In this powerful kickoff episode of Catalysts for Change, host Adam Lister sits down with Randy Boyd — entrepreneur, education leader, and relentless change-maker — to unpack a career built on hustle, heart, and an unshakable mission to make things better.

From starting college at 16 and launching a multi-million dollar business from the back of a van, to reshaping Tennessee’s higher education landscape with bold, people-first initiatives like Tennessee Promise and the Drive to 55, Randy’s story is a masterclass in vision-driven leadership. He shares hard-earned lessons on perseverance, the art of navigating challenges with grace, and why clear, candid conversations are the real catalyst for lasting impact.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why no one can make you quit — and how Randy internalized that truth
• How entrepreneurial grit translated into groundbreaking public service
• The behind-the-scenes story of turning a big, audacious education reform dream into reality
• How clarity, candor, and community-building fuel lasting leadership
• What Randy believes could make this the greatest decade in the University of Tennessee’s history

If you’re looking for real-world inspiration on building a life of impact, staying true to your values, and leading with purpose — this conversation will light the fire.