On this episode of Leadership Unscripted with Dr. Greg Steely, we’re joined by Claire Painter, Associate Director of Student Leadership at the University of Central Oklahoma. Claire leads and shapes high-impact programs including the President’s Leadership Council, Leaders of Tomorrow, TEDxUCO, and the Nigh Leadership Academy, equipping students to lead with purpose, clarity, and conviction.

In this conversation, Claire unpacks what it really means to develop student leaders in today’s world. From understanding how Gen Z defines leadership and purpose, to building transformational experiences that extend beyond the classroom, she shares practical insight into how young leaders grow into individuals who influence systems, not just spaces. She also challenges common misconceptions about leadership and highlights the ongoing importance of servant leadership in higher education.

As institutions and organizations look to prepare the next generation, this conversation offers a grounded, forward-looking perspective on leadership development that lasts. Watch or listen now to Leadership Unscripted.

Leadership Unscripted is brought to you by Growing Leaders a program of the Maxwell Leadership Foundation. Learn more about Growing Leaders at Growingleaders.com and Maxwell Leadership Foundation by Visiting Maxwellleadership.org

Leadership at scale requires more than position, it requires influence that carries across roles, sectors, and seasons. Todd G. Lamb, President of the University of Central Oklahoma, brings a rare perspective shaped by service as a U.S. Secret Service agent, Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma, and now as a university leader impacting thousands of students.

Joining Dr. Greg Steely on Leadership Unscripted, President Lamb shares how influence shows up in real leadership moments. From the B.R.O.N.C.H.O. Way to leading through complexity, he unpacks how consistent principles guide decision-making across government and higher education. The conversation also explores what it means to lead when alignment isn’t guaranteed and how leaders can still move people and systems forward.

For leaders navigating responsibility, collaboration, and long-term impact, this conversation offers a clear and grounded perspective on influence in action.

Leadership Unscripted is brought to you by Growing Leaders a program of the Maxwell Leadership Foundation. Learn more about Growing Leaders at Growingleaders.com and Maxwell Leadership Foundation by Visiting Maxwellleadership.org

In this episode of Leadership Unscripted, Dr. Greg Steely is joined by Adam Pugh, Oklahoma State Senator and Chairman of the Senate Education Committee. Senator Pugh’s leadership journey spans military service in the United States Air Force, the private sector, and public office, giving him a grounded perspective on responsibility and service.

The conversation centers on what it means to lead when decisions carry real consequences for students, teachers, and families. Senator Pugh reflects on education policy as stewardship, how conviction and collaboration must work together, and why keeping students at the center matters even inside complex political systems.

At a time when public trust and long-term thinking are essential, this episode offers a clear look at leadership rooted in service, discipline, and accountability.

Leadership Unscripted is brought to you by Growing Leaders a program of the Maxwell Leadership Foundation. Learn more about Growing Leaders at Growingleaders.com and Maxwell Leadership Foundation by Visiting Maxwellleadership.org