IgniteCast - Official Podcast of the Ignite Leadership Conference by CDF

Community Development Foundation

Ignite your leadership passion with Ignitecast, the official podcast of the Ignite Leadership Conference in Tupelo, MS. IgniteCast features content from past Ignite speakers along with insights from local leaders. Each episode will be a short, engaging 20-to-30-minute conversation designed to highlight the impact of leadership and economic development in Tupelo and Lee County. Our purpose is to tell the Community Development Foundation’s story by showcasing how we create more and better jobs, attract top talent, and foster leadership growth within the community. Through these conversations, we aim to strengthen talent retention, support business expansion, and ensure that Tupelo, Lee County, and CDF remain relevant and forward-thinking.

  1. Lead with Kindness, Win with Transparency

    Jun 4

    Lead with Kindness, Win with Transparency

    Season 8, Episode 2: Leading with Kindness with Lori Dillon What if one of the most powerful leadership strategies is also one of the simplest? In this episode of Ignite Cast, Judd Wilson and Taylor Tutor sit down with Lori Dillon, Director of Marketing at Absolute Restoration, community advocate, wife, mother, and self-described "goldendoodle in a room full of people." Lori shares how kindness, authenticity, and intentional connection have shaped her leadership journey—from growing up at the Tupelo Children's Mansion to becoming a respected leader involved in organizations across Northeast Mississippi. She opens up about balancing family, career, volunteer commitments, and community service while learning the importance of saying "no" to protect the quality of her impact. The conversation explores overcoming imposter syndrome, building confidence through curiosity, asking better questions, and why some of the most influential leaders are simply those willing to show up, listen, and make others feel seen. Whether you're a seasoned leader, a young professional finding your footing, or someone looking to make a difference in your community, Lori's story is a powerful reminder that leadership isn't about having all the answers—it's about being willing to learn, serve, and lead with grace. 🎧 Tune in to hear:  Why kindness is Lori's most important leadership principle  How to overcome imposter syndrome and lead with authenticity  The value of asking questions and staying teachable  Finding balance between work, family, and community involvement  Lessons learned from the Tupelo Children's Mansion that still guide her today Because sometimes the strongest leaders aren't the loudest voices in the room—they're the ones making sure everyone else feels welcome in it 🎧 New episodes drop every other Thursday, packed with insight, inspiration, and actionable ideas to help you grow as a leader—right where you are. Want to learn more about the Ignite Leadership Conference?  Visit 👉 www.igniteleadership.com

    24 min
  2. When The Forecast Calls for Courage with Matt Lauban

    May 21

    When The Forecast Calls for Courage with Matt Lauban

    Season 8 of Ignite Cast kicks off with one of the most recognizable voices in Mississippi weather — Matt Laubhan. In this episode, Matt sits down with hosts Taylor and Judd to share the story behind launching Mississippi Live Weather after stepping away from his longtime role as chief meteorologist.  Matt opens up about leadership, faith, overcoming uncertainty, and what it takes to build something from the ground up. From creating a culture people want to be part of to navigating fear, mentorship, and entrepreneurship, this conversation dives into the mindset that helped him turn a difficult season into a new opportunity. The episode also explores the importance of trust, teamwork, innovation, and community partnership, plus the vision behind Mississippi Live Weather and how it’s changing the way people consume weather coverage across the state. Whether you’re leading a business, navigating change, or simply looking for encouragement to take the next step, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. 🎧 Tune in to hear why sometimes the biggest setbacks can become the foundation for your greatest purpose. Big thanks to iHeartMedia—our Presenting Sponsor for the entire IgniteCast podcast and the powerhouse fueling this season’s episodes! 🔊🔥  🎧 New episodes drop every other Thursday, packed with insight, inspiration, and actionable ideas to help you grow as a leader—right where you are. Want to learn more about the Ignite Leadership Conference?  Visit 👉 www.igniteleadership.com

