The Authority Company

Why does the U.S. healthcare system feel so complex, expensive, and impossible to fix? In this eye-opening episode, healthcare strategist Judith Kunisch joins Joe Pardavila to demystify the labyrinth of American healthcare through the lens of her book, The Center of the Star: Understanding and Changing the US Healthcare System. Drawing on decades of frontline experience—from bedside nursing to Fortune 100 executive leadership—Kunisch breaks down the system’s five interconnected sectors (patients/consumers, payers, providers, policymakers, and the "health industrial complex") and reveals why sustainable change must start from the "center of the star." Judith shares powerful stories—like saving Hartford’s maternal health program by bridging insurers, policymakers, and providers—and debunks myths about AI’s limits in diagnosis. For anyone overwhelmed by healthcare’s complexity, this conversation offers clarity, hope, and a actionable framework for change.

In this profoundly moving episode, Sandy Lundy joins Joe Pardavila to share the heartbreaking story of her son Shane, who died by suicide in 2018 after enduring relentless bullying—a pain Sandy never saw coming. Raw and honest, Sandy discusses how bullying evolves beyond childhood into digital cruelty and adult complacency, revealing why victims often suffer in silence and how society’s "casual cruelty" normalizes harm. Sandy’s mission—inspired by Shane’s hidden kindness to others—unveils the power of "Earth Angels": everyday people whose small acts of integrity (like a teacher who saved Sandy’s own future) can alter destinies. Through grief, guilt, and hope, she calls on listeners to lead by example, combat digital toxicity, and recognize their ripple effects in a world desperate for compassion. Her book Earth Angels is a rallying cry: ordinary actions can heal an extraordinary brokenness.

Join Joe Pardavila on The Authority Company Podcast for an eye-opening conversation with hospitality pioneer Travis Wilburn. As the architect behind The 100 Collection – a revolutionary portfolio of invitation-only, professionally managed vacation rentals – Travis unveils why traditional platforms like Airbnb fail luxury travelers and how his company is becoming the "Michelin Guide of luxury short-term rentals." In this episode, you’ll explore: How overtourism and Instagram culture have transformed travel expectations, why booking direct saves guests 15-20% versus Airbnb/VRBO, and the surprising truth behind "influencer-driven" tourism (including Beyoncé’s game-changing $10k Airbnb stay that reshaped the industry). Travis breaks down the dark side of vacation rental oversaturation and reveals how The 100 Collection partners with elite local operators (averaging 25+ years in hospitality) to deliver trusted, unforgettable stays from cozy retreats to 32-guest estates. Why this matters now: With post-pandemic travel demand shifting and regulations tightening in destinations like Charleston and Iceland, Travis explains how his model protects communities while offering access to extraordinary properties you won’t find on mainstream platforms. Learn why he champions local management companies as the "Ritz-Carltons of vacation rentals" and how The 100 Collection’s bootstrapped growth to 80+ destinations (and counting!) is rewriting the rules of luxury travel. Connect & Explore: 🌐 Visit the100collection.com [https://the100collection.com/] to discover curated escapes

Joe Pardavila welcomes Joycelyn David, author of The Multicultural Mindset: Driving Business Growth in a Borderless Era, to tackle the complexities of fostering multicultural understanding in a world increasingly divided over DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). Amidst political headwinds and shifting cultural norms, Joycelyn shares her journey as a global leader and unveils her groundbreaking concept of MQ (Multicultural Quotient)—a dynamic framework for navigating today’s interconnected, AI-driven world. From humorous anecdotes like the "bubble tea incident" to poignant reflections on identity and belonging, Joycelyn argues that embracing cultural diversity isn’t just ethical—it’s a strategic advantage. Learn why terms like "multiculturalism" are more vital than ever, how to avoid performative "diversity theater," and why bridging cultural gaps requires humility, curiosity, and leadership courage. Whether discussing the pitfalls of tribal thinking, the power of immersive experiences, or the superpower of a hyphenated identity, this conversation offers actionable insights for leaders, marketers, and anyone striving to thrive in a borderless era. Tune in to discover how turning discomfort into dialogue can unlock growth—and why your multicultural mindset might just be your greatest asset.

Joe Pardavila sits down with Buddy Teaster, President and CEO of the global nonprofit Soles4Souls, which transforms lives through clothing and shoe donations. Buddy opens up about steering the organization through crisis, turning financial turmoil and reputational challenges into a thriving mission that serves millions. Discover how Soles4Souls balances philanthropy with earned revenue, using innovative programs like For the Planet, For Opportunity, For Relief, and For Every Kid to create lasting impact. Buddy shares hard-earned leadership lessons from his book From Tailspin to Tailwind, including the critical role of board governance, the emotional weight of succession planning, and his leadership philosophy. He also reflects on overcoming personal and organizational loss, and why “no margin, no mission” is key to sustaining nonprofit work. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, or simply inspired by stories of resilience, this episode offers profound insights into turning crisis into clarity, the power of compassionate leadership, and building a legacy that outlives your tenure. Watch or listen now to uncover how purpose-driven leadership can transform lives—and why caring might just be the most undervalued strategy in business.