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In this HOW Conversation, Dov Seidman sits down with Devika Bulchandani—COO of WPP, former CEO of Ogilvy, award-winning industry leader, and HOW Institute board member—for a candid and deeply human exploration of leadership in a world defined by speed, AI, and profound tension.  Devika reflects on the values forged early in her life, her belief that humanity will always win, and the subtle but powerful shift from leading people to having people choose to follow you. She opens up about:  -Building trust by giving it first  -Why real leadership happens in micro-moments  -Navigating the conflict between efficiency and effectiveness  -The role of truth in creating movements that lead to lasting change  -How hope is not only a strategy but an imperative  This conversation is a masterclass in moral leadership, vulnerability, and what it looks like to stay human while leading at the highest levels.  READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

How do leaders navigate moments of profound loss, transformation, and hope? In this HOW Conversation, Dana Born sits down with Dr. Beth Hillman – Air Force veteran, legal scholar, former president of Mills College, and now President & CEO of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Together, they explore lessons in moral courage, civic responsibility, and the power of education to shape not only informed citizens, but moral ones.  Dr. Hillman shares her journey across the military, academia, and nonprofit leadership, offering insights on listening, pausing under pressure, and meeting people where they are. From stewarding memory at one of America’s most sacred sites to guiding institutions through change, this conversation highlights how values-driven leadership can inspire resilience and hope for the future.  READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive Interview from Aug 20, 2025] What does it take to build one of the largest women-founded and women-owned construction companies in the United States—and lead with purpose through challenges, pivots, and loss? In this HOW Conversation, Dana Born sits down with Linda Rabbitt, Founder of Rand Construction, to explore her journey of resilience, mentorship, and moral leadership. From lessons learned from her father to navigating setbacks, grief, and reinvention, Linda shares how she has stayed true to her values while paving the way for others. ✨ Topics include: Turning setbacks into opportunities for growthThe power of resilience, relationships, reputation, and resultsMentorship and sponsorship as keys to elevating women leadersLeading with humility, humanity, and hope in difficult timesREADY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive interview from Jul 17, 2025] What does it mean to lead with moral clarity when the stakes are high and the pressure is on? In this episode of HOW Conversations, Dana Born sits down with Chip Brewer, President & CEO of Topgolf Callaway Brands, for a compelling discussion on leadership grounded in values, integrity, and bold decision-making. From pausing before acting in moments of controversy, to building cultures that prioritize innovation and character, Chip shares powerful stories from his leadership journey — including the moment he walked away from a product launch, the lessons golf teaches us about life and leadership, and why moral leadership is both a mindset and a muscle. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in purpose-driven leadership, ethical decision-making, and creating cultures rooted in trust and transformation. READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive Interview from Jun 17, 2025] In this powerful HOW Conversation, HOW founder Dov Seidman sits down with Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action and author of Fired Up, to explore how an ordinary moment turned into a national movement. Shannon shares how moral courage, storytelling, and a refusal to quit helped build the nation’s largest grassroots group fighting gun violence.  They discuss:  How Shannon turned outrage into organized action after Sandy Hook Lessons on scaling a movement from passion to institution Why “losing forward” is key to long-term change The practice of pausing, humility, and handing over power Her new book Fired Up – part manifesto, part roadmap for reigniting purpose Whether you’re an activist, leader, or someone seeking your next bold step, this conversation is for you.  READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive Interview from May 28, 2025] What does it mean to lead with integrity when the whole world is watching?  In this inspiring HOW Conversation, Chief Master Sergeant Jo Bass—the first woman and Asian American to hold the top enlisted role in the U.S. Air Force—opens up about her journey, the evolution of purpose, and what it really takes to lead with moral courage.  