EP 142: High Stakes Finance to a Mission for Unity in America with Adam Mizel

In this episode of THE POWER OF RE:INVENTION, Kathi Sharpe-Ross talks with Adam Mizel, co-founder and CEO of US United, about his unexpected journey—from high-stakes finance to leading a national movement for unity.

Adam grew up in New Jersey with dreams of making it big on Wall Street. For years, he thrived in the fast-paced world of finance, negotiating billion-dollar deals and treating every day like a high-stakes battle. He embraced the challenge, but as his career evolved, so did his perspective. When his wife became pregnant with their first child, Adam started questioning what success really meant. After years of bouncing between roles in private equity and leadership positions, he found himself drawn to something more meaningful—creating a space for people to reconnect in an increasingly divided world.

Now, as the leader of US United, a non-partisan nonprofit dedicated to breaking down social and political barriers, Adam travels the country fostering real conversations and leading initiatives like the Concert for Unity and 30 for Us.

This episode is about stepping away from what’s expected and building something that truly matters. If you’ve ever felt like you were chasing a dream that no longer fit, this conversation is for you.If you want to be a unifier and bring people together in your everyday life, here are 10 things you can do for unity—any day, anywhere:

1. Wear Purple – A universal color of unity and a simple way to spark conversation about coming together.

2. Take the Unity Pledge – Commit to listening, understanding, and finding common ground with those around you. (Check out US United’s pledge!)

3. Join a 30 for Us Event – Get out of your bubble and engage in real, meaningful conversations with people from different backgrounds.

4. Support the Holiday Spectacular – Participate in a community-driven initiative that spreads joy and connection during the holidays.

5. Reach Out to Someone You’ve Lost Touch With – Reconnect with an old friend, co-worker, or family member to rebuild relationships and bridge past differences.

6. Start a Unity Challenge – Encourage friends or co-workers to step outside their comfort zones, talk to someone new, or volunteer together.

7. Help Someone Out—No Strings Attached – Whether it’s a kind word, buying someone coffee, or lending a hand, small acts of generosity can create ripples of connection.

8. Break the Social Media Bubble – Challenge yourself to follow and engage with perspectives different from your own, and promote messages of understanding.

9. Host a Unity Dinner or Meetup – Gather people from diverse backgrounds to share a meal and real conversations—because food has always been a great unifier.

10. Lead by Example – Speak up for inclusion, promote respect in your community, and make unity a part of your everyday interactions.

Unity isn’t just a big event—it’s a daily mindset. The more we show up for each other, the stronger our communities become.

Key Takeaways:

• The definition of success changes as life unfolds—stay open to where it leads.

• High-pressure careers shape us, but true fulfillment comes from purpose.

• Social media shapes our perceptions, but real conversations change lives.

• True leadership is about connection, not control.

• Small, meaningful actions can ripple into large-scale impact.

US United Website: https://www.us-united.org/

US United IG: https://www.instagram.com/us_united_org/

Adam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adammmizel/

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