Next Steps Forward with Dr. Chris Meek

Personal empowerment, commitment to our own well-being and the motivation to achieve more than we ever thought possible are the ingredients of a better life. And, they’re all within our reach. Next Steps Forward with Dr. Chris Meek delves into the keys to adding energy, excitement, direction and purpose to everything that we do. The program hosts mental health advocates and medical experts, frontline voices on human trafficking and social justice issues, familiar faces from the worlds of entertainment and sports, and leading entrepreneurs to engage in thought-provoking discussions that inspire the audience to take their own next steps forward to better themselves and their communities. Next Steps Forward is intended to be a source of empowerment that many around the world are in need of now more than ever. For guests who join the program, Chris cultivates a space where honest, quality conversations thrive and are not only meant to educate and inform but inspire action, introspection and a deeper understanding of the world around us. Next Steps Forward with Dr. Chris Meek is an informative, uplifting hour every Tuesday at 1 PM Eastern Time/10 AM Pacific Time that’s certain to inspire you to take that important next step forward, too.

The Power of Mattering w/ Dr. Zach Mercurio 08/11/2026

Chasing Happiness, Missing Joy w/ Dr. La'Tesha Sampson 08/04/2026

Chasing Happiness, Missing Joy w/ Dr. La'Tesha Sampson What's the difference between happiness and joy and why do so many of us spend a lifetime chasing one while missing the other? This week, host Dr. Chris Meek sits down with Dr. La'Tesha Sampson, a nationally recognized educator, licensed psychotherapist, author, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community leader. A New Jersey native, Dr. Sampson has spent more than two decades helping individuals and communities overcome adversity, improve mental health, and build lives filled with purpose. She is the founder of Great Joy Counseling and Consulting Services, executive director of the Great Joy Community Development Corporation, and director of the Master of Social Work and Master of Public Administration programs at Seton Hall University. Dr. Sampson opens up about the childhood trauma and periods of homelessness that shaped her early years, the moment she realized her circumstances didn't have to determine her future, and the people who helped her believe in herself along the way. She and Chris explore why joy can coexist with grief and uncertainty, why mental health has long been difficult to discuss openly in communities of color, and whether America is facing a genuine mental health crisis or simply a new awareness of old problems. The conversation also takes on a provocative question raised recently in The New York Times: are we pathologizing ordinary life? Plus: faith and healing, service as leadership, entrepreneurship with a mission, and what today's young leaders are getting right. About Dr. La’Tesha Sampson: Dr. La’Tesha Sampson is the epitome of academic, philanthropic, and social service excellence. A proud Roselle, New Jersey native, she has devoted over 27 years to serving disenfranchised individuals and communities, guided by her belief in helping others transform their thinking to transform their lives. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, professor, author, grant writer, corporate and nonprofit trainer, program facilitator, media personality, and serial entrepreneur, Dr. Sampson wears many hats but each is rooted in a singular purpose: to cultivate healing, leadership, and sustainable joy. She is the Founder and President of Great Joy Counseling and Consulting Services, a thriving multi-state group practice where she and her team provide psychotherapy and life coaching to thousands of individuals, couples, families, and groups each year. She also serves as the Executive Director of the Great Joy Community Development Corporation, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing health, wellness, and quality of life for disenfranchised communities globally. In higher education, Dr. Sampson has taught and mentored future change agents at the University of New England, Rutgers University, the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, and Kean University. She now serves as Director of the Master of Public Administration Program and MSW Practicum Education at Seton Hall University, where she combines her passions for scholarship, leadership, and service. A committed philanthropist, Dr. Sampson sponsors scholarships for New Jersey high school students and supports nonprofit initiatives across Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, India, Ghana, Mexico, and Egypt. She has trained leaders from more than 200 organizations, colleges, and universities and currently serves on national and local boards, including NASW-PACE and the NJ Association of Black Social Workers. Her thought leadership has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Star Ledger, Thrive Global, The Huffington Post, NBC News 4, and TV One’s Fatal Attraction. She is also gearing up to be a TEDx speaker on the topic “Rejecting Happiness, Cultivating Joy.” /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/42255325

From Tragedy to Unity: David Paine and Jay S. Winuk on Building 9/11 Day 07/28/2026

From Tragedy to Unity: David Paine and Jay S. Winuk on Building 9/11 Day This week on Next Steps Forward, program host Dr. Chris Meek is joined by the co-founders of 9/11 Day, David Paine and Jay S. Winuk. Together, they share the remarkable story behind how a day of national tragedy was transformed into a federally recognized National Day of Service and Remembrance, now inspiring tens of millions of Americans to honor those lost in the September 11 attacks through acts of kindness, volunteering, and community service. David and Jay discuss the origins of the movement, the deeply personal loss that shaped its mission, and how service became a unifying force across the country. They also explore the ambitious vision behind the 25th anniversary of 9/11 Day, which aims to mobilize the largest day of service in American history through nationwide volunteer initiatives, education programs, and cross-sector partnerships. At a time of increasing division, this conversation highlights the enduring power of service to bring people together, strengthen communities, and reaffirm shared humanity. About David Paine: David Paine is the co-founder and president of 9/11 Day, the nonprofit organization that led the formal establishment of September 11 as a federally recognized National Day of Service and Remembrance. Over the past 24 years, 9/11 Day has inspired tens of millions of Americans to honor the victims and heroes of 9/11 through acts of kindness, volunteering, and charitable giving—transforming a day of tragedy into a powerful annual moment of unity and service across the country. For the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Paine and his co-founder Jay Winuk are leading an ambitious national effort to organize what is expected to be the largest day of service in American history. The initiative will feature 50 large-scale, multi-city service projects focused on critical needs such as hunger relief, alongside expanded education programs and grantmaking to support schools, nonprofits, and youth organizations nationwide. This historic effort is powered by an extraordinary coalition of influential partners — including the NFL, Major League Baseball, National Governors Association, U.S. Conference of Mayors, America250, AmeriCorps, Points of Light, and many others — and is supported by more than 600 corporate partners, including Delta Air Lines, Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co., JPMorgan Chase, American Express, Citigroup, Pfizer, Blackstone, The Coca-Cola Company, Starbucks, and many other leading corporations committed to advancing service and unity nationwide. At a time of deep division, Paine is advancing a bold, unifying vision for civic engagement — one that invites Americans of all backgrounds to join together in shared purpose through service. His work is rooted in the belief that even in the face of profound loss, acts of compassion can help bridge divides, strengthen communities, and reaffirm our common humanity. Through his leadership, he has helped build a lasting national movement grounded in empathy, unity, and the enduring idea that doing good for others is one of the most meaningful ways to remember. About Jay S. Winuk: Jay S. Winuk is co-founder and executive vice president of 9/11 Day, the nonprofit organization that began and annually organizes the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. On September 11, 2001, Jay’s brother Glenn J. Winuk, an attorney, volunteer firefighter and EMT, was killed in the line of duty at the World Trade Center. Inspired by his brother’s lifelong devotion to community service and courageous actions, Jay joined David Paine in 2002 as co-founder in helping to build and lead the 9/11 Day observance. Jay is a frequent public speaker and a leading national voice about volunteerism, charitable service, terrorism, individual empowerment and his own experience as the brother of a murdered 9/11 first responder. His work, commentary and personal story have been featured in major news media reports, documentaries and books throughout the nation and world. Jay was a featured speaker at the nationally televised ServiceNation “Presidential Candidates Forum” at Columbia University, representing the 9/11 family community and delivering his remarks just prior to those of candidates U.S. Senators Barack Obama and John McCain. Since co-founding the nonprofit 9/11 Day organization with David Paine, Jay has spoken about charitable service and volunteerism before dozens of audiences – including at national conferences, corporate and annual meetings, press conferences with national legislative leaders, charitable events, on Capitol Hill, at colleges and high schools and more. In addition to his leadership role for 9/11 Day, Jay serves as president of Winuk Communications, Inc., the public relations agency he founded in 1994. He and his firm have won numerous national public relations awards, including multiple Silver and Bronze Anvils from the Public Relations Society of America, the industry’s highest honors. In this capacity Jay has provided PR support to many of the nation’s leading corporations, nonprofits and other organizations. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/40974950

