UNSTUCK with Tim Terrentine

Tim Terrentine
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Getting stuck is part of leading. What matters is what you do next. The UNSTUCK Podcast, hosted by Tim Terrentine, features real conversations with bold, thoughtful leaders navigating tension, transition, and growth. This isn’t a highlight reel — it’s honest dialogue about pressure, purpose, and becoming. Each episode slows the moment down, names what’s hard, and uncovers practical shifts that build traction. If you believe everybody is somebody — including you — this space is for you.

Episodes

  1. Aug 3

    UNSTUCK Podcast | From Detroit to the Doctorate — Leading Schools That Change Lives with Dr. Andraé Townsel | Episode 011

    UNSTUCK Podcast | From Detroit to the Doctorate — Leading Schools That Change Lives with Dr. Andraé Townsel | Episode 011 Some people go to school to get a degree.Dr. Andraé Townsel went to school to save a future that almost expired.In Episode 011 of UNSTUCK, Tim Terrentine sits down with Dr. Andraé Townsel, Superintendent of Hartford Public Schools, for one of the most energetic and honest conversations about education, leadership, and what it really takes to change the trajectory of a young person's life.Townsel grew up in Detroit, Michigan — a student-athlete who almost missed his moment. A football coach saw something in him, got him into Cass Technical High School, and issued a warning that changed everything: your potential has an expiration date. That wake-up call launched a journey from the sidelines to the superintendent's office — all the way through a bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree from Howard University.He's served in almost every role education has to offer: teacher, coach, dean, assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent. Wherever he's gone, he's raised the bar — and then raised it again.In this episode, you'll hear: Why your potential has an expiration date — and what to do about it How a football scholarship from Howard turned into a doctoral degree and a life's mission Why ignorance isn't bliss — it's tragedy How to lead through loneliness and let your tribe find you Why you have to work harder on yourself than on the job What belonging really looks like at the system level Why your foundation determines everything you build on top of it What The Four Agreements has to do with running a school district Why education at its best evolves — and at its worst stays closed This conversation is direct, hopeful, and packed with real wisdom for educators, coaches, leaders, and anyone who works with young people — or used to be one.Learn more at https://www.translatorscg.com/podcast.About the Guest:Dr. Andraé Townsel is the Superintendent of Hartford Public Schools in Hartford, Connecticut — one of the oldest school districts in the country. A Detroit native and Howard University doctoral alumnus, he has served in virtually every level of education and is known for his contagious commitment to student achievement, dignity, and raising the bar in every environment he enters. Connect with Dr. Townsel: LinkedIn:@dr-andraé-townsel-8233335 Instagram: @draetown X: @draetown Facebook: @Draetown Hartford Public Schools: hartfordschools.org #UnstuckPodcast #EducationLeadership #UrbanEducation #StudentAchievement #Superintendent #LeadershipDevelopment #Somebodiness #BlackLeadership #HowardUniversity #Detroit #Hartford #CoachingLeadership #Dignity #GrowthMindset #SetTheBar

  2. Jul 19

    UNSTUCK Podcast | Everything is Figure-Outable: Fixing the System Behind Special Education with Dr. Nikki Harding | Episode 010

