API Futures

Ascend
  • 5.0 (3)
  • BUSINESS

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.

  1. Gathered in Gratitude: From Giving to Impact

    11/19/2025

    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.

    26 min
  2. Civic Engagement as a Way Forward

    10/29/2025

    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.

    33 min
  3. Business Partnerships Built to Last

    10/02/2025

    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.

    32 min
  4. Leading for Our Future: CEO Talk

    08/26/2025

    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.

    36 min
  5. The Future of Work & AI

    06/24/2025

    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.

    35 min
  6. Leading Through Global Uncertainty

    05/28/2025

    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.

    26 min
  7. Changing the Game

    05/12/2025

    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.

    40 min
  8. Olympic Gold & Beyond

    03/27/2025

    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."

    44 min
See All (22)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Ascend
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Ascend
  • Show Website
    API Futures