First, Next, Only: Trailblazing Leadership with Justin Hilton

In this powerful episode, Leadership Akron President and CEO Justin Hilton joins host Todd Bertsch to explore what it truly means to be a trailblazer. From his journey as the first African-American architect intern under Robert P. Madison to his leadership across higher education, corporate, and nonprofit sectors, Justin shares lessons on courage, context, and curiosity. He opens up about vulnerability, faith, mentorship, and the power of designing not just a career—but a life. A conversation filled with wisdom, humility, and hope for the next generation of leaders.  Discussion points from this episode: People over tasks as a transferable leadership principle Building a personal board for wisdom, peers, and service The legacy of Robert P. Madison and the gift of belief Reframing sleep disorder and limits into resilience Redefining success as who you become in pursuit Using design thinking to architect your life Art, vulnerability, and meeting your past self Practical steps to schedule your inner circle Mental fitness tools for stress, clarity, and growth https://www.toddbertsch.com/podcast/trailblazing-leadership-with-justin-hilton Thanks for listening! We appreciate you. Follow us at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddmbertsch/  https://www.facebook.com/theboltwithtoddb  https://www.instagram.com/theboltwithtoddb/  https://www.youtube.com/@theboltwithtoddb   ⚡ Ready to ignite lasting transformation in your team or event? Book me for keynotes, corporate training, or Positive Intelligence® coaching at ToddBertsch.com