ChangeMakers: Recent Episodes
cityCURRENT, Jeremy C. Park, Andrew Bartolotta
The ChangeMakers Podcast presented by cityCURRENT shares personal stories and insights from those who are giving back and making a difference so we can learn and do the same. We cover life lessons, business advice, passion, and purpose. Share the ways you're making a difference using #changemakers.
In this episode of the ChangeMakers Podcast, host Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Jee Vahn Knight, CEO of Baron Von Opperbean and the River of Time, to explore the intersection of creativity, hospitality, business strategy, and bold civic vision.
Jee shares her remarkable journey — from being adopted from Korea and raised in rural California, to working in science, historic preservation, construction project management, and eventually immersive entertainment with Meow Wolf. Along the way, she reveals how fear became a compass, why service and hospitality are foundational to any great experience, and how creativity flourishes within constraints.
The conversation dives deep into what immersive entertainment truly is (and isn’t), why adults need wonder just as much as children, and how experiences like Baron Von Opperbean can spark joy, connection, and economic transformation. Jee also explains why she and her family chose Memphis before the job — and why the city’s creative undercurrent, cultural legacy, and future potential make it the perfect home for a next-generation attraction.
Listeners get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the vision, timeline, and strategy leading up to the March opening on Mud Island, along with insight into leadership, legacy, parenting, and what it means to build something that serves both people and place.
This episode is a powerful reminder that cities don’t need saving — they need believers, builders, and bold collaborators willing to power the good.
Learn more and purchase your tickets here: https://www.bvoexp.com/
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
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Ethical Entrepreneurship and Rural Roots
Jeremy interviews Erik Olson, CEO of Dignity Made, about his upbringing in rural Minnesota in a Scandinavian Lutheran household. Erik shares his experiences growing up in the church, his family traditions, and favorite memories, including road trips across the United States. He discusses how his upbringing instilled a sense of community, morality, and a desire to help others, which has influenced his career in ethical entrepreneurship and global impact.
From Business to Global Impact
Erik shares his journey from pursuing a business degree to serving in Iraq after college, where he gained valuable leadership experience. He then co-founded Dignity Made, working with his father-in-law to help communities in the Philippines through various initiatives including an orphanage, high school, technical school, and water filtration system.
Fair Marketplace for Coconut Farmers
Erik described the dire situation of coconut farmers in the Philippines, highlighting extreme poverty, exploitation, and debt traps that lead to human trafficking. He explains that Dignity Coconuts was established to address these issues by creating a fair marketplace for farmers, offering them better prices and alternative economic opportunities. Erik emphasized the importance of education in helping farmers understand the value of these opportunities and the dangers of predatory loans and false promises.
Water Filtration and Coconut Innovation
Erik shares his experience teaching about water filtration in developing countries, using a cake demonstration to illustrate the invisible presence of contaminants. He describes Dignity Made’s journey in developing a superior raw virgin coconut oil product through research and innovation, which led to winning a superior taste award and establishing fair trade practices. The company’s products, including lip balm and other coconut oil derivatives, have gained popularity for their health benefits and ethical sourcing, with Erik noting that new customer acquisition and repeat purchases help expand their farmer network.
Transforming Lives Through Proximity
Erik shares his journey from serving in churches to leading a business that transforms lives of farmers and their families, emphasizing the importance of care, hard work, and innovation. He highlights how his company’s unique product and proximity to farmers have fostered strong relationships and economic growth, including the development of local businesses. Erik stresses the value of listening and being proximate to the community, as well as the lessons he’s learned from Filipino culture about hospitality, resourcefulness, and the joy of giving.
Dignity Made: Empowering Farmers
Erik shares his journey with Dignity Made, highlighting how the company started with resourceful problem-solving and has grown to empower farmers and provide dignity to workers through their coconut oil business. He discusses how the company’s success has transformed the lives of workers in the Philippines, giving them a sense of pride and purpose. Erik also shares his personal faith journey and how the church has played a significant role in his life, providing guidance and support. The conversation concludes with a lightning round of personal questions, revealing Erik’s love for ultimate Frisbee, his favorite show “Severance,” and his hope for Dignity Made to inspire 2,000 business leaders to use their influence for good.
Visit https://dignitymade.com to learn more about Dignity Made.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
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What if a single meal could nourish more than just a body—but also a soul?
In this powerful episode of the ChangeMakers Podcast, host Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Courtney Johnson, the heart and visionary behind Culinary Care, a nonprofit delivering restaurant-prepared meals and emotional support to cancer patients and their families.
Courtney’s story begins with heartbreak: losing her father to stage IV lung cancer while still in high school. Fueled by grief and love, she launched Culinary Care in her early 20s with one goal—to help others facing what her family endured.
“We had meals at our doorstep almost every day during my dad’s treatment. Those were the bright moments we looked forward to.”
What started with one meal and one handwritten flyer has become a transformative movement across Chicago and Dallas. Courtney explains how malnutrition causes 1 in 5 cancer deaths, and how a perceived sense of community can increase cancer survival rates by up to 25%.
Listeners will learn about:
The emotional and logistical challenges of launching a nonprofit
How Culinary Care fills a vital gap in outpatient cancer care
The importance of providing dignity, joy, and delicious meals
How anyone—from monthly donors to companies—can help feed hope
“We want to be the friend that never goes away… Even if the treatments stop, our care doesn’t.”
Culinary Care’s work is a reminder that community is care—and that acts of kindness, no matter how small, have the power to change lives.
🎧 Listen to the full episode
🔗 Visit CulinaryCare.org to donate, volunteer, or get involved
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
Be inspired by more positive media by following cityCURRENT here: www.cityCURRENT.com
Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Shelby Mounts, who reflects on his 25 years of service with the US Navy and highlights the leadership lessons learned and his journey to becoming Executive Director of NextOp Veterans, a nonprofit organization focused on connecting veterans and military members to career opportunities. NextOp recruits, develops, and places military members and veterans into industry careers. The organization works one-on-one with enlisted service members and veterans to help translate military training and experiences into valued qualifications in the business community, and the organization works with and supports companies to develop and execute their veteran hiring and retention strategies.
During the interview, Shelby talks about growing up in a US Navy household and how stories of service inspired him in childhood. He shares how his family’s move from Texas to California and then changing schools in San Diego were challenging at the time, but shaped his future and his ability to adapt, learn and grow, and make friends quickly. Shelby talks about some of the childhood lessons he carries with him today, and then discusses his transition into the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis. He shares how he was encouraged and selected to attend US Navy Flight School, something he had always dreamed of, and how he progressed as a pilot and officer to lead a helicopter squadron. He talks about some of training and missions, and lessons learned while deployed, and how those experiences have shaped his ability to support and empower his team.
Shelby then talks about his process of transitioning out of the military, which started when he was on a special assignment as a Secretary of Defense Corporate Fellow at Shell Oil in New Orleans, LA, and then on tours at the Pentagon, which allowed him to build and leverage his network of personal relationships that opened a door for a new corporate opportunity. He then talks about the important work that NextOp Veterans is doing to help military members and veterans, like himself, with that same transition into industry careers and opportunities. He shares some of this history and growth for the nonprofit organization, talks about some of their key strategies and recent successes, and how they are partnering with other organizations to create a system that benefits the veterans and military members, education institutions and training programs, companies, and our communities. He wraps up with how the community can help support their efforts, the power of hiring veterans and words of encouragement for companies looking to gain a competitive advantage with veterans on their team.
Visit https://nextopvets.org to learn more about NextOp Veterans.
About Shelby Mounts:
Shelby Mounts brings more than 30 years of experience in Defense and Industry leadership roles to NextOp Veterans.
His private industry roles include CEO of Riverside Consulting Services, LLC, a small, independent Government Consulting services company, Chief Commercial Officer and EVP of Sales for Vita Inclinata Technologies, and Director of Defense Aerospace and Maritime Business Development at Allegheny Technologies Inc (ATI). In each case, the focus was development of relationships, positive outcomes and growth.
Shelby’s Government experience included service in the US Navy for 25 years, where he retired as a Captain. After graduating from Annapolis with a Bachelor of Science degree, Shelby served four years as a Surface Warfare Officer, including deployed time in South America, the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East, then was selected to attend US Navy Flight School.
After earning his wings as a helicopter pilot, Shelby progressed as a pilot and officer, accumulating 2500 flight hours as an operator and two time instructor. This period included numerous deployments to the Middle East and Western Pacific Ocean supporting Navy and Marine Corps operations from San Diego,CA, Guam, and Japan, and a tour leading a helicopter squadron with 500 people and 19 helicopters in Norfolk, VA.
His staff assignments included a joint assignment at US Special Operations Command in Tampa, FL, two tours at the Pentagon in a variety of Navy Staff resourcing and operations positions, and a special assignment as a Secretary of Defense Corporate Fellow at Shell Oil in New Orleans, LA. Shelby also completed a Master of Science through the University of San Diego Business School.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Mike Pohlman, who has been a driving force at Pickering Firm, Inc. for more than 45 years, shaping the company's growth, culture and leadership. After graduating from Christian Brothers College (now Christian Brothers University) in 1979 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, he joined Pickering and quickly established himself as a leader. From his early days as an energy engineer to his transition into project management, Mike developed a deep understanding of the industry and a leadership style rooted in collaboration, humility, and purpose. His influence helped guide Pickering through transformative milestones, including its transition to an employee-owned firm and a renewed commitment to the company’s core values of Service and Good Work.
As CEO since 2002, Mike has led the firm through significant expansion and record-breaking growth while fostering an environment where employees and clients thrive. Known for his dedication to both the business and the people who make it possible, he has always viewed Pickering as more than just a company—it’s a second home. Outside the office, Mike enjoys golf, Memphis basketball, and spending time with his wife, Catherine, their four children, and six grandchildren. As he prepares for his retirement in June 2025, his legacy of leadership, integrity, and vision will continue to shape Pickering for years to come.
During the interview, Mike talks about his family's move from Cincinnati, Ohio to Memphis, Tennessee in 1962 and how they've been deeply rooted in the Mid-South ever since. He shares some of the traditions and lessons learned growing up as one of seven boys, and talks about how those experiences have shaped and continue to shape him personally and professionally. Mike discusses how he got into engineering and why he chose to start his career with Pickering Firm right out of college. He talks about his early years at Pickering Firm and how the company has grown over the years, how his career evolved through different leadership roles and positions to eventually become President and CEO, and where the company now stands as he gets ready to transition into retirement. Mike shares a number of leadership lessons and talks about the importance of community engagement and giving back, and how that focus on making a difference will continue, as he continues to serve on a number of boards. It's an interview that touches on the importance of family, faith, community service and the rare experiences of building a 45+ year legacy of leadership at one company with a heart for coaching and serving people.
To learn more about Pickering Firm, Inc. visit https://www.pickeringfirm.com.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
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This episode of the ChangeMakers podcast, produced by CityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services, features an insightful conversation with Kathy Mull, the Executive Director of The Cocoon, a comprehensive domestic and sexual violence agency located in Wood County, Ohio. Hosted by Jeremy C. Park, the episode delves into the critical issues of domestic and intimate partner relationship violence, highlighting the work of The Cocoon and its innovative programs like Champions of Change.
Kathy Mull's Journey and Inspiration:
- Kathy Mull shares her background growing up in a small town in Ohio, which instilled in her the importance of community care but also exposed her to hidden struggles within families.
- Despite initial reservations about social work, influenced by her mother's psychology background and her own observations of unhealthy relationships among her peers in high school, Kathy was drawn to the profession as a way to support survivors of violence.
- She emphasizes that her understanding of social work evolved beyond child protective services to encompass a broad spectrum of support for individuals in need.
- Kathy defines a social worker as someone who walks alongside individuals during difficult times, opens doors, provides support in a safe space, and fosters community.
- She holds a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Toledo and a Master of Social Work from Eastern Michigan and has over 22 years of experience serving survivors.
- Kathy is one of a small number of individuals who completed the Advocacy Learning Center course through Praxis International, underscoring her specialized training and expertise in supporting survivors.
The Cocoon: Providing Safety, Healing, and Justice:
- Established in 2005, The Cocoon provides shelter and advocacy services to survivors of various forms of violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment, sex trafficking, stalking, and adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
- Located in Bowling Green, Ohio, The Cocoon serves Wood County, a largely rural area where resources for survivors were limited before its establishment.
- The impetus for The Cocoon's creation was heightened by four domestic violence homicides in the community, which underscored the need for local support.
- The Cocoon offers 24/7 support, 365 days a year, always at no cost to the survivor.
- The organization's mission is to provide safety, healing, and justice for survivors and all those affected by abuse, while also engaging in educational outreach.
- Kathy notes the significant increase in demand for services during the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased isolation and other factors, and highlights that the healing process for survivors is now often longer and more intensive.
- The Cocoon serves an average of 850 to 900 survivors a year locally.
Champions of Change: Engaging the Workplace:
- Champions of Change is an innovative program developed by The Cocoon to partner with local businesses and organizations to support employees experiencing or at risk of domestic and sexual violence.
- The program aims to expand the safety net for survivors and prevent violence by creating safe workplaces and providing resources and education to employees.
- Recognizing that employees often confide in coworkers or supervisors before seeking formal help, the program equips workplaces to offer initial support and connect individuals with resources.
- The program also addresses the issue of survivors losing their jobs due to the impact of abuse on their work performance or abusers interfering at the workplace.
- Champions of Change provides businesses with workshops and resources to educate stakeholders and employees, fostering a corporate culture that does not tolerate violence.
- Kathy highlights the importance of a partnership approach, tailoring the program to the specific needs and culture of each organization.
- The program emphasizes proactive engagement rather than solely reacting to identified problems, sending a message that the company cares about its employees' well-being.
- A key aspect of the program involves training leadership and HR personnel first to equip them with the tools and language to support employees who disclose abuse.
- Kathy shares red flags that employers can be aware of, such as changes in work performance, increased absenteeism, implausible excuses, lateness, eagerness to leave work, changes in demeanor, and visible signs of physical abuse.
- The program provides employers with strategies for intervention and problem-solving to support affected employees while maintaining business productivity.
Lessons Learned and the Impact of the Work:
- Kathy emphasizes that every organization is different, necessitating a tailored approach to partnership.
- Overcoming employer reluctance by framing the program as proactive support rather than an admission of problems is crucial.
- The transformative impact of the program on workplace culture and the lives of survivors has been significant, exemplified by the partnership with Principal Business Enterprises (PBE).
- Kathy's work is deeply rooted in her identity as a social worker, prioritizing people first in all aspects of her role as Executive Director.
- She underscores that nonprofit organizations are businesses with a social mission.
- The stories of survivors have profoundly impacted Kathy, reinforcing the importance of creating spaces where their experiences are valued and where they can find safety and healing.
- This work has provided Kathy with a voice to advocate for survivors in broader community conversations, connecting issues like economics and housing to the prevalence of gender-based violence.
- She believes that social change, achieved through collective effort and open conversations, is essential to eradicating violence.
Call to Action and Getting Involved:
- Kathy encourages listeners to learn about and support their local domestic violence programs and Rape Crisis Centers.
- She highlights the importance of understanding where resources are lacking in communities.
- There are various ways to contribute to the cause, including financial donations, volunteering time and skills, and acting as a connector to link individuals with needed support.
- Being a safe person to listen and offering to connect individuals with resources is a vital form of support.
- The Cocoon's website, https://thecocoon.org, provides comprehensive information about their programs, ways to support them, and contact details.
- Their 24/7 hotline for accessing services or getting help is 419-373-1730, option 2.
This podcast episode offers valuable insights into the pervasive issue of domestic and sexual violence and the critical role of community-based organizations like The Cocoon. Kathy Mull's personal journey and her leadership in developing innovative programs like Champions of Change demonstrate the power of collaboration in creating safer communities for survivors and preventing future violence. It serves as a powerful call to action for individuals and businesses to become part of the solution.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
Be inspired by more positive media by following cityCURRENT here: www.cityCURRENT.com
During the interview, Monnie talks about how growing up in Dayton, Ohio, and spending summers working on a family farm in Kentucky, picking tobacco and baling hay, helped form a work ethic that continues to drive success today. He talks about father's service and his family's legacy of service and how that led him to serve in the US Marine Corps, then seek to serve locally as a police officer. After a distinguished 15-year career in law enforcement, Monnie was recognized with prestigious state and local awards, including multi Officer of the Year and Medals of Valor. Monnie shares how an accident and injury led him to pivot and become a Vice President of a private investigations firm, spearheading nationwide investigations into corporate espionage, fraud, and internal theft, but then how his faith and heart led him to launch V1CTORY PROJECT to help the very youth and families he got to know while in law enforcement, but didn't have the ability to effectively serve and support. He talks candidly about the challenges of being a police officer and yet the importance of the role and power of relationships to support the community. He then talks in-depth about V1CTORY PROJECT, the early days and the growth to now being able to serve and support one hundred youth across two campuses.
Monnie shares the V1CTORY PROJECT model and some of the valuable lessons learned along they way serving disengaged youth, and giving them something to believe in, to fight for and want to be part of and attend. He shares how accountability is a love language and how Authenticity, Consistency, and Proximity create Opportunity. Monnie also talks about how this work has impacted his own family, as a husband to Kelly and father of four sons. It's an important conversation centered on how we can more effectively engage our youth, live out our faith, uplift our community, and create lasting, positive change.
Visit https://victoryproject.org/ to learn more about V1CTORY PROJECT.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
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In this episode of the ChangeMakers Podcast, host Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Dr. Stewart Burgess, CEO of the Children's Museum of Memphis (CMOM). With over 25 years dedicated to childhood development, Dr. Burgess shares his fascinating journey—from early inspirations in childhood to groundbreaking research in emotional and cognitive processes—and how it all culminates in his leadership at CMOM.
Dr. Burgess discusses the importance of play in childhood learning, how emotions influence memory and suggestibility, and the impact of enriching environments on brain development. He provides an in-depth look at CMOM’s innovative exhibits, including the newly launched Mississippi River exhibit and upcoming STEAM-focused learning spaces. Dr. Burgess also highlights CMOM’s efforts to ensure accessibility for all families, working collaboratively with organizations like Porter-Leath and St. Jude to provide enriching experiences for underserved communities.
Listeners will be inspired by Dr. Burgess’ passion for education, his vision for the future of early childhood learning, and his dedication to fostering creativity, innovation, and equity in the Greater Memphis area. Whether you're a parent, educator, or community member, this episode will leave you with actionable insights on how to inspire and empower the next generation.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
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In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the ChangeMakers Podcast, host Jeremy C. Park sits down with Taylor and Carter English, co-founders of The Rise School of San Antonio, to explore the transformative power of faith, family, and purpose-driven action. Their journey begins with personal challenges—the birth of their daughter Isabelle, who was diagnosed with Down syndrome—and evolves into a mission to redefine inclusion and early intervention for children with special needs.
Through their story, listeners witness the couple's unwavering commitment to turning challenges into blessings. From Carter's transition from coaching and sports to insurance and leadership at Higginbotham, to Taylor’s poignant reflections on motherhood and resilience, their narrative highlights how purpose and community can fuel extraordinary impact.
The couple's creation of The Rise School of San Antonio emerges as a testament to their vision of a better world—not just for Isabelle, but for all children who deserve tailored care and education. They share moving moments of personal growth, the generosity of others, and the collective effort required to build something greater than themselves.
