Keleigh Veraldo-Zucchero, Leadership Portage County Class of 2023, is our guest for episode six of The Best Leadership Podcast Ever! Keleigh is a longtime Kent resident, community volunteer, and real estate advisor who spent more than two decades in elementary education before transitioning into real estate during the COVID-19 pandemic. In her conversation with Andra, Keleigh shares her personal journey of putting down roots in Kent after attending Kent State University, meeting her husband Sean, and raising their daughter in the same community that has come to feel like home. She reflects on the importance of place, family, libraries, walkable neighborhoods, and the deep sense of belonging that has shaped her life in Portage County.

Keleigh describes her career shift from education to real estate as a natural extension of her passion for service, social-emotional development, and helping people navigate life transitions. Rather than viewing herself as a salesperson, Keleigh frames her work as that of a real estate advisor and coach—someone who listens deeply, builds trust, and supports clients during emotionally complex moments. She and Andra explore themes of servant leadership, authenticity, relationship-building, and the importance of leading with humility and empathy, especially during times of uncertainty and change.

In addition to her professional work, Keleigh discusses her extensive community involvement, including volunteering with Main Street Kent, serving on nonprofit boards, and her experience as a member of Leadership Portage County. She reflects on the value of engaging with people who hold different perspectives, the responsibility of leaders to reduce division, and the power of showing up for others—particularly when times are hard. Throughout the conversation, Keleigh emphasizes that leadership is not about getting ahead of others, but about bringing people with you, creating community, and helping others feel seen, valued, and supported.

------ The Best Leadership Podcast Ever is a project of Leadership Portage County in Northeast Ohio and showcases alumni from the program. Guests share stories of leadership successes and challenges. Follow "The Best Leadership Podcast Ever" wherever you get your podcasts.