From an outsider’s perspective, some stories look like overnight successes until you understand what it actually took to get there.

In this episode, Andy and Michelle Schwindler reflect on the journey behind Sandy Beach Lighting & Design Co., starting with a recent milestone—being featured in Masters of Landscape Lighting, a book that highlights leading designers from around the world.

They share the years of hands-on experience that shaped their path, from early work in outdoor construction to building a focused outdoor lighting company with a clear point of view. Andy and Michelle also discuss why they stay committed to their design principles, and how that consistency has led to a recognizable style.

Key Takeaways:

• Lighting should influence the design from the start
• Why great design requires conviction
• What looks like “overnight success” is built over years

Highlights:

(00:00) Recognized in the Masters of Landscape Lighting

(01:39) Why design philosophy matters

(09:16) Outdoor lighting should be planned early

(14:48) The moment that changed everything

(22:47) Building a business with purpose

(30:46) What makes a lighting project stand out

Resources:
Andy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-schwindler-963b5763/
Michelle’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-schwindler-a7a84a23a/
Sandy Beach LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sandy-beach-lighting-and-design
Sandy Beach Website: https://sandybeachoutdoor.com/

Download your own copy of “Masters of Landscape Lighting” at https://inspired.uberflip.com/i/1543281-sandy-beach-lighting-design-co/0?

All of us have the potential to lead. We don't have to wait for permission to step up and make a difference.

In this episode, Andy and Michelle Schwindler revisit their conversation with Kitty Campbell and reflect on the lessons they learned through Leadership Lafayette. They share how these insights are shaping their approach to leadership at Sandy Beach Lighting & Design, focusing on collaboration, personal growth, and guiding their team toward a shared vision.

Key takeaways:

• How to lead with purpose, integrity, and intentionality
• How confidence is built through action, not validation
• The value of collaboration and empowering others as a leader

Highlights:
(00:00) Stepping into leadership
(05:52) Doing hard things to build confidence
(09:06) Mentorship, community, and giving back
(15:09) The unwavering commitment to your vision

Resources:
Kitty’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kitty-campbell/
Leadership Lafayette Website: https://leadershiplafayette.org/
Andy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-schwindler-963b5763/
Michelle’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-schwindler-a7a84a23a/
Sandy Beach LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sandy-beach-lighting-and-design
Sandy Beach Website: https://sandybeachoutdoor.com/

Leadership isn’t about titles, but about showing up and giving back.

It’s something people often think comes with time or a title. But in many communities, it actually grows through showing up, getting involved, building relationships, and finding ways to give back.

In this episode, Andy Schwindler sits down with Kitty Campbell, Executive Director of Leadership Lafayette, to talk about how leadership takes shape through real-world experience. They share what it looks like to grow into leadership through community, how the program develops people over time, and how the Volunteer Expo creates simple ways for anyone to step in and make a difference.

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership grows through showing up and contributing
• Experience matters more than theory
• Community is built through connection and collaboration
• Everyone has the potential to lead at the right time

Highlights:
(00:00) Rethinking leadership through service
(00:14) Meet Kitty Campbell and Leadership Lafayette
(01:05) Why leadership isn’t learned in textbooks
(03:05) Overcoming self-doubt and stepping into leadership
(05:10) Understanding the depth of community impact
(06:10) How leadership programs build confidence
(09:30) Looking at root causes, not just solutions
(11:54) The story and purpose of Leadership Lafayette
(18:31) Inside the 9-month leadership journey
(20:46) How the Volunteer Expo connects people to purpose
(29:28) Creating momentum through community collaboration
(54:42) Reflections on leadership, service, and giving back

Resources:
Kitty’s LinkedIn: ​​https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kitty-campbell/
Leadership Lafayette Website: https://leadershiplafayette.org/
Andy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-schwindler-963b5763/
Michelle’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-schwindler-a7a84a23a/
Sandy Beach’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sandy-beach-lighting-and-design/
Sandy Beach’s Website: https://sandybeachoutdoor.com/