    UNSTUCK Podcast | Everything is Figure-Outable: Fixing the System Behind Special Education with Dr. Nikki Harding | Episode 010 Description: What if the biggest challenge in special education isn’t the students… but the systems surrounding the people trying to support them? In this episode of Unstuck, Tim Terrentine sits down with Dr. Nikki Harding, founder of The Inclusive Leadership Lab, to unpack the realities of special education, teacher burnout, inclusion, and the future of educational leadership. Dr. Harding brings a perspective few people can offer—as a special education teacher, district leader, policy advocate, founder, and parent of a child with Down syndrome. This conversation goes beyond education policy.It’s about dignity, somebody-ness, and building systems that actually support people. Together they explore: Why compliance has replaced true inclusion  The hidden crisis driving special education teacher burnout  How AI can support teachers instead of replacing them  Why technology should empower educators—not overwhelm students  What happens when schools focus on deficits instead of strengths  How wraparound coaching can transform classrooms and retention  Why “everything is figure-outable” matters for families and educators alike  And maybe most importantly:👉 What it means to build educational systems that treat every student and every teacher like somebody. If you’re a parent, educator, administrator, policymaker, or someone who cares about the future of education—this episode is for you. About the Guest: Dr. Nikki Harding is the founder of The Inclusive Leadership Lab, an organization focused on transforming special education systems through leadership development, teacher coaching, AI-supported instructional tools, and innovative educator preparation programs. Her work is grounded in both professional expertise and lived experience as the parent of a child with Down syndrome. 🌐 https://theinclusiveleadershiplab.org #UnstuckPodcast #SpecialEducation #InclusiveLeadership #EducationInnovation #TeacherBurnout #AIinEducation #LeadershipDevelopment #Somebodiness #EducationLeadership #Inclusion #EducationalEquity

  3. Jul 6

    UNSTUCK Podcast | The Truth About Sales: Control, Connection & Consistency l with Nick Riashi | Episode 009

    What if everything you’ve been told about sales… is wrong? In this episode of Unstuck, Tim Terrentine sits down with sales professional Nick Riashi to break down the realities behind one of the most misunderstood careers. This isn’t about pressure tactics or closing tricks.It’s about connection, consistency, and controlling what you actually can. Nick shares his journey—from grinding as a 12-year-old caddy to becoming a top performer across industries—and unpacks the mindset that drives long-term success in sales. You’ll hear: Why sales is one of the few careers where you control your outcome  The real reason people still buy from people they like  How energy and belief directly impact your results  What separates great salespeople from average ones  How to navigate slumps—and get unstuck fast  This episode reframes sales entirely. It’s not about pushing products.It’s about building trust, showing up consistently, and owning your day. About the Guest:Nick Riashi is a seasoned sales professional known for his relationship-first approach and consistent performance across industries—from retail and automotive to high-level business development. His philosophy centers on effort, attitude, and authentic connection. #UnstuckPodcast #SalesLeadership #BusinessDevelopment #Mindset #Leadership

  4. Jun 15

    UNSTUCK Podcast | From the Neighborhood to the Boardroom — Leading With Your Blueprint with Jerry Price | Episode 008

    UNSTUCK Podcast | From the Neighborhood to the Boardroom — Leading With Your Blueprint with Jerry Price | Episode 008 Most people think belonging is a program you roll out. Jerry Price knows it's a way of life — and he's been living it his whole career. In Episode 008 of UNSTUCK, I sit down with Jerry Price, Belonging Partner Advisor for Corewell Health East, to talk about culture, community, leadership, and what it really means to build environments where people are seen, valued, and able to contribute. Jerry grew up in Benton Harbor, Michigan — steps from Lake Michigan and steps from the hood. He'll tell you both shaped him. His parents came out of Mississippi and rural Florida in the 1940s with a deep sense of service and a conviction that giving back wasn't optional. That blueprint has followed him into every room he's ever walked into. From grassroots community work to advising executive leaders at one of the largest health systems in the region — Jerry has built a career on a simple idea: when you authentically invest in people, unexpected success follows. In this episode, you'll hear: Why your lived experience is your leadership blueprint — and how to transfer it anywhere The difference between getting in the door, sitting at the table, and creating the menu Why belonging and inclusion has to be personal before it can be professional What happened to DEI — and why the how matters as much as the what How to find calm in the chaos and manage your energy for maximum impact Why "every stranger holds your next opportunity" The jazz festival Jerry built on the shores of Lake Michigan — and what it taught him about community Why coaching is about personal change, not just professional growth And maybe most importantly: Why Jerry believes that communities who felt like they didn't have a voice are about to sing the loudest. This conversation is honest, warm, and deeply practical for leaders, professionals, coaches, and anyone who believes that how you treat people is your strategy. Learn more at https://www.translatorscg.com/podcast.  About the Guest: Jerry Price is the Belonging Partner Advisor for Corewell Health East, where he guides belonging and culture transformation efforts across Southeast Michigan. A Certified Diversity Professional and nationally recognized facilitator, Jerry also serves on Governor Whitmer's Black Leadership Council Health Steering Committee, chairs the Benton Harbor Education Foundation, and co-founded Lake Breeze at Sunset — a jazz festival on the shores of Lake Michigan. #UnstuckPodcast #BelongingLeadership #InclusiveLeadership #CultureTransformation #LeadershipDevelopment #Somebodiness #CommunityLeadership #BlackLeadership #DEI #WorkplaceCulture #CoachingLeadership #BentonHarbor #HealthcareLeadership

