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.

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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.

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In this inspiring episode of Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership, guest host Audra Blasdel speaks with Dan Robison, director of the Jackson County Chamber, about returning home, building ecosystems, and leading rural transformation through connection and creativity.

After nearly two decades in Florida, Robison made the bold decision to return to Seymour, Indiana—just days before the pandemic hit. What followed was a reimagining of community leadership rooted in servant leadership, entrepreneurship, and a relentless belief in the power of people.

Listeners will hear about:

• The journey from big-box retail to rural innovation
• Rebuilding trust and energy in a hometown community
• Why “being a connector” is a leadership superpower
• The bold vision behind the Spark Shop and rural entrepreneurship
• Turning perceived disadvantages into strategic advantages
• Leading through uncertainty—and staying grounded in purpose

With humor, honesty, and a deep sense of mission, Robison shares how returning home became his greatest act of leadership—and how building supportive ecosystems can unlock opportunity for generations to come.

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