Political & National Issues
News & Media
News & Media:
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalists
Husband-and-wife duo Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn were the first married couple to win a Pulitzer in journalism and have written a series of best-selling books together as well as appeared in television documentaries of their books.
Former White House Senior Advisor
Rising from the depths of extreme poverty, Omarosa was the only African American senior advisor to the 45th President of the US Donald Trump and is one of the most dynamic keynotes in the speaking world today.
Pulitzer Prize winners Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein join together on the speaking stage to point out parallels from our past and provide unparalleled insights for our future—pulling back the curtain on Washington as only Woodward and Bernstein can.
CEO of Rappler & 2021 Nobel Peace Prize Winner
Maria Ressa is the co-founder and CEO of Rappler.com, an online news organization in the Philippines. Maria’s courage and work on disinformation and ‘fake news’ culminated in being awarded the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize.
Founder of NeoLuddite & Bestselling Author
Speaker Peter Singer is director of the 21st-Century Defense Initiative at the Brookings Institution and the youngest senior fellow in the organization's 90-year history.
Renowned Broadcaster, Author & Host, On Shifting Ground, NPR Veteran
Journalist and author Ray Suarez hosts On Shifting Ground, a radio program syndicated on NPR and PRX stations across the U.S.
Award-Winning Reporter, Former Physician & Author
Dr. Elisabeth Rosenthal is the editor-in-chief of Kaiser Health News and the author of An American Sickness , a shocking investigation into America's healthcare system.
Editor-in-Chief, The Cut
One of the nation’s rare Black female editors-in-chief and a 2020 Forbes 30 under 30 honoree, The Cut’s Lindsay Peoples shares an invaluable view of women’s empowerment, marketing to GenZ and elevating your brand in the era of BLM.
Author, Podcaster & TV Host
Touré is a host and Creative Director at TheGrio. He is a TV host, a podcaster, and the author of eight books including The Ivy League Counterfeiter and the Prince oral history Nothing Compares 2 U.
CNN Political Analyst & Anchor for theGrio
Natasha S. Alford an award-winning journalist, host and media executive driven by the
power of storytelling to inspire and change people’s lives.
TIME Women of the Year 2023, Journalist, Activist & Author
Masih Alinejad is an Iranian-American journalist and women’s rights activist who gained worldwide attention when she removed her veil, or hijab, and posted a photo on her Facebook page standing proudly with her hair blowing in the wind.
Bridging the Divide
Honest, candid, reflective, and intelligent conversation from two forward-looking professionals. From the stories behind the headlines, to the ones you’ve never heard of, Maska and Farah will deliver the serious and light-hearted alike, with class.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist, Best-Selling Author & Political Analyst
Few journalists in America’s history have had the impact on history and their craft as Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter Carl Bernstein. Drawing parallels between the past and the events of today, Bernstein provides invaluable context for our tumultuous times.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist
Rick Bragg is the author of two best-selling books, All Over but the Shoutin' and Ava's Man. He joined The New York Times in 1994 and has covered events like the Oklahoma City bombing.
Author & Professor
Corey Brettschneider has studied and taught politics and constitutional law for nearly all of his adult life. Corey has written and taught in Brown's political science department and his focus has been on issues central to our democracy.
Youngest Ever New York Times Opinion Writer & Host of ASK VIV Podcast
Bianca Vivion Brooks is a writer, artist, and designer from East Atlanta, Georgia. Born in Los Angeles and later raised between Atlanta and Oakland, Brooks was marked from an early age as an imaginative storyteller and critical thinker.
Former US Senator & Ambassador
Known as a builder of political bridges with deep expertise in both the public and private sector, Ambassador Scott Brown speaks from more than 30 years of experience as a diplomat, senator, military officer, trade negotiator and bestselling author.
Co-Founder of Black Voters Matter
LaTosha Brown is an award-winning visionary thought leader, institution builder, Cultural Activist and Artist, and Connector. She is a nationally recognized, “go-to” expert in Black Voting Rights and Voter Suppression.
Energy Journalist & Author
One of America's foremost energy journalists, Robert Bryce exposes common misconceptions about green energy. His writing has established him as an incisive authority on the world's energy future.
Principal of The Washington Update
A dynamic and insightful author, Jeff Bush is known for his unique ability to translate difficult and confusing information coming out of Washington D.C. into winning growth strategies for business owners.
New York Times Bestselling Author & Political Analyst
Clay Cane is an award-winning journalist, radio host, political analyst and a New York Times bestselling author. The Grift, an instant New York Times bestseller, was released in January 2024.
Co-Author, Notorious RBG & Senior Correspondent, New York Magazine
Irin Carmon is co-author of the New York Times bestseller Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and a senior correspondent at New York magazine.
Boston Globe Columnist & Author
James Carroll began his writing career as a priest but left the Order to pursue his craft full time. He has published nine books and writes for The Boston Globe.
Urban Revitalization Strategist
Named among the 100 Most Creative People in Business by Fast Company, speaker Majora Carter hosts the Peabody Award-winning public radio series "The Promised Land."
MLB’s First Latina PA Announcer
Marysol Castro has spent the last two decades challenging the TV news status quo as a journalist and host. In an unusual turn of events, Castro made history by becoming the first Public Address Announcer for the New York Mets.
Emmy Award-Winning Co-Anchor of ABC’s Nightline
One of the most prominent Asian Americans in broadcast news, Juju Chang is the Emmy Award-winning co-anchor of ABC News Nightline and a regular contributor to Good Morning America and 20/20.
Founder, ZipCar & GoLoco
Speaker Robin Chase is the founder of ZipCar, the largest car-sharing company in the world, and GoLoco, an online ride-sharing community that helps people share car trips.
Co-Founder of Blackboard & CEO of PrecisionHawk
Michael Chasen is an entrepreneur who is focused in the technology, education, and Social Local Mobile (SoLoMo) space.
Conservative Political Commentator
Author of Out of the Barrio: Toward a New Politics of Hispanic Assimilation, speaker Linda Chavez has served as chairman of the National Commission on Migrant Education.
Author, Journalist, & Socio-Political Analyst
Award-winning multimedia journalist and former host of NPR's "News and Notes," speaker Farai Chideya founded PopandPolitics.com, an online journal for young Americans.
2008 United States Vice-Presidential Candidate
Rosa Alicia Clemente is an award-winning organizer, speaker, political commentator, producer, independent journalist, scholar-activist and former vice presidential candidate.
Washington Correspondent for the Daily Beast
As a former White House correspondent, speaker Eleanor Clift writes on the Washington power structure and the influence of women in politics, among other topics.
Journalist & Activist
In addition to having built an illustrious journalistic career, George Clooney's father, speaker Nick Clooney, shares his son's dedication to promoting human rights.
CNN Senior Medical Correspondent & Author
Elizabeth Cohen is senior medical correspondent for CNN's Health, Medical and Wellness unit, covering breaking medical news and health consumer reporting on CNN and CNN.com.
Executive Director of The Center of Bioterrorism
Speaker Neal Cohen has overseen and diligently responded to the West Nile virus outbreak, the consequences of the World Trade Center tragedy, and the outbreaks of anthrax.
"The Ethicist"
Emmy Award-winning Randy Cohen pens "The Ethicist," a weekly column for The New York Times Magazine, which answers readers' ethical questions spanning all topics.
