The Interview with Leslie Heaney

In Honor of Financial Literacy Month: A Special Re-ReleaseThis week, we’re re-releasing one of our most popular episodes of The Interview with Leslie — and it couldn’t be more timely.In “Girls Just Want To Have FUNDS”, Leslie sits down with Lacy Garcia, Founder and CEO of Willow, an award-winning platform that helps connect women and multigenerational consumers with financial advisors who truly understand them. Think of it like a matchmaking service — but for your financial future.Lacy launched Willow after navigating a divorce as a young mom, realizing firsthand how hard it was to find an advisor who could offer both financial guidance and personal support during a major life transition.In this episode, Leslie and Lacy dive into key financial literacy topics — from budgeting and emergency funds to 529 Plans and retirement investing. You’ll also hear tips on setting financial goals and how to find an advisor who’s the right fit for you.Whether you’re working toward your next money milestone or simply want to feel more empowered about your finances, this episode is a must-listen. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie.

In this episode, I had the distinct honor and pleasure to interview Jean Becker on her new book Character Matters: And Other Life Lessons from George H.W. Bush.I wanted to interview Jean as soon as I heard about Character Matters.I am writing this on election day knowing this episode will be released tomorrow, November 6, 2024.  No matter the outcome of the election, half of our country will be distressed and demoralized by its outcome. The example of the life and service of President Bush is a message that our seemingly divided country needs now more than ever.Jean Becker served as chief of staff for President George H.W. Bush for nearly twenty-five years. She’s the editor of Pearls of Wisdom by Barbara Bush and author of the New York Times bestseller The Man I Knew: The Amazing Story of George H.W. Bush’s Post Presidency. Her latest book, Character Matters: And Other Life Lessons from George H.W. Bush, was released in April 2024.In this episode, Jean tells hilarious, poignant, and compelling stories about President Bush. She shares anecdotes about how President Bush cast political differences aside, embraced bipartisanship and put his country before himself.  From calls with world leaders, to befriending his SNL impersonator Dana Carvey to enlisting George Clooney for a hospital opening because he loved his character on ER, Character Matters is a collection of essays from those who knew him best.  In today's political climate, all of us should embrace the life lessons and legacy of George H.W. Bush as an example of how to come together as Americans.If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram ⁠@TheInterviewWithLeslie.⁠ A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

This is one of my favorite podcast episodes to date! In this conversation, I dive into the "behind the music"—both literally and figuratively—of one of country music's rising stars and the world of professional sailing. Through it all, you’ll get to know two extraordinary individuals: Caroline Jones and Nick Dana.Caroline Jones is a talented singer-songwriter and the only female member of the Grammy-winning Zac Brown Band. Nick Dana, on the other hand, is a world-class professional sailor with an impressive career that includes competing in the Volvo Ocean Race and America's Cup. I’ve known Nick since he was a toddler (a fact that reveals my age), as I was close friends with his late older brother. It was such a joy to catch up with these two incredibly accomplished individuals—who also happen to be married! Caroline shares her journey into music, her creative process, and the inspirations behind her songwriting. We discuss her skyrocketing career, from touring with legends like Jimmy Buffett to performing in stadiums with the Zac Brown Band. She also talks about her latest single, No Tellin’, and her upcoming tour. Nick gives us a glimpse into his life as a professional sailor, detailing his path to success, the challenges of competing in events like the Volvo Ocean Race, and the thrill of sailing in the prestigious America’s Cup.We also explore their beautiful love story—how they were serendipitously set up (thanks to some well-placed meddling by Nick’s mom and sister!), fell in love just before the COVID-19 lockdowns, and how their relationship has transformed their lives and careers. Caroline even shares how she once vowed never to marry, only to find herself happily embracing both marriage and parenthood.This episode is packed with inspiration, laughter, and heartfelt moments. You won’t want to miss it! If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