Leadership, Resilience, and Never Forgetting w/ Boomer Esiason 07/21/2026

Leadership, Resilience, and Never Forgetting w/ Boomer Esiason What does it take to lead under pressure: on the field, in the broadcast booth, and in the most personal corners of family life? In this episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with NFL legend and MVP quarterback Boomer Esiason for a wide-ranging conversation about resilience, identity, purpose, and what it means to use your platform in service of others. Boomer led the Cincinnati Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance and earned league MVP honors in 1988 across a 14-year career. But his story didn't end with retirement. When his son Gunnar was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, Boomer channeled his competitive drive into founding the Boomer Esiason Foundation, which has raised hundreds of millions of dollars for research, education, and care. He also became a powerful voice for ensuring that the September 11, 2001 attacks are never forgotten, especially by the one-third of Americans who were too young or not yet born to remember that day. In this episode, you'll hear Boomer discuss: What it was like to play as a left-handed quarterback in an overwhelmingly right-handed league The belief and mindset that fuels comeback resilience, even when a team is down 31 points at halftime Receiving Gunnar's cystic fibrosis diagnosis and what it demanded of him as a father and an advocate Where he was on September 11, 2001, and why keeping that memory alive has become a personal mission About Boomer Esiason: Boomer Esiason is one of the most accomplished NFL quarterbacks of his era. He’s best known for leading the Cincinnati Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance and earning league MVP honors in 1988. Boomer Esiason’s football career spanned 14 years, but his story extends far beyond the game. Following his playing career, he became a respected broadcaster and a passionate advocate for those in need. After his son, Gunnar, was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, Boomer founded the Boomer Esiason Foundation, which raised hundreds of millions of dollars to support research, education, and care for those living with the disease. Throughout his life, Boomer Esiason has used his platform to serve others by advancing medical progress, supporting families, and helping ensure that future generations understand the significance of moments like 9/11 that have shaped our nation. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/42101670

Unhide & Seek w/ Ruth Rathblott 07/14/2026

The Responsibility to Remember w/ Andrew H. Card Jr and Leon Panetta 07/07/2026

The Responsibility to Remember w/ Andrew H. Card Jr and Leon Panetta In this milestone 250th episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek is joined by two of the most consequential public servants of our time: Andrew Card and Leon Panetta. In a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation, these former White House Chiefs of Staff reflect on lives shaped by service, leadership under pressure, and a shared commitment to preserving the lessons of September 11, 2001. From Leon Panetta’s upbringing as the son of Italian immigrants and his journey through Congress, the CIA, and the Department of Defense, to Andrew Card’s path from the Merchant Marine Academy to the highest levels of government, including his pivotal role on 9/11, this episode explores what truly forms a leader. The discussion spans decades of American history and civic life: the moral weight of leadership decisions, the value of military and public service, lessons learned from presidents across party lines, and the growing challenges facing democracy in an era of polarization. Card and Panetta also offer candid advice to young Americans considering public service today and reflect on whether unity and the political “center” can be restored. The second half of the episode is devoted to September 11, 2001 and its enduring legacy. Together, Card and Panetta recount the facts of that day, share firsthand experiences and behind-the-scenes moments, and examine how 9/11 reshaped national security, diplomacy, intelligence, and preparedness. As members of The 9/11 Legacy Foundation, they explain why remembrance must remain nonpartisan, why education is essential for future generations, and what lessons from 9/11 are most at risk of being forgotten as the 25th commemoration approaches. This landmark episode is a powerful reflection on leadership, memory, unity, and responsibility, and a reminder that remembering 9/11 is not just about honoring the past, but about shaping the future we choose to build. About Andrew H. Card Jr: Known for his calm, disciplined leadership and deep sense of duty, Andrew Card has spent decades in high-level roles in the public and private sectors. Among his roles during three administrations was his service as U.S. Secretary of Transportation, and Chief of Staff for President George W. Bush during one of the most consequential periods in modern American history, including the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. About Leon Panetta: Leon Panetta is one of America’s most experienced public servants. A former member of Congress, he has also served as White House Chief of Staff, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Director of the CIA, and later as the United States Secretary of Defense. He also founded the Panetta Institute for Public Policy to inspire civic engagement and educate future leaders. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/39812420

What We Leave Behind w/ Col (Ret) Allison Black 06/30/2026

What We Leave Behind w/ Col (Ret) Allison Black She never asked for the nickname “Angel of Death.” But when General Abdul Rashid Dostum taunted Taliban fighters over the radio on the first night of combat operations after 9/11, warning them that America had sent its women to fly bombers and kill them, Allison Black became part myth, part warning, part green laser dot in the dark. This week on Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with Colonel (Ret) Allison Black, one of the first women to fly combat missions in Afghanistan, a veteran of the AC-130 gunship and the elite U-28 Draco community, and a leader who spent decades helping younger service members find their footing and their purpose. Col. Black grew up in suburban Long Island with no military background and no master plan. A late-summer TV commercial and a phone book changed everything. What followed was a career defined not by the nickname she never wanted, but by the quiet, deliberate work that the public rarely sees: hours of observation, precise coordination, and the moral weight of decisions made thousands of feet above the ground. In this conversation, she explores what it means to serve with purpose when public support fades, how 9/11 remained her anchor through 20 years of war, and what she carried home from her first trip back to New York City in February 2002, including a handful of spent brass she brought to the firehouses still grieving their own. They also talk about legacy: not the kind etched in medals, but the kind measured in greasy fingerprints; the small, indelible marks people leave on your life, and the ones you leave on theirs. Humble. Credible. Approachable. It's on the edge of her challenge coin. And it's the throughline of everything she has to say. About Col (Ret) Allison Black: Allison Black is a retired United States Air Force Colonel with a distinguished 32-year military career. She enlisted in 1992 and served as a SERE (survival, evasion, resistance, & escape) specialist for over six years. Allison earned her undergraduate degree from Wayland Baptist University and was commissioned in 1998. She served the next 24 years of her career in USSOCOM & Air Force Special Operations (AFSOC).She has flown a total of over 3,400 hours with 2,000 combat hours in the AC-130H Spectre Gunship & U-28A Draco. In 2001, Allison deployed in support of TF Dagger as the initial response to the attacks on September 11th, earning the moniker “Angel of Death” for the decisive battlefield effects of the AC-130 crew. Allison has commanded at all levels of leadership and culminated her career as the Commander of the 1st Special Operation Wing, Hurlburt Field, Florida. She’s a native of East Northport, New York and has a Strategic Communications master’s degree from George Mason University and master’s in security studies from National Defense University. Allison lives in Navarre, Florida with her husband Ryan and two sons Connor and Cooper. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/41599525

