Expressions of Leadership
Leaders emerge from every walk of life. Whether you’re defining your leadership style or evolving it, learning from others can be transformative. Join leadership consultant and coach Michele Kawamoto Perry as she sits down with a diverse range of leaders—from startup CEOs pioneering new technology, to teachers challenging the status quo, doctors delivering compassionate care, and artists pushing creative boundaries. Together, they explore leadership styles, philosophies, and breakthrough practices. Discover fresh perspectives and actionable insights to help you lead with greater impact. Michele Kawamoto Perry is the founder of The Forward Project, a consultancy focused on leadership development and cultural transformation. As a corporate coach, she helps organizations cultivate stronger foundational leadership skills, empowering individuals who are ready to create change. Michele believes in the power of personal leadership and is on a mission to help build a more inclusive, engaging, and innovative world—one leader at a time. Look for new episodes every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube @ExpressionsOfLeadership.
Episodes

Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, two-time Emmy Award-nominated producer Sam Sokolow—best known for his work on the acclaimed series Genius—shares his insights on leadership, creativity, and community-building in the film industry. He explores the core principles that guide his approach, including being solution-oriented, honest, and a good listener. Sam also reflects on his journey from Los Angeles to South Carolina and how it’s shaping his vision for fostering a strong, creative film community. From academia to production, his experiences offer valuable lessons on leading with authenticity and purpose. Whether you're a film enthusiast or an aspiring leader, this conversation is filled with inspiration and practical wisdom.
Special thanks to Micah Warren and Large Media Inc. for introducing us to Sam!
To learn more about the Stage 32 Certification program that supports film & TV workforce development, you can contact Sam directly at certification@stage32.com.
Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram.
Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Join us for an inspiring episode of Expressions of Leadership as Christopher Keevil, founder of Wellspring Consulting, shares his journey from the Boston Consulting Group to building Wellspring Consulting, a mission-driven firm dedicated to helping nonprofits address strategic challenges and achieve results. He opens up about authentic leadership, creating a thriving organization, and how Zen principles shape his approach. Chris emphasizes the power of attentive observation, managing reactivity, and fostering trust and vulnerability in the workplace. Plus, he dives into the themes of his book, Finding Zen in the Ordinary, and reflects on mentorship and the importance of leading with clarity, self-awareness, and purpose.
More about Chris Keevil:
Learn more about Wellspring Consulting at: https://www.wellspringconsulting.net/ Check out Chris's Garden OakSangha for Zen resources and monthly meditations: https://www.gardenoaksangha.org/Connect with Chris:https://mastodon.social/@ChrisKeevil
https://x.com/chriskeevil
Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram.
Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, entrepreneur Shayla Height shares how authenticity, humor, and courage shape her leadership and creative ventures. She discusses the inspiration behind WTF Mama, her bold comic series celebrating outspoken women, and how her streetwear brand Full Bloom Savage redefines menopause with style and confidence. Tune in for an engaging conversation on leadership, resilience, and the power of community among women.
Find out more about WTF Mama and Full Bloom Savage:
WTF Mama
Kickstarter Link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/wtfmama/what-the-f-ck-mama
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefuckmama/
Website: saywtfmama.com
Full Bloom Savage
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fullbloomsavage/
Website: fbsavage.com
Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram.
Learn more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and how The Forward Project drives culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, we speak with Debra Perry Piscioni and Josh Drean, cofounders of Work3 Institute and authors of the upcoming book Employment is Dead: How Disruptive Technologies Are Revolutionizing the Way We Work. Together, we explore the future of work, the power of emerging technologies like AI and Web3 and how embracing empathy and innovation can transform workplaces. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation about adapting to workforce changes and uncovering the leadership potential in everyone.Learn more about Deborah and Josh:
Employment is Dead book release through Harvard Business Review Press on January 28, 2025.
Work3 Institute: https://work3.me/
Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram.
Learn more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and how The Forward Project drives culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.

Tuesday Jan 07, 2025
Tuesday Jan 07, 2025
In today's episode, we sit down with celebrity chef Katie Chin, an award-winning cookbook author and culinary ambassador. She's also an inspiring leader who has made appearances on platforms like The Today Show and even at the White House.
Katie brings her unique perspective on leadership, influenced by her rich experience in corporate roles and her journey in the culinary world. From being an executive at Disney to becoming an entrepreneur and chef, Katie shares compelling insights about staying nimble, embracing change, and fostering creativity.
Join us as we explore how Katie Chin navigates the challenges of leadership, integrates fun into work, and continues her path of growth and learning with integrity and an indomitable spirit.
Connect with Katie:
www.chefkatiechin.comwww.wokstarcatering.comwww.fortunecookiedivas.comFacebook Fan Page: Chef Katie ChinX & Instagram: @chefkatiechin
YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1ITaCZV
We will drop new episodes bi-monthly on the 1st and 3rd week of every month. Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram.
Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project’s expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.