlock: The Power of Conversation in a Polarized World.

As a facilitator and consultant, Jason has helped advance sustainability strategy with companies like Biogen, Novartis, and Bose. He is a research partner and facilitator for the EDF Climate Corps and its network of companies. He has contributed to the strategy and curriculum of the Harvard Kennedy School’s Social Innovation and Change Initiative as a faculty affiliate.

Prior to MIT, Jay ran an internet startup, traveled around the world, taught kindergarten in a progressive preschool, and worked as a consultant with Dialogos International, where he consulted on leadership development and organizational change for major international corporations and NGO's including BP and the World Bank.

Jay holds an AB in psychology and a Master's in education from Harvard University, and a PhD in Organization Studies from the MIT Sloan School of Management.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Miki Agrawal

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 14:06:56 +0000

Miki Agrawal, the trailblazing Brooklyn-based entrepreneur and thought leader known for founding two $100 million companies that put her on the cover of Entrepreneur magazine - TUSHY and THINX - joins HeadRoom. Check out some of her past coverage and watch her 2019 Mindvalley Talk.
Miki's journey in the world of entrepreneurship saw both great successes and major challenges. Having risen to prominence, she found herself in the center of a media storm tied to allegations of sexual misconduct by a former employee amidst the Harvey Weinstein scandal. Despite the allegations ultimately being dismissed by both the NY Supreme Court and the New York Arbitration Association, the damage to her reputation led to her stepping down from the very company she built from the ground up.
Now, for the first time, Miki is ready to share her side of this story, drawing on the lessons learned and the strength gained from this experience. In addition, Miki has just released her debut album, a soulful music release inspired by her recent divorce. This chapter of her life, she believes, parallels her experience at THINX - both instances spotlighting the multifaceted textures of life and love and the reality that they can exist simultaneously. She views these experiences not as setbacks but as opportunities for growth and transformation.
Miki's journey, being half Japanese and half Indian, growing up in French Montreal Canada, and now living in Austin, Texas, embodies a rich blend of cultural influences. Her resilience and pursuit of truth echo the spirit of her father, who arrived in America from India with only $5 to his name.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Deniz Ozgur

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Sat, 16 Sep 2023 13:47:00 +0000

HeadRoom with Deniz Ozgur

Dr. Rod Berger is joined by Deniz Ozgur, recognized on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list, and operates at the nexus of technology, finance, and fashion. After securing a degree in Economics and Finance in 2020, she moved rapidly into the role of Head of Growth at Techsign, an industry leader in AI-enhanced KYC solutions. In 2021, Deniz co-founded Space Runners, swiftly assembling a 60-person team and raising $12 million in initial funding. The company set a landmark by launching a $10 million digital collectible (NFT) collection in collaboration with NBA champions Kyle Kuzma and Nick Young, which sold out in a record 9 seconds. Partnerships with fashion titans like Balmain, Kickz, and Smiley further bolstered the company’s innovative stance in the fashion arena. Additionally, Space Runners is developing the first-ever AI fashion designer, designed to democratize fashion by allowing anyone to create and market their own items. Deniz has also contributed his expertise as a mentor in Farfetch’s innovation program, reinforcing her commitment to driving innovation in the fashion space.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Code.org's Hadi Partovi

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 14:21:41 +0000

HeadRoom with Code.org's Hadi Partovi

Hadi Partovi is a tech entrepreneur, investor, and CEO of the education nonprofit Code.org. Partovi discusses AI 101 for Teachers and how the world might change due to the power of technology across the globe.

Born in Tehran, Iran, Hadi grew up during the Iran-Iraq war. His school did not offer computer science classes, so he taught himself to code at home on a Commodore 64. After immigrating to the United States, he spent his summers working as a software engineer to help pay his way through high school and college.

Upon graduating from Harvard University with a Masters degree in computer science, Hadi pursued a career in technology, starting at Microsoft, where he rose into the executive ranks. He founded two startups: Tellme Networks (acquired by Microsoft) and iLike (acquired by Newscorp). Hadi now invests and advises other technology startups.

In 2013 Hadi and his twin brother Ali launched the education nonprofit Code.org, which Hadi continues to lead full-time as CEO. Code.org has established computer science classes reaching 30% of US students, created the most broadly used curriculum platform for K-12 computer science, and launched the global Hour of Code movement that has reached hundreds of millions of students spanning every country in the world.

Hadi has served as an early advisor or investor at many tech startups, including Facebook, Dropbox, airbnb, and Uber. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of Axon and MNTN.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Famed Mathematician Conrad Wolfram

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 16:27:01 +0000

HeadRoom with Conrad Wolfram

Conrad Wolfram is the younger Wolfram of Wolfram Research—it's the brothers who started Wolfram|Alpha, Demonstrations, and the core underlying technology—Mathematica. Conrad founded the European Wolfram Research in 1991 after his brother Stephen set up the headquarters in the US.
Since 1997 Conrad has also been strategic director of the worldwide group and initiated and directed their business, marketing, design, and a variety of strategic technical projects - everything from the CDF Player concept to webMathematica (which underlies Wolfram|Alpha) to conceptualizing wolfram.com. In doing this, Wolfram has formed new concepts of management, including the early use of website design to define strategy, "strategic bundles," and industry solutions sites as a way to verticalize activities.

Wolfram is interested in how technology and computation can move our lives and economies forward and, in turn, how this affects education. In particular, Wolfram realized that the school subject of maths has become almost totally discrepant from its real-world application, and in 2010 founded computerbasedmath.org to address this worldwide.

In 2020, Wolfram released The Math(s) Fix: An Education Blueprint for the AI Age. It exposes why maths education is in crisis worldwide and how the only fix is a fundamentally new mainstream subject—not only identifying the problem but also proposing a detailed solution and suggesting some of the ways we might get there.

Wolfram has an MA from Cambridge University, UK, where he studied physics and mathematics.s

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Famed NBA Trainer Chris Brickley

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 17:13:12 +0000

HeadRoom with Chris Brickley - With nearly 60 NBA players as clients and a viral online following, Chris Brickley is one of the most sought-after NBA skills trainers. Based in New York, his off-season workouts attract NBA titans and up-and-comers as well as music icons. Chris shares his training moments with his 1.5 million Instagram followers - blurring the lines between coaching, social media influence, and hoops culture.

After cultivating a strong relationship with stars like Carmelo Anthony while serving as a player development coach for the New York Knicks, Brickley eventually left to pursue his own lane.

Since then, he has carved himself a niche as an influencer at the intersection of fashion, music, and lifestyle. His gym’s All-Star open runs receive millions of impressions. Brand partners include Puma, Wilson, NBA2K, Bose, BODYARMOR, Lids, Google Pixel and Therabody.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Dr. Lee Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 7 Aug 2023 13:50:10 +0000

HeadRoom with Dr. Lee Berger

Paleoanthropology, Research, Human Ancestors

Dr. Berger and Dr. Berger (yeah, that's right) discuss Lee's Netflix documentary about his book, Cave of Bones, and his perspective on life and the big questions still remaining about our species.

