Leadership LevelUp

Welcome back, Converge listeners! I'm your host, Jeff Williamson, alongside my co-host Brian Prairie. Today, we have the pleasure of featuring Donnie Bedney, the insightful owner of PSP Metrics, on our podcast. In this episode, Donnie delves into the intricate world of talent selection and development within industries ripe with exacting demands, such as energy, utilities, and hospitality. With his profound expertise, he discusses the pivotal role of system operators in maintaining the robust frameworks that power our daily lives. Donnie also sheds light on how his company assists organizations in identifying and nurturing the human capital that propels them forward. Donnie elaborates on his holistic approach to assessment, emphasizing the creation of customized norms tailored specifically for each client, which not only enhance selection strategies but also bolster employee retention. His philosophy, “We need to understand how individuals will show up at work and what support they may need to truly thrive,” serves as a cornerstone for his practice. Moreover, listeners will gain insights into the synergy between personality tools and professional coaching, and how these resources can optimize both personal and organizational growth. Donnie reflects on his rewarding experiences in seeing clients discover new dimensions of their leadership styles through PSP Metrics' distinct educational efforts. So stay tuned as we explore the subtle art of blending psychological insights with practical business outcomes, navigating through challenges, and celebrating successes in the complex terrain of human resources. Don't forget to subscribe to catch more enlightening discussions here at Converge, where we converge on the nexus of innovation, leadership, and passion. ---

Welcome back to Leadership LevelUp, where the dialogue on leadership and innovation continues to evolve. I'm your host, Brian Prairie, joined by my fellow host Jeff Williamson. In today's episode, we have the pleasure of reconnecting with the insightful and dynamic Rachel Druckenmiller, a beacon of authenticity and a voice for wellbeing. Today, Rachel takes us on a journey of self-discovery and genuine expression as she prepares for her TEDx Rockville talk, where she'll distill her life's work into a captivating 18-minute narrative. With over 300 submissions and only seven speakers chosen, Rachel delves into the meticulous process that goes behind delivering a TED talk, touching on how evidence-based approaches inform her engaging storytelling methods – a unique blend that includes a tale and a song. In our conversation, Rachel sheds light on the continuous unravelling of self-expression and creativity, opening up about her personal narrative that led to the 'Unmute Your Plate' concept and her transformational food blog, 'Rachel's Nourishing Kitchen'. "We each have a voice that is inherently valuable, and choosing to show up authentically is a courageous act," she shares, exemplifying the importance of 'unmuting' oneself to foster confidence and genuine self-expression. Both Rachel and our team explore the role of self-assessment tools in understanding our natural inclinations and strengths, and how this can inspire the courage to stand out and be true to oneself. Rachel's discovery of her "captain" archetype underlines the significance of such tools in recognizing one's unique qualities. Whether it's the struggle between attachment and authenticity, as discussed in Dr. Gabor Mate's work, or the importance of believing in your own value, Rachel's words resonate deeply with anyone seeking to lead with integrity and heart. With nuggets of wisdom on how to lead authentically and the encouragement to believe in the undeniable worth of one's own contribution, this episode is not to be missed. As Rachel eloquently puts it, "It's about consistently showing up as our authentic selves, and that's where our true power lies." So sit back, press play, and let's dive into this rich conversation that promises to leave you inspired to live and lead with authenticity. And remember, hit that subscribe button to stay connected with Converge for future episodes with leaders who are making a real difference.

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of Leadership LevelUp. Today we're thrilled to be joined by the esteemed Dan Hofmeister, an equity partner at the international law firm of Reed Smith LLP. In this compelling session, Dan shares profound insights from his 30-year legal career, reflecting on the pivotal moments that shaped his journey as a leader in the legal profession. He delves into the origins of his passion for law, harking back to a pivotal moment in 6th grade that ignited his fascination with the pursuit of truth and justice within the legal sphere. Drawing from his wealth of experience, Dan stresses the significance of effective writing as a cornerstone skill for aspiring lawyers and leaders. His emphasis on the value of compelling written communication underscores the enduring importance of this craft in the legal field and beyond. Further, Dan candidly discusses the impact of influential mentors and key individuals in his leadership journey, from esteemed attorneys to community leaders, highlighting the profound lessons he gleaned from these pivotal figures. Throughout our conversation, Dan underscores the need for young professionals to embrace risk-taking and carve out opportunities for growth early in their careers, fostering a culture of perseverance and self-improvement that transcends the legal domain. As we continue to explore the multifaceted world of leadership, join us in celebrating the wisdom and experiences of Dan Hofmeister, a distinguished legal luminary guiding future leaders toward professional success and personal growth. Tune in as we uncover profound insights into the legal profession, the power of mentorship, and the enduring impact of taking calculated risks in pursuit of excellence. Remember to hit that subscribe button to join us for more stories of leadership, purpose, and impact!

