What if the real reason for starting—and still running—a hit podcast after 1,160 episodes is something the host has never admitted out loud?

In this special solo milestone episode, Lou Diamond pulls back the curtain on Thrive LouD, revealing the surprising truth about why the show began, how it’s unexpectedly transformed him, and why connection is both oxygen and necessity in today’s world. With humor, honesty, and wisdom, Lou Diamond shares lessons learned from countless remarkable guests, the secret impact on his own life, and why listeners like you are the heartbeat of the show.

Whether you’ve tuned in since episode one or just arrived, this candid reflection about thriving, failing, adapting, and connecting will leave you inspired to keep reaching for more.

Episode Overview:

00:00 - Inspiring introduction and premise of Thrive Loud

00:26 - Lou Diamond breaks the fourth wall: Why is he solo today?

00:52 - The real, unpolished reason the show exists

01:34 - How the show started and evolved from Lou Diamond’s own network

02:31 - Running out of contacts and what happened next

03:04 - How every guest leaves an imprint and changes the host

03:53 - Key lessons learned about resilience, curiosity, joy, and failure

04:37 - Listeners, guests, and the powerful impact of honest conversation

05:37 - How the show restores faith in people’s drive to connect and thrive

06:39 - Why connection is not a luxury, but oxygen—and the show’s transformative journey

07:14 - The experiment in human connection that shaped a decade

08:03 - Why Thrive Loud will keep going: the next guest, the next story

08:41 - Thanking the community—the real reason the podcast endures

09:10 - Outro and how to stay connected with Thrive Loud

AI on Trial: Exploring Legal, Ethical, and Human Impacts with Dr. Jill Schiefelbein

What if your next AI chat could be held responsible for murder?

In this eye-opening episode of Thrive Loud, Lou Diamond welcomes AI strategist and communication expert Dr. Jill Schiefelbein to unpack one of the most controversial lawsuits in recent memory: a claim that ChatGPT was a co-conspirator in a deadly real-world crime. But as shocking as that sounds, Dr. Jill Schiefelbein brings logic, insight, and a positive outlook to the table, revealing how these high-profile cases could make our digital future both safer and more empowering for us all.

Listen in as they discuss:

• The reality behind lawsuit headlines, AI responsibility, and common sense in the courtroom
• The dangers of overregulation and why limiting access to AI could widen the digital divide
• Why most anxiety about AI isn’t actually about technology, but about timeless human fears—and how to overcome them
• The power and pitfalls of trusting AI (hello, hallucinated research papers and lemon juice bank robbers!)
• How AI can save time, enhance experiences, and drive real human connection—if you know how to use it

This episode is a must-hear for anyone who wants the facts (not just the headlines) on AI, legal liability, and how to thrive in a rapidly-changing world.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Intro & welcome

00:25 Introducing Dr. Jill Schiefelbein

01:38 Why this episode is urgent

02:12 The ChatGPT co-conspirator lawsuit explained

03:09 Setting a human lens on AI

05:00 The 3 key issues everyone should know about AI and liability

07:40 Terms, conditions & user responsibility

09:40 Guardrails, monitoring, and privacy versus protection

12:43 Is AI an active or passive intermediary?

15:15 Anthropomorphism and the law

16:09 Potential implications & product development parallels

18:06 Transparency, monitoring, and privacy concerns

21:54 Getting real about AI’s positive uses

22:09 Legal research (and AI hallucinations)

23:07 Why we over-trust tech: Dunning-Kruger, lemon juice, and being human

29:16 Why blaming AI misses the real anxieties

32:08 Overregulation and the risk to democratizing AI

34:55 Practical ways to lessen AI anxiety

38:21 How to connect with Dr. Jill Schiefelbein

40:51 Fun street speed round

41:54 Close

What if your favorite sports broadcaster, late-night host, and even a former president all showed up for a speed round—on the same podcast?