From Wall Street to Healing and Hope: Bill Villafranco’s Journey Through Loss, Addiction, and Purpose 06/23/2026

From Wall Street to Healing and Hope: Bill Villafranco’s Journey Through Loss, Addiction, and Purpose On this week’s episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek welcomes Bill Villafranco, executive director of myFace, former Wall Street executive, philanthropist, and advocate whose life story is a powerful testament to resilience. Behind professional success, Bill faced profound personal challenges, including the loss of a young child, parenting two daughters through addiction, and battling his own depression and substance abuse. In this candid conversation, he shares what despair really looks like and how an unexpected friendship introduced him to Research Meditation, a practice that helped him quiet his mind, reframe trauma, and begin healing. Bill also discusses his leadership at myFace, the 70-year-old nonprofit supporting children and adults with facial differences. From anti-bullying education to family support and advocacy, he explains how the organization is creating more inclusive communities and empowering families nationwide. This episode is an honest and inspiring conversation about loss, recovery, service, and the power of becoming present, with ourselves and with others. About Bill Villafranco: For more than a decade, Bill Villafranco has been involved as a donor, board member, board president, and now executive director of myFace, the respected organization that supports children and adults with facial differences. As compelling as that work is, Bill Villafranco’s life story is an intriguing one. His biography describes him as an advocate, a father, a philanthropist, and a speaker. But he’s also a former Wall Street executive who survived multiple market crashes, knows the pressure of high-stakes performance and the hidden pain that often lies beneath success. Bill has lived through profound personal loss, including the death of a young child and the heartache of parenting two daughters through addiction. He has also faced his own battle with depression and substance abuse, navigating years of despair before finding a path to healing through the practice of Research Meditation. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/40070310

Have You Forgotten? w/ Darryl Worley 06/16/2026

Have You Forgotten? w/ Darryl Worley Twenty-five years after September 11th, the question Darryl Worley asked in song still echoes. This week, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with the country artist whose post-9/11 anthem "Have You Forgotten?" spent seven weeks at #1 and became one of the most defining songs of a generation, not because it was chasing a moment, but because it was speaking for one. Worley's story starts long before Nashville. Raised in southern Tennessee by a Methodist minister and a church-choir mother, he spent five formative years honing his craft at the legendary FAME Studio in Muscle Shoals before carving out a place in country music on his own terms, refusing to compromise his traditionalist roots even when the industry pushed back. His instinct to stay true to himself paid off, producing a string of hits that resonated with the working-class audiences he'd always written for. But it was a Christmas USO trip to Kuwait and Afghanistan in 2002 that changed everything. What he witnessed among the men and women serving overseas moved him to write a song that wasn't just country radio fodder, it was a rallying cry. In this conversation, Worley reflects on what inspired "Have You Forgotten?", what it meant to the troops he visited, and what it still means to him as the nation approaches the 25th observance of that September morning. For Darryl Worley, remembering isn't about politics. It's about people: the ones who were lost, the ones who answered the call, and the ones still carrying it forward. About Darryl Worley: Darryl Worley is a country artist whose music has always been rooted in the working class and built on authenticity. Raised in southern Tennessee by a Methodist minister father and a church-choir mother, he honed his craft at the legendary FAME Studio in Muscle Shoals before making his way to Nashville, where he scored three Top 20 hits with his debut album. His second album produced his first #1 single, "I Miss My Friend," but it was "Have You Forgotten?”, written after a USO trip to Kuwait and Afghanistan in 2002, that cemented his place in country music history. The song spent seven weeks at #1, becoming one of the defining anthems of the post-9/11 era. Beyond the music, Worley has completed more than 15 USO tours and has used his platform to serve his community in lasting ways. He founded the Tennessee River Run, an annual event in Savannah, Tennessee, that has raised over $100,000 annually for local charities and supports the Darryl Worley Cancer Treatment Center, a facility that brought critical care to a previously underserved region. A traditionalist who cites Merle Haggard and George Jones as his north stars, Worley has never chased trends at the expense of his values, and his music continues to reflect the same honesty, purpose, and blue-collar heart that have defined his career from the start. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/41599790

Hard Lessons from Inside the War on Drugs w/ Richard Baum 06/09/2026

Hard Lessons from Inside the War on Drugs w/ Richard Baum The opioid epidemic has claimed hundreds of thousands of American lives, devastated families, and challenged policymakers for more than four decades. In this compelling episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with Richard Baum, a 28-year veteran of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy who served under six presidential administrations, including a stint as acting director. Drawing on nearly three decades at the center of America's drug policy efforts, Baum provides an insider's perspective on the evolution of the opioid crisis, from prescription painkillers to heroin to the deadly rise of fentanyl. He examines the policy decisions, cultural shifts, pharmaceutical influences, and enforcement challenges that helped fuel one of the most devastating public health crises in modern American history. Baum also discusses lessons from his new book, Hard Lessons from Inside the War on Drugs, offering candid reflections on what worked, what failed, and why meaningful progress has often proven so difficult. The conversation explores the balance between public health and criminal justice approaches, the role of mental health and treatment, the international dimensions of fentanyl trafficking, and the bipartisan efforts required to address addiction and overdose deaths. Most importantly, Baum shares the human stories behind the statistics, families forever changed by addiction, the emotional toll of the epidemic, and the reasons he remains hopeful that future generations can learn from the past. This is a thoughtful, timely discussion about one of America's most complex and consequential challenges and what it will take to move forward. About Richard Baum: Richard J. Baum has served at the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) for two decades in a variety of positions through five presidential administrations. He was Acting Director of ONDCP – or Drug Czar – from March 2017 to February 2018. In this position he served as the principal advisor to the President on drug policy and worked directly with Cabinet Secretaries. For much of his tenure as Acting Director he served concurrently as Executive Director of the President’s Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis, overseeing ONDCP’s work with the Commission in drafting and editing their two reports and coordinating and participating in their meetings in Washington. Mr. Baum has previously served in a variety of management and policy positions at ONDCP. During his career at the Drug Czar’s office he led the development of numerous strategic documents, including the organization’s marquee publication, the National Drug Control Strategy, six times in three administrations, more than any other ONDCP official in its 30-year history. Prior to joining ONDCP's staff in 1997, he was a drug/health/justice policy analyst, researcher and grant writer, and served for six years as a Congressional Staff Member. He currently works on emerging drug threats at ONDCP’s Office on Translational Research and also serves on the faculty of the annual Rx Summit and Illicit Drugs and speaks at a variety of other policy forums on behalf of his agency. Mr. Baum has both undergraduate and graduate degrees from Georgetown, as well as a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Colorado. He is an Adjunct Professor of Public Policy at Georgetown University’s McCourt Graduate School, where he designed and teaches a course entitled: The War on Drugs: Causes, Consequences and Alternatives. His first book, “Hard Lessons from Inside the War on Drugs,” was published in 2025. He was Born and raised in New York City’s East Greenwich Village. He resides now in Falls Church, Virginia with his wife Linda Bloss-Baum, an 18-year old son, Matthew, is at Fordham University studying communications. An older daughter, Alexandria, 23 graduated from Penn State with a degree in hospitality. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/41525290