Key themes in this episode include:
• The importance of embracing unexpected challenges with faith and determination.
• How small, consistent steps create ripple effects that inspire broader change.
• The power of community and leadership in making dreams a reality.
• Celebrating progress, big and small, as life’s most meaningful milestones.
Listeners will leave inspired to look inward, find their own unique ways to make a difference, and embrace life’s unexpected turns as opportunities for growth.
This episode is a powerful reminder that, when fueled by purpose and love, even the hardest challenges can lead to the most profound transformations.
To learn more or donate, please visit the Rise School of San Antonio website at riseschoolsa.org.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
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This 100th ChangeMakers Podcast episode honors the legacy, career, and calling of Dr. Kenneth S. Robinson, who has been intertwining medicine and ministry for decades to transform lives and communities. Join host Jeremy C. Park as he talks with Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, M.D., who announced his retirement in June 2024, after serving as President and CEO of United Way of the Mid-South for more than nine years. Dr. Robinson became President and CEO in February 2015 after nearly 25 years as a volunteer and Board member of United Way of the Mid-South, the region's largest public, exclusively charitable foundation.
During the interview, Dr. Robinson shares how being born premature and facing illnesses paved the way for his calling to pursue medicine, how his parents fostered a focus on education and faith, and how they instilled the confidence for him to succeed. He discusses how his paths for medicine and ministry started to become intertwined while at Harvard College and Harvard Medical School, and how those callings came with personal sacrifices and hard decisions. Dr. Robinson reflects on meeting his wife and how they've built their family, how and why he balanced working at Vanderbilt while pursing a Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt Divinity School, and then the transition to serving in the Governor's Cabinet as Tennessee's Commissioner of Health from 2003-2007.
Dr. Robinson talks about serving as Pastor and CEO of St. Andrew AME Church in Memphis and how they worked to transform South Memphis, and then what led him to United Way of the Mid-South, where his legacy will be the social entrepreneurial approach that he brought to human services through Driving The Dream™ Identifying poverty as the critical, underlying issue impacting every facet of our community, Driving The Dream™, established in 2016, currently connects over 170 independent agencies and organizations in a system of care for people living in, or at risk, of poverty. The network of support allows individuals in need to connect to available resources with a single phone call or visit to a participating agency. Through a shared database and communication system, multiple agencies are able to offer services to families. Driving The Dream™ Care Coordinators, or case managers, assist families in building their own roadmap to self-sufficiency. To date, Driving The Dream™ has helped over 15,000 individuals advance toward financial stability.
Dr. Robinson wraps up with some of the lessons learned, his advice and encouragement for those who want to make a difference, and a fun, lightning round of short questions and answers where he shares what he likes to do to relax, his love of the Memphis Grizzlies, favorite Bible verses, and his plans for the future.
About Dr. Kenneth S. Robinson:
Dr. Robinson’s bi-professional synthesis of medicine and ministry has made him a strong leader in the areas of public policy, health and healthcare, and community development at the highest levels of local, state and national impact. He served in the Governor’s Cabinet as Tennessee’s Commissioner of Health (2003-2007), guiding significant contracting and grant-making authority within his Department’s $548 million budget. Prior to joining United Way, he was the consultant and public health policy advisor to the Mayor of Shelby County (2008-2015) and Chair of “Healthy Shelby,” which was highlighted by United Way Worldwide as a replicable model of public/private collective impact.
For 25 years (1991-2016), Dr. Robinson also served as Pastor and CEO of St. Andrew AME Church in Memphis; developing health and human services, high-quality childcare, Pre-K and K-5 education, and economic development initiatives. He founded an associated CDC, The Works, Inc., a very effective nonprofit that partners with United Way to impact lives locally. The entire St. Andrew Enterprise has become a major stakeholder in creating a healthy, sustainable community; responsible for over $22 million of new investment in South Memphis.
In 2000, United Way of America (now United Way Worldwide) awarded him its Community Builder of the Year award; recognizing both his local volunteer work with United Way and his formative community work through St. Andrew. Dr. Robinson has held board and leadership positions with numerous nonprofits, foundations, colleges, civic organizations, health-related entities and “think-tank” groups across the Mid-South and Tennessee. He holds a Bachelor of Arts, cum laude, from Harvard College; the Doctor of Medicine degree from Harvard Medical School; and a Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt Divinity School.
He and his wife, Marilynn, have twin daughters – both accomplished physicians.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with ChangeMaker, Gabrielle Thompson, President and CEO of IDEAS (International Development and Educational Associates), who shares her personal and professional journey, highlighting how stepping into hard moments and saying "yes" can transform the world.
During the interview, Gabrielle talks about growing up in a family of creatives and how lessons learned from her parents carry through today, noting that creating a new nonprofit program is like creating a piece of art. She talks about being born in Los Angeles, California and moving to Nashville, Tennessee, when she was six, and how around that same timeframe, she started to become interested in helping other girls her age around the world overcome social challenges and improve their lives after looking at pictures and asking her parents a lot of questions. She shares how that curiosity and passion led her to focus on making a difference globally throughout high school and college and led her to start traveling overseas to learn, serve, and volunteer at an early age, which paved the way for her to step into leadership roles and become the CEO of an international anti-human trafficking organization.
Gabrielle talks about her transition to become the President and CEO of IDEAS and discusses their asset-based approach to help communities and individuals flourish by helping to remove barriers to dignity. She shares some stories that have changed her life and perspective on leadership, talks about how working globally has impacted her perspective locally, and how individuals can turn anger into positive action to make a difference. This powerful episode will inspire you and enlighten you, and it will show you how stepping into hard moments and saying "yes" can transform the world.
Visit https://ideasworld.org to learn more about IDEAS and Gabrielle Thompson.
About Gabrielle Thompson:
Gabrielle Thompson has a heart for empowerment, justice and serving vulnerable populations around the globe. She has worked as a development practitioner in South and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Latin America. Thompson is the current President and CEO, for IDEAS (International Development and Educational Associates), where they work help communities and individuals flourish by helping to remove barriers to dignity. Prior to leading IDEAS, Gabrielle was the CEO of an international anti-human trafficking organization for eight years, and an adjunct professor in the Masters of International Affairs program at Middle Tennessee State University. Thompson was awarded Nashville’s Top Professionals 30 under 30 in 2018 by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Nashville Business Journal’s Top 40 under 40 Professionals in 2020, and Middle Tennessee State Universities’ Alumni Achievement Award in 2021. Thompson previously worked in gender-based development initiatives in Costa Rica and Turkey and holds a Master of International Affairs from Middle Tennessee State University.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Chris Powers, Founder and Executive Chairman of Fort Capital and host of The Fort Podcast, who shares his personal and professional journey and highlights the intersection of mentorship and business growth.
During the interview, Chris talks about growing up in El Paso and Lubbock, Texas, and how he started getting into real estate after seeking mentorship from another young entrepreneur who inspired him as a college student at Texas Christian University. He shares some fun stories and lessons learned during the early years of being an entrepreneur and talks about how those experiences have helped build and shape the company today. What started with residential real estate evolved into a focus on multi-family and now Class B industrial, after teaming with Jason Baxter, who is CEO and President, and building the business structure for scalability to become "the best real estate operator in the world."
Fort Capital is a privately-owned real estate investment firm with a track record of transacting more than $2 billion in assets throughout Texas, Florida, and Tennessee. Fort's mission is to acquire prime real estate, operate with excellence, and deliver exceptional returns to all stakeholders.
Chris discusses why Fort Capital narrowed its focus on Class B industrial after he and Jason read "Good to Great" by Jim Collins, and how they have built a culture based on the purpose of creating a place that attracts the most talented individuals and provides an environment that inspires them to be their absolute best. He talks about some of the industry trends, current challenges and opportunities, and then some of the lessons he has learned from guests on The Fort podcast. The Fort is an entrepreneurship podcast hosted by Chris Powers. Each episode’s mission is to help you to level up your entrepreneurial game by hearing directly from the men and women in the arena. Chris talks about how "Great takes time" and uses his recent podcast episode featuring Rusty Reid of Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services as an example.
Throughout the interview, though, Chris talks about the importance of mentorship and how others have helped guide and shape his personal, professional and spiritual journey, and led to his own growth and development and that of his business. He shares valuable lessons and advice from his father and how his father continues to impact his life everyday, even after his loss; and how his mother, wife, and family inspire and guide him with his faith. He wraps up with a fun lighting round that touches on golf, travel, the power of anonymous giving to help others in need, and creating a legacy of giving more in the community.
Visit www.fortcapitallp.com to learn more about Fort Capital. Visit www.thefortpod.com to learn more about The Fort Podcast hosted by Chris Powers and to watch and listen to past episodes.
About Chris Powers:
Chris is a serial entrepreneur with more than 20 years of real estate development and investment experience. He founded Fort Capital and to date, the company has invested over $2B in Class B industrial, and land development projects throughout the state of Texas and the Sunbelt.
Chris spends time focusing on Fort’s long-term strategy, fostering strategic relationships, and building capital relationships that will help complement the firm’s growth. He is also the host of The FORT Podcast, a Top 100 Business Podcast that has published 340+ episodes to date through a series of raw business conversations with business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Chris graduated with a BBA in Finance & Marketing from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, TX. Chris is a member of the Fort Worth YPO Chapter and attends Christ Chapel Bible Church. He lives in Fort Worth, TX with his family.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
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On this episode, we have the pleasure of diving into the world of community transformation with Dr. Chris Lambert, a visionary who's redefining nonprofit success and neighborhood revitalization.
Dr. Chris Lambert is the founder and CEO of Life Remodeled, an award-winning author of "Next Level Nonprofit," and founder of the Next Level Nonprofit organizational operating system. His journey began far from the nonprofit sphere, with aspirations of law school and dreams of a lucrative career in real estate development. However, during his junior year at Indiana University, a profound spiritual awakening redirected his path towards a more service-oriented life.
After earning his MDiv and a doctorate in preaching, Chris, along with his wife, moved to Liberia where they played a pivotal role in helping a village drill a well, acquire farm animals, and build their very first school. This transformative experience in Liberia set the stage for what would become his life's work. Upon returning to the U.S., Chris founded the church Ekklesia and shortly thereafter, in 2010, launched Life Remodeled. This impactful organization focuses on repurposing vacant school buildings into vibrant community centers and spearheading sustainable neighborhood revitalization projects. Dr. Lambert's work has not only earned him recognition on platforms like TEDx and accolades such as Crain’s 40 Under 40, but also the admiration of communities and leaders around the nation. Yet, for Chris, the true excitement lies in the journey ahead and the people who join him in making a lasting difference.
In today’s episode, Dr. Lambert shares invaluable insights into creating scalable, sustainable, and impactful nonprofit organizations. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of turning abandoned structures into thriving community hubs, the importance of community involvement in revitalization projects, and how other nonprofit leaders can apply the principles of his Next Level Nonprofit system to magnify their impact.
Join us as we explore the transformative power of dedication, community, and innovative thinking with Dr. Chris Lambert on ChangeMakers.
Visit https://liferemodeled.org/ to learn more about Life Remodeled or https://www.nlncoaching.org.
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Welcome to this inspiring episode of the ChangeMakers Podcast, where we dive into the importance and power of community colleges, civic engagement, and mentorship with one of host Jeremy C. Park's closest friends from grade school in Weatherford, Texas, Dr. Molly M. Harris, Vice President of Community Engagement at Grayson College.
Dr. Harris has been a beacon in higher education for over 21 years, deeply committed to enriching lives and fostering community ties. Dr. Harris also is the one responsible for introducing Jeremy to his wife, Meredith, so this ChangeMakers episode offers a lot of fun, personal backstories between host and guest.
Dr. Harris's academic journey began with a spark of passion for drama at Weatherford College, leading her to earn an Associate of Arts. She expanded her horizon at Texas A&M-Commerce, where she claimed both a BS in Theatre and an MS in Higher Education Administration. Her pursuit of educational leadership peaked with a Ph.D. in Community College Leadership from Mississippi State University.
Today, Dr. Harris is the Vice President of Community Engagement at Grayson College, where she’s a major force behind initiatives that range from foundational work and strategic communications to overseeing grants and the South Campus. Her role is crucial in integrating the college’s resources with the community’s growth, bringing education and community service together.
Dr. Harris's dedication stretches into numerous community boards, from the Denison Area Chamber of Commerce to the United Way of Grayson County, showcasing her belief in the ripple effect of civic engagement.
Living in Denison with her husband, Mark, and their daughter, Parker, Dr. Harris is a proud community member, a Mississippi State athletics fan, and a devoted family woman.
In our conversation, Dr. Harris shares her personal and professional evolution, her pivotal role in shaping community college initiatives, and her insights on how mentorship and civic engagement can dramatically uplift careers. She believes community colleges are not just educational institutions but launchpads for societal contributions and personal growth.
Join us as Dr. Harris enlightens us on making significant impacts, both in our careers and communities, through the nurturing grounds of community colleges. It’s a journey of empowerment, engagement, and finding one's voice in the vast world of opportunities that community colleges provide.
Visit www.grayson.edu to learn more about Grayson College and email harrism@grayson.edu to connect directly with Dr. Molly Harris.
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During the interview, Jerry talks about growing up in Northern California and going through traumatic experiences with his family. He shares how he was able to move forward in college and work with a friend to launch a durable medical equipment business, and how his frustration of working with attorneys caused him to go to law school to help his company. Jerry's pursuit of learning and practical application for the law led him in a new direction with a defined sense of purpose to help others beyond his company. Jerry talks about his time in law school and then his pivot to becoming an attorney, and ultimately, how he and his wife were then called to start Immix Law Group.
Jerry highlights Immix Law Group, the industry change agent that serves as a catalyst for innovation by representing diverse, international, and trailblazing clientele at every stage of the business lifecycle. He talks about the importance of understanding a client’s “Why" and your own "Why," and how he and his team have safeguards in place to make sure the proper perspective and priorities always remain in place. He talks about moving to the Franklin, Tennessee area, how he draws inspiration from his wife and daughters, and how he and his wife have strategically invested in and helped lift nonprofits in their communities.
Throughout the interview, Jerry shares how faith has played an integral role in his personal and professional journey, and how he values the opportunity to help others become closer to God. It's an interview that shares a powerful story, helpful advice, and inspiration for the power of purpose and helping others.
Visit https://immixlaw.com/ to learn more about Immix Law Group and to connect directly with Jerry Carleton.
About Jerry Carleton:
Jerry Carleton, founder and principal of Immix Law Group, is a seasoned corporate and securities attorney specializing in advising private emerging and growth-stage companies on various corporate, finance, and securities matters. His expertise encompasses pre-formation planning, entity formation, capital raising, securities compliance, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, leasing and contractual issues, and general business advisory. Jerry also brings experience in estate planning and intellectual property law.
Jerry’s clientele spans diverse industries, including technology, SaaS, cryptocurrency, VR/MR/XR, professional and medical services, wellness services, medical devices, non-profit, manufacturing, automotive, wineries, retail, art services, creative agencies, marketing and print, graphic design, CPA services, realty and real estate acquisition, mortgage planning, fashion, apparel, upholstery, and recreation.
The name "Immix" signifies “to combine,” reflecting the firm's core mission to blend business and law seamlessly. Jerry and Heather Carleton established Immix to offer a unique partnership approach with privately held companies, focusing on growth and acquisitions, intellectual property, employment, corporate governance, fundraising, and corporate litigation.
Immix Law Group leverages cross-functional teams with real-world experience to craft creative legal strategies that align with business objectives. Serving a global clientele, Immix provides tailored solutions and appropriate team sizes for various transactions, ensuring that legal services enhance ROI and facilitate deals rather than being a mere formality.
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Gene Garcia, Outreach Director with Heartland Adult & Teen Challenge, who shares his personal story of how the nonprofit organization saved his life and highlights their mission and efforts as a long-term, faith-based drug and alcohol treatment program for adult males, ages 18 and up.
During the interview, Gene discusses their highly structured program for men who have reached their rock bottom and are ready for a complete life change. Their program focuses on Christian principles while helping men develop life skills that will aid them in the practical side of their recovery. Interpersonal skills and healthy relationships are focused on to help heal broken bonds with family, and work skills are developed so men can not only maintain sobriety but also have the practical skills necessary to be productive members of society. Gene talks about their different locations between Memphis, Middle Tennessee and Murfreesboro, how the community can support their efforts, and how individuals seeking help can take their first steps toward life transformation.
Call 833-462-8286 or visit www.atctn.org for more information.
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Sallie Hussey, CEO of FiftyForward, and Charmin Bates, Founder and CEO of Creative Girls Rock, who highlight each of their nonprofit organizations and the story behind the Bordeaux Collaborative, a partnership with FiftyForward and Creative Girls Rock to build a new $6 million center designed to connect community members to resources, programming and shared community space. The idea to create the Bordeaux Collaborative was formed in 2019 through a community needs assessment conducted by FiftyForward and multiple nonprofits in the city.
During the interview, Sallie touches on FiftyForward's mission and efforts to support, champion and enhance life for those 50 and over as a leading resource for those who seek to live longer and more fulfilling lives. Charmin highlights Creative Girls Rock, which educates and empowers young girls and women to utilize their creative talents to enhance their lives and the world around them. Both then discuss the vision for the Bordeaux Collaborative, talk about the multi-purpose facility, provide an update on the public fundraising campaign, and how the community can get involved.
Visit www.fiftyforward.org to learn more about FiftyForward, and www.creativegirlsrock.org to learn more about Creative Girls Rock. Both sites feature links to learn more and support the Bordeaux Collaborative.
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Travis Claybrooks, Founder and CEO of Raphah Institute, who shares some of his personal story and what led him to launch the nonprofit based in Nashville, Tennessee, which "helps people access what they need to heal and thrive." The organization addresses issues surrounding youth and young adult incarceration and victim trauma by using restorative practices in felony juvenile court cases. Together, all parties talk about the harm caused, its impact, and ways to repair it. Raphah is a Hebrew verb that means to heal. It literally means to mend by stitching, very much like you would repair a torn garment, which is the vision and work or Raphah Institute.
During the interview, Travis talks about their unique model and current initiatives, their expansion into working with adults in Nashville and youth in Memphis, Tennessee, and a recent story of impact. He also talks about their new program, Early Embrace, which works towards the holistic wellbeing of young children, their families, and their communities by supporting healing and restorative early childhood learning. Travis wraps up with how the community can support their efforts, as they confront and solve root causes of societal harm, giving families and communities a chance to restore and heal.
Visit www.raphah.org to learn more and get involved.
https://www.facebook.com/raphahinstitute
https://twitter.com/RaphahInstitute
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Will Brown, Managing Partner of The Benefits Group, who highlights how his company is able to help small to medium size organizations offer “Fortune 500 benefits.”
During the interview, Will discusses transparency in coverage legislation and why it matters, how Tennessee and Texas soon will be opening up opportunities for consumers to take advantage of cost savings, and how these will become trends shaping the future. Will talks about the competitive advantages in offering benefits, some of the different options companies can pursue, and how the options are becoming more customizable. Will wraps up with how technology is making the whole process easy, and then a tip for how business owners can approach the process to get the most out of it for their business and their employees.
Visit https://www.thebenefits.group for more information.
