Leadership LevelUp
Dr. Jeff Williamson
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Top 10 Leadership LevelUp Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Leadership LevelUp episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Leadership LevelUp for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Leadership LevelUp episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
As a Leader, Sometimes We Need to Be the Follower - Eric Peterson
Leadership LevelUp
08/09/23 • 19 min
In this episode of Leadership Level Up, Eric Peterson sits down with Jeff and Brian as he shares the foundation of his leadership approach.
The founder of Project Headspace and Timing, an organization dedicated to providing services for veterans, Eric Peterson echoes a sentiment that many great leaders share - that at times he doesn’t feel like one at all. (02:15) “There are moments where I feel like I’m taking charge, I have to take this and run with it and spearhead this project,” He says. “[But] throughout my life there have been many times where I’ve known that I needed to be a follower and not necessarily a leader in that moment, which I also think is also an important aspect of being a leader”
Eric’s humble approach shines through in how he views the types of respect a leader earns. For Eric, there is implied respect and earned respect. The former refers to the baseline respect conferred to a leader as a result of their position, whereas the earned respect can only be found after a leader demonstrates positive leadership qualities.
Listen to this episode of Leadership LevelUp to learn more about these positive leadership qualities Eric describes, as well hear about Eric’s leadership journey and how he works to help his Community.
Be sure to subscribe to Leadership LevelUp so you don't miss future conversations with great leaders!
MEET OUR GUEST
Eric Peterson is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Project Headspace and Timing, which since 2017 has aimed to help veterans in need. Raised in the Kankakee County Area, Peterson graduated from Herscher High School and went on to serve in the Army National Guard, serving in Afghanistan.
In 2020, Peterson received the Daily Journal’s Young Citizen of the Year Award and was placed on the Kankakee County’s 40 under 40 list by the Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce. He is an ordained minister for the Universal Life Church, currently works in Veteran Services for Banyan Treatment Centers, and lives in Manteno with his wife and children.
Dan Hofmeister: Leadership Lessons from the Legal Field
Leadership LevelUp
07/24/24 • 20 min
Welcome back! I'm your host, Jeff Williamson and today we are thrilled to continue our conversation with the insightful Dan Hofmeister, equity partner at Reed Smith LLP.
Listen to Part 1
In part two of this session, Dan takes us through the evolving landscape of the legal profession, focusing on the impact of technology and the recent shift to remote work driven by Covid-19. He shares how the transition from traditional legal libraries to digital resources has reshaped the profession and discusses the increasing role of AI, a development he describes as "the new frontier" in law.
Dan also delves into the challenges of training young lawyers in a hybrid work environment and emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity and values in legal practice. Reflecting on his work with nonprofits, Dan reveals how his commitment to these organizations enriches his professional life by allowing him to make meaningful contributions beyond corporate law.
A key takeaway from this episode is Dan's belief in the significance of finding joy and purpose in one's work: “There can be real joy in that process and in that profession if it's truly a profession and it's a calling and it's done meaningfully and purposely.”
So sit back and enjoy this thought-provoking discussion as we explore the intersections of leadership, technology, and integrity in the legal field. Don't forget to subscribe to join us for more contemplative conversations on leadership and purpose.
Driving Change Through People - Donnie Bedney
Leadership LevelUp
09/20/23 • 40 min
For over fifteen years, Donald (Donnie) L. Bedney III has made it his personal mission to drive change through people.
He is the President of PSP Metrics, a talent assessment company that he acquired at the end of 2020. Founded in 1946, PSP Metrics provides highly innovative and science-backed solutions in employee selection and development.
Mr. Bedney is also currently an Operating Partner at ScaleCo Management, an investment-based platform that aims to provide sustainable growth for profitable companies that have plateaued.
On this episode of Leadership Level Up, Donnie shares how his grandfather showed him how to be a leader at a young age. He also expresses his perspective on working remotely vs working in the office debate and how companies who truly listen to their employees in the long run will win.
Meet Our Guest
For over fifteen years, Donald (Donnie) L. Bedney III has made it his personal mission to drive change through people.
He is the President of PSP Metrics, a talent assessment company that he acquired at the end of 2020. Founded in 1946, PSP Metrics provides highly innovative and science-backed solutions in employee selection and development.
Mr. Bedney is also currently an Operating Partner at ScaleCo Management, an investment-based platform that aims to provide sustainable growth for profitable companies that have plateaued.
Throughout his career, he has achieved extensive experience in Consulting, Human Resources, Healthcare, and Private Equity.
