Brandie Smith, the John and Adrienne Mars Director of the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, leads the panda program and champions conservation. She recounts the fascinating history of pandas as diplomatic gifts from China in the 1970s. Smith dives into the unique challenges of panda reproduction and the zoo's success in boosting populations. She reflects on her journey from aspiring doctor to zoo director, emphasizing the importance of genetic diversity and the global appeal of the panda cam in promoting conservation.

Wes Moore, the Governor of Maryland, shares insights into his political journey and leadership challenges. He downplays presidential aspirations while emphasizing cooperation with the Trump administration for Maryland's benefit. The conversation also highlights the urgent response to a major bridge collapse and the state's budget reforms aimed at economic growth. Moore reflects on personal resilience, tracing his path from personal loss to public service, showcasing initiatives to reduce crime and enhance healthcare access in Baltimore.

Roger Goodell, the NFL Commissioner since 2006, shares insights on the league’s international expansion and the potential addition of an 18th game to the regular season. He addresses fan concerns about private equity investments in teams, assuring that controlling stakes will remain restricted. Goodell also touches on the 'Taylor Swift effect' on the sport's popularity and the intricate planning involved in Super Bowl events. His experiences reflect the balancing act of navigating fame while ensuring the league's integrity and fairness.

Dave Ricks, CEO of Eli Lilly, leads the pharmaceutical giant known for its revolutionary anti-obesity drugs. In this insightful conversation, he reveals plans to explore how weight-loss medications might address addictive behaviors. Ricks also tackles the pressing issue of counterfeit drugs and discusses healthcare affordability, stressing that many families shy away from medical care due to costs. His personal journey from Indiana to leading innovation in healthcare highlights the importance of tackling health challenges with creativity and resolve.

Carla Hayden, the first female and only the 14th Librarian of Congress, shares her inspiring journey in promoting accessibility to the library's vast 178 million items. She discusses the library's evolution into a community hub in the digital age, emphasizing its vital role amidst misinformation. Hayden reflects on her leadership experiences and the significant push for diversity and literacy initiatives. Listen in as she highlights the future of libraries and the power of books, including the vibrant National Book Festival.

Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism, is at the forefront of transforming the city into a cultural hub. He discusses a $10 billion initiative to attract expatriates and boost tourism, highlighting iconic projects like the Louvre and the Guggenheim. Al Mubarak notes a surge in demand for luxury homes driven by foreign buyers, and emphasizes the positive impacts of immigration on the city’s growth and quality of life. His insights illuminate the strategic development and vibrant future of Abu Dhabi.

Cal Ripken Jr., a Baltimore Orioles legend and Hall of Fame player, shares insights from his iconic career and transition to business. He discusses the challenges of maintaining focus through 2,632 consecutive games and reflects on the evolution of baseball, including the impact of specialization. Ripken also highlights the importance of loyalty in Major League Baseball, contrasts experiences of small-market teams, and recounts emotional moments from pivotal career milestones that deepened his bond with fans.

Josh Harris, a billionaire private equity investor and founder of 26North Partners, discusses his impressive journey from co-founding Apollo Global Management to owning major sports franchises. He shares insights on the dynamics of private equity and the thrilling experience of owning teams like the 76ers and the Washington Commanders. Harris emphasizes the importance of community involvement and plans for a new stadium, while drawing parallels between the emotional highs of investment success and winning in sports.

Peter Orszag, an economist and former government official, now CEO of Lazard, shares his insights on navigating both Wall Street and Washington. He dives into the complexities of today’s M&A landscape, influenced by technology and regulations. Orszag discusses the critical role of geopolitical knowledge in financial decision-making and highlights the significance of effective leadership in the face of international tensions. He also reflects on the evolution of sustainability initiatives within finance and the impact of diverse teams on advisory success.

Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google and Alphabet, has been a transformative figure in tech since joining in 2004. He discusses his belief that AI is as revolutionary as fire and electricity, reshaping every industry. Pichai tackles Google's legal challenges amid antitrust lawsuits and shares insights on elevating cloud computing. He reflects on his journey from India to Silicon Valley and highlights the significance of innovation within large organizations, emphasizing the need for small, empowered teams to drive progress.