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. ----

Welcome to another episode of Converge, where we explore the intersection of leadership and personal growth, and I'm your host, Jeff Williamson, along with my co-host Brian Prairie. This week, we are thrilled to introduce our esteemed guest, Dan Chapman – a visionary leader in the realm of natural remedies and a pillar in his local Christian community. In this episode, Dan shares his journey from helping out in his family's health food store to leading the operations as CEO at both Sunrise Health Foods and Red Remedies. We explore the evolution of his business and his passion for holistic health, which was ignited by his mother's own health struggles and subsequent triumphs. Dan and I touch upon the significance of self-care, particularly for leaders, and how personal well-being significantly affects team dynamics and business outcomes. He provides insightful advice, suggesting that "starting the day with a glass of water" and integrating adaptogens to your routine can help combat stress and foster well-being. This focus on balance and homeostasis is not just vital for our bodies, but it resonates throughout our leadership practices as well. As we delve into the details of his business, Dan highlights the meticulous process of complying with FDA guidelines to maintain the high quality and safety of Red Remedies' 40+ herbal supplements. With Sunrise Health Foods, we discover his strategic approach to growth, prioritizing customer satisfaction and product integrity over rapid expansion. Our conversation wraps up with Dan's forward-thinking philosophy on the role of education in healthcare, encouraging transparency and acknowledging the complexity of the body's interconnected systems. "You don't have to act on every idea, but you do need to consider each one carefully," advises Dan, stressing the importance of discernment and strategic execution in business. Join us to glean insights from a leader who not only prioritizes his customers' health but also embodies the principles he advocates for. And please, don't forget to hit subscribe to stay updated with Converge as we continue our quest to bring you inspirational tales of success, health, and impactful leadership. Meet Our Guest I'm passionate about helping people solve health challenges with herbs & food. Our bodies are amazing creations that can do remarkable things with a bit of care and nourishment. I also recognize there is so much more to health than just food and supplements. These are helpful (I would argue necessary), but only a part of what is needed. Health comes with attention and purpose in each area of life: 1. relationship with God; 2. relationship with family & friends; 3. caring for your body. I'm energized by helping people nurture health. Founder of Redd Remedies. 2nd Generation owner of Sunrise Health Foods. Investor. Speaker. Chairman of the Board, Bible League International (founded by grandfather). Board member, Chicago Youth for Christ. As a boy, Dan Chapman was raised in a household where food and nutrition were held in high regard, a testament to his mother's transformative experience. In her 20s, before Dan's birth, she grappled with severe anxiety that threatened to halt her daily life. This struggle, occurring during her early years of marriage in the 1950s, was profound and deeply influenced her lifestyle choices. Her journey through these personal health challenges ignited a fervor for understanding the healing power of proper nutrition, a legacy that shaped Dan's upbringing and his perspective on health and well-being. Dan's story is rooted in the powerful narrative of his mother's resilience and the knowledge she passed down through her passion for a health-conscious lifestyle. ----

Welcome back, Converge listeners, to another inspiring episode. I'm your host, Jeff Williamson, joined by my co-host Brian Prairie, and today we're excited to bring you part two of our conversation with the remarkable Evelyn Magley, CEO of the Basketball League! In this session, Evelyn dives deep into the heart of community impact, sharing how The Basketball League isn't just about the game but about fostering local economies, creating safe spaces for fun, and bringing people together to make a difference. We discuss the league's incredible growth from 8 to 49 teams and its expansion plans in North America, even amid the pandemic — a testament to the unyielding power of community. Evelyn emphasizes the culture of giving back as players engage in meaningful community outreach, building stronger bonds in the neighborhoods they serve. This drive for community betterment has even contributed to a downturn in local crime rates on game nights — a ripple effect of the league's influence. Beyond the league, Evelyn imparts the vital importance of self-acceptance and the valuable role of effective listening in leadership, suggesting she may even bring her wisdom to a TED talk stage in the future. We round off the discussion with an invitation to listeners to support and get involved with The Basketball League's initiatives, reminding us all that the true wealth in life extends far beyond monetary measures. So sit tight and tune in as we celebrate the power of sports in connecting communities, embracing authenticity, and inspiring future generations. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button to join us for more stories of leadership, purpose, and impact.

