In this episode of Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership, host Sarah Hempstead speaks with Dr. Tanuja Singh, president of the University of Indianapolis.

Dr. Singh shares her extraordinary journey from particle physics in India to purposeful leadership in higher education. She discusses the importance of belonging, mentorship, and preparing the next generation of women leaders—offering a candid and inspiring look at what it means to lead with empathy, curiosity and conviction.

Key highlights:

• From particle physics to people-centered leadership
  Singh began her career in science, but discovered her true calling in higher education—where she could make a personal impact. “I liked particles, but I liked people better,” she said.
• Parental support and early empowerment
  Raised in a household that valued independence and education, Singh credits her father—a self-described feminist—for instilling in her the belief that she could do anything.
• Creating community and belonging
  Her decision to attend Millsaps College in Mississippi was shaped by a sense of personal connection. That same value of caring deeply for individuals now informs her leadership at UIndy.
• Empowering women leaders through action
  Singh helped launch the Women’s Executive Leadership Institute, a program rooted in mentorship, skill-building and support for emerging women leaders across industries in Indiana.
• Reimagining lifelong learning
  Through UIndy Online and the CS Institute, Singh is championing accessible, real-world education for adults seeking to reskill or upskill in today’s rapidly changing workforce.
• Curiosity as a leadership imperative
  Singh underscores the role of curiosity in personal and professional growth. “Higher education is where your mind learns to be resilient, adaptable and imaginative,” she said.
• A global perspective on education and equity
  Singh calls for renewed investment in U.S. higher education, warning that countries like India and China are rapidly advancing their research and experiential learning infrastructures.
• Leading with purpose—one student at a time
  Singh’s legacy is rooted in helping others discover their potential. Whether it’s a student gaining confidence or a professional finding their voice, her mission is to inspire belief in what’s possible.
• Recharge through travel and reflection
  A passionate traveler, Singh finds joy in exploring new cultures—and sees it as a way to better understand shared human values.

Singh also shares two compelling reads: Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver, and In Case of Emergency, Break Glass, a book about finding calm and clarity in an overstimulated digital world.

This episode is a must-listen for educators, leaders, and anyone committed to building a more inclusive, curious, and purpose-driven future. Hear how Dr. Tanuja Singh is shaping the future of higher education—one meaningful connection at a time.

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In this episode of Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership, host Sarah Hempstead sits down with Matthew Deck, Director of Facilities and Events for the City of Westfield, Indiana and Audra Blasdel, Waypoint Strategies Division Lead.

Deck shares how his deep-rooted love for community, inspired by his mother and mentors like former mayor Andy Cook, has shaped his leadership journey. From overseeing Grand Park—one of the largest sports complexes in the U.S.—to planning community-defining events and fostering a culture of service, Deck speaks candidly about the values that drive him. He reflects on personal growth, public service, and the importance of building spaces that bring people together.

Key highlights:

• Lessons in servant leadership: Deck recalls how witnessing leaders pick up trash or organize roadside cleanups instilled in him a humble, action-oriented approach.
• Grand Park’s transformation and future: What started as a bold idea now draws over 5 million visitors annually. Deck shares how the park is reshaping Westfield’s identity and economy.
• Investing in the next generation: From scholarships to mentorship, Deck emphasizes the importance of giving back and encouraging young people to love and serve their city.
• Balancing passion and purpose: Whether organizing large-scale events or raising daughters who understand the power of a simple thank-you, Deck brings intention to everything he does.
• Advice for aspiring public leaders: Love your city, surround yourself with good people and stay physically and mentally strong. Leadership starts with showing up—authentically and consistently.

Tune in for a conversation that will inspire anyone who believes in the power of community, creativity and committed leadership to shape a brighter future.

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In this episode of Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership, host Sarah Hempstead speaks with Brian Tomamichel, assistant superintendent for business and operations at Westfield Washington Schools. 

Tomamichel shares his unconventional path to education leadership, his passion for the outdoors, and his approach to managing growth in one of Indiana’s fastest-growing school districts. From fostering collaboration to balancing a $150 million budget, he provides insights on adaptability, resilience and the power of lifelong learning.

