Sound Leadership with DJ

Hosted by DJ

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Jun 2026

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Greetings and welcome to "Sound Leadership with DJ," the podcast that delves into the realm of leadership. If you're keen on gaining insights from renowned leaders worldwide, then you're in the right spot. During each episode, we'll take a deep dive into the life journeys of accomplished leaders, discovering what drives them. From their humble beginnings to their current positions, we'll explore the routes they took to reach their present status. We'll also inquire about their most significant hurdles, valuable lessons, and advice for those aiming to become leaders. Come along with us as!

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June 2, 2026Episode 811 min

Reflecting on Black Excellence, Leadership & DNPs of Color

Welcome to this episode of Sound Leadership with DJ, where we dive deep into transformative spaces and impactful conversations. Today, we're joined by Dr. Rodney Duckett, Francesco Adofila, and Dr. Kirk—three dynamic leaders making waves in the world of nursing, mentorship, and community growth. Together, they explore what it means to thrive in an inclusive space like the DMPs of Color conference, share insights on navigating challenges in healthcare, and highlight the importance of mentorship and representation.From Dr. Rodney Duckett's focus on connecting with youth and reshaping narratives of manhood to Francesco Adofila's pioneering work in psychedelics and mental health addiction research, this episode is packed with wisdom, passion, and humor. Plus, Dr. Kirk, fresh off earning his DNP, reflects on the power of Black and brown professionals inspiring future generations and creating safe spaces for collaboration.Whether you're curious about networking, learning from leaders, or just absorbing energy that drives change, this conversation is for you. Tune in and get ready for inspiration, inclusivity, and a whole lot of excellence!Connect with Dr Rodney Duckett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodney-duckett/Connect Francesco Adefila:https://www.linkedin.com/in/fadefila/🎧 Join the Sound Leadership with DJ community! 🎧🎵 Subscribe and share our podcast for valuable insights and amazing beats! 🎵🔴 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Soundleadership/streams👔 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/soundleadership/?viewAsMember=true🎧 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/soundleadershipwithdj❤️ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sound-leadership-with-dj-115806146/🍎 Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-leadership-with-dj/id1689938569

May 19, 2026Episode 754 min

Real World Leadership in Long Term Care with Annie Zell and Laura Hofmann

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Sound Leadership with DJ," where we delve deep into the intricate world of leadership within the long-term care and senior living industries. In today's episode, "Real World Leadership in Long Term Care with Annie Zell and Laura Hofmann," we are joined by two distinguished guests, Annie Zell and Laura Hofmann, who are Central figures at Leading Age Washington.With over 20 years of experience each, Annie and Laura bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise in areas ranging from nursing home administration to clinical excellence and regulatory strategy. Throughout this episode, they share their personal journeys and insights, covering critical topics such as leadership dynamics, workforce development, and strategies to tackle the workforce shortage in the post-acute care space.We'll explore the importance of nurturing strong relationships between administrators and directors of nursing and discuss practical ways to inspire the next generation of leaders. Plus, don't miss a special segment about their upcoming conference and the vital role professional organizations play in supporting industry professionals.Join us as we uncover the secrets to successful leadership and teamwork in a demanding and ever-evolving field. Tune in and prepare to be inspired by real world experiences and transformative strategies designed to strengthen your leadership skills and organizational impact.Stay tuned and get ready to redefine what leadership truly means—because here on Sound Leadership with DJ, we elevate leadership to the next level. Don’t forget to subscribe and follow us on your favorite platforms to stay connected!Connect with Laura Hofman:linkedin.com/in/laura-h-969180154/Connect with Annie Zell:linkedin.com/in/anniezell/🎧 Join the Sound Leadership with DJ community! 🎧🎵 Subscribe and share our podcast for valuable insights and amazing beats! 🎵🔴 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Soundleadership/streams👔 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/soundleadership/?viewAsMember=true🎧 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/soundleadershipwithdj❤️ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sound-leadership-with-dj-115806146/🍎 Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-leadership-with-dj/id1689938569🛍️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cba9a4cc-5056-4ae2-ba4c-a5eef068a9c9/sound-leadership-with-dj

