The Reaching Higher Podcast

Today’s guest is someone who truly embodies what it means to reach higher—Chef Aaron Sanchez. I met Chef Aaron Sanchez about 15 years ago at his friend's restaurant in New Orleans. My family and I had discovered him on the Food Network's show, Chopped back in 2009 and he was one of our favorites.Over the years, we kept in touch and he was gracious enough to be a guest on my previous What2Know (which morphed into the Real Chemistry pod). I was reminded of what a talented, humble but still competitive chef he was on HBO/Max's Wildcard Kitchen this year and couldn't resist reaching out to see if he'd join me once again on the Reaching Higher Podcast.During our engaging conversation, he talks about starting life as a mischievous kid who found structure and purpose in the kitchen and his journey to becoming one of the most respected voices in food today.Chef Aaron’s journey is rooted in mentorship, humility, and heart. Inspired early on by his mother, his grandmother and the legendary Chef Paul Prudhomme, Aaron learned that cooking isn’t just about flavor—it’s about discipline, culture, and life lessons. In addition to Chopped, you may have also seen him on shows like MasterChef, Next Iron Chef, Heat Seekers, Chef vs City, and Taco Trip. Most importantly we dive into his founding of the Chef Aaron Sanchez Impact Fund, how he picks his candidates and why he sees mentoring them as so critically important.Show links* Impact Fund: https://www.aaronsanchezimpactfund.com/* Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ChefAaronSanchez/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefaaronsanchez* Hiking My Feelings: https://hikingmyfeelings.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Aaron Strout sits down with Alaina Percival, co‑founder of Women Who Code to explore her journey from global brand management at companies like Puma and Versace to building one of the world’s most influential communities for women in tech.During the conversation, Alaina shares how teaching herself to code sparked a mission that ultimately supported women across 147 countries before Women Who Code transitioned operations amid 2023–2024 tech layoffs. Now a venture partner at Valor Ventures, she discusses investing in B2B AI and SaaS startups across the U.S. South, the coming wealth transfer to women, and how AI will reshape—not erase—jobs. The conversation closes with reflections on focus, leadership, and embracing reinvention.Show Links* Women Who Code: https://www.womenwhocode.com* Valor Ventures: https://www.valor.vc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week I did a thing. I launched a book I've been working on for the last 10 months. Hell, you might say I've been working on it for the last 30+ years. It's a codification of all the things I've learned over the course of my life, starting with my parents and marching up to my last boss, mentor and good friend, Jim Weiss.Since both the book: Wired for Purpose and the Reaching Higher Podcast overlap in terms of their goals, I thought what better way to cross streams than to let this week's podcast be about the book. And rather than me telling the story, I did what any smart marketer would do and I uploaded the manuscript to Google's Notebook LM and turned it into a 20 minute podcast. I think Notebook LM did a bang up job. Let me know what you think?Show LinksBuy the book (paperback/Kindle) on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GSH4QV4Y/ref=zg_bsnr_g_2679_d_sccl_20/000-0000000-0000000 Learn more about the book: https://getwiredforpurpose.com Book blog (plan is to post weekly): https://getwiredforpurpose.com/blog/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Reaching Higher, host Aaron Strout sits down with Dr. James McKowen, a clinical psychologist and addiction specialist at Mass General, to explore the evolving mental health challenges facing today’s youth. Dr. McKowen shares his unconventional journey from marine biology to youth addiction research, shaped by personal loss and deep scientific curiosity. Together, they unpack the misunderstood realities of youth addiction, the rise of cannabis dependency, and how climate anxiety is reshaping an entire generation’s emotional landscape. The conversation offers practical tools, hopeful insights, and a compassionate roadmap for supporting teens in an increasingly complex world.Show links:* Climate | Health | Resilience: https://www.climatehealthresilience.com/* Change is Simple: https://www.changeissimple.org/* Gardeners Question Time podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gardeners-question-time/id325945259* Alice Coltrane: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0oKYiTD5CdNbrofRvM1dIr?autoplay_ok=1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Reaching Higher Podcast, Aaron Strout sits down with legendary futurist Faith Popcorn for a mind‑bending conversation about cocooning, ethical consumerism, AI agents, corporate “troublemaking,” and the rapidly shifting social landscape. Faith unpacks how she predicts the far future with 95% accuracy, why bots will soon shop on our behalf, and how women are poised to reshape the global economy. From business insights to societal transformation, this episode challenges assumptions and inspires listeners to think boldly about what’s next.Show LinksFaith's website: https://faithpopcorn.com/Her current luxury interest: https://loveluxury.co.uk/SXSW session on March 13: https://schedule.sxsw.com/events/PP1162575Aaron's book publisher: https://captainofbooks.