Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership

Schmidt Associates

From navigating everyday team operations to carrying maximum impact in the boardroom, visionary leaders have used their experiences to create success. Listen to Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership as the Schmidt Associates’ team speaks with executives and leadership experts to uncover their achievements, watershed moments, and the turning points that have shaped their careers. Along the way, you’ll hear about their influences, discover what it takes to build strength and stability at the top, and learn lessons anyone in business can appreciate.

  1. MAR 5

    Foundations + Futures: The 1970s with Dean Illingworth

    In this first chapter of Foundations + Futures: By the Decade, we travel back to 1976—when Schmidt Associates was born from a bold idea, one chair, two employees, and a deep belief that architecture should serve people first. Dean Illingworth, a longtime Schmidt Associates team member and firsthand witness to the firm's earliest days, joins host Sarah Hempstead to bring the 1970s to life. From hand-drafted drawings on repurposed doors to animal safaris for third graders, Dean shares the stories that reveal who Wayne Schmidt was—not just as a founder, but as a leader who practiced servant leadership long before it had a name. Listeners will hear about: The real story behind "one chair, two employees"—and the doors that became drafting tablesHow a staged job interview landed Dean his first day at the firm (and why he was left alone in the office)The Hammond Block, Mass Ave, and the birth of the firm's historic preservation expertiseThe restoration of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument—a project that shaped the firm's identity and its place in IndianapolisThe roots of Schmidt's K–12 education practice and early community-centered workThis decade was about conviction—showing up for communities, leading with empathy, and building something bigger than a business. The 1970s gave Schmidt Associates its DNA, and you can still feel it today. 🔗 Subscribe and follow us at @SchmidtAssociates on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook. #WeAreSchmidt

    23 min

  2. JAN 29

    Flipping the Script: Sarah Hempstead on Legacy and Leadership

    In this special anniversary series episode, we’re flipping the script—Sarah Hempstead, CEO of Schmidt Associates and host of Luminate, takes the guest seat to reflect on legacy, leadership, and what it means to carry a vision forward. As Schmidt Associates celebrates 50 years—and honors 100 years of Arrasmith history in Kentucky—Sarah shares the story behind her architectural journey, the values that drew her to the firm, and the pivotal moments that shaped her approach to servant leadership. From her earliest design inspirations to navigating the transition to CEO, this conversation explores how thoughtful preparation, collaboration, and curiosity have defined both her path and the firm’s evolution. Listeners will hear about: Finding purpose in architecture through travel, education, and mentorshipLeading through uncertainty and the lessons learned from unexpected challengesPreserving culture while adapting for growth during leadership transitionThe importance of inclusive, ego-free design rooted in community impactThis episode sets the stage for Foundations + Futures: By the Decade, a special anniversary series exploring the people, projects, and decisions that built our past—and the vision shaping our future. 🔗 Subscribe and follow us at @SchmidtAssociates on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook. #WeAreSchmidt

    23 min

  3. 12/10/2025

    Episode 37: Showing Up Matters: How Dr. Travis Madison Leads with Heart and Clarity

    Few roles demand more heart, humility, and resolve than leading a public school district.  In this episode, CEO Sarah Hempstead sits down with Dr. Travis Madison, superintendent of New Albany Floyd County Schools, for a candid conversation about leadership rooted in purpose—and the power of showing up for students, staff, and the community every day. With nearly three decades in education, Dr. Madison offers the perspective of someone who has served at every level—from the English classroom to the superintendent’s office. He reflects on how coaching shaped his leadership style, why visibility and trust matter more than ever, and how career education can serve as a powerful equalizer for students across the district. Listeners will explore: Empathy and consistency as foundations for effective school leadershipVisibility, relationships, and trust as drivers of districtwide successCareer education access and how programs like Prosser prepare students for life beyond the classroomDistrict alignment and the strategies behind building systems that support long-term impactWhether he’s cheering on students at an evening event or navigating big-picture strategy, Dr. Madison leads with an unwavering commitment to doing what’s best for kids. 🔗 Subscribe and follow us at @SchmidtAssociates on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

    32 min

  4. 11/12/2025

    Episode 36: Tuned to Serve—Wendy Muston on Arts Advocacy and Community Leadership

    In this insightful episode, CEO Sarah Hempstead sits down with Wendy Muston—concert harpist and former school board president—for a conversation about leadership, service, and the lasting impact of the arts in education. With a career that spans international concert halls and 25 years of public service in The Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township, Wendy shares how her experiences as a musician shaped her leadership style and fueled her advocacy for equitable arts education. From navigating challenges on stage to leading through a pandemic, her story is one of resilience, integrity, and a deep commitment to community. Listeners will hear about: Developing a music career with adaptability and purposeLeading without a personal agenda—and why that mattersAdvocating for early instrumental education as a foundation for equityDrawing leadership lessons from orchestral collaborationThis episode is a powerful reminder that creative disciplines can build the skills leaders need most: empathy, collaboration and the ability to listen with intent. 🔗 Subscribe and follow us at @SchmidtAssociates on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

    43 min

  5. 10/01/2025

    Episode 35: Leading Where You’re Planted—The Story of Dan Robison

    In this inspiring episode of Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership, guest host Audra Blasdel speaks with Dan Robison, director of the Jackson County Chamber, about returning home, building ecosystems, and leading rural transformation through connection and creativity. After nearly two decades in Florida, Robison made the bold decision to return to Seymour, Indiana—just days before the pandemic hit. What followed was a reimagining of community leadership rooted in servant leadership, entrepreneurship, and a relentless belief in the power of people. Listeners will hear about: The journey from big-box retail to rural innovationRebuilding trust and energy in a hometown communityWhy “being a connector” is a leadership superpowerThe bold vision behind the Spark Shop and rural entrepreneurshipTurning perceived disadvantages into strategic advantagesLeading through uncertainty—and staying grounded in purposeWith humor, honesty, and a deep sense of mission, Robison shares how returning home became his greatest act of leadership—and how building supportive ecosystems can unlock opportunity for generations to come. 🔗 Subscribe and follow us at @SchmidtAssociates on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