Beyond the Textbook: Teaching 9/11 to a New Generation w/ Professor Jeremy Stoddard 06/02/2026

Beyond the Textbook: Teaching 9/11 to a New Generation w/ Professor Jeremy Stoddard On this installment of Next Steps Forward, program host Dr. Chris Meek welcomes Professor Jeremy Stoddard, Professor of Curriculum & Instruction at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a leading scholar in civics, history, and media education. Stoddard’s work focuses on how schools teach difficult and often divisive topics, including 9/11, the Global War on Terror, and other complex moments in American history. Drawing from years of research, curriculum development, and public scholarship, Stoddard discusses how educators can help students critically engage with contemporary issues while fostering thoughtful civic dialogue in increasingly polarized times. He also shares insights from his work on teaching “difficult history” through film and media, and why understanding multiple perspectives is essential to democratic education. Throughout the conversation, Stoddard reflects on the evolving way 9/11 is taught to a generation with no living memory of the attacks, the challenges teachers face when navigating controversial subjects in the classroom, and the importance of media literacy in helping students separate fact from misinformation. This compelling discussion explores education not just as the teaching of history, but as preparation for informed citizenship, empathy, and meaningful civic participation. About Jeremy Stoddard: Jeremy Stoddard is Professor of Curriculum & Instruction and a researcher in the Wisconsin Center for Education Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His research includes the teaching of civics and history in partisan contexts, the integration of media education into democratic education, and a particular focus on engagement with so-called “difficult” or marginalized histories and contemporary controversial issues. In addition to numerous publications, he has also led curriculum development and evaluation projects in formal and informal education settings, including his current IES-funded project PurpleState. He has co-authored or co-edited three books, including Teaching Difficult History Through Film (Routledge, 2017). He has served in numerous service roles, including Editor for Theory & Research in Social Education, and leadership roles in the Teaching History SIG of AERA, National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS), and the College and University Faculty Assembly (CUFA) of NCSS. Prior to joining the UW faculty in 2019, Stoddard was on faculty at William & Mary, where he served as Chair of the Department of Curriculum & Instruction, founded and directed the interdisciplinary program in Educational Studies, and was an affiliated faculty of the Film and Media Studies program. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/41437370

Living Beyond Cancer: Suzanne Stone on Hope, Healing, and Survivorship 05/26/2026

Living Beyond Cancer: Suzanne Stone on Hope, Healing, and Survivorship In this inspiring episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with Suzanne Stone, President and CEO of the , to discuss the evolving landscape of cancer survivorship, advocacy, and patient-centered care. With a career spanning nonprofit leadership, health advocacy, and community impact, Stone shares how Livestrong continues to redefine what it means not just to survive cancer, but to truly live beyond it. From providing practical resources for patients and caregivers to advancing innovative solutions that address the emotional, physical, and financial realities of cancer, she explains why survivorship must remain at the center of the conversation. Stone also reflects on her leadership journey, the power of empathy in service-driven organizations, and the importance of creating meaningful support systems for families navigating some of life’s hardest moments. The conversation explores how organizations like Livestrong are adapting to modern healthcare challenges while continuing to build hope, community, and resilience for millions affected by cancer. About Suzanne Stone: Suzanne Stone is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Livestrong, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the daily lives of cancer survivors. Under her leadership, Livestrong continues to focus on the person, not the patient, with services that support physical activity after treatment, help for those whose treatment affects fertility, and a library of information available for free online. Stone’s extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, including her previous roles at CASA, Children’s Miracle Network, and Susan G. Komen, positions her strategically to lead Livestrong in fostering innovative solutions that resonate with the needs of cancer survivors. Her commitment to person-centered solutions and comprehensive support for survivors and their families is evident in her role at Livestrong. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/41207965

Through the Rubble: The Rescue That Defied Impossible Odds at Ground Zero w/ Scott Strauss 05/19/2026

Through the Rubble: The Rescue That Defied Impossible Odds at Ground Zero w/ Scott Strauss In this powerful episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek is joined by retired NYPD Emergency Service Unit officer Scott Strauss, whose harrowing experience at Ground Zero on September 11, 2001, stands as one of the most remarkable rescue efforts of that day. Strauss shares his firsthand account of responding to the collapse of the World Trade Center, where he and his ESU team entered the rubble in search of survivors amid an unfolding catastrophe. Working in extreme heat, darkness, and instability, Strauss became part of a small group of rescuers who achieved one of the only successful extractions from beneath the debris, helping save Port Authority Police Officer Will Jimeno after hours of relentless effort underground. Through vivid detail, Strauss recounts the chaos of that day, the emotional weight of searching for life in a devastated landscape, and the extraordinary teamwork required to reach survivors trapped deep within the wreckage. He also reflects on the psychological toll of the mission, the bonds formed under unimaginable pressure, and the lasting impact of what he witnessed and endured. This conversation is a testament to courage under fire, the resilience of first responders, and the enduring human drive to save lives even in the face of overwhelming tragedy. About Scott Strauss: Scott Strauss is a retired NYPD Detective with the Emergency Service Unit who responded to the World Trade Center attacks on September 11, 2001. In the aftermath of the collapse of the Twin Towers, he and his team took part in rescue operations in the debris field known as “the pile,” where they helped locate and free trapped survivors, including Port Authority officers Will Jimeno and John McLoughlin after hours of dangerous recovery work. Strauss has described the experience as deeply meaningful, saying it helped him emotionally process the tragedy through service and saving lives. He retired from the NYPD in 2003 and later went on to serve in local government as Mayor of Mineola, New York. He now shares his story as a 9/11 ambassador to help educate others about the heroism and resilience that emerged from the attacks. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/41207340

Asked, Not Tasked: Lt. Gen. Marc Sasseville and The Mission to Defend Washington on 9/11 05/12/2026

