• Episode 7: The Future of College, Housing, and Work in America with Marc Norman, Associate Dean at NYU’s Schack Institute of Real Estate
    Jun 27 2025
    In this episode of Building Bridges: That Which Unites Us, Michael Hershman speaks with Marc Norman, Associate Dean at NYU’s Schack Institute of Real Estate, about the rising cost of college, New York City’s housing crisis, and the future of the job market. Drawing on decades of experience in urban development and housing equity, Dean Norman offers insights on expanding access to education and housing, the importance of school–industry partnerships, and how urban planning can help create stronger, more inclusive communities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    34 mins
  • Episode 6: From Brooklyn to Beijing: Stephon Marbury’s Fascinating Journey
    Jun 27 2025
    In this episode of Building Bridges, Michael Hershman sits down with NBA All-Star and former Knicks point guard Stephon Marbury to discuss his journey from Coney Island to China’s basketball scene. Marbury shares thoughts on the Knicks, the NIL system, youth sports, and his mission to help the community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    43 mins
  • Episode 5: Dr. Vin Gupta on The Future of The Healthcare System
    Jun 10 2025
    On this episode, Dr. Vin Gupta, a Harvard-trained pulmonary and critical care physician, public health expert, and major in the United States Army Medical Reserve Corps, joins the show. Dr. Gupta shares his diverse experiences, from guiding Amazon Pharmacy's COVID-19 response to leveraging technology for patient-centered healthcare at Manatt, Phelps, and Phillips. He discusses the public's distrust in the American healthcare system, challenges like high costs, unequal access, and insurance denials, and suggests solutions for improving engagement in preventive care. The conversation also covers topics like medical misinformation, the potential and pitfalls of AI in healthcare, and the rise of wellness and genetic testing trends. Dr. Gupta highlights the importance of regulation in medical marketing and supplements, and reflects on his journey into medicine driven by a passion for global health diplomacy and public service. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    48 mins
  • Episode 4: Farmlands to Frontlines with Mitzi Purdue
    May 29 2025
    In this compelling episode of Building Bridges, host Michael Hershman sits down with Mitzi Perdue — author, humanitarian, and global advocate — to explore her remarkable journey from American farmland to international conflict zones. They discuss her work supporting war-torn communities, combating human trafficking, and continuing the legacy of two iconic American business families. Mitzi shares powerful stories from her travels to Ukraine and beyond, emphasizing resilience, dignity, and the human cost of war. This episode highlights the importance of empathy, service, and action in bridging divides and defending human rights in a turbulent world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    48 mins
  • Episode 3: Restoring Balance in Health and Happiness with Dr. Richard Firshein
    May 8 2025
    In this episode of 'Building Bridges,' host Michael Hershman engages in a conversation with Dr. Richard Firshein, an integrative medicine physician with over 25 years of experience. They discuss the declining happiness levels in the U.S., the importance of community, and the role social media plays in modern dissatisfaction. Dr. Richard Firshein shares insights into how connectedness and happiness contribute to longevity and well-being. The conversation touches on the challenges of the healthcare system, the benefits of integrative medicine, and the inherent value of humor and personal connections in fostering mental health. Dr. Richard Firshein emphasizes the significance of addressing the root causes of unhappiness and the need to re-prioritize values in society. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    50 mins
  • Episode 2: Restoring Public Trust Through Dialogue with Richard Esposito
    Apr 3 2025
    On this episode of Building Bridges: That Which Unites Us, host Michael Hershman sits down with Richard Esposito, an award-winning journalist, author, and communications strategist. In this engaging conversation, the two explore the evolving landscape of journalism and its profound impact on democracy. They also tackle the challenges of promoting meaningful dialogue in a divided society, drawing on their own experiences and the insights shared by citizens on the street. Learn more at BuildingBridges.nyc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    57 mins
  • Episode 1: The Role of AI in Strengthening Democracy with Arthur Leopold
    Apr 3 2025
    On the debut episode of Building Bridges: That Which Unites Us, host Michael Hershman is joined by successful serial entrepreneur Arthur Leopold, CEO & Co-Founder of Agentio, a cutting-edge AI-driven platform that amplifies personal narratives and creates moments for individuals to connect and share their experiences. Together, they explore New York’s depth of talent, prominence in the emerging world of AI, and highlight how technology and innovation can shape democratic engagement in the face of evolving challenges. Learn more at BuildingBridges.nyc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    47 mins