Think Like A Leader

July 2010   This episode is an interview with Maria Myrback, a lady I met in the Orlando, Florida airport as I was awaiting a flight to Memphis.   Maria has just begun a non-profit organization, The Great Experiment Scholarship, designed to award small scholarships of $10-40 to support simple science experiments. If you desire more information, you may contact Maria by email or visit her web site.   I look quite forward to reading your comments on this blog.  Please click the link at the bottom of this posting and let us hear what you think.  It's possible that your comments will be the ones that stir some other reader into taking the precise action that we desire.  You can contribute to this podcast in any of the following ways:  Email me 

This is Part Two of a series with two special guests: Lucy Gray and Carol Anne McGuire.Lucy Gray is an Instructional Technology Specialist at the University of Chicago (IL) Center for Elementary Math and Science Education.  Among her numerous awards are having been named an Apple Distinguished Educator (2005), Discovery Educator Network Star Teacher, and Google Certified Teacher.  Lucy is a popular speaker at national and international conferences.  Also, Lucy has a strong reputation as a collector and organizer of robust online resources, using such technologies as blogs, wikis, nings, Twitter, and Facebook, among others.Carol Anne McGuire is a teacher and Instructional Technology Specialist at the New Village Leadership Academy in Calabasas, CA.  Formerly, she was an award-winning teacher of blind and visually impaired students.  The fact that amazes most people is that Carol Anne was teaching these visually impaired students to make videos!!  Those videos have been shown around the world.Among the awards a

My special guests for this episode are Lucy Gray and Carol Anne McGuire.Lucy Gray is an Instructional Technology Specialist at the University of Chicago (IL) Center for Elementary Math and Science Education.  Among her numerous awards are having been named an Apple Distinguished Educator (2005), Discovery Educator Network Star Teacher, and Google Certified Teacher.  Lucy is a popular speaker at national and international conferences.  Also, Lucy has a strong reputation as a collector and organizer of robust online resources, using such technologies as blogs, wikis, nings, Twitter, and Facebook, among others.Carol Anne McGuire is a teacher and Instructional Technology Specialist at the New Village Leadership Academy in Calabasas, CA.  Formerly, she was an award-winning teacher of blind and visually impaired students.  The fact that amazes most people is that Carol Anne was teaching these visually impaired students to make videos!!  Those videos have been shown around the world.Among the awards and recognitions

Our special guest for this episode is Ms. Vicki Davis, a very successful classroom teacher in Camilla, GA.  Vicki is also a grant-winning educator who has created several collaborative projects involving students and schools around the world.Vicki and/or her projects have won several awards.   She and her co-collaborator, Julie Lindseay (Qatar Academy, Qatar), have built a global audience around their Flat Classroom Project.Flat Classroom Project  Other projects in which Vicki is active include:Net Gen EdDigiteens As you listen to Vicki's comments during this episode, I believe you will be struck with the reality that this teacher is dedicated, motivated, and determined to prepare her students for success in the 21st Century -- and in a global environment.Should you wish to contact Vicki, she can be reached at coolcatteacher@gmail.com I look quite forward to reading your comments on this blog.  Please click the link at the bottom of this posting and let us hear what you think.  It's possible that your

Our special guest for this episode is Ms. Kelly Janzen, a very successful educator, musician, and leader among her peers.Kelly is a motivating teacher who discusses the role of technologies in the lives of her students and how they grow as a result of interacting with new technologies.Also, Kelly talks about teachers' roles as leaders who can model excellent leadership behavior to peers and superiors.The web site for Kelly's school is http://www.wcdhs.ca -- so feel free to visit and see what she and her students are accomplishing. Should you wish to contact Kelly, she can be reached at Kelly.Janzen@ugdsb.on.ca I look quite forward to reading your comments on this blog.  Please click the link at the bottom of this posting and let us hear what you think.  It's possible that your comments will be the ones that stir some other reader into taking the precise action that we desire. You can contribute to this podcast in any of the following ways: Email me