Award Winning-Journalist & Author
From The Wall Street Journal to The New York Times, speaker Roger Cohen has distinguished himself as one of the most hard-hitting international reporters today.
Senior Editor-at-Large, Fortune Magazine
Geoff Colvin is an award-winning thinker, author, broadcaster, and speaker on today's most significant trends in business. As Fortune's Senior Editor-at-Large, he is one of America's most respected commentators.
Anchor, Anderson Cooper 360°
As host of CNN's Anderson Cooper 360°, speaker Anderson Cooper presents the news in an unconventional and wide-ranging format.
Washington Bureau Chief, Mother Jones Magazine
David Corn is a Fox News Channel contributor and the Washington bureau chief for Mother Jones magazine. He writes on a host of subjects, including politics, the White House, and Congress.
NBC Broadcaster
A five-time winner of the Emmy Award for "Outstanding Sports Broadcaster," speaker Bob Costas has also hosted his own talk show and substitute hosted the Today Show.
Civil & Women's Rights Activist
Known for coining the term “intersectionality,” Crenshaw offers a critical examination of how social structures interact with gender and race on multiple levels, resulting in social inequality.
Owner of The Dallas Mavericks
Dallas Mavericks owner and public speaker Mark Cuban was the first owner in team sports to encourage fan interaction through email on his personal computer.
Executive Producer & Host of “Living on Earth
With issues of pollution and global warming dominating the public agenda, Steve Curwood explores these topics and more as executive producer of NPR's "Living on Earth."
Harvard Professor of Applied Economics & Author
An academic and a public servant, speaker David Cutler is an acclaimed voice in health economics and public economics.
Co-CEO & Founder of Godfrey Dadich Partners
Scott Dadich is an award-winning designer, accomplished editor, and visionary filmmaker. Scott joined Patrick Godfrey to launch Godfrey Dadich Partners after 11 years at Condé Nast, where, most recently, he was Editor in Chief of WIRED.
Journalist & Social Activist
Doctors, politicians and educators talk about meeting the needs of those with Down syndrome. Paul Daugherty has lived it and has paved a way for parents whose children are born with intellectual disabilities.
Counsel to the President of the United States from July 1970 to April 1973
John Dean served as Counsel to the President of the United States from July 1970 to April 1973. Before becoming White House counsel at age thirty-one, he was the chief minority counsel to the Judiciary Committee of the US House of Representatives.
Leading Health Policy Journalist
Susan Dentzer is the editor-in-chief of Health Affairs, the nation's leading peer-reviewed journal focused on the intersection of health, healthcare, and health policy in the United States and internationally.
Police Chief of the Watertown Police Department
Ed Deveau is the former Police Chief of the Watertown Police Department who led state police, federal agencies, and surrounding communities’ officers in the 20-hour search for the convicted Boston Marathon bomber.
News Anchor & Alcohol Recovery Advocate
News anchor and speaker Laurie Dhue shares her experience with alcoholism to inspire audiences to overcome substance abuse.
Founder of TheOnion.com
Scott Dikkers is the founder of TheOnion.com, the world-renowned humor publication. He’s served as The Onion’s owner and editor-in-chief for much of the last 30 years.
National Book Award-Nominated Author & Executive Editor of YES! Media
Evette Dionne, known across the internet as @freeblackgirl, is a journalist, critic, and magazine editor. She’s the National Book Award-nominated and Coretta Scott King honor author of Lifting As We Climb.
New York Times Columnist & Pulitzer Prize-Winner
Maureen Dowd, winner of the 1999 Pulitzer Prize for distinguished commentary and author of three New York Times best sellers, became an Op-Ed columnist in 1995. In August 2014, she also became a writer for The Times Magazine.
Political Strategist, Social Activist & Writer
Marcia L. Dyson has been hailed as one of our nation's foremost religious figures. Using her special brand of wisdom, Rev. Dyson's speeches address issues on race, gender inequality, and other national concerns.
Public Intellectual & Best-Selling Author
Featured on NPR and MSNBC, Professor Dyson melds scholarly insight with contemporary culture and examines civil rights and race relations. This thought-provoking talks foster social change.
Former Health Policy Advisor to President Obama
Speaker Steven Eastaugh is a nationally acclaimed speaker, consultant, and agent of change who helps organizations navigate ObamaCare and changes to healthcare.
Former US Congressman, Professor at Princeton University
As a Congressman, Mickey Edwards led House Republican leadership as chairman of the Republican Policy Committee. He is now a lecturer at Princeton, political columnist and author of Reclaiming Conservatism.
Historian / Biographer / Teacher
Grandson of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, David Eisenhower is a political scientist and historian with great insight into American history and the leaders who shaped it. He is the author of Eisenhower: At War.
Acclaimed Author & Expert on Strategic Leadership
Through The Eisenhower Group, Inc, a company she founded more than thirty years ago, Ms. Eisenhower has used her extensive domestic and geopolitical experience to help Fortune 100 and Fortune 500 companies untangle the issues they face in meeting the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Journalist & Author
Swedish journalist, author and digital futurist Andreas Ekström wrote a bestselling book about Google – and has since been a leading commentator on all things digital around the world.
Award-Winning Journalist & Television Producer
Since her diagnosis, Linda Ellerbee has told her story about living with breast cancer. An outspoken journalist, award-winning TV producer and author of Take Big Bites, she is a woman of spirit and determination.
NYT Correspondent & Filmmaker
Adam Ellick is a Senior Video Journalist at The New York Times known primarily for “Class Dismissed: Malala’s Story.” Ellick has visited more than 70 countries, often earning a front row seat to historic events.
Journalist & ADHD Authority
Katherine Ellison is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist, former foreign correspondent, and author of Buzz: A Year of Paying Attention, a memoir from a mom with ADHD about her son with ADHD.
Author & Vice Chair, Ms. Foundation For Women
Phoebe Eng helps leading companies tap into the power of globalism and diversity to spur innovation. By designing “border-busting” initiatives, Eng has helped amplify the voices of women and diverse communities.
Best-Selling Author on Science of High Performance
Best-selling author David Epstein has made it his mission to uncover the keys to achieving high performance in any domain. In his latest book, Range, he examines the world’s top performers, from professional athletes to artists and more.
Former CNN Executive & Best-Selling Author
Gail Evans is the best-selling author of Play Like A Man Win Like A Woman: What Men Know About Success That Women Need to Learn. On CNN Evans developed various original talk shows such as CNN & Company.
Civil Rights Activist
Myrlie Evers-Williams was the first woman to lead and restore the NAACP’s credibility in a time of controversy. She continues to fight for racial and gender equality and co-authored Medgar Evers’ autobiography.
Noted Activist & Actor
Known for his role on M*A*S*H, Mike Farrell is dedicated to protecting human rights. A spokesperson for CONCERN/America, he speaks about overlooked topics as arms control, veterans’ rights, prison reform and more.
Golf Commentator for CBS Sports
David Feherty enjoyed a career as a professional golfer with 10 victories and over $3 million in prize money. Now Feherty is a golf commentator for CBS Sports and a columnist for GOLF Magazine and Golfonline.com.
Political Activist & Radio Personality
Anita Perez Ferguson has been a political voice for 15 years as the past president of the National Women’s Political Caucus. She discusses women in politics, election reform and diversity on NPR and Latina Style.
