Ethnomusicologist

Rick Smolan is the co-founder of the America 24/7 and Day in the Life photography series -- and a natural storyteller in many media. His latest books are America at Home and Blue Planet Run.

Mindy Scheier is the founder of the Runway of Dreams Foundation. Prior to launching the nonprofit, Mindy spent over 20 years working in fashion as a key member of the design team for the INC collection and stylist for Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City.

Tanya Menon speaks, writes and consults on collaboration. Her research focuses on how people think about their relationships and the habits that allow them to build positive connections with other people.

As a child growing up in North Korea, Hyeonseo Lee thought her country was the "best on the planet." It wasn't until the famine of the 90s that she began to wonder. She escaped the country at 17-years-old to begin a life in hiding as a refugee in China. Hers is a harrowing, personal tale of survival and hope -- and a powerful reminder of those who face constant danger, even when the border is far behind.

Alex Steffen explores our planet's future, telling powerful, inspiring stories about the hard choices facing humanity ... and our opportunity to create a much better tomorrow.

Luvvie Ajayi Jones is a two-time New York Times bestselling author, podcast host and sought-after speaker who thrives at the intersection of humor, media and justice.

DK Osseo-Asare creates architecture with and for the people that design overlooks.

Nadia Lopez is the founding principal of Mott Hall Bridges Academy, where she is showing the world how underprivileged communities can beat the odds and create positive institutions that have a global impact.

Sethembile Msezane deconstructs the act of public commemoration -- how it creates myths, constructs histories, includes some and excludes others.

Kate Darling investigates the relationship between humans and robots -- now, and in the future.

Tzeporah Berman is the Chair of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative and the international program director of Stand.Earth.

Human rights activist

In Hans Rosling’s hands, data sings. Global trends in health and economics come to vivid life. And the big picture of global development -- with some surprisingly good news -- snaps into sharp focus.

Gretchen Carlson is a tireless advocate for workplace equality and women's empowerment.

Joy Buolamwini's research explores the intersection of social impact technology and inclusion.

Margaret Bourdeaux investigates the best ways to protect, recover and reconstruct health systems and institutions disrupted by war or disaster.

Zubaida Bai innovates health and livelihood solutions for underserved women and girls around the world.

Carolyn Jones creates projects that point our attention towards issues of global concern.

Nina Fedoroff writes and lectures about the history and science of genetically modified organisms.

Ivan Coyote believes that a good story can help inspire us to invent a better future.

Health care innovator