  5. Jun 1

    UNSTUCK Podcast | Leadership That Moves People with Kevin Bryant | Episode 007

    UNSTUCK Podcast | Leadership That Moves People with Kevin Bryant | Episode 007 Description: What if the most important leadership decision your organization makes… is the one you slow down enough to get right? In this episode of Unstuck, Tim sits down with Kevin Bryant, Managing Director at GoodCitizen, to unpack what really happens behind executive search—and why most organizations get it wrong. Kevin brings a deeply human, equity-centered approach to leadership placement—one rooted in community, honesty, and the belief that leadership decisions shape long-term impact. This conversation goes beyond hiring. It’s about: Why “fit” is often the wrong goal  What great leadership actually feels like (not just looks like on paper)  How boards sabotage success before a leader even starts  The cost of dishonesty in leadership transitions  Why “doing what you said you would do” is rare—and powerful  And maybe most importantly:👉 What it means to place leaders who don’t just perform—but transform. If you sit on a board, lead an organization, or care about building something that lasts—this conversation is for you. About the Guest:Kevin Bryant is a Managing Director at GoodCitizen, where he leads equity-centered executive searches for nonprofits and mission-driven organizations. His approach is grounded in integrity, community impact, and the belief that leadership decisions are one of the most powerful levers for meaningful change. #UnstuckPodcast #Leadership #ExecutiveLeadership #NonprofitLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #ExecutiveSearch #OrganizationalCulture #TalentStrategy #Somebodiness #MissionDriven

  6. May 15

    UNSTUCK Podcast | The Limits of Law & the Power of Service with James Liggins Jr. | Episode 006

    What if everything you think you know about the law… isn’t actually how it works? In this episode of Unstuck, Tim Terrentine sits down with attorney and community leader James Liggins Jr. for a powerful conversation about the gap between law and justice, the limits of our legal system, and the responsibility we carry as individuals within it. James breaks down what “guilty” and “not guilty” really mean—and why the legal system isn’t designed to determine truth, but responsibility. From civic education to systemic inequities, from courtroom realities to community service, this conversation challenges assumptions and reframes how we think about power, fairness, and leadership. You’ll hear: Why the legal system is built on “reasonable doubt,” not absolute truth  How laws change—and what that means for fairness across time  The impact of economics and access on legal outcomes  Why civic education may be the missing link in public discourse  How service and community engagement shape real leadership  This isn’t just about law.It’s about how we show up—in systems, in community, and for each other. Subscribe for more conversations that move you forward. About the Guest: James Liggins Jr. is a Senior Counsel at Warner Norcross + Judd LLP, focusing on real estate litigation, business disputes, and community-centered legal advocacy. Beyond his legal practice, James is a deeply engaged civic leader—serving on multiple boards and advancing equity, access, and representation across Michigan. His work reflects a lifelong commitment to bridging profession and purpose.  #UnstuckPodcast #Leadership #Justice #CivicEngagement #Perspective

  7. May 1

    UNSTUCK Podcast | Leadership, Perspective & Being “On the Agenda” with Darlene King Turner | Episode 005