From humble beginnings and a Honda Civic to guiding over 600,000 service members, Chief Bass shares hard-earned wisdom on:  Finding purpose through service Building moral muscle in a divided world Staying grounded in values when making tough decisions Creating a culture of resilience and well-being This episode is packed with honesty, heart, and hard truths—and it’s a must-listen for anyone committed to leading with humanity.  READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive Interview from May 13, 2025] In this thoughtful and inspiring conversation, Dr. Nitin Nohria, 10th Dean of Harvard Business School, opens up to Dov Seidman about the profound life experiences and inner shifts that shaped his views on leadership, trust, and power. From his early journey as an immigrant to his influential role guiding one of the world’s top business schools, Dr. Nohria reflects on:  ✔️ Learning humility through failure  ✔️ The impact of mentorship and teaching  ✔️ What it truly means to lead with trust  ✔️ How power reveals character  ✔️ Why leaders must embrace complexity and humanity  He also shares insights on ego, identity, and the importance of showing up for others—not just as professionals, but as people.  Whether you're an emerging leader, seasoned executive, or curious learner, this interview offers rich wisdom on how small acts of humility and care can shape lasting impact. READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive Interview from Apr 24, 2025] How do we build organizations for the future?  What does it take to build organizations—and a society—that are truly fit for the future? In this powerful conversation, Zia Khan, Chief Innovation Officer at the Rockefeller Foundation, shares how innovation grounded in moral leadership can transform not only the social sector, but how we all work together to create real, enduring impact.  Speaking with HOW Founder Dov Seidman, Zia reflects on his journey from engineering to systems thinking, and why today’s most meaningful breakthroughs demand more than strategy—they demand trust, courage, and deep collaboration.  🎯 Highlights include:  Rethinking organizational design for trust and values How innovation isn’t about lone geniuses, but collective effort Lessons from global initiatives, from food security to citizen assemblies Why community, not ego, fuels real change What younger generations are teaching us about reinvention This isn’t just a talk about innovation—it’s about changing how we go about everything. If you care about purpose, impact, or the future of leadership, this is a must-listen.  READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive Interview from Apr 8, 2025] In this inspiring conversation, legendary arts leader Deborah Borda—former President of the New York Philharmonic and LA Phil—shares hard-won insights on what it means to lead with purpose, innovation, and integrity in the world of classical music. From redefining what an orchestra can be, to championing diversity and education, Deborah reveals how she navigated some of the most prestigious cultural institutions with bold vision, moral leadership and deep humanity.  📌 Topics include:  Her unconventional leadership journey Building trust and collaboration within an organization Making space for underrepresented voices The role of risk and reinvention in leadership Advice for emerging leaders  Whether you're a music lover or aspiring changemaker, this interview is full of wisdom and heart.  READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive Interview from Jun 24, 2024] Dr. Wayne Frederick is known as a decorated surgeon and former university president, but now showcases his talent for storytelling. Blending beautiful memories of growing up in Trinidad with navigating the complex world of leadership, Dr. Frederick has a flair for using past experiences to get better each day. Dr. Frederick suggests, “Every day when you get home, you should ask yourself two questions. What did I do today and how well did I do it? How much better can I do tomorrow? And the second question should be, what didn't I do today that I should be sure to do tomorrow?”  This week on HOW Conversations, Dr. Frederick spoke with Dana Born, Distinguished Fellow at The HOW Institute, about integrating formal authority with moral authority, freedom to bring your authentic self to the workplace, and so much more.   READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive interview from May 30, 2024] Hubert Joly has worn many hats throughout his life: CEO, author, educator. But no single hat defines his soul. He explains, “I was not the CEO of Best Buy. I had that job, but that was not who I was. Clarity around our purpose in life, I think that's truly foundational.”  Former CEO of electronic retailer Best Buy and current senior lecturer at Harvard Business School, Hubert Joly has decades of experience leading people and has declared that we need to unleash human magic. “The purpose of business is to contribute to the common good. It's the idea that you place people at the center because people are not a resource. I hate the words, human resources. People are the source. They're the inspiration and also the destination.”  