In this episode of Thrive LouD, master impressionist and comedian Josh Rosen joins Lou Diamond for an energetic and hilarious conversation that blurs the line between sports, pop culture, and satire. Josh Rosen reveals how his observational skills sparked his passion for impressions, talks about his social media creative process, and even drops spot-on renditions of Marv Albert, Skip Bayless, Stephen A. Smith, Woody Allen, Larry David, and Donald Trump—sometimes back-to-back! Plus, hear about his favorite influences, meeting the personalities he impersonates, the behind-the-scenes of social media content, and what’s next for his comedic career.

Whether you're a sports fanatic, comedy lover, or just need a good laugh, this episode is sure to entertain and surprise.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Episode intro & Josh Rosen joins the show01:16 Josh Rosen on discovering comedy and impressions02:17 Influences from childhood: sports broadcasters and routines03:27 Becoming self-aware as an impressionist04:18 The intersection of sports, pop culture, and virality06:13 Impressionist idols and SNL influences08:05 Comedy material: building funny AND accurate impressions09:37 Social media and content creation behind-the-scenes11:05 Live impressions: Marv Albert, Skip Bayless, Stephen A. Smith, Woody Allen, Larry David, Donald Trump14:47 The Speakeasy Pub Crawl speed round18:17 Favorite impressions & meeting Nick Wright19:42 New voices and impressions in progress20:26 Where to find Josh Rosen & closing thoughts

What if Wall Street’s real secret isn’t a trading algorithm, but a giant network of relationships powered by genuine human connection?

In this episode of Thrive LouD, Lou Diamond sits down with Glenn Schorr , Evercore’s Senior Managing Director and host of "Evercore’s Flow of Funds," to unpack the rapid-fire world of financial research analysis and how trust and humanity win in a high-stakes, data-driven industry.

Discover how Glenn Schorr pivoted into the financial services arena, why relationships are the bedrock of serious market insight, and how AI and technology are reshaping the work of top analysts without replacing their essential human touch. Plus, hear behind-the-scenes stories from his podcast, strategies for staying ahead in an industry where information moves faster than ever, and the happy accident that makes creating content so rewarding.

Whether you're intrigued by the human side of finance or curious about how top analysts navigate today’s hyper-connected landscape, this episode delivers both insight and inspiration.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Introduction to Glenn Schorr and episode kickoff

01:05 Glenn Schorr shares his unique start in financial research

02:45 Evolution of his career and choosing financial services

03:53 The day-to-day reality and complexity of being a research analyst

05:45 How tech, data, and AI are transforming the industry

09:42 The irreplaceable power of relationships in financial services

12:47 Inside "Flow of Funds"—Glenn Schorr 's approach to content and audio

15:08 Asking the right questions and extracting deep industry insights

17:34 Surprising moments and memorable guests from his show

20:29 The fulfilling (and unexpected) rewards of creating content

23:27 Where to connect with Glenn Schorr and find his work

24:12 Fun Street—movies, food, music, and card counting confessions

29:51 Lou Diamond's wrap-up and final thoughts

Applicable current disclosures regarding the companies discussed in this video are available at the offices of Evercore ISI: 55 East 52nd Street, New York, NY 10055, and at the following site: [evercoreisi.mediasterling.com/disclosure⁠](http://evercoreisi.mediasterling.com/disclosure⁠)

What if the secret to thriving as a woman in business is realizing—surprisingly—it’s actually not that serious?

This episode of Thrive LouD shatters the myth that empowerment must be stiff and somber, and instead takes you inside the vibrant universe of "It's Not That Serious," the women’s empowerment platform founded by former tech executive, model, jazz singer, and community builder Carrie Hunter.

Join Lou Diamond as he dives deep with Carrie Hunter on how audacity, emotional intelligence, and a dash of jazz improvisation can revolutionize women’s leadership and entrepreneurial journeys. Discover how Carrie Hunter pivoted from a male-dominated tech world into creating an uplifting global community; why being bold can be your superpower; and how embracing vulnerability can forge powerful connections.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 - Introduction and Carrie Hunter’s journey03:46 - What women can learn from men: the power of audacity04:57 - Women’s innate advantage: emotional intelligence05:52 - Taking “It’s Not That Serious” from idea to thriving business08:00 - All about the platform: merch, partners, community, travel & WIP highlights12:15 - The jazz/entrepreneur connection15:27 - Launching the "Carrie, It’s Not That Serious" podcast18:26 - The unexpected gifts of building this community19:48 - Rapid-fire Fun Street: movies, food, travel, music, and more34:05 - Closing thoughts and inspiration

What if the secret to law firm success isn’t found in a glossy ad or prestigious client list, but in something much more powerful—authentic relationships and a strategic embrace of change?

