Rise Up and Lead: Real Lessons, Real Stories, Real Talk

In this episode of Rise Up and Lead: Real Lessons, Real Stories, Real Talk, Dr. Kim sits down with Dr. Shanae Herron, Director of Federal Programs, to explore what it truly means to lead with clarity, integrity, and data.Dr. Herron shares her unconventional journey from higher education to an uncertified high school English teacher—and how building strong relationships with students led to exceptional outcomes. As her leadership responsibilities expanded to the district and state levels, she learned that effective leadership requires more than passion or instinct.At the state level, Dr. Herron faced a critical leadership challenge when a program she oversaw began to fail. Through that experience, she developed a powerful leadership stance: decisions must be grounded in data, not opinion.This episode challenges leaders to move beyond “I think” and “I feel” and instead lead with evidence, documentation, and integrity—especially when making difficult decisions.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

In this episode of Rise Up and Lead: Real Lessons, Real Stories, Real Talk, Dr. Kim sits down with Tonika McElvin, a clinical mental health counselor working with women in recovery.Tonika shares how she initially resisted the idea of being a leader. Like many professionals in helping fields, she entered her work simply wanting to support others. But over time, she realized that when people depend on you for guidance, perspective, and encouragement, leadership naturally emerges.Through her work in a residential rehabilitation program, Tonika helps women develop emotional regulation and healthier thinking patterns using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Along the way, she discovered that leadership is not always about titles—it often grows out of responsibility, compassion, and the willingness to show up for others.This conversation explores the moment when helping others becomes something more: leadership through influence, accountability, and care.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

Ever felt like you didn’t set out to lead, but leadership found you anyway? In this episode, I sit down with Starlene Aydlett, whose journey from first-generation college graduate with a criminal justice degree to school counselor, and eventually to unexpected school leader, offers a powerful look at how growth often emerges from the moments we least expect. Together, we unpack the surprises, struggles, and small victories that come with inheriting leadership, from navigating challenging transitions to finding confidence with the help of supportive mentors.Starlene shares how her experiences in criminal justice and mental health counseling shaped her perspective, ultimately leading to a role where she discovered the importance of seeing and hearing others. We discuss the challenges of moving from colleague to authority, building trust and influence, and the lessons learned when you’re called to lead before you feel ready. You’ll hear about the courage it takes to step out of your comfort zone, why authenticity matters, and how the best leaders focus on giving people what they truly need to thrive.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

What happens when leadership finds you before you feel ready? In this episode, Ellarese Harvey opens up about her unexpected journey into leadership and how saying “yes” to a challenge she didn’t seek became the turning point for her personal and spiritual growth.Ellarese shares how being asked to serve as a worship leader forced her to confront self-doubt and imposter syndrome, ultimately revealing strengths she didn’t know she had. Through faith, mentorship, and perseverance, she learned that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about influence, service, and the courage to grow through discomfort.We explore how Ellarese balances her many roles as a university professional, fitness instructor, and worship leader, and how each has shaped her understanding of purpose and community. This episode is a reminder that leadership often begins where comfort ends—and that the most powerful leaders are those who rise with authenticity, humility, and faith.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

What if the courage to lead started with leaving your comfort zone and discovering your calling in the process? In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer Barker, an experienced educator and teacher coach, to explore how the most impactful leadership moments often begin with unexpected opportunities and leaps of faith. Together, we dive into why leadership is about influence, not titles, and how personal identity and core values are at the heart of authentic leadership.Jennifer shares insight from her 23-year journey in education, opening up about how becoming a mother inspired her to pursue teaching, and how mentors and supportive colleagues helped her navigate challenging transitions. We talk about what it’s like to build trust in unfamiliar spaces, the importance of kindness and collaboration, and how bringing others along on your growth journey makes all the difference. Whether you’re just starting out or trying to decide on your next move, this episode gives you practical insights and encouragement to help you embrace growth and lift others as you lead.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonGrab your FREE Meeting Strategies GuideCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