Lee Berger is an award-winning paleoanthropologist whose explorations into human origins on the African continent, Asia, and Micronesia for the past three decades have resulted in many new discoveries, including the discovery of two new species of early human relatives – Australopithecus sediba and Homo naledi. These discoveries were recognized by the Smithsonian as among the ten most important scientific discoveries of the decade in 2020. A current National Geographic Explorer in Residence, Berger won the first National Geographic Society Research and Exploration Prize in 1997. He was also named the Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year in 2016 and, two years later, became an Explorer at Large. In 2016 he was named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World. Berger has held positions at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa since 1991, where until recently, he served as the Phillip Tobias Chair in Human Evolution. He has also served in a number of advisory roles, including the Global Young Academy, the Jane Goodall Institute South Africa, and has chaired the Fulbright Commission. As an Explorer in Residence, Berger leads National Geographic’s “Rising Star” project, named for the cave system and fossil site in southern Africa, where he conducts his research. Teams under his leadership have recovered more individual hominid remains in sub-equatorial Africa over the last decade than were recovered in the previous 90 years. The 2015 PBS Nova National Geographic documentary "Dawn of Humanity," about Berger’s discovery of Homo naledi and the Rising Star expedition was nominated for an Emmy. Berger’s curiosity and passion for understanding the roots of humanity powers his work to advance knowledge about the origins of our species.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Bobby Bones

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 20:00:00 +0000

Bobby Bones (born Bobby Estell; April 2, 1980)[1] is an American radio and television personality, best known for hosting the nationally syndicated The Bobby Bones Show, originating from the iHeart Studios in Nashville, TN, and for his role as a full-time mentor on American Idol on ABC. He was the winner of season 27 of Dancing with the Stars with partner Sharna Burgess. He has also written two New York Times best sellers. Bones has also released a number of country music albums through Black River Entertainment.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Angie Murimirwa

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 16:00:00 +0000

HeadRoom with Angie Murimirwa

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Why Famed Artist Rich Tu's Human Response Exhibit is a Must-See

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 19:35:35 +0000

On this episode of HeadRoom, host Dr. Rod Berger invites Rich Tu, a first-generation Filipino American, onto the show to discuss his current exhibit 'Human Response'. Rich is an award-winning designer and artist based in Brooklyn who has worked with several high-profile clients and has exhibited around the world. Dr. Berger delves deep with Rich to ask him about his vulnerability as an artist and how his personal experiences have influenced his work.

They explore the convergence of technology and traditional art and discuss the importance of human experiences in AI. The episode also explores the speaker's personal journey of coping with the loss of a loved one, his struggle with taking time off, and his journey toward producing his current exhibit.

Key Moments
[00:05:02] A humorous approach used to tap into the zeitgeist. Commercial interests involve risk, players, and scope. Showing his work, "Human Response," inspired by his father's passing a year ago.

[00:06:51] Using AI for mental health therapy, assembling conversations into a narrative, quantifying emotional responses, creating typographic compositions, and augmented reality filters.

[00:13:16] Tu discusses personal insecurities & vulnerability in creative work and how it impacts his relationships.

[00:14:27] The process of creating a show and exhibit about one's father, with the help of a curator. The exhibit includes emotional and vulnerable prompts, also including the obituary displayed at the beginning of the exhibit.

[00:20:05] A personal mission is to maximize creative skills and push tech in augmented reality and AI, inspiring peers and wanting to make an impact on the creative industry.

[00:25:04] Tu seeks authorship through new experiences and learning from great educators. Marshall Arisman's iconic work and emotional energy is mentioned as an inspiration.

[00:29:21] The struggle to take vacations even though Tu won a sabbatical and intended to travel but remained working on the show.

[00:33:23] Details about the exhibit include: it is open to the public until June 24th, at Dot Gallery located at 370 Broadway in SoHo.

Connect with Rich Tu
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rich_tu/
Website: https://richtu.com/

About Rich Tu:

Rich Tu is a first-generation Filipino-American and award-winning designer and artist residing in Brooklyn, NY. He is a Partner and Executive Creative Director at Sunday Afternoon. Previously, Rich has held creative leadership roles at Jones Knowles Ritchie, MTV Entertainment Group, and Nike Inc.

In addition, he hosts the Webby Honoree podcast First Generation Burden, which focuses on intersectionality and diversity within the creative industry, and is co-founder of the COLORFUL awards with the One Club for Creativity, dedicated to creating opportunities for early career BIPOC creatives.

Tu's recent work, "Human Response," is an interactive exhibit about processing grief in the era of artificial intelligence, consisting of dynamic typographic compositions, augmented reality, and an animated short. The exhibit is open to the public until June 24th at Dot Gallery, located at 370 Broadway in SoHo. Curated by Ché Morales and presented by Sunday Afternoon.

Awards and honors include ADC Awards, D&AD, Webby Awards, Telly Awards, CLIOs, Cynopsis D Awards, PromaxBDA, The Shorty Awards, Power of Purpose Award, New York Festivals, ADC Young Guns, PRINT Magazine, American Photography, American Illustration, and The Society of Illustrators among others.

Clients and collaborators include The New York Times, The New Yorker, MINI, NIKE, A24, Budweiser, Paramount, Adidas, Converse, G-Shock, American Express, NPR, NorthFace Purple Label, Coca-Cola, Verizon, Skype, Fuse TV, Alfa Romeo, Bombay Sapphire, and Hamilton The Musical, among others. Also, he has exhibited at galleries and festivals in New York, Los Angeles, Berlin, and Miami.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Karl Liapunov

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 10 May 2023 14:29:10 +0000

HeadRoom with Karl Liapunov

This is one of Berger's favorite episodes of the year - go behind the scenes with a leading entrepreneur who left the U.S. for Norway to become the Head of Energy at one of the world's most prolific incubators. Karl is transparent, inspiring, and just downright likable.

Karl Liapunov grew up in Ridgefield, CT, with an American father and a Norwegian mother. During his time in high school, he was an avid volleyball player - winning two state championships and finishing his last season as the Player of the Year.

Upon graduating high school, he moved to Los Angeles, where he received his degree in International Relations and Global Business at USC and also spent time working for a number of startups. After 4 years in LA, Karl moved to Houston, Texas, to join the Energy Tech team at Tudor, Pickering, Holt - an energy-focused investment bank. While at TPH, Karl worked closely with companies that were developing new technologies to revolutionize the energy industry on M&A transactions and capital raising.

In 2021, Karl decided he wanted to work with startups that were focused on the energy transition and climate tech, and there was no better place to do that than in his mother's home country. So in August of 2021, Karl moved to Oslo. Today, he is the Head of Energy at Startuplab - Norway’s premier startup incubator and early-stage investor.

