From small-town East Tennessee to sold-out stadiums, Kenny Chesney’s journey has always been fueled by connection—between people, place, and song. In Heart Life Music, Chesney reflects on the moments that shaped him: the end of a high school football dream, the spark he found on a barstool with a guitar, and the Nashville of his early days, rich with characters, legends, and creative grit. In conversation with acclaimed music journalist Holly Gleason, Chesney shares the personal stories behind the music that defined a generation and built No Shoes Nation. Together, they explore the search for identity, the meaning of home, whether in Tennessee or by the ocean, and how heart, hustle, and honesty turned a young dreamer into one of contemporary country music’s most enduring voices.

Anderson Cooper and Dax Shepard will come together in a candid conversation about the many forms of grief and the unexpected ways it shapes a life. Drawing on Cooper’s recent work exploring loss and meaning and Shepard’s openness about vulnerability and family, the two will reflect on how we process grief publicly and privately, how we carry it forward, and how telling our stories can offer connection and healing. Their exchange will balance humor and humanity while offering attendees a resonant, compassionate look at one of life’s most universal experiences.

In his documentary series The American Revolution, Ken Burns revisits the founding struggle that reshaped a continent and redefined the meaning of liberty. With his signature archival depth and narrative sweep, Burns examines the war not only as a military conflict but as a human drama that is marked by idealism, division, sacrifice, and uncertainty. Joined by journalist and historian John Avlon, Burns reflects on the Revolution’s competing visions of freedom, the ordinary people who propelled extraordinary change, and the unresolved tensions embedded in the nation’s birth. Together, they consider how the Revolution continues to inform contemporary debates about democracy, citizenship, and the responsibilities of a self-governing people.

In Chain of Ideas, bestselling author Ibram X. Kendi traces the rise of “great replacement theory” across the globe—from its origins in Europe to its adoption by politicians and influencers worldwide—and examines how it has fueled fear, division, and authoritarianism. In conversation with Cleo Wade, Kendi explores the historical roots and modern consequences of this ideology, and offers insight into how societies can confront it and protect democratic norms.

Rick Atkinson reflects on the Revolutionary War and the fragile, improbable birth of the United States, drawing from his latest work, The Fate of the Day: The War for America. In conversation with Gen. David H. Petraeus, Atkinson examines the military strategy, political uncertainty, and individual leadership that shaped the struggle for independence. Their discussion explores how battlefield decisions, civilian resolve, and international dynamics converged at a decisive moment in history, illuminating the contingencies, sacrifices, and competing visions that defined the nation’s founding.

In conversation with Susan Orlean, bestselling narrative historian Erik Larson reflects on the art behind the storytelling. Known for transforming archival research into immersive page-turners, Larson discusses how he chooses his subjects, builds narrative tension, and brings historical figures vividly to life. Anchored by his latest book, The Demon of Unrest, this lively exchange offers an inside look at the creative routines, instincts, and occasional surprises that shape his work.

In a rapidly shifting global landscape, how should the United States respond to rising conflicts, strategic competition, and emerging threats? Gen. David Petraeus joins journalist Jim Sciutto to examine the challenges shaping American foreign policy today, from military strategy to diplomacy, and what they mean for global stability in the years ahead.

If the 20th century was shaped by industrialists and elected officials, the 21st century is being shaped by founders, platform architects, investors, and media ecosystems. In conversation, Kara Swisher and Walter Isaacson explore how power has shifted in America, who now influences public life, and how innovation can be guided by democratic values.

When time runs out, what do we really have? Salman Rushdie reflects on belonging, regret, and the cost of our choices in The Eleventh Hour: A Quintet of Stories, moderated by George Packer.