Host of Judge Alex
The host of the nationally syndicated Judge Alex, speaker Judge Alex Ferrer draws on his personal experiences and extensive police, legal and judicial knowledge to inspire others to reach for their dreams.
Award-Winning Journalist & Commentator
Named "the best interviewer in the business" by Sports Illustrated, Roy Firestone is the former host of ESPN's Up Close Prime Time. Firestone is recognized for his gifts as a journalist, commentator and performer.
Host of Public Radio’s Science Friday
A 35-year veteran of public radio and the host of the long running Science Friday program, Ira Flatow is an award-winning science correspondent and broadcast journalist familiar to millions around the world.
New York Times Best-Selling Author & One of the Nation's Most Respected Political Journalists
Franklin Foer, one of the nation's most respected political journalists, is a staff writer at the Atlantic. For seven years, he was the editor of the New Republic magazine.
Mother of Trayvon Martin
After the death of her son made national headlines, Fulton channeled her loss to become a gun control law activist and motivational speaker.
Sportswriter / Media Personality
Peter Gammons, a Major League Baseball journalist, serves as a studio analyst on ESPN's Baseball Tonight. He also provides Diamond Notes, his regular reports during the baseball season for ESPN's SportsCenter.
Photographer of Infants in Whimsical Settings
Anne Geddes creates images that are iconic, award winning and beloved. She speaks about growing her business from nothing to an international brand, being a global children's advocate and following your dreams.
Emmy-Winning Journalist & Host
From TV journalist to radio personality, producer and businesswoman, Gibbons has been a part of America's living rooms for over 20 years. She hosts What Should You Do? and won The Celebrity Apprentice Season 7.
China Editor, The Economist
An NPR Foreign Correspondent and China Editor of The Economist magazine, Gifford authored the critically acclaimed China Road: A Journey into the Future of a Rising Power.
New York Times Bestselling Author & James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor, Princeton University
One of the nation’s most prominent scholars, Dr. Eddie Glaude, Jr. is an author, political commentator, public intellectual and passionate educator who examines the complex dynamics of the American experience.
President of Health Futures, Inc.
President of Health Futures, Inc., Dr. Jeff Goldsmith is an expert in the business of healthcare working in the creation and execution of health policy. He teaches medical education at the University of Virginia.
Award-winning Journalist
A longtime columnist for The New York Daily News and co-host of Democracy Now, Gonzalez is one of the country’s best-known Latino journalists with a career that spans four decades.
Host, Democracy Now!
Amy Goodman is the host and executive producer of the independent news program Democracy Now! She speaks on political, gender, human rights and economic issues as well as her book Breaking the Sound Barrier.
Investigative Journalist / Author
Journalist and author David Goodman is an avid human rights speaker. He encourages us that we can make a difference and that it is everyday citizens who have the power to challenge government and prevail.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Columnist & Commentator
Ellen Goodman's Pulitzer Prize-winning commentary appears in more than 400 newspapers. Humorous and perceptive, her syndicated columns keep a close eye on American culture, relationships, and social change.
Chief of Staff to Chief Content Officer, Netflix
As Obama’s personal aide, Ferial Govashiri spent the past 10 years within arm’s length of one of the world’s most powerful leaders. She is now the Chief Of Staff to Chief Content Officer at Netflix.
Renowned Sportscaster
Jim Gray has been a network TV and national cable sportscaster since 1981 and is currently with Showtime, Fox, and Westwood One Radio. He has reported on thousands of games as well as hosted primetime specials.
ESPN Host
Mike Greenberg formerly hosted ESPN Radio's "Mike and Mike in the Morning," the highest-rated radio sports talk show. Giving insight as both a sportscaster and father, he goes to the mat in Why My Wife Thinks I'm an Idiot.
Voting, Activism & Youth Culture Expert
Former National Director of Project Vote and President of Rock the Vote, Jehmu Greene developed progressive campaigns, produced public service announcements, and implemented partnerships with media companies.
ABC’s The View Co-Host
Alyssa Farah is a communications strategist and Founding Partner of &Partners, a boutique corporate consulting firm. Farah is the only person to have served as the top spokesperson for the President, Vice President and Secretary of Defense.
Former White House Press Secretary for Donald Trump
Stephanie Grisham is a public relations specialist and television pundit with over 15 years of experience at the highest levels of government and media relations. She is one of just 31 people in American history to hold the title of White House Press Secretary.
Star of the Award-Winning Show Breaking Bad
A successful television, film, and Broadway actress, Gunn has recently garnered critical acclaim for her role as "Sklyer White" in the award-winning television show Breaking Bad.
Emmy Award-Winning Journalist & Author
Sandra Guzman is the author of The Latina's Bible: The Nueva Latina's Guide to Love, Spirituality, Family, and La Vida. With warmth, humor and wisdom, her writing tackles obstacles that many Latinas face today.
Iranian American Writer & Journalist
A celebrated poet and filmmaker, Roya Hakakian is the author of Journey from the Land of No and a founding member of the Iran Human Rights Documentation Center. She speaks on the Middle East and human rights.
Five-Time Emmy Award-Winning Journalist
Sheila Hamilton is an award-winning journalist and the host of Portland’s #1 radio program, Kink.fm. Her book, All the Things We Never Knew is at the top of Amazon's new releases in mental health and suicide.
Emmy Winning TV Host & Breast Cancer Survivor
Best known as the co-host of Dancing with the Stars and Entertainment Tonight and host of Game Show Network's wordplay game show, Tug Of Words, Emmy-winner Samantha Harris is also an author, certified health coach & cancer survivor.
Award-Winning Political Journalist & White House Correspondent
Award-winning journalist John Harwood is a widely-respected nonpartisan expert in presidential politics and an admired voice in American homes renowned for his compelling explorations into headline-grabbing events.
Juvenile Court Judge & Star of Judge Hatchett
Nationally recognized as an expert on juvenile & social issues, Judge Glenda Hatchett garnered national appeal for her award-winning show, Judge Hatchett. She is the author of Dare to Take Charge.
Acclaimed Biographer & Pulitzer Finalist
Best-selling author, prize-winning journalist, acclaimed biographer and cultural historian Wil Haygood tells the story of America through the lens of history, politics, sports, race and the lives of change-making African-Americans.
New York Times Politics Reporter & Podcast Host
Astead W. Herndon is a national politics reporter for the New York Times and a political analyst for CNN. He reports and hosts "The Run Up," a political podcast from The New York Times that debuted ahead of the 2022 midterm elections.
Investigative Reporter
Five-time Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Seymour Hersh is one of the most influential investigative reporters of the past 35 years. He focuses on the abuse of power in the name of national security.
Globally Recognized Authority on Leading & Creating Cultures of Dignity
Harvard’s Dr. Donna Hicks is an expert in human dignity and a specialist in conflict resolution. Through her work Dr. Hicks has identified a major obstacle in our human relationships and shares how to use dignity as a way of repairing relationships.
Founder of the Brown Moses Blog and Bellingcat
Eliot Higgins is an award-winning investigative journalist and founder of the Brown Moses Blog and Bellingcat. His inquiries have revealed extraordinary findings such as the downing of flight MH17 in Ukraine.