Asked, Not Tasked: Lt. Gen. Marc Sasseville and The Mission to Defend Washington on 9/11 In this powerful episode of Next Steps Forward with Dr. Chris Meek, retired Lieutenant General Marc Sasseville shares a firsthand account of one of the most extraordinary, and least understood, moments of September 11, 2001. Then a fighter pilot with the D.C. Air National Guard, Sasseville was not ordered into action that morning, he was asked. With no formal tasking, no clear rules of engagement, and no weapons onboard his F-16, he made the decision to take off anyway, prepared to do the unthinkable to defend the nation’s capital. What followed was not a story of cinematic heroics, but one of calculation, conviction, and responsibility. Sasseville reflects on the split-second decisions he and fellow pilot Heather Penney faced as they considered how to stop a hijacked airliner, knowing it could mean sacrificing their own lives. He offers a candid look at the gaps in America’s defense posture that day, the weight of leadership in moments of uncertainty, and the enduring emotional impact of 9/11. From escorting Air Force One back to Washington to grappling with the reality of a system caught unprepared, Sasseville brings clarity to the chaos of that day and honors the courage of the passengers of Flight 93, whom he calls the true heroes. This episode is a profound reflection on duty, agency, and what it means to act when there are no clear orders, only the belief that something must be done. About Lt. Gen. Marc H. Sasseville: Lt. Gen. Marc H. Sasseville was the 12th Vice Chief of the National Guard Bureau, the Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia. The VCNGB is second in charge of the National Guard Bureau which is a joint activity of the Department of Defense. The VCNGB assists the Chief of the National Guard Bureau in performing duties as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and principal advisor to the Secretary of Defense, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Secretary of the Army, and Secretary of the Air Force. He served as a channel of communication to the Department of the Army, Department of the Air Force on matters relating to the National Guard. He oversaw the NGB’s participation in the planning, programming, budgeting, and execution process, and the administration of funds appropriated to the NGB. He also oversaw NGB’s participation in the Joint Strategic Planning System, Global Force Management, and Force Employment on matters pertaining to homeland defense and defense support of civil authorities. Lt. Gen. Sasseville graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science in International Affairs. Following pilot training, he served in various operational units in United States Air Forces Europe, Tactical Air Command/Air Combat Command, and Pacific Air Forces. After his last active-duty assignment, he joined the District of Columbia Air National Guard. He has held squadron, group, wing and numbered air force command. He also served as the Senior Defense Official and Defense Attaché to Turkey. Prior to assuming his current position, Lt. Gen. Sasseville was the Commander, Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region and First Air Force, Air and Space Forces Northern, headquartered at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/41196175

Harnessing Fear: The Science of Trauma and Resilience w/ Dr. Arash Javanbakht 05/05/2026

Harnessing Fear: The Science of Trauma and Resilience w/ Dr. Arash Javanbakht Dr. Arash Javanbakht, a leading psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and founding director of the Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC) at Wayne State University School of Medicine, joins Dr. Chris Meek on this installment of Next Steps Forward. A nationally recognized expert in anxiety, trauma, and PTSD, Dr. Javanbakht shares insights from his extensive work treating civilians, refugees, and first responders. The conversation explores the complex science behind fear and resilience, from biological and psychological factors to the role of environment and lived experience in shaping how individuals respond to trauma. Dr. Javanbakht also discusses innovative approaches being used at STARC, including the integration of art, movement, mindfulness, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and telemedicine to support healing and recovery. Drawing from his acclaimed book Afraid: Understanding the Purpose of Fear, and Harnessing the Power of Anxiety, he offers a powerful perspective on how fear can be understood, not just as a challenge, but as a tool for growth. This episode is a compelling look at the future of trauma treatment and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there are pathways to resilience, healing, and forward progress. About Dr. Arash Javanbakht: Arash Javanbakht, M.D., is a psychiatrist and neuroscientist, founding director of the Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC) at Wayne State University School of Medicine. He is nationally known for his clinical and research work on anxiety, trauma, and PTSD. He is heavily involved in treatment of civilians, refugees, and first responders with PTSD. Dr Javanbakht researches the biological, psychological, and factors of risk and resilience among refugee children and adults. This work is funded by an NICHD R01 award and examines epigenetic, autonomic, parenting, and environmental elements of trauma impact. STARC also uses art, dance and movement, and yoga and mindfulness in helping refugee families overcome stress. Dr. Javanbakht's work in treatment and research of trauma among first responders is funded by the State of Michigan. STARC is also a national leader in utilization of patented artificial intelligence and augmented reality and telemedicine technologies for treatment for anxiety disorders and PTSD. This work is funded by the State of Michigan, and the DoD. Dr. Javanbakht is recipient of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America Distinguished Member Award, The Society for Biological Psychiatry Humanitarian Award, and International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies Distinguished Member Award. Dr. Javanbakht's work has been featured on CNN, Aljazeera, NPR, Scientific American, Washington Post, Smithsonian, PBS, Science, Lancet, American Psychiatric Association, Anxiety and Depression Association of America, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Society of Biological Psychiatry, and tens of other media outlets. He is the author of the book “Afraid: Understanding the Purpose of Fear, and Harnessing the Power of Anxiety”. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/41067180

Next Steps Forward Symposium: America as a Cultural Mosaic 04/28/2026

Next Steps Forward Symposium: Combating Human Trafficking 04/28/2026

From the Pentagon Daycare to the Pilot’s Seat: A Story of Duty, Healing, and Flight w/ Capt. Hanna Born 04/28/2026

From the Pentagon Daycare to the Pilot’s Seat: A Story of Duty, Healing, and Flight w/ Capt. Hanna Born Capt. Hanna Born was one of the children evacuated from the Pentagon daycare on September 11, 2001, too young to fully grasp what had happened, but old enough for it to leave a mark. Now an Air Force Captain and helicopter pilot, she carries that day not as a wound, but as a compass. In this installment of Next Steps Forward, Hanna opens up about growing up in the shadow of a national tragedy her family lived from the inside: a Marine father racing through gridlocked roads to find her, a mother commanding a military unit while not knowing if her daughters were alive, and two little girls trying to make sense of a world that had suddenly changed. She shares what it looked like to heal as a child, how art became her first language for processing fear, and what it meant to grow up surrounded by service members who modeled quiet duty over recognition. From the role of protector she assumed over her younger sister before she could even read, to the cockpit of a military helicopter, Hanna reflects on the through-line connecting that September morning to the life she has chosen. She talks about leadership under pressure, the weight and privilege of a family legacy in uniform, and what it means to honor a story you were almost too small to remember. For anyone who has ever wondered what it looks like when the children history touched grow up and choose to serve, this conversation is for you. About Capt. Hanna Born: Hanna Born was not yet three years old on September 11, 2001, when her father Tim raced through gridlocked traffic to reach her at the Pentagon daycare center after Flight 77 struck the building. It was the sound of her voice, crying out "Daddy!,” that greeted him when he finally found her safe, sheltered within a ring of metal cribs set up by unnamed Marines who had carried the children to safety and disappeared. In the aftermath of that day, Hanna quietly bore the weight of what she had witnessed. She slept for twenty-four hours straight, a common trauma response in young children, and cycled through regression and anxiety in the weeks that followed. She channeled her emotions into art: watercolors, crayons, finger paints and took on an early role as protector to her younger sister Heather. A photograph from those first raw days captures her stoically comforting Heather while the two looked at the still-smoldering Pentagon from a distance. Growing up surrounded by Air Force Academy cadets in Colorado Springs, and shaped by a family legacy of military service stretching back generations, Hanna found her path. Today she serves as a Captain in the United States Air Force and a helicopter pilot stationed at Fort Novosel, Alabama. She has also spoken publicly at 9/11 commemorations, carrying forward the story that began before she was old enough to fully understand it. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/40514860

