Travel with us into the visionary world of Leonard Hoops, the president, and CEO of Visit Indy, and the driving force behind transforming Indianapolis into America’s top convention destination. From his Trinidadian roots to his rise in Indianapolis’ growing tourism industry, Leonard’s creative leadership and strategic vision have not only elevated the city on the convention map but have also cultivated a vibrant ecosystem, contributing to a nearly $6B boom.In this episode, Leonard shares his remarkable journey from a journalism and MBA graduate of San Jose State University and Santa Clara University to becoming a respected industry leader. We explore the pivotal moments and decisions that shaped his career and led him to Indianapolis.Since joining Visit Indy in 2011, Leonard has led a dynamic team of industry professionals to shatter convention and tourism sales records. Discover the strategies and initiatives that positioned this team and Indianapolis as the #1 convention city in America according to USA Today, leading to accolades from The New York Times, Conde’ Nast Traveler, and more.Leonard also shares how Visit Indy’s focus on positive workplace culture fosters team engagement and satisfaction, and he explains how recognition as a “Best Place to Work in Indiana” has bolstered team productivity. With over 35 years of travel and tourism experience, Leonard’s influence reaches far beyond Visit Indy. We discuss his extensive involvement in community and industry boards, including his roles with the U.S. Travel Association, PCMA, and more. Leonard also offers insights into how these roles have enabled him to shape the future of travel, tourism, and community development.Beyond his leadership, Leonard’s position on the Indianapolis Business Journal’s Indiana 250 list and the honor of being named an ‘Indiana Living Legend’ are celebrated, along with his vision for Tourism Tomorrow and overseeing Indy’s Destination Vision, which allows Indy to thrive as a premiere destination for conventions and tourists.Finally, from receiving the Vonnegut Humor Award to being named one of the “Top 25 Most Extraordinary Minds in Hospitality & Travel Sales & Marketing,” Leonard reflects on his entertaining personality that highlights his creative and innovative spirit.

Embark on an intimate exploration of leadership and perseverance with Mario Rodriguez, the visionary leader at the Indianapolis Airport Authority. His tale, a tapestry woven from his parents' daring escape from Cuba and their indomitable spirit to triumph in a foreign land, is nothing short of cinematic. As we chat with Mario, you'll experience the vibrant streets of Miami, where his family's dreams were recast amidst the city's cultural mosaic. His mother's reinvention as an attorney and his father's entrepreneurial rebirth sketch a portrait of resilience that sets the stage for Mario's rise in aviation leadership.Our conversation with Mario then takes flight into the complex skies of airport management, where community voices harmonize with the mechanics of commerce and crises that test the mettle of the most seasoned leaders. Discover how airports become hubs of sustainable innovation and human connection, thanks to Mario's forward-thinking initiatives. Join us for this episode, a masterclass in the art of leading with both head and heart.

How does the central Indiana arts community navigate and survive during challenging times?  Learn how as Julie Goodman, the tenacious and inspiring President and CEO of the Indianapolis Arts Council explains. Follow along as she underlines why the arts are vital to mental well-being and how they can fortify communal bonds. But the power of art extends beyond inspiration.  Hear Julie share about a transformative project from her time at the Cincinnati Opera and the impact it has had on her years later. Julie's love of the arts and her outstanding leadership are not just sources of inspiration; they are a glimpse into the profound impacts that art can have on the health of communities. So come along on this enlightening journey, and be sure to subscribe for more engaging discussions.

A seasoned architect known for his creative leadership and dedication to his craft, Steve Alspaugh, FAIA, LEED AP, B+C shares his journey from a childhood fascination with The Brady Bunch to his current role as a Design Architect|Associate. Listen to his experience working on the Franklin Township Middle School project, where he used state code as a creative tool, and learn how a devastating tornado in his hometown led him to become the Indiana State Disaster Coordinator through the American Institute of Architects Indiana chapter. Prepare to be enlightened as Steve discusses how mentorship has influenced his career and the importance of building strong relationships.Don't miss the chance to learn from Steve who has shaped landmarks and careers. Hear about his adventures navigating design challenges, the inspirations that feed his creativity, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. This is a conversation that not only delves into the fascinating world of architecture but also offers valuable life lessons on finding your passion and building a lasting impact. Tune in for an episode filled with stories of creativity, resilience, mentorship, and passion, all while having fun along the way.

