Lead & Live Well

On this episode of Lead and Live Well, Erin Cox and Scott Knox sit down with Javier Juarez, Executive Director of the Latino Equity Fund at the Boston Foundation. Javier shares his journey from immigrating from Peru as a child to leading transformative philanthropic initiatives in Massachusetts.He opens up about the power of storytelling, the resilience he’s seen in immigrant communities, navigating burnout, and the lessons that have shaped his leadership. From being “the only one in the room” to building community power through philanthropy, Javier offers insights on leading with purpose, lifting voices, and making an impact that lasts.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, identity, and the ways we can all contribute to a more equitable future.Javier's Brown SpeechJavier's Ted Talk Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

In this episode, Erin Cox and Scott Knox welcome back leadership coach and author Siobhán O’Riordan to continue their deep dive into the power of generalists. Building on their previous discussion, Siobhán introduces key ideas from her new book Reframe, exploring what defines a generalist, why their careers often look nonlinear, and how their curiosity, adaptability, and pattern-connecting strengths are uniquely suited to today’s fast-changing world. Together, they reflect on their own zigzag career paths, the environments where generalists thrive, and why this often unseen group is critical for navigating complexity, leading change, and driving impact across organizations.Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

In this engaging conversation, Scott and Erin sit down with Divya Mani to explore her intentional, values-driven career journey across consulting, brand management, and the education sector. Divya reflects on the choices and chance moments that shaped her path, how becoming a parent reframed her approach to work and life, and why she believes education is the ultimate lever for expanding opportunity. She also shares practical tools for leadership, along with her hard-earned wisdom on growth, boundaries, and continuous learning. This episode is full of insight, warmth, and honest reflection for anyone navigating their own evolving path.Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

In this episode of Lead and Live Well, hosts Erin Cox and Scott Knox dive into a rich conversation with the executive director of the Community Foundation for Metro West. From launching his career at City Year to navigating corporate giving at Target, his story is a masterclass in blending intention with serendipity. Discover how he transformed chance encounters into pivotal career moves, built bridges across the nonprofit, corporate, and philanthropic worlds, and learned the art of managing up. With honest reflections and sharp insights, this episode offers a fresh take on leadership, community impact, and the magic of meaningful connections.Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

In this special tribute episode of Lead and Live Well, we celebrate the extraordinary life and impact of Andrea McGrath, a beloved friend, colleague, and leader in the social impact sector. Andrea was a tireless connector, a beacon of positivity, and a true champion of ideas and people.Join us as friends, colleagues, and admirers share heartfelt remembrances, recounting Andrea's boundless energy, her unmatched ability to bring people together, and the generosity that defined her life. Whether you knew Andrea personally or are learning about her for the first time, these stories offer inspiration to live with the same love, curiosity, and purpose that she embodied.Andrea’s legacy reminds us to be connectors, cheerleaders, and bright lights in our own communities. Listen in, reflect, and carry her spirit forward.Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

Miriam Ortiz joins Scott and Erin on Lead and Live Well to share her remarkable leadership story, rooted in advocacy, empowerment, and a commitment to creating pathways for others. As a leader in workforce development and a passionate advocate for equity, Miriam dives into the challenges and triumphs of her career, the lessons learned from navigating systemic barriers, and her vision for liberatory leadership. This conversation is filled with practical advice, inspiring reflections, and the wisdom of someone who leads with purpose and authenticityHosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

Join Erin Cox and Scott Knox on this episode of Lead and Live Well as they interview Tracy Skelly, the dynamic founder of the Little Cocoa Bean Company. Tracy discusses her unique career trajectory, from her early days in theater to her impactful work in education and food access. She also delves into the creation of her business, emphasizing the significance of cultural cuisine and nutritious food for children. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with inspiration, practical advice, and Tracy's powerful reflections on intentionality and legacy.Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

Join hosts Erin Cox and Scott Knox in a thought-provoking conversation with Casey Johnson, a leader in the nonprofit world and current national leader at the GreenLight Fund. Casey reflects on her career journey, the personal and professional transitions she's made, and her experience building high-impact programs across multiple communities. The discussion covers the challenges of scaling nonprofit initiatives, the power of strategic investments in social ventures, and the critical role of empathy and relationship-building in leadership. Get inspired by Casey’s insights on how to manage growth, sustainability, and mission-driven impact in the ever-evolving nonprofit landscape.Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

