Lead with Empower Podcast

The Lead with Empower "Podcast Mini-Series" with the Western CT State University Softball Team is designed to hear, first hand, from team members and coaches, the role leadership plays in competitive sport at the collegiate level. Welcome to our 2nd Episode of WestConn Softball Leads with Empower! The Empower Leadership Team has 22 years of experience facilitating team building programs and leadership development workshops to over 170,000 participants from schools/youth programs, corporations/municipalities, colleges/universities, and athletic teams/programs. Learn more about Empower Leadership at www.leadwithempower.com. Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

The Lead with Empower "Podcast Mini-Series" with the Western CT State University Softball Team is designed to hear, first hand, from team members and coaches, the role leadership plays in competitive sport at the collegiate level. Welcome to the 3rd installment of WestConn Softball Leads with Empower! The Empower Leadership Team has 22 years of experience facilitating team building programs and leadership development workshops to over 170,000 participants from schools/youth programs, corporations/municipalities, colleges/universities, and athletic teams/programs. Learn more about Empower Leadership at www.leadwithempower.com. Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

The Lead with Empower "Podcast Mini-Series" with the Western CT State University Softball Team is designed to hear, first hand, from team members and coaches, the role leadership plays in competitive sport at the collegiate level. Welcome to our 2nd Episode of WestConn Softball Leads with Empower! The Empower Leadership Team has 22 years of experience facilitating team building programs and leadership development workshops to over 170,000 participants from schools/youth programs, corporations/municipalities, colleges/universities, and athletic teams/programs. Learn more about Empower Leadership at www.leadwithempower.com. Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

The Empower Leadership Team kicks off our inaugural "Podcast Mini-Series" with the Softball Team from Western Connecticut State University (WestConn). Empower Leadership delivered a start-of-season team building event to the WestConn Softball Team on Saturday March 4th, 2023 and will track their team's performance, over the course of their season, by discussing leadership, team dynamics, and more with their athletes and coaches on the Lead with Empower Podcast! The Empower Leadership Team has 22 years of experience facilitating team building programs and leadership development workshops to over 170,000 participants from schools/youth programs, corporations/municipalities, colleges/universities, and athletic teams/programs. Learn more about Empower Leadership at www.leadwithempower.com. Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

The Empower Leadership Team is back with another uplifting and empowering episode of the Lead with Empower Podcast. Operations Manager Ron Davis and President/GM Dan Jaskot aim to provide tools and tips to simplify your leadership skill development and touch on the following topics: The Empower Leadership Team has 22 years of experience facilitating team building programs and leadership development workshops to over 170,000 participants from schools/youth programs, corporations/municipalities, colleges/universities, and athletic teams/programs. Learn more about Empower Leadership at www.leadwithempower.com. Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

An uplifting leadership discussion with Empower Leadership's Operations Manger, Ron Davis, and President/GM, Dan Jaskot touching on the following topics: The Empower Leadership Team has 22 years of experience facilitating team building programs and leadership development workshops to over 170,000 participants from schools/youth programs, corporations/municipalities, colleges/universities, and athletic teams/programs. Learn more about Empower Leadership at www.leadwithempower.com. Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

Ron Davis Leads with Empower We kick-off Season 5 of the Lead with Empower podcast with Empower Leadership's Operations Manager, Ron Davis. Ron joined the Empower Leadership Team in the early Spring of 2022 after serving in the United States Marine Corps for over 24 years. As a Marine, Ron specialized in leading and commanding entry-level programs within the Marine Corps to include service as a Series Commander and Assistant Director Drill Instructor School, Parris Island, South Carolina, and as a Company Commander and Operations Officer at Officer Candidate School, Quantico, VA. Ron has trained, coached, and mentored thousands of young men and women, screening and evaluating recruits and candidates for future leadership positions. Ron has honorably and faithfully served our country locally and abroad, leading a platoon of 80 Marines and Sailors in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Ron possesses over 20 years of leadership experience in and out the military. Specifically, Ron has held billet, titles, and employment in areas of strategic initiative/organizational planning, personnel supervision and management, organizational project management, human resources, logistics, intelligence and security. Additionally, Ron worked as a Child Development Specialist and Residential Supervisor for The Village for Families and Children, providing guidance, leadership, and support to the Child Development Staff in their efforts to maintain a healthy, therapeutic, and safe environment for the Program's children and staff. Ron continues to demonstrate a strong command presence, maturity, and a democratic leadership style conducive to effectively and efficiently EMPOWERING participants! Ron's extensive experiences in leadership, along with his welcoming personality, passion for helping others, and enthusiasm inspiring and empowering individuals and teams makes him a very welcome addition to the Empower Leadership Team! Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

