Lead with Empower Podcast

By Dan Jaskot

Great leadership looks, sounds, and feels different based on the leader and the situation. However, there are common threads that connect all tremendous leaders.

Our goal is to connect with leaders w... more

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FAQs about Lead with Empower Podcast:

How many episodes does Lead with Empower Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 62 episodes available.

Lead with Empower Podcast episodes:

April 22, 2021Carl Johnson Leads with Empower
"The memories of a man in his old age are the deeds of a man in his prime"
- Free Four, Pink Floyd
Carl Johnson, the Principal of Plainville HS (Plainville, CT), Leads with Empower! Carl is a lifelong educator who joined us during the school's April Vacation to share his journey from young history enthusiast to educator and principal, and to discuss the role leadership plays in the Plainville HS operation and in his life. A wonderful conversation with an even better human being!
"Trying to look for positive disruptions"
00:00: Episode Introduction and "Roll Call"
Carl, currently the Plainville HS Principal, is originally from W. Hartford, CT and a graduate from the University of Connecticut. Carl has 5 years of experience in school administration (2.5 years as Vice Principal and 2.5 years as Principal) and over 15 years of experience in education.
We discuss the challenges (plus solutions and lessons) from the end of the 2019-2020 school year and the first half of the 2020-2021 year.
Carl shares the importance of effective and transparent communication, compassion, and empathy in leadership during times of uncertainty and challenge
What is Carl most proud about - the students, families, teachers, and staff who have made "collective sacrifices for the good of everyone else"
17:32: History Trips with Dad, the Passing of Mom, and the Power of Teachers
We learn about Carl's childhood years, discuss moments that have had significant influence on who he is today as a leader, and learn about how Carl began his journey as an educator
"At this moment, you have a choice to make" - Carl reflects on sage advice from his MIddle School Principal after the passing of his mother
We learn about how Carl's childhood trips to Fort McClary (Kittery Point, ME) with his father and how his love for history was cultivated
The Power of Carl's Teachers - "My teachers saw things in me that I didn't see; encouraged that to come out, and pushed me to be a better person"
31:40: Leadership in Action
Carl shares the "big surprise" from his first year as a teacher
We learn about Carl's leadership strengths, leadership challenges, and tactics he's implemented to continue is leadership development (be reflective and surround yourself with people who are brutally honest!)
Carl shares the leadership qualities he looks for in teachers - "As long as you're doing right by the kids, you're not going to make a bad decision"
We learn about the "Portrait of a Graduate" - the 5 key skills (Communicative, Collaborative, Resilient, Innovative Problem Solvers, and Mindfulness)
56:30: "Finish the Drill" and Episode Closure
We close the episode with a handful of "rapid fire, rapid response" questions - including (1) Carl's Childhood Role Model, (2) Carl's strength that he hopes to pass along to his children, (3) his hobbies, (4) a song that represents Carl as a leader, and (5) why the PHS students inspire him!
Follow Plainville HS on Facebook and Twitter
Follow Carl on Twitter
Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot
Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co
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April 20, 2021 Rocky Hill Youth & Family Services Bureau Leads with Empower
"It is really nice to do something that makes someone else smile because that always makes me smile!"
Providing youths with positive and safe opportunities to build trusting relationships, develop important life skills, serve their community, and learn to lead is an important facet of youth development. Young adults thrive when given the opportunity to do so!
This episode of the Lead with Empower Podcast features the Rocky Hill Youth and Family Services Bureau - more specifically, Lori Stanczyc, the Youth Coordinator, and Kylie, Abheri, Matt, Abhinav, Danielle, Jasmine, and Parth - the RHYFSB Youth to Youth Coalition.
During our conversation, we learn about RHYFSB and the Youth to Youth Coalition from discussions with Lori and her student group.
Lori shares the history of the RHYFSB and some of their current initiatives while the students discuss (1) why they joined, (2) some of their favorite activities and initiatives, (3) why other students should join the Y2Y Coalition, and how they hope to impact the community members of Rocky Hill, CT.
