Legacy & Leadership

David McKean
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Join host David McKean twice a month for Legacy and Leadership, where he interviews industry leaders on why it is important to leave a legacy on many levels—family, community, and financially.  Glean action steps you can implement in your life today. 

  1. Oct 1

    Episode 34 | Legacy and Leadership | President Bonner pt2

    Join David's rich conversation with Jo Bonner, Jr,  the fourth president of the University of South Alabama since November 2021.  President Bonner is committed to establishing South as the Flagship of the Gulf Coast. Under his leadership, South has positioned itself as a top destination for a quality education and the region’s fastest-growing academic medical system. Bonner has visited with students, teachers, and college counselors representing more than 100 high schools throughout Alabama and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast; he has helped tell the South’s story to more than 8,500 prospective students. With a focus on engagement, Bonner initiated Jag Days, bringing high school students to campus on Jaguar Athletics buses for spirited VIP tours to see all South has to offer. His upbeat message builds on South’s journey of progress and renews its promise to students and their families: A degree from the University of South Alabama is a first-class ticket to a brighter future.   Previously, Bonner served as chief of staff to Alabama Governor Kay Ivey. For more than a decade, he represented Alabama’s First District in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he earned a reputation as a respected and influential voice of reason in both Alabama and Washington. He was a member of the House Appropriations Committee and chaired the House Ethics Committee. During Bonner’s time as chairman, the bipartisan Ethics Committee always reached unanimous votes. His crowning Congressional accomplishment came in 2012 when Airbus announced plans to build its first U.S. Final Assembly Line in Mobile. He secured a $2.8 billion contract for Austal to build 10 Littoral Combat Ships for the U.S. Navy.  You will gain wisdom and inspiration in this episode. 00:30 Journalism | College Years 00:56 Intro into Politics 2:13 His personal loan out for the company 3:36 People supporting his political campaign  4:54 One person can make a difference  6:52 First Day in Congress 11:01 Campaign and voters 11:40 Austal | Airbus 13:00 Washington DC 16:18 Common Ground 16:50 Shared Values  19:30 More About University of South Alabama

  2. Sep 15

    Episode 33 | Legacy and Leadership | President Bonner

    Join David's rich conversation with Jo Bonner, Jr,  the fourth president of the University of South Alabama since November 2021.  President Bonner is committed to establishing South as the Flagship of the Gulf Coast. Under his leadership, South has positioned itself as a top destination for a quality education and the region’s fastest-growing academic medical system. Bonner has visited with students, teachers, and college counselors representing more than 100 high schools throughout Alabama and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast; he has helped tell the South’s story to more than 8,500 prospective students. With a focus on engagement, Bonner initiated Jag Days, bringing high school students to campus on Jaguar Athletics buses for spirited VIP tours to see all South has to offer. His upbeat message builds on South’s journey of progress and renews its promise to students and their families: A degree from the University of South Alabama is a first-class ticket to a brighter future.   Previously, Bonner served as chief of staff to Alabama Governor Kay Ivey. For more than a decade, he represented Alabama’s First District in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he earned a reputation as a respected and influential voice of reason in both Alabama and Washington. He was a member of the House Appropriations Committee and chaired the House Ethics Committee. During Bonner’s time as chairman, the bipartisan Ethics Committee always reached unanimous votes. His crowning Congressional accomplishment came in 2012 when Airbus announced plans to build its first U.S. Final Assembly Line in Mobile. He secured a $2.8 billion contract for Austal to build 10 Littoral Combat Ships for the U.S. Navy.  You will gain wisdom and inspiration in this episode. 00:25 intro background President Jo Bonner 2:36 Growing up 6:20 Teenage years 7:43 College years 8:30 Leaders in the home 10:02 Tragedy and adversity  12:27 Camden friends  15:32 Good teachers and mentors  16:15 Other mentors  18:33 Dr. King

