Joe Dumpson Leads with Empower

Joe Dumpson, Community Leader and Shift Manager for the State of Massachusetts Department of Youth Services, joins the Lead with Empower Podcast! I first met Joe, or as we call him "D", in the Fall of 2003 at the Mill Pond School. Joe was the in-house room supervisor at the time and quickly became a mentor to me at the Mill Pond School due to his ability to connect with and lead the youths we worked with. Joe shares his incredible story from being a youth/young adult who experienced challenges to becoming an adult who is advocating, leading, and inspiring youths in communities throughout Springfield, MA. 00:00: Episode Introduction and "Roll Call" Joe discusses the leadership challenges brought on by the pandemic; focusing on balancing work, distance learning, and family. Joe also shares the tremendous impact that Ed Tharion has had on him during a formative time in his life. Joe discusses the importance of leading "in the trenches" vs. leading from the safety of "a bubble". "I'm going to give you as much love as you need, but I'm going to provide the structure that you need as well." 33:45: From "Latchkey Kid" to Leader Joe shares stories from challenges he faced as a youth/young adult in Springfield and how those challenges shaped who he is today as a leader and as a person. We learn about how experiences at the Mill Pond School helped Joe mature into a community leader who is passionate about helping youths, young adults, and adults overcome and thrive! "To panic during chaos, does not make it better!" 54:54: "Steel Sharpens Steel" - Community Leadership in Action Joe discusses community initiatives that he has led; including the "Walking School Bus" for Springfield youths, Fitness Training for young adults/adults, and his Sunday Afternoon Men's Group - Steel Sharpens Steel "If you don't empty the trash can, it will empty itself" - It is important for men to find an outlet so negative emotions/feelings/experiences aren't buried. 74:15: "Finish the Drill" and Episode Closure We wrap up the episode with some rapid fire/rapid response questions with Joe. We settle the debate of who was the "Chess King" at the Mill Pond School, we hear advice Joe would give to his 15 year old self, Joe shares his definition of leadership, and more! Musical Credit to Matt Jaskot Find out more at https://lead-with-empower-podcast.pinecast.co