    36 min

  6. 09/03/2025

    Episode 34: Purpose-Driven Change at Butler University's Founders College with Dr. Carolyn Gentle-Genitty

    In this inspiring episode, CEO Sarah Hempstead sits down with Dr. Carolyn Gentle-Genitty, inaugural dean of Founders College at Butler University, to explore how visionary leadership and lived experience are reshaping access to higher education. Dr. Gentle-Genitty shares her journey from growing up in Belize to serving as dean of a bold new college model designed for high-ability, low-wealth students. With stories that span grassroots youth leadership, systemic change in U.S. higher education, and her role in leading a program built on access, equity and purpose, this conversation is a masterclass in servant leadership, innovation and resilience. Listeners will hear about: Designing academic spaces with intentionality and belongingRemoving barriers to student success through policy and practiceThe power of mentorship, storytelling and showing upHow education can shape better citizens, not just better careersThis episode is more than a conversation. It is a call to design boldly, lead with purpose and make space for those too often left behind. 🔗 Subscribe and follow us at @SchmidtAssociates on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

    1h 31m

  7. 08/06/2025

    Episode 33: Building a New Bench of Women Leaders: UIndy President Tanuja Singh on Impact and Access

    In this episode of Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership, host Sarah Hempstead speaks with Dr. Tanuja Singh, president of the University of Indianapolis. Dr. Singh shares her extraordinary journey from particle physics in India to purposeful leadership in higher education. She discusses the importance of belonging, mentorship, and preparing the next generation of women leaders—offering a candid and inspiring look at what it means to lead with empathy, curiosity and conviction. Key highlights: From particle physics to people-centered leadership Singh began her career in science, but discovered her true calling in higher education—where she could make a personal impact. “I liked particles, but I liked people better,” she said.Parental support and early empowerment Raised in a household that valued independence and education, Singh credits her father—a self-described feminist—for instilling in her the belief that she could do anything.Creating community and belonging Her decision to attend Millsaps College in Mississippi was shaped by a sense of personal connection. That same value of caring deeply for individuals now informs her leadership at UIndy.Empowering women leaders through action Singh helped launch the Women’s Executive Leadership Institute, a program rooted in mentorship, skill-building and support for emerging women leaders across industries in Indiana.Reimagining lifelong learning Through UIndy Online and the CS Institute, Singh is championing accessible, real-world education for adults seeking to reskill or upskill in today’s rapidly changing workforce.Curiosity as a leadership imperative Singh underscores the role of curiosity in personal and professional growth. “Higher education is where your mind learns to be resilient, adaptable and imaginative,” she said.A global perspective on education and equity Singh calls for renewed investment in U.S. higher education, warning that countries like India and China are rapidly advancing their research and experiential learning infrastructures.Leading with purpose—one student at a time Singh’s legacy is rooted in helping others discover their potential. Whether it’s a student gaining confidence or a professional finding their voice, her mission is to inspire belief in what’s possible.Recharge through travel and reflection A passionate traveler, Singh finds joy in exploring new cultures—and sees it as a way to better understand shared human values.Singh also shares two compelling reads: Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver, and In Case of Emergency, Break Glass, a book about finding calm and clarity in an overstimulated digital world. This episode is a must-listen for educators, leaders, and anyone committed to building a more inclusive, curious, and purpose-driven future. Hear how Dr. Tanuja Singh is shaping the future of higher education—one meaningful connection at a time. Subscribe to Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership to stay inspired and informed!

    33 min

  8. 07/16/2025

    Growing with Westfield: Leadership, Legacy and the Power of Community

    In this episode of Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership, host Sarah Hempstead sits down with Matthew Deck, Director of Facilities and Events for the City of Westfield, Indiana and Audra Blasdel, Waypoint Strategies Division Lead. Deck shares how his deep-rooted love for community, inspired by his mother and mentors like former mayor Andy Cook, has shaped his leadership journey. From overseeing Grand Park—one of the largest sports complexes in the U.S.—to planning community-defining events and fostering a culture of service, Deck speaks candidly about the values that drive him. He reflects on personal growth, public service, and the importance of building spaces that bring people together. Key highlights: Lessons in servant leadership: Deck recalls how witnessing leaders pick up trash or organize roadside cleanups instilled in him a humble, action-oriented approach.Grand Park’s transformation and future: What started as a bold idea now draws over 5 million visitors annually. Deck shares how the park is reshaping Westfield’s identity and economy.Investing in the next generation: From scholarships to mentorship, Deck emphasizes the importance of giving back and encouraging young people to love and serve their city.Balancing passion and purpose: Whether organizing large-scale events or raising daughters who understand the power of a simple thank-you, Deck brings intention to everything he does.Advice for aspiring public leaders: Love your city, surround yourself with good people and stay physically and mentally strong. Leadership starts with showing up—authentically and consistently.Tune in for a conversation that will inspire anyone who believes in the power of community, creativity and committed leadership to shape a brighter future. Subscribe to Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership to stay inspired and informed!

    30 min
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5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

From navigating everyday team operations to carrying maximum impact in the boardroom, visionary leaders have used their experiences to create success. Listen to Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership as the Schmidt Associates’ team speaks with executives and leadership experts to uncover their achievements, watershed moments, and the turning points that have shaped their careers. Along the way, you’ll hear about their influences, discover what it takes to build strength and stability at the top, and learn lessons anyone in business can appreciate.

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