In today’s conversation on Mighty Forces, Amanda is joined by two extraordinary community builders: Maryam Banikarim, founder of The Longest Table, and Venu Gupta, who helped bring the concept to life in Chicago. Together, they explore what it takes to create belonging in a time when loneliness is on the rise—and why small, everyday actions still hold enormous power. Maryam shares the simple spark that launched The Longest Table during the pandemic which grew into an annual hyperlocal celebration where thousands gather to share a meal, meet their neighbors, and feel a renewed sense of agency. Venu reflects on what moved her from inspiration to action, the fears she had about hosting her own event in Chicago, and the moment of unexpected magic that happened during the first event. Their stories show how connection—real, human connection—still surprises us, delights us, and expands our sense of what’s possible. This episode is a reminder that community doesn’t require grand gestures—just a willingness to look up, reach out, and create space for one another.

Topics:

• Why some people act on inspiring ideas while others don’t
• How belonging is built through invitation rather than responsibility
• Why grace, curiosity, and trust matter more than perfection
• The quiet power of small, compassionate gestures
• The magic that happens when we stop treating each other like strangers

Episode Resources:

• The Longest Table Community on Instagram
• Tribe by Sebastian Junger

Resources:

• Mighty Forces
• Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn
• Follow Amanda on Instagram

Mighty Forces is produced by Amanda Hirsch and Heart Centered Podcasting. The music of Mighty Forces was written and performed by Jordan Hirsch, aka my wonderful husband.