How Peace Corps Director Dr. Jody Olsen Led 7,000 Volunteers to Safety—And What It Taught Her About Life

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Jody Olsen, former Peace Corps Director and global leader, about embracing courage, building trust, and making bold life decisions. From her unexpected leap into the Peace Corps in the 1960s to leading the evacuation of 7,000 volunteers during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Olsen shares her journey of stepping into the unknown, making high-stakes decisions, and fostering deep human connection across cultures.

We discuss:

• The Decision That Changed Everything -  How one moment led Dr. Jody Olsen to the Peace Corps and reshaped her entire life.
• The Power of Vulnerability and Trust - Why embracing uncertainty and relying on others is key to building strong relationships.
• Making Tough Calls Under Pressure - The inside story of how Dr. Olsen led the evacuation of 7,000 Peace Corps volunteers at the height of the pandemic.
• The Loneliness Epidemic & How to Rebuild Meaningful Connections – Why so many people feel disconnected today and practical ways to strengthen relationships in a digital world.

Challenge: At [00:51:47], Dr. Olsen shares her challenge: Tell a story, be a mentor, or find a hero. She urges us to connect more deeply by sharing wisdom across generations, offering guidance to others, and seeking role models in our everyday lives.

 

Resources: Dr. Jody Olsen’s book, A Million Miles Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam (on the power of community)