May 5, 2026Episode 615 min

Elevating Healthcare: Insights from a Leader in Nursing and Community Growth

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Sound Leadership with DJ! In this session, we sit down with two extraordinary guests, Doctor Williams and Dr. Kirk, to explore the transformative power of community, professional growth, and mentorship within the healthcare industry.Doctor Williams, a dynamic DNP with a background in family medicine and HIV/AIDS care, shares his journey of elevating his craft and building purpose through connection. From navigating gaps in healthcare to mentoring the next generation, he dives into the challenges and rewards of striving toward excellence in the nursing profession. Meanwhile, Dr. Kirk brings his passion and perspective to the table, highlighting the significance of finding belonging and tapping into the wealth of support available at the DNPs of Color Conference.Together, they discuss pivotal topics like tailoring your career path, embracing learning through failure, and leveraging conferences as fertile soil for growth. Whether you're a nurse, a student, or a professional in any field, this conversation will leave you motivated to lean into community and develop your power and purpose. Plus, Doctor Williams gives us insight into his co-authored book, Latinos in Nursing, reflecting his dedication to amplifying diverse voices in healthcare.Tune in to hear how both speakers inspire individuals to thrive through mentorship, collaboration, and the pursuit of their higher calling.Connect with Dr Michael Williams:https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-williams-dnp-aprn-fnp-bc-85a870123/🎧 Join the Sound Leadership with DJ community! 🎧🎵 Subscribe and share our podcast for valuable insights and amazing beats! 🎵🔴 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Soundleadership/streams👔 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/soundleadership/?viewAsMember=true🎧 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/soundleadershipwithdj❤️ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sound-leadership-with-dj-115806146/🍎 Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-leadership-with-dj/id1689938569🛍️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cba9a4cc-5056-4ae2-ba4c-a5eef068a9c9/sound-leadership-with-dj

April 21, 2026Episode 538 min

Bedside to Boardroom: Dr. Marshall Blue on Nursing Leadership

Welcome to Sound Leadership with DJ, where insightful conversations meet leadership and personal growth. In this episode, titled "Dr. Blue Full Interview," host Demetrius "Dj" sits down with the inspiring and accomplished Doctor Marshall Blue for a heartfelt live discussion at the DNPs of Color 5th Annual Conference in Oakland, California.Together, they journey through Dr. Blue's remarkable 43-year career in nursing, his path to becoming the director of pediatric services at St. Joseph's Medical Center, and his unwavering commitment to mentorship, leadership, and community. Starting with vivid memories of the influential school nurse who shaped his ambitions, Dr. Blue shares how challenges as a male African-American nurse in the 1980s taught him resilience and the power of representation.With anecdotes about navigating educational obstacles, climbing the professional ladder, and discovering the transformative difference between having mentors and sponsors, Dr. Blue’s story speaks to the importance of advocacy and creating opportunities for others. This conversation is packed with inspiration, heartfelt moments, and takeaways for anyone pursuing leadership while staying true to their authentic self.Tune in as Demetrius "Dj" and Doctor Marshall Blue reflect on their journeys, their shared commitment to uplifting future generations, and the profound impact of community-driven events like the DNPs of Color Conference. Don’t miss this empowering blend of wisdom and heart, guaranteed to inspire you to lead, grow, and make a difference from wherever you stand.Connect with Dr Marshall Blue:https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarshallhbluesr/🎧 Join the Sound Leadership with DJ community! 🎧🎵 Subscribe and share our podcast for valuable insights and amazing beats! 🎵🔴 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Soundleadership/streams👔 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/soundleadership/?viewAsMember=true🎧 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/soundleadershipwithdj❤️ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sound-leadership-with-dj-115806146/🍎 Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-leadership-with-dj/id1689938569🛍️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cba9a4cc-5056-4ae2-ba4c-a5eef068a9c9/sound-leadership-with-dj

April 7, 2026Episode 431 min

Effective Leadership: Andrea Swanner's Approach to Hands-On Management

Welcome to "Sound Leadership with DJ"! In this episode, we have the distinct pleasure of hosting Andrea Swanner, a dynamic leader with over two decades of experience in various leadership roles. Andrea is not only a thriving business owner, overseeing NBA Notary and Business Services, but she is also a dedicated mother, wife, and multi-business entrepreneur. Her career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to servant leadership, a philosophy that has guided her through significant milestones and challenging leadership roles. Andrea's passion for serving her community and her family stems from deeply rooted values instilled by her parents, which continue to be the cornerstone of her leadership approach today. Andrea Swanner is the driving force behind NBA Notary and Business Services, where her leadership strategies revolve around servant leadership, working directly alongside her team, and fostering an environment of collaboration and mutual respect. Her leadership journey started early, being pushed into roles of responsibility, and she has continuously embraced opportunities for growth and development. Andrea’s impactful leadership style is characterized by leading by example, effective communication, and hands-on involvement. These principles have helped her navigate complex situations, such as supervising friends and balancing personal relationships with professional responsibilities. Don’t miss this episode to learn about Andrea’s experiences, her approach to mentorship, and how she leverages her leadership skills to make a difference in her community and business. -Connect with Andrea Swanner:- andrea@mbanotaryandbusiness.com- https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaswanner/- andreaswanner.com-🎧 Join the Sound Leadership with DJ community! 🎧🎵 Subscribe and share our podcast for valuable insights and amazing beats! 🎵🔴 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Soundleadership/streams👔 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/soundleadership/?viewAsMember=true🎧 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/soundleadershipwithdj❤️ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sound-leadership-with-dj-115806146/🍎 Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-leadership-with-dj/id1689938569🛍️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cba9a4cc-5056-4ae2-ba4c-a5eef068a9c9/sound-leadership-with-dj