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-benefits-group/about/
https://www.facebook.com/thebestbenefits/
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Bill Martin, CEO, and Rick Wiseman, COO, who are both Co-Founders of The Shepherd Co., which has created the The Shepherd Cares App to be a bridge from chaos to calm by providing a suite of tools in an app and an online caregiver community that together helps caregivers navigate the caregiver journey to support their loved ones with calm confidence.
During the interview, Bill and Rick share their personal stories as caregivers and the backstory to what led them to come together and create the app and online community. They talk about the caregiver crisis currently taking place in America and how that also impact employers. They then spotlight some of the different attributes of the app and resources available and how caregivers can start by downloading the app and accessing the platform. They also offer a special enterprise code, "CITY" for the first 100 viewers/listeners to take advantage of after watching or listening to the interview.
Visit www.shepherdcares.com to learn more.
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Ann Jarvis, USO Executive Director of USO Fort Campbell / Nashville, who highlights the mission and efforts of the nonprofit organization focused on strengthening the well-being of the people serving in America's military and their families.
During the interview, Ann shares some of the history for the organization, which was started in 1941, and talks about their efforts around the world. Today's USO continuously adapts to the needs of our men and women in uniform and their families, so they can focus on their very important mission. The organization operates USO centers at or near military installations across the United States and throughout the world, including in combat zones and airport centers that offer around-the-clock hospitality for traveling service members and their families.
Ann discusses how the USO is a congressionally chartered, private organization that is not part of the federal government, and how the USO relies on the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations to support its activities, and is powered by a family of volunteers to accomplish their mission. She talks about some of their different programs, their impact, how she got involved, and how the community can support their efforts.
Visit www.uso.org to learn more and get involved.
https://www.facebook.com/theUSO
https://twitter.com/the_uso
https://www.linkedin.com/company/theuso/
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Diane Mershon Heyman, President of DMH Consulting, who shares some of her background working for more than 30 years in the Human Resources profession leading teams, building people and process capabilities, while driving strategies that aligned with business goals and growth.
During the interview, Diane shares some of her experiences working as a senior HR leader with the global brand, Hilton, and then as the Chief People Officer & SVP with the nonprofit organization, ALSAC - St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and how those experiences and the desire for more flexibility led her to launch DMH Consulting, LLC. Diane talks about how she is helping businesses with a combination of HR services, and provides some examples of recent projects, ranging from HR Strategy Development to HR Assessments and from Leadership Interviews to Employee Relations. Diane then talks about some of the major trends, like Leadership Succession Planning, Re-skilling and Up-skilling, and the importance of developing your team. She wraps up with a tip to help with leadership development.
Visit www.dmhconsultingllc.com to learn more.
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Patricia Powell, Executive Director with National Autism Peer Support, who shares helpful context and her personal story and perspective to provide a better understanding of Autism and then highlights the nonprofit organization's mission and efforts to provide a safe place for individuals with autism and their support networks to find resources, acceptance, and understanding while working to educate the community to increase awareness.
During the interview, Patricia discusses how neurologically diverse individuals process information differently and how that impacts their ability to read social cues, block out or focus on certain things and stimuli, and enjoy different environments and experiences. She shares some personal examples, talks about the changing terminology and terms, and how "When you've met one person with autism, you've met one person with autism." Patricia describes National Autism Peer Support's current programming with monthly meetings, their peer support, and how they are working to provide employment resources to help older teens and adults with autism navigate getting a job by learning how to write a resume and take advantage of other resources and services to support their independence and growth. She wraps up with ways the community can support their efforts.
Visit www.nashvilleautismpeersupport.org to learn more and get involved.
https://www.facebook.com/NashAPS4you
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Jennifer Vaida, Chief Strategy Officer with Nurture the Next, who highlights the nonprofit organization that supports parents through evidence-based programs, education and advocacy efforts.
During the interview, Jennifer shares some of the history for the organization, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary, and talks about how they provide in-home parenting support in 30 counties in Tennessee and offer statewide programs that include parenting classes and parent leadership opportunities. She talks about the importance of taking a hands-on approach during the first five years of a child's life, when their brain is developing the fastest, and how participation in their programs is voluntary, free, and confidential. Jennifer also covers some of the major issues facing families and how they are working with other agencies and state partners to help create a safe and stable future for all Tennesseans. She wraps up with ways the community can support their efforts.
Visit www.nurturethenext.org to learn more and get involved.
https://www.facebook.com/NurturetheNext
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Jennifer Vaida, Chief Strategy Officer with Nurture the Next, who highlights the nonprofit organization that supports parents through evidence-based programs, education and advocacy efforts.
During the interview, Jennifer shares some of the history for the organization, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary, and talks about how they provide in-home parenting support in 30 counties in Tennessee and offer statewide programs that include parenting classes and parent leadership opportunities. She talks about the importance of taking a hands-on approach during the first five years of a child's life, when their brain is developing the fastest, and how participation in their programs is voluntary, free, and confidential. Jennifer also covers some of the major issues facing families and how they are working with other agencies and state partners to help create a safe and stable future for all Tennesseans. She wraps up with ways the community can support their efforts.
Visit www.nurturethenext.org to learn more and get involved.
https://www.facebook.com/NurturetheNext
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Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Joe Huff and Bridget Hilton, Authors of "Experiential Billionaire: Build a Life Rich in Experiences and Die with No Regrets," who share how they both started their lives with zero connections, money, fame, or education, and yet by leaning into the joy of remarkable experiences, they discovered their power to transform lives. Bridget and Joe have spent years interviewing social science experts, conducting one of the largest surveys on life experiences ever done. Together they started the world's first social good electronics company and have provided more than 50,000 people with the gift of hearing aids and hearing for the first time. They have trained to be samurai, danced with the northern lights, tracked silverback gorillas in a hailstorm, and studied with monks, and built schools for kids in need.
During the interview, Joe and Bridget discuss some of those experiences and how they shaped their deeper exploration around the importance of shifting people's mindset from living "someday" to living today. They talk about their book and speaking, and both share valuable tips to renew a sense of urgency to achieve personal and professional goals and investing in the power of experiences.
Visit https://www.experientialbillionaire.com to learn more. You can also visit their individual websites at https://joehuff.com or https://bridgethilton.com to learn more and connect with Joe and Bridget.
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Host: Jeremy C. Park
Guest: Leigh Mansberg, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South
Episode Overview:
In this enlightening conversation, host Jeremy C. Park sits down with Leigh Mansberg, a notable leader in nonprofit education. As the helm of Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South, Leigh shares her inspiring journey from a classroom teacher to a leading advocate for educational transformation. This episode dives into how her upbringing in an entrepreneurial family in Pine Bluff, Arkansas shaped her understanding of the crucial role of failure and resilience in success.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Leigh’s Educational and Professional Background: From teaching to leading a major educational nonprofit.
- Importance of Entrepreneurship and Business Acumen: How Leigh's strategic career shifts have amplified her impact on education.
- Innovative Programs at Junior Achievement: A look at how these initiatives are preparing students for real-world challenges.
- Community Involvement and Support: Ways the audience can contribute to the success of educational programs.
- Empowerment through Education: Junior Achievement’s mission to prepare kids to be proactive, capable members of society.
About Leigh Mansberg: Leigh Mansberg, with over 25 years in educational leadership, spearheads Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South. Under her leadership, the organization educates K-12 students across three states in entrepreneurship, work readiness, and financial literacy. Leigh's recognition as a Super Woman in Business underscores her commitment to creating inclusive, equitable, and engaging learning environments.
Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South: Dedicated to empowering children to be "world ready," Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South offers hands-on programs that prepare students for economic success. For more details on how to get involved or support, visit www.jamemphis.org or call 901.366.7800.
Memorable Quote: "Seeing promise everywhere and being intentional are the keys to lifelong learning and success." - Leigh Mansberg
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Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode of the ChangeMakers Podcast, host Jeremy C. Park sits down with Alma Lee Alexander McLemore, Executive Director of the African American Heritage Society of Williamson County. A native of Franklin, Tennessee, Alma shares her journey from growing up in a community at the cusp of integration to becoming a cornerstone in preserving African American history in Williamson County. Throughout the conversation, Alma reflects on her upbringing, her extensive career in community service, and her dedication to educational and heritage preservation efforts.
Key Points & Highlights:
Introduction to Alma Lee Alexander McLemore: Discover Alma's roots in Williamson County and her experiences growing up during a pivotal time in its history.
Family and Faith: Alma talks about the strong foundation her parents built, centered on faith and caring for others, shaping her lifelong commitment to community service.
Career and Community Service: Learn about Alma's 38-year tenure at Middle Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation and her seamless transition into various roles within community organizations.
Board Memberships and Leadership: Explore Alma's significant impact through her work with numerous boards, including Habitat for Humanity, Community Housing Partnership, and the African American Heritage Society.
Awards and Recognition: Celebrate Alma's numerous accolades recognizing her leadership, volunteerism, and contributions to the community.
Importance of Family: Alma shares the joy she finds in spending time with her family, including her two sons, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
Mission and Inspiration: Gain insight into Alma's daily mission to be a source of light and her drive to preserve African American history for future generations.
Supporting the African American Heritage Society: Alma concludes with ways the community can get involved in supporting the preservation of African American history and culture.
How to Get Involved: For listeners inspired by Alma's dedication and wishing to support the African American Heritage Society of Williamson County's mission, visit www.aahswc.org to learn more about their programs and how you can contribute to their important work.
Episode Takeaway: Alma Lee Alexander McLemore's story is a powerful testament to the impact of faith, family, and unwavering commitment to community service. Her work not only honors the past but also paves the way for future generations to learn from and be inspired by African American history.
Join us on the ChangeMakers Podcast as we dive into the life and legacy of Alma Lee Alexander McLemore, a true changemaker whose work continues to enlighten, educate, and empower the community of Williamson County and beyond.
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ChangeMakers podcast host Jeremy C. Park talks with Tammy Alvarez, CEO and founder of Career Winners Circle, professional keynote speaker, and author of "Escaping the Career Trap: Transform Your Apathy into Ambition and Never Hate Mondays Again," who shares some of her personal story and how she formed her spirited "Break All the Rules" approach.
During her twenty-year corporate career, Tammy became renowned as a business transformation and turnaround expert on Wall Street. Her roles included Managing Director at AIG, First Senior Vice President at Bank Leumi USA, Chief Operating Officer at Genesis10, and Senior Vice President at Bank of America. Her "Break All the Rules" approach blends the decades of C-Suite experience with a pragmatic, results-based coaching style that helps business professionals create a big impact and love every Monday again.
Her recent book, "Escaping The Career Trap: Transform Your Apathy into Ambition and Never Hate Mondays Again," is a self-leadership blueprint for high achievers who want to experience career fulfillment.
During the interview, Tammy talks about the importance of not being afraid to fail because failure is part of success, why it is important to slow down before moving faster, especially with larger organizations, and how you can start to take control and become the CEO of your career. She talks about writing her book and lessons from it, lessons from working on Wall Street and how she and her partner Steve have adopted an ex-pat lifestyle, currently residing in Mexico City, and traveling all around the globe to hike and scuba dive.
Learn more about Career Winners Circle by visiting www.careerwinnerscircle.com and learn more about her book by visiting www.escapingthecareertrap.com.
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During this episode of our ChangeMakers Podcast, host Jeremy C. Park talks with Zach Montroy, who is a People, Team, and Organizational Strategist and the Founder and CEO of The Intention Collective, which is based in the Nashville, Tennessee area. During the interview, Zach shares some of his personal story and why, after more than 20 years of experience in executive roles, he started focusing his efforts on helping entrepreneurs scale and grow their companies through healthy teams by building brave workplaces.
Zach looks back on his first management experience in high school at KB Toys and how he then built his career seeking out mentorship and opportunities to lead by building positive cultures and high-functioning teams. He defines and talks about the importance of building brave workplaces and how they dramatically differ from a toxic culture that could be sabotaging strategy. Zach highlights their work at The Intention Collective and also talks about some of the current workplace trends related to leadership, and how those trends can be positive or negative depending on the culture and leadership. Zach also touches on the importance of purpose and how he and his family give back in the community, as well as help entrepreneurs and organizations create social impact. He wraps up with some of the things learned from his wife and three children, and how his family works to find harmony and happiness among busy schedules, then the lightning round.
Visit www.IntentionCollective.co to learn more.
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In this episode of the ChangeMakers Podcast, hosted by Jeremy C. Park and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services, the spotlight is on Mike Berry, President of Hillwood, the developer of AllianceTexas. With over four decades of experience, Berry discusses his passion for Fort Worth, Texas, how he got his start in the industry, and the journey from the groundbreaking of Alliance Airport in 1988 to the creation of the 27,000-acre, master-planned community and global logistics hub, AllianceTexas.
Berry delves into his leadership style, emphasizing his customer-driven, entrepreneurial approach that has transformed AllianceTexas into a vertically-integrated economic powerhouse. Under his guidance, the region has burgeoned into one of the fastest-growing in the country, generating an economic impact of over $111 billion and nurturing a robust local economy and population. Listeners will get an insider's view of Berry's personal life and professional career, his strategic planning, new business development, and his knack for cultivating innovative companies and industries.
His ability to listen to customer needs has not only led to new opportunities but also to the creation of systems that foster mutual growth for both customers and AllianceTexas. The episode also highlights Berry's role in the Mobility Innovation Zone (MIZ), where he leverages the unique ecosystem of AllianceTexas to advance surface and air mobility innovations to commercialization. His work extends to Hillwood Urban, specializing in corporate office and mixed-use development, and his involvement in the development of Frisco Station, a high-density community in Frisco, Texas.
Berry's illustrious career has earned him numerous honors, including induction into the North Texas Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame and the Fort Worth Business Hall of Fame. His impact extends beyond real estate, as he is actively involved in various professional and non-profit organizations, including board positions at Texas Christian University and other civic groups.
Educationally, Berry is a graduate of Vanderbilt University, Texas Christian University, and has completed an advanced program at Harvard University Graduate School of Design. His personal life, community involvement, and professional achievements paint the picture of a dedicated leader and innovator, deeply committed to the growth and success of North Texas.
Visit www.hillwood.com or www.alliancetexas.com to learn more.
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In a reversal of roles, normal ChangeMakers podcast host and producer, Jeremy C. Park, is the guest on this special episode, which is hosted by Dr. Sarah Petschonek, Founder and CEO of Volunteer Odyssey.
Jeremy C. Park is the CEO of cityCURRENT, a shareholder in Higginbotham, author of two books, contributor to Forbes and The Business Journals, producer and host of television and radio shows and the ChangeMakers podcast, and a sought after speaker inspiring audiences around the nation to power the GOOD.
During the interview, Jeremy shares how his parent's open door policy and community engagement shaped his and his brother's perspective on volunteerism and the importance of service and caring for others. He talks about how he has built his career around volunteerism and giving back, and shares some of the history and blueprint for cityCURRENT, which is an organization that connects business with community to power the GOOD through events, positive-media, and philanthropy.
cityCURRENT is powered by and a partner with Higginbotham, which is based in Fort Worth, Texas and one of the nation's largest independent insurance brokers with locations coast-to-coast. Jeremy shares some of that story with his father's long relationship with the agency and how a full-circle moment happened when Lipscomb & Pitts Insurance partnered with Higginbotham in 2020.
Throughout the interview, Jeremy talks about his family, his wife, Meredith, and two boys, Cooper and Cayson. He highlights his team and perspective on life and business, valuable lessons learned, and how tennis and music played an important role in his past and tennis continues to today.
As an author of two books and the "Giving Back" columnist for a decade, he also shares advice for those who want to write a book. Overall, the interview is focused on how becoming a SPARK to power the GOOD can transform your life and community.
Visit www.cityCURRENT.com or www.jeremycpark.com to learn more, and follow Jeremy C. Park on social media at @cityCURRENT or @jeremycpark.
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Host Jeremy C. Park catches up with Dr. Sarah Petschonek, Founder and CEO of Volunteer Odyssey, who was one of the original ChangeMakers podcast interviews (episode 5) back in 2016.
During the interview, Sarah shares how Volunteer Odyssey has grown over the last seven years to work with more than 28,000 volunteers who have given over 460,000 hours of service just to the Memphis community. Volunteer Odyssey is a nonprofit organization that serves as a volunteer center based in and built for Memphis and a one-stop shop for meaningful volunteer opportunities.
Sarah discusses some of the current challenges nonprofits face with a critical shortage of volunteers and how Volunteer Odyssey is working with cityCURRENT to engage companies in meaningful ongoing volunteer opportunities through their new Corporate Compass model and program. She talks about why taking a new approach is necessary but how it can create a win-win-win for companies, employees and the community.
Sarah also talks about how Volunteer Odyssey is positioning itself for a sustainable future through a strategic partnership with cityCURRENT and Higginbotham, which will allow the nonprofit to create operational, promotional and relational efficiencies.
Sarah talks in-depth about her recent experiences volunteering in Poland to assist those impacted by the war in Ukraine, and how it is is reshaping her perspectives personally, professionally and spiritually.
She talks about some of the conflicts noticed around efficiency and dignity, and the delicate art of doing good without doing unintentional harm to those being served. She shares a number of tips and recommendations for creating meaningful experiences and also for ways individuals and businesses can be more intentional with their volunteer efforts and impact.
Learn more about Volunteer Odyssey by visiting www.volunteerodyssey.com or emailing Sarah at sarah@volunteerodyssey.com.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
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During the interview, Traci talks about growing up in Florida and some of the lessons she learned from her family and watching her father, who was en electrician. She discusses being the first in her family to go to college and how mentorship paved the way for many future opportunities, how the door was opened for her to join the team at what would become HGTV, some of the lessons learned and favorite experiences, and why she decided to quit her executive job to go on a soul-searching journey, which led her to create the Strategic Life Map process. Traci highlights her book and how she and her husband are now coaching C-suite executives and business leaders to help them break free from living on autopilot and live significantly successful.
Visit https://www.tracischubertbarrett.com to learn more about Traci Schubert Barrett and visit https://www.navigatethejourney.com to learn more about Navigate the Journey.
About Traci Schubert Barrett:
Traci Schubert Barrett is a sought-after international speaker, best-selling author of What If There’s More? Finding Significance Beyond Success, and the founder of Navigate the Journey, a leading business consulting and leadership development firm. As one of the founders of the wildly popular national cable television network HGTV, she enjoyed the amazing ride of taking a fledgling idea and turning it into a billion-dollar media empire. But after over twenty years in the media industry, Traci began to wonder, what if there’s more to our vocational lives than success? In a leap of faith, she quit her executive job and went on a soul-searching journey, leading her to create the Strategic Life Map process. With a Master's in Professional Psychology and over 30 years of business experience, Traci specializes in coaching C-suite executives and business leaders, helping them break free from living on autopilot and discover purpose and clarity for the future chapters of their lives.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services.
Be inspired by more positive media by following cityCURRENT here: www.cityCURRENT.com
Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Marcus Walker, Executive Director of Daily Bread Ministries, who shares his personal story of growing up in Texas and being called into ministry, serving overseas and meeting his wife from Switzerland, starting their family and moving back home to San Antonio to serve with the nonprofit organization that works with over 100 ministry partners who help distribute over $10 million dollars' worth of food annually.
