In the third episode, American bestselling nonfiction author and historian Russel Shorto joins us as our guest. He is best known for his book Amsterdam: A History of the World’s Most Liberal City. At a young age, he decided to become a writer, convinced that he had a valuable perspective on the world to share. It was a choice without guarantees and one that required perseverance, particularly once he started a family and the responsibility of providing for others.
The conversation explores courage at a time when long-held certainties are under pressure around the world. According to Russell, change often begins with one person willing to make a difficult choice. But meaningful change can only take root when others help create the conditions for it to grow. From Spinoza to Rosa Parks, history offers powerful examples of how individual courage can inspire lasting change. Sometimes, that means putting comfort, security or short-term profit at risk to do what is right in the long run. Listen to episode 3 of Moed Board with Russell Shorto.
About Moed Board
The guests featured in Moed Board come from diverse backgrounds, but share one thing in common: at a pivotal moment in their lives or careers, they made a courageous decision that changed the course of their journey.
Their stories offer recognition, fresh perspectives and practical insights for directors, supervisory board members and anyone who wants to lead with courage i. The conversations are personal, reflective and honest. Behind every important decision lies a story. Sometimes it begins in the boardroom; sometimes far beyond it. It is precisely at the intersection of professional responsibility and personal conviction that the most meaningful lessons emerge.
Through Moed Board, Houthoff explores what courage looks like in leadership and what leaders can learn from the choices that define us. Every week a new episode will air.