An absolutely inspirational listen - we hope you enjoy!!!
Visit the RHYFSB website, and follow the Youth to Youth Coalition on Facebook and Instagram, to learn more about these extraordinary young adults and all things youth development in Rocky Hill!
Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot
Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co
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April 14, 2021Farrand Violette Leads with Empower
"Life in 15 Minute Increments" - Farrand Violette Leads with Empower! Today's episode features a great conversation with an old friend from Springfield College Football - Farrand Violette. Farrand is currently serving as a teacher, special education case manager, and assistant football coach in Knoxville, TN. Farrand shares great stories, anecdotes, and advice during our conversation - bringing his unique and engaging perspective on leadership to the Lead with Empower Podcast.
"It's important to understand all the details, be a jack of all trades. Be knowledgeable about the things you are not supposed to be knowledgeable about. Be understanding and caring towards the things that you are not supposed to care for or understand. Be accepting so people can feel open to communicate, to learn, and to express themselves."
00:00: Episode Introduction and "Roll Call"
Farrand is a Teacher, Special Education Case Manager, Coach, and soon-to-be PhD Candidate in Knoxville, TN by way of Houston, TX, Springfield, MA, and Manchester, CT!
Our conversation includes a journey through Farrand's educational, athletic, and professional career and discussions about the leaders and experiences that have impacted him as a leader and mentor to those that he leads.
"Take every day as a blessing, just embrace the opportunity to impact people's lives and be transformative."
15:30: Houston, Springfield, Connecticut, and Knoxville - Farrand's Leadership Journey
Farrand discusses his upbringing in athletics, his decision to attend Springfield College, and his career journey while sharing insight into who he has become as a leader; including (1) advice for students who are in the college decision making process and (2) the importance of "failing gloriously".
"You're not going to get all the answers, you better come up with the answers; you have to figure it out and you have to find a way."
22:58: Leadership in Action
"You have to set a standard for how you're going to do things and how you are going to communicate."
Farrand discusses how he helps his students and student-athletes become more confident in the face of failure, shares stories about the people and experiences that have shaped him as a leader, and provides insight into how he became a teacher.
"If you understand the content, you're able to communicate well, and you can think quickly on your feet, you can teach."
52:45: "Finish the Drill" and Episode Closure
As always, we wrap up the episode with a "rapid fire" Q & A session with our guest, Mr. Farrand Violette. While "Finishing the Drill", we learn who Farrand's favorite athlete was when he was a young child, the best advice Farrand received from his parents, advice he would give to his 18 year old self, advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, and the legacy he hopes to leave on the students and student-athletes he leads.
Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot
Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co
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March 31, 2021Justin Carbonella and Bonnie Daley Lead with Empower
The Middletown Youth Services Bureau Team Leads with Empower! We are joined by Justin Carbonella, Youth Services Coordinator, and Bonnie Daley, Diversion Coordinator, from the City of Middletown Youth Services Bureau. I have had the pleasure of working alongside Bonnie, Justin, and many young adults from the MYSB over the years and can say with the utmost confidence that Bonnie and Justin are both tremendous community leaders and advocates for youths and young adults in the City of Middletown and beyond!
00:00: Episode Introduction and "Roll Call"
We start the episode with a discussion about the MYSB, its role in the Middletown community, and we learn about the day-to-day leadership responsibilities of both Bonnie and Justin.
The MYSB is a multi-tiered agent of change focused on critically-conscious youth development. The MYSB prides itself on advocating for youths and families while providing opportunities for youth-led social change.
"There is a misperception that we need to shield young people from complicated and challenging issues, that we need to protect their innocence. That is not true; these are issues that young people care deeply about and are impacted by!"
18:02: Leadership Journey to Middletown Youth Services Bureau
