ILLUMENATE 007: Leadership, Service, and Personal Growth with James Quisenberry
In this episode of ILLUMENATE, I sit down with my longtime friend, James Quisenberry, to explore leadership, mentorship, and the journey of personal and professional growth. James, a devoted husband, father, and community leader, shares his unique perspective on how his career in education technology, his upbringing in an academic household, and his deep commitment to service have shaped his philosophy on leadership. With a passion for mentorship and a belief in lifelong learning, James provides invaluable insights on the importance of adaptability and embracing change.
[Also on Apple, Spotify, and Amazon Music]
James recounts his early aspirations of becoming a software developer before realizing that his true calling lay in leveraging technology to enhance education. His career took unexpected turns, through which James developed a leadership style grounded in resilience, strategic thinking, and an openness to learning from both successes and failures. His experiences during times of uncertainty, including witnessing corporate upheavals and navigating the challenges of shifting industries, reinforced his ability to remain adaptable and focused on long-term impact rather than short-term gains.
Beyond his professional endeavors, James is deeply involved in his community, serving on local governing boards and engaging in public service. He discusses how his upbringing, particularly the influence of his mother as a trailblazing academic leader, shaped his views on equity and gender dynamics in the workplace. He also reflects on his ongoing efforts to dismantle biases, particularly in areas like ableism, and how he continues to evolve his perspectives through self-reflection and interpersonal relationships.
The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of community and personal relationships in fostering growth. James emphasizes the role of deep, meaningful friendships and strong support systems in both personal and professional life. Through candid insights and thoughtful reflection, he encourages listeners to embrace lifelong learning, lean into their values, and seek opportunities to contribute to their communities. Tune in for an engaging dialogue on leadership, growth, and the power of service in shaping a fulfilling life.
You can learn more about and connect with James at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesquisenberry/
ILLUMENATE is a podcast that tells the stories of men with good hearts, open minds, and a desire to make the world better for everyone — not just them and theirs. More info: https://illumenate.substack.com/about
As I listen I think about the many hats we wear and what motivates us along the way. Tools and technologies on their own don’t motivate us. Tools used by humans to improve the lives of others is what motivates us. It’s what brought me to my pathway as an adjunct professor for so many years.
Being comfortable with change is important, but too much change is overwhelming and often overlooked. Change fatigue is real. We must meet those moments with grace.