The Interview with Leslie Heaney

Last week, I had the distinct honor and pleasure to interview Jean Becker on her new book Character Matters: And Other Life Lessons from George H.W. Bush.

I wanted to interview Jean as soon as I heard about Character Matters.

I am writing this email on election day knowing this episode will be released tomorrow, November 6th.  No matter the outcome of the election, half of our country will be distressed and demoralized by its outcome. The example of the life and service of President Bush is a message that our seemingly divided country needs now more than ever.

Jean Becker served as chief of staff for President George H.W. Bush for nearly twenty-five years. She’s the editor of Pearls of Wisdom by Barbara Bush and author of the New York Times bestseller The Man I Knew: The Amazing Story of George H.W. Bush’s Post Presidency. Her latest book, Character Matters: And Other Life Lessons from George H.W. Bush, was released in April 2024.

In this episode, Jean tells hilarious, poignant, and compelling stories about President Bush. She shares anecdotes about how President Bush cast political differences aside, embraced bipartisanship and put his country before himself.  

From calls with world leaders, to befriending his SNL impersonator Dana Carvey to enlisting George Clooney for a hospital opening because he loved his character on ER, Character Matters is a collection of essays from those who knew him best.  

In today's political climate, all of us should embrace the life lessons and legacy of George H.W. Bush as an example of how to come together as Americans.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

In the United States alone, 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, and women have a 1 in 43 chance of dying from the disease. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, so before this month ends, Leslie sits down with Dr. Vandana Abramson, superstar breast cancer specialist. 

Dr. Abramson is a medical oncologist specializing in the treatment of Breast Cancer. She is a Professor of Medicine, holds the Donna S. Hall endowed chair, and co-leads the Breast Cancer Research Program at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center here in Nashville.

When she is not maintaining a busy clinical practice, Dr. Abramson has extensive experience leading clinical trials for breast cancer and has co-authored over 100 papers on breast cancer.  A graduate of The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, she completed her Internal Medicine Residency at Harvard’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital before completing her Hematology/Oncology fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Abramson also serves on the National Cancer Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) breast cancer guidelines committee.

In this episode, Leslie talks with Dr. Abramson about high risks for developing breast cancer, the latest in screenings, uncommon symptoms, what to look for in a doctor, and the exciting new developments and research that is happening right now to find a cure. 

If you want to know everything you need to know about breast cancer, this is an episode you will not want to miss. 

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

In today’s episode, Leslie sits down with renowned developmental psychologist Dr. Aliza Pressman to talk about her New York Times bestselling book, The 5 Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans

Aliza is also the Co-Founding Director of the Mount Sinai Parenting Center, and assistant clinical professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the host of the award-winning podcast Raising Good Humans.

Leslie and Aliza talk through each of these principles of parenting – all of which are backed by science – and explore how using these tools can help our children develop resilience.

This episode is a must listen for any parent out there…

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

In today’s episode, Leslie sits down with lifestyle expert, parent, author, entrepreneur and old friend, Alexis Swanson Traina.

Among all the fabulous hats Alexis wears, Alexis is the Founder and CEO of HiNOTE a free app that allows individuals to text, post and share personalized, digital notes -- everything from invitations to birthday wishes, thank you notes and more in just a few taps…. this service is as unique and glamorous as Alexis herself…so make sure to download it in the App Store.

In this episode, Alexis and Leslie talk about her background, her inspiration for HiNOTE, and the juggling act of her life as an entrepreneur, mom, wine connoisseur, hostess and much, much more…

This is a conversation you won’t want to miss…

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

Today’s episode is all about cannabis! 

Have you ever wondered what is the difference between CBD, THC, Hemp, Cannabis?  Or why is cannabis legalized in some states and not others? What’s its history?  What markets are growing in Europe and worldwide?

Today, Leslie has all the answers to these questions and more.  Leslie is sitting down with Will Muecke, a real expert in the cannabis investment space. 

Will is the co-founding managing member and Chief Investment Officer for Artemis Growth Partners.  Artemis is a private equity platform dedicated to investing 100 percent in the cannabis industry worldwide. 

Artemis Growth oversees $400 million in assets under management.  Before Artemis, Will was the co-founding managing partner of CoreCo private equity and the former co-head of the healthcare services sector in the healthcare investment banking group at Goldman Sachs.   

In our conversation, Will and Leslie talk about the history of cannabis and its criminalization, the state of cannabis in the United States today, the growth of cannabis in European markets and the future of cannabis in both the U.S. and worldwide.