Dr. Don Sawyer Leads with Empower Don Sawyer, Ph.D. is the Vice President for Equity, Inclusion, and Leadership Development, as well as an Associate Professor of Sociology, at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT. Additionally, Don is one of the Founders of HipHopHeals, a community-based project in the Dominican Republic, using the hip-hop culture to unite Haitian and Dominican youth. "Me giving back, that's my responsibility. I'm here because people have poured into me and given me second chances. It's only right that I do that for other people who seek to learn something from me." 00:32: Episode Intro and Roll Call - Dr. Don Sawyer Leads with Empower 02:32: An Update on Campus Life and the QUFYI Inaugural Class 07:30: The QUFYI Program 15:14: Don's Leadership Journey 21:55: Childhood Book Reports for Mom - Impactful People and Experiences from Don's Youth 28:15: Mentorship and Authenticity in Leadership 39:58: Episode Closure Learn more about Don's work as a Leader and Community Builder: websiteQUFYI program Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

Tracy Tighe Johnston Leads with Empower Tracy is the Founder and Executive Director of Tighed Together - a non-profit that facilitates restorative and recreational outings for families experiencing trauma caused by a medical diagnosis, a tragedy, a loss, a chronic condition, or a disability. Tighed Together guides the families they serve from trauma and despair, through change, toward healing and rebuilding so that all members can have hope for a brighter future. "Stay strong, keep showing up, and when you need it, lean into those who love you." 00:32: Episode Intro and Roll Call - "Leadership and healing is about connecting to people" 07:30: Tighed Together - Leadership in Action 30:14: Leadership Journey - "See the Good, be the good, make the good happen" 44:07: Finish the Drill and Episode Closure - We close out our conversation learning about (1) Tracy's favorite "Smash Room" weaponry and object of destruction, (2) her family's favorite adventure activities, (3) the advice current Tracy would give to "pre-Tighed Together" Tracy, (4) what currently motivates Tracy, and (5) Tracy's words of inspiration for those experiencing trauma. Learn more about Tighed Together: websiteFacebookInstagramTwitter Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

Senior Master Sergeant Jenny Gonzalez-Smith Leads with Empower SMSgt Jenny Smith-Gonzalez is the Human Resources Advisor with the 103rd Airlift Wing of the CT Air National Guard. Jenny has over 20 years of service time with the Air Guard and her current role focuses on providing mentorship and coaching, diversity and inclusion training, and victim advocacy for Airmen. Additionally, Jenny serves her civilian community as a therapist. "Leave it better than you found it and freaking take care of your freaking people!" 00:32: Episode Introduction and Roll Call - SMSgt Gonzalez-Smith and I met in the Summer of 2021 as she was planning the first-ever Women's Leadership Symposium for the CT Air National Guard. The symposium took place in the Fall of 2021 and included a leadership training with Empower. Jenny's positive attitude, tremendous leadership, and strong desire to develop a greater sense of mentorship and support amongst the airmen was very evident during our program together and it is an honor for introduce SMSgt Gonzalez-Smith Leads with Empower! 13:34: Leadership in Action - We discuss how leadership plays a role in Jenny's responsibilities as both a civilian and airman; including: 32:37: The Leadership Journey - We learn about Jenny's start in the JROTC program as a high school student and how that helped shape her 20 years of service in the Air National Guard. Jenny also discusses the people and events that have impacted her development as a leader, Airman, therapist, wife, and mother. 53:49: Finish the Drill - Our conversation closes with SMSgt Gonzalez-Smith sharing (1) the advice she's give to 18 year old Jenny, (2) her greatest leadership strength and challenge, (3) her favorite hobby, (4) the best leadership advice she's received, and (5) an inspirational message for those who are facing challenges. Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