Has Medicine Lost Its Mind? w/ Dr. Robert C. Smith 04/21/2026

Has Medicine Lost Its Mind? w/ Dr. Robert C. Smith Dr. Robert C. Smith, University Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Medicine and Psychiatry at Michigan State University and author of Has Medicine Lost Its Mind? Why Our Mental Health System is Failing Us and What Should Be Done to Cure It, has spent a lifetime helping physicians reclaim the human side of medicine. Bob has seen, from inside the exam room, how fragmented systems and over-documentation pull doctors away from their calling. His mission is to reconnect medicine to its original purpose: to listen, heal, and serve. The Next Steps Forward audience will relate to his clear, hopeful message about leadership and compassion in a system that often feels broken, including: How restoring empathy and communication can transform care What patients wish doctors knew…and vice versa Why healing the healers is key to fixing medicine The future of mental health integration in primary care Dr. Smith brings both credibility and heart. His insights help anyone in a service or leadership role remember why they started. About Dr. Robert C. Smith: Robert C. Smith, MD, MACP, is a university distinguished professor and a professor of medicine and psychiatry emeritus at Michigan State University, East Lansing. With many publications, awards, and strong grant support, he has been involved in teaching and research in patient-centered communication and primary care mental health since 1985. He and his colleagues defined the first evidence-based patient-centered interview, now published in a popular interviewing textbook, Smith’s Patient-Centered Interviewing: An Evidence-Based Method (4th ed., 2018). It is used in medical, nursing, and other health care schools in the United States and abroad for teaching interviewing and the doctor-patient relationship. Dr. Smith’s group also identified the first evidence-based method, the mental health care model, to guide primary care clinicians in managing mental health and substance-use problems. Essentials of Psychiatry in Primary Care: Behavioral Health in the Medical Setting (2019) resulted and is widely used to teach primary care mental health. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/40899835

A Sunny Tuesday in September w/ Gretchen Murphy 04/14/2026

A Sunny Tuesday in September w/ Gretchen Murphy On this episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with Gretchen Murphy to share a powerful story of resilience, gratitude, and legacy. As a three-time scholarship recipient of the 9.11 Promise, Gretchen’s journey is deeply personal, rooted in the lasting impact of the September 11 attacks and shaped by a community committed to honoring those who served. Now a student at Marist University pursuing both her undergraduate and master’s degrees, Gretchen reflects on how this support system has helped her grow academically, professionally, and personally. From studying abroad in Florence to leading initiatives with a student-run communications firm, Gretchen has embraced every opportunity made possible through the scholarship, driven by a desire to honor her family’s story and give back in meaningful ways. In this conversation, Gretchen shares what it means to come “full circle,” from applicant to advocate, as her younger brother prepares to follow in her footsteps. She offers a heartfelt perspective on remembrance, community, and the responsibility to carry forward the legacy of those who sacrificed so much. This episode is a moving reminder that behind every act of service is a ripple effect, one that continues to shape the next generation of leaders. About Gretchen Murphy: Gretchen Murphy is a junior at Marist University studying Communication and Marketing. As a high school senior, she completed her Girl Scout Gold Award titled “A Sunny Tuesday in September,” an age appropriate presentation aimed at middle school and high schoolers to retell the sort of 9/11 through her father and other first-responding firefighters perspectives. Her mission is rooted in honoring the true meaning of “Never Forget” by continuing to share the story of 9/11 and emphasizing why it remains vital to keep this conversation alive nearly 25 years after the attacks. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/40765750

Fearless Finance: Finding Money Happiness w/ Lori Atwood 04/07/2026

Fearless Finance: Finding Money Happiness w/ Lori Atwood What if financial advice was accessible, judgment-free, and tailored to wherever you are on your money journey? In this episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek welcomes Lori Atwood, CFP® and founder of Fearless Finance, a firm dedicated to bringing “money happiness” to everyone. Lori shares her unique approach to financial planning, offering hourly, virtual, fiduciary guidance with no sales, no commissions, and no minimums. Drawing on nearly 25 years of experience, from telecom investment banking in Europe, to serving as CFO of a startup, to managing assets for high net worth families, Lori helps individuals and small businesses understand their finances, set meaningful goals, and create plans that actually work. Lori will discuss practical strategies for budgeting, saving, investing, and planning for retirement, and shares how Fearless Finance meets clients exactly where they are, whether they are building wealth or managing existing assets. Along the way, she also offers insights into her journey in finance, her passion for helping people feel confident about money, and a glimpse into her life outside of work. Discover how to take control of your financial future, achieve your goals, and experience true financial wellbeing, no matter your starting point. About Lori Atwood: Lori Atwood, CFP® is the founder of Fearless Finance, whose mission it is to bring money happiness to absolutely everyone. Lori founded Fearless Finance to provide fiduciary, hourly, virtual financial planning advice to people who felt expert financial advice was out of reach. No sales, no commissions, no minimums and no judgment. We meet our clients where they are on their financial journey. Fearless Finance has registered financial planners located nationwide who work with individual clients and small businesses on financial planning, budgeting and forecasting, debt, savings, goal setting, investments and retirement planning. We help clients understand their financial situation, make a plan to achieve goals and maintain and enhance their financial wellbeing, no matter whether you have lots of assets or are still building your wealth. Lori Atwood started Atwood Financial Planning, LLC in 2016, and she has worked in finance for almost 25 years. The firm now operates under the brand Fearless Finance. Lori started her finance career in telecom investment banking in Europe. She then became the CFO of a 20-person internet start-up where she oversaw the sale of that company to a publicly traded company. After the sale, Lori went back to banking as an investment consultant managing assets for institutions, foundations and high net worth families. Lori also worked with a private equity firm to place capital in emerging markets. Lori has an undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s degree from Georgetown University. In her free time, she loves to cook, go to boot camp and most of all, spend time with her husband and daughter. Lori is a and Atwood Financial Planning, LLC is a Registered Investment Adviser with the SEC. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/40695765

Fighting Antisemitism w/ Adela Cojab 03/31/2026

Fighting Antisemitism w/ Adela Cojab Adela Cojab is a legal advocate and media contributor recognized for her commitment to protecting Jewish rights and addressing antisemitism in academic institutions. Many in the Next Steps Forward audience will recognize her from the complaint she filed in 2019 against New York University (NYU) under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act for failing to protect its Jewish community from discrimination and harassment. Her case contributed to the Executive Order on Combating Antisemitism, laying the groundwork for subsequent cases. She joins program host Dr. Chris Meek to provide an account of her experiences at NYU and how they inspired her work to combat antisemitism, how young adults can move important conversation surrounding antisemitism and Israel on university campuses, how others can find effective ways to speak out against antisemitism and the importance of building bridges and making an impact both in and outside of Jewish communities. About Adela Cojab: Adela Cojab Moadeb is a legal advocate and media contributor recognized for her commitment to protecting Jewish rights and addressing antisemitism in academic institutions. Adela is best known for filing a complaint against New York University (NYU) under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act in 2019 for failing to protect its Jewish community from discrimination and harassment. Her case contributed to the Executive Order on Combating Antisemitism, laying the groundwork for subsequent cases. Adela has served as a commentator on major networks like FOX News Channel, Telemundo, and Univision, and has consulted on multiple antisemitism cases. Her work, from political advocacy to interfaith peace rallies, has been recognized internationally. Adela is a legal fellow at the National Jewish Advocacy Center, handling cases to protect Jewish Civil Rights. Adela formerly cohosted the interfaith podcast, Americanish: Daughters of Diaspora, and currently hosts OpenDor Media’s daily YouTube show, TodayUnpacked. Adela holds a J.D. from Yeshiva University's Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law and B.A. from NYU's Gallatin School of Individualized Study, with a concentration in Middle Eastern Diaspora Structures. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/35287695

