Ep. 21 Leaning into Fear: Ellen Min on Learning, Leading, and Living

In this heartfelt episode of the Thinking CAAP podcast, co-hosts Beck Moore and Heather Holloway sit down with Ellen Min, educator, DEI leader, and passionate community-builder, for an honest, empowering conversation about what it means to lead with humanity. Ellen shares stories from her journey as a second-generation Korean American, reflecting on the early language barriers, classroom experiences, and personal mentors that shaped her purpose-driven leadership style. From her start in education to launching a DEI council at her school, Ellen unpacks how personal connection, cultural awareness, and vulnerability are at the heart of every meaningful system of care. They explore practical ways leaders can foster inclusion and joy in the workplace from creating personalized support systems for teams, to celebrating small wins, to embracing rest during transitions. Whether you're navigating your own career shift or looking for new ways to lead with empathy, this episode is full of insights on how to be brave, be curious, and build belonging wherever you go. Discover more about Ellen Min: Website: https://www.ellenmin.me/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-min/ Discover more about the Thinking CAAP podcast: https://www.thecaap.org/the-thinkingcaap-podcast-blog