What if purpose wasn’t just a buzzword, but the key to resilience in business, life, and leadership?

Speaking of Purpose is where we sit with the big questions, challenge the old narratives, and uncover the deeper forces shaping the way we work and lead. Each episode features candid conversations with inspiring changemakers—unpacking insights that matter, breaking down the research, and sharing real stories of impact.



If you believe in work that makes a difference, in leadership that lasts, and in businesses that walk the talk, this is your space.

In a time when division is drowning out connection, could the key to unity be… a simple conversation? In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Sandra Clark, CEO of StoryCorps, to explore the contact hypothesis — a psychology-backed idea showing how meaningful dialogue builds understanding across differences.

Sona and Sandra unpack how StoryCorps’ One Small Step program brings people together for open, non-political conversations that focus on human connection. From real-world stories of empathy to surprising research insights, this episode highlights the quiet power of listening to bridge divides and strengthen community.

Since this interview was recorded, StoryCorps has lost over $2M in federal funding. Support stories of discovery, connection and hope here → https://donate.storycorps.org/

Learn more about One Small Step → https://takeonesmallstep.org/

00:00 Corporate Role in Political Dialogue

05:57 Journalism vs. StoryCorps: A Reflection

07:03 Unseen Stories of Blended Heritage

12:02 Bridging Divides through StoryCorps

14:14 "Rising Violence and Lost Faith"

17:10 "Bridging Divides: Wayne and Alton"

20:25 "One Small Step: National Conversation Movement"

24:34 Navigating Business and Diversity Integration

27:05 Value-Driven Storytelling in ERGs

31:32 "Authenticity in Modern Leadership"

34:40 "Neuroscience of Storytelling and Listening"

36:43 Inspiring Business Listening Sessions

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In this episode of Speaking of Purpose, host Sona Khosla sits down with Carolyn Berkowitz, former President and CEO of ACCP (Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals), to unpack the shifting dynamics in corporate purpose that have accelerated beyond imagination in just the last few years. With more than three decades in the field, Carolyn reflects on how corporate social responsibility has evolved from CEO pet projects to a strategic business imperative, and what happens when that work gets caught in the political crossfire. Together, they explore how companies are adapting their language and approach to meet changing expectations, the cautious rebranding inside boardrooms and why today’s social impact leaders are under more pressure than ever. From crisis response playbooks to quiet legal reviews, this conversation offers a rare look inside the complex reality of corporate approaches to environment, social and governance.

This episode was recorded in 2024; some government policies have evolved since the time of the conversation.

🔔 Love the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and rate us!

📧 Want to work with us? Find out more at benevity.com.