Outside of work, Karl continues to nurture his love of volleyball by playing on the Norwegian Beach Volleyball Tour and has found a new passion for exploring Norway’s natural beauty on a mountain bike.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Steven Preston

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 20:38:19 +0000

Prior to joining GII, Preston held leadership positions in the public and private sectors. Preston served as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and as the Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, leading both federal agencies during times of national crisis.

He orchestrated successful turnarounds as the CEO of two private corporations, Oakleaf Global Holdings and Livingston International. He was also the CFO of two Fortune 500 companies — Waste Management and ServiceMaster — during times of significant change and restructuring for each company.

Preston is a member of Fast Company’s Impact Council and has been featured in the Associated Press, Forbes, The New York Times, and in The Wall Street Journal. He has also appeared on ABC’s “Pandemic,” Bloomberg TV, Cheddar, CNBC, C-SPAN, FOX Business‘ “Varney & Co.,” and Yahoo! Finance Live in addition to appearing on numerous radio shows, podcasts and YouTube series, including AEI‘s Hardly Working, Working Nation, Future of Work, Indeed‘s Here to Help, Partnering Leadership, and Accenture’s Change Conversations. Preston is a sought-after speaker on workforce development and skills for the future and has served as a keynote speaker for the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s Corporate Citizenship Conference: Business Solves, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Talent Forward Conference, the Small Business Administration’s National Small Business Week, and the Tugboat Institute Summit.

Preston graduated with Highest Distinction from Northwestern University and holds an MBA from The University of Chicago. Preston currently serves on the Partnership for Public Service and Wheaton College Board of Trustees.

Follow @StevenCPreston on Twitter.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Jessie James Decker

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 18:07:35 +0000

Jessie James Decker - Singer, songwriter, TV personality, fashion designer, beauty and lifestyle influencer/entrepreneur, and 2x New York Times best-selling author, Jessie James Decker has emerged as a multi-platform juggernaut juggling fashion brands like her personally designed Kittenish line with four retail stores and growing, along with her television hosting duties. Signed to Warner Music Nashville, Jessie’s passion for music has made the multi-talented artist one of music’s true breakout firebrands. The singer’s authentic style immediately captivated listeners everywhere on her 2009 self-titled debut. She continued to keep it real with her second studio album, 2017’s Southern Girl City Lights, which debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart. Now it’s onto a new musical chapter of growth and empowerment with The Woman I’ve Become EP. This year, Jessie was a fan favorite competing on the most recent season of Dancing With Stars, proving she really can do it all. Jessie lives with her husband, retired NFL player Eric Decker, and their three children, in Nashville, Tennessee.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Terry Bradshaw

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 17:33:43 +0000

NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Terry Bradshaw spends time with Dr. Rod Berger to discuss life after football, his time in front of the camera, retirement, horses, family, and entrepreneurship. Bradshaw is his usually affable self engaging Berger in an in-depth and revealing conversation. The interview takes twists and turns to land on his role as a brand, his products, and his vision for a good life.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Aubrey Flynn

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 17:51:41 +0000

HeadRoom with Aubrey Flynn - Aubrey Flynn, who after 15 years of working across A-listers’ brand portfolios including Diddy (Ciroc), Snoop Dogg (Indoggo), Charles Barkley (Redmont), etc. is excited to announce the launch of his own streetwear brand, Goals Supply. The collection features headwear, hoodies, sweatshirts, T-shirts, joggers, shorts, and footwear which includes a QR code on the clothing tags. The QR codes bring users to the Goals App, which offers up-and-coming entrepreneurs a roadmap to success. Flynn is looking to inspire up-and-coming entrepreneurs through this platform by offering tech, tools, and training under one roof, allowing them the freedom to grow their businesses on their own terms, quickly and affordably. Goals stands for “Get Over All Limits Successfully” and incorporates streetwear staples with accessibility to software, technology, tools, and training for brand building, which allows users to schedule social media posts, send SMS messages and emails to customers, revamp their website with WordPress, and list their business on search engines such as Google, and more. The Goals Supply collection features a sustainable, relaxed fit, and moisture-wicking garments are crafted from organic materials, recycled materials, or made in the USA and are great staples for everyday wear. The Goals Supply apparel is available for purchase exclusively at goalssupply.com. The Goals Supply App is available for download on the Google Play and App stores.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Global Education Coming To African Continent Through PowerSchool and OneConnect Collaboration

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 6 Mar 2023 16:20:31 +0000

Rogers Sithole & Hardeep Gulati join Dr. Rod Berger for this episode of HeadRoom. Gulati, the CEO of PowerSchool, and Sithole, the Chairman and Education Managing Director at OneConnect, stop by to talk about education across the African continent and the collaboration that aims to change the trajectory for millions of young people.

Gulati was recently named 2021 EdTech Company CEO of the Year by EdTech Breakthrough, and The Software Report recently ranked Gulati number five on its list of 50 SaaS CEOs, where he was honored as the top-ranking education software CEO within the list of prestigious executives. Gulati has also been the recipient of EdTech Digest’s EdTech Leadership/CEO Award and named executive of the year for two consecutive years by the Business Intelligence Group’s BIG Awards for Business.

Sithole, armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and in Computational & Applied Mathematics, furthered his studies at Wits University, where he attained an Honours Degree in Computer Science and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management.

With over 13 years of experience managing high-level, multi-national organizations, he is an incredible communicator, capable of building long-lasting relationships with management, clients, and partners.

Background information on the partnership:

PowerSchool (NYSE: PWSC), the leading provider of cloud-based software for K-12 education in North America, today announced the expansion of its Global channel partner initiative, the PowerPartner Program, with the program’s first channel partner in Africa, OneConnect. OneConnect is an innovative provider of turnkey technology services and solutions in South Africa and throughout the African continent.

The PowerPartner Program leverages PowerSchool’s regional channel partners to support localized marketing, sales, and customer deployment efforts. As the first channel partner in Africa, OneConnect will help grow PowerSchool’s customer base in South Africa and throughout the region and is expected to help the company serve more than 500,000 students across the continent in the next year.

“We are excited to announce our partnership with OneConnect,” said Hardeep Gulati, CEO of PowerSchool. “We’ve seen the innovative impact of OneConnect’s technology services and solutions and know they are the right partner to expand our support to the over 240 million students enrolled in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond.”

HeadRoom with Zaid Tahabsem

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 1 Mar 2023 17:22:52 +0000

HeadRoom with Zaid Tahabsem. A very poignant look at educational leadership through the lens of a father-son relationship from Amman, Jordan. Tahabsem is the Chief Business Development Officer at ITG and a part of the leadership team at the World Refugee School. I got an inside look at a man beyond his years committed to making a difference not just in his homeland but across the globe. I hope you enjoy this conversation - one of my favorites of the last year. -Rod

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Enter The Mozverse with Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 6 Feb 2023 15:13:07 +0000

Mozverse Background

Our Values

We believe that web3 should be fully transparent and open to everyone. Recent high-profile failures in the crypto industry have demonstrated the dangers of small, centralized groups operating in secrecy. While incumbent players with deep pockets try to replicate the walled-garden approach of web2 in web3, we believe that web3 requires a more level playing field.