If you ever wanted to know more about cannabis as a cannabis consumer, an interested investor, or just for talking points at your next dinner party… this is an episode for you…

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday/

Today, Leslie is sitting down with celebrity interior designer, Vicky Charles. 

Vicky leads the juggernaut design firm, Charles and Co. Consistently voted as one of Architectural Digest’s TOP 100 Interior Design Firms, with offices in New York, London and Bassano, Italy.  Vicky has a flair for producing imaginative and eclectic interiors for both residential and commercial projects worldwide.

Having worked as the Design Director at Soho House for twenty years, Vicky’s reputation for defining the Soho House aesthetic precedes her, as does the amazing interiors she has designed for her celebrity clients like the Clooneys, Beckhams, Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher, Harry Styles, the list goes on.

In this episode, Vicky and I talk about her incredible career – how she got her start waiting tables at the Soho House to working her way through the ranks to its Design Director, her following her passions, her design inspirations, her balancing work and family…..and what’s next for Vicky Charles….

This is an episode you won’t want to miss. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

A Harvard survey found that 44% of Gen Z young adults feel like they don't matter to others and 34% reported loneliness.  A Gallup survey found that 31% of Gen Zers ages 12 to 26 often don’t feel loved, 35% often don't feel supported, and 30% always or often feel like nobody knows them well. 

While these statistics are alarming, thankfully there is a movement working to address this crisis. In this episode, Leslie speaks with Dr. Sarah Bennison.  Dr. Bennison is the CEO and Co-Founder of The Mattering Movement.  

Dr. Sarah Bennison is an educational leader, activist, and founder of Trinity School (NYC) Office of Public Service, a thought leading service-learning initiative engaging students, faculty, families and alumni in ongoing, meaningful community engagement work and social impact curriculum. She started her career in New York City public schools in the South Bronx and has more than twenty-five years of teaching and leadership experience. She is also an adjunct professor at New York University.

Dr. Bennison co-founded the Mattering Movement along with journalist Jennie Wallace who is the author of bestselling book Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic-and What We Can Do About It, two other remarkable women, Kimberly Kravis and Kim Towner. 

The Mattering Movement is working to address the pandemic of loneliness and despair that is plaguing our children and adolescents today.  

Dr. Bennison and Leslie talk about this crisis facing our kids and what you can do to help your children and even yourselves develop a happier more fulfilled life – a life that “matters”. This is an episode you will not want to miss…

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday." 

Leslie is thrilled to be back with Part Two of her conversation with the incredibly talented Grammy-nominated recording artist, songwriter, activist, and filmmaker John Forté.  

In Part 1 John and Leslie talked about his incredible life leading up to his producing the Fugees multi-platinum record, The Score, and his subsequent collaborations with Wyclef Jean. Part 1 ended with John’s arrest at Newark Airport following a drug sting operation. 

We pick up here in Part 2 where Leslie and John talk about his time in prison, the commutation of his sentence by President George W. Bush, and, most importantly, the amazing life, family, and career John has built since then…

John’s story is one of promise, hope, redemption, and love… Tune in to Part 2 with John Forté!

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review. Be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

I am very happy to be back after my brief summer hiatus to bring to you a truly inspirational story of someone who has experienced all of life’s highs and lows and has come through it all thanks to grace, resilience, great friends, and incredible talent.

Today I am honored to be speaking with Grammy-nominated recording artist, songwriter, activist, filmmaker and friend, John Forte. John is probably best known for writing and producing songs for The Fugees and their multi-platinum record The Score, and for his subsequent collaborations with Wyclef Jean.

After huge success as a producer in the late 90s and following the tough unsuccessful (in John’s mind at the time) release of his first album, Poly Sci, John went into a deep isolation. Then when an opportunity presented itself for him to work as a middleman connecting people who were acting as drug couriers, John took it. His focus was less on the work he was doing and more on what he could do with the money he was making – make more music.

In July of 2000, Forté was arrested at Newark International Airport. As he explained to GQ magazine back in 2022, “I was picking up two carriers who had already been cooperating in a controlled sting, because they’d been caught and apprehended with 14 kilograms of liquid cocaine,” he says. He was sentenced to the mandatory minimum of 14 years and incarcerated at FCI Loretto, a low-security federal prison in Pennsylvania.

With friends like Carly Simon and with support from an unlikely ally then Senator Orin Hatch from Utah, Forte’s case was presented to President George W Bush for commutation and his sentence was commuted. After serving 7 years, John was finally free.

John left prison and went on to do what he was always called to do – make music. For more than two decades, John has produced solo albums and a myriad of collaborative projects.