You may remember my next guest, Tamir Goodman. Dubbed the “Jewish Jordan” by Sports Illustrated, Tamir made history as the first Orthodox Jewish player to play Division I and professional basketball without compromising his faith.Tamir’s story is extraordinary. He refused to play on Shabbat — from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday — a decision that made headlines and set him apart in the sports world. Despite this challenge, he achieved his dream of becoming a professional basketball player while overcoming significant obstacles, including severe dyslexia.Tamir exemplifies the power of faith, character, and resilience. Like all of us, his journey has been marked by setbacks and disappointments. Yet, his unwavering faith in God and belief in himself propelled him forward.In this episode, Tamir and I discuss how basketball serves as a metaphor for life — with its ups and downs, fouls, wins, and losses. We explore how he overcame tremendous obstacles: navigating dyslexia, facing prejudice for being observant, and enduring professional setbacks. Through it all, he has built a life filled with faith, purpose, family, love, and professional success.We also delve into his inspiring children’s book, Live Your Dream: The Story of a Jewish Basketball All-Star. The book highlights his journey with dyslexia and how basketball became a tool for empowering others. Tamir continues to inspire through his work with young athletes, showing them how to turn challenges into strengths.It’s rare to meet someone as extraordinary and inspirational as Tamir Goodman. Trust me — you’ll want to meet him too. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

In today's episode, I am thrilled to welcome Jenna Bush Hager, American news personality, author, and journalist. Jenna is the host of Today with Jenna & Friends, the fourth hour of NBC's morning news program. Jenna is the creator of the Read with Jenna Book Club; she has also launched a publishing imprint, Thousand Voices, a joint venture with Random House Publishing House supporting emerging writers. She is also the founder of her own production company. Jenna is a force!Jenna and I sit down to talk about her latest book and the third book she has co-authored with her twin sister Barbara Bush entitled, "I Loved You First". This is not the first time the Bush sisters have written a book together, but this is the first time they have written a children's book that celebrates the bond between parent and child. In this episode, Jenna and I talk about why she and Barbara decided to write this book, the power of sisterhood and female friendships, what it is like to host the 4th hour of Today without her dear friend and former co-host Hoda Kotb, the incredible work Jenna is doing through Read with Jenna and Thousand Voices and last but certainly not least - our mutual love of karaoke! I enjoyed every minute of my conversation with Jenna – it's an episode you won't want to miss! If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

In today's episode, I am so thrilled to share my conversation with author, activist, and storyteller, Susan Lieu.Susan is a multi-hyphenated artist whose work has captivated audiences nationwide. Her award-winning solo show, 140 LBS: How Beauty Killed My Mother, evolved into her debut memoir, The Manicurist’s Daughter. This emotionally raw memoir was Apple’s Book of the Month and has been featured in The New York Times and NPR. Through her storytelling, Susan explores themes of grief, intergenerational trauma, identity, and resilience.In The Manicurist’s Daughter, Susan reflects on her life as the daughter of Vietnamese immigrants, her mother’s tragic death from a botched tummy tuck when she was just 11 years old, and her journey to uncover truths about her family and herself. Her story is both heartbreaking and empowering, touching on the complex relationships immigrant women have with body image and beauty standards.In this episode, Susan and I delve into her family’s incredible journey from Vietnamese refugees to American business owners. We discuss what it was like for her to grow up navigating two cultures, the challenges of confronting her mother’s death, and the broader implications of societal pressures on women—especially immigrant women. Susan’s story is one of strength, vulnerability, and empowerment. It is equal parts poignant, funny, and inspirational—a conversation you won’t want to miss. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