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jeff Williamson interviews Dr. Scott Goslin, superintendent of Bradley School District 61, about his leadership journey. Dr. Goslin discusses the influential role of his parents, coaches, and mentors in shaping his career path from teacher to administrator. He reflects on his hands-on leadership style, which includes helping with tasks like directing traffic and cleaning, and emphasizes the importance of being authentic and adapting to the needs of his team. Dr. Goslin also contemplates his future after retirement, considering roles in leadership or consulting. The conversation highlights the value of building trust, fostering a positive culture, and empowering others within an organization. About Our Guest Dr. Scott Goselin is in his nineteenth year as superintendent of Bradley School District 61. He has been an administrator in the Bradley School District for the past twenty-eight years. Before coming to Bradley, he taught for five years in the Reed-Custer School District. He is a graduate of Bradley-Bourbonnais High School, Olivet Nazarene University, Governor’s State University, Lewis University and received a doctorate degree from National Louis University in 2008. He has served in numerous community leadership roles: Kankakee-Iroquois United Way, Kankakee Chamber of Commerce, Bradley-Bourbonnais Rotary Club, Bradley-Bourbonnais High School Academic Foundation, Educators of Illinois League, Knights of Columbus, Kankakee NAACP, Illinois Association of School Administrators Board of Directors, and Maternity BVM Church Council. He was most recently awarded the 2017 Three Rivers Region “Superintendent of Distinction” by the Illinois Association of School Administrators. Dr. Goselin is married to his wife (Sue) and have two daughters (Claire and Lily). He enjoys all types of sports and spending time with my family.

In this episode of the Leadership Level Up podcast, hosts Brian Prairie and Dr. Jeff Williamson talk with Dr. Santorini Zaki about his leadership experiences and insights, especially concerning the Gen Z workforce. Dr. Zaki, an author and consultant, shares his early leadership lessons as a high school volleyball captain and the influence of a senior vice president who exemplified people-first leadership. The discussion covers the challenges of transitioning into leadership roles, the importance of listening and supporting team members, and the need for leadership development. Dr. Zaki also discusses his research on Gen Z's workplace preferences, emphasizing well-being, flexibility, and clear communication. About Our Guest Award-winning CEO, #1 Bestselling author, TEDx & keynote speaker with NASA & Fortune 100 experience, helping Millennials and Generation Z reach their full potential using a strengths-based approach. Dr. Santor Nishizaki is the Founder and CEO of the Mulholland Consulting Group, LLC. Santor created MCG to create a happier workplace by helping organizations increase generational awareness and discover strengths that can elevate individuals to reach their full potential. Dr. Santor has been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, Fast Company, NBC, Fox, BBC, CNN.com, CBC, and more. To see Santor's full press, check out his website. In addition to keynote speaking and corporate training, Dr. Nishizaki is a college professor who teaches classes around soft skills, leadership, global business, and social entrepreneurship at many schools in Southern California, including Pepperdine University, up to the Ph.D. level and was nominated as Lecturer of the Year in 2023 at Cal State LA.

On this episode of Leadership Level Up Antonio Marshall returns to the show to sit down with Jeff and Brian to discuss his nonprofit MANonFIRE. Marshall connects his organization to stories from his life and how they led him on a journey to empower youth. Discover how MANonFIRE blossomed, providing essential programs for young people in both Kankakee and Grand Rapids. Antonio's insights shed light on how to best serve a communities' unique needs, and he touches on how the organization's relationship with basketball serves as a unifying force. Antonio discusses the importance of addressing mental health and the impact MANonFIRE has had on many people. You'll hear heartwarming success stories and the surprising challenges youth face, emphasizing the power of support and mentorship. Tune in to learn valuable leadership lessons and the profound impact that comes from simply being there for those in need. Discover how MANonFIRE is changing lives and communities. Be sure to subscribe to Leadership Level Up so you don't miss future conversations with great leaders!

On this episode of Leadership Level Up, Jeff and Brian welcome Eric Peterson back to the show to talk about his organization, Project Headspace and Timing. Established with the mission of providing resources for veterans, Eric underscores the vital role that cultivating a sense of community plays in achieving his organization's goals. The organization's three main approaches—veteran advocacy, outreach programs, and the veteran village project—underscore its commitment to holistic support. Eric highlights the importance of peer support for mental health and how important it is to give people a space free of judgment where they are loved unconditionally. The discussion also touches on crisis intervention and the significance of building relationships through outreach. Inspired in part by Viktor Frankl's "Man's Search for Meaning," Eric says that once someone finds their why, they are able to bear any how. If you would like to support Project Headspace and Timing, connect on social media, visit projectheadspaceandtiming.org and check out the I'm F.I.N.E. podcast. Be sure to subscribe to Leadership Level Up so you don't miss future conversations with great leaders! MEET YOUR 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. ----