During the interview, Marcus talks about having a Swiss wedding and how serving overseas helped reframe his appreciation for the acts of service that happen behind the scenes to create success in life, work, and marriage. He talks about his faith and family and how that creates a strong foundation for his work as Executive Director of Daily Bread Ministries, and then highlights the nonprofit organization's mission, model and efforts to equip their ministry partners to truly help the people they serve through food distribution and training. Daily Bread Ministries focuses on repairing broken relationships to address the Root Cause of Poverty. Marcus details some of their educational programs and some of their plans for the very near future, talks about their facilities and volunteer opportunities and how the community can support their efforts. He also shares a number of important lessons learned, including "the good things that are in us need to be drawn out." It's an interview that will inspire you and help guide you to power the GOOD in your community!
About Marcus Walker: Marcus Walker is the Executive Director of Daily Bread Ministries in San Antonio, Texas. Marcus’ journey into ministry began 25 years ago as a youth pastor in a local church, from there he felt called to become a missionary serving oversees in Europe and Africa. In 2011 God called Marcus and his family back home to San Antonio where he has faithfully served in a variety of roles at Daily Bread before taking over as the Executive Director in 2021. Marcus is happily married to his wife Doris and is the proud father of his 15-year-old son Noah.
In this episode of the ChangeMakers Podcast, Jeremy C. Park sits down with Matt Kripke, CEO of Kripke Enterprises, Inc., Mid South Aluminum.
From humble beginnings in Toledo, Ohio, to becoming a majority shareholder and recognized expert in aluminum and hedging, Matt shares his journey of hard work, passion, and resilience. Having held significant positions in influential organizations such as the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI), Young Presidents Organization (YPO), and currently the Toledo Jewish Community Foundation, Matt provides valuable insights into leadership and community involvement. Listen as Matt discusses the importance of people development in business, his approach to managing risk in volatile markets, and how he balances a successful career with a fulfilling personal life.
"Making the world a better place" is Matt's motto, a principle he ardently practices through substantial philanthropy and community service with his employees. Alongside his business achievements, he is deeply committed to serving the community, as evidenced by his support for organizations such as The Red Cross, United Way, Ronald McDonald House, Habitat For Humanity, Boys and Girls Club, Mom’s House, Josina Lott Community Services, Humane Society, Cherry Street Mission, Northwestern Ohio Food Bank, Hospice of Northwest Ohio, and Toledo Botanical Gardens.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of giving back, making a difference, and achieving purpose in life.
Learn more about Matt here: https://www.kripke.com/about-us/
Be inspired by other positive media produced by cityCURRENT here: www.cityCURRENT.com
Host Jeremy C. Park talks with ChangeMaker, Justin Levy, Executive Director of Conscious Alliance, who shares some of his powerful and inspirational story of managing through hardships, including Cerebral Palsy, enduring 14 surgeries, being in and out of wheelchairs, having to learn how to walk four times before graduating high school, and severe dyslexia, to seek out his purpose and become the Executive Director of a national nonprofit bringing healthy food into underserved communities and fusing music with opportunities to make a positive impact.
During the interview, Justin discusses some of his formative experiences in grade school and how a counselor and then a school trip changed the trajectory of his life, he talks about why and how he got involved in Conscious Alliance, how the nonprofit has grown to become a movement and the importance of their efforts and impact. He shares a number of ways individuals can awaken compassion to find their purpose and make a difference, as well, and highlights an easy way to join in the fight against hunger.
ENTER TO WIN: Join Conscious Alliance in the fight against hunger! Complete 3 actions to be entered for a chance to win 2 Tickets to any 2023 Live Nation show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre (contest ends 3/31/23): https://consciousalliance.org/pages/take-action
Learn more about Justin Levy and Conscious Alliance by visiting https://consciousalliance.org.
About Justin Levy: Justin Levy has served as Executive Director of Conscious Alliance since 2012. His focus on expanding the organization's distribution capabilities resulted in the acquisition of a national distribution center and headquarters in Broomfield, Colorado in 2020, as well as the launch of new and innovative programs to accelerate delivery and impact. Levy has made food quality a priority, improving the health and nutrition standards of donated foods. Levy’s focus lies heavily on serving the Native American and youth communities through seeking donations, as well as implementing gardening programs that align with community culture. On a personal note, Levy’s story of overcoming a life of unique challenges is content-worthy all on its own. With Cerebral Palsy and severe dyslexia, Levy works with his limitations to bring a fierce spirit to support others. Levy has had 14 surgeries, has been in and out of wheelchairs, and has endured thousands of hours of painful physical therapy – and he had to learn how to walk four different times before finishing high school. Due to the hardships he has endured throughout his life, Levy is unable to read or drive. As a highly functioning Executive Director, where he lacks in creating spreadsheets and emails, he makes up for tenfold through inspiration, facilitating a powerful organizational culture, and cultivating meaningful partnerships through strong relationships. Levy holds a degree in Service-Learning Program Development from Warren Wilson College.
NOTEWORTHY AWARDS:
2021 Industry Leader & Community Champ Award by Naturally Boulder
Top 25 Influential Young Professionals in Colorado
Biz GenXYZ Awards 40 Under 40 by BizWest
Arthur M. Bannerman Memorial Leadership Award by Warren Wilson College
Frederick G. Ohler Service Award by Warren Wilson College
Host Jeremy C. Park talks with ChangeMaker, Mark Melson, President and CEO of Gladney Center for Adoption, who shares some of his personal story in growing up in Euless, Texas, attending Texas A&M and the University of North Texas, moving to Louisiana and meeting his wife, and aligning his passions and purpose as both a "Gladney Dad" and leader of the nonprofit based in Fort Worth, Texas, that focuses on adoption and the belief that every child deserves a loving and caring family.
During the interview, Mark talks about the power and magic of adoption, how growing up with an adopted older brother helped pave the way for he and his wife to adopt their son out of foster care and add to their family, and how Gladney Center for Adoption continues to evolve in order to help children, parents and families thrive. He talks about some of the challenges and yet the blessings received, as well as how the community can support their efforts and support foster adopting families and youth in your local community to help make a difference.
Visit www.adoptionsbygladney.com to learn more.
This podcast is produced by cityCURRENT and powered by Higginbotham. To learn more about Higginbotham, visit www.higginbotham.com.
About Mark Melson: After joining the Gladney Center for Adoption in 2008 as the Chief Development Officer, Mark was later was appointed to Chief Operating Officer before being named President and CEO in 2018. Gladney allowed him to focus his efforts on bettering the lives of children in need not only in Texas, but around the world through both domestic and international adoption programs. Mark earned a BBA and MBA from the University of North Texas and later worked in various leadership capacities in Louisiana and North Texas not-for-profit organizations. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Children’s Home Society of America. Mark is an adoptive dad and resides in Texas with his wife and three children.
Host Jeremy C. Park talks with ChangeMakers, Tom and Ellen Harris, Co-Founders of The Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation, who share their story of meeting in college, living in Massachusetts and moving to Texas, starting their family, getting involved in the community and playing an important role in the development of Ft. Worth with Tom’s role as an executive with Hillwood, A Perot Company. Tom and Ellen talk about their family and about launching the foundation that is working to prevent suicide, eliminate stigma, and provide hope to people struggling with depression.
The Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation, which is based in Ft. Worth, Texas, was created to honor the life of their daughter, who was lost to suicide on March 27, 2012. Jordan was a young woman who touched countless people with her extraordinary love, compassion and kindness, and the foundation carries forward her passion of helping those in need by focusing on research and awareness related to depression and suicide.
During the interview, Tom and Ellen talk about Jordan and the foundation, their programs and impact. They highlight Hope Squad, a school-based peer support program that empowers students to take action to prevent suicide through a partnership with their local mental health agency. The program has grown to be active in 110 schools across the North Texas area with plans to expand it further in the future. They discuss QPR (Question, Persuade, and Refer) suicide prevention training and the importance of equipping everyone in our communities with the confidence and competence to help someone at risk for suicide. They offer tips and also ways people can support their efforts, like with their upcoming Light the Trail Ride, which takes place between October 1-15, 2022, and is designed to blaze a train of hope and spread awareness about the prevalence of mental health issues in our society. The bicycle ride will light the trail from the Canadian Border to the Gulf of Mexico, along the Mississippi River. It will feature teams of 4 riders, who will each ride an average of 48 miles per day, with featured stops along the way, including Memphis, Tennessee.
Visit www.jordanharrisfoundation.org to learn more about The Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation. Visit www.lightthetrailride.org to learn more about the 2022 Light the Trail Ride.
This episode is sponsored by Higginbotham.
Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Michael Graber, Managing Partner of Epic Pivot, who shares his story of growing up in Memphis, Tennessee with both mother and father being entrepreneurs and being surrounded by the musical influences of the city, and how those experiences helped shape his future. During the interview, Michael talks about his work and efforts with Epic Pivot, a transformation, insights, innovation, and strategy boutique on a mission to make business a force of good in the world. He talks about their process, why the transformation to being purpose-driven is so important, and how it can drive new levels of growth for both the organization and the community. The interview covers important trends, Conscious Capitalism, lessons learned, advice for entrepreneurs, and much more.
Visit www.epicpivot.com to learn more.
About Michael Graber: Michael Graber is the founder and managing partner of Epic Pivot, a transformation, insights, innovation, and strategy boutique in Memphis. Michael has years of experience advising more than 250 top companies and non-profits, including Cardinal Health, Arrow, FedEx, ServiceMaster, Mars PetCare, St. Jude, Jack Nicklaus, and others.
Pragmatic, edgy, globally inspiring, and yet infused with Southern charm, Michael’s style resonates with a wide range of audiences. A well-established author of multiple books and hundreds of published articles, when not working, you can find Michael playing music around his native Memphis, TN.
During the interview, Beverly talks about her time with Holiday Inn Worldwide and how it paved the way for her to grow into her role as a corporate executive, sharpening her skills for marketing, branding, communication, and leadership training and development. She talks about becoming an entrepreneur and small business owner with her husband, and then her stepping into the role of President of The National Civil Rights Museum, where she raised $43M during her tenure, which included the completion of an expansion of the Museum ($11M) and capital and endowment campaign ($32M). This capital campaign elevated the museum to world class status.
She then talks about stepping into the role as President and CEO of The Greater Memphis Chamber, at a pivotal point in the organization, and how she immediately focused on alignment around creating a positive environment for business and community growth, economic development, and workforce development and readiness.
She shares some of the important lessons learned from her experience with "From Protest to Progress" and advice for business leaders in embracing diversity and becoming more of a proactive force to power the GOOD. Beverly also talks about the importance of workforce readiness initiatives and supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, and then wraps up with a lightning round of personal favorite spots, inspiring quotes and more.
Visit www.memphischamber.com to learn more and connect with Beverly Robertson.
NOTE: Beverly Robertson recently announced she will be transitioning her role as President and CEO of the Greater Memphis Chamber to Ted Townsend in December, so she can return to the business she started with her husband years ago. We recorded the interview about a month ago, and it's a perfect opportunity now to celebrate her efforts, so we hope you enjoy it and learn more about how she has made a resounding difference in and for our community!
About Beverly Robertson: Named one of the USA TODAY’s “Women of the Century” in 2020, Beverly Robertson is the president and chief executive officer of the Greater Memphis Chamber since 2019. At head of the lead economic development organization for the region, she has championed shared prosperity, secured a historic number of jobs and investments, and raised funds to put the Chamber in its best financial position ever. Before joining the Chamber, Robertson served as president of the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis from 1997 to 2014. During her tenure, she led the museum in raising $43 million to fund a massive renovation that turned the museum and the attached Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, into an internationally known destination.
She also built the museum’s annual Freedom Awards into a nationally and internationally recognized ceremony, even personally persuading former president of South Africa Nelson Mandela to come to Memphis to receive the award.
A graduate of the University of Memphis, Robertson started her career in education before spending 19 years at Holiday Inn Worldwide, becoming acting vice president of marketing communications. A graduate of the Wharton School of Business’ Leadership and Management Certificate program at the University of Pennsylvania and has competed the prestigious Getty Museum Leadership Institute in Los Angeles, Robertson serves on several local and national boards. She and husband Howard also own and operate TrusT Marketing. Together, they have three adult children and are also grandparents.
About Dr. Elizabeth Brands: Elizabeth R. Brands, Ed.D., is a dedicated, strategic, and passionate leader. She brings a wealth of organizational leadership experience from occupying key roles in education institutions, nonprofits, and foundations across the region. Elizabeth’s early career experience as a classroom teacher informed her approach that successful community investment must coordinate systems that children and families intersect with to spark impact and demonstrate empathy and respect for others’ lived experiences. As a foundation program officer, she evaluated community organizations to inform allocation of resources and coordinated diverse groups of local, state, and regional stakeholders to develop systems-level change.
In her role as Executive Director of Reading Partners in Oklahoma, Elizabeth oversaw a high growth organization, driving towards common city-wide goals and leading the organization to triple in scale within four years. Under her leadership, she created and implemented a city-wide grade-level reading campaign in partnership with the local superintendent and Mayor, which included a Mayoral executive order allowing all city employees to volunteer on paid, city time. Elizabeth also taught a Measurements and Evaluation course in the School of Urban Education at the University of Tulsa. Before being named President & CEO of The Morris Foundation, Elizabeth was Head of Education Giving at The Morris Foundation. She also serves Read Fort Worth as its Executive Director. Elizabeth earned her Master of Education from the University of Notre Dame and her Doctorate in Education from the University of Oklahoma in Educational Administration Curriculum and Supervision.
As President & CEO of The Morris Foundation, Elizabeth brings a unique range of professional experiences that allows her to understand the perspectives of a diverse range of constituents including nonprofit agencies, education systems, and ultimately – the children, families, and adults whom The Morris Foundation’s mission strives to serve. About The Morris Foundation: The Morris Foundation, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, was founded in 1986 by Linda C. and Jack B. Morris. The Foundation serves Fort Worth, and Tarrant County, Texas and focuses its support in the areas of education, healthcare and social services. In 2021, the Foundation supported 102 organizations. For more information - www.themorrisfoundation-fw.com, or 817-363-2000.
During the interview, Kris describes how she left her hometown in Wisconsin and became an entrepreneur at an early age, how the military helped prepare her for success, how she shattered glass ceilings and led a global luxury hotel company, some of the leadership lessons learned while leading the global company Rock Springs Retreat Center was founded by Kris Intress, a mother, entrepreneur, Army Reservist, and former CEO of a global luxury hotel company. Kris started working in her teens. By 17, she was already an entrepreneur, running a restaurant, teaching French, and working several jobs.
After a few years she followed the family tradition of military service. She joined the Army with the goal of getting into healthcare through the Army’s pharmacy program. She later met her son’s father in Scotland and together they opened several restaurants and nightclubs. When she returned to the United States to raise her son, she went back to school to complete her college degree, which led to an interest in theater. After her first play, she was spotted by a casting director who invited her to Los Angeles to audition for a movie. Los Angeles agreed with her, and she worked on a variety of film, television, and theater projects both in front of and behind the camera. In between projects, she started working for and running a medical company, which ultimately inspired her to get an MBA. With her MBA in hand, she worked as the Director of Sales and Marketing for a large international healthcare company. She then pivoted to hospitality when she saw an opportunity to invest in and turnaround hospitality software company.
Growing the organization from representing 700 properties in the US to 7000 properties internationally. After selling the company, she was asked to be the CEO of WorldHotels, a global luxury hotel company. As a corporate executive that struggled to find time for her own health, she realized her career was taking over the need to prioritize her wellbeing. She watched her parents struggle with obesity their entire lives. After Kris lost her mother, she decided to help people take control of and transform their lives.
When creating Fit Farm at Rock Springs, Kris was inspired by her husband’s family, generations of farmers. Farm life provided natural opportunities to eat fresh foods and be active. She created a place where everyone could experience eating well, being active and experiencing the natural beauty of eliminating the noise around us. On top of her already impressive career, Kris is a certified personal trainer and a former athlete. She has an MBA from the Northwestern Kellogg School of Management.
Deb is an acclaimed communicator, connector, and strategist adept at uncovering potential in individuals and groups, strengthening their abilities to optimize their impact within their organization and the community.
Deb believes that disrupters talking across industries and interests to collectively impact social challenges will cause deep sustainable change. Her work experiences here and abroad have found her in the company of disrupters changing the world in areas including education, addiction recovery, social justice, human rights, healthcare, housing insecurity, and animal rights.
Deb has served on local, regional, and international Boards of Directors of social impact organizations and education institutions. These experiences impact her ability to develop leaders, create strategic plans, and strengthen an organization’s operational effectiveness.
Deb is the host of The Macfarlan Group’s podcast 3 a.m. What’s Keeping You Up at Night? As host, Deb interviews leaders in the social impact ecosystem around the country discussing best nonprofit management practices and social justice efforts with practitioners, leaders, and superstars working to disrupt the status quo to make the world better.
Deb holds an undergraduate degree from Vassar College and two advanced degrees from Vanderbilt University including a Doctorate in Education Policy from the nationally ranked Leadership, Policy & Organization Department program.
Before all of this (and children), Deb fronted a jazz trio touring the East Coast and Caribbean.
Listen as Jeremy and Deb talk about these experiences, lessons learned, advice for other Changemakers, and much more.
To learn more about Deb Macfarlan Enright and The Macfarlan Group, visit https://www.themacfarlangroup.com/.
During the interview, Dwania talks about her parents, the important role her mother and women played in the Civil Rights Movement, seeing a cross burning in their yard, and how she approaches healing and leading with love to take the lessons of her past to become a spark for building community and connectedness through her efforts today with The Memphis 13 Foundation.
Visit https://thememphis13.com to learn more about The Memphis 13 Foundation and http://dwaniakyles.com to learn more about Dwania Kyles.
About Dwania Kyles:
Dwania Kyles, Civil Rights Advocate, Wellness Consultant and Breath Coach, is an alum of The Memphis 13, subject of the highly touted documentary by the same name chronicling the desegregation of Memphis City Public Schools in 1961 by thirteen, 5 and 6-year-old girls and boys, (dubbed “the smallest pioneers” of the Civil Rights Movement), in answer to the 1954 landmark decision by the U. S. Supreme Court on Brown v. Board of Education.
Ms. Kyles is also the eldest daughter of pioneer civil-rights activists, the late Gwendolyn Kyles and Rev. Samuel “Billy” Kyles, subject of the ’09 Oscar & ’10 Emmy nominated documentary, The Witness: From the Balcony of Room 306, that gives voice to her father’s memories, who on April 4, 1968, was the only other person on the balcony, with Dr. Martin Luther King when he was fatally shot, as she, her mother and siblings were prepared to receive Dr. King and the SCLC staff at their home for dinner.
An innocent participant of these two historical, yet traumatic events as a 5 and 12-year-old, it stands to reason why Ms. Kyles’ commitment to helping others connect or reconnect with their inner healer has been a lifelong passion. That same commitment paved the way on her personal journey to health and healing over the past 40 years.
As a wellness coach and educator, she seeks to inform on why the power of the breath, the belief system, laughter, and self-love are the first line of defense when on the path of true healing.
As a result of her coaching, programs, workshops, and speaking engagements, participants of all ages who stay in action are empowered with practical tools which allows them to connect with their inner healer, reverse illnesses, stress less, and experience healthier, happier lives with more peace of mind.