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on the Reaching Higher podcast, we're joined by someone whose life story is as extraordinary as his talent, comedian, actor, storyteller, and Oakland native, Don Reed. Don's journey spans two radically different worlds, from a deeply religious upbringing to the chaotic vibrancy of his father's street-level hustle, ultimately shaping a performer with unmatched empathy, range, and heart.He went from navigating moral extremes in East Oakland to becoming a nationally recognized comic, a master storyteller, and a thousand episode veteran of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Today we'll explore Don's upbringing, his creative inspiration, the power of authentic storytelling, and the impact he's making through Elevate Oakland. Don Reed is a for us and you're about to hear why.Show LinksElevate Oakland - https://www.elevateoakland.org/Redwood Nights: Storytelling Under the Stars - https://redwoodnightslive.com/IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0715394/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's guest is not only a dear friend, but also someone who has spent her career standing at the intersection of health, economics, technology, and humanity. That’s right, I’m talking about Jane Sarasohn Kahn who is a renowned health economist, trend weaver, author, and global educator whose voice has shaped how we think about healthcare in the modern era.From launching her influential blog Health Populi—now home to more than 3,000 deeply researched posts—to advising organizations across the U.S. and Europe, Jane has been a leading force in making healthcare more equitable, data driven, and compassionate. Her work on health citizenship, retail health, and the home as the new health hub continues to push the industry forward. Jane brings insight, empathy, and a gift for connecting the dots like few others can.Show links:Health Populi blog: https://www.healthpopuli.com/Jane's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janesarasohnkahn/Health Consuming + Health Citizenship books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jane-Sarasohn-Kahn/author/B07QLGVXH4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode we’re joined by actor and advocate Tyler Ritter, whose path has been anything but ordinary.The son of beloved comedian John Ritter, Tyler forged his own journey—stepping away from Hollywood after his father’s passing to teach English in Argentina, where he immersed himself in a cooperative community and met his future wife. That time abroad reshaped his understanding of purpose and ultimately reignited his passion for acting, leading to standout roles in The McCarthys, Painkiller, and beyond.Tyler is also a dedicated voice for the John Ritter Foundation, helping raise awareness of aortic disease. His story blends resilience, curiosity, service, and creativity—and we’re thrilled to dive in.Show LinksJohn Ritter Foundation - https://johnritterfoundation.org/ Freeze HD - https://hdsa.org/freeze-hd/ Pauley Perrette (Tyler's "sister" on NCIS) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pauley_Perrette Tyler on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/atylerritter/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, host Aaron Strout interviews Amy Webb, a quantitative futurist, who discusses her unique role in advising Fortune 100 CEOs and global leaders on future trends. They explore the importance of grounding narratives in data, the challenges of communicating foresight effectively, and the evolution of her initiative, Spark Camp. Amy also shares insights on emerging trends in computing and reflects on her experiences with influential figures and her love for music.Show Links* Amy's TED Talk - https://www.ted.com/talks/amy_webb_how_i_hacked_online_dating* Amy's books on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B008J35QIG* LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amywebb/* 2025 Tech Trends Report - https://ftsg.com/trends/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Reaching Higher, Gary Vaynerchuk reflects on his journey from a Belarusian immigrant to a globally recognized entrepreneur. He discusses how a scarcity‑filled yet love‑rich childhood shaped his grit, curiosity, and drive to build. Gary shares why he left Wine Library to create VaynerMedia, his belief that leaders must embrace AI rather than resist it, and how transparency—through projects like DailyVee—builds trust and opportunity.During this episode, Gary also dives into his charitable commitments, including support for Pencils of Promise and his $10M pledge to Charity: Water, emphasizing education and clean water as foundations for human potential. The conversation blends ambition, empathy, and Gary’s signature no‑nonsense