John is currently composing the score and writing/producing the soundtrack for the forthcoming “Kerouac’s Road: Beat of a Nation” for Universal, he also recently scored the forthcoming 6-part HBO series “Eyes on the Prize”.

John’s music has also been featured in films and television, including the Emmy-nominated “Momentum Generation” for HBO. John also created The Brooklyn Nets inaugural theme song back in 2012, a very personal thing for him as a Brooklyn native.

The film, The Russian Winter, was released in 2012, following John’s concert tour through Russia while exploring his life up until then. A second film about John’s life is currently in production, Settling the Score.

John is also very involved in prison reform and social justice initiatives – all while he is enjoying his life as a father of two living on Martha’s Vineyard.

In this two-part interview – John and I talk about his upbringing, his incredible career, his time in prison, his incredible commutation by President Bush and all the amazing work he has accomplished since then - not to mention the wonderful life he has built – savoring the simple pleasures in life like fishing and being a Dad, while writing, making music and producing films.

John’s story is one of promise, hope, redemption, and love. His life and example move and inspire me - I know it will you too...

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, and follow us on Instagram at The Interview with Leslie. A new podcast is released every Wednesday.

In this episode, Leslie sits down with Tom Seeman, author of the compelling memoir, Animals I Want to See.

Tom's extraordinary journey takes us from the projects of Toledo, Ohio, where he grew up as one of twelve children in extreme poverty, to the hallowed halls of Yale and Harvard Law School.

Tom's story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the impact of unexpected heroes. From neighbors to teachers, Tom's life was shaped by mentors who saw his potential and guided him toward success.

Today, Tom enjoys a thriving career in private equity and dedicates himself to giving back to the institutions and organizations that played crucial roles in his transformation.

Join Leslie and Tom as they delve into the experiences that forged his character, the challenges he overcame, and the lessons he learned along the way. 

Tune in for an uplifting discussion that will not only inspire you but also reignite your belief in the power of perseverance and the potential for positive change, no matter where you start in life.

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram ⁠@theinterviewwithleslie⁠.

The hottest topic today for women in their 40s and 50s – both literally and figuratively - is menopause!

For something that is one of just two certainties in life for women - menopause and death – it is shocking how little OB/GYNs know about menopause or how few women are getting adequate treatment to relieve some of the crippling symptoms of perimenopause. 

The statistics are staggering – 80 percent of Ob/gyns are untrained in menopause, 75 percent of doctors are uncomfortable talking to patients about menopause symptoms and 75 percent of women who seek care don’t receive any treatment.

In this episode, Leslie speaks with Joanna Strober, CEO and co-founder of Midi Health.  

Joanna has spent her career building businesses that unlock the potential of women and their families. It was Joanna’s own experience struggling with the symptoms of menopause, yet finding no answers, that led her to create Midi Health.  

Midi Health is a virtual care clinic created by specialists in perimenopause and menopause and it is covered by insurance.

Herself a Midi patient, Leslie talks with Joanna about what women can do to treat the symptoms of menopause - from hormone replacement therapy to prescriptions to supplements and lifestyle changes.  

For our female listeners, get ready to take lots of notes as the episode is filled with tons of information and tips for managing your menopause.  For our male listeners, this episode is for you too! At some point you will have a woman in your life that will go through menopause, and you need to know what’s in store.

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram ⁠@theinterviewwithleslie⁠.

Have you ever wondered how celebrities on the red carpet look so amazing? How do they have the perfect hair that lasts for hours? Who are the creators behind these magical looks? 

In today’s episode, Leslie sits down and speaks with “The Hollywood Hitmaker of Hair” –  Adir Abergel. Adir is the creative force behind some of the most memorable moments in celebrity hairstyling. His work has been seen gracing the covers of magazines, red carpets, and runways worldwide. 

Adir’s client list contains some of the biggest names in Hollywood: Kristen Stewart, Rooney Mara, Marion Cotillard, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kristen Dunst, Reese Witherspoon, Anne Hathaway, and the list goes on and on…

From collaborating with Mario Testino and Annie Leibovitz to styling shoots for Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, even creating looks for Dior and Chanel… Adir has been transforming the hair industry since his early days as an apprentice for hair guru Arthur Johns. 

Adir is also the Creative Director for Virtue Labs - a revolutionary hair care brand that is the first to use pure, human Keratin in its products.  

On top of all that, Adir has won countless awards for his work. He most recently received the Hair Artist of The Year at @dailyfrontrow Los Angeles Fashion Awards – an honor presented to him by his dear friend and client Jennifer Garner. 