On this episode of Leadership Level Up, Jeff and Brian are joined by returning guest Bill Yohnka, the Executive Director of the Kankakee Riverfront Society. The conversation delves into the intricacies of leadership, exploring Bill's role in spearheading the development of Kankakee's riverfront. Bill shares his passion for the community, emphasizing the transformative potential of the Currents of Kankakee. The episode covers the progress the Kankakee Riverfront Society has made, discussing grants, community support, and collaborative efforts. Jeff, Brian and Bill explore the future possibilities, addressing challenges and milestones in the journey toward groundbreaking. Bill sheds light on the crucial but often unseen foundational work, highlighting his community outreach role in ensuring progress. Listeners gain valuable leadership insights from Bill's dedication to inclusive development, emphasizing the societal benefits beyond riverfront property. As the episode concludes, Bill invites the community to support the Kankakee Riverfront Society, emphasizing the impact the project can have in attracting people to the city. If you’d like to get involved, visit thecurrentsofkankakee.com for more information, and be sure to subscribe to Leadership Level Up so you don't miss future conversations with great leaders! MEET YOUR GUEST Bill Yohnka, who many have dubbed “Mr. Kankakee,” currently serves as the Executive Director of the Kankakee Riverfront Society. Previously, he has served as Economic Development Director for the City of Kankakee as well as The Community Engagement Specialist for Kankakee School District #111. Yohnka is also a morning radio host for X-Country 106.5 FM on top of also serving as the announcer at the Kankakee County Motor Speedway. A lifelong Kankakee resident, Yohnka hopes to leave his hometown better than how he found it.

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. ----

On this episode of Leadership Level Up, Jeff Williamson welcomes Jeff Christian to the show! As the CEO and founder of C4 Leaders, a nonprofit organization, Christian brings a wealth of experience from diverse roles, including coaching and nursing. Uncover the core principles of effective leadership as Christian highlights the 'Four Cs' behind his organization: communication, chemistry, consistency, and creativity. He emphasizes the transformative power of active listening, which he says fosters an environment where team members feel acknowledged and valued. Drawing from personal experiences, Christian reflects on pivotal life lessons, sharing advice to his younger self as well as describing the nuances of parenting. Explore the significance of creating the space that allows individuals to learn as well as the importance of offering unconditional love for personal growth, both in leadership and in life. Be sure to subscribe to Leadership Level Up so you don't miss future conversations with great leaders! MEET YOUR GUEST Jeff Christian, founder of C4 Leaders, draws on his upbringing in Campbell, California, where his mother's example instilled the value of service. His 'Pizza Day Series' helps aspiring leaders by sharing life's values through pizza-making, emphasizing personal growth through the principles of communication, chemistry, consistency, and creativity (C4). His background includes nursing, coaching, and leadership consultation. Jeff's work centers on nurturing minds, bodies, and spirits, emphasizing that success comes from doing things the right way, both in sports and in life.

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.

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.

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.

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.

In this episode of Leadership Level Up, communications executive Celeste Kelly joins Jeff and Brian to share her insights into leadership. Kelly discusses the importance of servant leadership and offers key leadership attributes through the lens of her former boss, Elwin Basquin. According to Celeste, Elwin Basquin embodied true leadership by being hands-on, always present, and ever-willing to assist others. Celeste fondly recalls how he treated everyone with equal respect, forging meaningful connections with people and fostering a sense of synergy within the team. The podcast delves into how Elwin's leadership style impacted Celeste, and how Celeste's mentorship went on to impact Brian. Throughout the episode, Celeste emphasizes the importance of serving others, understanding their needs, and encouraging them to pursue their goals. The engaging conversation concludes with the significance of humility in effective leadership. Join Celeste, Jeff, and Brian in this thought-provoking podcast that shines a light on the essence of true leadership. 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.

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.

On today's episode of Leadership Level Up, we have the pleasure of hosting Michael Maloney, the CEO and Executive Director of the Garden of Prayer Youth Center. He sits down with Jeff and Brian to provide insight into the influences that have shaped his leadership journey. During our discussion, Maloney takes us back to his roots, reminiscing about the profound impact his grandmother had on his life and how her wisdom continues to shape his leadership approach. She nurtured his innate creativity, which Maloney applies in his role as a leader to discover innovative solutions that may not be immediately apparent. In addition to his creativity, Michael attributes his keen attention to detail to his mother, a trait that has significantly contributed to his ability to excel in diverse environments and adapt swiftly to changing circumstances. Moreover, he acknowledges the influence of Archbishop William Hudson III. From Hudson, Maloney absorbed the invaluable lesson of leadership through fostering meaningful relationships, instead of relying on positional authority. Listen to hear Maloney describe how he merges these impactful influences into a unique and effective leadership style that has helped establish his position as a pillar in the community. Be sure to subscribe to Leadership Level Up so you don't miss future conversations with great leaders! MEET YOUR GUEST Michael Maloney has led the Garden of Prayer as the CEO and Executive Director of the Garden of Prayer since 2006. Previously, he dedicated six years as the Board President before assuming his current role. Under his leadership, the service population has tripled, program offerings have doubled, and the agency's reach has expanded to include five additional locations. Michael's educational background includes a B.A. from Southern Illinois University of Carbondale, an M.A. in Community Counseling from Chicago State University, and an M.B.A. from the Keller Graduate School of Management. He is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Licensed Child Welfare Specialist.