As the Chief Human Capital Strategist of Duma Works, he was selected to participate in a US-Africa initiative, wherein US business leaders were placed in prominent African companies. Through this, he was able to serve as a Chief Operating Officer for a technology start-up in Kenya.
In his previous role as a Consultant for Gallup, Mr. Bedney was heavily involved in growing customer engagement and maximizing employee productivity. Key results include a $2.5 million increase in annual revenue over the North-East and Mid-Atlantic Regions for HealthCare Practice.
He was also the Regional Director in Press Ganey, where he managed strategic accounts worth $20 million and brought in sales of $2.4 million in just eight months.
Prior to this role, he was also the Director and one of the founding team members of Art & Science Collaborative, a venture development firm, as well as the head of HR at the Allied Athlete group.
Mr. Bedney holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Management from Oakwood University and an MBA in Finance and Sports Management from Seton Hall University.
Accepting Help, Fostering Understanding, Responding to Unexpected Challenges - Rachel Druckenmiller
Leadership LevelUp
09/06/23 • 30 min
On this episode of Leadership Level Up Jeff and Brian welcome Rachel Druckenmiller, a dynamic thought leader, TEDx speaker, and catalyst for personal growth. Rachel shares the fundamentals of her leadership philosophy that she has drawn from her journey as a trained facilitator and helping professional.
Explore how her upbringing and mentors, including her entrepreneurial father, shaped the conviction and bravery she has relied on to help her forge her path. She describes the power of embracing one's uniqueness, the courage to take leaps, and the art of thriving in discomfort.
Join the conversation as she delves into the profound impact of accepting help, fostering understanding, and responding to unexpected challenges. Tune in to gain insights that will inspire your own leadership journey and encourage you to embrace authenticity, courage, and collaboration.
MEET YOUR GUEST
Meet Rachel Druckenmiller, CEO of UNMUTED. She is a visionary leader dedicated to infusing workplaces with resilience, engagement, and connection. With an impressive background in employee benefits consulting, Rachel launched her speaking and training venture in 2019. Through dynamic keynotes, workshops, and virtual experiences, she empowers leaders and teams across diverse industries, delivering actionable insights and even a touch of song.
Named among The Daily Record's Leading Women, Rachel's impact reaches global organizations like Sherwin-Williams, Citizens Bank, and more. Armed with a Master's in Health Science and a Bachelor's in Psychology, she's a certified health coach and thriving workplace culture coach, as well as a founding member of Global Women 4 Wellbeing. Rachel's mission is clear: Facilitating thriving teams and leaders achieve their fullest potential.
"The Fearless Leadership That Allowed Me to Grow." - Celeste Kelly
Leadership LevelUp
11/01/23 • 21 min
On this episode of Leadership Level Up, Celeste Kelly returns to the show to chat with Jeff and Brian about leadership, her career, and the people that have helped her along the way. She emphasizes the importance of leaders who don't set limits on what can be achieved, fostering a culture of limitless possibilities.
She cites an example that involves an unexpected call from the White House, which led to the opportunity to work with president Gerald Ford. This episode revolves around the idea that effective leaders don't shy away from significant challenges; they embrace them, creating an environment where people can achieve what they initially didn’t find possible.
Celeste's journey highlights the transformative power of fearless leadership. She advises listeners to always give your best and approach tasks with thorough preparation, ultimately emphasizing that success is not about individual glory but collective achievement. Be sure to subscribe to Leadership Level Up so you don't miss future conversations with great leaders
MEET YOUR GUEST
Celeste Kelly boasts 40 years of experience as a senior communications executive, with experience in corporate and broadcast communications, public relations, and end-to-end event management for global markets. Throughout her career, she produced and hosted engaging programs with celebrities and newsmakers, and pioneered groundbreaking community outreach initiatives.
As Vice President of Development and Public Relations for the Kidney Cancer Association, Celeste Kelly secured major gifts from global corporations and individuals and organized international physician symposia. She continues to offer comprehensive media, public relations, and event planning services through C! Communications, while also cherishing her role as a proud mother and grandmother.
Michael Maloney: Leading with Character, Commitment, and Compassion
Leadership LevelUp
03/20/24 • 18 min
Welcome back to another compelling episode. This week, Jeff and Brian are thrilled to bring you the second part of our conversation with the extraordinary Michael Maloney, CEO and executive director of Garden of Prayer Youth Center.
In this session, Michael delves into the various programs and services provided by Garden of Prayer, shedding light on the organization's commitment to serving the community. From early childhood education and summer day camps to specialized foster care and emergency resource centers, Michael paints a vivid picture of the wide-ranging impact the center has on the lives of young individuals and families.
