When we face inner turmoil, some of us go on a downward spiral, shutting down all possibilities of finding inner peace, balance and happiness.

Is there an alternative way, a way where we turn such moments of vulnerability into unique strength? Could a time of depression translate into our greatest creative expression, in service of ourselves and our community? How does one build a billion dollar business while struggling with existential depression for three decades?

Listen to the remarkable personal transformation story of Melissa Bernstein, in an exclusive conversation with Prof. Hitendra Wadhwa on Intersections Podcast.

Melissa Bernstein is an entrepreneur, creative, and working mother of 6. As co-founder of the wildly successful toy company Melissa & Doug, she has spent the last 30 years helping children discover themselves, their passions, and their purpose. In 2020, after her own personal journey of self-discovery and acceptance, Melissa founded Lifelines. Through Lifelines, she is using her creativity and imagination to reinvent well-being products and experiences to help adults strengthen their resilience, stay grounded, and unlock their full potential. Melissa has also recently published her memoir, LifeLines: An Inspirational Journey from Profound Darkness to Radiant Light.

In this Intersections episode, Melissa reveals:

1. The source of our greatest creative expression, even in times of our greatest depression

2. What brings true meaning and purpose in life, and how to channel our inner turmoil into inner strength and happiness

3. And the key to forging a winning path in our entrepreneurial journey, even in the most unfavorable conditions