Key highlights:

• The power of hard work and community
  Growing up in Beech Grove, Indiana, Tomamichel learned the value of resilience and teamwork—lessons that continue to guide his leadership style.
• A passion for the outdoors and leadership parallels
  Tomamichel’s love for hiking and national parks has taught him patience, problem-solving and the importance of taking one step at a time—wisdom that applies directly to his role in education leadership.
• Leading through change and growth
  Westfield Washington Schools has grown by 1,700 students in the past four years—essentially adding an entire elementary school’s worth of students annually. Tomamichel discusses the challenges and strategies involved in maintaining excellence amid rapid expansion.
• Balancing family, leadership and personal growth
  With three children, a full-time working spouse and a Ph.D. in progress, Tomamichel reflects on the importance of time management and teamwork at home and at work.
• The business of education
  Tomamichel explores why school districts must operate with a business mindset, ensuring efficiency and sustainability while delivering high-quality education.
• A commitment to early learning
  Westfield Washington Schools is expanding its early childhood education offerings, reinforcing the critical role of preschool in student success.
• Advice for aspiring leaders
  Tomamichel’s key takeaway: Be honest, be adaptable and recognize that true leadership means making the right decisions—even when they aren’t easy.

Book recommendation: You Can’t Send a Duck to Eagle School – A leadership book emphasizing the importance of attitude in success.

This episode is filled with actionable insights and inspiring stories for educators, leaders and anyone looking to grow both personally and professionally. Tune in to hear how Tomamichel navigates the complexities of education, community service and leadership with clarity and purpose.

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In this inspiring episode of Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership, Sarah Hempstead sits down with Mike Springer, Superintendent of Norwell Community Schools, to explore his remarkable 30-year journey in education. From his humble beginnings on a farm in Illinois to leading transformative educational initiatives, Mike shares lessons on leadership, resilience, and the power of student-centered learning.

Key Highlights from the Episode:

• Early Roots in Leadership
  Mike reflects on how his upbringing on a farm instilled a strong work ethic, teamwork, and resilience—values that shaped his career in education.
• Engaging Students in Learning
  He emphasizes the importance of hands-on, immersive learning experiences, sharing anecdotes about inspiring students to wake up early for birdwatching fieldwork.
• From Teacher to Superintendent
  Hear how Mike transitioned from teaching middle school science to leading entire districts, with lessons learned from mentors and tough but transformational conversations.
• The Role of Space in Learning
  Mike shares insights from a recent project to redesign rigid, outdated classrooms into flexible environments that support collaboration, creativity, and cognitive development.
• Advice for Aspiring Educators
  His message for new teachers: stay resilient, choose the right district, and embrace the joy and reward of shaping young minds.
• The Future of Education
  Mike highlights the growing focus on cognitive development, systematic teaching approaches, and the importance of preparing students and educators to adapt to an ever-changing world.
• Book Recommendations
  Don’t miss his picks: Toy Box Leadership by Ron Hunter and Michael Waddle, and Your Child Learns Differently, Now What? by Roger Stark and Betsy Hill, which explore leadership and the science of learning.

This episode is packed with actionable insights, compelling stories, and a heartfelt passion for education. Whether you’re an educator, a leader, or just someone passionate about lifelong learning, this conversation will leave you inspired and energized.

In this inspiring episode of Luminate, Sarah Hempstead, CEO and Principal-in-Charge at Schmidt Associates, sits down with Vop Osili, President of the Indianapolis City-County Council. Vop shares his extraordinary journey from a childhood shaped by his Nigerian heritage and Indianapolis roots to his impactful career in architecture, urban design, and public service.

Discover how his parents’ legacy of resilience and service influenced his mission to champion inclusive urban development, equity in governance, and bipartisan collaboration. Learn about Vop’s unique nickname, "Voice of the People," his path through architecture, his experiences as a missionary, and his dedication to fostering community stability and growth.

Tune in for insights on navigating the intersection of design, sustainability, and policymaking—and how creative leadership can build stronger, more inclusive cities.

Episode Introduction:

Welcome to Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership, where we explore the journeys of visionary leaders making a difference. Today, our host, Sarah Hempstead, CEO and Principal-in-Charge at Schmidt Associates, is joined by Audra Blasdel, the Division Lead of Waypoint Strategies. With a diverse career spanning government, nonprofit, and educational organizations, Audra brings a unique perspective on leadership, community-driven project management, and servant leadership.

