Episode 7 — Leading Without Hidden Agendas 

In this episode of Meditations on Leadership, Don Carpenter sits down with Dr. Jacqueline “Jackie” Edmondson, President of the University of Southern Maine. A first-generation college student who grew up in rural America, Jackie’s journey from the piano bench to the presidency of one of Maine’s largest public universities is a story of courage, curiosity, and purpose.

Together, Don and Jackie explore what it means to lead from wholeness rather than need — to show up in service without hidden agendas, and to trust that authenticity is the foundation of real influence. Along the way, Jackie reflects on her early mentors, her lifelong love of music, and what she’s learned about leadership through decades of teaching, writing, and leading in higher education.

If you’ve ever found yourself giving from emptiness instead of overflow, this conversation offers a gentle reminder: leadership that endures begins on the inside.

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If something in today’s episode spoke to you, I hope you’ll subscribe and continue the journey with me — because leadership begins within.