Following the devastating fires in California, I kept hearing story after story of Pacific Palisades residents having been dropped by their insurance company just a few months before the deadly fire. The same thing happened this past fall in Florida – Floridians couldn’t afford their increased premiums, so when Hurricane Milton hit – they had no coverage. In fact, Florida insurance rates have gotten so high that people are beginning to leave the state - insurance premiums, in some cases, surpassing their mortgage payments. Insurance companies also get away with underpaying or slow-paying the insured… leaving people helpless and hopeless.Thankfully, there are people out there like my next guest, Chip Merlin, Founder and President of the Merlin Law Group. Chip has dedicated his practice to representing and advocating for the insured in disputes with their insurance companies nationwide.Chip has been called the “Babe Ruth of Hurricane lawyers” and “Master of Disaster” for his nationwide catastrophe work in helping policyholders after Hurricane Katrina. The Florida Association of Public Adjusters awarded him a Lifetime Achievement Award for his advocacy on behalf of policyholders. He is on the Board of Directors of United Policyholders, has been a guest commentator on CNN and Fox News, and is also past Chair of the Insurance Bad Faith Litigation Group of the American Association of Justice. In this episode, Chip and I discuss the state of the insurance crisis in the US, from California to Florida to NY, and what we, the insured, can do to protect ourselves from insurance companies' malfeasance, and what our state governments should do to protect the insured over the insurers.   To protect your property and your family, this is an episode you will not want to miss. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

Today in the US, close to 70% of all students are below proficiency in math and reading, and close to 90% of low-income students are below proficiency. With an overwhelming majority of our students graduating below proficiency in all academic subjects, the United States is in the middle of an educational crisis.  Thankfully my next guest Dr. Kimberly Nix Berens is working to address this crisis.  Dr. Berens is the author of Blind Spots: Why students fail…and the science that can save them. She is also the Founder of Fit Learning.  Fit Learning is a powerful system of instruction based in behavioral science and the Technology of Teaching, which has transformed the learning abilities of thousands of children worldwide. For more than 20 years, her system of instruction has produced one year’s worth of academic growth in only 40 hours of training. Dr. Berens has helped grow Fit Learning to an organization with more than 30 locations worldwide. In this episode, I talk with Dr. Berens about the state of the US education system today and about the science that shows how children learn and how our education system could have better outcomes.  We talk about her learning instruction method and how with the right instruction, a child that have been labeled as having learning differences or ADHD, may likely be a child who is just being taught subjects in the wrong way.  This conversation was so helpful for me as a parent – it is a must listen for every parent who wants to learn about how their kids should learn and about what we can do to support our kids who may learn differently. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday. ------This episode is brought to you by The Scout Guide. To learn more about the Scout Guide and how to become a franchisee visit franchise.thescoutguide.com and mention The Interview with Leslie Heaney!

It is an honor and a privilege to introduce my next two guests, James Patterson and Tim Malloy. James Patterson is one of the most successful authors of all time, having sold over 425 million books. He is perhaps best known for his Alex Cross series, which has been adapted into films such as Kiss the Girls and Along Came a Spider. In addition to his fiction, Patterson has collaborated on New York Times bestsellers with notable figures, including Bill Clinton, Dolly Parton, and Viola Davis. Recently, he has ventured into nonfiction and co-authored Filthy Rich alongside Tim Malloy, which explores the life of convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Tim Malloy is a seven-time Emmy Award winner and a veteran reporter with extensive experience in local and network television. He has worked as an investigative reporter, documentary filmmaker, and author. Malloy and Patterson are friends and neighbors in Palm Beach and have collaborated on various projects, including a documentary that highlights underserved communities in Florida. They both appeared in the Netflix documentary based on their bestselling book, Filthy Rich. Their latest collaboration, American Heroes, pays tribute to some of the greatest heroes in the United States Armed Forces. American Heroes emphasizes the courage, bravery, character, and patriotism of recipients of the three most significant military awards: The Medal of Honor, The Silver Star, and the Distinguished Service Cross. In this episode, Patterson, Malloy, and I discuss their incredible book American Heroes, their past collaborations on Filthy Rich, how they began their careers, and why these inspirational stories about real American heroes are vital for us to hear.Patterson and Malloy are not only brilliant but also hilarious. It was a joy and privilege to sit down with them both. I am very excited for you to listen!