Episode Overview:

From her Indiana roots and early experiences in team-focused sports to her time managing complex projects for the Indiana Department of Transportation, Audra’s journey reveals the power of fostering connections and aligning with community needs. Audra shares insights on navigating client relationships, adapting strategies to meet project goals, and balancing career and family in an unpredictable world. This episode offers valuable takeaways on servant leadership and crafting spaces that truly serve the communities they’re built for. Join us as Audra recounts her story of developing Waypoint Strategies to guide clients in managing and maintaining their facilities with empathy and understanding.

Key Highlights:

• From Fairways to Project Management – Audra reflects on how her early experiences in competitive golf taught her about teamwork, adaptability, and the importance of contributing to a shared goal. These lessons became essential in her leadership journey.
• The Role of Family and Community – Growing up in Indiana, close to family, Audra experienced firsthand the power of strong community ties. She shares how this upbringing influenced her approach to leadership, grounding her in servant leadership principles.
• Navigating Complex Projects with Purpose – Audra highlights her experience managing the state’s Recovery Act transportation projects during the 2008 financial crisis. Her strategic, people-centered approach ensured the successful execution of hundreds of infrastructure projects, including a rail bridge that preserved local jobs.
• Waypoint Strategies – An Owner-Centric Approach – Audra describes the founding principles of Waypoint Strategies and how it differs from traditional owner’s rep services by focusing on understanding each client’s mission and values, charting a path that aligns with their unique needs and goals.
• Balancing Career, Family, and Well-being – Audra shares her perspective on “enoughness,” balancing professional and personal life through a flexible, day-to-day approach that prioritizes making intentional choices.

Conclusion:

Audra Blasdel’s journey underscores the importance of servant leadership, empathy, and resilience in strategic project management. Whether by adapting quickly to challenging conditions or building community-centered projects, Audra’s work exemplifies how thoughtful leadership can bring people together and drive meaningful change. Tune in to discover how you can navigate your own leadership path by listening, connecting, and always putting people first.

Episode 27: Rooted In Nature: Leadership, Advocacy and the Power of the Outdoors with Layla George, CEO and President of Olmsted Parks Conservancy 

Episode Introduction:

Welcome to Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership, where we dive into the minds of some of the most creative leaders shaping our world today. In today’s episode, Sarah Hempstead, CEO at Schmidt Associates, is joined by a special guest, Layla George, president and CEO of Olmsted Parks Conservancy. Layla’s passion for nature and sustainability, combined with her extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, has made her a force in land conservation and community engagement.

Episode Overview:

From her early days living on a farm and cultivating sustainable practices to leading one of Louisville’s most cherished green spaces, Layla’s journey is a testament to the impact of resilience, creative problem-solving, and advocacy. Whether you’re passionate about conservation, interested in leadership insights, or simply love public parks, this episode will offer you valuable lessons and inspiration. Join us as Layla shares her story of navigating nonprofit leadership, building community partnerships, and stewarding Louisville’s Olmsted Parks.

Key Highlights:

·         Passion for Sustainable Agriculture – Layla shares how her deep connection with nature and sustainable practices began during her time living on a family farm, sparking a lifelong commitment to ecological stewardship.

·         Volunteering as a Catalyst for Professional Growth – Layla emphasizes how her volunteer experiences played a crucial role in shaping her leadership skills and laying the groundwork for her successful career in nonprofit management.

·         Confidence and Leadership – Layla’s journey from sustainable farming to nonprofit leadership exemplifies her unwavering belief in her own abilities and her willingness to take risks, making her a standout example of confident leadership.

·         Advocacy and Strategic Collaboration – Layla highlights the power of advocacy and the critical role of strategic partnerships in advancing conservation efforts and ensuring public access to natural spaces.

·         The Essential Role of Green Spaces – Layla emphasizes the vital importance of parks, especially in urban and underserved communities, and how the COVID-19 pandemic brought to light the necessity of accessible outdoor spaces for mental health, community, and well-being.

Conclusion: Layla George leaves listeners with an inspiring reminder that embracing challenges with confidence, fostering community partnerships, and advocating for public green spaces can create lasting positive change. Whether through leadership, volunteerism, or advocacy, everyone can contribute to making their communities better, one park at a time.

