Kai Ryssdal

Emmy Award-Winning Journalist, Host and Senior Editor of American Public Media’s Marketplace, Co-Host of the “Make Me Smart” Podcast

Topics: Economy, Moderator, Host & Emcee, Communication, World Affairs, Media, Politics, Thought Leadership, Business

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Biography

Over the last 20 years, Kai has been the host and senior editor of Marketplace, the most popular program on business and the economy – radio or television, commercial or public broadcasting – in the country. He also co-hosts the podcast Make Me Smart.

Kai won an Emmy Award in 2012 for Outstanding Investigative Journalism on a PBS Frontline documentary about money in politics entitled Big Sky, Big Money. His written work has been featured in The New York Times and The Atlantic. He is frequently called on as an event and panel moderator at such conferences as the Aspen Ideas Festival, Atlantic Ideas, Fortune Brainstorm, and Fast Company Innovation. Kai also speaks regularly with policymakers, including the Federal Reserve Chair, the Secretary of the Treasury, and the Director of the White House National Economic Council. He interviewed President Obama twice in the Oval Office and once on a folding chair in the middle of the Nevada desert.

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Blog Posts

Leading with Humanity in a Tech-Driven Future with Lisa O’Neill

Explore how to prepare for the future while balancing innovation and transformation with with Kate O’Neill, chief tech humanist and author of What Matters Next.

How Great Mothers Raise Even Better Leaders

Celebrate Mother’s Day by exploring how maternal leadership lessons—in listening, resilience, clarity, purpose, and storytelling.

A Complete Guide to Kill Complexity & Spark Innovation

What if innovation and breakthrough ideas came from working simpler ideas? Learn insights on simplify your workflow with keynote speaker Lisa Bodell.

Why Creativity Is Your Organization’s Most Critical Skill

Keynote speaker Natalie Nixon explains why creativity is essential for innovation and growth, and how leaders can embed creative thinking into their businesses.

Life Mission Statements and Mental Health with Johnny Crowder

Dive into real-life strategies for mental health, resilience, and culture change with keynote speaker Johnny Crowder.

Next-Gen Event Trends That You Must Know

Stay ahead for your next event with trends like with personalization, well-being, diversity, immersive tech, and sustainability—plus pro tips & insider links.