The Space In Between Podcast

In this episode of The Space In Between , Leigh explores the concept of grievance —a mix of resentment and unmet expectations that, when left unresolved, erodes trust and connection. Drawing on sobering data from the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, she highlights how widespread grievance is fueling distrust, polarization, and fragmentation across society. Through personal stories and leadership less...

The U.S. higher education sector is undergoing profound transformation — and not always by choice. At the intersection of political ideology, funding cuts, and rapidly shifting technologies, colleges and universities find themselves caught in a storm of scrutiny, resentment, and reinvention. From heated debates over diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to questions about the value of degrees and...

The Space in Between isn’t about finding the middle — it’s about having the courage to stand in the tension between opposing views, where real growth and innovation happen. In a world that often pressures us to pick a side, this podcast explores what it means to stay present, curious, and open in the face of complexity. It’s a space that invites deep listening, humility, and the willingness to hol...

In this episode, host Leigh Morgan welcomes Matt McIlwain —managing director at Madrona Venture Group , respected civic leader in Seattle, and fellow board member at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center —for a thoughtful and deeply human conversation. Together, they explore questions at the intersection of tax policy, constructive dialogue, and the responsibilities we carry as citizens navigating a polari...

On today’s episode, I explore what it means to seek out fellow seekers in a time of deep division. Seekers are people who are curious, open-minded, and committed to learning—by instinct and by choice. If you’re listening to this podcast, chances are you’re a seeker too. I share a personal story about an unexpected and meaningful connection with my March 19th podcast guest, Lemon Price. Lemon is a...

AI technologies promise to revolutionize societies, economies, and interpersonal connections by affecting how organizations and individuals interact. In this episode, host Leigh Morgan leads a compelling conversation with noted AI & tech investor Heather Redman on these critical topics. Heather gives an insightful overview of the current state of AI and its implications for business, society,...

In an age where artificial intelligence is significantly transforming industries and our daily lives, the role of leadership in organizations is undergoing rapid transformation. In this episode of The Space In Between Podcast, host Leigh Morgan welcomes Christie Smith , a noted thought leader in leadership and organizational performance, to discuss the need for a new paradigm in leadership. Christ...

In this episode, I reflect on a few powerful moments I’ve experienced as host of The Space In Between . I also explore a core theme from Season I: how self-awareness is essential for both taking principled stands on the issues we care about and finding ways to bridge divides. A key concept is understanding our personal 'boiling points'—those moments when we’re so emotionally charged that...

Today's episode is an exploration of empowerment, leadership, and the transformative power of intentionality in today’s hyper polarized world. Leigh's guest today is a truly inspirational leader - the incomparable Shelmina Abji .  Shelmina’s journey from humble beginnings in Tanzania to becoming a top executive at IBM serves as a beacon for aspiring leaders everywhere, as does her best-s...

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In a world increasingly divided by political and social ideologies, it's crucial to explore topics that might seem polarizing but are deeply impactful.  This week, we continue dialogue on a topic adjacent to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI): ‘Wokeness’.  Join host Leigh Morgan delves into these complex themes with guest Sally Kohn , former FOX News contributo r, media coach, TED speaker...

In light of recent controversy about the Dept. of Defense leaders & other cabinet members conducting classified war planning in an unsecure text app #SignalGate - I'm reposting a powerful episode of The Space In Between Podcast  that showcases the very best of our armed forces and integrity-based leadership. I speak with retired Major Hartleigh Caine about her experience in the Army and w...

In this really interesting episode of "The Space In Between Podcast", host Leigh Morgan sat down with Sandy Mollett, a distinguished thought leader in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Mollett, known for her extensive experience as a corporate executive and bridge builder across divides, shares her insights into the complex landscape of DEI in today’s often polarized world. Leigh a...

In this episode of The Space In Between podcast, host Leigh Morgan welcomes Lemon Price—an incredibly popular podcaster, entrepreneur, and social media influencer from southeast Georgia—to explore her perspectives on Trump and the MAGA movement. Lemon shares her faith-inspired journey from supporting Obama in two elections to voting for Trump in 2016 and 2024. She reflects on her commitment to wom...

In a world marked by increasing polarization and fragmentation, effective leadership demands the ability to navigate complexity, make informed decisions, and maintain perspective amidst relentless change and pressure. How can leaders rise to the occasion, stay grounded, and drive performance? My guest, Kaye Foster, offers deep insights and wisdom on this very topic. As one of the corporate sector’...

Today's episode is epic! Join guest Dr. Lakshmi Karan, alongside her fellow visionaries at LunArc, is pioneering a movement that reframes our approach to space travel. Their goal is to ensure that humanity's journey to the moon transcends mere technological achievement, becoming instead an exercise in cooperation, humility, and democratic participation. We get 'the basics' from...

In the latest episode of The Space in Between Podcast, host Leigh Morgan delves into the controversial topics of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks and the evolving role of businesses in society. Joined by guest Allison Taylor , a professor of practice at NYU Stern School of Business and an expert in business ethics, the conversation uncovers insightful perspectives on ESG incl...

In an era marked by heightened political polarization, how do we foster constructive dialogue and bipartisan collaboration? This question is at the heart of this episode of the "Space In Between" podcast, hosted by Leigh Morgan, where former Wisconsin Republican State Senator Joan Ballweg shares her experiences and insights after decades as an elected official. Known for being a pragmati...

In today’s episode, we delve into the remarkable and inspiring stories of two sisters, Farishta and Hakima Afzaly, who left Taliban-controlled Afghanistan in search of a better life. They are now powerful advocates for women's rights & they have a lot to say about the situation in their home country.  We learn about the harsh reality for women in Afghanistan, and especially for Shia Hazar...

If there is one theme that animates across all #TheSpaceInBetween podcasts, it is the importance of storytelling for bridging divides and as a critical tool for effective leadership. In today's chaotic world, steady, high integrity leadership is of utmost importance. In this episode, we explore how leaders can harness storytelling to be their most powerful selves - and how to leverage AI tool...

In today’s socio-political climate, spaces for open dialogue and constructive conversations are both rare and essential. In this episode of The Space In-Between podcast, I had the privilege of hosting Ashani O’Mard to discuss the affordable housing crisis in America. Drawing from her personal experiences and professional expertise as a national leader in housing, Ashani explains the key factors dr...

Today’s episode dives into the dynamic world of data and innovation and leadership lessons in bridging divides across sectors. Our guest, Ann Mei Chang , brings shares insights from her interesting career which spans Google, the U.S. State Department, US Agency for International Development (USAID), and her current role as CEO of Candid . We discuss workplace cultures, the challenges of leading ch...

Today’s podcast explores our mental health from a public health perspective, and how, in a post-COVID world, we can avoid reaching polarizing ‘boiling points’ and reduce the experience of isolation and fragmentation across communities.  Host Leigh Morgan explores this topic in-depth with a an internationally recognized global leader and expert, Dr. Dani Fallin , who is Dean of the Rollins School o...

In the increasingly polarized discourse on immigration, it is essential to create spaces where nuanced and insightful conversations can thrive. In this episode, we delve into the complex realities of immigration in the U.S. with Maggie Mitchell Salem, the Executive Director of IRIS and a leading expert in the field. We explore the misconceptions, realities, challenges, opportunities, and the evolv...

This podcast features Mary S. Moore, a global leader in the culinary and housewares sector. Moore and host Leigh Morgan explore food's role as an expression of cultural heritage and a conduit for creating connections across diverse communities. Through personal stories and insights, Moore illustrates how shared culinary experiences can build understanding in our often-divided world. The conve...