This conversation between Adir and Leslie is entertaining and full of life stories, celebrity anecdotes, and all of the best-kept hair secrets that Adir shares with his A-List clients. 

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram ⁠@theinterviewwithleslie⁠.

Tune in for part 2 featuring world-renowned mezzo-soprano opera superstar,⁠ Denyce Graves.⁠

Denyce has graced all the major world opera house stages and concert halls during her 30+ year long career. From humble beginnings to winning a Grammy for Best Opera Recording, Denyce's talent is unmatched. 

Leslie and Denyce discuss her greatest mentors, inspirations, the three tenors, and her greatest passion - ⁠The Denyce Graves Foundation. ⁠

Founded in 2021, The Denyce Graves Foundation focuses on educating and mentoring the future generation of opera singers while honoring the history of vocal artists that are less known but have had a major impact on the arts in America. Their motto: "Artistic excellence has no racial, physical, or economic limitations."

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram ⁠@theinterviewwithleslie⁠.

Tune in for a new episode featuring world-renowned mezzo-soprano opera superstar, Denyce Graves.

Denyce has graced all the major world opera house stages and concert halls during her 30+ year long career. From humble beginnings to winning a Grammy for Best Opera Recording, Denyce's talent is unmatched. 

Leslie and Denyce discuss her greatest mentors, inspirations, the three tenors, and her greatest passion - The Denyce Graves Foundation. 

Founded in 2021, The Denyce Graves Foundation focuses on educating and mentoring the future generation of opera singers while honoring the history of vocal artists that are less known but have had a major impact on the arts in America. Their motto: "Artistic excellence has no racial, physical, or economic limitations."

Leslie and Denyce had such an amazing conversation that we are splitting it into two parts! Part two will be released on July 10, 2024 at 7 AM EST 

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie.

In honor of the fashion shows in Paris this week, we are reaching into The Interview’s archives to bring you Leslie’s interview with fashion icon, Deeda Blair.   

The woman Harper’s Bazaar calls, “the very embodiment of style and substance”, Deeda Blair, A Force for Good is a conversation not to be missed. 

Listen to Episode 13 of The Interview with Leslie and step into the magical world of Deeda Blair — legendary hostess, fashion maven, and a force for good with her extraordinary philanthropic work in science and medicine.

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie.

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NEXT WEEK! Stay tuned for a new episode featuring world-renowned mezzo-soprano opera superstar, Denyce Graves.

In this episode, Leslie and Denyce talk about her rise from humble beginnings to the stage of the Met, her career as one of the greatest ever mezzo-soprano opera singers and her life’s work of supporting students of color in the classical vocal arts through her teaching and the work of her foundation, the Denyce Graves Foundation. Leslie and Denyce also discuss her exciting new residency collaboration happening right in Leslie’s neighborhood. 

Tune in to this new episode, next Wednesday, July 3rd.

As Benjamin Franklin once said, nothing in life is certain except death and taxes. Yet many of us are wholly unprepared for the inevitable. We have a lot of questions… “How can we pass along our estate and protect our assets? Do we need a trust? What if we can no longer make decisions for ourselves? And how can we pass along our assets without tax liability?” There are so many questions surrounding estate planning. 

In this episode, we have two of the most well-respected experts in estate planning, David Posner and Jillian E. Merns of Willkie Farr and Gallagher. David and Jillian are both Partners of Willkie’s Private Wealth Group. 

Their practice focuses on counseling high-net-worth individuals and family offices on various legal matters, including estate planning and estate/trust administration. They have extensive experience in the development and execution of sophisticated estate plans and wealth preservation techniques, including the preparation of complex wills, trusts, and related instruments. 

In today's episode, Jillian and David provide an incredible overview of the estate planning process, what we should all be thinking about, what documents and tools we need, what the best practices are, and advice for how we should be structuring our estate. 

It was an incredible privilege and honor to have such superstars on the podcast. I learned a tremendous amount from them both and I know that you will too. If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie.

The number of women who die giving birth in the U.S. each year has doubled in the last two decades.  Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy related complications, and 80% of maternal deaths in the U.S. could have been prevented.  These are just some of the staggering statistics on women’s healthcare in the U.S.

Dr. Denise Howard has devoted her career to women’s health care.  Specifically, she works tirelessly to help identify ways that health practitioners and hospital systems can deliver first rate preventative care and interventions so that women’s health problems are diagnosed early, and so that women’s health care emergencies are identified and treated so that no woman falls through the cracks.