What We Do

We provide the tools businesses need to deploy web3 products and services to their target market.

Who We Serve

We do not limit ourselves to a specific size of the organization. Our target firms could be startups or Fortune 500 companies. What connects them is a desire to solve problems such as building products and engaging customers in the meta-economy, or adapting their existing business to web3.

Check out Dr. Berger's Recent Article in Forbes about the Mozverse HERE

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Halle Stanford | The Producer of Wonder and Magic | Headroom with Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 23:43:04 +0000

HeadRoom with Halle Stanford, President of Television at The Jim Henson Company.

Stanford joined The Jim Henson Company in 1993 and worked on beloved Muppet projects like Muppet Treasure Island, Muppets Tonight, Bear in the Big Blue House, Animal Jam, and The Hoobs, as well as the sci-fi cult classic Farscape. In 2000, Stanford founded 7 Crow Stories, her own company specializing in original children’s content, fantasy storytelling, and rebranding classic franchises. Some of her clients over the next three years included Disney Junior, Cartoon Network, Warner Brothers Studios, Classic Media, and The Jim Henson Company. She created and produced Jim Henson’s Animal Jam and Classic Media’s Pat the Bunny, as well as overseeing the production of Krypto the Super Dog and Baby Looney Toons for Warner Brothers Animation. In 2003, Stanford returned to The Jim Henson Company to build up the television and digital franchises of the Company and establish its creative culture following the sale of the Muppets brand to The Walt Disney Company.

Stanford is a Primetime Emmy Award-winning, eleven-time Emmy-nominated children’s television producer, recipient of the Cynopsis Top Women In Media Award C Corporate Visionary, Cynopsis Kids !magination Award in Content Leadership, and for the last sixteen years has garnered over 100 honors around the globe for the Company’s programming, including Academy of Television Arts and Sciences’ Emmy Awards, The Norman Lear Center’s Sentinel Awards, NAPPA Honors Award – National Parents Publications Awards, Parent’s Choice Awards – Gold Honor, Banff World Media Festival – Rockie Award Grand Prize, Kidscreen Awards – Finalist, Prix Jeunesse Catalogue, Cynopsis Kids – !magination Awards, The Humane Society of The United States – Genesis Awards, Japan Prize, CINE – Golden Eagle Award, and Common Sense Media – 10 Best TV Role Models. She has also judged the International Emmy Kids Awards and the Rockie Awards for Preschool Programming for the Banff World Media Festival.

In addition to creating children’s media, Stanford has co-authored the children’s book series Jim Henson’s Enchanted Sisters, a collection of fantastical comedy-adventure stories published by Bloomsbury. She has written numerous articles on kids and family entertainment for publications such as TBI, PBS Parents, Cynopsis Kids, NAPS, and Mother Magazine. She is a proud mom to two sons (ages 11 and 24!), holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Film and Theater from Wesleyan University, is on the board of directors for the Independent Shakespeare Company, proud of her Jewish heritage and on the Advisory Board for the Creative Community for Peace, and is on an endless quest to enrich the lives of children and families around the globe.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Callie Christensen and Kelly Oriard | The Duo Behind Slumberkins | Headroom With Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 18:55:39 +0000

Slumberkins is a wonderful show for children streaming on AppleTV+. By emphasizing positivity, connection, and authenticity, Slumberkins supports a strong foundation for lifelong emotional wellness.

Get the inside scoop on two moms, a dream, and countless trips to find material. Slumberkins is produced by the Jim Henson Company and extends resources beyond the show and into the hands of parents and educators across the country.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Music Producer Scott Storch

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 19 Jan 2023 19:59:18 +0000

Songwriter and producer Scott Storch sits down with Berger in Miami at his home studio. Storch joined up with Roots in 1994. The group’s first album Organix leaned heavily on Storch’s distinctive use of the Fender Rhodes and would help define their sound. Storch’s playing eventually led him to Dr. Dre, for whom he came up with the classic piano riff that propels the 1999 hit “Still D.R.E.” Storch went on to produce hit records for the likes of Beyoncé, Fat Joe, DJ Khaled, and Justin Timberlake, becoming one of the most sought after producers of the mid-’00s. His infamous party lifestyle eventually led to Storch entering rehab in 2009 and filing for bankruptcy in 2015. He has returned to the music industry with more drive and inspiration than ever, working with some of the most exciting names in modern rap, including Young Thug, Russ, and Trippie Red.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Yousef Hamidaddin | Picking Up The Nuance of Experience | Headroom With Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 9 Jan 2023 14:28:14 +0000

HeadRoom wtih Yousef Hamidaddin is a special episode of HeadRoom. Dr. Rod Berger visited with Hamidaddin in Jordan to discuss family heritage, culture, and the evolution of technology and inspiration around the globe. Hamidaddin is a direct descendent of the Prophet Muhammad the founder of Islam. Sit back, relax and enjoy one of Dr. Berger's favorite interviews over the last year.

Yousef Hamidaddin has worked as an advisor to The World Bank, The Innovative Startups and SMEs Fund (“ISSF”) which managed a $98 million fund, making investments in innovative startups and early stage SMEs. He was a board member of ICTAC (ICT Advisory Council) to the Minister of ICT in Jordan, a board member of Int@j (Information & Communication Association of Jordan) which is a voluntary non-profit, private organization representing, promoting and advancing the Jordanian software and IT services industry in the global market.

An advisor, and frequent speaker on innovation, entrepreneurship, & acceleration, with a love for curating photo exhibitions, and collecting photos on his region, Yousef has made an incredible impact not only on Jordan, but the world as a whole.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Chelsea Nassib | Bringing The Art Market Online | Headroom With Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 22:51:39 +0000

Tappan Collective co-founder, Chelsea Neman Nassib, launched her business in 2012 with a unique vision - to connect leading, emerging artists to new and seasoned collectors across the world while supporting artists to explore and evolve their practice fully.

Her mission is to reinvent the approach to discovering and collecting contemporary art, going beyond the traditional art paradigm to showcase exceptional emerging talent through digital content, art exhibitions, and strategic partnerships.

Transparency in price and availability of the work are the two key cornerstones of Tappan's business model.

To view their collection or to buy a new piece, visit their website here: www.tappancollective.com

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Walid Tahabsem

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 6 Dec 2022 15:33:30 +0000

HeadRoom with Walid Tahabsem

After receiving his B.Sc. in Computer Science from Yarmouk University in Jordan, he founded Integrated Technology Group back in 1989. Today, as ITG President & CEO, Mr. Tahabsem leads one of the most successful IT companies offering quality end-to-end products and services for the education and public sectors worldwide.

Over the years, Mr. Tahabsem has been an active member of a number of key national boards, councils, and associations, including; Jordan’s National Agenda, Jordan’s Board of Education, Jordan University for Science and Technology (JUST) Advisory Council, German Jordan University (GJU) Advisory Council, Information Technology Association of Jordan (INT@J) Board, and Jordan’s Youth Development Program INJAZ. Mr. Tahabsem currently serves on the Prince Hamzah Bin Al Hussein School Board and Jordan’s ICT Advisory Council and is also a member of the Jordan Strategy Forum (JSF).