Michael highlights the importance of love and support in the healing journey of the children and teens who have experienced abuse and neglect, emphasizing the need for long-term care rather than rigid timelines. The conversation also touches on the remarkable transformation of former program participants into leaders within the organization, embodying the ethos of creating opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Beyond the scope of their programs, listeners will glean insights into the essential qualities Garden of Prayer seeks in its leaders and staff, including a focus on character, integrity, commitment, and compassion.
Join us as we continue to celebrate the spirit of community, resilience, and leadership in this enriching episode. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button to join us for more stories of meaningful impact and purpose.
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Leadership Can Transform Not Only A Sports League, But Also The Communities It Touches - Evelyn Magley
Leadership LevelUp
10/18/23 • 28 min
Join hosts Jeff Williamson and Brian Prairie as they sit down with a true trailblazer, Evelyn Magley, on this episode of Leadership Level Up. Magley made history as she became the first African American woman CEO of a men's professional sports league, 'The Basketball League.' In a captivating conversation, Jeff and Brian delve into the core of leadership, exploring Evelyn's leadership style and the lessons you can glean from her incredible journey.
Evelyn's leadership philosophy is simple yet profound—lead by example. She shares how her experiences as an educator and now as a league CEO have taught her the importance of setting the standard for others. With 49 teams in the league, Evelyn reveals the power of a strong onboarding process, community engagement, and fostering a culture that emphasizes values beyond performance on the court.
Discover how 'The Basketball League' is about more than just basketball; it's a force for positive change and community-building. Magley's emphasis on financial literacy, community outreach, and empowering players to be ambassadors for change sets an inspiring example for leaders.
Tune in to gain valuable insights into how leadership can transform not only a sports league, but also the communities it touches. This episode underscores the incredible impact of investing in players and communities, and how sports can serve as a powerful platform for a broader message.
Be sure to subscribe to Leadership Level Up so you don't miss future conversations with great leaders!
MEET YOUR GUEST
Evelyn Magley, a pioneering leader, made history as the first female owner of a professional sports league. Co-founding The Basketball League (TBL) with her husband in 2019, she has been a beacon of inspiration.
With faith as her guide, Evelyn Magley focuses on empowering young athletes with life skills, financial literacy, and community outreach.
Born in Kansas, she was the first African American homecoming queen at her high school and went on to graduate from The University of Kansas. She is a renowned keynote speaker, sharing her wisdom on leadership and professional development.
Her life's mission is to build stronger communities, promote financial literacy, and inspire future leaders with messages of kindness, love, understanding, and respect.
This Is Who I Say I Am, So This Is Who I Am - Eric Hehman
Leadership LevelUp
08/24/22 • 37 min
"The thing I am trying to do more than ever is trying to continue to be authentic. I am trying to keep saying - This is who I say I am - This is who I am. I am always working on personal development and growth in any way that creates total integrity."
Our hosts, Dr. Jeff Williamson, CEO & Founder of Converge, and Brian Prairie, the Chief Creative Officer of Pathfinder, are joined by Eric Hehman to discuss his experiences as a leader and coach.
Eric is the Head Football Coach at Olivet Nazarene University.
Early in his coaching career, Eric made it his professional mission to help athletes close the gap between their potential and their performance. In the years since, that mission has expanded to helping coaches, businesses and families close the same gap. Most people would agree we are all wired with unique skills and perspectives, having potential to make a great impact on those around us. However, our unconscious tendencies often get in the way of maximum impact performance. Working together, Eric works to close the gap, moving you from potential, and liberating you to the highest level of performance in all areas of life. Know yourself, so you can lead yourself, so you can lead others.
Sponsor:
Pathfinder: A full-service creative & marketing agency with a mission to provide strategic storytelling to our clients.
There is no greater impact in this world than a story. Storytelling is how we learn, remember, and feel. The world has used storytelling since the beginning of time to entertain, teach, inspire, and innovate.
Pathfinder’s mission is to provide strategic storytelling for our clients. How? Through inventive business services and pioneering campaigns that help organizations find their own path and carry out their vision.
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Check out what Jeff can do for you at Converge!
Converge provides professional & leadership development, executive coaching, and consulting services. Service offerings include individual executive coaching, team and small group coaching, creation and delivery of professional development programs and curriculum for managers and front-line staff.