Dr. Howard is the Site Chief at New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Vice Chair in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Weill Cornell Medicine, and an Associate Professor of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology.  A native of Columbus, MS., Dr. Howard completed her undergraduate work at the University of Mississippi and then attended Johns Hopkins, receiving a MD in 1993. She completed a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Pittsburgh’s Magee Women’s Hospital in 1997 and then a fellowship in Urogynecology at the University of Michigan.

In this episode, Dr. Howard talks with Leslie about disparities in women health outcomes – from female cancer diagnoses to maternal mortality – and the practices and procedures that can be implemented to address them.

Dr. Howard is a real inspiration. Leslie learned so much, and thoroughly enjoyed their conversation – she knows you will too. If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie.

In today’s episode, Leslie sits down with Lacy Garcia -- Founder and CEO of Willow.

Willow is an award-winning platform that connects women, Gen X, Millennial and Gen Z consumers with their ideal financial advisor. Like a dating app, Willow provides a free concierge matching service to individuals, connecting them with the best fit financial advisor who they can connect with on a personal level.

Lacy started Willow after her own personal experience of going through a divorce as a young mom and needing an advisor who could both support her through this life transition, and help her reach her financial goals.

In this episode, Lacy and Leslie discuss all kinds of financial tips -  the importance of financial literacy and the value of having financial goals. They touch on various topics including budgeting, emergency funds, 529 Plans, and retirement investing.  

Whether you are looking for financial ideas, are curious about how to find a good advisor, or just want to be inspired by a woman who started a company in response to a need she saw in the marketplace - tune in to this episode!

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie.

In today’s episode, Leslie sits down with Ed O’Keefe — an award-winning TV producer, reporter, and author. While as a Harvard Kennedy School Fellow, O’Keefe stumbled upon some unpublished letters between Theodore Roosevelt and two of the most important women in his life: his daughter Alice and his sister Bamie.

As a lifelong admirer of Roosevelt, Ed delved into the influence these relationships had on Roosevelt and his rise to the Presidency in his debut novel, “The Loves of Theodore Roosevelt – The Women Who Created a President”.

Ed and Leslie talk about Roosevelt’s incredible life and legacy and the women in his life that gave its shape and meaning, they explore Roosevelt’s legacy and the incredible museum that is being built in his honor in North Dakota led by Ed as the new CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation.

For history lovers, this is an episode you don’t want to miss! If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. 

As we near the end of May, Mental Health Awareness Month, Leslie sat down with Dr. Corinne Catarozoli - a leader in pediatric integrated care at Weill Cornell Medicine.

Dr. Catarozoli is an expert in evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and young adults with anxiety disorders. Her specialties include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and pediatric behavioral medicine.

Dr. Catarozoli and Leslie talk about the three most common types of mental illness affecting children: anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues. They discuss what parents can do to identify these mental health issues, the best treatments available for these conditions, and where parents can go to find mental health providers who are trained in evidence-based treatment.

Grab your pen and paper, and get ready to take some notes as this episode is incredibly informative and impactful.

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie.

Today, I am very excited to be speaking with architect extraordinaire, Peter Pennoyer.

Peter is the founding partner of Peter Pennoyer Architects, New York-based architecture and design firm. He's a member of Architectural Digest AD100, a fellow of the American Institute of Architects, and the 2024 recipient of the Richard H. Driehaus Prize, one of the most prestigious awards in the architecture industry.

He's the co-author of six books on 20th Century American Architects and the author of A House In The Country, written with his wife, interior designer Katie Ridder. Recent projects include a house for the Jeff Koons family, an art deco-style apartment building on Madison Avenue, and Rowdy Meadow, an award-winning Czech-Cuban-style house in Ohio.

The firm's newest book, Peter Pennoyer’s Architect: City | Country, was published by Vendome Press in the Fall of 2023. In today's episode, Peter and I talk about his inspirations, his creative process, beautiful historic architecture in and around New York, and about his new book City | Country.

In this episode, Leslie sits down with Zibby Owens -- publisher, author, and host of "Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books", an award-winning podcast.

Zibby has been referred to as New York City's "most powerful 'bookfluencer." She just released her latest book, Blank: A Novel. She also has two other bestsellers, "Bookends: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Literature" and a children's book called "Princess Charming."

On top of her own writing, she is the co-founder and CEO of Zibby Books publishing house, owns an independent bookstore in Santa Monica, CA., and runs what is referred to as "Zibby-Verse" -- a community of book lovers for which she offers retreats, classes, special events, and more.

