The Space In Between Podcast

The U.S. higher education sector is undergoing profound transformation — and not always by choice. At the intersection of political ideology, funding cuts, and rapidly shifting technologies, colleges and universities find themselves caught in a storm of scrutiny, resentment, and reinvention. From heated debates over diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to questions about the value of degrees and the impact of AI, higher ed is at a crossroads like never before.

In this timely episode, I sat down with the remarkable Ann Kirschner — entrepreneur, academic leader, innovator, and storyteller — to explore what’s really happening across the landscape of American higher education, and what can be done to bridge divides and find practical, creative ways for higher ed to provide value to all students regardless of economic background or identity. Ann, who has served in leadership roles at institutions like CUNY, ASU, and Hunter College, brings not only sharp insight but a deep personal connection to the American education story.

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The Space in Between isn’t about finding the middle — it’s about having the courage to stand in the tension between opposing views, where real growth and innovation happen. In a world that often pressures us to pick a side, this podcast explores what it means to stay present, curious, and open in the face of complexity. It’s a space that invites deep listening, humility, and the willingness to hold multiple truths at once. While it can be uncomfortable, it’s also where creativity thrives and where more humane, effective leadership is born. The goal is to create spaces — in life, work, and society — where nuance is welcomed and transformative ideas can take root.

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In this episode, host Leigh Morgan welcomes Matt McIlwain—managing director at Madrona Venture Group, respected civic leader in Seattle, and fellow board member at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center—for a thoughtful and deeply human conversation. Together, they explore questions at the intersection of tax policy, constructive dialogue, and the responsibilities we carry as citizens navigating a polarized time. While their views on policy may differ they both have a shared commitment to curiosity, listening, and mutual respect provided a model for how to talk through even the most emotive and controversial topics. One of those topics, tax policy, is often treated as a battleground. But in this exchange, it became a topic for learning.

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On today’s episode, I explore what it means to seek out fellow seekers in a time of deep division. Seekers are people who are curious, open-minded, and committed to learning—by instinct and by choice. If you’re listening to this podcast, chances are you’re a seeker too. I share a personal story about an unexpected and meaningful connection with my March 19th podcast guest, Lemon Price. Lemon is a fellow seeker who happens to hold very different political views than I do. She is an avid Trump supporter, and is thoughtful about why. Her story, and our dialogue,  reminded me that seekers come from all walks of life—and that meaningful connection across ideological lines is not only possible, it’s essential. Enjoy the episode!

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AI technologies promise to revolutionize societies, economies, and interpersonal connections by affecting how organizations and individuals interact. In this episode, host Leigh Morgan leads a compelling conversation with noted AI & tech investor Heather Redman on these critical topics. Heather gives an insightful overview of the current state of AI and its implications for business, society, and the risks and opportunities that are on the radar. The discussion also touches on interesting use-cases for AI that are seriously mind blowing.  Leigh and Heather also explore moral and ethical considerations of general AI and how – despite many risks to the contrary – AI tools can be used to bridge societal divides by making information more ubiquitous and accessible. 

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In an age where artificial intelligence is significantly transforming industries and our daily lives, the role of leadership in organizations is undergoing rapid transformation. In this episode of The Space In Between Podcast, host Leigh Morgan welcomes Christie Smith, a noted thought leader in leadership and organizational performance, to discuss the need for a new paradigm in leadership. Christie's new book, *Essential: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership*, challenges the conventions of twentieth-century leadership and presents a framework for a future where AI tools and technology touches all parts of our lives and work. The conversation goes deep, and together Leigh and Christie explore leader's impact not just in the workplace, but in helping build bridges in all walks of life.

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In this episode, I reflect on a few powerful moments I’ve experienced as host of The Space In Between. I also explore a core theme from Season I: how self-awareness is essential for both taking principled stands on the issues we care about and finding ways to bridge divides. A key concept is understanding our personal 'boiling points'—those moments when we’re so emotionally charged that our ability to engage empathetically with others is limited. Knowing our boiling points gives us agency to make choices about when, and how to dialogue with people who have different views.  Join me as I unpack this important topic.

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Today's episode is an exploration of empowerment, leadership, and the transformative power of intentionality in today’s hyper polarized world. Leigh's guest today is a truly inspirational leader - the incomparable Shelmina Abji.  Shelmina’s journey from humble beginnings in Tanzania to becoming a top executive at IBM serves as a beacon for aspiring leaders everywhere, as does her best-selling book Show Your Worth.  Leigh and Shelmina dive into the complexities of our dynamic world, and talk about how to stay in your ‘power quotient’ – a place of high agency and intention regardless of the circumstances that work, life, or elections bring. They also discuss how women at all stages of their careers can literally 'show their worth' and navigate the complexities of lingering gender disparities in the workplace. This is a fantastic episode – enjoy!  

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In a world increasingly divided by political and social ideologies, it's crucial to explore topics that might seem polarizing but are deeply impactful.  This week, we continue dialogue on a topic adjacent to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI): ‘Wokeness’.  Join host Leigh Morgan delves into these complex themes with guest Sally Kohn, former FOX News contributor, media coach, TED speaker and author of "The Opposite of Hate." Sally shares her take on wokeness, the new administration, structural dimensions of inequality and how, despite deep divisions in society, we can bridge divides and not surrender one's values.

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