The Minor Consult

In a special episode recorded in front of a live audience, Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Chelsea Clinton, a bestselling author and an advocate for public health and early childhood education. They discuss the importance of accountability for scaling global health initiatives, and the power of storytelling to counter misinformation in science and health. They also talk about finding motivation through conscious optimism and rebuilding public trust through support of individuals, families, and communities. Along the way, they share memories of Chelsea's time as a Stanford undergraduate and their overlapping memories of their home state of Arkansas.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Katharine Manning, author, victim rights attorney, and expert on empathy in the workplace, for a conversation about how to support people in distress. They discuss the universal needs of people who have experienced traumatic situations, from being victims of a crime to losing a loved one. They also explore effective ways to respond to people who have confided problems, strategies for coping in professions that are emotionally trying, and how leaders can cultivate a culture of empathy and mental wellbeing at work.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Matt Abrahams, executive communications coach and Stanford Graduate School of Business lecturer, for a conversation about how to connect and engage different audiences in a wide range of settings. They explore key principles for effective communications, the importance of focusing on audience needs, and how to prepare for spontaneous speaking opportunities. They also discuss how to build trust through collaboration, the pitfalls of going negative, and balancing the efficiency gains of generative AI with the loss of authenticity and human connection.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Abraham Verghese, MD, physician, educator, and bestselling author, for a conversation about literature, medicine, and his latest book “The Covenant of Water.” They explore the family history and medical mystery at the heart of the critically acclaimed novel, along with the synergies of writing and medicine. They also discuss the books that inspired Verghese's career, how he found his artistic voice, and what it's like when your creation receives enthusiastic support from Oprah Winfrey.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Marissa Mayer, former Yahoo CEO, early Google employee and co-founder of Sunshine, for a conversation about the past, present, and future of AI and lessons learned from the evolution of search engine technology. They explore her experience pioneering iconic Google applications, what to expect as AI technology matures, and what it will take for a company to distinguish itself in the competitive world of AI. They also discuss the importance of building AI systems around the human experience, how to best regulate emerging technologies, and how to earn the public's trust when developing transformative innovations. 

In a special episode recorded from his home state of Arkansas, Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Alice Walton, philanthropist and fellow Arkansan, for a lively conversation about the importance of creating opportunities and access to art and health care, particularly in underserved regions.  They explore the intersections of medicine and the humanities, and discuss how Walton's newly established Whole Health Institute and Alice L. Walton School of Medicine will support human health with a holistic, integrated approach. Walton also shares leadership lessons from her father, Sam Walton, and her insights about building institutions to benefit rural communities.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Busy Burr, interim CEO of the drug store chain Rite Aid, for a wide-ranging discussion on driving transformational change in the tech and health care sectors and fostering an organizational culture of honesty and vulnerability.  Burr also provides insights on designing products that people truly want, the evolving role of pharmacists in patient care, and why she feels optimistic about the future of digital health and behavior change technologies. Plus: Find out how lessons from the art of improv translate to the business world in surprising ways.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Patrick Collison, co-founder and CEO of the e-commerce company Stripe, for a conversation about his journey as an entrepreneur in tech and biomedical science. They explore the origins of his e-commerce monolith, how he keeps Stripe a reliable mainstay for businesses around the world, and why he established the Arc Institute in the midst of a pandemic to accelerate biomedical research.  They also discuss the value of continuous improvement in leadership, the importance of understanding generational differences in the workforce, and the critical need to keep expanding the global knowledge base for the greater good.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Instacart CEO Fidji Simo for a conversation about how technology has revolutionized the way Americans shop for their food. They explore her path from the south of France to Silicon Valley, her passion for developing technology that solves “real person problems,” and her vision for improving our nation's relationship with food — and their health — through online grocery delivery.  They also discuss leadership lessons she learned from Mark Zuckerberg at Facebook, how leaders can unlock the magic of their team members, and how artificial intelligence is transforming the way we shop for groceries and put meals on the table.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes environmental activist Catherine Coleman Flowers for a conversation about widespread failures of public sanitation in the U.S., and the health and economic impacts on vulnerable populations in rural communities. They explore root causes of these systemic lapses, the increasing threat of climate change, and how her research and advocacy expanded from one Alabama county to communities across the country.  They also discuss the power of leading by listening, building a broad, diverse network of supporters, and maintaining humility and optimism in the face of daunting challenges.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Dr. Uma Valeti, CEO and founder of UPSIDE Foods, for a conversation about his company's breakthrough venture growing cultivated meat from animal cells. They explore the roots of his interest in finding a viable meat alternative, his journey from cardiologist to entrepreneur, and what led him to take a risk on revolutionizing the way we consume animal products.  They also discuss what it takes to secure investors and overcome skepticism in a nascent industry, how to inspire teams with an aspirational vision, and how leaders can combine scientific innovation and business acumen to advance positive change on the planet.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes NIKE Inc.'s Chief Human Resources Officer Monique Matheson for a conversation about how the pandemic changed the employee-employer relationship, how businesses can build high-functioning teams, and the power of speaking out for social justice from the platform of an international brand. They also discuss how sports principles can enhance employee synergy, the importance of supporting mental health and wellness, and why accountability is critical for making meaningful progress in workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion.