He also serves on the “Endeavor” Board of Directors due to his belief in the active role they play in enhancing the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. He is also a co-founder and a board member of the Oasis500 (now VentureX), the region’s premier education and counselor-driven seed investment program. In addition, he is an active member of Saudi Al-Aghar Thinktank, a nonprofit and independent Think-Tank aiming to transform Saudi Arabia into a Knowledge Society.

Mr. Tahabsem is a Board Member of Naua, an initiative run by the Crown Prince Foundation, designed to increase charitable work and develop a sense of community responsibility. He is also a board member of the National Tourism Council and the Military Credit Fund.

In recognition of his outstanding efforts and leadership in the Information Technology and Education sectors in Jordan, Mr. Tahabsem was awarded the Order of Independence by His Majesty King Abdullah II Bin Al Hussein in 2015, becoming the first Jordanian honored in this category. He has also been granted a membership certificate from the Aal Al-Bayt Institute for Islamic Thought in recognition of his scientific and technical efforts.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Alex Albon | Never Going To Change Who I Am | Headroom with Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 1 Dec 2022 14:37:56 +0000

Alexander Albon is a Thai-British racing driver for Williams Racing in the 2022 Formula One World Championship.

Alex started racing at the age of 8, racing karts in the Honda Cadet class from 2005. His karting success snowballed from the off, Albon had the remarkable record of not finishing outside the Top 3 in any championship he competed in from 2006 - 2011.

From the 2012 season onwards, he graduated to single-seaters. Alex's highlights in Formula car racing have come in the 2014 Formula Renault 2.0 Eurocup, where he was 3rd overall and the 2016 GP3 Series, which saw him finish 2nd overall - just behind Champion Charles Leclerc.

Alex joined Williams Racing for the 2022 season.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Harry Sanders | Passion Leads To Success | Headroom With Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Sun, 27 Nov 2022 16:00:44 +0000

At the YPO I had the opportunity to meet up with many of the worlds leading entrepreneurs and CEOs. Today I talk to Harry Sanders, the Founder and Director of Studiohawk, a London based SEO specialist agency.

Founded in 2019, StudioHawk London is dedicated to search engine optimisation. Their SEO services are responsive, ethical, authentic, and delivered by a genuinely passionate and diverse team of SEO specialists in Melbourne and London. The journey of StudioHawk has been on BBC World News, Forbes, SmartCompany, and dozens of other publications.

The YPO is an organization that was founded in the 1950's, with over 30,000 members globally across 142 countries. They are a global leadership community of extraordinary chief executives that share their experiences and learnings in order to become better leaders and better people.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Simon Cohen | The Happiness Leader | Headroom With Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 15:16:46 +0000

Simon Cohen, President, and CEO of Henco Global sat down with Dr. Rod Berger at YPO in New York this month. The man who famously quips people over profits talks about his history as a leader and the events that led to his overt affection for the role happiness plays in our personal and professional lives.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Dov Seidman | Philosophy of Business? | Headroom With Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 15:52:36 +0000

“When you press the pause button on a machine it stops. But when you press the pause button on human beings, they start.” -Dov Seidman

Dov Seidman is a successful entrepreneur and CEO, best-selling author and writer, and a teacher.

He has devoted his life and professional career to making philosophy and philosophical frameworks practical in the business arena and across all sectors of society on a global scale.

Seidman is the author of the New York Times best-seller “HOW: Why HOW We Do Anything Means Everything,” which offers a philosophical framework for individual and organizational behavior in a world that is increasingly interconnected and interdependent.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Jost Capito | The Excitement of the Build | Headroom with Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 15 Nov 2022 18:39:34 +0000

Jost Capito is the current CEO of Williams Racing and their F1 Team Principal.

Jost Joined Williams Racing as their CEO in December 2020, and was appointed Team Principal in June of 2021 after the team had a hard run and was struggling to produce results.

He has come in with the mindset that "Second is just the first loser." in order to produce drive within his team.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Ali Abdelaziz | The Manager On The Mats | Headroom With Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 09:53:16 +0000

Dominance MMA Founder and President, Ali Abdelaziz, can be seen at almost every UFC event, representing many top athletes in MMA, and has been for the past couple of decades.

He has been representing Khabib Nurmagomedov up until Khabib's retirement and he has a plethora of contacts throughout the industry and has formed some amazing relationships throughout his journey.

If Ali isn’t with his family or negotiating contracts, you will find him on the mats rolling with his clients. Not often do you see a manager on the mats, but Ali isn’t your typical manager. He can relate to his clients on a different level, which has given Dominance a family-like culture.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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DJ Cassidy | Leaving Space for Improvisation | Headroom With Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 09:52:07 +0000

DJ Cassidy has been at the nexus of culture for over half his living years as the definitive deejay of music impresarios, entertainment moguls, fashion icons, nightlife innovators, and world leaders.

When President Barack Obama wanted a deejay for both his Inaugurations, his fiftieth birthday, and First Lady Michelle Obama’s fiftieth birthday at The White House, there's only one person he called.

When Oprah Winfrey opened her school on New Year's Eve in South Africa, there’s only one person she called.

When Jay Z and Beyonce hosted their wedding, there's only one person they called.

When Sean “Diddy” Combs celebrated his 50th birthday, there’s only one person he called.

When Jennifer Lopez celebrated her 50th birthday, there’s only one person she called.

And when Justin Timberlake, Usher, and Robin Thicke toured the world, there’s only one person they called.

There is a reason why DJ Cassidy is at the forefront of his field and he speaks to me today on the ways that he leaves space to create something unique.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Brad Woodgate | Building Two Multi-Billion Dollar Companies | HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 21:54:45 +0000

Brad Woodgate, Founder & CEO of No Sugar Co and Joyburst sits down with Dr. Rod Berger to discuss the 5:00 a.m. meeting that changed the trajectory for this no-nonsense, endlessly optimistic entrepreneur. After building two companies with meteoric growth Woodgate took a professional leap and landed on stage. Woodgate shares what family life was like growing up and what he learned about sharing a stage with 90s iconic music legend, Vanilla Ice.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Pete Hall | Chasing The Rabbit Down The Hole | Headroom With Dr. Rod Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 16:30:53 +0000

Pete Hall s the author of 10 books on education and leadership, and has recently published his Young Adult novel, Chasing The Show.

Chasing The Show follows the ups and downs of 18-year-old Anthony Sumner’s quest of becoming a professional athlete.

For young adult readers, it’s relatable. The dream, the relationships, the successes, the failures…all part of the messy reality of growing up. The fun, the awkwardness, the uncertainty…it’s all there.

For grown-up readers, the author brings his educational background to use by weaving in discussions and interactions with educators, coaches, parents, and Anthony’s peers to help him navigate his path, to embrace a Plan B, and to better understand himself.