Bonnie and Justin share their journey, leadership lessons learned, people who impacted them throughout, and a moment of failure that has had a positive impact on their lives!
"Seeing adults willing to take on extra work or create new paths; what that does to someone's confidence and sense of worth - I think that becomes the thing I try to pay forward."
24:40: Leadership in Action
Justin and Bonnie discuss their roles in activating as many youth/young adult leaders as possible by giving them the skills to bring their leadership to wherever their passions lie.
"It is important to have young people see your vulnerabilities and to see that, even as an adult, there are going to be moments that you struggle, but you have people around you who will support you through it all."
Bonnie and Justin also discuss the importance of relationships in youth development and share their advice for those struggling to connect with the youths that they lead.
"Relationships are a huge part of leadership, it is a notion that is baked deeply into our theory of change and it is what allows us to help youths and young adults realize what they are capable of."
76:35: "Finish the Drill" and Episode Closure
As always, we wrap up our tremendous conversation with a few "quick hitters" with Bonnie and Justin - including (1) their "silver linings" from 2020, (2) their favorite part of working at MYSB, and (3) the leadership quality they hope to pass along to the youths, young adults, and families they serve.
"Every problem has a solution, we don't let things that don't matter distract us from the things that do!"
Learn more about the Middletown Youth Services Bureau by visiting their website and following on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot
Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co
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March 24, 2021Joe Dumpson Leads with Empower
Joe Dumpson, Community Leader and Shift Manager for the State of Massachusetts Department of Youth Services, joins the Lead with Empower Podcast! I first met Joe, or as we call him "D", in the Fall of 2003 at the Mill Pond School. Joe was the in-house room supervisor at the time and quickly became a mentor to me at the Mill Pond School due to his ability to connect with and lead the youths we worked with.
Joe shares his incredible story from being a youth/young adult who experienced challenges to becoming an adult who is advocating, leading, and inspiring youths in communities throughout Springfield, MA.
00:00: Episode Introduction and "Roll Call"
Joe discusses the leadership challenges brought on by the pandemic; focusing on balancing work, distance learning, and family.
Joe also shares the tremendous impact that Ed Tharion has had on him during a formative time in his life.
Joe discusses the importance of leading "in the trenches" vs. leading from the safety of "a bubble".
"I'm going to give you as much love as you need, but I'm going to provide the structure that you need as well."
33:45: From "Latchkey Kid" to Leader
Joe shares stories from challenges he faced as a youth/young adult in Springfield and how those challenges shaped who he is today as a leader and as a person.
We learn about how experiences at the Mill Pond School helped Joe mature into a community leader who is passionate about helping youths, young adults, and adults overcome and thrive!
"To panic during chaos, does not make it better!"
54:54: "Steel Sharpens Steel" - Community Leadership in Action
Joe discusses community initiatives that he has led; including the "Walking School Bus" for Springfield youths, Fitness Training for young adults/adults, and his Sunday Afternoon Men's Group - Steel Sharpens Steel
"If you don't empty the trash can, it will empty itself" - It is important for men to find an outlet so negative emotions/feelings/experiences aren't buried.
74:15: "Finish the Drill" and Episode Closure
We wrap up the episode with some rapid fire/rapid response questions with Joe. We settle the debate of who was the "Chess King" at the Mill Pond School, we hear advice Joe would give to his 15 year old self, Joe shares his definition of leadership, and more!
Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot
Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co
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March 17, 2021 Dan Jaskot Leads with Empower
One year ago, the Lead with Empower was just a random thought that flew through the somewhat empty space in my brain! Over the past 12 months, we have recorded 46 episodes with 62 unique guests - guests who are all absolute inspirations when it comes to leading themselves and leading others!
