Lead for Good: A Conversation with Matt vandenBerg - Episode 6

Matt VandenBerg | Managing Vision, Elevating Sights, Building Momentum In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Matt VandenBerg, the 17th President of Ohio Wesleyan University, for a wide ranging and energizing conversation about what it truly takes to lead with boldness, clarity, and conviction. From an unexpected pivot away from medical school to a deliberate beeline toward college presidency, Matt shares the formative moments, mentors, and mindset that shaped his leadership journey. Along the way, he unpacks powerful insights that extend far beyond higher education and into the heart of nonprofit leadership. This episode centers on three transformational leadership themes: Creating a Shared Vision Matt explains why nobody rows hard for a boat they do not believe in. He shares how leaders must not only study culture, but be seen studying it. From shadowing staff across campus to inviting open dialogue, he demonstrates how shared ownership fuels alignment and innovation. Raising Collective Aspirations It is hard to rally people around “stay afloat.” Matt makes the case that leaders must articulate a compelling picture of a better tomorrow and position others as heroes in that story. As he puts it, organizations do not simply exist to preserve themselves. They exist to leverage what they have to create a better world. Building and Sustaining Momentum Momentum is contagious. Wins validate vision. Matt recounts bold, strategic moves including a reimagined presidential inauguration and a fully funded $45 million library transformation announced in one sweeping moment. His message is clear: enthusiasm and progress generate confidence, trust, and further investment. Throughout the conversation, Matt emphasizes humility, clarity, consistency, action, grace, and courage. He challenges leaders to avoid stagnation, embrace calculated risk, and swing for the parking lot rather than simply protect what already exists. If you are a nonprofit leader seeking to galvanize your team, elevate your organization’s ambitions, and sustain forward momentum, this episode delivers both inspiration and practical wisdom. Listen now to Episode 6 of Lead for Good and discover how shared vision, raised sights, and disciplined momentum can transform your leadership and your impact.