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Ep. 7 - Leading Locally: Purpose, Grit, and Change with Aaron Polkey
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In this powerful episode of Lead Through It, Kim Andrews and Jada Willis sit down with Aaron Polkey, President and CEO of the Palmetto Project and candidate for Charleston City Council District 4.
Aaron shares his journey from Charleston native to civil rights attorney to nonprofit leader, and why he felt called to return home to create lasting change. He opens up about what it means to lead through unexpected challenges, from navigating leadership transitions at Palmetto Project to rebuilding trust in community systems.
Listeners will hear Aaron’s inspiring philosophy on “looking local”, focusing on practical, people-centered solutions that make government work better for everyone. He also shares a vulnerable “lead through it” moment about inheriting a struggling program and transforming crisis into resilience through hands-on leadership and humility.
From civic engagement and housing equity to early bedtimes and morning discipline, Aaron’s authenticity, humor, and dedication to South Carolina shine through every word.
Resources Mentioned:
- Palmetto Project
- AaronPolkey.com
- FedFam (Substack + Facebook Community)
If today’s conversation resonated, connect with us and be part of the community of leaders who refuse to lead alone.
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