In honor of President’s Day this past Monday, we are re-releasing this incredible episode about the women who made Teddy Roosevelt. In this episode, Leslie sits down with Ed O’Keefe — an award-winning TV producer, reporter, and author. While as a Harvard Kennedy School Fellow, O’Keefe stumbled upon some unpublished letters between Theodore Roosevelt and two of the most important women in his life: his daughter Alice and his sister Bamie. As a lifelong admirer of Roosevelt, Ed delved into the influence these relationships had on Roosevelt and his rise to the Presidency in his debut novel, “The Loves of Theodore Roosevelt – The Women Who Created a President”.Ed and Leslie talk about Roosevelt’s incredible life and legacy and the women in his life that gave its shape and meaning, they explore Roosevelt’s legacy and the incredible museum that is being built in his honor in North Dakota led by Ed as the new CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation. For history lovers, this is an episode you don’t want to miss! If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.Tune in next week when Leslie is joined by bestselling author, James Patterson, and Quinnipiac Poll Analyst, Timothy Malloy, as they discuss their new book “American Heroes”.

It turns out that many celebrities, politicians, and CEOs look to astrology before making any plans – they consult their astrologer before a political race, before accepting a role in a movie, or before they decide on an acquisition.Before a financial advisor, spouse, or therapist – they call their astrologer – and not just any astrologer - but they call my next guest - astrologer to the stars, Rosie Cutter.Looking to the celestial as a guide is nothing new for the rich and famous. JP Morgan is famous for saying that millionaires don’t need astrologers; billionaires do, and Nancy Regan was famous for consulting her astrologer before all of President Regan’s important decisions.Cutter knows first hand how important guidance can be and has cultivated trusted relationships with those in and out of the spotlight.In this episode, Rosie breaks down the difference between tarot reading, palm reading, and astrology, how she came to this incredible career, and what the stars are saying for all of us this year…I had a reading with Rosie to get ready for this conversation, and let me say – she was spot on. This lady knows what she is talking about!If you are ever curious about having a reading done or want to know what this year has in store, this episode is for you! If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram@TheInterviewWithLeslie.A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

Today, it is estimated that approximately 3 percent of incarcerated people in the United States are innocent. Thankfully, there are Innocence Projects across the country who are dedicated to investigating and litigating claims of innocence. Without them, these innocent people would have no path to exoneration. In this episode, I sit down with Jason Gichner, the Executive Director of the Tennessee Innocent Project. Since its founding in 2019, the Tennessee Innocence Project has won 9 exonerations, representing more than 230 years collectively served for crimes these people did not commit. The Tennessee Innocence Project’s 9 exonerations also represent 25% of all known exonerations in the history of Tennessee and they have achieved all of this in just 5 years.  In our conversation, Jason and I talk about the factors that lead to innocent people being convicted. We discuss specific cases of their clients like Ricky Lee Webb, who served a 47-year sentence (the 4th longest in the history of the U.S.) for a murder he did not commit. Jason and I talk about how the Tennessee Innocence Project does its work and what new laws and policies could be put into effect in both Tennessee and nationwide to help prevent innocent people from being incarcerated.  The Innocence Project is such an important organization. As Jason said in our conversation, this is a political issue – no one wants innocent people behind bars. I hope you will find this episode inspiring, and you’ll want to learn more about what we all can do to help support their important work. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

