Épisodes

  • Episode 14: Frank Carone on How Compromise Could Save New York—and the Nation
    Oct 8 2025
    In this of Building Bridges: That Which Unites Us, Michael Hershman sits down with Frank Carone—founder and chairman of Oaktree Solutions, former chief of staff to Mayor Eric Adams, and bestselling author. In a particularly timely conversation, they discuss the strength of character shaped by growing up in New York City, maintaining civility through compromise, and the need to make voter registration easier to increase turnout and ensure that all voices are heard. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    38 min
  • Episode 13: Michele Risa on Purpose-Driven Leadership, Loneliness & Human Connection
    Sep 23 2025
    On this episode, Michael Hershman sits down with Michele Risa, CEO & Founder of Collaborative Solutions and a global leader in purpose-driven leadership. From building women’s business incubators in post-Soviet Russia to launching Universities United, Michele shares how storytelling, trust-building, and human-centric skills help students and communities combat loneliness and find meaning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    39 min
  • Episode 12: Rufus Edmisten on Watergate, Civility, and Restoring Trust in Democracy
    Sep 11 2025
    On this episode, Michael Hershman sits down with Rufus Edmisten, former North Carolina Attorney General, Secretary of State, and Deputy Chief Counsel to the Senate Watergate Committee. Rufus reflects on his journey from growing up in a log cabin to serving in historic roles that shaped American politics, including delivering the first congressional subpoena to a sitting president. Together, they discuss lessons from Watergate, the decline of civility in public life, and the urgent need to restore trust, civic education, and respect for institutions to ensure America’s democracy remains strong for generations to come. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    43 min
  • Episode 11: The Power of Lincoln’s Words on Democracy, Unity, and Civic Responsibility
    Aug 21 2025
    In this very special episode of Building Bridges: That Which Unites Us, Michael Hershman is joined in spirit and conversation by Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. Drawing on the enduring power of his words and leadership, they explore how the ideals of democracy, unity, and civic responsibility continue to shape America today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    43 min
  • Episode 10: Kathryn Wylde on Uniting NYC for a Competitive and Equitable Future
    Aug 7 2025
    In this episode of Building Bridges: That Which Unites Us, Michael Hershman sits down with Kathryn Wylde, President and CEO of the Partnership for New York City. As she prepares to retire next summer, Kathryn reflects on her decades-long career mobilizing private sector expertise to support and strengthen New York City’s economy. Together, they discuss the essential role of collaboration in building a future that is dynamic and equitable—and in ensuring the city remains globally competitive and connected to the people who call it home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    50 min
  • Episode 9: JT Batson on 2026 World Cup and Uniting The World Through Sport
    Jul 22 2025
    In this episode of Building Bridges with Michael Hershman, Michael sits down with JT Batson, CEO and Secretary General of U.S. Soccer, to discuss the power of sports in uniting communities and cultures. As the U.S. prepares to co-host the World's Biggest Soccer Tournament, JT shares his journey from tech to soccer leadership, the growing popularity of the sport, and the economic and social impact of the tournament. They explore initiatives like Soccer Forward, efforts to make the game more inclusive, and JT’s vision for the future of U.S. soccer—on and off the field. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    32 min
  • Episode 8: Comedy, Culture & NYC Grit: Colin Quinn on SNL, Broadway, and Humor’s Power
    Jul 9 2025
    In this episode of Building Bridges, host Michael Hershman is joined by acclaimed comedian and writer Colin Quinn for a dynamic conversation on comedy, culture, and the evolving role of humor in public discourse. From his early days on MTV’s Remote Control and Saturday Night Live to his critically acclaimed Broadway shows directed by Jerry Seinfeld and his latest YouTube special, Quinn reflects on a career shaped by authenticity and resilience. Together, they explore the influence of growing up in New York and the power of humor as a means of connection. The episode also features candid man-on-the-street interviews asking New Yorkers how humor helps them navigate difficult topics in today’s world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    20 min
  • Episode 7: The Future of College, Housing, and Work in America with Marc Norman, Associate Dean at NYU’s Schack Institute of Real Estate
    Jun 27 2025
    In this episode of Building Bridges: That Which Unites Us, Michael Hershman speaks with Marc Norman, Associate Dean at NYU’s Schack Institute of Real Estate, about the rising cost of college, New York City’s housing crisis, and the future of the job market. Drawing on decades of experience in urban development and housing equity, Dean Norman offers insights on expanding access to education and housing, the importance of school–industry partnerships, and how urban planning can help create stronger, more inclusive communities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    32 min