    What does it really take to lead in a time of constant change? In this episode of UNSTUCK, Tim Terrentine sits down with Darlene King Turner—CEO and President of The Unity Collaborative—for a powerful conversation on leadership, perspective, and the responsibility we carry to others. Darlene shares her journey growing up in Detroit, where exposure to diversity created a lifelong foundation for understanding what she calls the “mosaic” of humanity—and how that perspective shapes effective leadership today. Together, they unpack: Why leaders must choose to be “on the agenda, not on the menu” How perspective—not position—is the real leadership advantage The danger of leading in isolation instead of collaboration Why the next generation is more collaborative than ever How to lead through uncertainty without losing your values The role of vulnerability, feedback, and reverse mentorship What it means to truly build people—not just manage them One of the most powerful takeaways:Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about bringing the right voices to the table. Darlene also shares how she is developing future leaders through global youth programs connected to the United Nations—ensuring the next generation is prepared to lead beyond borders. This conversation is honest, strategic, and deeply human. Because getting unstuck isn’t just about movement—It’s about how you lead others forward. About the Guest:Darlene King Turner is CEO and President of The Unity Collaborative, bringing over 20 years of leadership in building inclusive communities, cross-sector partnerships, and global initiatives that drive systemic impact

  8. Apr 13

    UNSTUCK Podcast | The People Problem No One Wants to Fix with Monique Gibson | Episode 004

    What happens when the biggest problem in your business… is people? In this episode of UNSTUCK, Tim Terrentine sits down with Monique Gibson—U.S. Army veteran, attorney, and founder of JMCO Consulting—for a candid, unfiltered conversation about leadership, workplace dysfunction, and the realities of growing a business. Monique shares her journey from military service to corporate leadership to entrepreneurship—and how those experiences shaped her approach to solving one of the most overlooked challenges in organizations: people. Together, they unpack: Why high performers often fail as leaders The real reason workplace toxicity exists How childhood experiences show up in the boardroom Why founders struggle to scale beyond early success The danger of hiring family and friends into key roles What happens when leaders avoid hard conversations Why “being the boss” isn’t what people expect The cost of untrained managers on team performance How to identify and fix organizational blind spots Why growth requires both clarity and implementation One of the most powerful takeaways:You don’t fix people problems by avoiding them—you fix them by facing them. This conversation is direct, honest, and grounded in real-world experience. Monique brings both compassion and accountability to the table, challenging leaders to stop ignoring what’s broken and start building what works. Because getting unstuck isn’t about working harder.It’s about fixing what’s in the way. About the Guest:Monique Gibson, JD, MBA, is a U.S. Army veteran, attorney, and founder of JMCO Consulting LLC. She helps organizations solve complex operational and leadership challenges through strategic thinking, leadership development, and organizational effectiveness.  Learn more: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/moniquegibson1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmcoconsulting/ Email: monique@jmcoconsulting.com #UnstuckPodcast #Leadership #OrganizationalDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveLeadership #PeopleLeadership #Entrepreneurship #TimTerrentine

  9. Mar 19

    UNSTUCK Podcast | Education, Opportunity, and the Power of Community with Von Washington Jr. | Episode 003

    UNSTUCK Podcast | Education, Opportunity, and the Power of Community with Von Washington Jr. | Episode 003 What happens when a community decides that every student deserves a pathway to opportunity? In this episode of UNSTUCK, Tim Terrentine sits down with Von Washington Jr., CEO of the Kalamazoo Promise, to explore the transformational power of education, community trust, and leadership rooted in service. Von shares the story behind one of the most generous scholarship programs in the United States and the lessons learned from helping thousands of students pursue education beyond high school. From growing up in a military family and constantly starting over, to leading a national model for community investment in education, Von reflects on what it means to build opportunity that lasts for generations. Together, they unpack: • How constant change shaped Von’s leadership style• The real impact of the Kalamazoo Promise scholarship• Why scholarships alone aren’t enough to change lives• The importance of community trust in education• The role relationships play in helping students succeed• How education can break cycles of generational poverty• What leaders must do to help people get unstuck This conversation is a powerful reminder that opportunity doesn’t happen in isolation.It happens when communities decide to invest in their people. Because when education, leadership, and community come together — transformation becomes possible. About the Guest Von Washington Jr. is the CEO of the Kalamazoo Promise, one of the nation’s most transformative scholarship programs. He leads efforts to expand access to post-secondary education while strengthening community partnerships that support student success. Learn more: Kalamazoo Promise: https://kalamazoopromise.com/ Big in the Community Podcast: https://www.kalamazoopromise.com/big-in-the-community LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/von-washington-jr-0046a226/  #UnstuckPodcast #Leadership #Education #CommunityDevelopment #Scholarships #Opportunity #KalamazooPromise #TimTerrentine

