If you're a fan of the movie National Treasure, you will love this week's episode! I’m joined by Dr. Aubrey Paris, co-founder of the National Treasure Hunt Podcast and former senior policy advisor at the U.S. Department of State working on the nexus of gender equality and climate change. Together, we dive into what it means to carve out your own path, break barriers in male-dominated spaces, and lead with both curiosity and courage. If you’ve ever wondered how to blend passion, innovation, and leadership into a career that inspires others, this conversation will leave you ready to claim your seat at the table.

In this episode of The Head of the Table, Nora sits down with Sameer Hossain, Founder and CEO of Pathfinder Policy Strategies LLC, to explore how international religious freedom intersects with diplomacy, national security, and global development. Together, they unpack what it means to protect faith rights in complex political environments, the role of governments and multilateral actors in advancing freedom of belief, and how inclusive policy frameworks can drive long-term stability. This fireside chat offers a candid look at the evolving global landscape of religious freedom — from policy coordination to personal conviction — and why upholding this fundamental right remains central to international cooperation today.