As an added bonus, Chasing the Show comes with a link to free online discussion guides – one for young adult readers, one for not-so-young adult readers – to facilitate the communication, dialogue, and reflection needed to take the many lessons life teaches us and put them to use.

No matter what your entry point is, this story is sure to leave you entertained and equip you for the journey ahead.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Moussa Sene | The Impact of Thread in Senegal | Headroom With Dr. Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 21:37:33 +0000

In this special episode I speak with Moussa Sene, who has seen the impact that Thread has had on the surrounding area, acting as both an artist residency and socio-cultural center.

Moussa talks on the good that Thread has brought with it since its inception in 2013. It's creator had the idea that Art is everywhere, not just in Western, urban capitals.

Thread has created an independent culture where local and international artists can live and work in Sinthian, a rural village in Tambacounda, the southeastern region of Senegal.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Deepak Chopra | Balancing the Public Understanding | Headroom With Dr. Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 6 Oct 2022 16:50:25 +0000

Deepak Chopra is a very well known figure in the health and wellness space.

He is the founder of the Chopra Foundation, a non-profit charitable organization whose aim is to improve the health and well-being, cultivation of spiritual knowledge, expansion of the consciousness, and promoting world peace to all members of the human family.

He is a world renown pioneer in integrative medicine and personal transformation and Author of over 90 books, 23 of which are New York Times bestsellers, that have been translated into 43 languages. Time magazine has described him as "One of the top 100 heroes or icons of the last century."

The conversation today hits so hard and so differently.

Listen in as I speak to Deepak and he expands my mind, and yours.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Metta World Peace & Alex Bayer | Passion and Philanthropy Combined | Headroom With Dr. Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 5 Oct 2022 19:21:45 +0000

Today is a special one, I speak with both Metta World Peace and Alex Bayer.

Alex Bayer is the CEO of Genius Juice, a brand of organic drinks made with only the ingredients in their names.

The brand may sound familiar. That's because Alex managed to bag an incredible deal on The Shark Tank back in 2020, but eventually turned it down in order to crowd fund. Now Genius Juice can be found in Walmart, Target, Whole Foods, Natural Grocer's and many more.

Metta World Peace is an NBA champion, having played with the biggest teams since 1999 where he played for 2 and a half years with the Chicago Bulls, moving on to the likes of the Lakers, Knicks, and Kings to name a few. Metta World Peace joined Genius Juice as an investor and ambassador, and in turn, Genius Juice are sponsoring the XvsX sports basketball league, providing drinks to teams and guests alike.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Gustavo Gutierrez | The Financial Power Combining The US and Mexico | Headroom With Dr. Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 12:16:57 +0000

Gustavo Gutierrez is paving the way to combine the financial sectors in North America with his incredible new FinTech business, Broxel.

Broxel is changing the way that Mexico and The United States interacts, by allowing its users to have accounts in both Mexico and in the US within one app, with no fees from transferring money between the two, as if transferring between your own checking accounts.

His goal is to remove barriers, to allow new companies to enter the market and to take advantage of this tech revolution he forsees.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Guy Fieri | Forever In The Business Of Food | Headroom With Dr. Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 21:13:51 +0000

Guy Fieri talks to be today, beginning with his partnership with a previous guest, Sammy Hagar, in creating a gourmet and high quality Tequila business. Starting off with a Kool-Aid stand, and hustling sweets from his own little store as a child, Guy has always been in the business of food. From starting his TV career, to going into the alcohol business, if it is to do with a culinary experience then Guy has been there and been a part of it.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Charles Barkley | "I STILL Don't Want To Be Your Role Model" | HeadRoom With Dr. Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 21:16:20 +0000

I talk with Charles Barkley today, a former NBA player known as "The Round Mound of Rebound". Charles Barkley is on of the NBA's most dominant rebounders. In the 1986-87 series, Barkley led the season with the highest rebound average earning him his first NBA rebound title.

Barkley then went on to compete in two Olympic games for the USA in basketball, earning gold medals in both.

He retired in 2000 as the fourth player in NBA history to achieve 20,000 points, 10,000 rebounds, and 4,000 assists. Only 3 more players in the last 22 years have joined the elusive 20k/10k/4k club.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Sammy Hagar | Doing It Better Than Before | HeadRoom With Dr. Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 11 Aug 2022 15:00:38 +0000

A big thank you to Sammy Hagar for this interview.

Sammy Hagar is the second lead vocalist for the Rock band Van Halen for 11 years, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Van Halen. In this interview he talks about transitioning from Rock Star fame into making top shelf spirits starting with Cabo Wabo Tequila.

Hagar founded the Cabo Wabo tequila brand and restaurant chain, as well as Sammy's Beach Bar rum shortly after.

His current musical projects include being the lead singer of "Chickenfoot" and "Sammy Hagar and the Circle." Hagar also is the host of Rock & Roll Road Trip with Sammy Hagar on Mark Cuban's cable network AXS TV.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Natasha Graziano | Best Seller and 15 Million Followers... What Next? | HeadRoom With Dr. Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 9 Aug 2022 18:38:43 +0000

Natasha Graziano is the 'number 1 female motivational speaker under 40' as seen in Forbes Magazine, a top female mindset coach by Business Insider and named ‘a leading mindset coach and inspirational speaker’ by Kourtney Kardashian’s Poosh Magazine.

Today I speak with her about her incredible growth to 15 million followers on social media, her transformation from a broke, single mother to best-selling Author and motivational speaker, and her perception of what success REALLY means.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Divya Gokulnath | Her Perspective on Entrepreneurship | HeadRoom With Dr. Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 2 Aug 2022 15:04:59 +0000

In this episode I am joined by Divya Gokulnath, an Indian entrepreneur, an educator who co-founded BYJU'S, an educational technology company, and one half of the incredible power couple that is Byju Raveendran and Divya Gokulnath.

At first, the company offered in-person education to support school education, and in 2015, launched an online app with video lessons.

Divya has appeared in videos as a teacher and during the COVID-19 lockdown in India, Divya managed user experience, content, and brand marketing for BYJU'S.

She led BYJU's free access to its educational content so students could continue learning from home during the pandemic.

BYJUs reportedly added 13.5 million users in March and April 2020, for a total of 50 million, and reached 70 million students by September 2020, with 4.5 million subscribers.

Check out the story in Forbes that originated from my in-depth interview with Divya Gokulnath of BYJU'S.

To listen to more episodes, follow one of the links below:

Spotify

Apple Podcasts

Anchor

#entrepreneur #byju #headroompodcast

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Vanilla Ice | Mindset, Grind, Drive, And Shine | HeadRoom With Dr. Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 1 Aug 2022 18:17:39 +0000

Today I talk with Vanilla Ice, a rapper that has managed to stay relevant for the past 30 years.

Everyone knows the name somehow, and different generations react to the name in different ways, how about you?

Listen in to my conversation with Vanilla Ice to get a insight into his childhood and to hear his viewpoints on the rap industry, ego in artists, overuse of tech, and his view on the erasure of current pop culture.