Leslie and Zibby discuss her inspirations and how this mom of four finds time the time to sleep all while creating an entire literary universe.

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie.

Today I'm honored to be speaking with Kate Doerge. Kate's daughter, Penny passed away in November 2022 from Neurofibromatosis (NF) - the most common genetic disorder in children, yet one of which there is still no cure.

In the wake of Penny's passing, Kate, her husband Chad, their family, friends and Penny's friends founded the Penny's Flight Foundation. The work and mission of this foundation has turned into a national movement to find a cure for NF. All who were touched by Penny have approached the mission of Penny's Flight with the same boundless positivity, joy and enthusiasm that defined Penny's life.

To kick off the month of May, which is Neurofibromatosis Awareness Month, Kate and I talk in this episode about Penny's incredible life and legacy and what she and communities across the country are doing to raise awareness and funds to find a cure for NF.

Get ready to be inspired by Kate, her family, and friends who have transformed a great loss into an incredible movement to honor beloved Penny and to make a difference in the lives of others.

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie.

In today’s episode, Leslie speaks with expert pediatrician Dr. Sallie Permar. Dr. Permar is Chair of the Department of Pediatrics at Weill Cornell Medicine and Pediatrician-in-Chief at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and NewYork-Presbyterian Komansky Children’s Hospital.

Leslie and Dr. Permar talk hot topics in pediatric medicine – ones that are not necessarily making headlines – but issues that are on the minds of America’s top pediatricians…and should be on all of our minds too!

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie.

In today’s episode, Leslie sits down with Ted Giovanis – a person who lives life to its fullest – an expert in Medicaid and Medicare regulation, an advocate, philanthropist, author and race car driver.

Ted and Leslie do a deep dive into his landmark court case against the federal government for failing to properly reimburse hospitals resulting in a multibillion-dollar settlement for hospitals nationwide. They talk about the foundation he created following this judgment in his late wife’s honor – focused on cancer research and its $35 million dollar gift to Johns Hopkins to further that research.

Leslie and Ted also explore his life as a race car driver and race team owner – and all at the age of 78! Leslie was left inspired by Ted’s extraordinary life, career and the life lessons he imparted….she knows you will leave feeling inspired too...

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

In today’s episode, Leslie sits down with world-renowned chef, Daniel Boulud, and the man behind Chef Boulud’s Restaurant Group, Dinex Group CEO, Sebastien Silvestri.

Daniel and Sebastien talk about their careers, inspirations, favorite dishes and the secret sauce to their creating and maintaining critically acclaimed restaurants worldwide. Leslie is still pinching herself getting to spend the afternoon with these brilliant, funny and extraordinary talents…

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

In Episode 18, Leslie speaks with Shavar Jeffries, CEO of the Kipp Foundation.

The Kipp Foundation supports KIPP schools, a national network of charter schools educating more than 120,000 students in grades Prek-12 across 21 states and Washington, DC.

Leslie and Shavar talk about his inspirational life story and career, the challenges facing education today, and the incredible impact of KIPP schools and the KIPP Foundation on providing access to a transformative education for underserved children throughout the United States.

In today’s episode, Leslie speaks with Dr. Scott Small, Director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Columbia University. Dr. Small is globally recognized as an expert in Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive aging. He has been researching the disease for decades and his lab has pioneered MRI techniques that have identified areas of the brain most affected by aging and disease.

Leslie talks with Dr. Small about his new book, Forgetting: The Benefits of Not Remembering, exploring how forgetting is not only normal and good, but also a necessary and positive function for our brains. She also explores Alzheimer’s Disease, any steps we can take to help prevent the onset of the disease, the latest therapies, drugs available, and what the future holds for Alzheimer’s treatment…

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

In this episode, Leslie speaks with bestselling author, Christine Coulson. Christine worked at the Metropolitan Museum of Art for 25 years and left as Senior Writer in 2019. That same year, her debut novel about the museum, Metropolitan Stories, became a national bestseller.

In October of 2023, Coulson released her second book, One Woman Show, a groundbreaking novel written almost entirely in museum wall labels. Christine shares insights into her strict writing process, the creation of memorable characters, and a behind-the-scenes look at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

I am so thrilled to be sharing this interview with renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Doug Steinbrech. Dr. Steinbrech is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons and specializes in male aesthetics.

He is ranked among the top ten plastic surgeons in NY, with offices on Park Avenue, in Beverly Hills & Magnificent Mile in Chicago. Forbes Magazine calls him the “go to surgeon for men” and Men’s Health says “he is one of the few plastic surgeons in the US who specialize in men.” Dr. Steinbrech has also been featured in Wall Street Journal, The New York Times & Hamptons Magazine.