Emmy & Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist
Maria Hinojosa is the Pulitzer Prize-winning founder of Futuro Media based in New York City. She has written four books, won multiple awards, and is the Anchor and Executive Producer of the Peabody Award-winning show Latino US.
Fox News Legal & Democratic Contributor
Tamara Holder founded xpunged.com and is a practicing lawyer focusing on governors’ pardons and clemency and formally practiced criminal defense. She is regularly on Fox News as a legal and democratic contributor.
Journalist & Co-Anchor of America This Morning
An award-winning journalist and international TV personality, T.J. Holmes was named to The Grio's "100 List of History Makers." He covered everything from the first papal visit to the US to the Hudson River crash.
Authority on Generations in America
Neil Howe is a best-selling author and expert on generations in America. He gives powerful insights into today's generation, what motivates them as consumers and workers, and how they will shape our future.
Award-Winning Journalist
Civil Rights trailblazer Hunter-Gault discusses her historic entry into the University of Georgia as its first black female student and the road she took through the Jim Crow South to get there.
CNBC Senior Analyst and Commentator, Trailblazing Financial Journalist
What are the forces driving the economy and how will they impact you, your business, your industry, and your investment decisions? Those are the questions Ron Insana has answered for viewers and listeners every single day for over three decades.
Civil Rights Activist & Politician
Presidential candidate and civil rights activist Reverend Jesse Jackson is the voice of American activism. Called “the great unifier,” he has played a pivotal role for civil rights and economic and social justice.
Attorney & Legal Analyst for CNN
Joey Jackson is a nationally recognized Attorney who has for more than two decades represented individuals and Labor Unions in State and Federal Court.
Best-Selling Author & "Human Guinea Pig"
Known as "the human guinea pig," A.J. Jacobs lived as a biblical subject, followed every bit of medical advice to be the healthiest man alive, and followed other bizarre situations that he documents in his novels.
Journalist & Media Expert
Named one of the 100 most influential and respected media figures in the world by the World Economic Forum, Jeff Jarvis writes about media, technology, and business on his blog, Buzzmachine.com.
Co-Founder and VP, The Documentary Group
Kayce Freed Jennings is co-founder and executive VP of The Documentary Group, an independent production company that produced the 2008 Academy Award nominee, Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience.
Political and Social Activist
An award-winning journalist, communications specialist, and former NAACP National Youth Director, Jeff is as comfortable in front of the camera as he is behind the scenes as an activist and corporate strategist.
NAACP President & CEO
In 2017, the executive committee of the NAACP National Board of Directors elected Derrick Johnson President and CEO. Derrick Johnson formerly served as vice chairman of the NAACP National Board of Directors.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Reporter & Author
Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter for The New York Times, David Cay Johnson is the author of Free Lunch and Perfectly Legal, where he breaks down the wealth of information on disparities of the US tax system.
Television Personality, Attorney & Author
TV personality, former prosecutor and author Star Jones offers a fresh perspective on the most talked about crime and justice, political, and sociological issues from entertainment, politics, and pop culture.
MSNBC Political Analyst, Host of the Fast Politics Podcast & Vanity Fair Special Correspondent
Molly Jong-Fast is an American writer, journalist, author, political commentator, and podcaster. Jong-Fast is the author of two novels; Normal Girl and The Social Climber's Handbook, and her memoir will be coming out from Viking in spring 2025.
Oil Expert / Author
Antonia Juhasz is a leading oil and energy expert. She is an award-winning policy-analyst, author, and journalist covering all aspects of oil and energy policy with a specialization on the role of oil in conflict.
Author & Atlantic Monthly Correspondent
Robert D. Kaplan is a senior fellow at the Center for New American Security and a national correspondent for The Atlantic. He was recognized on Foreign Policy magazine's Top 100 Global Thinkers list.
Political Analyst, Best-Selling Author & Emmy-Nominated Investigative Reporter
Brian J. Karem is an award-winning journalist, Emmy-nominated reporter and author of seven books. Brian is a veteran White House correspondent and former senior correspondent for Playboy Magazine.
Acclaimed Author & Editor-in-Chief of The Jerusalem Post
Yaakov Katz is the Former Editor-in-Chief of The Jerusalem Post and author of Shadow Strike – Inside Israel’s Secret Mission to Eliminate Syrian Nuclear Power.
U.S. Special Correspondent for BBC Studios
Katty Kay is an award-winning journalist and news anchor who brings an instinctively global perspective to her observations on American politics and global affairs – a result of having grown-up living and traveling all over the Middle East, as well as reporting from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the U.S. throughout her career.
CNN National Security Analyst & Former Assistant Secretary at DHS
Juliette Kayyem currently serves as the Robert and Renee Belfer Lecturer in International Security at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government where she is Faculty Director of the Homeland Security Project.
Former US Representative, Rhode Island
Patrick Kennedy was a Representative from Rhode Island to the US House of Representatives. He now works as a mental health advocate and speaks about mental health, healthcare and many other related issues.
Past Commissioner, US Food & Drug Administration
Former Commissioner of the US Food and Drug Administration, David A. Kessler has had an accomplished career in medicine and government. He now serves as the Dean of the School of Medicine at the University of CA.
Sports Journalist
Known for his coverage of the Tour de France, Armen Keteyian is an Emmy Award-winning sports journalist who has been CBS News' chief investigative correspondent since 2006.
Pioneering Advertising Researcher & Filmmaker
Recognized for her work on the image of women in advertising and for her studies of alcohol and tobacco advertising, Jean Kilbourne is renowned for her ability to present provocative topics in a way that unites.
CNN Chief National Correspondent
John King is the anchor of CNN's John King, USA, offering in-depth analysis, discussion and commentary on a blend of politics, national & world affairs, and social, cultural & media trends.
Award-winning Correspondent / Author
Stephen Kinzer is an award-winning correspondent who has reported from more than 50 countries. His book, Overthrow, is an account of the fourteen times the United States has overthrown foreign governments.
Contributing Opinion Writer for the New York Times & Author
Combining his breadth of historical knowledge, extensive global travels, and memorable anecdotes, James Kirchick illuminates the most important issue in the world today — freedom.
Author, Entrepreneur & Teacher
Robert Kiyosaki authored Rich Dad, Poor Dad where he explains what the rich teach their children about money that the poor and middle class do not. His talks reshape how you think about what to do with your money.
Author, Notorious RBG, Attorney & Activist
Knizhnik is a staff attorney at the Legal Aid Society of New York City’s Criminal Defense Practice. While a student at NYU School of Law, she created the Notorious RBG Tumblr, and in 2015 she co-wrote Notorious RBG with journalist Irin Carmon.
Columnist & Political Commentator for CNN
Ranked as one of the 100 most influential pundits on TV, Kohn is a leading progressive voice. Her inspiring, uplifting keynotes convey a message of connection and compassion for all.
Journalist
A journalist for over 30 years, Morton Kondracke has covered nearly every phase of American politics and foreign policy. He is the executive editor of "Roll Call" and regular guest on The McLaughlin Group.
Author / Lieutenant Colonel, US Marine Corps
During his last tour of duty in Iraq, Lt. Col. Jay Kopelman adopted an abandoned puppy left behind during the battle for Fallujah. Upon his return to the US, he recounted the story in his best-selling memoir.