In this special episode in front of a live audience at the Stanford School of Medicine, Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Renee Wegrzyn, inaugural director of the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health, known as ARPA-H, within the National Institutes of Health. They explore Renee's vision and roadmap for the new agency, which was established in 2022 with the mission of accelerating high-impact research to drive transformative solutions in health and health care.  Renee outlines the agency's model for rapidly developing groundbreaking innovations and how her experience at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency informs her leadership of ARPA-H. She also discusses the importance of public-private collaborations, leveraging sophisticated technological platforms, and engaging diverse perspectives in advancing breakthroughs to address the most pressing challenges for patients and communities.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Carla Harris, an accomplished Wall Street executive, leadership coach, author, and singer. They explore her pioneering career path, breaking barriers in the corporate world, and the importance of investing in the development of executives and entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups.  They also discuss the value of insight versus oversight in leadership, the power of self-reflection and intentionality, and what it takes for an organization to successfully improve diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes former FDA commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb to discuss the role of government agencies in improving public health and handling crises. During their conversation, they examine the influence of business, politics, and finance on science and medicine, how to strike a balance between innovation and regulation in the health market, and changes that would better prepare the U.S. for the next public health crisis.  They also dive into the importance of active listening in leadership, being open to new organizational mindsets, and anticipating the range of reactions from businesses, communities, and individuals in times of uncertainty.

In a special episode recorded in front of a live audience at the Stanford School of Medicine, Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes award-winning author and physician-scientist Siddhartha Mukherjee. They discuss Siddhartha's new book, The Song of the Cell, how history and philosophy inform our understanding of biomedical progress, and the importance of conveying authority, while also acknowledging uncertainty, in science communication. Siddhartha also talks about his writing process, how he balances his work as a writer, physician, scientist, and entrepreneur, and biomedical breakthroughs that give him hope for the future.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes cultural anthropologist, attorney, and author Roberta Katz to discuss her professional journey and insights from her book Gen Z, Explained: The Art of Living in a Digital Age. During their conversation, they explore the values and viewpoints of the first digitally native generation, including the high regard for authenticity, adaptability, and human connection. They also talk about what older generations can learn from Generation Z and what to expect from interpersonal relationships and leadership as the digital information age evolves in coming decades.

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Ford Foundation President Darren Walker, who journeyed from a segregated small town in Texas to a successful career on Wall Street before taking the helm of one of the world's most impactful philanthropies. Together, they discuss the opportunities for upward mobility that exist in our country and share how living with purpose and pursuing social justice are vital to ensuring everyone can reach their potential. Additionally, Darren discusses the importance of addressing root causes of inequity in America in order to mend divisions and reinforce our common humanity. 

Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes leadership expert and adventurer, Alison Levine, for a discussion about finding greatness at the intersection of dreams and determination. During their conversation Alison shares leadership lessons she learned while summiting the world's tallest mountains. Additionally, she and Dean Minor  talk about pushing past limitations, rejecting complacency in favor of opportunity, and the value of resilience – even if it means relentlessly focusing on the next step rather than the end result. They also discuss  ways to empower teams, the freedoms and opportunities in failure, and living without regrets. Are you up to the challenge?

In this episode, Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes actor, musician, and Hollywood superstar John Stamos discuss personal and professional impacts of the pandemic, the joys and legacies of family, and overcoming life's hurdles to embrace purpose and success. Along the way, they touch on John's four-decade career as an actor (including many show business memories), The Beach Boys and the power of music, and the importance for leaders to respect others, seize opportunities, and find outlets of expression and human connection.

In this episode, Dean Lloyd Minor is joined by President and CEO of Mental Health America, Schroeder Stribling. After discussing her journey to activism and leadership, they examine the emerging mental health crisis, how to deal with societal traumas, and the keys to building an effective nonprofit. Together, they explore the power of networks, radical hospitality, building communities, and collaborative action to provide hope and 

In this episode, Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes former Director of the National Institute of Mental Health, Thomas Insel. Together, they dive into the complex challenges that have exacerbated global mental health throughout COVID-19 pandemic, and how the field must evolve to meet the present moment. They also explore the importance of building organizations around a foundational mechanism or principle, and the power of taking risks to pursue innovation.