March 24, 2026Episode 139 min

Battlefields to Boardrooms: Kevin Gibson’s Leadership Journey

Welcome to another compelling episode of Sound Leadership with DJ! In this conversation, host Demetrius "Dj" welcomes Kevin Gibson, a dynamic leader whose journey encompasses service in the U.S. Navy, healthcare, and now financial entrepreneurship. Joined by insights from Dr. Kirk, this episode dives deep into what it takes to lead through chaos, reinvent yourself without losing your essence, and navigate the challenges of leadership transitions.Kevin Gibson shares how his military background instilled his commitment to servitude, structure, and team leadership, which he later applied in nursing and education spaces. The conversation explores leadership styles, the importance of identity beyond titles, and the critical role of financial literacy in today’s leadership landscape. Whether you’re an aspiring leader or seasoned professional, this episode will leave you inspired with actionable insights to lead with purpose, build trust, and stay grounded through your leadership journey.Stay tuned and get ready to redefine what leadership truly means—because here on Sound Leadership with DJ, we elevate leadership to the next level. Don’t forget to subscribe and follow us on your favorite platforms to stay connected!Connect with Kevin Gibson:linkedin.com/in/kevingibsoniitiktok.com/@kevin_gibson2Instagram.com/kevin_gibson_2https://www.youtube.com/@kevin_gibson2🎧 Join the Sound Leadership with DJ community! 🎧🎵 Subscribe and share our podcast for valuable insights and amazing beats! 🎵🔴 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Soundleadership/streams👔 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/soundleadership/?viewAsMember=true🎧 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/soundleadershipwithdj❤️ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sound-leadership-with-dj-115806146/🍎 Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-leadership-with-dj/id1689938569🛍️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cba9a4cc-5056-4ae2-ba4c-a5eef068a9c9/sound-leadership-with-dj

February 27, 2026Episode 255 min

Lead, Shift, Succeed: Sophia Brown’s Playbook

Welcome to another episode of "Sound Leadership with DJ," where we delve into the minds of visionary leaders and uncover their journeys and insights. Today, we are thrilled to have Dr. Sophia Brown, a pioneering CEO of Strategic Informatics Solutions, as our guest. With over 30 years of experience as a registered nurse and notable leadership roles in healthcare, Dr. Brown shares her inspiring story of passion, perseverance, and purpose. We'll explore her expertise in research, informatics, and leadership, revealing how she overcame imposter syndrome and embraced challenges head-on. Join us as Dr. Brown emphasizes the importance of investing in oneself, the impact of coaching and mentorship, and the necessity of showing up fully in one's professional life. Whether you're navigating your career or aspire to lead with intent, this episode promises valuable insights to fuel your personal leadership journey. Don't miss our conversation with the incredible Dr. Sophia Brown as we explore the essence of true leadership, available now on your favorite platforms like YouTube, LinkedIn, and Apple Music.-Connect with Dr. Sophia Brown RN, PhD, DBA, FACHE, CPHIMS, PMP:- linkedin.com/in/sophiabrown- sopsas@yahoo.com--🎧 Join the Sound Leadership with DJ community! 🎧🎵 Subscribe and share our podcast for valuable insights and amazing beats! 🎵🔴 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Soundleadership/streams👔 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/soundleadership/?viewAsMember=true🎧 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/soundleadershipwithdj❤️ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sound-leadership-with-dj-115806146/🍎 Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-leadership-with-dj/id1689938569🛍️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cba9a4cc-5056-4ae2-ba4c-a5eef068a9c9/sound-leadership-with-dj