The 47th episode of the Lead with Empower Podcast is a bit different. I step over to the "other side of the microphone" and am interviewed by the one and only Sara Stirling in an effort to recap the past year of adventure on the Lead with Empower Podcast.
This episode includes conversations about starting the podcast, "A-Ha" leadership moments experienced during our many recordings, memorable moments, dream guests, and much more!
Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot
https://soundcloud.com/matt-jaskot
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March 11, 2021 Empowered Athletes Overcome Webinar
This episode of the Lead with Empower podcast is an audio recording of our most recent webinar - Empowered Athletes Overcome. The purpose of the webinar was to connect high school athletes, who aspire to compete in college athletics, with our panel of college coaches. Our panel includes Coach Kevin Loney (Bowdoin College Football), Coach Laura Duncan (University of New Haven Women's Soccer), Coach Josh Edmed (Connecticut College Women's Volleyball), Coach Kelly Thompson (Roger Williams University Women's Basketball), and Coach John Klepacki (Western New England University Men's Lacrosse). The panel shares their insights and strategies to help high school athletes best prepare for the jump to collegiate athletics!
00:00: Episode Introduction and "Roll Call"
13:03: Topic of Discussion - Physical and Technical Preparation
26:44: Topic of Discussion - Academic, Social, and Emotional Wellness
43:14: Topic of Discussion - Communication and Accountability Throughout the Recruiting Process
58:12: Webinar Closure - "Finish the Drill"
Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot
https://soundcloud.com/matt-jaskot
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March 04, 2021Zach Hoffman Leads with Empower
Zach Hoffman - Founder and CEO of Swiss-Army Leadership Leads with Empower. Zach is originally from Pittsburg, PA and grew up with dreams of playing in the NFL. While Zach's childhood dream did not come to fruition, Zach discovered his true calling as a coach, mentor, and leader! Zach shares his story from college athlete in the States and professional American Football Player in Europe to authoring a book (Finding the Good Life as a SWA Leader) and founding Swiss-Army Leadership!
00:00: Episode Introduction and "Roll Call"
Introducing Zach Hoffman, the Founder and CEO of Swiss-Army Leadership. Zach joined the Lead with Empower podcast on the tail-end of his trip to visit family in California. He will soon be arriving back home in Austria to continue his work as a coach and small business owner!
Zach introduces Swiss-Army Leadership and shares how his experiences in 6 different countries helped form the tools leaders need to effectively relate with others.
"It is so easy to assume that the way we were brought up and the way we grew up is the only way to lead. However, it is not until you step out of your own realm when you realize that it's not the only way. The most important thing a leader can do is to earn people's respect."
13:15: The "Dorm Room Decision" - Zach's Journey to from the United States to Europe
Coming to the realization that his NFL dream was not going to happen led to a difficult decision.
His subsequent trip to Poland showed Zach "the world from an outside perspective".
"Without the tough decision and adversity, I would not have written a book and started a business to mentor young people."
24:30: Professional American Football in Europe
Zach discusses differences in the game when compared to his experiences in the United States as well as the tremendous amount of growth in Europe from 2012-2021
Zach also shares insight into his transition from professional athlete to youth coach - highlighting the following lesson from his playing days:
"Run towards adversity and step out of your comfort zone. On the other side of that adversity is our happiness, our destiny, and our legacy."
34:16: Swiss-Army Leadership (SWAL)
We learn about Zach's inspiration to take an adventure into entrepreneurship and how his passion to connect with people drives the mission of SWAL.
"Listen to peoples' stories, ask questions, not answer questions. This strategy will make you a more well-rounded person, a person that people want to follow. It will allow you to create your legacy."
43:33: The Home Stretch and Finishing the Drill
As always, we wrap up with 5 quick-hit questions; including (1) Zach's "out of sport" role model as a child, (2) his favorite athlete, (3) most memorable sport accomplishment, (4) future vision for SWAL, and (5) advice for aspiring leaders!
Visit the SWAL website, follow SWAL on Facebook and Instagram, and stay up to date with the SWAL Blog to learn more about Zach Hoffman and Swiss-Army Leadership.
Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot
https://soundcloud.com/matt-jaskot