Educator & Social Justice Advocate
A former urban teacher, Jonathan Kozol is a long-term public education activist. He confronts the mania of high-stakes tests, the invasion of private corporations in schools, and the inequalities of urban schools.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning NYT Columnist
How good do you really have to be, to be christened the reporter’s reporter…by other reporters? You have to be Nicholas Kristof – good.
Host of Media Buzz on FOX News
As the host of Media Buzz on FOX News, Howard Kurtz examines the bias and shortcomings of the news business. Covering the media since 1990, Kurtz has served as Washington bureau chief of Newsweek.
Political Economist & Best-Selling Author
Robert Kuttner is co-founder and co-editor of The American Prospect magazine. He was a columnist for Business Week, and continues to write columns for Huffington Post and The New York Times international edition.
Civil Rights Activist & Sociologist
Sociologist Joyce Ladner is one of the nation’s pre-eminent thought leaders. Her career was shaped by her involvement with the civil rights movement in Mississippi and as an organizer of the March on Washington.
Native American Environmentalist
An advocate for frontline native environmental groups and ecological balance, LaDuke was twice Ralph Nader’s vice-presidential candidate for the Green Party.
Award-Winning Investigative Reporter
Five-time Emmy winner Peter Lance has written acclaimed books such as 1000 Years for Revenge and Triple Cross, both of which explore the mistakes made after 9/11.
Award-Winning Journalist, Creator of Queer News Daily & Author
Nico Lang is a multi award-winning journalist, editor, culture critic, and essayist. In the decade they’ve spent in journalism, Lang has also served as the deputy editor for Out magazine.
Executive Public Policy Storyteller & Convener
Jeff Le has had a career at the highest levels of public policy and politics at the state, federal and international levels. He is a recognized thought leader in political advocacy and representation, and his analysis and opinion-writing has been featured in many publications.
Biographer & Author
A best-selling author and Kennedy expert, speaker Laurence Leamer most recently authored Fantastic: The Life of Arnold Schwarzenegger, which USA Today called "truly fantastic."
Actress / Creator of Angry Little Asian Girl
Lela Lee created the cult online cartoon "Angry Little Asian Girl" and website for people, like her, who grew up thinking girls shouldn't get upset. She has guest starred on Will & Grace and Friends among others.
VP of News & Men's Programming, Interactive One
Jamilah Lemieux is VP of News and Men's Programming for Interactive One. As Senior Editor at EBONY, she helped lead the reimagining of its website in 2012 and was later promoted to Senior Digital Editor.
NBC Correspondent / Author
For 25 years, Mike Leonard has traveled the world and captivated millions of TV viewers with his wry and witty feature stories on the often-overlooked aspects of everyday life for NBC’s The Today Show.
Sociologist / Author
Director of the Program for the Study of Violence and Conflict at Northeastern University, Dr. Jack Levin is an authority on school crime and violence. He offers strategies and solutions for keeping students safe.
Educator & Author of The Price of Privilege
Author of The Price of Privilege, Madeline Levine cautions parents to be cognizant of the harmful influence of media violence and offers instructions on properly supervising their children's viewing habits.
Wired’s Editor at Large
A former senior editor of Newsweek, Steven Levy has been at the forefront of technology since the 80s. Levy is an expert on innovation, creative technology and technology's impact on business and society.
Foremost Expert on Asian Pop Culture
Stu Levy is an entrepreneur, producer, director and writer of graphic novels, film, television and new media. Founder of the pioneering media company TOKYOPOP, he established the manga market in North America.
Correspondent, NPR Washington Desk
Mara Liasson is a national political correspondent for NPR. Her reports can be heard regularly on NPR's award-winning newsmagazine programs Morning Edition and All Things Considered.
CEO, Citizen University & Civic Evangelist
One of the country’s most sought-after speakers on citizen power, civic health, the future of democracy and American identity, civic evangelist Eric Liu celebrates shared values and challenges Americans to live up to them.
Fashion Expert
Stacy London is one of America’s foremost fashion experts. She is best known as the co-host of TLC’s hugely popular show, What Not to Wear for 10 years.
Renowned Public Opinion Researcher & Pollster
A communications professional, Frank Luntz is the author of Words the Work: It’s Not What You Say It’s What People Hear that examines the art of language and how word choice can change the course of history.
Best-Selling Author & Community Activist
Author of the New York Times best-seller All Souls, Michael Patrick MacDonald shares his remarkable story of survival and redemption while examining the relationship between poverty and class he witnessed growing up in South Boston.
Best-Selling Author of The Sleep Fix, ABC News Anchor & Correspondent
Diane Macedo is currently the daytime anchor for ABC News Live, ABC News’ 24/7 streaming news channel, anchoring ABC News Live Update, The Breakdown and breaking news and special events.
Comedian
Star of HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher, Bill Maher is one of today’s most politically astute comedians. His unflinching honesty and commitment to never pulling a punch have garnered him respect and admiration.
Author & Founder of Moral Courage TV
Professor Irshad Manji role models the key teaching of moral courage: that doing the right thing in the face of our fears makes us whole. A senior fellow at the USC, she is an educator at heart.
Former Treasurer of the United States
Rosario Marin firmly believes that "of him to whom much is given, much is expected." She served as the highest-ranking Latina in the Bush Administration and the first U.S. Treasurer born outside of the country.
The Bernie Madoff Whistleblower
Markopolos was catapulted into the spotlight as the man who blew the whistle on Bernie Madoff and his $65 billion Ponzi scheme. He speaks about the Madoff scheme and how you can recognize and prevent fraud.
Host of NPR’s "Tell Me More"
The host of NPR's "Tell Me More," Martin has spent more than 25 years as a journalist. Her inquisitive nature and passion for the latest groundbreaking topics make Martin an informative keynote speaker.
Host & Managing Editor of #RolandMartinUnfiltered
A dynamic and influential voice on the intersection of politics, social justice and race, Martin gives a voice to the voiceless and speaks truth to power on the issues of the day.
Radio Personality
Angie Martinez is the reigning queen of radio. With nearly 20 years of on-air experience, Martinez is also an author, actress, television host, recording artist, activist, and brand spokesperson.
Travel Writer & Commentator
America's best-known travel writer and commentator. Maxa's one-hour weekend travel show, "The Savvy Traveler", is one of public radio's biggest hits.
Cartoonist and Writer, Close to Home
McPherson is the cartoonist and writer behind the renowned comic panel Close to Home. McPherson has published more than 20 book collections, yearly block calendars, and an award-winning line of greeting cards.
Mother of Michael Brown
McSpadden is the mother of Michael Brown, the slain Missouri teen who was killed by Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson following an altercation at a convenience store in St. Louis city in August 2014.
News Anchor
The anchor of Morning Express with Robin Meade, Robin Meade has reported on many of today's issues. Meade draws on her extensive knowledge of world affairs and experience as an anchor to deliver her speeches.
Fiction Writer / Journalist
Mehta's book Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found was praised by The New York Times. He has written and spoken on the future of global cities, immigration, development, writing, and Indo-American issues.
Anchor, The Beat with Ari Melber
Ari Melber is an Emmy Award-winning journalist, writer and attorney. He serves as Chief Legal Correspondent for MSNBC, covering the Justice Department, Supreme Court, FBI, prominent court cases and national legal issues.
The People's Court Judge
Judge Milian joined The People's Court in January 2001, with more than 19 years of legal experience on the bench, becoming the first female judge to preside over The People's Court.