Vanilla Ice, is an American rapper, actor, and television host. Ice's debut album "To The Extreme" became the fastest selling hip-hop album of all time, spending sixteen weeks and his explosive success has meant he has been credited with helping to diversify hip-hop by introducing it to a mainstream audience.

To listen to more episodes, follow one of the links below:

Spotify

Apple Podcasts

Anchor

#vanillaice #rap #headroompodcast

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Graham Bensinger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 18:47:14 +0000

Dr. Rod Berger speaks with Graham Bensinger, American journalist and entrepreneur known best for his eponymous show In Depth.

Graham epitomises entrepreneur although the label doesn't fit comfortably. Having found his path at the age of 14, he's just kept going and hasn't looked back. That doesn't mean its been easy. Recounting moments where it was do or die, he managed to maintain composure and steer his own ship through wild seas.

Dr. Berger dives into the story behind Graham, from how he formed a brand around himself, how he manages stress and learned to build resilience, and how, ultimately, he set his own path to success.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Mario Lopez

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 5 Jul 2022 16:18:04 +0000

HeadRoom with Mario Lopez

Check out the full interview with Mario Lopez that prompted my Forbes article on his involvement with Broxel.

"I'm a child of immigrants, my parents are from Mexico, and they instilled a solid work ethic. They were blue-collar folks, my dad worked for the city, and my mom worked for the phone company. I was a border town kid in Chula Vista. I used to see Tijuana from my yard, and I loved it. I wouldn't change a thing. It's like I had a foot in both worlds," says Lopez.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Jermaine Dupri

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 30 Jun 2022 15:44:00 +0000

Jermaine Dupri, Hall of Fame songwriter, Grammy award winner, and producer, knows that his 'next' will require even more effort if he is to succeed. Dupri has worked with the Mount Rushmore of hip-hop, R&B, and pop for over two decades, and a fateful conversation with the artist Babyface served as the ignition point for him to try something entirely different: JD's Vegan, a line of vegan desserts. We spoke at length about his company and how he approaches challenges whether he is in the boardroom or the recording booth.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Khabib Nurmagomedov

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 22:11:49 +0000

HeadRoom with Khabib Nurmagomedov

The Eagle and UFC Hall of Famer sits down with Dr. Rod Berger to discuss life outside of the octagon, starting his own league, and what home means to him.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Naveen Jain

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 15:33:55 +0000

HeadRoom with Naveen Jain - the backstory to my Entrepreneur Mag article.

Founder & CEO, Viome

Naveen is an intensely curious entrepreneur who is not afraid to take on the audacious ideas that will push humanity forward. He is the author of the award-winning book Moonshots: Creating a World of Abundance. His current moonshot adventures are Viome and Moon Express. As a serial entrepreneur, he previously founded InfoSpace, Intelius, and TalentWise.

Viome’s singular mission is to “make illness optional.” Viome has built an AI-driven platform that analyzes the interaction between food, our microbiome, and our human cells in order to develop precision nutrition to prevent and reverse chronic diseases.

In addition to his current moonshots, he is the Vice-Chairman of the Board at Singularity University, where he focuses on educating and inspiring leaders to utilize innovative technologies to address humanity’s greatest challenges. He is also on the Board of the XPRIZE Foundation, an organization that uses incentivized prize competition to push the limits of what’s possible — to change the world for the better.

Naveen has been the recipient of many honors for his entrepreneurial successes. These include: “Entrepreneur of the Year” by Ernst & Young, “Most Creative Person” by Fast Company, “Top 20 Entrepreneurs” & “Lifetime Achievement Award” for leadership by Red Herring. “Medal of Honor” by Ellis Island, and “Top 50 Philanthropists” by Town & Country Magazine.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Jenson Button

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 15:22:19 +0000

HeadRoom with Jenson Button

Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button MBE began his racing career on the karting track where he achieved instant success, Winning the British Super Prix in 1989, aged nine. The following year he made the step from karts to cars. He won the British Formula Ford championship, with nine wins for Haywood Racing, and triumphed in the prestigious Formula Ford Festival ahead of Dan Wheldon and Nicolas Kiesa. After such a successful transition to racing cars, he won the 1998 McLaren Autosport BRDC Young Driver of the Year Award. At 19 he entered the British Formula Three championship with Promatecme and won three races, finishing the year as the top rookie, third overall behind Marc Hynes and Luciano Burti. Jenson got his big break in Formula 1 in 2000 with Williams Racing. He became the youngest British driver to start an F1 race, aged just 20 years and 53 days, as he made his debut in Australia. That year, he produced some standout performances including finishing fourth at the German Grand Prix in Hockenheim, in addition to stunning the Formula One paddock by qualifying third for the Belgian Grand Prix. Jenson’s maiden Grand Prix victory came in 2006 as he won a remarkable Hungarian Grand Prix after starting 14th on the grid. Jenson arrived at McLaren as reigning world champion in 2010 and immediately got off to a great start with wins in Australia and China. He continued with McLaren Honda until the end of the 2017 season, where he played a critical part in developing and improving the technical package. In January 2021, Jenson joined Williams Racing as Brand Ambassador on a multi-year deal, 21 years after he first raced for the team. Jenson also launched JBXE to compete in the all-electric SUV off-road racing series Extreme E from the 2021 season.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Gibson Guitar's CEO James 'JC' Curleigh

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 9 Jun 2022 14:25:25 +0000

HeadRoom with Gibson Guitar's CEO James 'JC' Curleigh. JC takes us back to the early days of his career describing the moments that transformed iconic, global brands, and his life. An incredibly thoughtful leader who isn't afraid to have an opinion or pick up a guitar and play - a treat of an interview for music fans, entrepreneurs, and lovers of story.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Byju & Divya

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 6 Jun 2022 23:40:52 +0000

Last year I had the opportunity to spend time with Byju & Divya. I share their first names because they are becoming the leaders of global education as a power couple and leadership of the ever-growing BYJUs. I had readers ask to hear the story, so I decided to go down memory lane and read the original Forbes article for HeadRoom. I hope you enjoy it! -Rod

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Dr. Terence Tao the "Mozart of Math"

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 1 Jun 2022 16:38:04 +0000

A MacArthur Fellow and Fields Medal winner, Terence Tao, Ph.D., was studying university-level math by age 9. The Australian mathematician known as the most accomplished mathematician in the world received the Fields Medal in 2006 “for his contributions to partial differential equations, combinatorics, harmonic analysis, and additive number theory.” Tao now has his own MasterClass to teach the masses what it is like to be in his mind.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Irshad Manji

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 31 May 2022 17:25:08 +0000

HeadRoom with Irshad Manji - a behind-the-scenes conversation that spurred the recent Forbes article, Corporate First Responders Go Back To School

Irshad is the founder of the Moral Courage Network. A prize-winning leadership professor at New York University for many years, she now teaches with the Oxford Initiative for Global Ethics and Human Rights.

