A new kind of leadership is emerging and this generation is reshaping it with empathy, cooperation, and authenticity. In this episode, Dr. Heather Penny sits down with Dr. Lisa Smith, professor at Pepperdine and author of Hammer & Fire, to explore how young leaders are redefining what it means to lead well.

Lisa shares why today’s young adults see leadership as a shared enterprise, how they value every voice at the table, and why being seen as a whole person matters more than ever. They’re skeptical of traditional authority, but when they find a leader they can trust, they show up with their whole heart.

Together, they discuss the invitation for parents, mentors, and leaders to slow down, ask better questions, and come alongside rather than fix. From navigating constant public pressure to learning courageous conversations and intelligent risk-taking, this episode highlights the challenges and the strengths of shaping the next generation.

Take a breath, stay curious, and discover what this rising generation is teaching all of us about leadership.

Step into The Life You're Made For, I'm cheering you on!
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Music & Production by Jason Squires