Coffee with Ken

American Progress: Policy, Power & The People | Neera Tanden (CAP President & CEO)

What does real American progress look like today? Ken Biberaj sits down with Neera Tanden, CEO of the Center for American Progress and former senior advisor to three U.S. presidents, for a candid conversation about policy, power, and the people public service is meant to serve. From helping pass the Affordable Care Act to shaping landmark legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act, CHIPS and Science Act, and bipartisan infrastructure law, Neera reflects on what it actually takes to turn big ideas into real change — and why lowering the cost of living, expanding access to healthcare, and fixing America’s housing crisis remain urgent national priorities. The conversation also explores the realities of governing, the challenges of modern political communication, the rise of AI and energy demand, and what the 2026 midterms may signal about voter frustration and economic anxiety. If you’re curious about how policy gets made — and how it impacts everyday lives — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

America's Hidden Health Crisis | Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Richard Carmona

What if the buildings around us are shaping our health—without us even realizing it? Former U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona joins Ken Biberaj live at Georgetown University during International WELL Building Institute DC Policy Day to unpack the hidden crisis of indoor air quality. From COVID-era HEPA filters to healthier building design, Dr. Carmona explains why “the environment is never neutral”—and what leaders must do next. If you care about public health, workplace performance, or the future of our cities, this episode is a must-listen.

Navigating the Age of AI | Jason Palmer

What does it take to thrive in the Age of AI? Ken Biberaj sits down with Jason Palmer — AI innovator, investor, and former presidential candidate — for a candid, fast-moving conversation about the future that’s already here.From EdTech to entrepreneurship, policy to productivity, Jason breaks down the opportunities and risks shaping our next decade. He also shares how he built an AI-powered version of himself on the campaign trail — and why the people who understand AI will define the future.If you’re curious about how AI will transform work, education, and society, you won’t want to miss this episode.

Juliann Edwards | The Nuclear Frontier and America’s Energy Future

As America’s demand for energy surges—from AI data centers to advanced manufacturing—a once-forgotten power source is making a comeback. Juliann Edwards [https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliann-edwards-51a27413/], Chief Development Officer at The Nuclear Company [https://www.thenuclearcompany.com/about] and Chair of Women in Nuclear, joins Ken to explore how nuclear innovation is shaping the future of American power, competitiveness, and clean energy leadership.

Building the Middleburg Film Festival | Arts, Community & Storytelling

What happens when art becomes the bridge between culture, community, and conversation? In this special episode of Coffee with Ken—guest-hosted by Ernie Jarvis— Sheila Johnson [https://www.salamanderhotels.com/our-story/] (Founder of the Middleburg Film Festival, Co-Founder of BET, and Founder & CEO of Salamander Hotels & Resorts) joins Susan Koch [https://middleburgfilm.org/who-we-are] (Emmy & Peabody Award–winning filmmaker and Executive Director of the Middleburg Film Festival) to explore how storytelling connects people and sustains communities. Unlike larger festivals, Middleburg is built on intimacy—world-class films screened in a small town with no permanent theater, conversations after every showing, and a spotlight on the unsung heroes behind the camera, especially composers. It’s where hospitality meets humanity. Whether you’re a filmmaker, entrepreneur, or creative at heart, this episode is a reminder that meaningful growth never loses sight of purpose—or people.