Coach Heather Stone Leads with Empower Coach Stone is entering her 16th season as Head Coach of the Western Connecticut State University Softball program. Heather has led the WCUS program to 5 NCAA appearances, a 2007 ECAC New England Championship during her tenure at her alma mater. Additionally, Coach Stone is a member of the WCSU Athletics Hall of Fame (2001 inductee). "Leadership is about accountability first. The hardest thing is learning how to be a good teammate, especially when you're sitting on the bench for the first time. You're part of something bigger than yourself and, if you want to be part of it, you have to realize that." 00:32: Episode Introduction and Roll Call - I've had the pleasure of leading leadership training and team building programs with the WCSU Softball Program in 2020 and 2021 and quickly developed a great appreciation for Coach Heather Stone and her ability to lead, inspire, and empower her athletes. 09:42: Leadership in Action - We learn about Coach Stone as a leader through our discussions on: 33:35: The Leadership Journey - We learn about Coach Stone's playing career, early coaching career, her time in the US Military, and how she leverages her personal experiences in her leadership. 53:49: Finish the Drill - Our conversation closes with Heather sharing (1) her favorite team and athlete, (2) her dream dinner guests, (3) the best leadership advice she's ever received, (4) her current inspiration, and (5) words of motivation for coaches and athletes! Learn more about Coach Stone and the WCSU Softball Program: WebsiteFacebookTwitterInstagram Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

Dr. Matthew Raidbard Leads with Empower Dr. Matthew Raidbard is the Author of "Lead Like a Pro: Effective Leadership Styles for Athletic Coaches" and Founder of Raidbard Sports Leadership Consulting. Dr. Raidbard brings his 15 years of experience in Division I college basketball coaching and senior level college athletics administration to the Lead with Empower podcast for a tremendous conversation that covers effective leadership in sport, responsible risk taking, the importance of trusting relationships in leadership, and the impact of positive culture on team success. 00:32: Introducing Dr. Matthew Raidbard02:30: Lead Like a Pro, Part #104:58: Leadership of Self14:35: Raidbard Sports Leadership Consulting18:27: Lead Like a Pro, Part #239:42: The Evolution of Matthew Raidbard53:49: Finish the Drill(1)(2)(3)(4) Learn more about Dr. Matthew Raidbard and Raidbard Sports Leadership Consulting: LinkedInTwitterRaidbard Sports Leadership ConsultingLead Like a Pro: Effective Leadership Styles for Athletic Coaches Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

Sean Banks Leads with Empower Sean is the General Manager of the DC Breeze, a professional ultimate frisbee team from the American Ultimate Disc League (AUDL). Sean's journey, from being a music education major in college to his current role as the GM of the DC Breeze, is inspiring and empowering! Sean shares his thoughts on professional ultimate frisbee, leadership in sport (and beyond), and the importance of persistence! Tremendous leadership insight from Sean during our conversation, including discussions about: "Be grateful, let them know how much you appreciate them - it goes a long way. When people feel valued, they are willing to do more to advocate for you". Learn more about Sean and the DC Breeze: DC BreezeAUDLFacebookTwitterInstagram Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

Christopher Koch Leads with Empower Christopher Koch is one of the Assistant Principals at Bunnell High School (Stratford, CT Public Schools). I was first introduced to Chris during a Spring 2021 Zoom team building event and developed a great relationship with Chris during our 2-week Summer Empowerment program with students from Stratford Public Schools. Chris has a unique ability to develop trusting connections with those that he leads - from students to faculty/staff and fellow administrators. You will hear about Chris' thoughts on relationships, fear of failure, finding balance, and so much more during our discussion! Tremendous leadership insight from Chris during our conversation, including discussions about: "I've always believed that the further you allow yourself to get away from the classroom and the kids, the further you remove yourself from the fabric that makes up the school." Learn more about Chris and the amazing team at Bunnell High School: WebsiteTwitterInstagram Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

John Yeager Leads with Empower John Yeager is the Founder and CEO of Yeager Leadership and co-author of The Coaching Zone: Next Level Leadership in Sports. The Yeager Leadership management firm helps organizations become more aware of how their ability to leverage strengths and culture, and to manage "healthy tensions," leads to maximizing engagement, capacity and performance. John is a tremendous leader and leadership consultant who has a strong passion for understanding "the why of human behavior" and for helping his clients operate as high performing individuals, teams and organizations. Tremendous leadership insight from John during our conversation, including discussions about: "The missing link is the relationships players have with each other and their ability to connect with each other." Learn more about John Yeager, Yeager Leadership, and The Coaching Zone Book: WebsiteWebsiteFacebookLinkedIn Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