mindset.Show linksPencils of Promise: https://pencilsofpromise.org/Charity Water: https://www.charitywater.org/DailyVee: https://garyvaynerchuk.com/topics/dailyvee/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Dr. Vanessa Kerry discusses her journey in global health, influenced by her early experiences in countries like Vietnam, Uganda, and Rwanda. She emphasizes the importance of addressing health inequities and the need for a robust healthcare workforce. As the co-founder of Seed Global Health, she shares insights on training healthcare workers and the organization's mission to improve health systems. Dr. Kerry also highlights the intersection of climate change and health, her role as the WHO Special Envoy for Climate Change and Health, and the importance of viewing health as an investment rather than a cost. Throughout the conversation, she reflects on her family values, leadership style, and the challenges of balancing her professional and personal life.Show Links* Her mother's book on mental health - https://www.amazon.com/You-Are-Not-Alone-Experience/dp/0060969776* Seed Global Health - https://seedglobalhealth.org/* Seed Global on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/seedglobalhealth/* Dr. Vanessa Kerry on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/vbkerry/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Reaching Higher podcast, Dr. Uché Blackstock discusses her journey in healthcare, inspired by her mother, and her advocacy for health equity. She highlights the importance of community engagement, the impact of historical policies like the Flexner Report, and the need for systemic changes to address health disparities. Dr. Blackstock also emphasizes the financial imperative of health equity, the role of AI in healthcare, and the significance of maternal health policies. Her work through Advancing Health Equity aims to bridge the gap between national initiatives and local community needs, ensuring that everyone has access to quality care.Show LinksDr. Blackstock's website: https://ucheblackstock.com/Articles on Time: https://time.com/author/uche-blackstock/Legacy book: https://www.amazon.com/Legacy-Physician-Reckons-Racism-Medicine/dp/0593491289Flexner Report: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flexner_ReportInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ucheblackstockmd/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A walk back through season one highlighting key moments in our conversations. Here's a quick guide:Actor Adrian Grenier -- speaking about shifting from a global focus to hyper local when it comes to his social do-goodingNews Anchor, Wendy Tokuda -- highlighting why some of the 17 years old from her non-profit, Students Rising Above impressed her the mostDr. Joseph Wu, former President of the AHA and head of Stanford's Cardiology Lab -- his advice to President Trump on why STEM is so importantLiana Guzman, CEO of FOLX Health -- talks about the future of healthcare and why it's so important to connect mind, body and communityAl Roker of the Today Show -- Al shares why John Lewis is the famous person he was so impressed with based on his optimism and hope for AmericaU.S. Senate candidate, Mallory McMorrow -- recounts her now famous speech on the MI Senate floor and the advice her mom gave her after the speechRolling Stones keyboardist, Chuck Leavell -- shares a few tips on what everyone can do to help improve our environmentDr. Bayo Winchell-Curry, trailblazer in healthcare advocacy -- Dr. Bayo stresses the importance of taking a few seconds to focus on the ONE positive thing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this introspective conversation, digital pioneer, John Battelle reflects on his journey from co-founding Wired Magazine to navigating the dot com boom with The Industry Standard. John discusses the importance of community building through events like the Web2 Summit and NewCo, and shares insights on transitioning to a life-driven approach. Battelle also highlights the creation of DOC, a community focused on medical integrity, and his ongoing connection to academia. The discussion culminates in a thought-provoking exploration of generative AI and its potential societal impact.Show LinksJohn's website and blog - https://battellemedia.com/DOC site - https://doc.health Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Maimah Karmo shares her extraordinary journey from surviving multiple adversities, including being struck by lightning, held at gunpoint and battling breast cancer, to founding the Tiger Lily Foundation. