Former CIA agent Jim Marcinkowski explains how outing an agent threatens national security. Pulitzer Prize-winning author Alice Walker recounts the real message of The Color Purple.

Former Detroit mayor Dennis Archer discusses the safety and security of Rosa Parks' legacy. The Boondocks creator Aaron McGruder admits there can be repercussions for pushing the envelope too far.

Best-selling author Vince Flynn talks about his newest thriller, Consent to Kill. Sen. Ken Salazar, one of the "Gang of 14," critiques Judge Alito's Supreme Court nomination.

Janis Karpinski, former commanding general of Abu Ghraib, says she found out about her demotion from a reporter. Ed McMahon shares what made Johnny Carson special.

Sen. John McCain explains why he wrote his new book, Character is Destiny. Rapper-actor-TV host Xzibit examines the impact of his life choices on his career progression.

Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin says many presidents have trouble during their second terms. Reggae artist Damian Marley reflects on being the son of an icon.

Political analyst Dr. Larry Sabato discusses the significance of yesterday's election results. Actress Teri Garr reflects on her highs & lows in Tinseltown and coming to terms with MS.

Mary Francis Berry shares the backstory of her new book about ex-slave Callie House and reparations. Alternative rock singer-songwriter Liz Phair critiques podcasting as a new outlet for her career.

Cornel West and Sylvia Hewlett discuss their recent study on hidden biases against people of color in corporate America. Composer Burt Bacharach talks about using his music to comment on the state of the world.

Middle East expert Robert Fisk discusses the latest developments in Jordan and the case for war in Iraq. Actor Philip Seymour Hoffman talks about his latest role in the critically acclaimed film Capote.

John Lahr, playwright and senior theater critic for The New Yorker, discusses his new book and recounts the life of August Wilson. Actress-model Iman reflects on being a cosmetics mogul.

Former Democratic presidential nominee Sen. John Kerry weighs in on the escalating tension over the war in Iraq. The "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul," Mary J. Blige, discusses her new lifestyle and new album, "Breakthrough."

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa grades himself on his performance. Lark Galloway-Gilliam, Executive Director of Community Health Councils, laments the lack of healthy food options in urban communities.

Renowned writer Maya Angelou discusses the meaning of friends, family and life and talks about her upcoming holiday TV special.

Author Jonathan Kozol discusses segregation in school systems. Actor Elijah Wood talks about the impact on his life of the Lord of the Rings film trilogy.

Xavier University President Dr. Norman Francis describes the new board designed to address Louisiana's recovery needs. Christopher Kennedy Lawford shares how his previous substance abuse has shaped him.

Religions scholar Reza Aslan explains why Islam is growing so fast in the U.S. Actress Hope Davis, star of three upcoming films, says she never expected to work in show business.

Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Bonnie Raitt discusses her musical style and activism and also performs a song from "Souls Alike," her first new studio set in three years.

Author Salman Rushdie critiques the world's ability to process multiculturalism. Cirque du Soleil director Franco Dragone discusses his newest production, Le R've.

CNBC's personal finance correspondent Sharon Epperson discusses the consumer debt problem in America. Actor Oded Fehr talks about his role in Showtime's new miniseries, Sleeper Cell.

From San Quentin's death row, former gang leader Stanley Tookie Williams talks about his murder conviction, what makes life behind bars livable, his clemency petition and whether he fears execution.

Director Ron Howard reflects on making Cinderella Man and finding his niche in the entertainment business.