The Dr. Rod Berger Channel - Stories That Meet The Moment

Dr. Rod Berger talks with Dr. Stephen Zunes on activism, civil resistance, and Western Sahara storylines. This conversation explores how Dr. Stephen Zunes’ upbringing in a Christian pacifist, politically engaged household shaped his lifelong focus on human rights, international law, and nonviolent resistance. Host Dr. Rod Berger, editor at large at Fair Observer, and Zunes also discuss Western Sahara, Israel-Palestine, democracy, polarization, and why Zunes still believes large-scale civic action can change history.GuestDr. Stephen Zunes — Professor of politics and director of Middle Eastern Studies at the University of San Francisco, speaking about his background, scholarship, activism, and views on civil resistanceKey topicsIn this episode: Zunes traces his worldview to a Christian pacifist household shaped by civil rights activism, anti-Vietnam War protests, environmental concern, and early Palestinian solidarity.We discuss: How his parents’ backgrounds—one from a Greek immigrant line and one from a conservative Southern family—led to an unusual but deeply consistent social justice ethic.Zunes shares: How growing up in Chapel Hill and reading the newspaper as a child helped make political curiosity and international affairs feel natural.In this episode: His decision to move from organizing into academia came from realizing he was better as an intellectual than a movement organizer.We discuss: Why Western Sahara became a central focus for him as a test case for international law, self-determination, and opposition to territorial conquest.Zunes shares: His view that Western Sahara and Palestine are two important examples of foreign belligerent occupation that are often treated very differently in public discourse.We discuss: How he sees support for Western Sahara as potentially strengthening the pro-Palestinian movement by centering international law rather than sectarian argument.Zunes shares: His experience debating John Bolton at the Oxford Union on whether military force is an effective way to promote democracy, and why he argues that civil society and nonviolent action are usually more effective.We discuss: Why the United States and Britain should examine their own support for authoritarian regimes before advocating military intervention abroad.Zunes shares: His optimism rooted in historical examples, including civil rights, Vietnam, South Africa, and East Timor, where sustained pressure changed policy.We discuss: The role of polarization, which he sees as dangerous but also potentially transformative, depending on how people shape it.Zunes shares: Why he remains hopeful about younger generations, whom he sees as more open to socialism, social democracy, and critiques of militarism.Timestamps02:16 — Rod introduces the show and Stephen Zunes03:37 — Zunes’ academic background and family roots04:20 — A Christian pacifist household shaped by civil rights and anti-war politics07:16 — Parents’ unusual pro-Palestinian stance in the Deep South08:53 — Learning politics at the dinner table and from newspapers11:26 — Chapel Hill, Oberlin, and becoming a political science scholar13:35 — Why Western Sahara became a defining issue14:34 — Civil rights, Namibia, East Timor, and the logic of solidarity15:31 — Why Western Sahara matters for international law16:55 — Comparing Western Sahara, Palestine, and U.S. double standards19:17 — Why obscurity made Western Sahara a compelling cause21:47 — Activism, voice, and how scholarship enters public debate22:30 — The Oxford debate with John Bolton24:44 — Why civil society beats foreign military intervention26:33 — Why cynicism is hard to avoid in a militarized world28:15 — Movements that changed history from Vietnam to South Africa30:40 — Why these perspectives are becoming more mainstream31:25 — Concern about U.S. civic fragility and democratic decline33:25 — Why authoritarian systems can also produce skepticism and resistance35:20 — Polarization as a force that can produce reform or reaction39:07 — Grassroots voter mobilization and the importance of turnout40:12 — Final reflection on whether nonviolent struggle still wins41:20 — Why Zunes remains optimistic about the long term43:13 — Younger generations, social democracy, and anti-militarism44:10 — Closing thoughts on the value of debate and informed disagreementTOP INSIGHTSUniversal principles are stronger than issue-by-issue loyaltyJudge every occupation, annexation, or intervention by the same standard: international law. A consistent, principle-based approach is harder to dismiss as selective outrage and creates stronger coalitions across conflicts.Overlooked issues can offer meaningful opportunities for advocacyWestern Sahara’s relative obscurity allowed focused expertise and advocacy to develop. Importance is not always reflected by the amount of public attention an issue receives.Nonviolent movements create sustainable political changeCivil resistance is not merely symbolic. Organized citizens, durable networks, and sustained pressure can produce legitimacy and lasting policy change more effectively than military intervention.Polarization can lead to authoritarianism or reformPolarization is not inherently destructive. Its consequences depend on how social energy is organized and whether democratic institutions can channel conflict toward constructive change.Democracy depends on local participationDemocratic decline often begins with disengagement from local institutions such as school boards, city councils, and community organizations. Participation is a form of democratic maintenance.Historical memory can produce realistic hopeOptimism does not have to mean ignoring present challenges. Past movements—including civil rights, anti-war, anti-apartheid, and labor movements—show that organized pressure can change systems that once appeared permanent.Younger generations are questioning inherited political assumptionsYounger people are increasingly willing to challenge conventional ideas about capitalism, militarism, socialism, and foreign policy. Their skepticism may represent a broader shift in political expectations. Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sometimes the most important leadership shift starts with changing the song in your own head. Live from CultureCon 2026, Dr. Rod Berger sits down with Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer at VaynerX, USA Today bestselling author of “Be Yourself at Work”, and a pioneer of people-first leadership. Claude shares how a 93-day Outward Bound experience helped her find her voice, challenge the limiting beliefs she carried for years, and ultimately recognize the kind of leader she was meant to become. From building a culture rooted in empathy to taking accountability for how we show up, Claude explores why great leadership requires both heart and ownership. She also opens up about the trust that changed her career, the importance of knowing when you are not at your best, and why people should never have to shrink themselves to succeed at work. Additional Resources: Connect with Claude on LinkedIn Get Claude’s book “Be Yourself at Work” Learn more about Claude’s work Connect with Rod on LinkedIn Connect with Zach on LinkedIn Connect with Nick on LinkedIn Subscribe to CultureCon’s YouTube channel! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Learn more about CultureCon Key Takeaways: Change the story playing inside your own head. Empathy and accountability can exist at the same time. Great leaders coach people instead of rescuing them. Stop shrinking yourself to fit the workplace. Trust gives people permission to stand in their strengths. Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Show Notes In this episode of the Dr. Rod Berger Show, presented by Fair Observer, Rod sits down with sociocultural anthropologist Professor John Friedman to discuss his sudden dismissal from a university position, the broader crisis facing higher education, and why the humanities still matter more than ever. John shares the story of being let go during a shocking campus purge, what it felt like to lose a long-built academic home, and why he refused to return to the same classroom without first acknowledging the harm done. From there, the conversation expands into a wider examination of institutional priorities, neoliberal management, the rise of AI and engineering over the humanities, and the future of critical thinking in education. Rod and John also explore: Why higher education is becoming more transactional How universities are reshaping themselves around market demand The danger of losing humanities and social sciences Why education should be about liberation, not just workforce preparation The impact of social media and algorithms on individuality and community How anthropology helps us understand the many ways of being human John also reflects on his move into social media, the role of public anthropology, and why people need more exposure to disciplines that challenge how they think about the world. Key Topics Being fired from a university classroom The collapse of humanities programs The purpose of education Critical thinking and civic responsibility Individualism vs. collective society The future of universities and teaching Public anthropology and cultural understanding Notable Quotes “Ask big questions in small places.” “The cutting out of the humanities and the social sciences is essentially an attack on critical thinking.” “Education should be a form of liberation.” “There are many different ways to live in the world.” Guest Professor John Friedman Sociocultural anthropologist, public lecturer, and advocate for humanistic inquiry Connect with John Friedman Find him on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube as: @ProfessorJohnT.Friedman About the Dr. Rod Berger Show The Dr. Rod Berger Show explores timely ideas, culture, education, leadership, and the human stories shaping our world. Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Dr. Rod Berger Show is presented by Fair Observer. Understanding one's family history can provide deep insights into personal identity. The impact of historical events on family dynamics is profound. Symbolic objects, like watches, can carry significant emotional weight across generations. The stories of those who lived through wartime are invaluable and unique. Generational trauma can shape perspectives and experiences in profound ways. The importance of storytelling in preserving family legacies. Modern society often lacks the context of historical struggles. Rapid news cycles can hinder our ability to process information meaningfully. Personal connections to history can foster empathy and understanding. Martin's mother was a significant influence on his advocacy. Apartheid felt normal to those living under it. Education played a crucial role in challenging injustice. Activism in university led to significant changes. Moving to London brought a sense of freedom. Dangerous environments can be intoxicating for journalists. The responsibility of