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, community support, and empowering women, particularly those who are underrepresented in healthcare. Maimah reflects on her experiences, including a transformative appearance on Oprah Winfrey's show, and discusses the recent achievements of her foundation, including a significant grant from the Melinda Gates Foundation. The conversation highlights the power of resilience, purpose, and the impact of advocacy in the realm of women's health.Show LinksTigerlily Foundation -- https://tigerlilyfoundation.orgMaimah's clothes line -- https://slimthickclothing.com/Maimah on Instagram -- https://www.instagram.com/maimahkarmo/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to this episode of Reaching Higher, featuring former Patriots guard and three-time Super Bowl champion Joe Andruzzi. In this powerful conversation, Joe shares his journey from the NFL gridiron to an even tougher battle—his fight against non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which ended his playing career.He discusses his path to becoming a true champion both on and off the field. Joe opens up about his battle with cancer and his eventual recovery, a life-altering experience that inspired him and his wife, Jen, to found the Joe Andruzzi Foundation (JAF) in 2008. We delve into the Foundation’s mission of providing financial assistance and support to cancer patients and their families, easing their day-to-day struggles so they can focus on their treatment.Listen in to hear Joe's perspective on resilience, the importance of paying it forward, and how his family’s spirit guided him through his toughest moments. His story is a testament to turning personal struggles into a mission of hope and help for thousands of others.Show links: Foundation - https://joeandruzzifoundation.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Liana Guzman, CEO of FOLX Health, discusses the vital work her organization does for the LGBTQIA+ community, the importance of representation, and her personal journey through various leadership roles. She emphasizes the need for inclusivity, the impact of societal changes on the community, and the significance of health innovation. Liana also shares her experiences with philanthropy, cultural identity, and the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, while encouraging allies to support the community actively.Key takeaways:Inclusivity is crucial as the community is diverse and not a monolith. Support from allies is essential during turbulent times. Health innovation is key to improving lives in marginalized communities.Show links:The Pink Agenda: https://thepinkagenda.org GLAAD: https://glaad.org Poet Andrea Gibson: https://andreagibson.org TV Show, The L Word: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0330251 Her SubStack on Right, Righteousness and Effectiveness: https://futurerx.substack.com/p/right-righteousness-and-effectiveness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Dr. Judith Joseph MD shares her journey from aspiring neurosurgeon to psychiatrist, emphasizing the importance of understanding hidden depression and the pathways to reclaiming joy. She introduces the Five V's framework for happiness, discusses the impact of social media on self-esteem, and highlights the mental health challenges associated with menopause. Dr. Joseph's insights provide valuable tools for navigating emotional health in today's world.Show linksDr. Judith's book - https://www.amazon.com/High-Functioning-Overcome-Depression-Reclaim/dp/0316577294Definition of Anhedonia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AnhedoniaThe Vault Podcast with Dr. Judith - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-vault-with-dr-judith/id1705492235Menopause Masterclass with Halle Berry - https://www.masterclass.com/classes/the-magic-of-menopause Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This conversation explores the evolution of cancer care, focusing on long-term patient relationships and the changing nature of suffering in chronic illness. Dr. Arif Kamal of the American Cancer Society shares insights from his experience with patients, highlighting advancements in treatment and the emotional journey of both patients and caregivers. Dr. Selin Karmaz, CEO of MassiveBio talks about the state of clinical trials and AI and how they are impacting patient care and Jena Quinn, CEO of Perfecting Peds discusses specific needs for pediatric oncology patients, particularly when it comes to their families and caregivers.Key takeawaysCancer care has evolved significantly over the years.Long-term relationships with patients can lead to unexpected postive outcomes.Healthcare providers must adapt to the emotional needs of patients.The role of hope is crucial in cancer treatment.Understanding patient experiences can improve care.Building trust with patients enhances their treatment journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 2025 season has featured a roster of high-profile and inspiring guests. Among the most popular interviews were conversations with Craigslist founder Craig Newmark, Grammy-nominated singer Aloe Blacc, U.S. Senate candidate, Mallory McMorrow and Rolling Stones keyboardist Chuck Leavell. Newmark discussed his mission to fund trustworthy journalism and protect against cyber threats through his philanthropic work. Aloe Blacc shared his journey from consultant to musician and his commitment to using his music for social good. Senator McMorrow talked about her now famous speech from the MI state senate floor that led to the writing of her book, Hate Won't Win and Leavell spoke about his long music career and his passion for forestry and conservation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.