Back in spring, guest host Mariana Caro sat down with Daria Maria Rodriguez, a student in the Negotiation and Conflict Resolution program at Columbia University. For Daria, peace is not just a passive political condition, but an active, daily practice rooted in empathy, humility, and the courage to engage in difficult conversations. Tune in to hear how she leveraged visual storytelling through a powerful conflict resolution photo exhibition, her empowerment as a woman in the peacebuilding field, and her mission to create safe, collaborative spaces where dialogue triumphs over hostility.

Mariana Quintana sits down with this week’s guest, Leah Barnes, whose professional and personal life has been a masterclass in navigating the art of a good pivot, to unpack a career defined by cultural friction and constant adaptation. This conversation dives deep into the moments and experiences that shape our identity. Learn and discover from Leah how she transforms challenges into a philosophy rooted in empathy, courage, and a deep sense of social responsibility.

What happens when your career path no longer aligns with your conscience? In this On The Table episode, listen to our guest who spent a decade as a professional architect before a series of volunteer trips fundamentally altered his worldview.

Guest host Mariana Caro sat down with Gabriel Feldman earlier in the year to talk about his transition from the world of architecture to the front lines of humanitarian aid and restorative justice. They dive deep into the concepts of systemic inequality, and his current work at Columbia University’s Center for Justice and Project Restore.

Mariana dives deep into her personal journey through the program, exploring how her perspective has evolved from conflict avoidance to a collaborative, empathetic approach. From the influence of her family to the rigorous academic frameworks of the field, this conversation explores the art and science of finding common ground.