I have two pieces of information to pass along to you: New email address for the podcast: thinklikealeader@gmail.com New series of episodes forthcoming. The general topic is key principles/characteristics of an effective leader. A sampling of topics is: good listener compassionate reliable leader vs. manager consistent risk-taker unselfish It is very important for you to participate by suggesting additional topics (key principles or characteristics), making general comments, telling stories about your experiences with good (or poor) leaders, or asking questions to be addressed on the episodes. You can contribute to this podcast in any of the following ways: Email me

Our special guest for this episode is Ms. Lori Clark, a very successful young business leader who has demonstrated remarkable persistence, determination, and resolve as she has built a large team of business partners. Not only is Lori Clark successful in business, but she also is very active in community affairs, youth activities, and her church. During this episode, Lori discusses difficult events early in her life that contributed to her success currently. While living in Memphis, Tennessee, her father experienced a significant downsizing in the corporate world. As a result, Lori's family went through a bankruptcy. She learned many lessons during this time that have helped her through the years. She had to begin working at an early age, but also pursued a four-year degree at Mississippi State University. Times were hard and many family decisions were profoundly difficulty, but she persisted through all these obstacles. During those years of living and working hard in Memphis, her persistence paid

I've been anticipating this episode for many months!  My two guests are:  Dr. Michael O'Dell and Dr. Ed Hill, two premier physicians from the North Mississippi medical community. Dr. Mike O'Dell is Director of the Family Medicine Residency Center in Tupelo, MS.  Mike has a background in academic circles, having taught and led at several major universities, including the University of Kansas, University of Texas, and University of Alabama.  Now, he is not only a family physician, but also leads the preparation program for physician residents.  Dr. O'Dell is very active in community affairs, including Rotary Club and his church. Dr. Ed Hill is a man who has achieved numerous accomplishments during his medical career.  He founded the Family Medicine Residency Center and ran it for several years until Dr. O'Dell was recruited to come in and relieve Dr. Hill to address some of the other activities that called him.  He has been extremely active in medical profession affairs, including a year's stint as Preside

Two outstanding ladies join me for this episode -- Dr. Mabel Murphree and Mrs. Doyce Deas -- to discuss the philosophies, roles, and conditions of women in leadership. Dr. Mabel Murphree is a freelance consultant, dealing in education, workforce education and development, and political matters.  She is former Director of the Appalachian Region Commission, with offices in Tupelo, MS.  Dr. Murphree is a well-respected educator, speaker, and civic activist. Mrs. Doyce Deas is, among many other things, a current member of the Tupelo (MS) City Council.  She has been active for many years in health care, education, arts, and civic boards and events. During this episode, Dr. Murphree and Mrs. Deas enumerate many traits and characteristics of effective leaders that are particularly applicable to females.  However, as you will hear, these are not limited to one gender. Some of the outstanding books they recommend are: The Fred Factor The Servant Leadership Five Dysfunctions of

What does leadership mean in a growing community? What organizations in a community will help young people become stronger leaders? What are the characteristics you have found among others you consider as leaders that have helped you become a stronger leader? Two outstanding corporate CEOs and community leaders, Mr. Chauncey Godwin (Heavenly Ham, Tupelo, MS) and Mr. Mike Thomas (CEO of American Furniture Manufacturing in Tupelo, MS), discuss these and other pertinent topics. This episode has a lot of "meat" in it that will give you some good ideas. But, rather than just listening passively to this episode, I suggest that you do the following: Take good notes, making sure you capture the key points Write down any questions and/or comments Send them to the Think Like A Leader offices. Contact me if you would like to submit an audio file containing your comments on anything related to this podcast Let me hear from you (can you tell I really want your feedback and input???) I strongly encourage you

