In this conversation, Dr. Jason Smith, the department chair for Human Performance and Sports Science at Tennessee State University, shares his insights on leadership, education, and career development. He introduces the concept of the 'Eight P's' of leadership, which include policy, procedure, professionalism, productivity, passion, purpose, pride, and positivity. Dr. Smith emphasizes the importance of teaching professionalism and soft skills to students, guiding them through career transitions, and fostering an inclusive environment in academia. He discusses the realities of the job market and the significance of mentorship and networking in helping students navigate their career paths. The conversation concludes with reflections on conflict resolution and the application of the Eight P's beyond academia.

Key Takeaways

• Teaching professionalism and soft skills is crucial for student success.
• Career development should start early in students' academic journeys.
• Networking and internships are key to career transitions.
• Understanding job market realities helps students set realistic expectations.
• Diversity and inclusion are essential in academic environments.
• Positive engagement can significantly impact student motivation.
• Conflict resolution requires open communication and accountability.
• Mentorship plays a vital role in guiding students' career paths.
• The Eight P's can be applied in various aspects of life beyond academia.

About Dr. Jason Smith

My name is Jason Smith, and my story is deeply rooted in Nashville, TN. Growing up in a diverse, multicultural environment gave me a unique perspective and the ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

My Journey & Philosophy

For twelve years, I had the privilege of serving as a coach and Athletic Director within the Metropolitan Nashville Public School System. That time was foundational, not just for my career, but for me as a person. Building lasting relationships with my student-athletes taught me the true meaning of empathy and strength, and it cemented my core belief in servant leadership.

My goal has always been to light a fire in people, not under them. My passion is empowering future teachers, coaches, and mentors to find their own paths to success.

A Decade at TSU & Looking Forward

In 2012, I brought this passion to the collegiate level at Tennessee State University, and it's been an incredible decade of growth! Here, I've focused on providing strategic leadership and building a vibrant, collaborative community among our students, staff, and academic departments. As the Department Chair of the Human Performance and Sport Sciences and my extensive background as a coach and athletic director, combining administrative leadership with my passion for student success. Whether on or off campus, my mission is to create programs that foster success for everyone.

I'm still bringing a full tank of positive energy to every teaching and learning environment, and I couldn't be more excited to continue creating opportunities for the next generation.

Contact: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jason-smith-7b6b8290/

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In this conversation, Bernie Youngblood discusses the evolving landscape of corporate culture, emphasizing the importance of wellness as a foundational element rather than a mere perk. He explores the impact of COVID-19 on work dynamics, the necessity of integrating kindness and empathy into leadership, and the role of AI in innovation. Youngblood also highlights the significance of emotional intelligence and trust within teams, advocating for a cultural transformation that prioritizes human connection and long-term commitment over short-term metrics.

Key Takeaways

• Wellness should be seen as infrastructure, not a perk.
• COVID-19 has changed the perception of the traditional work model.
• AI's success relies on the human element for creativity and innovation.
• Creating a culture of kindness is essential for employee retention.
• Fortune 500 companies can learn from smaller organizations and startups.
• Building trust within teams requires moving past hierarchy and titles.
• Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership.
• Cultural transformation takes time and consistency.
• Metrics should reflect real human impact, not just numbers.
• Leaders should actively show appreciation to their teams.

About Bernie Youngblood

This episode’s guest is Bernie Youngblood, CEO of ThinkPartners and host of the "Unboxing the Office Podcast," where he explores the intersections of culture, connection, and creativity inside the modern workplace. Bernie’s a lifelong entrepreneur with a passion for helping leaders see beyond the spreadsheets—into the human systems that make organizations thrive. Through ThinkPartners, he works with companies and creators who believe business can be both purposeful and profitable. His approach blends strategy, storytelling, and heart, all rooted in one belief: clarity and empathy aren’t soft skills—they’re leadership essentials.

Contact: https://linktr.ee/bernieyoungblood

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Why are so many teams stuck in reaction mode? Why do so many leaders confuse managing tasks with actually leading people? In this episode, Dr. Nashay Lowe sits down with organizational change strategist Alexis Felton, founder of Alter EQ, to unpack the hidden costs of values-misaligned leadership—and why most workplace friction isn’t a skills gap, it’s a care gap. Together, they explore the psychology of resistance, the emotional toll of misalignment, and the simple but radical truth that leadership begins with how you show up, not what you know. From corporate burnout to authentic connection, this conversation reframes change management as a human practice: one built on empathy, intentionality, and the courage to lead with care—even when it’s inconvenient. If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly putting out fires, questioning your impact, or wondering why good ideas stall inside good organizations, this episode will help you reset your definition of leadership—from control to compassion, and from reaction to rhythm.

Key Takeaways

• Authenticity is crucial for effective leadership.
• Genuine care involves listening and responding to employees' needs.
• Balancing professionalism with personal connection enhances workplace culture.
• Vulnerability in leadership fosters trust and collaboration.
• Feedback should be viewed as a gift, not criticism.
• Emotional intelligence is as important as technical competence in leadership.
• Creating a supportive environment encourages open communication.
• Resistance to change often stems from a lack of ownership.
• Engagement surveys are only valuable if acted upon.
• Personalizing leadership approaches can improve team dynamics.

About Alexis Felton

Global Program Leader with a proven record of driving strategic initiatives and building high-performing cross-functional teams in fast-paced environments. Expertise spans Project & Portfolio Management (PPM), change management, and delivering transformative solutions that enhance customer engagement. Strong communicator committed to inclusive leadership and continuous improvement.

At Smartsheet, I'm a Sr. Solutions Specialist, PPM & Transformation, where I've driven GTM initiatives that influenced over $100M in ARR through compelling use case demonstrations. I empower cross-functional teams to elevate solutions and solve complex customer challenges, enhancing Smartsheet's PPM credibility. I've also executed Customer Success programs with 90%+ CSAT.

With an MSOD (4.0 GPA) and PgMP, PMP, and Six Sigma Green Belt certifications, I bring a strong theoretical and practical foundation to program leadership. I'm passionate about leveraging my skills to drive organizational success through strategic partnerships and a focus on continuous improvement. Proud board member of Black at Smartsheet, championing inclusivity.

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