  10. Mar 19

    UNSTUCK Podcast on How Everybody Eats with Camille Adams, RDN | Episode 002

    UNSTUCK Podcast on How Everybody Eats with Camille Adams, RDN | Episode 002 Everybody eats. But not everybody understands how food shapes health, energy, culture, and community. In this episode of UNSTUCK, Tim Terrentine sits down with Camille Adams, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Community Wellness Educator, for a powerful conversation about nutrition, health equity, and the real-life shifts that make healthy eating sustainable. Camille shares her personal journey—from chronic health struggles as a teenager to becoming a community-based nutrition educator helping individuals, families, and workplaces rethink what “healthy” really means. Together, they unpack: Why nutrition and community can’t be separated The truth about diet culture and “good vs. bad” foods How small shifts create sustainable health change Why healthy eating isn’t about restriction—it’s about responsibility How food impacts workplace productivity and performance What parents need to understand about modeling nutrition for children Practical strategies for eating healthy on a budget Why frozen and canned foods can be powerful tools How companies can invest in nutrition to improve retention and performance This conversation is practical, honest, and refreshingly judgment-free. Camille challenges myths about food while making nutrition accessible, culturally relevant, and realistic for everyday life. Because transformation doesn’t just happen in the boardroom.It happens at the dinner table. About the Guest: Camille Adams, RDN is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and founder of EasyPeasyNutrition LLC. She specializes in making nutrition practical, culturally inclusive, and accessible—bridging the gap between healthcare and real-life eating habits. Learn more at: LinkedIn: @camille-adams-rdn-816a05164/ Facebook: @Easypeasynutrition Instagram: @easypeasynutritionllc Website: camilleadams-nutrition.com #UnstuckPodcast #Nutrition #CommunityHealth #CulinaryMedicine #HealthEquity #WorkplaceWellness #Dietitian #HealthyLiving #LeadershipWellbeing #TimTerrentine

  11. Mar 2

    UNSTUCK Podcast with Tim Terrentine | Special Guest, Dr. Dayan Douse

    What does real transformation actually require — and why do so many leaders get stuck trying to change? In this inaugural episode of UNSTUCK, host Tim Terrentine sits down with Dr. Dayan Douse, Executive Coach and Organizational Transformation Strategist, for a direct conversation about responsibility, leadership, and what sustainable change truly demands. Drawing from decades of Fortune 500 leadership experience and his Transformation Triangle™ framework, Dr. Douse challenges common assumptions about accountability and behavior change. Together, they explore why awareness isn’t enough — and what leaders must practice when they feel stuck between pressure, people, and expectations. In this episode, you’ll explore: The difference between responsibility and accountability The three disciplines of the Transformation Triangle™ How blame, justification, shame, and obligation derail change Why Authentic Intelligence (AI) can support—but not replace—human connection Practical tools leaders can use immediately How ownership reshapes teams, culture, and results About the GuestDr. Dayan Douse is an Executive Coach and Organizational Transformation Strategist with over 30 years of senior IT leadership experience at a Fortune 500 company. He is the creator of the Transformation Triangle™, a framework designed to help leaders change behavior — not just mindset — for sustainable impact.

  • 11 Episodes

About

Getting stuck is part of leading. What matters is what you do next. The UNSTUCK Podcast, hosted by Tim Terrentine, features real conversations with bold, thoughtful leaders navigating tension, transition, and growth. This isn’t a highlight reel — it’s honest dialogue about pressure, purpose, and becoming. Each episode slows the moment down, names what’s hard, and uncovers practical shifts that build traction. If you believe everybody is somebody — including you — this space is for you.

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