This month, discover fresh perspectives from leading experts tackling today's biggest questions, from rebuilding trust in science to navigating the future of work, the economy, and human connection.
Leadership How to Tell Governments What You Think August 5, 2026. Virtual
Join Aspen Policy Academy to learn broad principles for communicating to policymakers, as well as specific tips for sharing your opinions with Congress, executive branch officials, and even the courts. Learn more.
Leadership The American Economy in a New Era August 5, 2026. Aspen, CO
As AI, inflation, and global tensions reshape the economy, Erik Brynjolfsson and Peter Orszag join Melissa S. Kearney to discuss how the US can strengthen long-term growth and global competitiveness. Learn more.
Societal Trust Science, Public Health, and the Politics of Truth August 6, 2026. Aspen, CO
Peter Hotez, professor and dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, explores the growing politicization of science—and what it will take to strengthen public trust in medicine and scientific institutions in the years ahead. Learn more.
Societal Trust Can We Talk? How Linguistic Style Can Make or Break Relationships August 10, 2026. Virtual
Linguist and best-selling author Deborah Tannen examines how subtle differences in the way we communicate can lead to misunderstanding, and how recognizing those differences can strengthen relationships at work and beyond. Learn more.
Leadership Happier Hours: Rethinking Time and Well-Being August 11, 2026. Aspen, CO
What if the key to greater happiness is in how we spend our time? Behavioral scientist Cassie Holmes joins Carolyne Heldman, host of the “Behind the Lens” podcast, to explore practical strategies for feeling less rushed and more connected to what matters most. Learn more.
Economic Opportunity The Impact of Foundational Skills on Workforce Success August 18, 2026. Virtual
Join UpSkill America and Lumina Foundation to explore new research and hear how employers are investing in foundational skills that build stronger businesses and create greater opportunity for workers. Learn more.
Leadership Writing a Public Comment August 19, 2026. Virtual
Gain a deeper understanding of what public comments are and how they are used, and develop strategies for crafting your own public comment to achieve policy change.Learn more.
Economic Opportunity Metrics that Matter: Improving Financial Analysis of CDFI Small Business Lenders August 26, 2026. Virtual
Join the Aspen Institute's Business Ownership Initiative for a conversation exploring a new framework designed to help leadership teams, boards, funders, and investors make more informed decisions. Learn more.
Looking Ahead
Economic Opportunity Aspen Ideas: Economy October 13-15, 2026. Tulsa, OK
Through signature roundtables, unexpected mainstage pairings, and immersive experiences in and around this storied city, the three-day event anchors the story of our global economy in real people, real places, and real dialogue, opening the door to a deeper understanding of the forces of change in our economy and our lives. Register here before early bird pricing ends this week.
Societal Trust Aspen Institute New Zealand Security Forum October 16, 2026. Queenstown, New Zealand
Join us as we bring together senior leaders from government, business, defense, and investment to examine the strategic shifts redefining security, resilience, and technological capability across New Zealand and the Pacific region. Modeled on the Aspen Security Forum, the program reflects the urgency for smaller advanced economies to remain technologically capable and strategically connected in an increasingly contested region. Learn more.