What does it really look like to be enlisted into leadership from the beginning, and how do you find your place in an organization that helps you grow? In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Lewis as he shares his journey from being promoted at 18 to manage a department at Target, to launching a Starbucks on a Marine Corps base, and ultimately guiding talent development in a major healthcare system. Stephen opens up about the mentors who shaped him, the safe spaces that allowed him to take risks, and the evolving meaning of “leadership” as he moved across industries.Together, we explore how intentional development and a strong, supportive culture play a massive role in retention and satisfaction, and why being able to find your voice is such a critical part of growing as a leader. Whether you’re figuring out if you fit your current workplace or searching for an environment where you can thrive, Stephen’s story offers practical advice and firsthand insight into what makes leadership growth possible at every stage.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonGrab your FREE Meeting Strategies GuideCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

What does it mean to lead from the middle, and how do everyday actions shape the leader you become? In this episode, I’m joined by Brian Sepe, a leader who has mastered the art of influence from the “middle out,” whether that’s in schools, on the baseball field, or in mentoring roles. We dig into why crafting your own mission, revisiting your values regularly, and acting with intentionality matter more than the title you hold. We explore how a bias toward action, relentless curiosity, and the willingness to be vulnerable fuel real growth, not just for ourselves, but for everyone we serve. Brian is sharing lessons on adaptive leadership, why culture is the make-or-break element for coaching and change, and how learning loops - experimentation, feedback, and iteration - can transform your journey. Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

Ever wondered how a simple conversation can change your leadership path? In this episode, I’m joined by an amazing guest, Dr. David Gaston, whose journey shows that leadership often finds you. We share stories of mentors who saw leadership potential before we did, and discuss how personal identity and values shape our growth.We explore how emotional intelligence, rather than technical skills or authority, is what truly shapes effective leadership as you take on higher leadership roles. Dr. Gaston shares how integrating our personal and professional selves fosters authentic leadership, and why skills like deep listening and vulnerability matter. If you want practical insights on how relationships and self-awareness transform your leadership, this episode is for you!Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

What happens when leadership isn’t tied to a title, but to who you are and the values you stand on? In this episode, I sit down with Monica Richardson, whose journey from health and wellness to federal contracting shows how embracing change can open unexpected doors. Monica shares what it’s like to step into a brand-new field, lead from the middle, and stay grounded through a major learning curve.We also dive into the influence of family, the power of emotional intelligence, and why showing up with authenticity matters, especially when things get challenging. If you’re navigating transition or looking to reconnect with your “why,” this episode is packed with real-life encouragement to help you rise up and lead with confidence.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

We know that real leadership isn't just about titles, and sometimes, the call to lead sneaks up on you before you feel ready! In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Leon Edwards to explore his journey of becoming a truly impactful and transformational leader. His path through education, technology, and mentorship reveals how leadership grows when someone sees potential in you and gives you the chance to step up, even if you don’t fully see it in yourself yet.Dr. Edwards shares how self-criticism and external affirmation have shaped his journey and the powerful impact it can have when someone believes in you enough to encourage you to step up before you feel ready. You’ll hear how transformational leaders listen with intention, invest in the growth of those around them, and help others continue to grow beyond the boundaries of their own classroom or team. If you are wanting to make real connections and real impact as a leader, this episode is a must listen!Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

Have you ever realized that the best lessons in leadership come from both the great and not-so-great leaders you’ve experienced? In this episode, I’m joined by Kathleen Pietrasanta, a lifelong educator and leader, to talk about the powerful impact that real-life leadership examples can have on your own development. Kathleen shares stories from her years in education, including experiences that tested her boundaries, inspired her confidence, and ultimately propelled her into leadership. Kathleen and I discuss how our personal and professional identities blend to influence the kind of leaders we strive to become as well as the importance of integrity and empathy in leadership. Kathleen shares lessons she’s learned through her experiences and offers real, practical insight for anyone who wants to lead with more heart and impact. Whether you’re just stepping into leadership or if you’ve been on this path for a while, this conversation will leave you feeling encouraged to continue to grow on your leadership journey.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