You’re Not Just Doing Work; You Are Leading People - Staci Wilken
Leadership LevelUp
11/23/22 • 29 min
Stepping into a leadership role is intimidating, and this feeling is unchanging even if the role is one you have curated for yourself. Staci Wilken has just stepped into being an entrepreneur full time in starting her business, Experience Edit, in the past six months. In this episode, Staci delves into the challenges that come with becoming a leader and starting your own business. It requires facing your fears and identity, relying on your support network, and fully trusting in the process.
Alongside hosts Dr. Jeff Williamson and Brian Prairie, Staci Wilken addresses how approaching a new leadership role requires consideration of the leaders you have experienced. One theme that Staci notes is seeing the difference between a boss and a leader – a boss tells you to do something, but a leader shows you. Staci shares how this theme has taken root in her own business with constant consideration that “You’re not just doing work; you are leading people... how do you do this well?”.
Tune in to hear more about Staci Wilken’s recent entrepreneurial journey and candid insight into starting Experience Edit.
MEET YOUR GUEST
Staci Wilken graduated from Milikin University with her bachelor’s in Marketing in 2003 and has since been the Executive Director and Event Coordinator for Manteno Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Manteno as well as Executive Director for Kankakee Counter Convention & Visitor’s Bureau.
Most Recently, Staci Wilken took the leap in starting her consulting business, Experience Edit. Experience Edit seeks to bridge the gap between businesses and their customer experiences. In mediating this, Experience Edit considers new approaches for businesses through services such as brand implementation, experience curation, project management, and small – scale interior design.
SPONSOR
Pathfinder: A full-service creative & marketing agency with a mission to provide strategic storytelling to our clients.
There is no greater impact in this world than a story. Storytelling is how we learn, remember, and feel. The world has used storytelling since the beginning of time to entertain, teach, inspire, and innovate.
Pathfinder’s mission is to provide strategic storytelling for our clients. How? Through inventive business services and pioneering campaigns that help organizations find their own path and carry out their vision.
CONVERGE
Converge provides professional & leadership development, executive coaching, and consulting services. Service offerings include individual executive coaching, team and small group coaching, creation and delivery of professional development programs and curriculum for managers and front-line staff.
"Leadership Doesn’t Have To Come From The Top Of An Organization." - Dr. Michael Johnson
Leadership LevelUp
11/29/23 • 31 min
On this episode of Leadership Level Up Dr. Michael Johnson, a long-time servant and employee at Trevecca Nazarene University joins the show. Dr. Johnson shares insights from his extensive leadership journey where he has created connections among people with diverse perspectives.
Jeff and Dr. Michael Johnson explore the meaning of generosity, with Dr. Johnson highlighting the importance of a nobility of purpose. Dr. Johnson goes on to discuss his doctoral research on the relationship between generosity, satisfaction with life, and commitment to an organization. He stresses that generosity extends beyond financial contributions, encompassing various acts that can be world-changing. Eventually connecting this concept with leadership dynamics, Jeff and Dr. Johnson touch on the idea that you can lead from any position within an organization as well as the significance of servant leadership.
As Dr. Johnson reflects on his 34-year tenure at Trevecca, he shares details about his current role as Aide to the President for Special Projects. The episode concludes with a glimpse into his ongoing efforts to raise $35 million for a new athletic facility, highlighting the collaborative approach needed to make this vision a reality.
Be sure to subscribe to Leadership Level Up so you don't miss future conversations with great leaders!
MEET YOUR GUEST
Dr. Michael Johnson has been the Aide to the President for Special Projects at Trevecca University for over 26 years. He holds an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and received his Doctorate in Education, and he is also the host of his podcast, Michael in the Middle. His research explores the link between generosity, life satisfaction, and organizational commitment. His commitment to positive change is evident in his strategic projects and collaborative approach. From a B.S. in Communication and Human Relations to leadership roles, his educational journey reflects a lifelong dedication to learning and impact.
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FAQ
How many episodes does Leadership LevelUp have?
Leadership LevelUp currently has 60 episodes available.
What topics does Leadership LevelUp cover?
The podcast is about Motivation, Change, Organization, Management, Leadership, Growth, Podcasts, Self-Improvement, Education, Leader, Coaching, Communication and Ethics.
What is the most popular episode on Leadership LevelUp?
The episode title '"Leadership Doesn’t Have To Come From The Top Of An Organization." - Dr. Michael Johnson' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Leadership LevelUp?
The average episode length on Leadership LevelUp is 29 minutes.
How often are episodes of Leadership LevelUp released?
Episodes of Leadership LevelUp are typically released every 14 days.
When was the first episode of Leadership LevelUp?
The first episode of Leadership LevelUp was released on Aug 10, 2022.
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