    20 min
  3. Leadership = Hire Right, Train Right, and Treat Right

    Apr 23

    Leadership = Hire Right, Train Right, and Treat Right

    In this episode of Ignite Cast, Judd Wilson sits down with Bernard Bean of the Eat With Us Group (https://eatwithusrestaurants.com) for a conversation about leadership, culture, and what it really takes to build a strong team. Bernard shares how his organization transformed retention by focusing on three simple but powerful principles: hire right, train right, and treat right. He talks about the importance of never stopping the search for great people, listening to employee feedback, acting on it, and creating a work environment where people feel valued and heard. Bernard also reflects on the growth of the family business, the lessons learned through years in the restaurant industry, and why great leadership starts with personal responsibility, humility, and a genuine commitment to people. This episode is full of practical wisdom for anyone leading a team, building a culture, or trying to create an organization where both employees and customers thrive. Big thanks to iHeartMedia—our Presenting Sponsor for the entire IgniteCast podcast and the powerhouse fueling this season’s episodes! 🔊🔥  🎧 New episodes drop every other Thursday, packed with insight, inspiration, and actionable ideas to help you grow as a leader—right where you are. Want to learn more about the Ignite Leadership Conference?  Visit 👉 www.igniteleadership.com

    22 min
  4. A Gen Z Perspective on Leadership That Lasts

    Apr 9

    A Gen Z Perspective on Leadership That Lasts

    What does leadership look like for Gen Z? In this episode of IgniteCast, Judd Wilson sits down with Jenna Hope Harris to talk about mentorship, mindset, and what it really means to “be the leader you would love to follow.” As a Gen Z leader deeply engaged in her community and passionate about growth, Jenna shares how cross-generational leadership can strengthen organizations instead of divide them. From investing in other people’s dreams to understanding the science behind how our thoughts shape our actions, this conversation explores how mindset becomes a leader’s greatest asset. Jenna also shares her personal dream of speaking on stages like Ignite and how authenticity, vulnerability, and consistency shape lasting influence. Whether you’re leading a team, building culture, or simply trying to grow personally, this episode will challenge you to examine your mindset and lead with intention Jenna Hope Harris' website:  https://www.jennahopeharris.com/ 🎧 New episodes drop every other Thursday, packed with insight, inspiration, and actionable ideas to help you grow as a leader—right where you are. Want to learn more about the Ignite Leadership Conference?  Visit 👉 www.igniteleadership.com

    22 min
  5. Leadership That Serves

    Mar 26

    Leadership That Serves

    What do a bold 1970s visionary, a tornado displaced football team, and a regional ice storm have in common? They reveal what real leadership looks like. Serving. In this episode of IgniteCast, Judd Wilson talks with Mike Clayborne, President of the Create Foundation, about leadership that brings people together and makes life better for others. They reflect on the legacy of George McLean and Jim Ingram, the partnership between Create and the Community Development Foundation, and why regional collaboration matters more than ever. At its core, this conversation reminds us that leadership is not about title or spotlight. It is about service, vision, and the courage to put others first. 🎧 New episodes drop every other Thursday, packed with insight, inspiration, and actionable ideas to help you grow as a leader—right where you are. Want to learn more about the Ignite Leadership Conference?  Visit 👉 www.igniteleadership.com