In this episode of Rise Up and Lead, we are continuing to hear from incredible leaders who found themselves enlisted to lead. Today, I’m joined by Natalie Street to hear about her journey into leadership. With 17 years in education, Natalie has worn just about every hat, including teacher, coach, admin, and now instructional coordinator. Natalie is sharing how her parents, mentors, and colleagues “enlisted” her to lead before she even thought she was ready. She also dives into how her family influenced her drive to succeed, and that leadership is shaped through experiences, mistakes, and the people who push us forward. Natalie’s story shows us what it truly means to rise, lead, and keep growing into who we’re becoming.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

What does it really mean to be tapped for leadership before you feel ready? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. John Hodge to unpack real stories behind becoming a leader.. We dive into moments when others saw our potential before we did, the lessons learned from being handed responsibility, and why real influence goes beyond any title.We’re exploring how emotional intelligence grows with each new challenge, the value of being both inquisitive and coachable, and why true leadership is about serving and supporting others. Whether you’re leading a classroom or a district, this episode unpacks why leadership is about action, trust, and helping others grow and will challenge you to rethink what it means to rise up and lead with humility.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

What if one conversation could shift your purpose and set you on a whole new path toward leadership? In this episode, I’m joined by Jesse Field, whose powerful story of being “enlisted to lead” by his beloved aunt reveals how those who truly know us can sometimes spark a lifelong calling we didn’t yet see in ourselves.We explore the turning points that shaped Jesse’s journey as a teacher and mentor, the impact of family, faith, and community, and the idea that leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about the influence you have every day. Jesse shares what it means to carry the “backpack of responsibility,” why finding your strengths matters, and how leadership isn’t about arriving but about becoming, growing, and choosing to lead with authenticity.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to grow as a leader, beyond just improving your skills or chasing a new title? In this episode, I’m diving deep into what leadership development truly means, why it’s not just about what you do, but about who you’re becoming, and how shaping your identity is key to becoming someone who can truly inspire and influence others.I’ll be sharing personal stories and lessons from my own journey, along with insights from my research, to unpack how everyday moments can shape your leadership identity. We’re looking at what it means to own your impact, why bringing your whole self to leadership matters, and how authentic relationships can elevate your influence.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

Have you ever wondered if leaders are born or made? In this episode, I’m busting the myth that leadership is something you’re born with. Real leadership is built over time, through trial and error, reflection, and the courage to keep showing up even when it’s hard.I’m walking you through some of my own defining moments and what my research has uncovered about how leaders actually grow. We’re diving into why you don’t need a title to lead, how self-efficacy can change everything, and why it’s just as important to learn from bad leadership as it is to learn from great leaders. If you’ve ever doubted whether you’re “leadership material,” this conversation will remind you that it’s not about being a “born leader,” it’s about staying curious, hungry, and committed to becoming the best leader you can be.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

Let’s be clear about something, leadership is not about your position. I know that may go against much of what we have been told but I believe it is so important for us to recognize that leadership goes beyond your title. In this episode, I’m setting the record straight and empowering you to recognize the true power of influence and impact in any role, no matter your title or job description.I’m diving into the difference between positional power and personal power, exploring what research says about influence, and offering practical tools for leading without official authority. I also dive into how shared leadership can unlock potential in everyone as well as actionable steps to help you own your impact regardless of your title.Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn

Leadership isn’t just about strategy or execution, it’s about emotional intelligence. In this episode, we’re digging into the real work of leadership including understanding yourself, managing your reactions, reading the room, and building trust through authentic relationships.I’m walking you through the four key components of emotional intelligence and sharing real, practical strategies that you can use right now. Whether you’re leading a team or leading yourself, this episode will remind you that emotional intelligence isn’t a trait you’re born with, it’s a skill you build. Connect with Dr. Kim RichardsonCheck out her websiteFollow her on Instagram @drkimleadershipFollow her on TikTok @drkimleadershipFollow her in X @drkimleadershipLike her page on FacebookConnect with her on LinkedIn