Expressions of Leadership

In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry sits down with Rob Grad, a renowned multidisciplinary artist whose path is marked by creativity, reinvention, and resilience. From his early days as a member of a rock band signed to RCA Records to his bold leap into visual art—sparked by a life-changing trip to Europe—Rob shares how following his intuition led to profound t...

In this episode, Michele Kawamoto Perry is joined by John Elliott, CEO of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, for a compelling conversation about leadership rooted in purpose, growth, and legacy. John shares how he's helped shape a resilient and values-driven culture across Chumash Enterprises — from navigating the pandemic to launching innovative sustainability efforts like a zero-waste-certi...

In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, we explore the inspiring journey of sisters Amy and Nancy Harrington, founders of The Passionistas Project. After successful careers in Hollywood, they shifted their focus to a new mission—amplifying women’s voices through storytelling, advocacy, and community-building. Amy and Nancy share how their experiences in the entertainment industry and their r...

In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry talks with Brent Green, founder of Green Art Landscape Designs. From gardening with his grandmother to crafting serene outdoor retreats for clients like Lionel Richie and Ozzy Osbourne, Brent shares how his early connection to nature blossomed into a career rooted in creativity, service, and leadership. Brent reflects on how...

Join host Michele Kawamoto Perry in a compelling conversation with attorney and international best-selling author Debra Koven, as they explore her transition from litigation to estate planning. Drawing from her book 100 Percent Mortality: 15 Stories of Excuses, Mistakes, and Misunderstandings in Estate Planning, Debra shares how her leadership philosophy—rooted in empathy, education, and authentic...

In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry welcomes Dean Arrindell, senior producer at Yahoo News, who brings nearly 30 years of experience in media production. Dean shares his journey — from aspiring to work at NBC to becoming a seasoned leader in the fast-paced world of news media. Dean reflects on the role of authentic leadership, the demands of producing live tel...

In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry speaks with Aaron Stryker, co-founder and executive director of Dharma Gates, a nonprofit making deep meditation retreats accessible to young adults. Aaron shares how his journey—from discovering Ashtanga Yoga at 18 to practicing at a Zen monastery—inspired him to create spaces for young people to explore meditation as a too...

Join us on this episode of Expressions of Leadership for a compelling conversation with renowned speaker and TEDx coach Mimi Donaldson. With over 20 years of experience, Mimi has captivated audiences from the Fortune 100 to the just plain fortunate. Now, she’s sharing her journey from acclaimed keynote speaker to sought-after speech coach. Host Michele Kawamoto Perry explores Mimi’s unique approac...

In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, Michele Kawamoto Perry speaks with Dr. Kate Hernandez, founder of Therapy In Motion, a mobile physical therapy practice redefining elderly care with personalized, at-home treatment, and co-founder of K.I.C.K. (Knowledge Is Cancer’s Kryptonite), a nonprofit dedicated to providing genetic counseling and testing for those impacted by cancer. Dr. Kate shar...

Join us on this episode of Expressions of Leadership as we delve into the inspiring journey of Adam Dempsey, a senior at Loyola High School in Los Angeles. Adam shares his passion for youth development and systemic reform, with a focus on the foster care system and legal advocacy. Discover how Adam's leadership style fosters dialogue, inclusivity, and a shared vision among peers and foster youth....

In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, two-time Emmy Award-nominated producer Sam Sokolow—best known for his work on the acclaimed series Genius—shares his insights on leadership, creativity, and community-building in the film industry. He explores the core principles that guide his approach, including being solution-oriented, honest, and a good listener. Sam also reflects on his journey fr...

Join us for an inspiring episode of Expressions of Leadership as Christopher Keevil, founder of Wellspring Consulting, shares his journey from the Boston Consulting Group to building Wellspring Consulting, a mission-driven firm dedicated to helping nonprofits address strategic challenges and achieve results. He opens up about authentic leadership, creating a thriving organization, and how Zen prin...

In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, entrepreneur Shayla Height shares how authenticity, humor, and courage shape her leadership and creative ventures. She discusses the inspiration behind WTF Mama, her bold comic series celebrating outspoken women, and how her streetwear brand Full Bloom Savage redefines menopause with style and confidence. Tune in for an engaging conversation on leaders...

In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, we speak with Debra Perry Piscioni and Josh Drean, cofounders of Work3 Institute and authors of the upcoming book Employment is Dead: How Disruptive Technologies Are Revolutionizing the Way We Work. Together, we explore the future of work, the power of emerging technologies like AI and Web3 and how embracing empathy and innovation can transform workpla...

In today's episode, we sit down with celebrity chef Katie Chin, an award-winning cookbook author and culinary ambassador. She's also an inspiring leader who has made appearances on platforms like The Today Show and even at the White House. Katie brings her unique perspective on leadership, influenced by her rich experience in corporate roles and her journey in the culinary world. From being an exe...