API Futures

Hosted by Ascend

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Episodes

Latest episode

May 2026

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EN-US

About the show

The API Futures podcast presented by Ascend will feature in-depth conversations about the future of work with today’s global leaders. Guest hosts will join speakers from a wide range of industries as they share their experiences and identities, explore the power of cultural connection, and develop strategies for a more equitable tomorrow. We’ve selected an inspiring lineup of API rising stars, allies, and other diverse leaders whose values and voices align with our mission as we lead our communities forward.

Listen to episodes

24 recent

May 19, 2026Episode 2416 min

Unlocking Collective Genius

Moderated by CNBC Technology Correspondent Seema Mody, this conversation with Professor Linda Hill of Harvard Business School connects big-picture leadership frameworks to the realities executives face now: navigating uncertainty, unlocking diverse perspectives, and creating the conditions where innovation can drive impact.Drawing from her latest book, Genius at Scale, Professor Hill redefines today's leadership—highlighting how the most effective leaders operate not as solo visionaries, but as enablers of collective genius.

March 2, 2026Episode 2322 min

API Sports Legends: Beyond Beyond the Game

Recorded live in San Francisco’s Chinatown, this special episode of the API Futures Podcast captures the energy of the Big Game Block Party held on February 4, 2026.We’re joined by API sports legends for a powerful conversation on career-defining moments, resilience, and what it takes to break barriers at the highest levels of sport. Our guests share their journeys, the challenges they faced as trailblazers, and how they’ve helped shape the future of athletics and leadership.Featuring:Kristi Yamaguchi, Olympic Gold MedalistStephanie Hsiao, VP, International Business Operations, NFLNatalie Nakase, Head Coach, Golden State ValkyriesJesse Sapolu, 4-Time Super Bowl Champion

November 19, 2025Episode 2226 min

Gathered in Gratitude: From Giving to Impact

Hali Lee—Time100 Philanthropy 2025 honoree, founder of the Asian Women Giving Circle, and author of The Big We—joins award-winning journalist and 6abc anchor Nydia Han to explore the power giving back and igniting community-driven change. Hali shares how shared purpose, generosity, and coming together at the “kitchen table” can shape a more hopeful and impactful future.

October 29, 2025Episode 2133 min

Civic Engagement as a Way Forward

As Asian Americans become one of the fastest-growing electorates in 2025, civic engagement and nonpartisan action are key to navigating today’s challenges. Join Hannah Locop of APIAVote and Sunayana Dumala of AAPI’s Coming Together (FL) as they unpack the key issues facing our communities and share practical resources to strengthen representation and collective voice.

October 2, 2025Episode 2032 min

Business Partnerships Built to Last

Jennifer Tsay and Jennifer Yeh, the dynamic duo behind Shoott, are redefining how clients experience professional shoots through their standout photography platform–with over 750 freelance photographers in more than 60 U.S. cities. The Jennifers open up about what makes their partnership work, how diverse backgrounds (from investment banking to acting) shape their leadership, and what it really takes to scale a values-driven business. Whether you’re building with a co-founder or dreaming solo, their journey offers smart lessons and inspiration for any entrepreneur navigating growth, collaboration, and creative impact.

August 26, 2025Episode 1935 min

Leading for Our Future: CEO Talk

In a world defined by constant disruption, what does it take to lead with clarity, conviction, and purpose? Anne Chow—Founder & CEO of The Rewired CEO and author of Lead Bigger: The Transformative Power of Inclusion—sits down with David Liu, CEO of The Kinjo Group, for a thought-provoking conversation on what leadership looks like today and where it’s headed. Together, they explore the evolving demands of the C-suite, the leadership skills that matter most now, and how inclusion, adaptability, and values shape everything from team building to legacy.

June 24, 2025Episode 1834 min

The Future of Work & AI

AI is rapidly reshaping how we work. In this episode, Li Fan, CTO & CAO of Circle, explores how AI tools, predictive analytics, and automation are transforming talent management, decision-making, and corporate strategy. Moderated by Atlas CEO Jim McCoy, this conversation offers practical insights for leaders on adopting AI responsibly, balancing human and machine capabilities, and preparing for a more equitable, tech-driven future.

May 28, 2025Episode 1726 min

Leading Through Global Uncertainty

Fareed Zakaria, CNN GPS host and author of Age of Revolutions, joins Selina Wang, ABC News Senior White House Correspondent, at the 2025 Ascend A-List Awards to discuss today’s complex geopolitical landscape and share insights for global business leaders navigating unprecedented challenges.

May 12, 2025Episode 1639 min

Changing the Game

Basketball’s impact goes beyond the court—it’s about community, culture, and connection. Christopher Helfrich, CEO of Eat. Learn. Play. (Stephen and Ayesha Curry’s foundation) joins Golden State Valkyries' head coach Natalie Nakase and CEO Jess Smith to explore leadership and social impact in sports. From Natalie’s groundbreaking coaching career to Jess’s role in building the Valkyries franchise, this conversation dives into the future of basketball and its power to drive change.

March 27, 2025Episode 1544 min

Olympic Gold & Beyond

Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi—who made history as the first Asian American to win the achievement—joins Golden State Warriors hype man Franco Finn for a conversation about resilience, legacy, and giving back. Kristi shares the dedication behind becoming an Olympian, what it felt like to win gold, and the surprising first meal she had after. She also dives into life after the Olympics, from founding Always Dream, a nonprofit dedicated to children's literacy, to winning "Dancing with the Stars."