Welcome to LAA: On Leadership—a podcast presented by M&T Bank and produced by  Leadership Anne Arundel (LAA) to recognize community leaders and LAA graduates. Join us as we talk with guests about what makes resourceful, informed, and proactive leaders, and how various leaders can come together to create a more vibrant county. 

In this episode, host Kris Valerio Shock sits down with Chanel Compton Johnson, mixed-media artist, Executive Director of the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum, and graduate of Leadership Anne Arundel's Flagship Class of 2022.

Chanel shares her journey growing up in Bridgeport, Connecticut and her path to leading Maryland's official museum of African American history, reflecting on the mentors, moments, and mindset shifts that shaped her career. Together, they explore the power of saying "yes" to opportunity, the importance of reflection in leadership, and how creativity can serve as a tool for connection, healing, and community impact.

The conversation highlights the value of embracing fear, building authentic relationships, and leading with intention. Listeners will walk away with meaningful insights and inspiration for leading with purpose, especially when creating change through culture, storytelling, and service.

We'd like to thank M&T Bank for their ongoing commitment to the community and Leadership Anne Arundel.