Meet Angela Britain-Smith, fondly known as ABS, the director of operations at the Metropolitan School District of Washington Township (MSD Washington Township). In our enlightening conversation with Guest Hostess and K-12 Studio Leader Anna Marie Burrell, ABS shares her journey, starting as a librarian and transitioning into a leader handling facilities management, food services, and safety. Her experiences emphasize the power of mentorship, communication, and prioritizing what's best for children.Our discussion also reveals how a passed referendum revolutionized MSD of Washington Township. ABS enlightens us on the enormous transformations that followed, including expanded program capacities, enhanced security, new furniture, and more. ABS also discusses the challenges the district would have faced if the referendum hadn't passed. We round up with ABS underscoring the importance of equity in K-12 education, the impact of mentorship programs for students, and the vital role of self-care for mental and physical well-being. A wealth of insights awaits within this episode. So, get ready to be inspired.

Imagine leading a diverse cultural, racial, and socio-economic school district serving over 16,000 students and 2,500 employees and being responsible for equal and equitable opportunities for all. When he became Superintendent for the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township in Indianapolis, Dr. Shawn Smith found himself in such a position. This episode provides a fascinating journey through Dr. Smith's storied career in K-12 education, and the leadership insights he's gained. From his early passion for social studies ignited by his grandmother's love for reading to his unexpected foray into administration, Dr. Smith's journey is a testament to the power of creative leadership.This conversation delves into how Dr. Smith champions positive community partnerships, nurtures emerging leaders, and emphasizes the importance of investing in education. As we traverse through his leadership journey, he also underlines the significance of maintaining normalcy amidst crises and fostering personal relationships. Dr. Smith's belief in the potential of every child and education as a catalyst for uncovering it paints a hopeful picture for the future of public education. So, join us for this enlightening conversation and celebrate the transformative power of education and leadership.

As the founding dean of the Marian University Klipsch Educators College, the University’s former senior vice president of strategic growth and innovation, and now as Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Ken Britt has made a significant difference on-campus through faith, fortitude, leadership, and determination. With humbleness and through hard work, he draws inspiration to find solutions from the world around him while serving as a source of encouragement to others. In this episode of Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership with Sarah Hempstead, Britt shares his own leadership journey and how owning a mission has resulted in changing the world for the better.

An innovative leader with a passion for conservation and animal wellness, Louisville Zoo director Dan Maloney believes that strong and effective leadership encourages inclusiveness and increased engagement among internal teams and the community. By pushing the envelope of what accredited zoos can accomplish and driving his teams toward strategic thinking, he’s become widely respected and influential. In this episode of Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership with Sarah Hempstead, Maloney discusses his approaches, what he’s learned, and how collectively, it’s created dynamic experiences.  

With a background in law, city government, land use, and community development, Deborah Bilitski joined Louisville’s Waterfront Park in 2018 to continue its transformation into a city treasure. While developing a premiere destination for more than 2.2M visitors and over 150 events and celebrations annually, she and her team are set to expand the park even further. In this episode, Bilitski shares her leadership journey and how she has thrived personally and professionally. 

As the Founder and CEO of the Felege Hiywot Center in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood of Indianapolis, Aster Bekele emigrated to the United States from Ethiopia and brought with her a sense of community and love. A retired chemist, Bekele started the Youth Farm Initiative, established a food production space, and continues to engage partners and inner-city youth in her work. With a focus on urban farming and cultural expression, she has been teaching young people the importance of service, leadership, teamwork, and knowledge. In this episode of Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership with Sarah Hempstead, AIA, LEED AP, Bekele shares how she made the transition to American life and how her work has contributed to a strong community.