In this episode of Thrive LouD, Lou Diamond sits down with Deborah Farone, the go-to expert in law firm marketing and author of "Breaking Ground: How Successful Women Lawyers Develop Thriving Practices."

Together, they break down the myth that lawyers don’t—or shouldn’t—market themselves, revealing how the best firms are now leveraging individual strengths, cultivating niche expertise, and building lasting client relationships to truly stand out. Deborah Farone shares candid stories from top women lawyers, practical steps to develop authentic marketing skills, and even discusses how emerging technology like AI is reshaping the playing field—not as a threat, but as an enormous opportunity.

This inspiring conversation is packed with insights for anyone in professional services, especially those navigating the fast-evolving world of legal marketing. Expect actionable advice, memorable anecdotes, and a fresh perspective on how to thrive by being both strategic and unapologetically real.

Episode Overview

00:00 Meet Deborah Farone and the world of law firm marketing01:49 How marketing and law merged for Deborah Farone03:06 Distinguishing law firms & the power of personal reputation05:07 Overcoming lawyer resistance to marketing07:00 Bespoke marketing strategies in big law10:11 The inspiration behind "Breaking Ground"12:23 Gifts & lessons from sharing women lawyers’ stories14:42 Practical tips for authentic business development15:10 Lessons from failure and the impact of culture16:38 AI’s disruption: threat or opportunity for professional services?21:01 Where to find Deborah Farone and her books22:13 Fun Street: movies, music, food, and passions beyond law26:24 Harnessing AI for business development and daily productivity28:29 Closing thoughts and thanks

What if the biggest obstacle to winning negotiations isn’t your opponent—but your own reluctance to have tough conversations?

In this episode of Thrive LouD, Lou Diamond sits down with business strategist and negotiation expert Jonathan B. Smith—author of "Fight Less, Win More"—to debunk the myths about negotiation, decision-making, and what it really takes for teams to thrive.

You'll discover why most business problems stem from avoiding critical conversations, and how negotiation skills aren't just for closing deals—they're essential for everyday life, leadership, and even family dynamics. Jonathan B. Smith shares personal stories, unconventional negotiation scenarios, and key lessons from training with Chris Voss and the Black Swan Group.

Plus, get actionable tips on building a personal board of directors and the number one thing that makes or breaks any negotiation.

Episode Overview:

00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest01:23 Jonathan B. Smith's entrepreneurial background02:24 What is the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)?03:22 The most common problem in organizations today04:03 Genesis of "Fight Less, Win More" and working with Chris Voss05:25 Redefining negotiation and the power of listening06:42 Surprising ways negotiation skills improve everyday relationships07:39 The real-world wins and gifts from publishing the book08:45 Is negotiation always about fighting?09:41 Mastering emotional triggers and negotiation self-awareness11:09 The importance of coaches and building a personal support team12:05 Where to find Jonathan B. Smith online13:00 Big goals for spreading negotiation skills globally13:56 Fun Street: Movies, music, food, and more16:12 Where in the world Jonathan B. Smith would love to be16:25 Closing thoughts and gratitude

What if the next big revolution in making the world better isn’t in technology, but in bringing passionate people together to spark transformation?

Host Lou Diamond dives deep with Andrea Bartzen, the visionary founder of Global Passion Projects, uncovering how curated, multidimensional events are uniting world-changers from every corner—think tanks, innovators, philanthropists, and investors—to tackle humanity’s greatest challenges.

Discover the origins of Andrea’s mission rooted in a family legacy of healing and transformation, learn how her events blend health, technology, and spiritual abundance, and get a taste of the movement that’s prioritizing health over wealth, collective empowerment over competition, and unity over division. Andrea also reveals the unique approach behind her global gatherings, and why understanding heritage, optimizing humanity, and uniting both feminine and masculine energies are key themes driving real, sustainable change.