What a terrific impact Jim Collins' outstanding book, Good to Great has had upon our society! Curriculum Director and Apple Distinguished Educator, Trang Lai from Orange County, CA, is featured in a thorough, provocative review of Collins' book. I know you will gain new insights as you hear her review. But, rather than just listening passively to this episode, I suggest that you do the following: Take good notes, making sure you capture the key points Write down any questions and/or comments Send them to the Think Like A Leader offices. Contact me if you would like to submit an audio file containing your comments on either the book or the review Let me hear from you (can you tell I really want your feedback and input???) If you don't yet have your own copy of Good to Great, here is a link where you can find it: I strongly encourage you to submit your comments and/or questions so we can use them in a future episode. No doubt, many of you have instituted some Good to Great principles in your

This exciting episode features a compelling interview with Dr. Evangeline Stefanakis, renowned author of Multiple Intelligences and Portfolios: A Window into the Learners Mind (link to the book is shown below). This interview was recorded in Atlanta, Georgia during the National Educational Computing Conference in late June, 2007, immediately following a presentation I had just finished co-presenting with Dr. Gordon Dahlby of West Des Moines, Iowa. Dr. Stefanakis joined me at the front of the room for this chat, so I pulled out my iPod, connected the Belkin stereo microphone, and began recording. I am so impressed with all the things I learned from Dr. Stefanakis, as well as the inspiration and provocative energy she imparted for all listeners to this podcast. Now, as you listen to the recording, here's how you can help: Make notes Write down your questions and comments Send them in to the Think Like A Leader offices. Contact me if you would like to be interviewed on this topic for a future session -- or

The final installment of our 3-part series devoted to: How Leaders Deal with Adversity. Episode Feature: Vickie Ramsey's Bout with Breast Cancer Panelists included: Dr. Sam Pace, MD -- a noted gastroenterologist in Tupelo, MS Dr. Mary Pace, MD -- a physician who has her own private practice and who deals often with traumatic conditions (also, Dr. Sam Pace's wife) Vickie Ramsey -- an instructor at Northeast Mississippi Community College. She also has authored a book, Humor 'n Healing about her experience with breast cancer. Kristi Brown -- a popular speaker, author, and life coach. Kristi's book, To Walk on Fertile Ground: Extraordinary Living through Infertility and Cancer, is just hot off the press. The original recording took place in December 2006; however, the entire program lasted for almost 1.5 hours. So, I split it into three parts. I encourage you to send in your comments and/or questions so we can use them in a future episode. I know that many of you have compelling stories that will i

This episode is Part Two of the 3-part program during which I interviewed four outstanding local leaders. Our topic for the discussion was How Leaders Deal with Adversity. Each panelist is particularly well-qualified to speak about this matter. Episode Feature: Kristi Brown's Bout with Cancer Panelists included: Dr. Sam Pace, MD -- a noted gastroenterologist in Tupelo, MS Dr. Mary Pace, MD -- a physician who has her own private practice and who deals often with traumatic conditions (also, Dr. Sam Pace's wife) Vickie Ramsey -- an instructor at Northeast Mississippi Community College. She also has authored a book, Humor 'n Healing about her experience with breast cancer. Kristi Brown -- a popular speaker, author, and life coach. Kristi's book, To Walk on Fertile Ground: Extraordinary Living through Infertility and Cancer, is just hot off the press. The original recording took place in December 2006; however, the entire program lasted for almost 1.5 hours. So, I have split it into three parts. P

Recently, I had the privilege of convening a panel of individuals who are recognized locally as strong leaders to discuss the important topic, How Leaders Deal with Adversity. This was a most informative and provocative interview. Panelists included: Dr. Sam Pace, MD -- a noted gastroenterologist in Tupelo, MS Dr. Mary Pace, MD -- a physician who has her own private practice and who deals often with traumatic conditions (also, Dr. Sam Pace's wife) Vickie Ramsey -- an instructor at Northeast Mississippi Community College. She also has authored a book, Humor 'n Healing, about her experience with breast cancer. Kristi Brown -- a popular speaker, author, and life coach. Kristi's book, To Walk on Fertile Ground: Extraordinary Living through Infertility and Cancer, is just hot off the press. You'll want to email Kristi and request a book, ask a question, or make a comment. The original recording took place in December 2006; however, the entire program lasted for almost 1.5 hours. So, I have split it i