CNN Global Affairs Analyst & Middle East Expert
After years of shaping US policy in the Middle East as an advisor to the State Department, speaker Aaron David Miller is currently Vice-President for New Initiatives and Director of the Middle East Program at the Woodrow Wilson Center.
Olympic Gold Medalist & Cancer Survivor
An unmatched athlete, celebrated health advocate, cancer survivor, and mother, Shannon Miller is an extraordinary individual who intimately understands the day-to-day plights of women experience.
President & CEO of The Paley Center for Media
As a connector, curator, convener, Pat Mitchell elevates women’s stories, ideas and leadership to create opportunities for women and girls to engage with their passions, purpose and power. She is the author of Becoming a Dangerous Woman.
Filmmaker, Author & TV Host, Globe Trekker
Holly Morris is an award-winning filmmaker and writer, and television host. Her newest documentary, The Babushkas of Chernobyl, premiered at the 2015 Los Angeles Film Festival.
Futurist
Morrison is an internationally known author, consultant and futurist specializing in long-term forecasting and planning with particular emphasis on health care and the changing business environment.
Former White House Chief of Staff
With more than a decade of government service, Mick Mulvaney has been at the forefront of U.S. economic policymaking and politics at the highest levels. Most recently, he was President Trump’s White House Chief of Staff for more than a year.
2021 Nobel Peace Prize Winner & Editor-in-Chief of Novaya Gazeta
Dmitry Muratov is a Russian journalist who, as editor in chief of the newspaper Novaya Gazeta, was a vocal advocate for an independent press and known for investigating abuses of power. In 2021 he was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace, cited for his “efforts to safeguard freedom of expression.”
Frederick I. and Grace Stokes Professor of Law at NYU School of Law
Melissa Murray knows the transformational power of women’s rights and gender justice. As a leading scholar of constitutional law and reproductive rights and justice, she researches and writes about the structures, systems, and institutions.
Consumer Advocate
A former Green Party candidate for president, Ralph Nader fights for the people on the issues that matter most: healthcare, safety, environment, ethics, education, and economic & social equality.
Syndicated Columnist
Ruben Navarrette Jr. is a nationally syndicated columnist with The Washington Post Writers Group and appears in nearly 200 papers including The Chicago Tribune and The San Francisco Chronicle.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Author & Journalist
Nazario has spent over 20 years writing about social issues including immigration. Her acclaimed book, Enrique’s Journey, recounts a Honduran boy’s struggle to find his mother in the U.S.
Former Asst Secretary, Secondary & Elementary Ed
Susan B. Neuman is a professor of early childhood and literacy and chair of the Teaching and Learning Department at the New York University’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development.
Award-Winning Journalist & Humanitarian
A journalist and humanitarian, Betty Nguyen’s work has taken her across the globe. Her striking authenticity and powerful storytelling moves audiences to explore pressing issues that affect us all.
Journalist & Author
The author of Standing Alone in Mecca: An American Woman's Struggle for the Soul of Islam, she is a former Wall Street Journal correspondent. Her character figures promptly in the film A Mighty Heart.
Anchor of Inside Edition & Best-Selling Author
As the anchor of Inside Edition, Norville is an acclaimed television journalist, active volunteer, and author of Back On Track: How to Straighten Out Your Life When it Throws You a Curve, among other books.
Academy Award Nominated Director
Noujaim's controversial documentary Control Room, about the Arabic-language news station Al Jazeera, called into question the prevailing images and positions offered up by the US news media about the war in Iraq.
Award-Winning Diversity Activist, Changemaker & Political Commentator
Subject of the #1 Netflix film WHITE HOT: The Rise and Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch Ben is known for his transformative work in culture, politics, and entertainment.
Cybersecurity Expert, Legendary FBI Operative Featured in the Film Breach, Bestselling Author, Technology Futurist & Attorney
In 2001, he helped capture the most notorious spy in US history, Robert Hanssen, a 25-year veteran of the FBI. The remarkable true events of his life are the inspiration behind the dramatic thriller, Breach.
Attorney Mediator & Zen Meditation Instructor
Angela E. Oh serves as the Executive Director of the Western Justice Center Foundation, a nonprofit organization that advances peaceful conflict resolution. She has worked as an attorney and public lecturer.
Host of The Suze Orman Show & Bestselling Author
The host of the acclaimed Suze Orman Show, Orman is America's most recognized expert on personal finance.
Epidemiologist & Director, Center for Infectious Disease
Hailed by CNN as “the infectious disease expert who has been warning us for a decade and a half that the world will face a pandemic,” Dr. Michael Osterholm quickly became the go-to expert on the public health impact of COVID-19.
English Interpreter for Mikhail Gorbachev
The principal English interpreter for Mikhail Gorbachev & Soviet foreign minister Eduard Shevardnadze, Palazchenko participated in all US-Soviet ministerial and summit meetings leading to the end of the Cold War.
Former VP Candidate & Governor of Alaska
Known for the meteoric rise that captured hearts and minds worldwide, Sarah Palin is a passionate voice on faith and family who shares her vision for an energy independent, fiscally responsible and safe America.
Market Guru & Global Entrepreneur
Patel reaches 280 million viewers through his newspaper review on BBC – discussing politics, economics and social issues. He has weekly shows on business and politics on Bloomberg TV and has authored 18 books.
Medicine & Health Commentator
Dr. Peeke is a regular medicine and science commentator for CNN and is a featured medicine and health commentator on NPR. She has also appeared as in-studio expert on the Oprah Winfrey Show, among others.
Journalism Professor, NYU & Editor, PandoDaily
As a journalism professor at New York University and editor of PandoDaily, he has successfully navigated through the world of print and online media, providing his own unique theories and opinions on them.
Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist
A former writer for Casey Kasem's radio program "American Top 40," Leonard Pitts, Jr. was a pop music critic at the Miami Herald where he began writing about race and current affairs in his own column.
Emmy Award-Winning Co-Anchor of ABC's Nightline & Best-Selling Author
Byron Pitts is an award-winning journalist who has covered some of the most horrific and dangerous news stories in the world, from Sept. 11 to Hurricane Katrina to the Boston Marathon to wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Editor-in-Chief, Columbia Journalism Review
The voice of journalism during precarious times, Kyle Pope examines our first Twitter President, the anti-media environment and the current and future role of the press.
GRAMMY-Nominated Poet; Human & Civil Rights Activist; Filmmaker; Author of 16 Books
Kevin Powell is one of the most celebrated political, cultural, literary, and hip-hop voices in America today. Kevin has gone on to author 14 books, including When We Free The World, his new short essay collection about freedom in America.
Award-Winning Russian Journalist & Author
Vladimir Pozner is a journalist and bestselling author, unafraid to take on controversial stories. Named the “Voice of Moscow” by CNN, Pozner is a foremost authority on Russian and Western relations.
Award-Winning Journalist & Author of The Family Roe
For more than twenty years, Joshua Prager, a former senior writer for The Wall Street Journal, has written about historical secrets. His work has shed new light on our cultural touchstones.
Political-Financial Expert, Journalist & Author
A former Managing Director at Goldman Sachs, Nomi Prins, PhD, is one of the highest ranking Wall Street insiders to publicly critique the synergies between banking and politics. She is a TV commentator and author.
ABC News Veteran, Creator & Host, What Would You Do?