Visit www.slingshotmemphis.org to learn more.
About Jared Barnett:
Jared joined Slingshot Memphis in October 2019. Prior to Slingshot, Jared worked at McKinsey & Company for six years. Several years of his career were based in Sub-Saharan Africa, including in South Africa with McKinsey, in Ghana as CEO of a manufacturing company and VP of a financial advisory firm, and in Kenya working in private equity. He brings experience with disruptive innovation, strategic planning, organization building, and operational efficiency to Slingshot. Jared holds a Masters in Business Administration with Honors from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting with a minor in Statistics from Brigham Young University.
During the interview, Heidi discusses her roots in Montana, moving to Texas and what inspired her to join The Cowtown Marathon. She talks about the business of hosting marathons, the mindset of event production and tips for success, starting a nonprofit to focus on helping youth and encouraging health and fitness, some of the secrets to their success and growth over the years, tips for fundraising and marketing, and much more.
About Heidi Swartz:
Heidi Swartz is Executive Director of The Cowtown Marathon in Fort Worth, Texas. With Heidi’s direction the event has nearly tripled in size since 2004, with over 25,000 participants and seven races taking place the last weekend in February. In 2006, she created The Cowtown Marathon's associated non-profit organization, C.A.L.F. (Children's Activities for Life and Fitness), which in the past 12 years has provided over 40,000 pairs of running shoes to disadvantaged children along with greatly reduced entry fees for The Cowtown Kids 5K Run.
By bringing fitness awareness and running enthusiasm to local schools, Swartz – a runner, herself – is invested in making the City of Fort Worth a healthier place to live. Swartz was awarded the Great Women of Texas award in 2016. She served on the original committee that formed "FitWorth," the Mayor of Fort Worth's healthy living initiative, and remained on the board serving as secretary. She serves on the Marketing Advisory Board for Visit Fort Worth, the Board of Directors for the Fort Worth Sports Commission and serves on the board for the National Trade Organization, Running USA. Heidi Swartz is also a successful and in-demand speaker and consultant for other race events, acting as an expert in race management and producing multiple events throughout the year.
About Jen Alessandra:
Jen Alessandra joined Frontdoor, Inc. in March 2019 as senior vice president and chief people officer. Alessandra brings significant depth and breadth of experience as an HR leader in both public and private companies, has an impressive track record for helping businesses and employees navigate change, and in implementing strategies that positively affect business performance. Alessandra most recently served as senior vice president and chief people officer for SolarWinds, a global IT management software company based in Austin, Texas. In this role, she led HR teams in 16 countries, was a key member of the mergers and acquisitions team and created strong internal capabilities in areas such as organizational development, performance management, talent acquisition and total rewards. Before this, Alessandra held multiple HR leadership roles at Raytheon as part of its Space and Airborne Systems business, and KB Home, a $9.4 billion home building company that operates in 15 states. Alessandra, who brings more than 20 years of experience to the role, is a graduate of the University of Southern California, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Listen to more positive media: www.cityCURRENT.news
Learn more about Frontdoor, Inc.: https://www.frontdoorhome.com/
Ed also talks about forming the Gillentine Group in 2008 to focus on legacy planning and philanthropic strategies to help families have a more significant impact on the world. He shares the story of writing his book, "Journey to Impact: A Practical Guide to Purpose-Driven Investing," and talks about some of the lessons and steps that have helped him align his values, expertise, and finances in a way that have maximized his unique impact on what really matters. He talks about hosting the podcast Journey to Impact, how listeners can embark on their own unique journeys to impact, and much more.
Visit https://www.edgillentine.com to learn more.
Chris and Elaine moved from St Louis, MO to Franklin, TN in 2004 to start a church. Little did they know that in the process of pastoring a church that One Generation Away would be birthed. In 2013 One Generation Away was established and in the first year distributed 400,000 pounds of food from the back of the Whitney’s car. It has now grown to serve over 4.4 million meals to those in need all over Middle Tennessee and in 4 states with disaster relief.
Chris and Elaine have a passion to see churches and organizations come together to serve our neighbors in need.
In November of 2018, Chris stepped down as the pastor of a local church to focus his time with OneGenAway full time. The ministry of OneGen Away has opened many opportunities for Chris and Elaine to serve in the community and beyond.
Chris and Elaine have been married for 34 years and have 3 daughters and 6 grandchildren who all live in Middle Tennessee.
Learn more: https://www.onegenaway.com/about/
Purchase his book: https://amzn.to/3bzPQ4N
Michael shares his story of traveling the world, how he was able to finance his adventure, some of his favorite moments, many lessons along the way, and what advice he would pass along to others who want to pursue a dream. He also talks about his next chapter with Mindful Media and how he is taking the experiences learned working with media companies to now help organizations gain valuable exposure for their efforts to make a difference.
Visit www.mindfulmediapr.com to learn more about Michael Graziano and Mindful Media.
Listen / Watch more positive media at www.cityCURRENT.com
During the interview, Rusty talks about growing up in Texas, graduating from the University of North Texas and getting into the insurance business. He discusses being named President and CEO of Higginbotham in 1989 at the age of 27, and implementing the firm’s defining “single source” service model whereby customers can obtain all their insurance and financial services under one roof, as well as Higginbotham’s employee ownership structure, which aligns employees’ interests in the success of the firm.
Rusty shares some lessons learned and helpful advice he's received during his career, the importance of community engagement and volunteerism, as well as some family highlights, and much more. Visit www.higginbotham.net to learn more.
From challenging stereotypes of girls in her Catholic school more than 40 years ago, to her first job after college convincing nonprofits to engage with youth volunteers, or her role as board chair of a global nonprofit transforming the way we do international development, Nancy has experienced the challenges of leading big change within established organizations.
During the interview, Nancy talks about these experiences, lessons learned, how to become a credible leader of change, the three types of resistance to change and how to overcome them, how to be a goal getter not just a goal setter, and much more.
Nancy has worked in philanthropy for Steve and Jean Case's family foundation, as a federal government program officer with the Corporation for National & Community Service, and as a global consultant for APCO Worldwide, where she designed and implemented sustainability, community engagement and philanthropic strategies for companies such as UPS and Johnson Controls, and nonprofit organizations including W.K. Kellogg Foundation and Annie E. Casey Foundation. Nancy mentors and advises executives from local governments, federal agencies, global nonprofits, foundations and Fortune 100 companies.
To learn more about GROWTHcurrent visit: https://www.growthcurrent.com
To learn more about cityCURRENT and to listen to past episodes of the ChangeMakers Podcast, visit https://www.cityCURRENT.news
Visit www.csrcommunications.com to learn more about Nancy and her work.
and visit https://www.csrcommunications.com/shift-30-day-survival-kit/ to learn more about the SHIFT: Change Leadership 30-Day Survival Kit.
Recently, Joel co-founded Kosan, a travel clothing company. The company launched one of the most successful Kickstarter apparel products of all time - reaching over $1M in sales in 30 days. He appeared on CBC's hit show Dragon's Den, was one of the inaugural BCBusiness 30 Under 30 entrepreneurs and is also an author and award-winning documentary filmmaker.
As a former world-class runner, Joel represented Canada at the World Youth Championships. He competed at the NCAA 1 level and has coached runners individually and operated intensive boot camps. Due to an Achilles injury, Joel is no longer a serious long-distance runner; however, he maintains a vigorous daily exercise regimen, which he shares on Instagram and his blog.
In his book, "Getting Naked," Joel shares the valuable lessons learned in his first startup - Naked. He discusses the good and the bad of entrepreneurship, as well as invaluable steps to start your first business.
During this interview, Joel talks about his childhood, starting Naked, some of the major lessons learned, his latest ventures, advice, the importance of family, and so much more.
Visit www.JoelPrimus.com to learn more and visit www.cityCURRENT.news to listen to previous episodes of the ChangeMakers podcast.
Joseph A. Michelli, Ph.D., C.S.P., is an internationally sought-after speaker, author, and organizational consultant who transfers his knowledge of exceptional business practices in ways that develop joyful and productive workplaces with a focus on customer experience. His insights encourage leaders and frontline workers to grow and invest passionately in all aspects of their lives.
Dr. Michelli is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Nielson BookScan, and New York Times #1 bestselling author. His latest book is Stronger Through Adversity: World-Class Leaders Share Pandemic-Tested Lessons on Thriving During the Toughest Challenges. Joseph’s other titles include The Airbnb Way: 5 Leadership Lessons for Igniting Growth through Loyalty, Community, and Belonging, Driven to Delight: Delivering World-Class Customer Experience the Mercedes-Benz Way,Leading The Starbucks Way: 5 Principles for Connecting with Your Customer, Your Products, and Your People, The Zappos Experience: 5 Principles to Inspire Engage and WOW, Prescription for Excellence: Leadership Lessons for Creating a World-Class Customer Experience from UCLA Health System, The Starbucks Experience: 5 Principles for Turning Ordinary into Extraordinary, The New Gold Standard: 5 Leadership Principles for Creating a Legendary Customer Experience Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, and When Fish Fly: Lessons for Creating a Vital and Energized Workplace which was co-authored with the owner of the "World-Famous" Pike Place Fish Market in Seattle.
Joseph holds the Certified Speaking Professional designation from the National Speakers Association (NSA). He is a member of the Authors Guild, an editorial board member for the Beryl Institute's Patient Experience Journal (PXJ), and is on the founders' council of CustomerExperienceOne. Other achievements include winning the Asian Brand Excellence Award and being named as one of the Top 10 thought leaders in Customer Service by Global Gurus. He received his master's and doctorate from the University of Southern California.
Having journeyed with a close family member through a six-year battle with breast cancer, Dr. Michelli is committed to social causes associated with curing cancer and abating world hunger.
Follow cityCURRENT: www.cityCURRENT.news
Follow Dr. Joseph Michelli online: https://www.josephmichelli.com/
Order Dr. Michelli's latest book, Stronger Through Adversity: World-Class Leaders Share Pandemic-Tested Lessons on Thriving During the Toughest Challenges:https://amzn.to/2IxQHaZ
Matine now serves as Executive Director of EEqual, a youth-led nonprofit, raising $100,000+ for students in need. Matine has been featured in People Magazine, ABC News, and has won the President’s Volunteer Service Award three times. EEqual’s mission is to level the playing field for students in poverty. The organization provides scholarships and micro-grants to homeless students to go to college.
EEqual has a team of over 50 passionate leaders, who have engaged thousands into its programs.
Visit www.EEqual.org to learn more and follow Matine on social media at @MatineKhalighi.
The ChangeMakers Podcast is hosted by Jeremy C. Park and produced by cityCURRENT powered by Lipscomb & Pitts Insurance.
His teaching career spans nearly 40 years and includes instruction in English, speech and drama, theater arts, and speech communications. Since his retirement in 2016, Dr. Sennett stays busy writing, speaking, serving on the boards of several non-profits, and offering encouragement and expertise to those in need.
HERB'S BACKGROUND AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
| Professional StandingAuthor and public speaker living in South Florida, USARetired college professor of theatrical and communication arts.Former screenwriting teacher and filmmakerRetired army reserves chaplain (rank of Lieutenant Colonel).Active member of Toastmasters International, The Military Officers Association of America, and The American Legion.Educational BackgroundDoctor of Philosophy, Louisiana State University (Major: Theater; Minor: Speech)Doctor of Ministry, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (Major: Christian Ministry)Master of Fine Arts, Florida Atlantic University, (Major: Acting and Directing)Master of Divinity, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (Major: Christian Ministry)Master of Arts, University of Memphis (Major: Speech and Oral Interpretation)Bachelor of Science in Education, Arkansas State University (Major: Speech Education)Previous ExperienceAdjunct Professor, Palm Beach State College, Lake Worth, FL (2003-2016)Adjunct Professor, Broward College, Ft. Lauderdale, FL (2004-2016)Screenwriting teacher, Miami and Palm Beach Film Schools (2004-2011)Chaplain, U.S. Army Reserves (1983-2004) retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.Associate Professor, Southeastern University, Lakeland, FL (2001-2003)Associate Prof. and Dept. Coordinator, Louisiana College, Pineville, LA (1996-2001)Assistant Prof. and Dept. Chair, Palm Beach Atlantic University, WPB, FL (1985-1996)Senior Pastor, Trinity Baptist Church, Searcy, Arkansas (1983-1985)Founding Pastor, Dublin Baptist Church, Dublin, Ohio (1979-1983)Instructor of Theater, Jefferson Community College, Louisville, Kentucky (1978-1979)English and Speech Teacher, Augusta High School, Augusta, Arkansas (1973-1977)Infantry Officer, U.S. Army Reserves (1968-1976) - Two years active duty (1968-1970) and decorated combat veteran of the Vietnam War. |
During the interview, Owens talks about her efforts, lessons learned and so much more. Learn more about Summer Owens by visiting www.SummerOwens.com.
During the interview, Yancy and Jason both talk about how they got into their respective careers, lessons learned, how they approach their creative process, and more.
To learn more about Yancy Villa-Calvo visit www.YancyArt.com. To learn more about Jason Jackson and brg3s visit www.brg3s.com.
Andre JacksonFounder & CEO
For more than a decade Andre has performed extensively in award-winning theatrical productions nationwide. He is a noted alumnus of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts (AADA). As an actor, Andre has been awarded the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award, NAACP Theatre Award, Los Angeles Ovation Award, and was nominated for the BroadwayWorld Best Lead Actor Award for his role as “Simba” in the Tony Award-winning Disney’s The Lion King, performing to date with the show’s Broadway Company.
Andre is the writer, producer and star of the short film STOP in addition to television and film appearances in the Amazon series BLACK, NBC's Law & Order: SVU, and Netflix's Luke Cage.
A former Marine who has traveled all over the world, Andre now splits his time between Los Angeles, New York, and Memphis, where he primarily resides with his wife (a writer), son, and their feisty little Cairn Terrier Leon.
C. J. KirklandCo-Founder & CFO
C.J. has been a freelance writer since 2009, with a focus on conveying stories that exemplify the human spirit. She has written for numerous companies and nonprofit organizations including Executive Speakers Bureau, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Memphis, and cityCURRENT. She has penned the blog River City Rising (cityCURRENT) for more than four years.
Upon receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Spelman College- where she attended on a full academic scholarship- C.J. completed the requirements for her Master of Arts in International Relations at UCLA after transferring from Morgan State University. Following a short internship at CNN (Los Angeles) and four years of working as a commercial and voice-over actress, she returned to her first love (surprising absolutely none of her teachers, professors, close friends and family!): writing.
While residing in Los Angeles C.J. began a creative writing group at a residential home for at-risk youth and, after moving to Memphis, volunteered at a nonprofit organization helping students build their writing and English skills in preparation for the GED exam. In 2011, C.J. was the graduation keynote speaker at BRIDGES in Memphis, Tennessee.
C.J. recently completed her first Contemporary Fiction novel, FOR TRUE. She's an avid Crossfitter and enjoys traveling the world.
Our friend Kellie Turnage, @kturnage121, is bravely sharing her story of #addiction, which almost cost her everything, including her life, so she can help others and walk them from the darkness she personally experienced then to the light she enjoys now with her beautiful family and career.
It’s critically important that we better understand addiction and that we have these conversations, especially with so many of our loved ones, friends, co-workers and neighbors suffering and turning to drugs, alcohol and other harmful things to cope with what is happening in our world today.
Sharing your story and struggles is hard, but the more you open up and the more we can encourage you to open up, the more we can heal and move forward together with a deeper level of understanding, empathy and love.
If you or someone you know are experiencing alcohol or drug addiction, learn more about resources to help you here: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
Now in it's 11th year, Aidan Cares is an independent 501c3 created by a board of supporters that believe in this crucial mission. All donations are used for impacting youth and adults along their paths to give and serve partnering to do so with charities doing awesome stuff.
Learn more: https://www.aidancares.org/
Through great adversity after a horrific road traffic accident in October 2017 left Dr. Ajay G Doni with a prosthetic leg, Dr. Ajay has used that life changing event as a platform to guide various amputees on how to overcome amputation trauma, provide tips on improving gait pattern, and educating others on various prosthetic options and components available as brand ambassador for Össur.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/AjayDoni07/
Carol Johnson-Dean, Ed.D., is currently the Interim President, LeMoyne-Owen College, Memphis, TN. Prior to that appointment, she served as the Executive Director of New Leaders, South Region, a national organization providing leadership development for aspiring principals and teacher leaders. She has provided oversight to New Leaders programs in Tennessee, North Carolina, Florida and Minnesota. She has also served as Executive Director, of Large District Support for the Tennessee Department of Education (2015).
Carol Johnson-Dean is a 2014 Harvard Advanced Leadership Fellow and a Visiting Professor at Vanderbilt/Peabody College. She currently serves on the National Board of City Year, Memphis Advisory Board for Facing History and Ourselves, a member, Memphis Teacher Residency Advisory Board and Education Co-Chair, for the Memphis Symphony Orchestra Board, and Member First 8 Advisory Board, and an Ambassador, National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP). She is also a member, University of Minnesota Alumni Association Board and Memphis Chapter, Fisk University Alumni Association.
Johnson-Dean served as Superintendent of Boston Public Schools (BP) 2007-2013, having been appointed by a unanimous vote of the Boston School Committee. As Superintendent of the 58,000-student district, she also served as a Cabinet Member for Mayor Thomas M. Menino. Under her leadership, the Boston Public School District improved proficiency rates, narrowed achievement gaps, focused on access and opportunity, as well as graduating students prepared for college and career success. During her tenure, graduation rates increased annually, the dropout rate decreased by over 40% to its lowest levels since 1977, and more students enrolled in Advanced Placement and the district more than doubled the number of 8th graders enrolled in Algebra I, demonstrating significant results on NAEP.
In 2012, Dr. Johnson-Dean received the nation’s highest honor for urban education leadership, the Richard R. Green Award, presented by the Council of the Great City Schools. In 2010, the Boston Public Schools was recognized as one of the most improved school districts in the world by McKinsey and Company. A strong advocate for Arts Education, Dr Johnson-Dean received the AASA/VHI Save the Music Award, increasing the percentage K-8 students receiving weekly arts instruction from 67% to 93% and doubling the number of art teachers in the district.
Dr. Johnson-Dean has a wealth of experience in Public Education as a teacher, principal and district administrator. Prior to her appointment in Boston, Dr. Johnson-Dean was Superintendent in Minneapolis, MN, Memphis, TN and St. Louis Park, MN. She was named Minnesota Superintendent of the Year and the Tennessee PTA Superintendent of the Year. Nationally, Dr. Johnson-Dean has served on the Board of Directors for the Council of the Great City Schools, the United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley Board, the Harvard University Urban Superintendent’s Advisory Board, the University of Michigan School of Education/Dean’s Advisory Board and she has served on both the College Board and the Spencer Foundation Board (Chicago). Dr. Johnson-Dean earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Fisk University in Nashville, TN and a Master’s Degree (Curriculum and Instruction) and Doctorate Degrees in Educational Policy and Administration from the University of Minnesota.
She has also been awarded honorary degrees from LeMoyne-Owen College and Rhodes College, both in Memphis, TN and Simmons College in Boston.
Dr. Johnson-Dean is married to Dr. Willie Dean, a retired YMCA Executive. Together, they share six adult children.
