Mónica Guzmán: Curiosity’s Great Connector

What happens when we get curious about people we disagree with? Journalist, author, and podcast host Mónica Guzmán has made that question central to her work, drawing on her own experience navigating political differences with her Mexican immigrant parents, who support Donald Trump. In this episode of the Seattle podcast, Seattle magazine publisher Jonathan Sposato talks with Guzmán about finding common ground without compromising personal beliefs, the importance of listening, and why certainty can get in the way of understanding each other.List of writers, books, and organizations mentionedEdith Sampson: Commencement Address at North Central College (Naperville, Illinois)Olivia Jaramillo (lead trainer) and Troy Williams (former executive director) at Equality UtahMore In Common: Research on the “Perception Gap”Todd Rose, co-founder and CEO of Populace, and author of Collective IllusionsIsaac Saul, founder of TangleAmanda Ripley, author of High Conflict Braver AngelsYuval Levin of the American Enterprise InstituteRealClearPoliticsTown Hall SeattleI Never Thought of it That Way by Mónica GuzmánA Braver Way podcast

After nearly two decades at Pacific Northwest Ballet—where he was one of the company’s longest-running principal dancers and an audience favorite—Lucien Postlewaite is stepping into retirement at the end of the season. In this episode of the Seattle podcast, Seattle magazine editor-in-chief Rachel Gallaher sits down with Postlewaite as he candidly reflects on his storied career (he’s performed every major role in the ballet canon) and shares how dance has shaped him on all levels and prepared him for his next big role as a personal excellence coach. 

Entrepreneur and former presidential candidate Andrew Yang joins Seattle magazine publisher Jonathan Sposato to talk about AI and the economic shifts it’s driving. Yang reflects on the ideas behind his 2020 campaign, how automation is changing jobs, and what those shifts could mean for politics. He also talks about the Forward Party and whether another presidential run might ever be in the cards.

In this special episode, we sit down with Bruce Harrell, the 57th and current Mayor of Seattle. Beyond the office, who is the man leading our city? Join us as we pull back the curtain to learn more about his story, his motivations, and what truly makes him tick. This is Bruce Harrell: the person, not just the politician. Tune in, get inspired, and discover a new perspective on Seattle’s leader.

In this episode Jonathan Sposato sits down with Javier Saade; Saade is a recent Seattle transplant and a seasoned leader committed to making a meaningful impact on the city’s economic and entrepreneurial landscape. From founding companies to shaping innovation policy in the Obama administration, Javier has built a career guiding impact-driven ventures while serving on multiple boards and as an Executive Fellow at Harvard Business School. Now, he’s turning his focus to the Pacific Northwest: sharing why he believes the city holds untapped potential for innovation, leadership, and the future of impact investing.

Adam Miller, vice president for admissions and financial aid at Whitman College, is pulling back the curtain to give us an exclusive look at how college admissions really work. In this episode, he brings fresh insight and energy to the conversation, sharing how parents can best support their child’s college journey, what makes a standout application essay, and why now is an especially promising time to apply. We dive into the current state of college admissions, from the decline in high school graduates to the drop in applications, and how these shifts are leading to more opportunities for students as acceptance rates rise.

Scott Stulen is bringing fresh energy to the Seattle Art Museum. In this episode, he shares his vision for making SAM more accessible and community-focused, his journey to the Pacific Northwest, and how pop culture — even Ferris Bueller's Day Off — shapes his approach to art. Tune in to hear what’s ahead for the museum and what it means to Seattle.

Woodland Park Zoo CEO Alejandro Grajal wants you to think differently about zoos. In this episode, he talks about conservation, climate action, and how zoos can serve as civic spaces. He also shares what’s coming next, including the new Forest Trailhead and a chance to walk with flamingos.

Want to understand AI? When we think about the future of technology, it’s easy to picture flashy gadgets or complex code. But today’s guest reminds us that behind every innovation, there are people — thoughtful, passionate people — who are shaping the way we move forward.Laura Hoffman is one of those people.She’s an AI Principal PM Manager at Microsoft, where she leads teams working on some of the most exciting and impactful tech happening today. AI for Good.  Before Microsoft, she built her career at Amazon, gaining a front-row seat to how innovation like the Kindle can change the world.Today, we’ll be diving into the world of AI, what it means for all of us, and why human connection is the difference maker. 

Spencer Frazer is exemplary of multiple talents and multiple acts. Hear his journey of working on top secret government projects, to being a maker of combat knives, to finally emerging as one of the top painters in our region. Learn how he uses his art to change the world.