What does it take to lead a nation to be equal parts compassionate and powerful, to lead with empathy while efforting swift change?

Well, my guest today knows all about that. At just 37 years old, Jacinta Ardern was elected Prime Minister of New Zealand,

making her the country's youngest prime minister in 150 years. She ran on a platform of positivity,

empathy, and action. And less than a week after being elected, Ardern learned she was pregnant.

She would become just the second elected head of government

ever to give birth in office. During her time as prime minister, Ardern faced challenges, including a

global pandemic and terrorist attacks. Yet still, she led from her heart and took swift action.

After five and a half years as prime minister, Ardern stepped down from office, and the reason

might surprise you.

Well, now she's a senior fellow at Harvard University, and as of this moment, also an author.

Her memoir is called A Different Kind of Power.

It's deeply personal and chronicles her extraordinary rise.

I sat down with Jacinta Ardern at the Temple Emmanuel Stryker Center in front of a live audience.

Her story is powerful, inspiring, and I have to tell you, I laughed way more during this conversation than I had expected to.

I hope she leaves you encouraged and optimistic.

I know she did for me.

I'm Hoda Kotli.

Welcome to a special episode of my podcast, Making Space.

Thank you. Wow. Well, hello. Hi there. How are we feeling? Well, the house lights are up, which is a little

different than usual, but so intimate. Hello, everyone. I love it. I love it. I'm so looking

forward to this conversation with you, Jacinda. I love the dedication of your book. I know you guys

all have a copy. In a date says you dedicate this to the criers, theinda. I love the dedication of your book. I know you guys all have a copy.

...