A lifetime of “never taking no for an answer” took Quiñones from migrant farm work to the anchor desk at 20/20 and Primetime and creating, What Would You Do?, the hit show he hosts.
ABC News Chief Global Affairs Correspondent
Martha Raddatz is ABC News Chief Global Affairs Correspondent and co-anchor of This Week with George Stephanopoulos. She has covered national security, foreign policy and politics for decades.
ABC News Correspondent & U.S. Army Reserve Major
Stephanie Ramos is a correspondent for ABC News based in NYC. She has been front and center on every major news story and has covered everything from the White House, the COVID pandemic, the tragic Parkland shooting, and more.
Opinion Columnist for The Washington Post
Catherine Rampell writes a twice-weekly, nationally syndicated opinion column for The Washington Post. She covers economics, public policy, politics, and culture, with a special emphasis on data-driven journalism.
Attorney, Trayvon Martin & Michael Brown Family
Known for her representation of the Trayvon Martin family, Jasmine Rand excels in the civil rights arena. Rand is currently scheduled to provide lectures worldwide on her I Am the Change World Tour.
Legendary Journalist & News Anchor
One of the most renowned reporters of our time, Emmy-winning Dan Rather has experience and perspective few can match. He offers insight into world events and the significance of journalism today.
Actor, Director, Writer, Producer
Improvisational actor John Ratzenberger gained international fame as the character "Cliff" in the NBC phenomenon Cheers. He has enjoyed success as a screenwriter, director, producer, and Emmy-nominated actor.
Radio Talk-Show Host
Heralded as a "class act of the talk radio world" broadcast journalist, Rehm is a respected radio talk-show host. In her book, Finding My Voice, she talks about her life and struggle with a neurological condition.
Peabody and GLAAD-Award Winning Actress and Journalist
Eva Reign is a Peabody and GLAAD Award winning Brooklyn-based actress, writer and artist from St. Louis, Missouri.
Former Editor In Chief
Dr. Relman began his research career in nephrology and electrolyte and acid-base balance while at Yale, and he published numerous original research and clinical studies. He wrote a book called A Second Opinion.
Finance Professor & "Funny Economist"
Following a successful career on Wall Street, Ricchiuti became a business school professor at Tulane University. He is a contributor to several financial sources and speaks on a wide spectrum of economic issues.
Public Policy & Diversity Activist
Rice, co-director of The Advancement Project, is known for tackling problems of inequity and exclusion. She's received more than 50 awards for her work in expanding opportunity and advancing multiracial democracy.
Senior Advisor for National Security
As the senior advisor for national security at the New America Foundation, Ricks spent time in Iraq and wrote a bestseller. He also won the Pulitzer Prize for his coverage of the US military and counterterrorism.
Creator of the 5 Second Rule
Mel Robbins is the co-founder of Inspire52 and an award-winning CNN commentator and legal analyst. In her motivational presentations, Robbins speaks at events around the world on human behavior and leadership.
Executive Director of ColorOfChange
For over a decade, Rashad Robinson, Executive Director of ColorOfChange, has helped to mobilize communities across the country to create more inclusive cultural and political institutions.
TV Personality & Host of Access Hollywood
Emmy Award-winning journalist and recipient of DOVE’s prestigious Real Beauty Award, Shaun Robinson is a true role model. As a speaker, she encourages audiences to be more comfortable in their own skin.
Practical Futurist
Michael Rogers is an author, futurist and technology pioneer who recently completed two years as futurist-in-residence for The New York Times. Rogers zeros in on how technology affects society.
Executive Director of the ACLU
The first Latino and openly gay head of the ACLU, Romero has transformed the ACLU into an organizational powerhouse championing civil liberties, individual freedom and human rights.
ESPN Analyst & Former NBA Player
Current ESPN/ABC studio analyst and former 13-year NBA veteran Jalen Rose is one of the select professional athletes to maintain a high profile post-retirement as a philanthropist and entertainer.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Author & Columnist
Tina Rosenberg is co-writer of the New York Times "Fixes" column and author of Join the Club: How Peer Pressure Can Transform the World.
Award-Winning Journalist
Speaker Josh Rushing has gone from US Marine Corps Captain to military correspondent and analyst for Al Jazeera English to author of Mission Al Jazeera.
Former Editor & Managing Director, Fast Company
As the former Editor & Managing Director of Fast Company, Robert Safian is known for highlighting the “new” in business while keeping reverence for the “tried and true.”
Healthcare Futurist & Correspondent
Speaker Peter Salgo, a medical correspondent and physician, is one of today's most respected healthcare futurists. He examines developments in heart attack prevention.
Former Education Correspondent, NPR
A former elementary and middle school teacher, Sanchez was the education correspondent for NPR. His reports air on NPR's award-winning newsmagazines Morning Edition, All Things Considered, and Weekend Edition.
Political Analyst, Author & Entrepreneur
Known for understanding of American politics and culture, speaker Leslie Sanchez founded Impacto Group, a communications and market research firm.
Academy-Winning Actress & Activist
An acclaimed actress, speaker Susan Sarandon is also an activist who supports efforts to relieve hunger, promote women's issues, assist children in need and prevent HIV/AIDS.
Finance & Investment Guru
Speaker Terry Savage offers sound advice on investments and personal financial planning. She has authored The Savage Truth on Money and The Savage Number.
Executive Producer of Live Participatory Media
Simplynew founder and executive producer/director Marc Scarpa combines 20 years in the digital space and live broadcasting, with an understanding of consumer interests and popular culture.
New York Post Columnist & Author of The Canceling of the American Mind
Rikki Schlott is a free speech activist, a columnist for the New York Post, co-author of a bestselling book—The Canceling of the American Mind--and a political commentator.
Pulitzer-Winning Columnist
A Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist known for her honest and heartfelt take on the realities of life, speaker Connie Schultz lures readers with her astute observations and wit.
Columnist & Global Affairs Expert
A syndicated columnist who applies experiences as an immigrant, soldier and reporter to his insight on global affairs, Edward Schumacher-Matos is a Harvard professor.
Political & Social Activist
A leading voice in civil rights, speaker Al Sharpton is founder and president of the National Action Network, which supports community businesses and combats corporate racism.
Correspondent, 20/20
An award-winning political and lifestyle reporter, speaker Lynn Sherr is a 20/20 correspondent who specializes in women's issues and social change.
India's Leading Journalist
Known for introducing a new style of aggressive, independent journalism to India, speaker Arun Shourie touches on the global economy, Indian politics and global events.
Former Senior White House Official, CNN Political Contributor & Co-Host of the Trailblaze Podcast
Jamal Simmons has been at the nexus of politics and media for three decades. He is currently a Political Commentator on CNN and Co-Host of the TralBlaze Podcast on Politicon.
Political Commentator & TV Personality
From his conversations with world figures to his work to inspire the next generation, Tavis Smiley—broadcaster, author, publisher, advocate, and philanthropist—has emerged as an outstanding voice for change.
Principal Chief, Cherokee Nation
A force in building self-sufficient Native American nations, Smith speaks passionately about developing leadership, improving education, and preserving cultural values and language.
Former Chief Medical Editor, NBC News
Highly sought-after as a speaker, surgeon and veteran journalist Dr. Nancy Snyderman is one of America’s most trusted voices in healthcare.
