A power-packed episode kicks off 2026 with an eclectic group of guests spanning entertainment, intelligence, healthcare, and tech. Entertainment executive Todd Barasch (Disney, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences) leads the role-play segment, delivering a masterclass in investor positioning that draws praise from the panel — "spot on" and "I would change nothing." Former Mossad operative Juval Aviv, whose life inspired Spielberg's Munich, makes his Heart of Influence debut and gamely plays Elon Musk in a surprise role-play opposite host Sean Callagy.

 

The episode features lively fun facts including Barasch's 15 trips to the Oscars (never nominated), a capsized sailboat on an Ontario lake, an F-16 flight with five instances of vomiting, and a cruise ship that actually sank. Technical chaos ensues when Callagy's bathroom floods and his entire tech setup fails minutes before showtime — but the blind host powers through, reminding viewers why the show is called "Unblinded."

 

Notable moment: A spontaneous exchange about a $22.5 million studio investment opportunity turns into an impromptu demonstration of Barasch's advisory value, with Callagy remarking, "Really impressed by you."

 

Runtime: Extended. Participants: 12. Verdict: High-energy, authentic, occasionally chaotic — exactly what this show does best.