  3. Sep 1

    Episode 30 | Legacy and Leadership | Aryne Hudson

    Part 2 of David's conversation with dynamic Aryne Hudson for a leadership-packed conversation. Aryne Hudson is a litigation attorney in the Mobile, Alabama, office of Phelps, where she represents clients in complex tort, commercial, employment, and defamation matters. Her practice is grounded in thoughtful advocacy, strategic problem-solving, and a commitment to serving clients with both precision and integrity. Beyond her legal practice, Aryne is deeply engaged in leadership and service within her profession and community. In recognition of her impact, she was named to Mobile Bay Magazine’s 40 Under 40, highlighting her professional achievements and contributions to the Mobile community. She also serves as an officer of the Vernon Z. Crawford Bar Association and as an executive board member of the Community Foundation of South Alabama, where she supports initiatives focused on professional development, civic engagement, and expanding access to opportunity. A native of Mobile, Aryne’s path into the legal profession was shaped early by curiosity, discipline, and a strong foundation of values instilled by her family. She earned her law degree from the University of Alabama School of Law, where she competed on the Trial Advocacy Team in national competitions, an experience that sharpened her ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and lead under pressure. Beyond her work in the courtroom, Aryne approaches leadership not as a title, but as a daily practice. Whether mentoring, collaborating, or advocating, she is driven by a belief that the most meaningful legacy is built through consistent actions, strong relationships, and a willingness to create opportunities for others. 0:29 Leadership as a daily practice 2:44 Leadership based on mentorship 3:36 Big world perspective  4:54 Time investment  7:01 Mentorship, life juggle 9:01 Person impactful in your life 10:20 Role of good parents 12:01 Taking care of yourself 14:24 Top leadership principle

  4. Aug 15

    Episode 29 | Legacy and Leadership | Aryne Hudson

    Join David as he sits down with dynamic Aryne Hudson for a leadership packed conversation. Aryne Hudson is a litigation attorney in the Mobile, Alabama office of Phelps, where she represents clients in complex tort, commercial, employment, and defamation matters. Her practice is grounded in thoughtful advocacy, strategic problem-solving, and a commitment to serving clients with both precision and integrity. Beyond her legal practice, Aryne is deeply engaged in leadership and service within her profession and community. In recognition of her impact, she was named to Mobile Bay Magazine’s 40 Under 40, highlighting her professional achievements and contributions to the Mobile community. She also serves as an officer of the Vernon Z. Crawford Bar Association and as an executive board member for the Community Foundation of South Alabama, where she helps support initiatives focused on professional development, civic engagement, and expanding access to opportunity. A native of Mobile, Aryne’s path into the legal profession was shaped early by curiosity, discipline, and a strong foundation of values instilled by her family. She earned her law degree from the University of Alabama School of Law, where she competed on the Trial Advocacy Team in national competitions, an experience that sharpened her ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and lead under pressure. Beyond her work in the courtroom, Aryne approaches leadership not as a title, but as a daily practice. Whether mentoring, collaborating, or advocating, she is driven by a belief that the most meaningful legacy is built through consistent actions, strong relationships, and a willingness to create opportunities for others. 0:34 Intro 1:43 Early years as a Mobile native  2:56 College years  5:12 Extracurricular opportunities  7:06 Leadership Impact your life 8:48 Growing leadership roles 10:55 Time in college  13:13 Relationships that helped on your journey 14:40 Pushing thru adversity 15:38 From college to law school 16:55 Pushing thru law school 18:08 Family support

  5. Aug 1

    Legacy and Leadership | Rebecca Byrne Part 2

    Part 2 of David's conversation with Rebecca Byrne. David was fortunate to sit down with Rebecca Byrne, a longtime voice for improvement in Mobile, Alabama.  She has solid advice on leadership and humble thoughts on legacy.  More on her background below.  Enjoy! Rebecca Byrne has been serving as the President & CEO for the Community Foundation of South Alabama for twelve years, leading the foundation in its mission to bring together and direct philanthropic assets to make southwest Alabama a better place.  The Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and has awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama since its inception in downtown Mobile 50 years ago. To support community dialogue and connect organizations, CFSA offers its community center as a convening place for nonprofits, businesses, and civic groups and hosts community events.     Rebecca has served in leadership roles for numerous civic, cultural and church organizations, including serving as Chair of the Mobile Public Library, Downtown Mobile Alliance, Beckwith Camp and Conference Center, and Baldwin County Trailblazers. A member of the Society of Sponsors of the United States Navy, a graduate of Leadership Alabama and Leadership Mobile, Rebecca is a member of Mobile Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow.    Rebecca and her husband Bradley enjoy their involvement in the community but most of all their time with their four children and three grandchildren.