The recipient of Oprah's "Chutzpah Award" for boldness, Irshad is also a New York Times bestselling author. Her latest book is Don't Label Me: How to Do Diversity Without Inflaming the Culture Wars. (Fun fact: Chris Rock calls the book "genius." Another fun fact: Not everybody agrees with Chris Rock.)

Irshad lives in New York City.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Dr. Ellen Sigal

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 23 May 2022 20:16:22 +0000

HeadRoom with Ellen Sigal

Ellen V. Sigal, PhD, is Chairperson and Founder of Friends of Cancer Research (Friends). Friends is an advocacy organization based in Washington, DC that drives collaboration among partners from every healthcare sector to power advances in science, policy, and regulation that speed life-saving treatments to patients. For more than two decades, Friends has been instrumental in the creation and implementation of policies ensuring patients receive the best treatments in the fastest and safest way possible.

Dr. Sigal is Chair of the Board of Directors of the Reagan-Udall Foundation, a partnership designed to modernize medical product development, accelerate innovation and enhance product safety in collaboration with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. She serves on the Board of the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health, where she chairs its Public Private Partnerships Committee.

In 2010, Dr. Sigal was appointed to the inaugural Board of Governors of the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) as a representative of patients and health consumers and was recently reappointed to another six-year term.

Additionally, in 2016 Dr. Sigal was named to Vice President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot Blue Ribbon Panel, to the Parker Institute for Immunotherapy Advisory Group and joined the inaugural board of advisors for the George Washington University’s Milken Institute of Public Health.

She also holds leadership positions with a broad range of cancer advocacy, public policy organizations and academic health centers including: MD Anderson Cancer Center External Advisory Board, the Duke University Cancer Center Board of Overseers, and The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center Advisory Council.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Aaron Rasmussen

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 19 May 2022 20:26:36 +0000

HeadRoom with Aaron Rasmussen

Aaron Rasmussen is the co-founder of MasterClass and founder and CEO of Outlier.org. He is an entrepreneur, inventor, and game designer who has founded and led successful companies across the robotics, beverages, gaming, and education industries.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Gerry Sigal

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 20:49:28 +0000

Having grown up in a Brooklyn tenement, Gerry Sigal knows what it’s like to be disadvantaged and discounted. As a boy, he delivered groceries to earn money. He put himself through school, went to work for a New York construction company, and eventually settled in Washington, where he started his own successful business, Sigal Construction Corporation.

In 1995, he read in the paper that the bathrooms at many DC schools were unusable, and he was instantly returned to his roots. He contacted colleagues, clients, and friends, and Operation Spiffy John was born. By the time they were done, Sigal and company had rehabbed restrooms in 14 schools.

He also realized that while unemployment in the District was a chronic problem, public schools didn’t offer a vocational program to train kids for jobs in his own field. So he helped found DC Students Construction Trades Foundation and the public/private partnership that created the Academy of Construction & Design at Cardozo Education Campus. “Lots of young girls who didn’t think of this before are in the program,” Sigal says. “We’ve taught them to be carpenters, plumbers, electrical workers. Some have gone on to college.”

This year, he established an annual award for the outstanding Career and Technical Education student at the academy. The first winner, Treymane Chatman, was hired by Sigal’s company on graduating from Cardozo and became a registered apprentice after just 90 days.

Sigal also awards a scholarship to one District student to attend Parsons design school in New York. He’s on the National Building Museum board and helped rally support for constructing the BIG Maze that delighted museum visitors last summer. In addition, Sigal organized a relief fund to help families of 9/11 victims at the Pentagon. Appointed by President Clinton to the United States Holocaust Memorial Council, he’s now co-developer of the new Holocaust archival-research-and-scholarship building to be built in Prince George’s County.

“I’m from the streets of Brooklyn,” Sigal says. “I’m very fortunate. I believe people have to give back.”

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Alvy Ray Smith III | Exploring The World Of The Pixel | HeadRoom With Dr. Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Mon, 7 Mar 2022 15:07:51 +0000

HeadRoom with Alvy Ray Smith explores the early days of Pixar, the heated exchanges with Steve Jobs and the incredible lengths Smith and others took to bring us digital in ways previously unimagined.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Del Reid | Impact of the Bill's Mafia | HeadRoom With Dr. Berger

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 20:10:59 +0000

Del Reid, the co-founder of the famed Bills Mafia and founder of 26 Shirts, sits down with Dr. Rod Berger to talk about the origins of the phenomenon and impact he and others have made in and around Buffalo.

Bill's Mafia is the largest unofficial social movement around the Buffalo Bills team, even getting the team twitter to use the hashtag #billsmafia

26 Shirts is a social project that Del Reid has created in order to benefit families and charitable foundations in need. Their primary focus is needs associated with health/medical concerns, or unexpected family emergencies. 26 Shirts has raised over $1.4 million for charitable causes since launching.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Michelle Beadle

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 9 Feb 2022 20:09:54 +0000

Dr. Rod Berger speaks with Michelle Beadle, former host of popular ESPN programming such as SportsNation, about the transition to becoming an entrepreneur with her own podcast What Did I Miss? With Michelle Beadle.

Michelle recognizes the opportunities she's been presented in life, and when the Atlantic came enquiring about a joint venture podcast network, along with an associated homecoming to Texas, she seized it.

Dr. Berger investigates where Michelle's entrepreneurial spirit emerges from and how she navigates the anxiety that comes from doing it 'alone'. Ultimately, it's the passion Michelle has for sport and conversation and her desire to amplify those voices not being heard that drives her forward. The trust she holds within herself and her own abilities are what keeps her clear and focused on the path ahead.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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HeadRoom with Nick Swinmurn

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Wed, 9 Feb 2022 20:09:39 +0000

Dr. Rod Berger speaks with Nick Swinmurn, the founder of Zappos, about the relationship we all have with success.

Success means different things to different people. For Nick, however, its purely doing what he wants to do. True entrepreneurship, for Nick, comes from chasing the spark ignited from within your authentic self. Not money, nor notoriety, but meaning.

Dr. Berger uncovers the realities of being an entrepreneur where Nick has been forced to pivot his plans, trust his gut, and continue forward despite being beset by the pressures of expected, continual success. With his wealth of experience to pull on Nick explains how he is approaching his new venture Moons of Mars and how he is living his own advice to budding entrepreneurs by not getting too attached to the project and growing the confidence within, detached from output.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

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Welcome to HeadRoom

berger.rod@gmail.com (HeadRoom with Dr. Rod Berger) — Tue, 8 Feb 2022 15:07:54 +0000

Welcome to HeadRoom

HeadRoom explores deep into the minds of those on the frontiers of our society. Uncovering the 'why' behind acclaimed contributors forging their path through life and those new souls just stepping beyond the crowd.

Investigating the source of inspiration that drove those who have gone before us, Headroom hopes to inspire the 'next' in us. Join Dr. Rod Berger, PsyD, uncover the stories seldom told and add richness to the narratives within our own lives.

Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.