storytelling is paramount. Modern slavery still exists in Africa today. Personal experiences shape one's perspective on injustice. Advocacy for marginalized voices is essential. Summary In this conversation, Rod Berger and Martin Plaut navigate technical difficulties before delving into Plaut's rich family history, with a particular focus on his father's experiences as a refugee from Nazi Germany. They explore the significance of family legacies, the emotional weight of symbolic objects, and the contrasting experiences of past generations with the present day. The discussion highlights the importance of storytelling in understanding personal and collective histories, as well as the challenges of processing information in a fast-paced world. In this conversation, Martin Plaut shares his journey from growing up in apartheid South Africa to becoming a journalist and advocate for social justice. He reflects on the profound influence of his family, particularly his mother, on his values and his commitment to fighting injustice. The discussion delves into the normalization of apartheid, the role of education and activism in challenging systemic oppression, and the transition to journalism as a means of storytelling. Plaut emphasizes the importance of representing marginalized voices and highlights the ongoing issue of modern slavery in Africa, urging listeners to recognize and address these injustices.   Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Rod Berger sits down with Sebastian Schäffer, who wrote a book with his mentor arguing that the Balkans belong in Europe. Not eventually. Immediately. The mentor, former Austrian Vice-Chancellor Erhard Busek, died in March 2022, weeks after Russian tanks crossed into Ukraine and the argument the two of them had spent years making became the most urgent question on the continent. Schäffer is still making it. Born in Munich, he gave his career to somebody else's neighborhood. He directs the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe in Vienna, a think tank founded in 1953 and older than most of the European Union, and serves as Secretary General of the Danube Rectors' Conference, a network of more than sixty universities across the region. He founded SSC Europe in 2011 to run simulations and strategic foresight, which is also how he thinks: run the scenario forward, then ask what happens next. His own contribution to the field is a reversal. The Dilemma of Simultaneity described how post-Soviet states had to build democracy, markets, and nations all at once. Schäffer turned the mirror around and pointed it at Brussels, which now has to reform enlargement, reform itself, and become a real geopolitical power at the same time and under fire. In a July 2025 essay for Fair Observer, he wrote about an editor who asked him to stop using the word "disinformation" because it sounded too political. He refused, and called that kind of softening death by a thousand footnotes. What we get into: Why a man born in Munich built his life around the countries still waiting at Europe's door What "immediately" costs a person who has been saying it for fifteen years while institutions say "eventually" Why he treats a single word as worth fighting an editor over, and what he thinks gets lost when we let language go quiet Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Something feels off in 2026, and you already know it. Maybe you can't name it precisely, but there's a tilt to the world right now, a sense that the ground beneath familiar systems is shifting in ways that resist easy explanation. If you've caught yourself staring at headlines with a mix of dread and curiosity, wondering whether this stretch of uncertainty is just noise or something more structural, this conversation is for you. I sat down with Natasha Weber, the award-winning Australian astrologer known as Astro Tash, to explore a question that's been circling my mind for months: Can astrology offer a practical framework for navigating a period that feels genuinely unprecedented? Not vague mystical reassurance, not doom predictions, but something closer to pattern recognition and timing, a way to read the conditions and make grounded decisions about how to respond. Natasha brings over 25 years of study to this conversation, and what struck me most is the way she strips away the mystique without diminishing the substance. She describes astrology as "cosmic climate" or "astrological weather," and the analogy lands immediately. The planets don't make us do things. They set up conditions, and then we decide whether or not to carry the umbrella. That distinction between fate and agency runs through the entire episode, and it's the piece I think most people are hungry for right now. You don't want to be told what's going to happen to you. You want to understand the environment you're operating in so you can make sharper choices. We get into the specifics of what makes 2026 such a seismic year astrologically. Saturn and Neptune meeting at zero degrees Aries, the very starting point of the zodiac, for the first time in decades. Uranus is entering Gemini for the first time in 84 years. The return of Leo-Aquarius eclipses, which last cycled through during a period of significant political upheaval. Natasha walks through historical parallels with striking concreteness: the fall of the Berlin Wall during the last Saturn-Neptune conjunction, the collapse of the Romanov dynasty during the one before that. She's not drawing these connections loosely. She's using cycles the way