In this special anniversary series episode, we’re flipping the script—Sarah Hempstead, CEO of Schmidt Associates and host of Luminate, takes the guest seat to reflect on legacy, leadership, and what it means to carry a vision forward.

As Schmidt Associates celebrates 50 years—and honors 100 years of Arrasmith history in Kentucky—Sarah shares the story behind her architectural journey, the values that drew her to the firm, and the pivotal moments that shaped her approach to servant leadership. From her earliest design inspirations to navigating the transition to CEO, this conversation explores how thoughtful preparation, collaboration, and curiosity have defined both her path and the firm’s evolution.

Listeners will hear about:

• Finding purpose in architecture through travel, education, and mentorship
• Leading through uncertainty and the lessons learned from unexpected challenges
• Preserving culture while adapting for growth during leadership transition
• The importance of inclusive, ego-free design rooted in community impact

This episode sets the stage for Foundations + Futures: By the Decade, a special anniversary series exploring the people, projects, and decisions that built our past—and the vision shaping our future.

🔗 Subscribe and follow us at @SchmidtAssociates on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook. #WeAreSchmidt

Few roles demand more heart, humility, and resolve than leading a public school district.

In this episode, CEO Sarah Hempstead sits down with Dr. Travis Madison, superintendent of New Albany Floyd County Schools, for a candid conversation about leadership rooted in purpose—and the power of showing up for students, staff, and the community every day.

With nearly three decades in education, Dr. Madison offers the perspective of someone who has served at every level—from the English classroom to the superintendent’s office. He reflects on how coaching shaped his leadership style, why visibility and trust matter more than ever, and how career education can serve as a powerful equalizer for students across the district.

Listeners will explore:

• Empathy and consistency as foundations for effective school leadership
• Visibility, relationships, and trust as drivers of districtwide success
• Career education access and how programs like Prosser prepare students for life beyond the classroom
• District alignment and the strategies behind building systems that support long-term impact

Whether he’s cheering on students at an evening event or navigating big-picture strategy, Dr. Madison leads with an unwavering commitment to doing what’s best for kids.

🔗 Subscribe and follow us at @SchmidtAssociates on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

In this insightful episode, CEO Sarah Hempstead sits down with Wendy Muston—concert harpist and former school board president—for a conversation about leadership, service, and the lasting impact of the arts in education.

With a career that spans international concert halls and 25 years of public service in The Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township, Wendy shares how her experiences as a musician shaped her leadership style and fueled her advocacy for equitable arts education. From navigating challenges on stage to leading through a pandemic, her story is one of resilience, integrity, and a deep commitment to community.

Listeners will hear about:

• Developing a music career with adaptability and purpose
• Leading without a personal agenda—and why that matters
• Advocating for early instrumental education as a foundation for equity
• Drawing leadership lessons from orchestral collaboration

This episode is a powerful reminder that creative disciplines can build the skills leaders need most: empathy, collaboration and the ability to listen with intent.

🔗 Subscribe and follow us at @SchmidtAssociates on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.