Eleni Giannopoulos is the woman behind the great Eleni’s cookies.  Driven by a desire to start her own company along with a love of baking and an old family recipe, Eleni launched Eleni’s back in the mid-90s.  Since then, she has gone on to create a storied, nationally recognized cookie brand.  CBS News couldn’t have put it any better, “Eleni’s is an international favorite sought after by celebrities and cookie lovers everywhere.”   Eleni’s cookies can be found in grocery and specialty stores throughout the country and enjoys a celebrity cult following from everyone to Oprah to Drew Barrymore to the Clooneys. Eleni’s is known too for its custom baking projects.   She has done everything from cookies for the White House, to a replica of Elton John’s country house for his birthday, to specialty cookies for every HBO hit from Game of Thrones to The Sopranos.  In this conversation, Eleni and I talk about how she got started and the challenges and excitement of being a women entrepreneur.  She shares all her amazing stories from the almost thirty years she has been creating art “from scratch.”   This episode is an inspiring story of how one woman, with the support of her family and friends, can go on to build an incredible brand and career doing what she loves. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

It’s hard to believe that it was 50 years ago this year that Saturday Night Live made its debut on television. A four-part docuseries is coming out this week on Peacock, SNL 50: Beyond Saturday Night, which will give fans a look inside the show's making. Who knew that The Interview was so timely? I am doing the same in this week's episode. It was such a delight to sit down with 7-time Emmy Winner, Lindsay Shookus. For over twenty years, Lindsay worked in and became head of the talent department at SNL. Not only did she have one of the most exciting and, as she would say, ‘pinch me’ careers that exist in entertainment (managing, booking, and discovering the talent for one of the greatest and longest-running comedy shows ever on television), but she learned so many important life lessons along the way. After leaving SNL in 2023, Lindsay has gone on to speak to thousands of people about the wisdom she gained during her time on the show and the importance of cultivating relationships with people during your career. Lindsay is also the Co-Founder of ‘Women Work F***ing Hard’ – a group connecting and boosting women. In this conversation, Lindsay gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the production of SNL. She shares so many stories and experiences from her time there: from getting Snickers bars and vodka for the amazing Betty White to discovering Kristen Wiig on a tape, to getting a boost to her career from Alec Baldwin.   Lindsay and I also talked about what it’s like to work in that high-energy, 24/7 environment and incorporate that type of all-encompassing work with being a mother. We explore the important lessons learned from her time on SNL and how she approaches her life and work today. I loved taping this episode with Lindsay – she is down to earth, hilarious, and incredibly wise. I know you’ll love listening to her amazing stories about life behind the scenes at SNL and the lessons she learned along the way. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

Colorectal cancer, the disease that claimed the life of "Black Panther" actor Chadwick Boseman at age 43, was once considered an “old person’s” illness. It no longer is. The National Cancer Institute says early-onset colorectal cancer is now the No. 1 cause of cancer death in people 20 to 49 years old. It gets worse. Studies show that cancer that develops in younger people tends to be more aggressive. So, why are Gen Xers, millennials, and Gen Zers developing a disease they never would have dreamed of getting not that long ago? To help answer this question, I am so honored to be joined by Dr. Andrea Cercek, a board-certified medical oncologist who specializes in the treatment of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Cercek is also the founder and co-director of the Center for Young Onset Colorectal and Gastrointestinal Cancer – this clinic – dedicated to serving the specific needs of people under 50 who have these cancers, is the first of its kind in the world. In this episode, I talk with Dr. Cercek about the possible causes for this rise in colorectal cancers, what we can do to reduce our risk of developing colorectal cancer, and about the exciting treatment options that are being developed at MSK to cure colorectal cancer without the often-crippling side effects of radiation, chemo, and surgery.  One of the beneficiaries of Dr. Cercek’s research and treatment is her former patient, Kelly, who also join us in this conversation. Kelly was just 29 with an 8-month-old baby when she was-diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Thanks to the immunotherapy treatment that Dr. Cercek’s team discovered, Kelly is now cancer-free, did not have to have chemo, radiation, or surgery, and has gone on to live a full and healthy life. To learn everything you need to know about colorectal cancer, and to hear one woman’s inspiring story, this episode is for you! If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