Great leaders often do the small things in big ways. And, many times, this means they do "just a little bit more" than is required. That's what gives them the competitive edge over their competition--that razor's edge! In this episode, we discuss just a few recommendations that, while seemingly small, can make all the difference in our success: Greet others first Smile! Be courteous Offer help before it's sought Send cards or letters to offer a word of encouragement, thanks, etc. Return phone calls promptly Check your email messages to ensure that they aren't harsh or could be misinterpreted Read Good to Great by Jim Collins and Psychology of Winning by Denis Waitley. These are just two of the many books I consider essential in a leader's library. Remember, "all leaders are readers." Seek ways to make others' jobs easier and faster Value others' opinions Apologize if wrong has been done. True/effective leaders take personal responsibility for their errant actions. If you have not done so already,

My guest this episode is Sheriff Jim Johnson from Lee County, Mississippi (my home of Tupelo is in Lee County). As you will hear in this episode, there is another famous person who was born in Tupelo and Sheriff Johnson has some connections to this person's family. During our conversation in Sheriff Johnson's office, he outlined several aspects of what makes an effective leader. He gives several examples of how these principles have been put into action in his life. Links to some of the resources he recommends are given below: Cops-n-Kids -- a program that collects children's books, then distributes them to children living in abused, neglected circumstances. Max Lucado's book, In the Eye of the Storm Sheriff Johnson invites any listeners who have ideas, suggestions, or questions to email him. Or, you may call his office at 1-662-841-9040 If you have not done so already, please subscribe to this podcast so you can receive all episodes automatically. Then, please feel free to send your comments an

Recently, I had an opportunity to sit down with Kristi Brown and talk about several aspects of leadership. The first two episodes have been posted already (Episodes 11 and 12). However ... ...as Kristi and I continued our "off air" conversations, it became increasingly apparent to me that Kristi's compelling, moving story of her bout with cancer would be just the thing for this leadership podcast. As you will hear in this program, Kristi and her husband, Steve, had tried for several years to have children shortly after their marriage 14 years ago. However, they discovered, during a routine check with her doctors, that Kristi had a rare condition known as premature ovarian failure -- which meant that she could not have children. The only possibility of their having children would be via in vitro fertilization. After the passage of time, they tried this procedure and Kristi did, in fact, become pregnant. Now, rather than my telling you the rest of the story, I think you will find it necessary to subscr

My guest again this episode is Kristi Brown from Starkville, Mississippi (home of Miss. State University). In this episode, we discuss some of the particular features of leaders we have known, watched, and worked with--both the positive and the negative. Some leaders seem to have an innate ability to lead people or full teams, while others seem to find joy in tearing teams apart. This destructive nature of some leaders--at least positional leaders--gives them a feeling of power. Only the weak leaders feed on power. The strong leaders create power among their people, then they give that power away, quite judiciously, to their team members who exhibit the ability to handle power that comes their way. I feel sure that, as you listen to this episode, you will remember leaders for whom you have worked. But, the key question may be: Are you the kind of leader you really want to be? If you have not done so already, please subscribe to this podcast so you can receive all episodes automatically. Then, pleas

My guest this episode is Kristi Brown, an energetic and enthusiastic young lady who has both achieved and observed leadership in a variety of venues. She is a public relations professional, a certified meeting planner, and an overall "good gal." I believe you will really enjoy hearing the perspective Kristi has on leaders and leadership in several types of organizations. Kristi lives with her husband, Steve, along with her two beautiful white Labs, Sadie and Lily, in Starkville, Mississippi, home of Mississippi State University. I first met Kristi when she was working on staff at Shades Mountain Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. She had a Mississippi State coaster on her desk, so that initiated a conversation between us. It's funny how just that one instant has brought us back together so many times since then. Subsequent to that, Kristi moved to Starkville, MS (where I lived most of my life and taught at Mississippi State University) and worked in the Chamber of Commerce. Not too long thereafte