Advertise on podcast: HOW Conversations

What does it take to lead with purpose when the stakes are high—and across very different worlds?  In this HOW Conversation, Dana Born sits down with Bob McDonald, former Chairman, President, and CEO of Procter & Gamble and former Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, to explore the principles that have guided his leadership across the military, business, and public service.  Bob shares why values can serve as a compass in a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous world; how leaders can build cultures of trust through their everyday behaviors; and why the “how” of achieving results matters just as much as the results themselves.  Drawing on lessons from his time at P&G, the VA, and in the U.S. Army, Bob also discusses servant leadership, leading through pressure and uncertainty, developing the next generation of leaders, and the importance of remaining a lifelong student of leadership.  At the heart of the conversation is a simple but powerful idea: leadership is not just about what you accomplish, but how you accomplish it.  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/

What does it take to lead when everything around you is changing?  In this HOW Conversation, former 7-Eleven and Blockbuster CEO James Keyes joins HOW Fellow Dana Born to explore why great leadership isn't about avoiding disruption—it's about responding to it with clarity, confidence, and purpose.  Drawing on a remarkable journey from childhood adversity to leading global brands, Jim shares the lessons that shaped his leadership philosophy, including why "change equals opportunity," how resilience is built, and why education may be the greatest investment we can make in humanity's future.  Whether you're leading a team, navigating uncertainty, or preparing for what's next, this conversation offers practical insights for leading with courage, purpose, and moral clarity.  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/

In moments of uncertainty, leadership is revealed.  Former U.S. Sec Def Mark Esper joins Dov Seidman for a conversation about the principles that guide leaders through crisis, complexity, and change. Reflecting on his experiences leading one of the world's largest institutions during the pandemic and social unrest, Esper shares lessons on integrity, trust, resilience, and service. Together, they explore how leaders can remain faithful to their values when it's inconvenient, empower others through trust and accountability, and create cultures where character scales beyond the individual. This is a conversation about what endures when circumstances are constantly changing—and why moral leadership remains essential to building a future where we rise together.  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/

What does moral leadership look like across generations of change?  In our latest HOW Conversation, HOW Fellow Dana Born sits down with David Kohler, Chair and CEO of Kohler Co., to explore what it takes to lead with integrity, humility, and purpose through moments of disruption, uncertainty, and transformation.  From his early days working on the factory floor and in the foundry to leading one of the world’s most recognized global brands, David reflects on the experiences, mentors, and values that shaped his leadership journey. Together, they discuss resilience, stewardship, innovation, and the responsibility leaders have to build organizations that endure.  As Kohler Co. marks more than 150 years of history, this conversation offers a powerful look at leadership rooted not only in performance—but in character.   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/

In this HOW Conversation, Elise Awwad, President and CEO of DeVry University, shares a deeply personal and practical perspective on moral leadership in a rapidly changing world. From her early lessons shaped by her father, to leading a nearly century-old institution through technological disruption, Awwad explores how values must anchor leadership today.  Awwad offers a clear framework for ethical AI—grounded in purpose, governance, and human oversight—and makes a compelling case for rebuilding trust through transparency, consistency, and measurable impact. She also reflects on non-linear career paths, the importance of curiosity with intention, and why shared human values continue to be a powerful source of hope.  This conversation is a timely exploration of how leaders can stay grounded in purpose while adapting to profound change—and why moral leadership has never mattered 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 HOW Institute channels philosophical reasoning to address modern problems. Today, HOW we do what we do matters more than ever - in ways it never has before.  Learn more at https://thehowinstitute.org/

What does it take to lead with principle in a system defined by pressure, trade-offs, and competing interests?  In this HOW Conversation, HOW founder Dov Seidman sits down with David Gelles, best-selling author and climate reporter for The New York Times, to explore the central paradox of modern capitalism: how businesses can be both profitable and purposeful—without ever fully resolving the tension between the two.  Drawing from Gelles’ latest book The Dirtbag Billionaire, the conversation examines the story of Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia—a company built on contradictions: an anti-capitalist running a successful apparel brand striving to protect the very environment it impacts.  Together, they unpack the idea of “compound interest of values”, how leaders can center humanity, the urgent leadership questions emerging in the age of AI disruption, and 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/

What does moral leadership look like in practice—across politics, diplomacy, business, and times of crisis?  In this episode of HOW Conversations, Dana Born sits down with Ambassador Jon Huntsman to explore the deeper “how” of leadership: trust, humility, service, and clarity in chaos.  Drawing from his experience as Governor of Utah, U.S. Ambassador to Singapore, China, and Russia, and now Vice Chair and President of Strategic Growth at Mastercard, Huntsman reflects on:  Why trust is the foundation of leadership—and what it really means to earn it  The difference between transactional power and long-term stewardship  How service builds humility and shapes character  Leading through crisis by bringing clarity to chaos  Why hope still thrives—in communities, cultures, and the next generation  From lessons learned in diplomacy and corporate leadership to deeply personal reflections on legacy, obituaries, and what truly matters, this conversation is a powerful reminder that how we lead matters as much as what we achieve.  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/

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/