An African safari trip is on every person’s bucket list. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Because of the cost, difficulties of travel, and the variety of places to visit, a trip to Africa is one that we all want to make sure that we get right.  So many of us know we want to see incredible animals and breathtaking landscapes – but we have no idea where to start! Thankfully, that is where &Three Collective comes in. &Three was started by three friends who met as expats in London. With one now based in the US, one in London, and one in Sydney - they are bound by their obsession with Africa. They became a travel company dedicated to Africa - in search of experiences that are wild, luxurious, private and unique. Along their travels over the years, &Three met Africans who, by birthright, were the true experts in the region, exposing them to experiences that you cannot research or find on your own. &Three was born from three women’s dream of offering these same incredible experiences to others. With &Three, travelers embark upon a collaborative planning process. No two itineraries are alike; everything is custom to the traveler and their needs and desires. I was so lucky (and, of course, was making my own safari plans as we spoke) to speak to one of these wonderful women magicians behind &Three…Claudia Church. In this episode, Claudia and I talk about the dos and don’ts of safari planning, where and when to start planning, the most amazing places to visit, and the awe-inspiring experiences one can have on the African continent…. I learned so much from my conversation with Claudia, and for any of you who have always dreamed of going on safari or want to go on a trip planned by these incredible women, this episode is for you! If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

In this episode, I sit down with Nicholas Fox Weber, art historian and Executive Director of the Josef and Anni Albers Foundation. He is also the author of fifteen books, among them iBauhaus, Le Corbusier, Balthus: A Biography, and Patron Saints. Weber is a gradu­ate of Colum­bia Col­lege (B.A., major in Art History), Yale Uni­ver­sity (M.A., Art History; Fellowship in American Art), and the University of Groningen (PhD).  He lives in Connecticut, Paris, and Ireland. Despite all his professional accomplishments, Nick’s heart is focused on his humanitarian work in Senegal. Nick is the founder of Le Korsa, a not-for-profit organization in Senegal. I admire Nick so much. We all see things in life that we wish we could change or people that we’d like to help – yet we are all so busy with our own lives that it is the rare among us that does something – Nick is one of those people. After a trip to Senegal with a Parisian doctor about twenty years ago, Nick saw communities that needed access to health care, education, and basic amenities. Ever since, Nick has worked tirelessly to support clinics, schools, and other life-saving initiatives in Senegal through Le Korsa.     My son John and I visited Senegal in February of 2023, and we witnessed Nick’s incredible work firsthand. Every bit of resources directed toward Le Korsa make such an impact. Donations to Le Korsa go directly to projects in Senegal, from digging wells to buying academic supplies to helping patients receive medical care. In this conversation, Nick and I discuss his work in Senegal, how and why he got started, and about his spectacular and purposeful life as an art historian, author, and humanitarian. This episode is just the kind of inspiration that is so fitting this holiday season! To learn more about Le Korsa, visit https://www.aflk.org/ If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

Today, Leslie sits down with journalist, lawyer, political commentator, and writer Gordon G. Chang about his latest book, “Plan Red: China's Project to Destroy America”. Described by The New Yorker as a “longtime uber hawk on China”, Chang’s latest thesis outlines what he believes is an existential threat from China towards the U.S. and the current world order. Leslie talks with Gordon about his current perspective on U.S.-China relations and his recommendations on what the U.S. can do today to avert what he believes are China’s nefarious plans toward the U.S. and the Western World. A graduate of Cornell and Cornell Law School, Chang lived in mainland China for nearly two decades as a Partner and Counsel for Baker McKenzie and Paul Weiss. Chang has given briefings at the National Intelligence Council, the Central Intelligence Agency, the U.S. State Department, and the U.S. Department of Defense. He has testified before the U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs. His writings on China and North Korea have appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The International Herald Tribune, and National Review, among other publications. Chang has also appeared as a guest and commentator on CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, CNBC, and Bloomberg Television, as well as The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. In this riveting episode, Leslie discusses Chang’s compelling perspective. For anyone interested in U.S.-China relations – an extremely relevant and important topic today – this episode is for you! If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