Photo by Jim Webber / Daily Memphian
Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Robin and Jason Hills, who share their personal story of turning disabilities into the powerful abilities of finding love, starting a family, having successful careers and encouraging others to break out of their mental and physical constraints to find fulfillment, embrace diversity, achieve greater levels of success, and make a difference in the community.
Nick has spent over 15 years living or spending time in over 30 countries around the world. He has led non-profit organizations, coached CEO’s, consulted with Fortune 500 companies, and spoken at award-winning events.
Nick loves hanging out with his family, collaborating with amazing humans, reading (70-ish books per year), smoke his pipe, drinking coffee, and traveling.
Follow cityCURRENT + Nick Laparra
@cityCURRENT | cityCURRENT.com
@NickLaparra | @LetsGiveADamn | www.nicklaparra.com
A story so powerful it was made into a movie, Liz Murray shares her fascinating, inspirational story of growing up with two drug addicted parents who she began supporting at age 10. Homeless at age 15, the death of her mother was the wake-up call that made her break free of her circumstances and pursue a different path for her life. While living on the streets of New York, she completed and graduated from high school in just two years. Overcoming horrible odds, she won a full scholarship and was accepted to Harvard University. Murray offers one of the most moving, elegant and uplifting tales you will ever hear.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/lizmurraybreakingnight/
As vice president of government affairs for Baptist Memorial Health Care, Keith Norman's primary responsibilities include establishing and maintaining relationships with government officials and strengthening Baptist's community outreach partnerships.
He also is pastor of First Baptist Church—Broad, sits on the Memphis Shelby Crime Commission board of directors, serves on Christian Brothers University’s board of trustees and is a former commissioner of the Tennessee Bureau of Ethics and Campaign Finance. Norman is the immediate past president of Memphis’ NAACP chapter and serves on NAACP’s national board of trustees. A graduate of Morehouse College, Norman earned a doctorate degree from Memphis Theological Seminary in 2016 and published his dissertation, which outlines strategies for urban community development in Memphis, Tennessee. Norman is now pursuing a certification in diversity and inclusion management from the American Hospital Association’s Institute for Diversity and Health Equity and is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Sandler Training has been named the number one management training program in Entrepreneur Magazine for five years, as well as the top rated sales and sales management training organization in the country by Inc. Magazine.
Learn more: https://www.csp.sandler.com/about/local-sandler-trainer
In this position, his region consistently earned the VIP Award for top production and management. He was honored as the Fort Worth Star Telegram’s 2001, 2006 and 2007 Front Page Award Winner by the Fort Worth Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. In 2007 he was honored with the National Association and Financial Advisor Career Service award.
Born in Fort Worth, Texas, John earned his BBA from Texas Wesleyan University, where he was recipient of the Wall Street Journal’s Achievement Award for excellence in the field of Business.
He entered the insurance business as an independent agent in 1972 and earned many company awards. In 1975 accepting a position as Regional Vice President with Time Insurance he moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was promoted to Director of Agencies in 1982 with primary responsibilities for the sales force of over 50,000 agents. In 1985 he returned to his home state of Texas and assumed his former position.
He served as the National Committeeman on the Board of the Fort Worth Association of Insurance & Financial Advisors for over 25 years. He also served as President of both the Fort Worth (2004-2005) and Wichita Falls Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (1989-90). He served on the board of both the Texas Association of Health Underwriters and Texoma Health Underwriters of Wichita Falls.
Mr. Park was a feature speaker at the 1990 National Convention of the National Association of Health Underwriters. He has served as an LUTC moderator since 1985 for Business Insurance, Disability Income, Professional Growth, The Dynamics of Group Insurance, Long Term Care and Medicare Supplements.
He was a registrant in The 1973 Edition of Outstanding Young Men in America and 1982 Edition of Who’s Who in Finance and Industry. Registrant in the 1990 Edition of Who’s Who in Southwest and 1992 Who’s Who of Emerging Leaders in America. 2005 Who’s Who in the Methodist Church and Who’s Who in Executives and Professionals.
John is active in Troop 75 and Venture Crew 75. He has served on the Executive board of The Longhorn Council of Boy Scouts of America for over 25 years. He was awarded The Silver Beaver Award (one of the highest awards given to an adult in Scouting) and the Order of the Arrows Founders Award. He is a Vigil member in the Order of the Arrow.
John and his wife Julie have two sons Jeremy (age 42) and Jeff (age 39). Julie and John live in Weatherford, Texas.,
Today, constant and never-ending innovation in the face of change is the key to creating sustainable success. Innovation, simply put, is the transformation or reinvention of something in a progressive, forward-moving direction. Therefore, our ability to reinvent—or pivot—is critical to lasting and meaningful change and success. Imagine the possibility to be better equipped to not just navigate, but utilize change to create new opportunities and achieve maximum performance in your business and life.
No one knows more about pivoting, reinvention/innovation, and lasting personal, professional and business growth than Adam. His latest best-selling book is entitled, PIVOT: The Art & Science of Reinventing Your Career and Life. Adam was most recently CEO of New Peaks, North America 's largest human potential company, and now leads More Love Media, a company dedicated to empowering individuals and businesses to re-imagine, refocus, and capitalize on change in order to thrive in a world where constant disruption is the "new normal”.
Since 2008, Adam has trained and led programs around the globe, including Australia, Asia, Europe, Canada, and the United States, in the areas of business and entrepreneurship, resilience, leadership, transformation, relationships, and speaker mastery.
When reflecting on the leadership qualities that landed her the presidency at STCC, Dr. Tracy D. Hall describes herself as results-oriented, a “people person,” and someone passionate about urban communities. “I want to get things done,” she emphasizes. “And making sure people have a voice at the table. They may not be able to physically be there, but they need a representative. When making decisions that impact people, you have to consider those people. If you haven’t walked in their shoes, how can you make those decisions?”
“There’s a spirit of collaboration I’ve felt in Memphis,” she says. “People are looking to get things done in an environment where people want things to happen. That’s critical. I’ve been places where there’s a need, but not that sense of urgency among other leaders. There may be a sense of denial. Memphis seems to get it. There are a lot of great things going on, but we can be better.”
Learn more about Southwest Tennessee Community College here: http://www.tn.edu/
As Vaco Nashville’s Managing Partner, Kyle Allen oversees their Music City team and its day-to-day operations. He puts his heart and soul into making sure every one of their corporate clients gets the attention and service they promise and then some. He believes – and exemplifies- the idea that you don’t gain clients when everything is going great; it’s when you rush in to handle a crisis that you’re truly of service. He also plays a hands-on role in placing rockstar consultants in Accounting and Corporate Finance projects.
Kyle is a self-described “recovering” Certified Public Accountant, having started his career with the Nashville office of Ernst & Young. In 2012, Vaco made the brilliant decision to recruit him, and it’s been a match made in heaven ever since. He took the reins as managing partner in 2017 following years of dedicated effort and measurable success for their clients.
A Murfreesboro, Tennessee native, Kyle earned both his B.S. in Accounting-cum laude and Masters of Accountancy from the University of Tennessee- Knoxville. He is actively involved with several community organizations, sitting on the board of directors for both Safe Haven Family Shelter and Association for Capital Growth (ACG). He volunteers his time at Fellowship Bible Church, is an active member of the Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants, coaches a variety of youth sports, and dreams of someday breaking par in golf. Kyle and his wife Courtney have put down roots in Brentwood, TN, and miraculously keep up with the sports scheduling matrix for their three children, Paxton, Caitlin, and Blake.
Learn more: https://www.vaco.com/recruiting-office-locations/nashville-tennessee-recruiting/nashville-recruiting-team/kyle-allen/
Unsure of his future, Anderson fell into a deep depression. During this time, he had no choice but to ask himself some difficult questions and do a tremendous amount of soul searching. Finally after many months of darkness, Marcus had an epiphany.
This caused a huge personal paradigm shift allowing him to see his injury as a wakeup call. This gift of adversity served as the catalyst Marcus needed to change his mindset and therefore, his life. The lessons learned from his endeavor revealed Marcus's purpose and drives him to spread his message today.
Learn more: https://www.marcusaureliusanderson.com/
Prior to becoming CEO, Shadyac served as the chairman and president of the ALSAC Board of Directors. Shadyac joined the Board in 2000, and in addition to leading the Board, he has served as the vice chair and has been active on a number of Board committees, including Finance, Marketing, Strategic Planning, Building and Special Events.
A practicing attorney for 27 years, Shadyac worked as a partner in the Washington D.C./Northern Virginia law firm, Feldesman Tucker Leifer Fidell, LLP. He had led the firm’s Virginia offices located in Falls Church.
Shadyac has been a member of the Arlington and Fairfax County Bar Associations, the District of Columbia Bar, the American Bar Association, the Virginia State Bar and the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association. He earned a B.A. in political science from Marquette University and a law degree from Loyola University in Chicago.
Learn more / Follow:
@StJude
@RickShadyac
www.stjude.org
@cityCURRENT
www.citycurrent.com
@jeremycpark
In 2012, Mary Latham was sitting at her desk in NYC reading the news on the Sandy Hook School shooting when a co-worker told her about an act of kindness that had happened to him. A random man had bought a $100 gift card at the Starbucks across the street and asked the barista to run it out on the line behind him.
Mary's co-worker was in that line. He had been having a horrible year and the expression on his face as he told her this made her realize how much of an impact this act of kindness had on him. Mary spoke to her mother about the story later that morning, and then had quickly switched over to the shooting. She had politely interrupted, saying...
"You have to focus on that other story you just told me. Think about that man who just made so many people's day by buying them a coffee. There is always going to be horrible and tragic things that happen but there will always be more good out there, you just have to look for it."
That conversation sparked a project. A friend and Mary would compile stories like these and highlight them on Facebook. They called it The GrAttitude Project. Eleven days after that launch Mary's mother would go to the hospital for surgery related to her cancer. She would be told that she had a few hours, maybe days, left to live. That would begin the worst week of Mary's life. A week spent in a hospital waiting room surrounded by hopelessness. She would pass away that Friday 3.1.13, at 12:21 a.m.
It was on that day that Mary would decide to create something in her honor. A type of book. Stories of hope. Inspiration. Something beautiful she could put in these hospital waiting rooms to help others who would wait after me. A book to show them that even though there was so much sadness, so much heartbreak, so much bad...there would always be more good.
We just had to look for it.
So on October 29, 2016, Mary packed up her mother's old blue Subaru, and took off on a 50 state road trip to compile stories of human kindness.
Currently, Mary has traveled to 43 states, 136 homes, and over 38,000 miles.
Follow Mary Latham and More Good here:
https://www.moregood.today/
More Good on Facebook
@moregoodtoday on Instagram
@MaryLath on Twitter
The book chronicles Morris’ life and his time in public service, his efforts to promote foreign trade nationally and to bring foreign businesses to Tennessee, his efforts to promote Memphis, and his personal relationship with Elvis Presley. The book also illustrates the foundation of Morris’ success – his devotion to his loving wife, family, and his deep religious roots.
“From the depths of poverty to the heights of state politics, I consider my experience a rich life without riches. I hope my account does not appear to be one of self-pride and ego, but rather a lesson in how to live a great life without the benefit of material wealth,” said Bill Morris in the introduction of his autobiography, “Bill Morris: A Legendary Life.”
As sheriff, Morris took accused Martin Luther King Jr. killer James Earl Ray into custody and is also credited with reforming a once undisciplined and corrupt sheriff’s department. As a four-term mayor, Morris was instrumental in promoting Memphis and Shelby County as America’s Distribution Center as well as the great work of Danny Thomas and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Morris worked to bring foreign trade to the United States and Tennessee with Governors Lamar Alexander and Ned McWherter. His work to promote trade globally earned him a seat on President Ronald Reagan’s International Economic Committee.
As a close friend to Elvis Presley, Morris was one of the few people with personal access to the international superstar and was even gifted a Mercedes 280 SEL from Presley. Morris spent much of his energy promoting Memphis arts and the famous Memphis musical institutions Beale Street and Graceland.
Elected as one the youngest sheriffs in Tennessee history, William N. (Bill) Morris, Jr. transformed the Shelby County Sheriff's Department into one of the most respected law enforcement agencies in the nation. The jail procedures instituted to protect James Earl Ray, after his arrest for the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1968, brought Morris and his staff national acclaim, including a personal recognition from FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover.
From 1978 to 1994, Morris served four terms as Shelby County Mayor. Traveling the globe, he promoted tourism with Memphis In May, Beale Street and Elvis' Graceland. He also sold the concept of Memphis as America's Distribution Center.
After an unsuccessful campaign for governor of Tennessee in 1994, Morris retired from politics. Three years later, his wife, Ann, suffered a major stroke, which began his greatest challenge. For the next 19 years he became devoted to his wife's day-to-day care until her death in 2016.
Learn more / purchase his book online here: https://www.billmorrisbook.com
Chef Logan Guleff has been named one of the Most Influential Teens by Time Magazine and a James Beard Blended Burger Winner. Since becoming the 2014 MasterChef Junior champion he has become a rising star in the culinary world. He was named Southern Living‘s Best New Southern Cook and earned a spot on Fortune Magazine’s 18 Under 18 list; he’s also the youngest certified judge for the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest in Memphis, Tennessee, and the youngest chef to cook at the historic James Beard House in New York City. And just recently finished judging the International Young Chef Olympiad in India.
Logan has gone on to do several Charity Dinners, Countless food Demos, an Initiative for Uncle Ben's Canada, and even flexed his muscles as the ONLY KID Certified BBQ Judge for Memphis in May World Champion BBQ contest.
Other accomplishments include winning the First Kids State Dinner for the State of TN. This took him the White House where he met the First Lady and President as well as touring the famous White House Garden, Age 10.
Logan Guleff recently won the prestigious Best in World Gourmand Award for his first cookbook.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/LoganJuniorChef/
Meg Clarke is an SEO expert and the owner + founder of Clapping Dog Media. After studying marketing and graphic design in college, Meg found herself working in boutique ad agencies where she developed her interest in attracting the ideal customer for her clientele.
Meg left this position when she traveled to Uganda to adopt her eldest sons but found upon her return that she missed the job. She turned then to freelance web design and before long, Clapping Dog Media was born.
At Clapping Dog Media, Meg focuses on creating functional websites using keyword analytics, site simplicity, and her own personal experience to help her clients run successful online businesses. In addition, Meg specializes in communication, ensuring her customers learn and understand the SEO strategies with which she provides them so that they leave Clapping Dog's services feeling empowered in their business. She especially enjoys working with clients in the health and wellness industry.
In addition to her enthusiasm for SEO, Meg believes in the significance of giving back. She has spent extensive time doing humanitarian work in Uganda and is passionate about helping people escape poverty. Meg currently lives in Virginia with her husband, three sons, and her dog, Vader.
Learn more: www.clappingdogmedia.com
Victor Boutros is the CEO and Founding Director of the Human Trafficking Institute and co-author with Gary Haugen of The Locust Effect: Why the End of Poverty Requires the End of Violence, a book published by Oxford University Press in 2014. Drawing on real-world cases and extensive scholarship, The Locust Effect paints a vivid portrait of the way fractured criminal justice systems in developing countries have spawned a hidden epidemic of modern-day slavery and everyday violence that is undermining vital investments in poverty alleviation, public health, and human rights. A critically acclaimed work of thought-leadership, The Locust Effect is a Washington Post bestseller that has been featured by the New York Times, The Economist, NPR, the Today Show, Forbes, TED, and the BBC, among others. For their work on The Locust Effect, Boutros and Haugen received the 2016 Grawemeyer Prize for Ideas Improving World Order, a literary prize awarded annually to the authors of one book based on originality, feasibility, and potential for global impact.
Boutros previously served as a federal prosecutor who investigated and tried international human trafficking cases of national significance around the country on behalf of the United States Department of Justice’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit. He has taught human trafficking at the FBI Academy in Quantico, trained law enforcement professionals in the United States and other countries on how to investigate and prosecute human trafficking, and taught trial advocacy to lawyers from Latin America, South and Southeast Asia, and Africa.
Prior to his work with the Justice Department, Boutros spent time on similar issues in the developing world. He has worked on improving prison conditions in Ecuador, documented bonded slaves in India, and worked on human trafficking issues as a visiting lawyer with the National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa.
Boutros is a graduate of Baylor University, Harvard University, Oxford University, and the University of Chicago Law School, where he was as an editor of the University of Chicago Law Review and received a grant to research human trafficking as a Human Rights Research Fellow. He has written on foreign affairs and human rights, including a feature article in Foreign Affairs and a piece co-authored with US Trafficking in Persons Ambassador John Richmond in the AntiTrafficking Review, and developed and taught a course on human rights, human trafficking, and rule of law in the developing world at the University of Chicago Law School.
Boutros speaks to corporate leaders, universities, and think tanks on human trafficking, and has provided briefings to senior government leaders on human trafficking, including legislators, congressional committees, and the President of the United States.
Learn more: https://www.traffickinginstitute.org
We are entering the greatest period of global transformation the world has ever known. These tectonic changes are enabled by rapidly evolving technology and destabilizing demographic changes. This constant state of disruption mandates a new level of professional courage and influence in order to effectively impact our organizations and those around us.
Seth Mattison challenges conventional leadership thinking while introducing the super trends shaping the Future of Work. Supported with cutting edge research and category leading case studies Seth discusses how listeners can compete and thrive in the changing landscape of work.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Deep insights into what’s coming next in the new world of work for leaders at all levels.
- A new framework to see beyond the fades and more clearly understand the trends certain to impact the business landscape over the coming
decade. * Practical and actionable tips and techniques that can immediately impact business today
Seth Mattison is an Internationally renowned expert and author on workforce trends, generational dynamics, and business strategy. As Co-Founder and Chief Movement Officer of Luminate Labs, Seth advises many of the world’s leading brand and organizations on the key shifts happening around talent management, change and innovation, leadership, and the future of work.
Learn more at https://www.sethmattison.com and by following him @sethmattison
David French is the President and Chief Marketing Officer of the newly formed nonprofit The Memphis Brand Initiative. The organization has been launched to lead Memphis brand stakeholders in well-coordinated, best-in-class brand, marketing and communications practices, which spark civic pride and attract talent, tourists and business investment to Memphis.
Prior to this role, Mr. French was Senior Vice President, Marketing, Communications and Corporate Partnerships at the National Park Foundation where he was responsible for overseeing the strategic brand development and key fundraising businesses. This included the Foundation's corporate partnerships and direct marketing programs, which generated millions of dollars in support, as well as leading the Foundation’s overall marketing and communications strategic planning and operations. In 2015, Mr. French also served as the Foundation’s Interim President & CEO, leading the National Park Foundation through a successful leadership transition.
Mr. French joined the Foundation in May of 2009, and was responsible for growing the National Park Foundation community into the millions, introducing new audiences to the work of the organization through strategic brand initiatives, multi-channel marketing campaigns, nationally televised events, new online platforms and social media campaigns. He created several formidable partnerships across media, corporate, government and non-profit institutions to strengthen America’s national parks through collaboration. Notably, Mr. French lead the “Find Your Park/Encuentra Tu Parque” public engagement campaign for the National Park Service Centennial, credited with driving park visitation to all-time records of more than 305 million in 2015 and 325 million in 2016.