The Power of Emotional Strength w/ Kendall Gammon 03/24/2026

Aiming High w/ Former Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James 03/17/2026

Protecting the Next Generation: Confronting Online Exploitation and Reclaiming Digital Safety with Donna Rice Hughes 03/10/2026

Protecting the Next Generation: Confronting Online Exploitation and Reclaiming Digital Safety with Donna Rice Hughes This week on Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with Donna Rice Hughes, President and CEO of Enough Is Enough, for a candid conversation about what’s really happening online and what it’s going to take to protect the next generation. Rather than looking back, this discussion focuses on the urgent challenges facing families right now: the rise of online exploitation, the normalization of extreme content, the mental health impact of social media, gaming risks, and how predators leverage emerging technologies. Donna breaks down how these threats have evolved since the early days of the internet and explains why today’s digital landscape demands a new level of accountability from tech companies, lawmakers, and culture at large. She also shares what meaningful reform looks like: from bipartisan policy efforts and presidential pledges to practical tools parents, educators, and communities can implement immediately. Drawing from her work developing Internet Safety 101 in partnership with the United States Department of Justice and her experience bringing these issues to national audiences through PBS, Donna outlines a clear framework for prevention, education, and enforcement. This episode goes beyond headlines. It’s a forward-looking conversation about responsibility in the digital age, empowering families without fear, and how collaboration between the public, the tech industry, and the legal system can create lasting change. If you care about online safety, child protection, or the future of digital culture, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. About Donna Rice Hughes: Donna Rice Hughes, President and CEO of Enough Is Enough® (EIE) is an internationally known Internet safety expert, author, speaker and producer. Her vision, expertise and advocacy helped to birth the Internet safety movement in America at the advent of the digital age. Since 1994, she has been a pioneering leader on the frontlines of U.S. efforts to make the Internet safer for children and families by implementing a three-pronged strategy of the public, the technology industry and legal community sharing the responsibility to protect children online. This strategy has been adopted by industry and governments worldwide. Under her leadership, most recently, EIE created the Internet Safety 101 Program with the U.S. Department Of Justice. She is the Executive Producer, and host of the Internet Safety 101 DVD series which was reformatted into the Internet Safety 101 Television Series for PBS (2013). She received an Emmy nomination as the program’s host. Hughes also spearheaded EIE’s bi-partisan (2016) which was signed by then Candidate Trump, and supported by Hillary Clinton; the 2024 Children’s Internet Safety Presidential Pledge” to Vice President Harris and President Trump supported by 60 organizations and survivor leaders representing millions of Americans; The Governor’s Pledge led by S.C. Governor McMaster and the State Attorneys General Pledge co-led by AG Wilson (SC) and AG Racine (DC) and signed by 15 AG's thus far. She has given thousands of media interviews on all the major news outlets on topics related to online dangers (porn, CSAM, sexual predation, bullying, trafficking, online gaming, social media, etc), safety solutions, testified numerous times before Congress, and is the winner of numerous awards including the 2013 Women In Technology Award for Social Impact and the 2014 Professional Women in Advocacy Excellence In Advocacy Award for “Veteran Practitioner”. She also received a Senate appointment to serve on the Child Online Protection Act Commission. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/40301890

Blindspotting: What Great Leaders Don’t See and How to Break Through It w/ Martin Dubin 03/03/2026

Blindspotting: What Great Leaders Don’t See and How to Break Through It w/ Martin Dubin In next week’s episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with clinical psychologist, entrepreneur, and executive coach Martin Dubin for a powerful conversation about leadership and the hidden barriers that hold even the most accomplished leaders back. Martin’s career spans clinical psychology, startup entrepreneurship, Fortune 50 healthcare leadership, and high-level executive coaching. After more than a decade in private practice, he founded and scaled a multimillion-dollar healthcare company with more than 250 employees, ultimately leading its sale to Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, where he served as a senior vice president. He has also coached senior executives at Fortune 500 companies, worked with venture capital firms including Andreessen Horowitz and Sequoia Capital, and served as a coach at the Center for Creative Leadership and partner at RHR International. Drawing on this unique blend of psychology and business experience, Martin explains why leaders often reach a point where their tried-and-true tools stop working and why the real obstacle is often something they cannot see: their blindspots. The discussion explores: Why even self-aware leaders miss critical truths about themselves How unseen behaviors derail performance and relationships The six types of blindspots that most commonly undermine leadership Practical strategies to identify and manage your own blindspots Martin also shares insights from his book, Blindspotting, offering a deeply practical framework for recognizing the hidden patterns that limit growth and unlocking higher performance, stronger teams, and more effective leadership. This episode is a candid and actionable look at what it truly takes to grow as a leader: the courage to look inward, confront what you don’t see, and do the work required to move forward. About Martin Dubin: Martin Dubin began his career in a clinical psychology private practice as a psychotherapist. He continued this practice for over a decade before moving to the business world as a founder and entrepreneur. He built a company with over 250 employees, ultimately driving its sale to Fortune 50 health insurer Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, where he worked as a senior vice president for three years. Dubin then launched the third act of his career, bringing his training in psychology and his business experience to the coaching space. His experience as an entrepreneur won him consultation contracts with portfolio companies of Andreessen Horowitz and Sequoia, venture capital firms. Dubin’s work as a clinical psychologist taught him to think deeply about why people do what they do. That, combined with his business experience has enabled him to provide his coaching clients with actionable advice directed at both personal and professional success. He lives in Colorado and New Mexico, where he enjoys skiing and hiking in the mountains and the desert and continues his work with clients, both individually and in corporate settings. His work on blindspots has informed not just his book Blindspotting: How to See What’s Holding You Back as a Leader but also a test to discover any individual’s blindspots. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/40228815

The Heart of a Hero w/ Clarence Singleton 02/24/2026

The Heart of a Hero w/ Clarence Singleton In this compelling episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with Clarence Singleton to explore a lifetime defined by service, sacrifice, and resilience. Clarence reflects on growing up in South Carolina under difficult circumstances, the decision to enlist in the United States Marine Corps, and the life-altering moment in Vietnam when he was severely wounded while trying to save fellow Marines, an act that earned him the Purple Heart. He shares how that experience shaped his understanding of courage, leadership, and responsibility. The conversation also examines his transition from military service to the New York City Fire Department, including his response to the 1993 World Trade Center bombing and his decision to return to Ground Zero on September 11, 2001 despite having already retired. Clarence opens up about the physical and emotional toll of 9/11, overcoming post-traumatic stress, and what it truly means to “carry on” after unimaginable loss. This episode is not just a story of survival, it’s a discussion about duty, faith, perseverance, and why each of us has a responsibility to serve something greater than ourselves. About Clarence Singleton: Clarence Singleton is a motivational speaker, author, former United States Marine, Vietnam veteran, and Purple Heart recipient whose life has been defined by courage and service. Born in 1949 in Sumter, South Carolina, one of eight children, Singleton helped support his family from a young age after his father left. Before graduating high school, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and trained at Parris Island, where he was named Outstanding Member of his platoon and meritoriously promoted. Serving as a Lance Corporal with the 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines in Vietnam, he was severely wounded while attempting to save fellow Marines during a rocket attack, just 28 days before the end of his tour, earning the Purple Heart. After more than a year of recovery, he relocated to New York City, building a career in banking before answering another call to serve by joining the New York City Fire Department in 1978. During his 22-year tenure with the FDNY, Singleton earned multiple commendations for bravery, including during the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, where he helped save numerous lives. Promoted to Fire Lieutenant in 1994, he retired in August 2000 but returned to duty voluntarily on September 11, 2001, responding to Ground Zero where he was seriously injured in the collapse of the South Tower. Despite extensive injuries and PTSD, he continued to embody resilience and service. Now residing in Virginia, Singleton is a sought-after inspirational speaker who has appeared in national media, including The Montel Williams Show, and has delivered keynote addresses at 9/11 remembrance ceremonies. On September 11, 2012, he began a new chapter in his life, marrying Mary Jean Heyres. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/40154815