Today Leslie sits down with Preston Konrad and Lisa Manice - Co-creators of Preston Lane – a new luxury home care company.  Preston Konrad is a lifestyle expert, creative director and television personality based out of New York City. He spent his early career as a creative director and marketing genius working for storied brands like Ralph Lauren, Belstaff and American Eagle Outfitters. Preston started his own marketing and consulting business for companies about twelve years ago. When Preston is not offering style tips to his almost 1 million Instagram followers, Preston can be regularly seen on The Today Show, Access Hollywood, Good Morning America and more. Lisa Manice is the other half of this juggernaut duo and brings decades of marketing genius and business successes to the table. Lisa is a visionary business leader and expert in forging win-win partnerships that accelerate growth for global companies, private equity firms, and celebrities. Prior to joining forces with Preston Konrad, Lisa served as an executive of Belstaff, Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger and Tiger Chark. Preston and Lisa saw a gap in the marketplace with high end home care goods at an affordable price, and instead of developing this idea for another company (they have been launching and marketing brands on behalf of clients for decades) - they decided to launch their own line for the first time. Preston Lane’s products boasts all natural ingredients, and beautiful packaging at affordable prices. Its entire line of hand soap, dish soap, countertop sprays and candles grace every home both with beautiful design and gorgeous scents that are safe for you and your family. They are the perfect gift for everyone this holiday season! Preston Lane was launched just this past summer and in that short time, their products are lining the shelves at Nordstroms, they just opened a pop-up store at Hudson Yard and have announced an incredible partnership with Centric Brands. Preston Lane is on its way to becoming everyone’s answer to elevated home care. This episode is for all of you budding entrepreneurs out there or all of us who have fantasized about starting their own company. In it, Leslie speaks with these brilliant and hilarious partners, Preston and Lisa, about their inspirations and gathers their expert advice on dos and don’ts for starting and marketing a products company. For a master class on what it takes to launch a successful company, this episode is for you! If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

In the aftermath of the horrific attack by Hamas on the people of Israel on October 7th, I and many others were shocked to witness not a clear and staunch condemnation of terrorism, but an explosion of ugly antisemitic sentiment and protests.  These attacks extended to Jewish thought leaders and authors, many of whom had speaking engagements and book deals cancelled. Jewish owned bookstores and publishing houses were boycotted. Author, podcaster, and founder of Zibby Media, Zibby Owens responded by speaking out and taking action. Zibby reached out to fellow Jewish authors to ask them to write essays about their experiences after October 7th. Over 100 Jewish authors and advocates responded, and the result is this amazing book edited by Zibby entitled, On Being Jewish Now. All proceeds from On Being Jewish Now benefit Artists Against Antisemitism of which Zibby is also a cofounder. In today’s episode, I speak with 5 of these courageous contributors: Lisa Barr, author of the bestselling Women on Fire and The Goddess of Warsaw,  Judy Batalion, bestselling author of The Untold Story of Women Resistance Fighters in Hitler’s Ghettos which has been optioned by Steven Spielberg, Alyssa Rosenheck a celebrated interiors photographer who has been recognized by Architectural Digest as one of the top photographers in the country in addition to being a writer, author and advocate, David Kaufman a writer, editor and columnist for The New York Post, and last but certainly not least, Nicola Kraus – bestselling author of The Nanny Diaries among several bestselling works. In this conversation, we talk about the antisemitism these authors and advocates have faced since October 7th, their essays in the book, what it feels like to be Jewish in this moment, what they are doing to combat antisemitism and hate and what we should all be doing to support our Jewish friends and neighbors. I admire guests Lisa, Judy, Alyssa, Nicola and David so much for all that they are doing, Zibby for putting this important book together and everyone who is both a contributor to this book and standing up against Antisemitism in ways big and small.