Former Campaign Manager for Hillary Clinton
The first Hispanic woman to run a presidential campaign, attorney Solis Doyle explores politics, the rise of women and minorities in politics and issues affecting Hispanic Americans.
NPR Special Correspondent
The first woman to anchor a nightly news program, speaker Susan Stamberg spent 14 years as co-host of NPR's "All Things Considered."
Psychologist & Stereotype Expert
Speaker Claude Steele is an expert on "stereotype threat," the notion that students who belong to negatively stereotyped groups are likely to perform less well.
Pop Icon & Economist
A pop icon, lawyer, former game show host, and brilliant economist, speaker Ben Stein discusses politics, the economy, and how an adopted child changed his life.
Preventive Cardiologist & Acclaimed Author
A champion for women’s healthcare, Dr. Steinbaum prescribes clear, easy steps to maximize heart health, reduce the effects of stress, and restore balance by living a heart-centered life.
Expert on Young People & Sexuality
The author of Unhooked, Laura Sessions Stepp offers an inside look at the "hookup" - the basis of social interaction between sexes in high schools and colleges.
Former Talk Show Host & Comedian
A talented humorist and the former Emmy-winning host of The Daily Show, speaker Jon Stewart entertains audiences with his witty commentary on political and national issues.
Nobel Prize-Winning Economist
Speaker Joseph Stiglitz helped create a new branch of economics, "The Economics of Information." He discusses market performance and government intervention.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist, Author
The author of Life, Animated (inspiration for the Academy Award nominated film of the same name) shares his journey of connecting with his son, who has autism, through Disney movies.
Former Deputy Secretary of State
An award-winning journalist for Time and president of the Brookings Institution, speaker Strobe Talbott is a specialist on nuclear arms and global affairs.
Editor-at-Large, Essence Magazine
The editor-at-large for Essence, speaker Mikki Taylor is also the founder and CEO of Mikki Taylor Enterprises, a holding company.
Founder & CEO, National CARES Mentoring Movement
The visionary that built the Essence brand, Taylor left the magazine to found an organization devoted to breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty among African-Americans.
Maryland's 1st Female Lt. Governor
As Maryland's first female Lieutenant Governor, speaker Kathleen Kennedy Townsend has worked tirelessly on behalf of children and families.
Columnist & Humorist
Popular novelist and food writer Calvin Trillin has been called "one of the wittiest writers of our time." He pens columns for The New Yorker and The Nation.
President, Futuro Media & Founder, Latino Rebels
As Editorial Director for Futuro Media, Julio (Julito) Ricardo Varela is responsible for the overall editorial vision and voice of Latino USA, Latino Rebels and In The Thick.
Technology & Innovation Expert, Futurist
Called “Silicon Valley’s most provocative voice” for his ideas on technology trends and the future, Vivek Wadhwa’s work puts him at the heart of where innovations—technological and otherwise—are being developed.
Former Ambassador to Israel and Egypt
The former president and CEO of the Middle East Institute, Ambassador Edward S. Walker is an acclaimed speaker known for his work on both sides of the Arab-Israeli conflict.
Former US Representative, Author & Political Commentator
Joe Walsh is a former IL Congressman elected to Congress in the TEA Party wave of 2010. Following his service in Congress, Walsh became 1 of the most popular conservative talk radio hosts in the country, syndicated in major markets throughout the U.S.
Television News Journalist
A senior correspondent for The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer, speaker Margaret Warner interviews policymakers and leaders on such topics as foreign politics and health.
Super Bowl Champion & Former NFL Quarterback
While the football narrative of NFL quarterback Kurt Warner reads like a rags-to-riches Hollywood script, it is the story of a man filled with dignity, class, and undeniable faith that captured the imagination of the sports world and beyond.
Financial Expert & Social Activist
As the founder of YourBlackWorld.com, speaker Boyce Watkins fights for economic and social justice in America. He is the resident financial expert for AOL Black Voices.
Former Editor-in-Chief of Cosmopolitan & Author
Speaker Kate White led Cosmopolitan to become the US's top-selling women's magazine. She motivates others to reach goals in their personal and professional lives.
CNN News Anchor
As an anchors on CNN Newsroom and a network correspondent, speaker Fredricka Whitfield reports on breaking news events worldwide.
Acclaimed Commentator & NYT Bestselling Author
Bill O'Reilly's co-host and sparring partner on Radio Factor, speaker Lis Wiehl is one of the nation's most prominent trial lawyers and media commentators.
FOX News Commentator
Widely regarded as one of America’s top speakers, New York Times Best-selling Author, Fox News Political Analyst and Award-winning Columnist Juan Williams has a talent for motivating and inspiring audiences.
Columnist & Law Professor
The recipient of the MacArthur Foundation "Genius Award," speaker Patricia J. Williams is the author of Seeing a Color-Blind Future.
Award-Winning Economist
An award-winning economist, author, and professor, speaker Walter Williams expounds on issues ranging from public policy and taxation to government and free society.
Former Host of the Nightly Show
An Emmy Award winner, Wilmore is a comedic force on and off-screen, speaking out on diversity, politics, current events, culture and beyond.
Public Intellectual, Author & CNN Commentator
Theo Wilson is a founding member of the Denver Slam Nuba team, who won the 2011 National Poetry Slam. Wilson is the executive director of Shop Talk Live, Inc. The organization uses the barbershop as a staging ground for community dialogue and healing.
Author & Journalist
After ABC News anchor Bob Woodruff was wounded in Iraq, he and his wife, speaker Lee Woodruff, penned the best-selling In an Instant to help others cope with crisis.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist & Author
Woodward is a journalistic icon who gained international attention when he and Carl Bernstein broke the news of the Watergate scandal. The author of 21 bestsellers, he delivers the inside scoop on Washington.
Most Influential Dean in Legal Education
In 2004, Frank H. Wu became the ninth Dean of Wayne State University Law School in Detroit. The author of Yellow: Race in America Beyond Black and White, he was named among the Top 20 Scholars in the Nation.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist
Sheryl WuDunn, the first Asian-American reporter to win a Pulitzer Prize, is a business executive and best-selling author. She co-founded FullSky Partners, a consulting firm focusing on double-bottom line ventures in new media, technology and health.
Contributing Writer for The New Yorker & Award-Winning Author of Between Two Fires
Joshua Yaffa is a contributing writer for The New Yorker, where he covers Russia and Ukraine and Western policy in the region.
Award-Winning Medical Journalist & CNN Analyst
Seema Yasmin is an Emmy Award-winning medical journalist, public health physician, CNN analyst and author. She was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in breaking news reporting in 2017 for her reporting on a mass shooting.
Founder of the Arab American Institute
Speaker James Zogby is founder and president of Arab American Institute and hosts the award-winning Viewpoint with James Zogby.
Pollster, Bestselling Author & Founder of John Zogby Strategies
Hailed as the “Prince of Polling” and a "maverick predictor," John Zogby is a skilled pollster and trendspotter whose pioneering new technique, Tribal Analytics SM, is more predictive than traditional demographics.
Journalist & Author
Kristal Brent Zook, Ph.D. is a professor of journalism at Hofstra University in New York. Her entertainment, cultural, and social justice journalism have appeared in dozens of publications, including Vanity Fair, The New Yorker, Life, and Entertainment Weekly.