Don’t miss this look at how Global Passion Projects is building a better world—one passionate connector at a time.

Timestamped Overview:00:00 Introduction and podcast purpose00:50 Lou welcomes Andrea Bartzen and introduces the Global Passion Projects01:52 Andrea shares her background and family legacy of healing03:41 The unique approach and business model behind Global Passion Projects05:19 How events are curated and the importance of meaningful experiences07:01 Emphasizing heredity, honoring the past, and future themes08:55 Empowerment, unification, and balancing masculine/feminine energy10:19 Global reach and Andrea’s international perspective11:36 Where to learn more about Global Passion Projects13:41 Andrea’s current passion: optimizing humanity in a changing world14:44 Episode wrap-up and final thoughts from Lou and Andrea

What if your greatest heartbreak became your ultimate source of power—and purpose?

In this episode of Thrive Loud, bestselling author, speaker, and certified wellness coach Jessica Moyer joins Lou Diamond to share how devastating loss led her to a life centered around health, wellness, and purposeful living. From losing her infant son and her father, to rebuilding herself and guiding others through grief, identity shifts, and health transformations, Jess reveals how “real” wellness isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a formula for reclaiming your strength and energy, no matter where you start.

Listeners will learn the secrets behind her R.E.A.L. Wellness approach (Realistic, Resilient, Energy, Action, Love), get debunked on hormone health myths, hear why prioritizing self-care is non-negotiable, and even catch personal insights—like her comfort food cravings and the power of belief over the noise of naysayers. Jess’s journey reminds us that thriving isn’t about avoiding pain, but transforming it into your life’s greatest contribution.

Timestamps Overview:00:00 - Welcome & episode intro01:08 - Jess Moyer’s journey: heartbreak to purpose02:21 - Purposeful living & wellness as a foundation03:55 - The R.E.A.L. Wellness framework explained05:27 - Hormone health, misconceptions, and advocacy08:00 - Becoming a bestselling author & sharing the REAL framework09:34 - Giving and receiving gifts through content creation10:40 - The audience’s biggest aha moment11:17 - Staying on track: Jess’s self-care rituals12:02 - “She believed she could, so she did”—the sign behind Jess12:36 - Where to find Jess online & her book13:18 - Fun Street: movies, music, food, and activities17:11 - Dream travel destination18:14 - Closing thoughts & gratitude

What if the leaders we all admire—those seemingly unstoppable CEOs and visionaries—are actually more isolated and vulnerable than anyone imagines?

Lou Diamond sits down with Carmen Leiser, organizational psychologist and leader at the Movi Collective, to reveal why the mask of confidence so many leaders wear can be both powerful and deeply exhausting—and why removing it just might transform leadership for the better.

Together, they break down the paradox of leadership performance, discuss the rise of peer-driven psychological safety, and share actionable insights on how leaders can foster genuine connection, personal growth, and resilience in themselves and their teams. Carmen also takes us inside the Movi Collective: a global community redefining what it means to network, support, and grow—both professionally and personally.

Listeners will discover:

• The hidden toll of leadership “performance” (03:27)
• How vulnerability, when balanced, creates unstoppable teams (04:58)
• What makes Movi Collective radically different from traditional “networking” groups (09:10)
• The life-changing impact of peer “nucleus” groups for high performers (15:32)
• Carmen’s personal journey, favorite energizers, and the small practices that keep leaders thriving—even on tough days
• 
  

Episode Timestamp Overview:

• 00:25 – Introduction to Carmen Leiser & global leadership paradox
• 03:27 – Why leaders feel pressure to “perform” and the cost
• 04:58 – The power (and limits) of vulnerability in leadership
• 07:06 – Creating genuine psychological safety with peers
• 08:56 – Inside the Movi Collective and its unique impact
• 15:32 – Life-changing “nucleus” groups & stories from the field
• 19:02 – Carmen’s thriving strategies & team support
• 21:00 – Fun Street: Techno jams, pizza, volunteering, and more

Tune in for a refreshingly honest look at leadership, growth, and the power of showing up as your real self.