Demystifying Therapy: Strengths, Anxiety, and the Courage to Grow w/ Aaron Gilbert 02/17/2026

Demystifying Therapy: Strengths, Anxiety, and the Courage to Grow w/ Aaron Gilbert In this installment of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek welcomes Aaron Gilbert, LICSW, a licensed independent clinical social worker with more than 30 years of experience helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, and related mental health challenges. Aaron is the founder of Boston Evening Counseling Associates and approaches therapy as a collaborative, trust-based process grounded in strengths-based, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and positive psychology. Together, they break down common misconceptions about therapy, exploring why it’s not about quick fixes or having all the answers, but about creativity, honesty, and courage. Aaron explains what positive psychology really means in practice, how focusing on strengths and small wins can build momentum for change, and why therapy should be viewed as an intentional act of growth rather than a last resort. The conversation dives into anxiety and depression, clarifying the difference between healthy worry and anxiety disorders, why depression can’t simply be “snapped out of,” and how treatment adapts to each individual. Dr. Meek and Aaron also explore attachment theory and separation anxiety, including how attachment styles form, how they affect adult relationships, and how people can move toward greater emotional security and resilience. This thoughtful and compassionate episode offers clarity, hope, and empowerment for anyone curious about therapy or seeking meaningful next steps toward emotional well-being. About Aaron Gilbert: Aaron Gilbert is a licensed independent clinical social worker with more than 30 years of experience of helping clients manage anxiety disorders. He founded Boston Evening Counseling Associates in Brighton, Massachusetts, in 2007 with the belief that good therapy is always a collaboration between client and therapist that requires creativity, energy, and most importantly, trust. His approach is influenced by training and experience in strengths-based, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused and positive psychology. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/39729105

The 9/11 Promise: Honoring 9/11 Through Action w/ Jen DePoto & Lt. Gen. H. Stacy Clardy 02/10/2026

The 9/11 Promise: Honoring 9/11 Through Action w/ Jen DePoto & Lt. Gen. H. Stacy Clardy As the 25th observance of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks approaches this year, Next Steps Forward continues its mission of honoring resilience, service, and purposeful action. In this powerful episode, host Dr. Chris Meek is joined by Jen DePoto, founder and president of The 9/11 Promise, and retired U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant General H. Stacy Clardy, a member of the organization’s board of directors. Jen shares the deeply personal inspiration behind founding The 9/11 Promise in 2016 and explains how the organization honors the heroes of 9/11 by supporting the children of fallen or disabled first responders and military service members. She and General Clardy discuss the growth of the 9/11 Promise Run, a demanding 240-mile endurance event where 100% of participant-raised funds go directly to scholarships, along with what it takes to participate and why action is such a vital companion to remembrance. General Clardy also reflects on his 38-year Marine Corps career, lessons in leadership learned from his veteran father, resilience forged through combat and command, and why continued service after retirement is both a responsibility and a calling. Together, they address why it’s essential for younger generations, many of whom weren’t alive on 9/11, to understand what happened that day, why it still matters, and how honoring the past must include meaningful action in the present. About Jen DePoto: Jen DePoto is the founder and president of The 9.11 Promise, an organization dedicated to honoring the heroes and legacy of September 11, 2001 by supporting those impacted and ensuring the promise to Never Forget is carried forward through service, education, and community engagement. Guided by a deep commitment to remembrance and responsibility, Jen’s work focuses on strengthening communities, uplifting survivors and families, and preserving the lessons of 9/11 for future generations. About Lt. Gen. H. Stacy Clardy: Lieutenant General Stacy Clardy retired from the United States Marine Corps on January 1, 2022, after almost four decades of military service. In his final tour as the Commanding General of III Marine Expeditionary Force, he was responsible for developing strategies with partners and allies, experimenting new operational concepts and capabilities, and preparing 25,000 Marines and Sailors for conflict with the People's Republic of China. His military decorations include the Department of Defense and Navy Distinguished Service Medals, the Legion of Merit with Combat Distinguishing Device and two Gold Stars, the Bronze Star with Combat Distinguishing Device, Combat Action Ribbon, and Presidential Unit Citation. He was also awarded Japan’s Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star, the Republic of Korea’s Order of National Security Merit Gukseon Medal, and South Carolina’s Order of the Palmetto. Stacy now resides in his home state of South Carolina with his wife, Alison, and Labrador Retriever, Orion. He is an advisor to multiple business organizations, is a Senior Fellow with the Center for Naval Analyses, and volunteers with The , the University of South Carolina, Saint Timothy’s Episcopal Church, and the Town of Pawleys Island, South Carolina /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/39994395

Future-Proofing Your Life: Technology, AI, and Taking Your Next Steps Forward w/ Crystal Washington 02/03/2026

Future-Proofing Your Life: Technology, AI, and Taking Your Next Steps Forward w/ Crystal Washington Join host Dr. Chris Meek as he sits down with Crystal Washington, one of Forbes' 50 Leading Female Futurists, to explore how we can navigate an increasingly complex technological landscape while staying true to our human values. Crystal, a certified futurist and technology strategist who has worked with Fortune 100 companies like Google, American Express, and Pfizer, breaks down the intimidating world of artificial intelligence, social media, and emerging technologies into actionable insights that anyone can understand and apply. In this engaging conversation, Crystal shares her expertise on becoming "future-proof" in both business and life, discussing how small tech actions can lead to transformative outcomes. As a Hall of Fame Speaker who appears weekly on the Emmy-nominated show Life 2.0, Crystal brings her unique perspective on how technology can be a force for good when we approach it with intention and purpose. About Crystal Washington: Futurist, author, and Hall of Fame Speaker, Crystal Washington equips organizations with the knowledge they need to become “future-proof.” As a technology strategist and certified futurist, Crystal makes complex artificial intelligence, social media, and app technology easy to understand and accessible for everyday people. Crystal’s clients include Fortune 100 companies, including Google, American Express, and Pfizer. As a sought-after keynote speaker, she has entertained and educated audiences around the globe. As one of Forbes’ 50 Leading Female Futurists, she appears weekly on season two of the Emmy-nominated show Life 2.0. She’s also appeared in numerous publications, including Entrepreneur and Bloomberg Businessweek, and major television networks regularly call on her as a tech expert. Crystal is the author of One Tech Action and The Social Media Why. /episode/index/show/664f696d-b1e2-47ea-be18-a9fcb1766635/id/39915740

Next Steps Forward with Dr. Chris Meek

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