Leadmore Podcast

Leadership begins earlier than many of us realize. In this episode of the Leadmore Podcast, Charlotte Snyder, Head of School at the Baan Dek Montessori, explores how children lead and how parents can encourage leadership in their children. She explains the core philosophy of Montessori education and how their school has had to adapt amidst a global pandemic. Don’t miss Charlotte’s advice for how adults can apply a little Montessori philosophy to upgrade their everyday life.

To learn about the future, we must study the past. Dr. David O’Hara is a professor of philosophy and religion at Augustana University and one of the brightest minds you’ll meet. Dr. O’Hara believes in the power of classic languages, ancient philosophy, a good cup of tea, and the little things in life. In this episode, Dr. O’Hara connects the dots to show you unexpected connections and help you learn something you didn’t know before. Listen to our conversation to hear about why teachers are so...

Stephanie Herseth Sandlin has always been ambitious. In high school, she was voted Girls State Governor. In her twenties, she earned undergraduate, graduate, and law degrees from Georgetown University. At 33, Stephanie went on to become the first woman from South Dakota elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. She is now the president of Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD.Stephanie shares openly that she did not achieve these milestones alone. In this episode, she shares how her rel...

Rick Melmer has played nearly every role in the classroom you can imagine—teacher, principal, superintendent, and even state education secretary. Along the way, he learned what makes leaders tick and how each person can leverage their unique style and personality to become a powerful leader. Now, as founder of Leadership South Dakota, Rick shares his vision of transforming his home state by helping 400+ leaders grow and develop.

Bestselling author Kim Scott has seen firsthand the power of radical candor. From managing diamond cutters in Russia to interviewing for a job with Apple CEO Tim Cook, she’s learned that people want to do meaningful work with people who care about them. In this episode, Kim explains how leaders can lead with radical candor, create a more equitable workplace, and spot the superstars in their organization. Don’t miss this great conversation with one of the premier thinkers on the people who mak...

Dr. Lon Kightlinger has found his vocation in public health. Former state epidemiologist for South Dakota and Peace Corps alumnus, Lon is a man whose adventures have taken him to all corners of the earth and back to the prairies of the Midwest. In this episode, Dr. Kightlinger talks about how leaders can step up during the pandemic and how you can marry your career with your passion.

Ashley Ballou-Bonnema’s path toward leadership is unique. Born with cystic fibrosis, Ashley earned her master’s degree in vocal performance despite living with a chronic lung disease. In episode five, hear how Ashley transformed her blog about living with CF into a non-profit, Breathe Bravely, that gives a voice to those across the world with CF. Ashley shares how she overcomes challenges and how she leads with an individualized approach to bring out each person’s unique talents.

Every leader is confronted with a moment when they are asked to rise up and lead. In episode four, John T. Meyer asks Taneeza Islam about how she knew this was her moment and what she did to prepare. Taneeza also details the critical needs of our immigrant community today and how leaders can effectively pass the baton to the next generation of leaders. Taneeza is a fierce and dedicated leader who will inspire and motivate you to create positive change.

Never one to shy away from a challenge, Ben Milne is an insanely curious person who loves to solve problems. In episode three, John T. Meyer calls Ben Milne to discuss the origin of his fintech startup, Dwolla, how he decided to reinvent the business, and when he knew it was time to replace himself as CEO of his own company. Ben is a person who cares deeply and that is very clear when you listen to this episode.

In episode two, John T. Meyer sits down with entrepreneur, musician, author, and activist, Vaney Hariri. He explains why leaders need to step up and speak out, and reflects on his experience as a black man living in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Vaney will inspire you to take action and create change in your business or personal life today.