a historian might, looking at what happened during the same planetary alignments in previous eras and asking what rhymes now. One of the most fascinating moments in our conversation came when Natasha described something deeply personal: looking at her own chart and not liking what she saw for a particular year. Rather than accepting it passively, she used her knowledge of solar return charts to physically relocate to Japan on her birthday, shifting the mathematical framework of her year ahead. That relocation placed her strongest planetary influences into the house of publishing, and that turned out to be the year she published her book with Penguin Random House. It's a small, vivid example of what agency looks like within this system. You're not rewriting the sky. You're choosing where to stand under it. We also spent time on the question that I think sits underneath everything right now: artificial intelligence. Natasha connects the acceleration of AI to Pluto's entry into Aquarius, a transit that won't complete until 2044. She frames this not as a prediction but as a description of the era we've entered, one defined by intelligence, technology, and the tension between cool logic and human compassion. The last time Pluto was in Aquarius, the American and French revolutions were reshaping the Western world, and the Industrial Revolution was beginning. The parallel isn't subtle. And the question she poses is worth sitting with: Are we using this technology as a tool, or are we handing our power over to it? What I keep coming back to is something Natasha said almost in passing, the phrase "as above, so below." It's ancient, but in this conversation, it felt urgent. We are all of us living through a transition between ages. The Age of Pisces, with its emphasis on religion, spirituality, and compassion, is giving way to the Age of Aquarius, with its emphasis on technology, intelligence, and collective humanity. These epochs last roughly two and a half thousand years. Most people who will live in the Aquarian age will simply know it as the way things are. We happen to be the ones standing at the threshold, which is disorienting and, if you hold it at the right angle, extraordinary. This episode is not about converting anyone into an astrology believer. It's about offering a different lens for a moment when the usual lenses feel insufficient. Natasha's insistence on pairing every difficult transit with a remedy, her refusal to deliver hard news without a pathway through it, reflects something I think we all need more of right now: honesty that doesn't abandon you, and frameworks that leave room for what you choose to do next. What questions are you asking about this period in your life? And what would it mean to stop waiting for certainty and start reading the weather instead? Check out Natasha's free birth chart service: https://www.astrotash.com/services/star-charts/ Learn more about Natasha: https://www.astrotash.com/ Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we explore how mental health, purpose, and human connection are evolving amid rapid technological and societal shifts. Jarrod Hoffman, a Memphis-based licensed professional counselor, shares insights into working with teens and families facing uncertainty, especially in the age of AI and a changing educational landscape. Key Topics Covered: The role of purpose and stability in mental health during unpredictable times The impact of AI on relationships, therapy, and youth development The metaphor of uphill and downhill riding as a reflection of life's challenges How connection, not just knowledge, drives meaningful change The influence of societal expectations on teens' mental health and career choices Navigating therapeutic work in a digital age with AI chatbots and virtual interactions Personal stories of resilience, rule-following, and the importance of authentic human connection Timestamps: 00:37 - Introduction: The season of exploring stories that matter   01:02 - The importance of diversity in conversations and understanding human complexity   01:28 - Jared Hoffman’s background: From youth ministry to clinical work   02:14 - The mental health overlap with physical endurance: Jared’s triathlon journey   03:23 - The inspiring story of a 91-year-old triathlete   04:21 - The human need for structure amid chaos   05:07 - How societal fear impacts long-term planning and purpose   06:20 - The metaphor of uphill and downhill in life and work challenges   07:27 - The changing landscape of careers and climbing the traditional ladder   07:55 - Anxiety and job security in the modern workplace   08:43 - The impact of AI and outsourcing knowledge to technology   09:47 - The importance of empathy and understanding in therapy   10:16 - Challenges and opportunities in the mental health field with AI integration   11:34 - Supporting youth in a world of increasing information and uncertainty   12:32 - The true driver of change: Connection over information   13:43 - The role of AI in therapy and potential risks for vulnerable populations   14:57 - Maintaining human connection in an AI-driven world   16:13 - The emotional effects of encouragement versus virtual affirmation   17:34 - The shifting expectations around education and career paths for teens   18:30 - Purposelessness and anxiety in young people faced with societal pressures   19:45 - The weight of self-identity amid rapid technological change   20:38 - Personal insights from working with teens and the value of authenticity   21:42 - Jarrod’s reflection: Learning about himself through working with youth   23:22 - How to connect with Jarrod Hoffman and access resources Resources & Links: Website: JarrodHoffman.com LinkedIn: Jarrod Hoffman This episode reminds us of the profound importance of authentic human connection in a digital age, encouraging us to embrace vulnerability and purpose as we navigate life's uphill and downhill moments. Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Navigating Voice, Trust, and Advocacy in a Divided World In this episode, Rod Berger sits down with Jim and Tiffany Drastic—creators of The Dangerous Ones & Eleven Films—to explore the journey of finding and using their voices amid societal chaos, personal trauma, and the ongoing fight for justice. Discover how authenticity, modulation, and community-building shape their impactful work. Key topics: The role of trauma in developing a resilient voice for activism The importance of humility and admitting errors in public discourse Strategies for modulating emotional responses to sustained activism How comedy and brevity enhance engagement and understanding The global impact and international audience of American political content Navigating personal sacrifices and moments of doubt in advocacy Building a community for shared experiences and collective resilience The idea of the "expiration" of activism and the importance of continuous effort How to organize and prioritize amidst overwhelming information The value of re-entry and forgiveness in political division and family relationships Timestamps: 00:31 - Embracing life's pivots and sharing diverse perspectives 01:15 - The importance of including marginalized voices 02:08 - Jim and Tiffany’s rise and viral success 03:00 - Finding your voice through trauma and activism 03:29 - Tiffany’s childhood experience with trauma 04:17 - The drive for accountability and justice 05:04 - Jim’s early influences and childhood activism 06:10 - Growing up with a voice and lifelong influences 07:23 - Reconnecting and launching impactful content 08:02 - Building authority and parental influence in voice formation 09:03 - The power of protest and boundary-testing as a youth 10:02 - Managing emotional crashes in activism 12:01 - The importance of realistic expectations in activism 13:20 - The significance of compartmentalization 14:12 - Celebrating small wins in political activism 15:23 - Effectiveness and persistence in social change 15:49 - Avoiding burnout through community and nature 17:14 - Keeping pace with rapid technological and political changes 17:53 - Organizing and organizing arguments in a fast-moving environment 18:47 - The flood of information and managing mental load 19:04 - Focusing on what matters most to sustain effort 20:22 - Recognizing ideological distractions and maintaining clarity 21:33 - The importance of hope and collective action 22:25 - Acknowledging mistakes and embracing humility 23:27 - The value of admitting errors and continuous learning 25:50 - The origins of viral content and learning from mistakes 26:46 - How leadership and humility can influence outcomes 27:44 - The challenge and reward of public accountability 30:17 - The personal cost of advocacy and moments of doubt 32:50 - Evolving relationships with audiences over time 33:42 - The power of community and shared struggles 36:45 - The global interest in American politics 37:00 - The interconnectedness of world issues and you. S. influence 39:23 - Bridging divides among friends, family, and communities 40:37 - The importance of grace and patience in reconciliation 44:47 - The possibility of societal awakening and collective healing 46:15 - The ongoing mission beyond political wins 47:38 - The humor and humanity in advocacy 49:19 - The value of storytelling in shaping societal narratives 50:11 - Connecting, collaborating, and community from grassroots to global 51:11 - A message of gratitude and hope for continued activism Resources & Links: The Dangerous Ones on YouTube Connect with Jim and Tiffany Drastic: Twitter Instagram Substack Articles Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

"From the Classroom to the C-Suite: Greta Jackson on Culture, Storytelling, and the Human Hum of Organizations" In this episode of the CultureCon Catalyst podcast, Dr. Rod Berger sits down with Greta Jackson, Employee Engagement and Culture Enrichment Director at Tegria, and a CultureCon Culture Catalyst. Greta's journey — from third-grade dreamer to middle school English teacher, high school AP Lit instructor, principal, recruiter, and now culture strategist — is a masterclass in following your instincts and letting storytelling lead the way. What we cover: The origin story: How Greta fought her calling to teach, found her way through retail and substitute teaching, and ultimately fell in love with "big toddlers" (aka high schoolers) Storytelling as leadership: Why Greta taught American Literature through the lives of authors — and how that same instinct for origin stories now drives her culture work at Tegria Climate vs. culture: The critical difference between the two, and why listening to the "hum" of an organization is essential for any culture leader The soft skills myth: Why Greta reframes "soft skills" as core skills — and how she's been teaching them since her students' desks were their first "offices" Cascading communication: Why pushing messages down the org chart is a game of telephone, and how "job alike" practice sessions help managers truly connect with their teams AI as a thought partner: How Greta uses AI (including Claude) to process ideas out loud, analyze her blind spots, and build backwards-design frameworks for culture initiatives Proactive culture diagnosis: How to tune into an organization's energy before problems surface — and what to do when the vibration feels off Feedback and values in action: Why values aren't posters on a wall, and how honest, real-time conversations are the only way to make them live Connect with Greta Jackson: LinkedIn: Search Greta Jackson, Employee Engagement & Culture Enrichment Director at Tegria CultureCon: culturecon.com About the Host: Dr. Rod Berger is a storyteller, author of The Narrative Edge, and Storyteller in Residence at CultureCon. Are you the author of your story — or a character in someone else's? Find out together. Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Power of Storytelling in Leadership: Insights from Dr. Marcus Conyers Discover how storytelling shapes leadership and innovation. Learn key insights from Dr. Marcus Conyers, founder of BrainSmart, on enhancing organizational effectiveness. In today’s fast-paced world, understanding the power of storytelling in leadership is crucial. How can narratives shape our leadership styles and foster innovation within organizations? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the insights shared by Dr. Marcus Conyers during his conversation with Dr. Rod Berger on "The Narrative Edge." You’ll discover how to leverage storytelling to create impactful connections and drive change in your organization. About Dr. Marcus Conyers Dr. Marcus Conyers is the founder and CEO of BrainSmart, a pioneering organization dedicated to enhancing innovation and productivity in various sectors through brain research. With over 30 years of experience, he has authored 20 books, including the bestseller "Positively Smarter," and has shared his expertise across 30 countries. His journey emphasizes the significance of applying brain science in practical settings, making him a credible voice in the field of leadership and education. The Role of Storytelling in Leadership Storytelling is not just a tool for entertainment; it’s a vital aspect of effective leadership. Here’s why it matters: Building Connections: Stories create emotional connections that facts alone cannot achieve. They help leaders resonate with their teams on a personal level. Fostering Innovation: Sharing stories of past successes and failures encourages a culture of learning and innovation. Leaders can inspire their teams to think creatively by illustrating how challenges were overcome through innovative thinking. Enhancing Communication: A well-told story can simplify complex ideas, making them more accessible to team members. This clarity can drive better understanding and alignment within teams. Key Insights from Dr. Conyers During the conversation, Dr. Conyers shared several key insights that illuminate the relationship between storytelling and leadership effectiveness: 1. The Kaleidoscope of Human Experience: Dr. Conyers highlighted that the human experience is rich and varied. By embracing diverse backgrounds and perspectives, leaders can craft more compelling narratives that reflect the complexity of their teams and the challenges they face. 2. Learning from the Past: He emphasized the importance of reflecting on past narratives to understand what drives success. Leaders should analyze previous experiences to identify patterns and insights that inform future strategies. 3. Creating a Culture of Exploration. Dr. Conyers encourages leaders to foster an environment where exploration and curiosity are valued. This involves encouraging team members to share their stories, insights, and lessons learned, which can lead to collective growth and innovation. Practical Strategies for Leaders To effectively harness the power of storytelling in your leadership approach, consider the following strategies: Share Personal Stories: Open up about your own experiences, including challenges and triumphs. This vulnerability can help build trust and rapport with your team. -Encourage Team Storytelling: Create opportunities for team members to share their own stories. This not only builds connections but also encourages a sense of belonging and collaboration. Use Stories to Communicate Vision: When articulating your organizational vision, frame it within a story. This makes the vision more relatable and inspires your team to work towards a common goal. Conclusion The power of storytelling in leadership cannot be overstated. By integrating narratives into your leadership style, you can foster deeper connections, drive innovation, and create a culture of exploration within your organization. As Dr. Conyers illustrates, every leader has the potential to shape their narrative and inspire others by sharing their story. So, what’s your story? Consider how you can leverage it to enhance your leadership effectiveness   Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A powerful conversation with the incomparable Tom Junod brought to you by Dr. Rod Berger. In the world of memoir writing, the question of identity often looms large. How we define ourselves, the names we carry, and the stories we tell shape our experiences and the narratives we create. In this post, we dive into the profound discussions that emerged from my recent conversation with Tom Junod, a celebrated writer whose memoir, *In the Days of My Youth, I Was Told What It Means to Be a Man', uncovers the complexities of identity through the lens of family, legacy, and