This week on HOW Conversations, Hubert speaks with HOW founder and chairman Dov Seidman about placing actions behind words, elevating those around us, and leading with a defined sense of purpose. Watch the full conversation now.  Learn more about Hubert’s book The Heart of Business here: https://www.hubertjoly.org/book/   READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive Interview from Apr 25, 2024] “I have a lack of fear of change,” says Dr. Ann Kirschner, a fearless leader known for her pursuit of new challenges and new opportunities. Dr. Kirschner, who is currently the interim president of Hunter College, follows the thread of reinvention, and it’s evident from her diverse background. She’s involved in classrooms and boardrooms, a pioneer in digital technology, and authored Sala’s Gift: My Mother’s Holocaust Story – based off letters her mother received while in Nazi labor camps.  This week on HOW Conversations, Dr. Kirschner spoke with Dana Born, Distinguished Fellow at The HOW Institute, about another thread she follows: public education. “Public education changes people’s lives," she says. Growing up in Jackson Heights, Queens, “going to New York City public schools, they were not only educating me, they were educating the whole family.” Dr. Kirschner also speaks on the need for rebuilding trust in higher education and how getting out of your own experience can help build moral muscle. Check out Sala's Gift here: https://www.simonandschuster.com/book...  READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive Interview from Mar 27, 2024] Tom Monahan has always been curious. In childhood exploring his grandparents’ carnival (still in the family today), he’d pepper each guest with questions about the rides and games. “If you ask people, they’ll tell you stuff.” Mr. Monahan, who was recently tapped as CEO of the executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles, keeps his inquisitive nature front and center, always ready to be inspired by a friendly conversation.    This week on HOW Conversations, Mr. Monahan spoke with Dana Born, Distinguished Fellow at The HOW Institute, about fueling that curiosity and embracing humility. “Anyone who’s lucky enough to lead people and have had professional success, who doesn’t work the word “luck” into their first twenty words of their story has some soul-searching to do.”   Even after years of success across various sectors, Mr. Monahan has a tenacious passion for developing and impacting emerging leaders. READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive Interview from Jan 18, 2024] Anthony Foxx knows the power of someone believing in you. “Like many kids I needed to hear, and heard often, that there was something special about me. And I started to believe that.” Mr. Foxx is currently a Professor of the Practice of Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School. Before that, he served as the 54th Mayor of the city of Charlotte and was the city’s youngest mayor in history. He then moved on to serve as the 17th U.S. Secretary of Transportation under the Obama administration.   This week on HOW Conversations, Mr. Foxx spoke with Dana Born, Distinguished Fellow at The HOW Institute, about creating a wave of empowering those around you. “If you are someone who works with me, you’re also a leader.”   READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/   

[Archive Interview from Oct 25, 2023] Leadership Means Doing the Hard Work of Building Up Institutions Eboo Patel knows leadership is hard work, “Anybody who runs a YMCA, anybody who is a principal of a school, anybody who runs an athletic team, you know that what you have to do is show up everyday and move a half inch forward. That is what building a society looks like.”  Dr. Patel is the Founder and President of Interfaith America, a unique organization that leverages religious diversity to solve societal challenges. On this episode of HOW Conversations, Dr. Patel spoke with Dana Born, Distinguished Fellow at The HOW Institute, about why diversity is essential to a healthy democracy, how leaders need to build up institutions and why he thinks the United States is more like a pot-luck dinner, not a melting pot, “You want people to bring their best dish inspired by their identity and you want those dishes to mix and combine in interesting, creative and delicious ways, and in a space where people can have enriching conversations.”  B sure to check out Eboo Patel’s new book, We Need to Build, Field Notes for Diverse Democracy.  READY TO START YOUR MORAL LEADERSHIP JOURNEY? Moral leadership is more imperative today than ever before. The HOW Institute for Society was founded on the belief that those in positions of formal authority should also have moral authority.  We are creating the tools leaders need to make principled, ethical and values-based decisions.  We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a world rooted in deep human values and trust in our social fabric. The Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever and in ways it never has before.   Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/