February 13, 2026Episode 134 min

Redefining Leadership, Collaboration, and Culture with Dr. Kirk and Evan Unger

In this episode of Sound Leadership with DJ, Dr. Kirk kicks off the highly anticipated Season 3 with an insightful and transformative conversation featuring Evan Unger. Known for his expertise in collaborative leadership and cultural transformation, Evan Unger shares his remarkable journey from his early career at Merck to becoming a managing partner and a key figure in organizational change leadership. Together with Dr. Kirk, they dive deep into what it takes to create impactful leadership cultures, the role of meetings in driving or derailing productivity, and how leaders can foster collaboration in environments dominated by changing technology. This episode is filled with practical strategies, actionable insights, and a fresh perspective on leadership—from managing your team more effectively to improving daily interactions.Tune in to learn how to transform not just your leadership style but the culture of your entire organization while embracing a mindset of continuous improvement. Don’t miss Evan Unger’s valuable wisdom and Dr. Kirk’s thoughtful reflections in the launch of this trailblazing third season!🎧 Join the Sound Leadership with DJ community! 🎧🎵 Subscribe and share our podcast for valuable insights and amazing beats! 🎵🔴 YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Soundleadership/streams⁠👔 LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/soundleadership/?viewAsMember=true⁠🎧 Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/soundleadershipwithdj⁠❤️⁠ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sound-leadership-with-dj-115806146/⁠🍎 Apple Music: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-leadership-with-dj/id1689938569⁠🛍️ Amazon Music: ⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cba9a4cc-5056-4ae2-ba4c-a5eef068a9c9/sound-leadership-with-dj⁠

June 2, 2025Episode 631 min

Effective Leadership: Andrea Swanner's Approach to Hands-On Management

Welcome to "Sound Leadership with DJ"! In this episode, we have the distinct pleasure of hosting Andrea Swanner, a dynamic leader with over two decades of experience in various leadership roles. Andrea is not only a thriving business owner, overseeing NBA Notary and Business Services, but she is also a dedicated mother, wife, and multi-business entrepreneur. Her career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to servant leadership, a philosophy that has guided her through significant milestones and challenging leadership roles. Andrea's passion for serving her community and her family stems from deeply rooted values instilled by her parents, which continue to be the cornerstone of her leadership approach today. Andrea Swanner is the driving force behind NBA Notary and Business Services, where her leadership strategies revolve around servant leadership, working directly alongside her team, and fostering an environment of collaboration and mutual respect. Her leadership journey started early, being pushed into roles of responsibility, and she has continuously embraced opportunities for growth and development. Andrea’s impactful leadership style is characterized by leading by example, effective communication, and hands-on involvement. These principles have helped her navigate complex situations, such as supervising friends and balancing personal relationships with professional responsibilities. Don’t miss this episode to learn about Andrea’s experiences, her approach to mentorship, and how she leverages her leadership skills to make a difference in her community and business. - Connect with Andrea Swanner: - andrea@mbanotaryandbusiness.com - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaswanner/ - andreaswanner.com - 🎧 Join the Sound Leadership with DJ community! 🎧 🎵 Subscribe and share our podcast for valuable insights and amazing beats! 🎵 🔴 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Soundleadership/streams 👔 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/soundleadership/?viewAsMember=true 🎧 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/soundleadershipwithdj ❤️ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sound-leadership-with-dj-115806146/ 🍎 Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-leadership-with-dj/id1689938569 🛍️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cba9a4cc-5056-4ae2-ba4c-a5eef068a9c9/sound-leadership-with-dj

May 6, 202548 min

Exploring Work-Life Balance and Self-Care in Leadership with Jason Stonehouse

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Sound Leadership with DJ." In today's conversation, we welcome Jason Stonehouse, an accomplished executive coach with over 30 years of leadership experience. Jason is not only the founder of Life in Process, LLC, but also an author dedicated to guiding leaders through the maze of stress and anxiety towards a path of meaningful leadership. Throughout this episode, Jason shares his journey of recovery from severe anxiety and imposter syndrome, emphasizing the importance of addressing internal struggles for sustainable growth. We'll explore his unique insights into leadership expectations, the nuances of motivating volunteers beyond monetary incentives, and how effective leadership aligns with organizational goals. Join us as we dive deep into the art of self-leadership, taking personal responsibility, and the continuous quest for personal transformation. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just stepping into a leadership role, this episode offers valuable perspectives to inspire your leadership journey. -Connect with Jason Stonehouse:- jasonstonehouse.com- lifeinprocess.com/fear- linkedin.com/in/jason-stonehouse--🎧 Join the Sound Leadership with DJ community! 🎧🎵 Subscribe and share our podcast for valuable insights and amazing beats! 🎵🔴 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Soundleadership/streams👔 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/soundleadership/?viewAsMember=true🎧 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/soundleadershipwithdj❤️ iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sound-leadership-with-dj-115806146/🍎 Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-leadership-with-dj/id1689938569🛍️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cba9a4cc-5056-4ae2-ba4c-a5eef068a9c9/sound-leadership-with-dj