The TrustMakers

Tom Wilson, Chair, President and CEO of Allstate, joins Edelman’s Richard Edelman to look at how trust in America is shifting from national institutions to local communities. Drawing on Allstate’s report, The Trust Tipping Point, and the Edelman Trust Barometer, Tom explains why neighbors and local networks inspire greater confidence than national leaders, and shares his thoughts on how businesses can step up to serve not only shareholders but society at large.

Zach Gottlieb, founder of Talk With Zach, joins Edelman’s Amanda Edelman to explore how Gen Z is redefining conversations around mental health, social connection, and trust. Zach shares how his platform empowers young people to speak openly about emotions and challenges, and reflects on the opportunities and risks of seeking advice on social media and from AI.

Rachel Janfaza, writer and founder of The Up and Up, joins Edelman’s Amanda Edelman to unpack how Gen Z is reshaping politics, culture, and the workplace. Rachel describes her influential theory of “Gen Z 1.0 vs. Gen Z 2.0,” exploring how social media, the COVID-19 pandemic, and political upheaval created two distinct sub-generations. She explains why young people feel both empowered and powerless, and how Gen Z’s demand for safety, security, and economic stability is shaping public trust.

Kelsey Russell, media literacy influencer and host of Kronikled, joins Edelman’s Brooks Miller to discuss Gen Z’s news consumption habits, what she values in brand partnerships, and why many people believe journalists purposely mislead them. Kelsey argues that journalists can rebuild trust by pulling back the curtain on how stories are created and being transparent about their sources.

Dr. Parag Khanna, global strategist and founder of AlphaGeo, joins Edelman’s Sat Dayal to explore how climate change, migration, and emerging technologies are redrawing the global map, and reshaping public trust. Parag breaks down his concept of “programmable geography,” and shares how data, design, and local adaptation can build resilience in an age of disruption. 

Cultural commentator and Creator Blakely Thornton joins Edelman’s Brooks Miller from Cannes Lions for a no-filter conversation on the evolution of influence and why consistency, humor, and honesty are his non-negotiables. Known for his Met Gala interviews and sharp takes on brand campaigns, Blakely shares how he carved out a trusted voice in a crowded space by staying unapologetically himself.

 Microsoft Consumer CMO Yusuf Mehdi and Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles join Edelman’s Smita Reddy from Cannes Lions to discuss how AI, authenticity, and Gen Z are reshaping brand trust. From product innovation to personal expression, they look at what it means to build influence around shared values and vibrant communities, and discuss differentiation at a time when attention is fragmented.

A.G. Sulzberger, Publisher of The New York Times, joins Richard Edelman at Cannes Lions for a conversation on the role of journalism in rebuilding trust. They discuss the global rise of misinformation, the decline of local news, and why independent reporting remains essential to democracy. A.G. reflects on how The Times is adapting to new formats while staying rooted in truth, empathy, and accountability, and shares what he feels is the most underexamined construct in modern media.

Louise McEwen, CMO of McLaren Racing, joins Edelman’s Jackie Cooper at Cannes Lions to discuss how her brand builds emotional connection with fans, drives cultural relevance, and balances heritage with innovation. She reflects on the importance of instilling trust through inclusive experiences and a fan-first mindset, while always honoring the brand’s racing legacy.

Doug Martin, CMO of General Mills, joins Edelman’s Amanda Edelman to discuss how brands can stay personal in a fragmented digital world. He shares how General Mills is shifting from mass messaging to individualized experiences and using data and empathy to meet consumers where they’re at, especially in everyday moments like dinnertime. Doug emphasizes the importance of knowing your brand’s role, staying curious, and delivering real joy without performative action.