As technology and media become increasingly intertwined, Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Silicon Valley insider and The Information CEO Jessica Lessin. They discuss cultivating sources in the nation's most dynamic companies, the greatest challenges facing tech companies, and building trust with news consumers who are increasingly confronted with misinformation.  They also examine how tech must grapple with data privacy, how women can break barriers in business, and how the pandemic is redefining corporate culture and forging new avenues of growth and success.

Following years of record challenges and uncertainty in the airline industry, Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Oscar Muñoz, former CEO and former executive chairman of United Airlines. They discuss the importance of leading by listening, sticking to values of empathy and open-mindedness, and growing diversity in corporate America. Over the course of their conversation, they explore the power of building trust with employees, providing honest guidance for the next generation, and how a personal health crisis can lead to meaningful revelations about life at work and at home.

With climate change a clear and present threat to society and human health, Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes NASA's Chief Scientist and Senior Climate Advisor Dr. Kate Calvin to examine the relationship between human development and our global resources. Together, they break down climate change's human impact, explore NASA's role in studying the planet, and identify the traits and strategies that enable leaders to overcome large-scale challenges.

Welcome to The Minor Consult, a new podcast series hosted by Dr. Lloyd Minor, Dean of the Stanford School of Medicine. Over the past few years of constant crisis, there is one thing we've all come to learn: leadership matters.   Each episode of The Minor Consult will explore what it takes to lead effectively, especially in times of upheaval and uncertainty. In this introduction, Dr. Minor shares his vision for the podcast and a preview of the compelling discussions to come with leaders and experts from diverse fields. 

Stanford School of Medicine Dean Lloyd Minor is joined by former US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on this episode of The Minor Consult.  Their discussion explores how Rice handled an array of complex challenges throughout her career. From confronting racial strife to rising through government ranks and leading the nation in the aftermath of 9/11, what wisdom guided her? And what advice would she give to other leaders seeking to advance the scale and impact of their organizations? 

Facing an era when science is on trial and attacked like never before, Dean Lloyd Minor speaks with Pulitzer Prize-winning science journalist and author Carl Zimmer.  Their discussion explores how leaders can address declining public trust in science and the medical establishment, the challenge of successfully communicating complex and critical scientific information, and how to bolster healthy dialogue between governments, scientific institutions, and the general public. 

Dean Lloyd Minor sits down in the studio with the son of Steve Jobs, an accomplished visionary in his own right, Emerson Collective Managing Director of Health Reed Jobs.   They discuss how to bring new therapies and diagnostics to patient care, leverage philanthropy and funding to tackle threats from cancer to COVID-19, and build a biomedical ecosystem capable of deploying new technologies to solve the future's most pressing problems.

With the movie awards season in full swing, Dean Lloyd Minor brings on Jennifer Todd, a top film producer of not only many American classics but several Oscars ceremonies.  In their discussion, they look at the many challenges the entertainment industry has faced during the pandemic, how the industry is reinventing itself, and how to handle a crisis during a live event (for instance, when award presenters go wildly off script). They also discuss strategies for building highly effective and diverse teams. 

Reflecting on the watershed events in health care of the past few years, Dean Lloyd Minor welcomes Betsy Nabel, the EVP for Strategy at ModeX Therapeutics and former President of Brigham and Women's Hospital.  They delve into lessons learned from the response to COVID-19 and examine what it takes to lead in public health during a once-in-a-generation crisis. Throughout their discussion, they examine core tenets of impactful leadership in health care, which can be applied in countless other sectors. 

In this episode, Dean Lloyd Minor is joined by eminent historian John Barry, a well-researched expert on two of our nation's greatest crises: the Flu Pandemic of 1918 and the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927.  They serve as direct parallels to our present-day challenges of COVID and climate change. How did leaders approach these disasters back then? And what historical lessons can we employ to effectively lead on these issues?

Dean Lloyd Minor sits down to discuss the rapid transformation of the workplace with the Editor at Large of LinkedIn's global newsroom, Caroline Fairchild.  They discuss the seismic changes of recent years that have altered the very nature of how we work, what employees and employers are doing to adjust, and how organizations can emerge stronger and more resilient following times of upheaval. As part of this conversation, they stress the importance of communicating with understanding and empathy, and of fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

In this episode of The Minor Consult, Lloyd Minor, Dean of the Stanford University School of Medicine, welcomes the famed political consultant who helped lead Bill Clinton to presidential victory in 1992, James Carville.  Together, they examine the leadership skills needed in today's political landscape, how to handle a crisis when it hits the national news, and the strategies leaders can employ to build trust and consensus. How can leaders step up in our modern era of polarization and constant crisis?