  6. Jul 15

    Legacy and Leadership | Rebecca Byrne part 1

    David was fortunate to sit down with Rebecca Byrne, a longtime voice for improvement in Mobile, Alabama.  She has solid advice on leadership and humble thoughts on legacy.  More on her background below.  Enjoy! Rebecca Byrne has been serving as the President & CEO for the Community Foundation of South Alabama for twelve years, leading the foundation in its mission to bring together and direct philanthropic assets to make southwest Alabama a better place.  The Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and has awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama since its inception in downtown Mobile 50 years ago. To support community dialogue and connect organizations, CFSA offers its community center as a convening place for nonprofits, businesses, and civic groups and hosts community events.     Rebecca has served in leadership roles for numerous civic, cultural and church organizations, including serving as Chair of the Mobile Public Library, Downtown Mobile Alliance, Beckwith Camp and Conference Center, and Baldwin County Trailblazers. A member of the Society of Sponsors of the United States Navy, a graduate of Leadership Alabama and Leadership Mobile, Rebecca is a member of Mobile Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow.    Rebecca and her husband Bradley enjoy their involvement in the community but most of all their time with their four children and three grandchildren.

  7. Jul 1

    Legacy and Leadership Episode 24 | Chris Bell - Part 2

    In Part 2 of this conversation on Legacy and Leadership, host David McKeen continues his discussion with Pastor Chris Bell, diving deeper into the realities of leadership, writing, and building a life that truly matters. Chris shares the behind-the-scenes journey of writing his bestselling book Broken Crown—including the challenges of turning ideas into a finished product and the discipline it takes to follow through. From ditch-digging analogies to hard-earned lessons from mentors, this episode is packed with practical wisdom for anyone chasing a vision. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why most great ideas never become reality—and how to change that The real process behind writing a book (it’s not glamorous) The power of discipline, consistency, and doing the work Lessons from mentors that shaped Chris’s leadership and writing How to handle criticism and lead through challenging, polarized times What it means to stay grounded in your purpose while navigating public leadership Chris also gives a preview of his upcoming book Green Marriage, sharing why he waited over 20 years to write about marriage—and what he hopes it will accomplish. Whether you're a leader, creator, or someone striving to make a lasting impact, this episode will challenge and encourage you to keep showing up, keep working, and keep leading with purpose. 👉 If this episode added value, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs to hear it! #Leadership #Legacy #WritingProcess #ChrisBell #DavidMcKeen #PersonalGrowth #Mentorship

  8. Jun 15

    Legacy and Leadership Episode 23 | Chris Bell - Part 1

    In this episode of Legacy and Leadership, host David McKeen sits down with Pastor Chris Bell—lead pastor of Three Circle Church and a seasoned leader with over 25 years of ministry experience. Chris shares powerful insights from his journey growing up in small-town Mississippi to leading a thriving multi-campus church impacting thousands each week. From his early days in a dynamic church environment to being mentored by influential leaders, Chris unpacks how those formative experiences shaped his passion for leadership, faith, and long-term impact. Together, David and Chris dive into: What makes a church—or any organization—truly dynamic The lasting power of mentorship and how to find the right mentor Why leadership is about long-term impact, not just short-term results The role of humility in personal and professional growth How to build a legacy that lasts for generations Chris also shares personal stories about his upbringing, influential mentors, and lessons learned from decades in ministry—including his perspective on measuring success in leadership. If you’re a leader, aspiring leader, or someone seeking to make a meaningful impact in your family, community, or career, this conversation is full of wisdom you won’t want to miss. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who could benefit from it! 🎧 Stay tuned for Part 2—coming soon! #Leadership #Mentorship #Legacy #ChrisBell #DavidMcKeen #FaithLeadership #PersonalGrowth

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About

Join host David McKean twice a month for Legacy and Leadership, where he interviews industry leaders on why it is important to leave a legacy on many levels—family, community, and financially.  Glean action steps you can implement in your life today. 

Information

  • Creator
    David McKean
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Legacy & Leadership
  • Show Website
    Legacy & Leadership