Prior to joining the Foundation, Mr. French was Vice President of Communications for MTV: Music Television, where he directed the network’s day-to-day communications operations, spanning programming, events, public affairs, ad sales, partnerships, social media, digital, research and more. During his tenure Mr. French oversaw successful communications strategies for landmark programming such as “TRL,” “Punk’d” and “Pimp My Ride,” along with global media events including the “MTV Video Music Awards” and “MTV Movie Awards.” Mr. French also oversaw the launch of mtvU, MTV’s college network, and was responsible for communicating key pro-social initiatives including “Choose or Lose,” “Fight for Your Rights” and “Break the Addiction” among others.
French graduated cum laude from Villanova University. He is an instrument-rated private pilot and a drummer, having recorded two albums. He loves to travel with his wife Melanie, daughter Josephine, and their dog Jackie, especially to America’s national parks! His family now proudly calls Memphis home.
WeAreMemphis is powered by the Memphis Brand Initiative, a collection of organizations and individuals – people from every background and every aspect of our community excited to tell our story – together. Working as one, we utilize best-in-class marketing and communications strategies and tools to have a catalytic positive impact on our entire community.
In 2019, our community will experience a unique moment: celebrating the past through our 200th anniversary while embracing the next 100 years. More than an anniversary, we extend an invitation to people locally and globally to join us as we honor our story, and the powerful next chapter that is about to be written.
That story is profound, yet simple. Memphis has changed the world… and we’re not done yet. We are a city of doers, dreamers and believers. We create, we invent, we experiment. That’s what drives this unstoppable city.
Learn more at https://www.wearememphis.com or https://www.mem200.com
Steve Hinkley is the President and CEO of Adventure Science Center (ASC) in Nashville, Tennessee. Alongside board members, staff and community leaders and volunteers, ASC is implementing a multi-year transformation to become a premiere hands-on science and innovation center.
Prior to moving to Nashville, Hinkley served as the President and CEO of MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation in Santa Barbara, California, where he completed a $27 million dollar startup capital campaign and the grand opening of a new, 25,000-square foot science center in the heart of Santa Barbara’s waterfront district.
Hinkley began his museum career in 2007 with the Perot Museum of Nature in Science in Dallas, Texas, where he oversaw exhibit and education program development for the highly successful launch of an all new 185,000-square-foot science center in downtown Dallas.
Before joining the science museum field, Hinkley earned his degree in biology from Tufts University and spent 10 years in the classroom teaching middle and high school biology, physics and physiology.
Steve and his wife Morgan enjoy traveling, spending time with family and raising their two young children, Blake and Harper.
Grace Askew is an incessant songwriter. Each and every day of 2018 she has written a new song and performed it live for her fans on Facebook and Instagram. She maintains this practice while touring, collaborating on projects with Wrangler and Stetson in New Mexico, developing new sounds, and recording. Her mantra “creativity is a muscle; dare to suck” epitomizes her endeavor, as she explores the limits of her muse.
Grace was a contestant on Season 4 of NBC’s The Voice (team Blake). She has won numerous songwriting awards, including Unsigned Only (First Place, Americana, 2017), the International Songwriting Competition (First Place, Americana, 2016), and the John Lennon Songwriting Contest (2014 Grand Prize, Folk). PBS featured her on the show Sun Sessions.
Grace is currently preparing a tour to close out 2018 and end her 365-day songwriting challenge. She will begin in Memphis, Tennessee, and end in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Grace’s influences include Cat Power, Jeff Buckley, and Tom Waits. Grace has joined James McMurtry, Leon Russell, Marty Stuart, T-Model Ford, Jesse Winchester, Lisa Marie Presley, Ray Wiley Hubbard, Colter Wall, and Hayes Carll. She regularly tours the country, with particular emphasis on the Mississippi Delta and the Southwest.
Learn more: www.graceaskew.com
Carol Coletta is Senior Fellow, American Cities Practice, at The Kresge Foundation. In addition to leading the foundation's initiative, Reimagining the Civic Commons, she is on loan as president and CEO of the Memphis River Parks Partnership.
She previously served as vice president of Community and National Initiatives for the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, a national foundation with deep local roots in 26 cities across the U.S. At Knight she managed a portfolio of more than $50 million annually in grants and a team of 18 in 9 cities to drive success in cities. She was recruited to the foundation to lead a new portfolio created from a merger of two departments. Her strategic focus at Knight has been to understand how robust public life can accelerate talent, opportunity and engagement. To do that, she deployed grants, challenges, research, local leadership development, and national and local convenings of academics, policymakers and practitioners (with special emphasis on practitioners). In particular, she has led a national inquiry into the value of economic integration on America’s cities and how to achieve it.
Carol led the two-year start-up of ArtPlace, a unique public-private collaboration to accelerate creative placemaking in communities across the U.S. The collaboration includes 13 of the nation’s leading foundations, eight federal agencies, including the National Endowment for the Arts, and six of the nation’s largest banks.
Prior to being recruited to start ArtPlace, Carol was president and CEO of CEOs for Cities for seven years. The organization under her leadership was a Chicago-based national network of urban leaders in 45 of the nation’s top metro areas. She also led the Mayors' Institute on City Design, had her own public radio show, "Smart City," a popular retail store, "Magazine" and her own consulting firm.
Follow Carol on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ccoletta
Kurt Heinecke is probably best known as the Music Director for Big Idea Entertainment and their ground-breaking video series' “VeggieTales" and "3-2-1 Penguins”. For over 20 years, Kurt co-wrote, produced, arranged, and scored hits like “The Hairbrush Song” and “His Cheeseburger”, along with two major motion pictures, selling over 70 million audio and video units and garnering 7 Dove Awards. Kurt has also been a touring musician, music teacher, band director, church music director, and freelance composer and musician in Nashville. Oh…and he photographs in his free time (ha!) for clients such as The Nashville Symphony, Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith and other artists. Kurt regularly speaks to college students and business people, sharing what he has learned from 3 decades of working in entertainment.
Learn more: www.khstudios.biz
Cameron Brown speaks to audiences around the world on how to thrive in an ever changing world.
He delivers multi-sensory experiences on stage, blending education with storytelling videos and live music on a grand piano.
Our world is changing faster than ever. To deal with this, companies need a workforce that is fully engaged, high performing and adaptable to change.
But 67% of employees in North America are still not engaged or actively disengaged at work, with actively disengaged employees cost $450 billion to $550 billion per year alone.
Cameron helps solve this by helping companies develop high performance teams, increasing innovation, employee engagement, emotional intelligence and adaptability to change.
He has been featured in the media in 7 different countries, his online videos have reached well over 1 million people in 195 countries, and he just returned from delivering the closing talk ‘What Future Are We Creating?’ at Italy’s largest TEDx event.
For the talk, Cameron showed how the purposeful use of technology can speed up and magnify our creativity, innovation and impact.
He worked with more than 80 strangers from 40 countries around the world in the lead up to the event (all through digital technology), creating an animated split screen music video that played while he performed the song ‘There Is Still Time‘ live on a grand piano during his talk.
Here's a link to his #ThereisStillTime video: https://www.facebook.com/askcameronbrown/videos/1766571670075586/
Joann Massey is an experienced economic development and business consulting professional, leading equity and diversity efforts for the City of Memphis.
The mission of the City of Memphis Business Diversity & Compliance is to increase the number of M/W/SBEs certified with the City of Memphis and assist with strengthening the capacity of these companies so that they might better compete for opportunities in City of Memphis government contracting.
Follow Joann Massey & City of Memphis BDC:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannlewismassey/
https://twitter.com/Joann_Massey901
https://twitter.com/BDCMem
JK has landed coverage in Nashville Medical News, Paradigm Magazine, ALDA IoT for CLE, MGMA Mips and Macra, Tech Talks HIPAA, and is a frequent speaker at the Southeast Business Forum. She talks and trains frequently on Compliance, GDPR, Cybersecurity, Hostile Work Environment and more.
JK earned her J.D. degree from the Nashville School of Law in 1995, where she graduated with honors and was a member of the Law Honor Council. She has been a Tennessee Rule 31 Listed Mediator and received HIPAA certification training.
Following law school, JK practiced at Spicer Rudstrom and was named partner in 2001. She put her law practice on-hold in 2007 and took over her family business where she learned how handy it was to have a law degree. After selling the business she returned to Spicer in 2017 and wants to put the full measure of her experience to work for you, the small business person.
In addition to her passion for the law, JK is a trained ballroom dancer and has participated in several shows and competitions throughout the years. She is involved with her three children’s school and extracurricular activities and has participated with Feed America First, Davis House, Read2Me, and Second Harvest.
John Feather, PhD, is Chief Executive Officer of Grantmakers In Aging, the national society of grantmaking foundations and other organizations that work to improve the lives of older people. Prior to beginning that position on October 1, 2011, Dr. Feather was Executive Director and CEO of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists, the national membership organization of pharmacists who specialize in care of older persons. Until 2002, he was Director of the AARP Andrus Foundation, the research and education charity of AARP.
For the seventeen years prior to that appointment in 1995, Dr. Feather held several positions at the State University of New York at Buffalo, including Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine in the Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, and Executive Director of the Primary Care Resource Center. Prior to that he was Director of the Western New York Geriatric Education Center.
Dr. Feather is Past Chair of the Board of Directors of the American Society on Aging, Past Treasurer of the National Hispanic Council on Aging, and a former officer or Board member of 12 other national non-profit organizations. In March 2015, he received the ASA Award, the highest honor of the American Society on Aging for his work in policy, practice, and education.
Dr. Feather is an organizational sociologist by training and received his undergraduate education at the University of Texas at Austin and his masters and doctoral degrees at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. He has earned the designation of Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and Certified Association Executive (CAE).
Learn more: https://www.giaging.org/about/board-staff/
After founding Energy Lighting Services in 2010 in Nashville, CEO Jason Duncan and his team have completed four of the world's largest LED retrofits. The commercial lighting company has saved companies like Saint Thomas Hospitals, Gap stores and Adventure Science Center up to 33 percent on their electric bills, and up to a 75 percent reduction in their energy consumption.
Jason lives in Gallatin, Tennessee with his wife and two children. Jason enjoys playing guitar, boating, riding his Harley-Davidson, playing racquetball, backpacking, & camping with his family. He is a lifelong resident of Sumner County and an alumnus of White House High School (1993). Jason serves as a leader in his local faith community (www.eikonhouse.com), serves on the executive board for the Gallatin Area Chamber of Commerce, and serves on the board of the Sumner County Museum Association. He is a member of the Tennessee Hospital Association (THA) and the Tennessee Hospital Engineers Association (THEA). In 2014, Jason was awarded the Tennessee Small Business Development Center's Rising Star Award, was nominated in the Nashville Business Journal's Sumner County Impact Awards as well as the 2015 40 Under 40 Awards.
Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncanjason/
Josh McManus is a problem-solver working in post-industrial cities with entrepreneurs, corporations, and foundations to help people positively transform the places that they love. Josh’s experience spans 20 years as a serial social and business entrepreneur. An innovator in entrepreneurial ecosystems, creative economic development and combatting population loss, Josh is obsessed with place-based change. An autodidactic learner on subjects ranging from invention laboratories to neuroscience to game theory, Josh designs and implements projects that aim to disrupt how people in places think of themselves and their community and maximize the potential of all citizens who reside there.
Nationally, Josh is a Marshall Memorial Fellow and a Next American Vanguard. Locally, he has helped found multiple organizations and has served on a variety of institutional boards in his collection of adopted hometowns including Chattanooga, Tennessee; Detroit; and Bar Harbor, Maine. His thoughts have been featured by Forbes, Fast Company, The Economist, Entrepreneur, GOOD, USA Today, The Huffington Post and Garden and Gun.
Follow Josh: @JoshinDetroit
As Porter-Leath’s vice president of development, Rob Hughes has many responsibilities, ranging from planning the annual Rajun Cajun Crawfish Festival to driving Toy Truck donations and assisting in a capital campaign for the organization’s Early Childhood Academy.
A native Memphian, Hughes always knew he wanted to make an impact in children’s lives and envisioned a future career in law. After earning both his bachelor’s degree and MBA from Christian Brothers University, he realized a career in nonprofits was a fit.
Hughes joined Porter-Leath in 2009 as development coordinator. He was promoted to development manager in 2010, development director in 2014 and, most recently, to vice president of development. His most important responsibility is funding programs and services for the 12,000 local children and families Porter-Leath serves.
H2Growth Strategies LLC, founded by Linda C. Hartley and Vivien Hoexter, advises executive staff and board members to improve performance, build leadership, and increase revenues for sustainable growth and impact. Working with mission-driven clients, H2Growth leverages its expertise and talents to create a more enlightened world. Services include strategic and succession planning, board development, leadership and CSR training, executive coaching, fundraising and advocacy.
Their recent book, Big Impact: Insights & Stories from America's Non-Profit Leaders, is the topic of today's ChangeMakers podcast.
You can order the book online at www.http://h2growthstrategies.com/
Linda C. Hartley, Principal
Hartley combines an MBA in management (NYU-Stern) with over 35 years experience working with boards and staff to achieve their strategic and financial goals. Through board building and development initiatives, she has helped U.S. and international organizations raise over $800 million.
Vivien Hoexter, Principal
Hoexter combines an MBA in marketing (Wharton-UPENN) with over 20 years experience working with nonprofits and foundations to develop strategic plans, refine strategies, market more effectively, and increase both contributed and earned revenues. She also coaches executives currently in leadership roles and/or transitioning to new ones.
Michelle Gielan, national CBS News anchor turned positive psychology researcher, is the best-selling author of Broadcasting Happiness. Michelle is the Founder of the Institute for Applied Positive Research and holds a Master of Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania.
She is an Executive Producer of “The Happiness Advantage” Special on PBS and a featured professor in Oprah’s Happiness course. Her research and advice have received attention from The New York Times, Washington Post, FORBES, CNN, FOX, and Harvard Business Review.
Learn more: www.broadcastinghappiness.com
Carla Javits is President and CEO of REDF (The Roberts Enterprise Development Fund), a pioneering venture philanthropy galvanizing a national movement of social enterprises—purpose-driven, revenue-generating businesses that help people striving to overcome employment barriers get good jobs, keep those jobs, and build better lives. Through her stewardship, REDF has invested in more than 100 social enterprises in 21 states. These businesses have generated $327 million in revenue and employed 21,000 people—and counting. REDF’s goal is to see 50,000 people employed by 2020, contributing their skills and talents to our communities and helping to build a stronger, more inclusive society.
Inspired by the leadership of REDF’s founder, George R. Roberts, Carla focuses on achieving measurable results by leveraging the business community’s knowledge, networks, and resources, and the mission of the nonprofit sector to address some of our country’s most pressing challenges. In fighting to create a more inclusive society, Carla is carrying on the legacy of her father, New York Senator Jacob Javits.
In overseeing strategy, relationship building, and fundraising, Carla Javits works directly with the leadership team as well as the Board of Directors and Advisory Council which are instrumental to REDF’s success. In leading REDF’s national expansion, Carla has laid the foundation for REDF to dramatically increase the number of people whose lives are transformed by social enterprise.
Under Carla’s leadership, REDF was awarded two federal Social Innovation Fund grants by the Corporation for National and Community Service. Additionally the Los Angeles Business Times awarded REDF the Nonprofit Social Enterprise of the Year award in 2013. San Francisco Magazine recognized Carla in their list of innovative Bay Area Philanthropists. Carla is called on frequently to share her expertise at a variety of domestic and international conferences and speaking engagements, including the Social Enterprise World Forum in Milan, Italy, the Social Traders Master Conference in Melbourne, Australia, and most recently, as part of the American Enterprise Institute “Disruptor” Series in Washington, DC.
Before joining REDF, Carla was the national President and CEO of the Corporation for Supportive Housing, where she was responsible for providing grants, loans, and technical assistance to service-enriched housing initiatives that ended homelessness for tens of thousands. She was Program Analyst with the California Office of the Legislative Analyst and Director of Policy and Planning for the San Francisco Department of Social Services.
Carla holds a BA and Master’s in Public Policy from UC Berkeley. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Melville Charitable Trust and as an Advisor to the Center for the Advancement of Social Entrepreneurship at Duke University. Carla is President of the Marian B. and Jacob K. Javits Foundation; and a member of the Advisory Committee of The Philanthropic Initiative as well as the Insight Center for Community Economic Development’s National Advisory Board.
Away from work, Carla likes spending time with her partner, her grown children, and her dog. She enjoys music, movies, theater, cooking, and being outdoors.
Learn more about REDF here: http://redf.org/
There is more than one way for a child to come up missing, at least in the eyes of Ret. Memphis Police Sgt. Len Edwards. As executive director of Memphis-based Commission on Missing and Exploited Children (COMEC), he works not only with parents to find children who go missing physically, but also children who might be sitting with the family every evening but somehow are missing mentally or emotionally.
Learn more about COMEC here: http://www.comec.org/
Moira Forbes is the President and Publisher of ForbesWoman, a multi-media platform dedicated to successful women in business and leadership. She is also the Executive Vice President of Forbes Media where she is responsible for programming and branding Forbes events worldwide and driving new business initiatives across the company’s diverse media platforms.
She is currently the host of Success with Moira Forbes, a video series on the Forbes Video Network featuring candid, one-on-one interviews with today’s top women leaders.
Launched by Forbes Media in 2008, ForbesWoman includes a robust website, a global digital community and a variety of content-rich live forums and events. Across these diverse media, ForbesWoman examines the unique experiences of professionally successful women, affirms their ambitions and achievements, and sets the agenda for purposeful discourse on the topics that matter most to them.
Moira joined Forbes Media in 2001 in its London office, overseeing research and marketing for Forbes’ European edition, in addition to developing business opportunities on behalf of all the company divisions.
She came to the New York office and was named Associate Publisher of Forbes’ dedicated lifestyle magazine, ForbesLife, in February of 2004, and President and Publisher, ForbesWoman, in 2008. In 2010, Moira founded the Forbes Executive Women’s Board, an organization dedicated to harnessing the collective power of women in business to drive sustainable change. In 2013 and 2014, Moira hosted the Forbes Women’s Summit in New York City. This annual gathering brings together 250 of the world’s female leaders to discuss and solve the world’s most intractable issues. Moira was also named Forbes Media’s Executive Vice President in 2014.
Moira graduated cum laude with a BA in Art History from Princeton University, and is a graduate of the Harvard Business School program for Leadership Development.
Life for Nick & Giles English changed significantly one clear day in March 1995. Nick was practicing for an air display with their father Euan. But the 1942 WWII Harvard aircraft they were flying was involved in an accident. Giles, waiting to take off for the next sortie was told that his father had been killed. His brother had broken over 30 bones and probably wouldn't make it.
Six months later, however, Nick was back in the air and being flown by Giles. But things would never be the same again. Life was too short to waste. The two brothers decided to pursue what they enjoyed most: a life crafting beautifully engineered mechanical devices.
When they weren't flying old aircraft, Nick & Giles had spent most of their childhood making things in the workshop of their gifted father - an ex-RAF pilot with a PHD in Aeronautical Engineering. Models. Restored cars. They even helped him to build an aircraft they still fly to this day. Euan was also passionate about mechanical timepieces. He would often bring home an old clock from an auction for the brothers to try and get going again. The passion lives on in the classic curve of a Bremont timepiece.
