In The CIW 5, we ask you to tell us the five CIW events that blew your mind. Today’s subject: CIW’s Executive Director Jessica Malkin, who was inspired, reinvigorated and renewed by the stories she heard on stage.

1. The Talk You Skipped Work to See (Well, Sort of)

If you haven’t yet, Jessica Malkin suggests you watch Martine Rothblatt’s Talk, now.

Leading Under Pressure
General David H. Petraeus, Planned Parenthood’s Cecile Richards, Johnson Publishing Company’s Desiree Rogers, The Misfit Economy‘s Alexa Clay. I’m not sure there’s ever been a lineup quite like this, and the leadership strategies they shared are ones I know I will be thinking about for years to come.

2. The Evening Talk You Invited All of Your Friends To

Top of Their Game: Entrepreneurs & Their Startup Stories
This is a no-brainer. The Talk was equal parts inspiring, informative, creative—you name it. If you need a pick-me-up, something to re-inspire your work or just a look into the mind of one Cubs fan (Barrington’s own Cynthia Rowley), you should check out the videos now.

3. The Conversation You Were Glad You Participated In

The Unraveling of the American Justice System
This Conversation could have gone on for hours, and I hope that all participants will keep the conversation going. If you haven’t yet, pick up a copy of Adam Benforado’s Unfair: The Science of  Criminal Injustice, join Shaka Senghor’s #cut50 in asking for justice reform now and learn about how you can gather for justice with Carmen Perez and other activists.

4. The Speaker Whose Ideas Absolutely Fascinate You

“Stories are hugely powerful. I actually think inspirational stories are the most powerful force that we have in human society,” entrepreneur Martine Rothblatt said from the CIW stage. And the stories she shared were hugely powerful, from her pioneering vision of Sirius Radio to her futuristic view of the Virtually Human.

5. The Conversation That Left You Speechless

Urban Innovation: Unlikely Solutions to Common Challenges
The innovations that are happening in our city are nothing short of amazing. Thanks to Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Urban Labs’ Timothy Knowles, Margot Pritzker and Mayor Michael Nutter for sharing the innovations that will change Chicago—and all cities—for the better.