What does it really mean to lead with empathy, resilience, and cultural awareness? It’s not something you learn from a textbook, it’s something you learn through experience, discomfort, and showing up when everything feels unfamiliar. True leadership, especially across cultures, begins with understanding yourself in unfamiliar environments.

In this episode, we sit down with Vanderbilt Owen Graduate School of Management alum Andy van Ark to explore how life across continents shaped his unique leadership style.

From growing up in South Africa to navigating life in Germany, the U.S., and Australia, Andy’s story goes far beyond boardrooms and job titles. We dive into the personal growth that happens through culture shock, international relocation, and adapting to new norms, both in everyday life and in how you lead others.

Andy unpacks the identity shift that comes with being a third culture kid, and how those early experiences fueled his career development and taught him the value of listening before leading. You'll also hear about how cross-cultural communication skills shaped his view on global leadership, and why cultural adaptability is non-negotiable in today’s world.

If you’re dreaming of working overseas or simply want to lead with more heart and clarity, Andy’s reflections on belonging and purpose will hit home.

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https://business.vanderbilt.edu/

Do you want to grow into a confident, grounded leader during your MBA? Are you looking for clarity, consistency, and purpose in how you lead? Curious how others have used their time at business school to develop real-world leadership skills?

This episode will show you what’s possible through leadership development.

In this special episode of One Thousand Ways To Lead, former host Reid Chauvin passes the mic to new host Maree Smith as they reflect on Reid’s leadership journey at Vanderbilt Owen. Reid shares how he went from overextended and approval-seeking to focused and grounded in intentional leadership. Through real-life stories and honest reflection, he reveals what helped him recalibrate and start leading with purpose.

You’ll hear how Reid learned to trust others, delegate under pressure, and build a reliable support system, all while managing a demanding MBA schedule. We talk about the unexpected challenges that shaped his path, including illness and project deadlines, and how he developed true resilience in leadership.

Reid also opens up about the power of peer mentorship, the impact of consistent executive coaching, and how each contributed to his personal and professional leadership growth throughout the MBA experience.

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https://business.vanderbilt.edu/

Are you still figuring out how to lead in team projects, internship roles, or early career settings? Wondering how to stay grounded in your authentic self as you step into new responsibilities?

In this special handoff episode of One Thousand Ways To Lead, departing host Brianna Dacey passes the mic to Melissa Ortiz, who’s stepping in as one of the new hosts. Their conversation marks the transition between cohorts and dives deep into leadership development, community building, and what it really takes to grow as a leader.

Brianna reflects on what she’s learned from co-hosting the show, having real conversations with alumni, and navigating her consulting internship. She shares how building relationships through the alumni network and showing up with transparency in leadership shaped her confidence and career clarity.

Whether you’re preparing for a career pivot, exploring your values, or learning how to lead through complex workplace dynamics, this episode offers a grounded take on leadership growth. You'll hear actionable leadership insights and advice for building your decision-making skills as you grow.

Expect relatable leadership stories and a fresh wave of inspiration for your personal growth and professional growth journey.

Listen in!

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Learn more about us:

https://business.vanderbilt.edu/