Dr. Steinbrech is not only an expert in his field, but hilarious and a joy to talk to.....

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

In today’s episode, Leslie speaks with author Lea Carpenter about her latest novel, Ilium. In its recent review, The New York Times refers to this spy thriller as an “unexpectedly moving novel.”

Before becoming the author of national bestsellers, Eleven Days and Red White and Blue, Lea had a fascinating career working in publishing for magazines like John F. Kennedy’s George, Francis Ford Coppola’s Zoetrope and The Paris Review. She also had a foray into politics working with Beau Biden when he was attorney general of her home state of Delaware.

Leslie thoroughly enjoyed learning more about Lea’s fascinating life and inspiring career as an author - you will too.

If you enjoy The Interview with Leslie, please subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

Listen to Episode 13 and step into the magical world of Deeda Blair – legendary hostess, fashion maven and a force for good with her extraordinary philanthropic work in science and medicine. You may know Deeda a style icon, but may not know about the incredible impact of her life’s work as a healthcare advocate.

Join Leslie as she delves into an engaging conversation with Deeda Blair about her extraordinary life. This episode includes wonderful stories about Deeda's days as a socialite and hostess in Washington and New York, her time spent with important historical figures, and her defining legacy as a healthcare advocate including her most recent effort, The Deeda Blair Research Initiative for Disorders for the Brain.

To learn more or to support The Deeda Blair Research Initiative for Disorders for the Brain, visit fnih.org, or contact Susan Shillinglaw at 301-402-6027 or [email protected].

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In this episode, Leslie speaks with Dr. Andy McCullough a highly respected cardiologist and internist in New York City who has been recognized as a Top Doctor by New York Magazine consecutively for many years.

After training at Mount Sinai where he rose to the rank of Chief Fellow and serving as both an attending physician at New York Presbyterian and an assistant professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College, Dr. McCullough is now a partner at the concierge doctor’s service, MD2 on Park Avenue in Manhattan.

An expert internist and cardiologist, Leslie speaks with Dr. McCullough about what steps we can take to stay healthy and live longer lives.

In Episode 11, Leslie catches up with interior design extraordinaire, Ashley Whittaker. Listed on Elle Décor’s A-List of top designers, Ashley’s work has been published in The New York Times, Architectural Digest, Veranda, Southern Living, Coastal Living, Domino, and most notably, on the cover of House Beautiful on six separate occasions.

Described as a “neo-traditionalist”, Ashley’s projects reveal a fresh and modern perspective on traditional design and architecture. Ashley’s work is featured in her incredible book, A Well-Loved House, published by Rizzoli in 2021.

In this episode, Leslie explores how Ashley got started, her rise in the interior design business and her decision – when at the peak of her career- to pursue another professional path.

In Episode 10, Leslie speaks with Emmy-winning producer and writer Pamela Ryckman about her latest biography, Candace Pert: Genius, Greed, and Madness in the World of Science – the true story of scientist, activist and trailblazer Candace Pert. Pert’s groundbreaking research and book Molecules of Emotion introduced the world to the mind-body connection, the opioid receptor and an HIV treatment known as Peptide T.

Pamela talks about Candace’s extraordinary life, discoveries and fierce competition in the male-dominated world of science and Big Pharma. Candace Pert has received shining reviews including the Wall Street Journal, “Exemplary research, balanced accounts, and deeply evocative prose... A truly insightful narrative on what it can mean to be a woman at the cutting edge of science.”

In addition toCandace Pert, Leslie talks with Pamela about her first book,Stiletto Network, her own extraordinary career and the transformative effects of women supporting women in the workforce… Don’t miss this episode!

In Episode 9, host Leslie Heaney sits down with the fabulous Veronica Swanson Beard -- co-founder and visionary behind the fashion powerhouse, Veronica Beard. From the modest beginnings of the dickey jacket to the global sensation it is today, this episode explores the ascension of the brand and one of the amazing women behind its creation.

Veronica Beard has not only conquered the US with dozens of stores but is now taking on the international market with stores in London, Toronto, and Seoul. Hear firsthand the fashion-filled adventure from $100 million in 2018 to a whopping $250 million in sales this year!

Beyond the runway, Leslie and Veronica talk about family, inspiration, growth and what's next for Veronica Beard the brand, and Veronica Beard herself.

In episode 8, host Leslie Heaney dives into the extraordinary life of New York legend, Jamie Niven! Former Chairman of Sotheby's The Americas and philanthropic powerhouse, Jamie has raised over $800 million for over 750 causes through his unparalleled auctioneering skills.