Tune in to discover how creative leadership and ecological stewardship can pave the way for a healthier, more connected world.

Introduction:

Welcome to Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership. In this episode, Sarah Hempstead is joined by Dr. Paul Kaiser, Superintendent of Westfield Washington Schools. Dr. Kaiser brings over 40 years of experience in education, from being a former math teacher to leading a district of nearly 10,000 students. Together, they dive into the themes of honesty, transparency, and creative leadership in public education.

Overview:

In this episode, Dr. Kaiser reflects on his leadership journey and shares his philosophy on transparency, mentorship, and collaboration. He recounts how his experiences as a student-athlete and coach shaped his leadership style, and discusses the challenges and opportunities he faces in managing a rapidly growing school district. 

 Key Highlights:

• Mentorship and Leadership: Dr. Kaiser emphasizes the importance of mentorship, both giving and receiving, as well as peer-to-peer programs that foster leadership skills among students.
• Transparency and Trust: By sharing his personal contact information with parents, Dr. Kaiser underscores the value of open communication and transparency in building trust with the community.
• Managing Growth: Dr. Kaiser discusses the challenges of leading a rapidly growing district, balancing expansion while maintaining Westfield’s community feel.
• Creative Problem-Solving: Dr. Kaiser highlights the importance of adapting to change, launching new academic initiatives, and making tough decisions with integrity and data-driven insights.
• Diversity and Equity: The district’s efforts to create an inclusive environment that celebrates cultural diversity and supports students from all backgrounds.

Conclusion:

In this insightful episode, Dr. Paul Kaiser’s reflections offer a blueprint for creative leadership in public education. Whether you are an educator, leader, or anyone interested in navigating growth and change, Dr. Kaiser’s experiences provide valuable lessons in mentorship, transparency, and fostering academic and social success. Tune in to hear more about his ongoing efforts to build an environment of trust, excellence, and innovation in Westfield Washington Schools.

Introduction: Welcome to Luminate, where we dive into the minds of some of the most creative leaders shaping our world today. I'm Sarah Hempstead, architect, and CEO of Schmidt Associates. In this episode, I'm thrilled to sit down with David Cook, the President and CEO of Hosparus Health and Pallitus Health Partners. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare and non-profit sectors, David leads with a vision of innovation, community building, and expanding access to essential services for those navigating serious illness in Kentucky and Indiana.

Episode Overview: In our conversation, David shares his journey from a banking career to leading a major healthcare organization. He talks about his upbringing, early career challenges, and the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership philosophy. We delve into the significant role of hospice care, the importance of early conversations about end-of-life care, and the impact of comprehensive support for families during these challenging times.

David also reflects on his time in North Carolina, where he spearheaded innovative programs, including pediatric palliative care. We discuss the critical aspects of communication, consensus-building in leadership, and his passion for creating environments where his team and patients can thrive.

Key Highlights:

• David’s unique career path from banking to healthcare.
• The value of mentorship and the lessons learned from key figures in his professional life.
• Understanding the true essence of hospice care and its impact on families.
• The development and implementation of pediatric palliative care and the importance of supporting mental health and grief counseling.
• Insights on leadership, communication, and building trust within an organization.

Conclusion: David Cook’s leadership journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, compassion, and continuous learning. His commitment to providing holistic care for patients and their families is truly inspiring.

To learn more about the work of Hosparus Health, visit hospicehealth.org. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Luminate wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an update. We’d love to hear your feedback—connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at Schmidt Associates.

Until next time, keep navigating the unknown with creativity and confidence.

Thankful for his parents who were his first teachers and blessed with gifts of grit and determination, Holy Cross College President Dr. Marco Clark, Ed. D. has found great joy in serving others and impacting lives throughout his 30-year Catholic education career that has included stops in teaching high school, coaching, working with at-risk youth, teaching at the college level, and completing research in educational leadership. Learn how his experiences and human-centered approaches to creative leadership have resulted in promising futures. Get to know how hard work, building strong reputations, humbleness, and mentorship pay dividends, and what he looks forward to most as he sends new graduates into the world. Finally, feel the transformative power of positivity and respect as Dr. Clark shares stories deeply rooted in love and making the world better.