Season III of the Lead with Empower Podcast concludes with a wonderful conversation with Joselyn DeFreest, the Group Adventure Specialist from Empower Adventures Tampa Bay (EATB). Joselyn is one of the original EATB team members - joining soon after their opening in 2016. To sum up Joselyn's role in one job title is nearly impossible - she is the ultimate Empower Swiss Army Knife! We hope you enjoy our conversation about leadership, multi-tasking, self-coaching, family life, and so much more. Joselyn DeFreest Leads with Empower! 00:00: Episode Start and "Roll Call" 20:21: The Leadership Challenges of Juggling Responsibilities at Work and at Home 24:20: From Tampa to...... Tampa - Joselyn's Journey to Empower Adventures Tampa Bay 31:45: Taking the Leap of Faith 35:59: Lead, Inspire, and Empower 48:04: Five Years of Empowerment 55:50: Finish the Drill - "Don't be afraid to fail and don't be afraid of forgiving yourself!" Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

"Humanity is not an individual sport." Doug Whittington Leads with Empower and brings an excitingly fresh perspective on what it means to lead effectively in business, at home, and in life. We learn about Doug's journey to (and from) the corporate world, his family's current adventure (cross country road trip since February 2021), and so much more. We hope you enjoy our conversation! 00:00: Episode Start and "Roll Call" 11:02: The Journey - Money Doesn't Guarantee Happiness 16:15: Discovering the "Best Version of Doug Whittington" 20:38: Finding the Courage to Pivot, Take the Step, and Grow 24:38: The Journey, Part II - Noteworthy Experiences from Doug's Highschool, College, and Early Professional Years 44:52: Leadership in Action - Looking for Opportunities in the Struggle 01:12:35: "Finish the Drill" and Episode Closure Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

"Don't let other people tell you that you are not good enough to do something. Give it your best shot and prove them wrong!" The Lead with Empower crosses enemy lines!!!! Dan Jaskot, the host and avid fan of the New York Yankees, is joined by real estate agent, former major league pitcher with the Tampa Bay Rays, and current broadcaster of the Rays, Mr. Doug Waechter. All kidding aside - what a tremendous time with Doug - he brings a wealth of leadership insight, humor, and engaging storytelling to the podcast. We hope you enjoy our conversation! 00:00: Episode Introduction, Guest "Roll Call", and Finding the Positives 23:55: The Leadership Journey: "You have to be self-motivated, find a way to succeed and keep your focus on the long-term goals" 48:20: "Get comfortable with the uncomfortable" - Transitioning from the Big Leagues to "Civilian Life" 59:30: "Finishing the Drill" and Episode Closure Keep up with the Tampa Bay Rays and all things Doug Waechter on Twitter! Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

"Help someone do something that they don't think they can do!" I first met Dayna when she interviewed for a seasonal zip line guide position with Empower Leadership Sports & Adventure Center in the winter of 2009. Dayna quickly became a key player in the Middletown operation and, since about 2016, the entire Empower Adventures Operation. Whether it was sitting next to her in the small corner office, working as a guide team - Dayna always did whatever it took to get the job done to the highest standard possible! It was so great to spend some virtual time catching up with Dayna - I hope you enjoy her tremendous stories and insight! 00:00: Episode Introduction and Guest "Roll Call" 17:50: Lead, Inspire, and Empower - Dayna's Leadership Journey 35:01: Seasonal Part-Time Zip Line Guide to Key Player with Empower Adventures 59:00: "It takes 2 seconds of courage to try something new!" - Episode Closure Learn more about the Empower Adventures Parks in Virginia, Greater Tampa Bay, and Connecticut. Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co

"People are only motivated out of two areas - either desire or fear. The problem with motivating people out of fear is that the moment you leave the room, so does the motivation. If you motivate people out of desire, they will go to town." Eric Seidel - Mayor of the City of Oldsmar, FL - was kind enough to join us for a great conversation about community development, leadership, volunteerism, and so much more! Tune in for a great blend of valuable leadership insight, story telling, and engaging humor - enjoy Mayor Eric Seidel Leads with Empower! 00:00: Episode Introduction and Guest "Roll Call" 11:05: Lead, Inspire, and Empower - "Have a plan, communicate regularly, and be aggressive in tackling the problem" 28:55: From Miami (Dolphins) to Tampa Bay (Buccaneers) - Mayor Seidel's Leadership Journey 38:45: "Finish the Drill" and Episode Closure The City of Oldsmar, FL websiteFacebookInstagramTwitterLinkedInwebsiteFacebookInstagramTwitter Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co