On this episode of That Said with Michael Zeldin, we bring you an encore presentation of Michael’s May 2022 conversation with David Gergen, focusing on his insightful book, Hearts Touched by Fire: How Great Leaders Are Made. In light of the ongoing discussions surrounding the leadership qualities of our next president, we believe revisiting this conversation offers valuable lessons and perspectives.

About Our Guest

David Gergen, a professor of public service at Harvard Kennedy School and founding director of the Center for Public Leadership, has a distinguished career spanning academia, politics, and journalism. He has served as a White House adviser to four U.S. presidents—Nixon, Ford, Reagan, and Clinton—and chronicled these experiences in his best-seller, *Eyewitness to Power: The Essence of Leadership, Nixon to Clinton*.

Gergen's work at Harvard focuses on mentoring the next generation of leaders, including social entrepreneurs and military veterans. He also contributes as a senior political analyst for CNN and has been a prominent voice in public affairs for over 30 years, earning accolades including Peabody and Emmy awards.

Gergen's commitment to leadership extends beyond academia, with active roles on several non-profit boards and initiatives aimed at fostering ethical leadership. A veteran, Yale and Harvard Law graduate, and member of the Council on Foreign Relations, Gergen brings a wealth of experience to discussions on leadership and legacy in turbulent times.