storytelling. About Tom Junod Tom Junod is a senior writer for ESPN and has received numerous accolades, including an Emmy and the Dan Jenkins Medal for Excellence in Sports Writing. His previous work has appeared in esteemed publications such as GQ and Esquire, where his profile of Fred Rogers inspired the film *A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood*. In his memoir, Junod reflects on his upbringing and his father's influence, exploring how these experiences have shaped his voice as a writer. The Significance of Names and Identity One of the central themes we discussed was the power of names in shaping our identities. Junod shared his own journey with his name, transitioning from *Lou Genard* to *Tom Junod*. This change was not merely a matter of pronunciation but a reflection of his desire to carve out his own identity separate from his father's legacy. Junod explained how his father's strong presence at the family dinner table often left him feeling overshadowed. He recounts moments of internal struggle where he grappled with his father's expectations and the need to assert his individuality. It wasn't until Junod began writing about his childhood experiences that he found his narrative voice. A pivotal moment for him was recalling the sound of his father's ankles cracking as he got out of bed, a memory filled with love and fear that encapsulated their complex relationship. This moment of clarity allowed Junod to embrace his unique voice in his writing. The Writing Process: From Drafts to Final Product Junod's memoir was not without its challenges. He revealed that the initial draft of the book was a staggering 200,000 words—an overwhelming amount that ultimately led him to reevaluate his approach to storytelling. The process of cutting down his manuscript was painful, as it involved discarding many cherished words that did not serve the narrative's purpose. However, by focusing on the essence of his story, Junod distilled his experiences into a cohesive, impactful memoir. In discussing the importance of voice in memoir writing, Junod emphasized that it is the rhythm and music of one's narrative that resonates with readers. Many memoirs succeed because they convey a distinct voice that carries the emotional weight of the story. The Last Word: A Father's Influence A particularly poignant moment in our discussion revolved around the theme of "the last word" in the context of father-son dynamics. Junod reflected on how his father's dominant personality often left him feeling voiceless at the dinner table. This struggle for agency fueled Junod's desire to become a writer. The need to assert his voice and explore the secrets of his father's life became a driving force in his literary career. He explained that the memoir is not just about recounting memories but also about investigating his father's complexities and the impact on his own identity. Junod's writing captures the duality of his father's influence—both the admiration and the struggle for independence. His memoir becomes a space for exploring these emotions, allowing readers to connect with their own experiences of familial relationships. Tom Junod's memoir serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling in navigating our identities. By reflecting on his experiences, he invites us all to examine our own stories and the names we carry. For more insights on memoir writing and identity, consider exploring Junod's work and the profound lessons woven throughout his narrative.   Dr. Rod Berger is a keynote speaker, moderator, producer, author, and expert in strategic storytelling. Berger’s book, The Narrative Edge: Authentic Storytelling That Meets The Moment (Wiley), hits bookstores in late 2025. He draws on more than 4,000 interviews conducted worldwide for Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Fair Observer, including a cover story about former Virgin Entertainment co-founder Jason Felts, for Los Angeles Magazine, as well as various podcasts. He has captured the narratives of investors, CEOs, renowned entrepreneurs, bestselling authors, scholars, and cultural icons such as NBA legends Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley, as well as United Nations officials and Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar, while also exploring the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.Berger has met with the Crown Princess of Sweden, Pope Francis, United Nations officials, and NGO leaders, covering stories of water insecurity with WaterAid, the intergenerational refugee crisis faced by displaced Sudanese in Uganda, and the impacts of child marriage in Western Africa with the Le Korsa Foundation.Berger served as a guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management for nearly two decades, focusing on the power of storytelling in business.He has partnered with The Jim Henson Company to create a television show, The Ultimate GOAT, that combines his passion for distant lands and storytelling with culture, sports, and puppetry for family programming.Berger conducts moderated keynote events that blend storytelling with live, on-stage narratives featuring cultural icons such as Opal Lee, the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, and recognized as the “Grandmother” of Juneteenth. In 2023, Berger received the inaugural Pangea International Literacy Prize and delivered his TEDx Talk, “Story is Our Currency.” He lives in Franklin, Tennessee, with his wife and two children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.