    21 min
  6. Leading with Confidence in the Age of AI

    Mar 12

    Leading with Confidence in the Age of AI

    Artificial Intelligence is here, and it is not slowing down. In this episode of IgniteCast, Ashley and Chris Elkins, founders of Vitality South and leaders across multiple technology ventures, join the conversation to unpack what it truly means to lead in the age of AI. From startup growth to scaling companies, they share how vision, culture, and leadership discipline shape innovation rather than fear it.  Using the powerful “baby tiger” analogy introduced at Ignite by Noelle Russell, the discussion dives into how AI can be both incredibly useful and potentially risky. Leaders must embrace the opportunity while building guardrails, maintaining discernment, and understanding that AI is a tool, not a replacement for critical thinking. From role-playing with AI for strategic insight to understanding the dangers of blind trust, this episode explores practical ways leaders can responsibly integrate AI into their organizations.  Most importantly, this conversation is not just about technology. It is about vision, collaboration, and stepping away from the daily grind long enough to think bigger. If you are leading a company, building a team, or simply trying to navigate the rapid changes AI is bringing to business, this episode will challenge you to lead with courage, clarity, and intentionality in a rapidly evolving world. Big thanks to iHeartMedia—our Presenting Sponsor for the entire IgniteCast podcast and the powerhouse fueling this season’s episodes! 🔊🔥  🎧 New episodes drop every other Thursday, packed with insight, inspiration, and actionable ideas to help you grow as a leader—right where you are. Want to learn more about the Ignite Leadership Conference?  Visit 👉 www.igniteleadership.com

    21 min
  7. Leading Through Partnerships

    Feb 26

    Leading Through Partnerships

    In this episode of IgniteCast, Judd Wilson sits down with Kim Rushing, Community Development & Outreach Coordinator for the City of Tupelo, and Captains Michael and Schelika Chisolm of The Salvation Army in Tupelo, to talk about what it means to lead through partnerships. Each guest shares practical leadership insight centered on presence, readiness, humility, and stepping up when you see a need. The conversation makes it clear that strong leadership often begins with simply showing up and working together. Kim Rushing explains how the City of Tupelo brings nonprofits, churches, and community organizations together to share resources and solve problems collaboratively. Captains Michael and Schelika Chisolm discuss how partnerships help remove barriers such as housing instability, transportation challenges, and lack of documentation, giving people the opportunity to move forward. This episode highlights how real impact happens when leaders align their strengths, support one another, and commit to serving the community as one team. Big thanks to iHeartMedia—our Presenting Sponsor for the entire IgniteCast podcast and the powerhouse fueling this season’s episodes! 🔊🔥  🎧 New episodes drop every other Thursday, packed with insight, inspiration, and actionable ideas to help you grow as a leader—right where you are. Want to learn more about the Ignite Leadership Conference?  Visit 👉 www.igniteleadership.com

    24 min
  8. Ignite 2026 Recap

    Feb 12

    Ignite 2026 Recap

    Judd Wilson is joined by Ignite co-host and CDF team member Carol Ann Padgett for a candid conversation about leadership, clarity, and what it really takes to bring Ignite to life each year. From Andy Stanley’s powerful reminder that “people follow clarity” to the intentional process of selecting speakers who motivate, teach, and challenge leaders, this episode pulls back the curtain on the vision calls, post-event debriefs, and audience surveys that shape Ignite’s impact. You’ll hear reflections on standout moments from Ignite 2026, including Justin Forsett’s message that “greatness grows best in the shadows,” and how growth often comes through challenge, change, and uncertainty. If you’ve ever wondered how Ignite comes together — or how strong leadership is built behind the scenes — this episode is for you. 🎙️ Go forth. Lead well. And embrace the climb. Big thanks to iHeartMedia—our Presenting Sponsor for the entire IgniteCast podcast and the powerhouse fueling this season’s episodes! 🔊🔥  🎧 New episodes drop every other Thursday, packed with insight, inspiration, and actionable ideas to help you grow as a leader—right where you are. Want to learn more about the Ignite Leadership Conference?  Visit 👉 www.igniteleadership.com

    23 min
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Ignite your leadership passion with Ignitecast, the official podcast of the Ignite Leadership Conference in Tupelo, MS. IgniteCast features content from past Ignite speakers along with insights from local leaders. Each episode will be a short, engaging 20-to-30-minute conversation designed to highlight the impact of leadership and economic development in Tupelo and Lee County. Our purpose is to tell the Community Development Foundation’s story by showcasing how we create more and better jobs, attract top talent, and foster leadership growth within the community. Through these conversations, we aim to strengthen talent retention, support business expansion, and ensure that Tupelo, Lee County, and CDF remain relevant and forward-thinking.

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