In the late 1990s, Nick & Giles were flying across France in their 1930's biplane. The weather was closing in. A rough-running engine forced them to make an emergency landing. Keen to avoid the French authorities, the brothers were more than happy to accept the gracious help of the farmer whose field they had landed in. They stayed in his home, the aircraft took cover in the barn. It transpired their host had flown aircraft during the war, as well as being a gifted engineer. Half-restored wall clocks lay everywhere, together with numerous engine parts. The farmer still even wore his own father's wristwatch. The brothers promised that his warm hospitality would never be forgotten. His name? Antoine Bremont.
Learn more: https://www.bremont.com
In June 2014, Jason Little became only the fifth person since 1912 to serve as Baptist Memorial Health Care Corporation's president and CEO. Since joining Baptist in 2002, Little has held a number of leadership positions, including administrator and CEO of three Baptist Memorial hospitals, vice president and head of metro-Memphis operations and executive vice president and chief operating officer.
Little received his bachelor's degree in health administration from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and master's degrees in business administration and health care administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Little was an operations administrator for the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona, before joining Baptist.
A recipient of the Early Career Healthcare Executive Award from the American College of Healthcare Executives, Little serves on the boards of the Tennessee Hospital Association, Memphis Regional Chamber of Commerce, Memphis Tomorrow, the New Memphis Institute and the Industry Council for the Federal Reserve Branch at St. Louis.
Learn more about Baptist here: https://www.baptistonline.org
Dorothy Gunther Pugh is the CEO and Founding Artistic Director of Ballet Memphis, which she founded in 1986 with two dancers and a budget of $75,000. Today, the Company has 25 dancers, a budget of more than $4.4 million, and is opening a new multi-million dollar administrative and studio space in the heart of Memphis’ arts and theatre district in August of this year. Under Dorothy’s direction, Ballet Memphis has been lauded by the Ford Foundation, the Hearst Foundations, and the Mellon Foundation, among others. Dorothy has appeared on several national dance panels, including PBS NewsHour, the National Endowment for the Arts Dance Panel and the Glass Slipper Ceiling Symposium. A member of the Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, she has received the Women of Achievement Award for Initiative and the Gordon Holl Outstanding Arts Administrator’s Award, and is a recipient of a fellowship from the Center for Social Innovation at Stanford University Graduate School of Business. She is a fellow in the National Arts Strategies’ Chief Executive Program™ and was named a 2012 Legends Award winner from the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis. In 2013, she received the Briggs’ Foundation Community Service Award. She has chaired the Artistic Directors’ Council for Dance/USA, the nation’s largest dance service organization for professional dance companies, and also serves on its panel for diversity and inclusion. Dorothy is a native Memphian who began her ballet training with Edith Royal of Orlando, Florida and later studied with Louise Rooke and Memphis Ballet. After graduating cum laude from Vanderbilt University, she studied with Raymond Clay and Donna Carver, and performed with Dance Concert Theatre. She completed teacher-training courses at the Royal Academy of Dance in London and with New York ballet master David Howard. Dorothy appeared in many roles with Ballet Memphis before leaving the stage.
Learn more about Ballet Memphis here: http://www.balletmemphis.org/
Ephie Ballard-Johnson was born in Memphis, TN. After graduating from Treadwell High School, she attended the University of Memphis where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a concentration in technical writing. She then worked as an educator in the Memphis City School System for a number of years before serving as the Administrative Director of Neighborhood Christian Centers, Inc., a nonprofit Christian organization that employs over 60 staff members and provides many programs and assistance for 50,000 neighbors in need annually.
After ten years as Administrative Director, she seceded her mother and NCC founding director, JoeAnn Ballard, as President/CEO of theNeighborhood Christian Centers (NCC) in 2008. Since that time, Mrs. Johnson has spearheaded the creation of the Early Childhood Brain Development program- Operation Smart Child- in partnership with The Urban Childhood Institute, organized the First Ladies for Healthy Babies Network with the support of Tennessee First Lady Crissy Haslam. Along with a committed staff, Ephie has a heart for the Memphis community, she is committed to the plight of the elimination of poverty through her service at NCC.
Mrs. Johnson is the host of FOX 13 WHBQ’s “Faith Forum” and also serves on the Advisory Council at Memphis Light Gas & Water, is a Board Member of On the Grove Music, and is a CAB Board Member of the Department of Human Services.
In addition to her work with NCC, Ephie works as a professional vocalist and songwriter, as well as a noted inspirational speaker. Her love for the Lord has inspired Ephie to write beautiful Christian Music, including her single The King is Here. She has been a keynote speaker for various faith-based, community service, and women’s focused conferences throughout the country and around the world, most recently traveling to Japan, Guyana, Kenya, and Argentina.
Ephie is married to Rodney, her husband of 20 years, and has two beautiful children, Andre and Jonathan. They attend Hope Presbyterian Church She and Rodney have been members of Hope Presbyterian Church’s worship team for 16 years, under the leadership of Grammy and Dove award winner Bruce Carroll.
Learn more: http://ephiejohnsonlive.com
Dr. Justin Lawhead is the Dean of Students at The University of Memphis. A Pittsburgh native, Dr. Lawhead's twenty year higher education experience is across five institutions across the nation and is on a mission to create an integrity based class of young professionals who support innovate change in Memphis or their community of choice. Dr. Lawhead is also Director and visionary behind the expansion of the Leadership Education and Development Program (LEAD) program at University of Memphis that includes the creation of a four level cohort training series, professional mentoring initiatives, local leader lunch series, and hosting a campus version of LeaderShape. The LEAD Program engagement grew from 150 students to 1,000 students under Justin's leadership.
You can learn more about Dr. Lawhead by following him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/justinlawhead
Sally Jones Heinz came to MIFA in 2007 as Vice President of Development. In February of 2011, she became executive director, only the sixth person to hold that position in MIFA’s 43-year history. In 2016, her title was changed to President & CEO.
Sally’s roots are in Memphis—she grew up in Midtown, went to Evergreen Presbyterian Church, attended Snowden School, Central High, and Rhodes College (’81), and settled down with her husband Brad a few blocks from her childhood home. And service is in her genes. Her father, Jameson Jones, was dean of Rhodes College and president of Memphis College of Art; and her uncle, Dr. Paul Tudor Jones, was pastor of Idlewild Presbyterian Church and a founder of MIFA. She received an M.A. in American Studies from The University of Texas in Austin before returning to Memphis in 1983. Before coming to MIFA, Sally worked with Memphis Heritage, Robert F. Sharpe and Co., Rhodes College, and Memphis Brooks Museum of Art.
Learn more about Sally here: https://www.mifa.org/
Mauricio Calvo serves as the Executive Director of Latino Memphis but his story begins in the bustling Mexico City, Mexico where he grew up among the 25 million residents who also call Mexico City home.
Mauricio came to America as an exchange student and destiny led him to Memphis at Christian Brothers University where he also met his wife and now has four children.
Mauricio is working to provide more resources and opportunities for Latino families across the Mid-South.
Learn more about Latino Memphis and his story here: https://www.latinomemphis.org/hola
Dr. Isaac Rodriguez is the SweetBio CEO and Chief Science Officer responsible for the overall vision of the company as well as the lab and clinical research, publication, regulatory and product development segments of the business.
Kayla Rodriguez Graff earned her MBA in 2014 from Hult International in San Francisco, CA and New York City, NY. Her forward thinking business mindset is unique and her overall knowledge of business development, marketing, operations, organizational effectiveness, and front-end web development in Fortune 40 experience made her a fit for the COO role. She responsible for operational efficiency, manufacturing, Quality and logistics.
They are both siblings and Co-Founders of SweetBio: www.sweetbio.com
Ned Canty is the General Director at Opera Memphis and has over 20 years of experience as an opera stage director. As a freelance artist for 20 years, Canty directed operas at dozens of companies in the US, Italy, Israel, China and Canada. The New York Times described his work as having "a startling combination of sensitivity and panache.” Follow him on Twitter here→ @poilaparola
There are few people who can match the drive and enthusiasm for social and community organizing that Cynthia Daniels has. A native of Atlanta, GA, Cynthia moved to Memphis in 2009 and embraced everything the city had to offer. As a community advocate in 2013, she created Memphis Black Restaurant Week to bring awareness around 8 minority owned eateries in the city. The week grossed $85,000 in sales and from that Cynthia decided it was time to launch her Event Planning & Consulting business, Cynthia Daniels & Co. Under her company name, Top 40 Under 40 Urban Elite Professionals Awards Gala took place in November 2016 to celebrate young talent in Memphis.
Dr. John Smarrelli Jr. is the 22nd President of Christian Brothers University and its first permanent lay president. Over the past 25 years, he has served in senior administrative positions at Loyola University in Chicago, IL and Le Moyne College in Syracuse, NY.
A biochemist by training, Dr. Smarrelli has retained his faculty status in his discipline while holding administrative positions. He earned his doctorate and master's degrees from the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, and has conducted postdoctoral work in biology at the University of Virginia. Over the years in his role as professor of biology, Dr. Smarrelli has received numerous awards for teaching, has published articles in scientific journals, obtained funding for his research on gene structure from the National Science Foundation, and authored textbooks as well as multiple College Board publications regarding the Advanced Placement Program.
Since arriving in Memphis in 2009, Dr. Smarrelli has begun programs in Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies at CBU. Dr. Smarrelli is an active member of the Memphis community focusing on economic development and social services including involvement with Memphis schools, member of the Transition Planning Commission, TLE Advisory Board, economic development groups, and serving on the boards of St. Mary’s University of MN, the East Memphis Rotary, Catholic Charities, the Gulf South Conference, the Salvation Army, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Tennessee Independent Colleges and Universities Association. Dr. Smarrelli is a member of numerous local, regional and national university associations. John and his wife, Eloise, have three adult children and four grandchildren. The Smarrellis attend Holy Spirit Catholic Church.
Johnny Pitts was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. He attained the rank of Eagle Scout in 1973, graduated high school from Memphis University School in 1976 and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1980 with an insurance major from the University of Tennessee, where he also ran track and cross-country. Johnny was employed with Safeco Insurance Company and CIGNA Insurance Company before moving to Lipscomb & Pitts in 1981. He worked as a commercial insurance producer as he focused on the production of new business sales and the retention of existing insurance clients. Early in his career, Johnny earned his Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation. Currently, Johnny is Co-CEO of Lipscomb & PItts Insurance, LLC and founder of cityCURRENT.
A community philanthropist and founder of cityCURRENT, formerly known as Lipscomb & Pitts Breakfast Club, Johnny Pitts has a heart for service which is exemplified not only at work but his service on various boards including: Chair of Innovate Memphis, Youth Villages, Boy Scouts, PeopleFirst Partnership, Council of the Insurance Agents & Brokers, Insurors of Tennessee Large Agency Committee, Mayor Wharton’s Strategic Planning Committee and Mayor Wharton’s Finance Committee. He has also served as chairman of Youth Villages, scoutmaster of Troop 55, chairman of the Greenwich Group, chairman of the Insurors of Memphis, chairman of the Memphis/Shelby County Insurance Advisory Committee, chairman of the Greater Memphis Insurance Council, board member of the Business Emergency Preparedness Council, board member of the Brooks Museum, board member of Assurex Global, and as the Memphis co-chair for Governor Haslam’s Inauguration.
Over 30 years ago, on a hot summer afternoon in Lagos, Nigeria, a missionary from Wisconsin approached a young African boy and invited him to enter a contest where the prize was a pair of shoes. For this young boy, like so many others in Africa, the chance to own just one pair of shoes was beyond his wildest dreams that day. That boy’s name was Emmanuel Ohonme.
Emmanuel “Manny” Ohonme won the contest on that hot summer day and earned his first ever pair of shoes. But, even more important than the pair of shoes, were the words of hope shared by this “Good Samaritan”. The missionary gave not only the gift of shoes to the young boy, but the gift of encouragement about believing in your dreams, reaching for the sky, and never giving up.
That gift of hope propelled the young boy to work hard at developing his talents, skills, and confidence. As a young man, he turned those lessons into success, earning a full basketball scholarship to a college in America.Earning his Bachelors and Masters, Manny was climbing the ladder of success in the technology industry when on a trip home to Nigeria, his passion and compassion collided and became a vision of Samaritan’s Feet.
Determined to make a difference, both in his homeland and around the world, Manny and his wife, Tracie began Samaritan’s Feet in 2003. Through Samaritan’s Feet, Manny has the opportunity to continue the legacy of love and hope he received when he was given his first pair of shoes and make a difference in the lives of millions.
Learn more→ https://www.samaritansfeet.org/
Reggie graduated from Hughes High School (1993), and then received his B.S. degree in Finance in 1997 from Arkansas State University. After graduation, Reggie took a position with First Tennessee Bank as Senior Client Representative from 1998 until 2004. Since that time, Reggie has been greatly involved in outreach ministry, which is how he first learned about STREETS. Prior to coming on staff with STREETS, Reggie worked for Young Life for six years where he most recently served as an Area Director. In 2010, Reggie joined the STREETS staff because it gave him the opportunity to achieve his mission: to honor God, expand His Kingdom, and enhance this city.
In his free time, Reggie likes to spend time with his family, play tennis, and keep up with the Dallas Cowboys. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc., was a recipient of the Dean Deyo award as a New Memphis Institute Fellow, and has a Certificate in Financial Planning from Christian Brothers University.
Reggie and his wife Kim have three beautiful girls: Sydney, Kendall, and Ella and are members of Fellowship Memphis Church.
Jenny Koltnow is the Director of Communications and Community Relations and Customer Satisfaction for AutoZone, headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. She manages everything from internal stakeholder engagement, to government relations, to corporate social responsibility. An avid runner and midwest girl, her passion for doing good and making a difference is why we're happy to interview her on this episode of ChangeMakers. Follow Jenny here→ @jennykoltnow
William B. Courtney (Bill), a native Memphian, founded Classic American Hardwoods, Inc. in 2001. Today, it employs 120 people with a 45 acre manufacturing facility and domestic sales offices in Memphis, TN and international sales offices in Shanghai, China and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. In 2007, Classic American Hardwoods, Inc. won the Memphis Business Journal’s Small Business of the Year Award based on its growth and commitment to community service.
In 2003, Bill began volunteering at Memphis’ inner city Manassas High School in an effort to turn its underperforming football team around. In 2003, the team had 19 players with a dismal 4-95, 10-year record. In the 2008 & 2009 seasons, the team’s record improved to 18-2, with 75 players. The story inspired a Hollywood film—Undefeated—which won the 2012 Academy Award for Best Feature Length Documentary.
In 2011, Bill was inducted into Bridge Builders for leadership in diversity, community, and justice. He was the 2012 recipient of the Liberty Bowl’s Harry Zinn Spirit of 1776 award for distinguished citizenship, recipient of the Carnival Memphis’ King’s award for outstanding achievement in Business and Industry, and the National Football Foundation and College Hall of fame Memphis chapter’s award winner for The distinguished American for Contribution to Amateur Athletics. In 2013, he was inducted into the prestigious Society of Entrepreneurs as a result of his success in business and community service.
Today, Bill still operates as the President and CEO of Classic American Hardwoods. He speaks at a variety of events from the Para Olympics in Colorado Springs, with Nike, PepsiCo, FedEx, and other nationally recognized companies, to churches, schools, and hospitals. His first book, Against the Grain, was published by Weinstein Books in May 2014, and can be purchased here→ http://www.coachbillcourtney.com/
Dr. Sarah Petschonek is founder and CEO of Volunteer Odyssey. She founded Volunteer Odyssey based on two landmark projects. In 2012, Sarah began Mission Memphis: 30 consecutive days volunteering with 30 non-profits, chronicled on her blog, Confessions of a Volunteer. Afterwards, she launched Volunteer Bound – a cross-country volunteer tour researching volunteerism in 9 US cities spanning from Portland, Oregon to Jacksonville, Florida. Volunteer Odyssey has grown to include 40+ non-profit partners, the most comprehensive Calendar of Volunteer Opportunities in Memphis and the country’s first virtual volunteer fair called Volio.
Dr. Petschonek earned her PhD in Industrial Organizational Psychology, an MS and an MBA from the University of Memphis. Her academic research and work experienced focused on employee satisfaction, employee well-being, organizational culture. In the past she has worked for the US Navy and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Dr. Petschonek also consults with local non-profits on how to improve their volunteer experience and teaches as an Adjunct Professor of Business in the MBA program at Christian Brothers University.
Memphis Flyer named Sarah as one of the 20 Under 30 and in 2014 Sarah was honored as one of the 50 Under 40 Social Entrepreneurs in the US by American Express.
Believing in the importance of the “two Cs” – culture and communication – Stacy has developed a strong internal culture at ServiceMaster by Stratos through open communication channels based on core values like integrity, accountability and respect. She strives to achieve a firm balance between being a headstrong CEO and a true friend to her employees, and she continues to lead Stratos to new heights, through continued growth and the introduction of technological advancements throughout the organization, while servicing venues in Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi.
Since 2008, Stacy has served on the ServiceMaster Clean Regional Council, as well as a Southeastern Conference Council Representative on the ServiceMaster Clean National Franchise Council, eventually serving as vice chairman and chairman. After taking majority ownership in the company, Stacy applied for and received the Women’s Business Enterprise Certification from the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council.
A Lipscomb Pitts Breakfast Club member, Stacy plays an active role in the Memphis business community. As a result, she has received many honors over the years, including 2013 Memphis Business Journal’s Super Woman in Business and, most recently, 2015 Memphis Business Journal’s Small Business of the Year. She participates as an activate mentor to young business women in the Memphis Business Journal’s Bizwomen Mentoring Monday series through several events annually.
Stacy sits on the board of directors for the Chickasaw Council of Boy Scouts of America and serves as a commissioner for Memphis City Beautiful. Furthermore, she and her Stratos team give back together by providing in-kind janitorial services to many of Memphis’ nonprofit organizations and events, such as Memphis Charitable Foundation’s Blues Ball and Jingle Bell Ball; MIFA’s annual Feed the Soul event; and Downtown Memphis’ RiverArtsFest.
Daphne Large is President and CEO of the Memphis based Data Facts, which provides trusted information to make sound hiring, lending and other business decisions.
In 1989, at age 27, she founded Data Facts. A native Memphian and Briarcrest grad, Daphne's driven mindset has awarded her CEO of the Year, a member of the Society of Entrepreneurs, and countless other Top Workplaces awards for her company. Daphne is passionate about serving her community and others and as you'll hear in this podcast, that is why we are so excited to share this episode with you.
Learn more about Daphne Large here: http://info.datafacts.com/daphne-large
Reverend Marlon Foster is the founder and executive director of Knowledge Quest, a Memphis nonprofit that equips youth to maximize their potential through intellectual and character development.
Responding to youth gun violence that caused the death of his childhood best friend, Pierre Ramond Henderson, Marlon struggled for three years after obtaining his undergraduate degree in a relentless effort to make his vision a reality, establishing the organization in 1998.
As a native South Memphian, Marlon reflects on his roots, what shaped his faith, and working, living, and investing in his community.
Michael Drake is the founder, chairman and CEO of masterIT. As a native Memphian, Michael reflects on his roots, what he learned as a young professional, and his mission of inspiring young professionals, providing opportunity to those who need it most, and shining a light on mental health.