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52min
February 25, 2021Sara Stirling Leads with Empower Part II
Sara Stirling is back for part 2 of a 3-part "podcast mini-series" focused on Goal Setting and Goal Achievement in 2021. Sara shares her personal goal for 2021 (Create 10 new art pieces per month), her plan for achievement, and an update as to how things are going 5-weeks into her goal achievement journey!
00:00: Episode Introduction and "Roll Call"
We catch up with Sara Stirling, the VP of Marketing Operations for Empower Adventures and Empower Leadership, to receive a "5-weeks in" update on her goal achievement journey
Sara also provides updates on her with with the Empower Adventure Parks in Florida, Virginia, and Connecticut
12:06: A Refresher on Episode 1
Sara provides a "refresher" for those who missed the first episode of our podcast mini-series including what her actual goal is and why it is important to her
23:28: Formation of Success Habits - The Foundation Has Been Laid
Sara provides an update on her goal achievement journey that focuses on the formation of her success habits
Sara also dishes on some of the challenges she has faced thus far, strategies implemented to overcome those challenges, and the concept of "resetting expectations"
33:15: The "Home Stretch"
5 question "rapid fire" to finish off the episode, including (1) Sara's inspiration for her upcoming art creation, (2) what music Sara is currently listening to, (3) what Sara is currently watching, (4) Sara's key strength and weakness, and (5) Sara's advice to those who haven't started their 2021 goal setting and achievement journey
"Just do it, take the first step. Tomorrow will always be tomorrow until we stop saying it."
Check out Sara's Art Live-Streams on Twitch Check out Sara's Art (available for purchase) on Etsy
Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot
https://soundcloud.com/matt-jaskot
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39min
February 18, 2021Ulish Booker Leads with Empower
Episode IV, Season 3 - Ulish Booker, CEO of Spartan Global Network, Leads with Empower! Ulish is a retired professional football player, with World Bowl (NFL Europe) and Super Bowl rings, who has taken the jump into the adventure of entrepreneurship. Ulish shares his story and leadership lessons learned along the way from West Haven High School to Michigan State University followed by his jump to the professional ranks and his most recent adventure - founding the Spartan Global Network!
00:00: Episode Opening and Guest "Roll Call"
Ulish introduces us to Spartan Global Network and shares his thoughts on Super Bowl LV, Tom Brady, and his former teammate, Plaxico Burress
14:10: From West Haven High School Football to Entrepreneur
"I wasn't one of those guys that put the playbook on his head and learned by osmosis. I had to work tirelessly on my study habits both on and off the field."
"A lot of the experiences and adversity that you face as an athlete - if you're smart, you take those things and transition them into your civilian life and it makes you a better person."
35:45: A Time of Transition - Challenges Faced and Strategies to Overcome
Ulish discusses being cut by an NFL team and the work/determination required to continue his chase towards becoming a professional football player.
42:03: The Importance of Education and the Entrepreneurship Adventure
"At the end of the day, you stop running as fast, jumping as high, and hitting as hard - Father Time is undefeated. You have to have something to rely on and for me, education was the formal task that helped me complete tasks, while reimagining and re-developing who I was."
45:09: Spartan Global Network
Ulish shares his insight into the birth of SGN and discusses the services offered via the SGN Online Platform- including health and wellbeing, travel, small business, and life insurance.
"The value of who you are is the legacy you leave behind."
Learn more about Spartan Global Network
55:15: The Home Stretch
We wrap up the episode hearing Ulish's thoughts on (1) the Pizza Capital of the World, (2) leadership lessons learned from Coach McCarthy, Coach Saban, Coach Williams, and Coach Cowher, (3) a football lesson that sticks with him to this day, (4) future vision of SGN, and (5) advice for high school athletes aspiring to compete at the next level.
"Remove all doubt, remove any questions, and leave no stone unturned so you are best prepared and able to perfect your craft."
Learn more about Spartan Global Network
Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot
https://soundcloud.com/matt-jaskot
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1h 3min

FAQs about Lead with Empower Podcast:

How many episodes does Lead with Empower Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 62 episodes available.