But that's not all – before Sotheby's, Jamie conquered the realms of investment banking and private equity, all while dedicating his time and talent to numerous philanthropic endeavors from serving as a member of the Boards of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Bloomberg Philanthropies Board to serving as Chairman of The Partnership to End Addiction. Jamie's impact has been felt far and wide.

In this episode, Jamie takes us on a journey through his thrilling career and shares insights into his remarkable life as the son of Hollywood icon, David Niven. Get ready to be captivated by Jamie's brilliance, entertained by his hilarious anecdotes, and inspired by his dedication to making a difference.

If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, rate, and review The Interview and follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

Close to 50 percent of all marriages in the United States end in divorce. Whether you’re going through a divorce or know someone who is, understanding how it works is one way to make better decisions or provide better guidance.

In Episode 7, Leslie talks with renowned divorce attorney Donald Lockhart Schuck. Don is a Partner and head of the Family Law Group at the firm Pryor Cashman in New York City. He has been hailed as a top family law attorney by Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers every year since 2007 and was recently named a Lawdragon 500 leading Family Lawyer for 2024.

Don is not only Leslie’s former boss, (as she was also a family law attorney for a few years), but he is also one of the most highly regarded matrimonial attorneys in New York. Tune in to Episode 7 to better understand divorce law, a person’s rights, and the process.

If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, rate and review The Interview and follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

Have you ever put down an amazing book- one you absolutely cherished and wondered how it got written and published? Today you’re going to find out because in Episode 6 we’re talking with celebrated literary agent, Elisabeth Weed.

Elisabeth is going to give us a glimpse into the fascinating world of book publishing, including discussing her own journey from working for a publishing house, to teaming up with other women in the industry to create the incredibly successful agency, The Book Group.

The Book Group’s clients include award-winning novelists and illustrators, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists and dozens of New York Times bestsellers.

Elisabeth has had a fascinating career – she knows what makes a great book and how to sell it….and after listening, you will too….

If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, rate and review The Interview and follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

College admissions is on many people’s minds this week as high school seniors receive early admissions decisions….

Tune in to episode 5 to get an insider’s look at one of the hottest topics today - the college admissions process- when Leslie talks with college admissions consultant extraordinaire, Nuria Rubert.

Regarded as an expert in her field for over twenty years, Nuria has guided hundreds of students and parents through the grueling and competitive landscape of modern college admissions.

If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, rate and review The Interview and follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

This week’s episode is a conversation with megahit reality tv show producer, Matt Sharp of Sharp Entertainment. His stable of blockbuster shows include 90 Day Fiancee, Man vs. Food, Doomsday Preppers – and the list goes on!

Learn about Matt’s incredible career and get an inside look behind how these hits shows are made….it doesn’t hurt that Matt is hilarious and brilliant too!

If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, rate and review The Interview and follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

As the old adage goes, a parent is only as happy as their unhappiest child. In this episode, host Leslie Heaney sits down with Dr. Rachel Shelley, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in the treatment of childhood anxiety. With the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging societal pressures, and the shift towards an individualistic culture, it's no wonder childhood anxiety rates have nearly doubled in the past few years.

In episode 3 of The Interview With Leslie Heaney, Leslie and Dr. Shelley explore how parents can identify signs of anxiety in their children, and then implement strategies to help their children manage it successfully.

Whether you're a parent or haven't become one yet, Dr. Shelley's strategies are also good for grown-ups with anxiety!

If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, rate, and review The Interview and follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

In this episode, Leslie speaks with Eleanor Acquavella. Eleanor helps run the world-renowned Acquavella gallery alongside her brothers and her father, art world legend, Bill Acquavella. Regarded as one of the most distinguished and esteemed art galleries in the world, the over one-hundred-year-old Acquavella Galleries is located in Manhattan and specializes in 19th, 20th, and 21st-century works.

Displaying the perfect combination of brilliance and humor, Eleanor offers a rare glimpse into the landscape of the art market - from the inner workings of her eponymous gallery to the world of high-end art dealing and collecting.

If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, rate, and review The Interview and follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

This week, Leslie sits down with the legendary photographer, Douglas Friedman, and discusses everything from his days in college, his early years as a photographer, his passion for architecture, and how Martha Stewart made him the perfect baked potato.

If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, rate, and review. Follow us on Instagram @theinterviewwithleslie. A new episode is released every Wednesday.

First two episodes LIVE on 11/22/2023