Join Erin Cox as she flies solo on this episode of Lead and Live Well with guest Gaby King Morse, an influential leader with over 25 years of experience in the non-profit and for-profit sectors. Gaby, now the President and CEO of the Center for Women in Enterprise, discusses pivotal moments in her career, from working in her family's business, to figuring out how to fundraise when the moment required it, to becoming a powerhouse fundraiser and organizational leader. Gaby’s insights into effective leadership, building trust within teams, and the importance of clear and kind communication are sure to make you think, and Gaby and Erin’s stories of the time they shared at uAspire just may make you belly laugh. This episode is not to be missed! Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

In this episode of Lead and Live Well, Erin Cox and Scott Knox interview Siobhán O'Riordan, a former teacher turned Gallup-certified CliftonStrengths coach and social sector consultant. Siobhán shares her career journey, highlighting pivotal moments influenced by both intention and chance. Ever an educator, Siobhán offers practical advice on understanding and leveraging your strengths, how reflection and feedback can fuel personal and professional growth, and strategies to articulate your multi-faceted skills. This episode - and much of Siobhán’s work - will be particularly intriguing for our listeners who are “generalists,” which Siobhán describes as follows:“A generalist’s expertise is intentionally broad; they excel at understanding an organization as a whole entity, identifying and filling gaps, and seizing opportunities to catalyze and champion new projects. Generalists are both interested in figuring out complex problems and finding ways in which they can seed solutions and help the team meet the resulting challenges.”Join Scott, Erin, and Siobhán - all Generalists themselves - for this enlightening conversation!Curious to know more about Generalists? Read the post that started Erin and Scott on this conversation. Curious about how to further define your value as a Generalist, this post will help. And this post provides steps to take for those who struggle with imposter syndrome, a frequent challenge for Generalists.Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

In this lively episode, Erin Cox and Scott Knox sit down with Naomi Roth-Gaudette, a dynamic leader in the social impact world. Naomi shares the captivating story of her leadership journey, from her early days as a PIRG organizer to founding her own consulting firm, NRG Consulting. Full of energy and wisdom, Naomi dives into the importance of community, the power of networking, and the value of saying 'yes' to new opportunities. A must-listen for aspiring leaders and community builders alike.Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

This episode of Lead and Live Well features a heartfelt conversation with Kamalah Fletcher, who brings over two decades of non-profit leadership experience to the table. Hosts Erin Cox and Scott Knox explore Kamalah's story, from the challenges she faced in her early career to founding her own transformative agency. Kamalah’s reflections on turning personal needs into professional strengths and maintaining wellness amidst demanding work are both profound and practical. Tune in to learn from Kamalah's rich experiences and gain insights on leading a balanced and impactful life.Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

In this illuminating of Lead and Live Well, hosts Erin Cox and Scott Knox engage in a profound conversation with Yi-Chin Chen, the Executive Director of Friends of the Children Boston. Sharing her remarkable journey from a high school dropout to a leading figure in the social impact space, Yi-Chin reflects on the pivotal moments, challenges, and mentors that shaped her leadership philosophy. With her unique perspective as a "third culture Bostonian," Yi-Chin discusses the role of identity, the power of embracing chaos, and the importance of nurturing one's multifaceted self for impactful leadership. Through stories of personal growth and professional evolution, Yi-Chin offers invaluable insights into leading with authenticity, fostering resilience, and the ongoing quest for work-life harmony. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the nuances of social impact leadership and the transformative power of embracing one's own path.Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

In this insightful episode of Lead and Live Well, hosts Erin Cox and Scott Knox sit down with Alex McCray, a seasoned veteran of the social sector with nearly 30 years of experience. Alex's dynamic career spans both the nonprofit direct service and funder sides of the sector and highlights his passion for education and the arts.  Listeners will gain valuable insights as Alex discusses the importance of mindfulness, patience, and authentic leadership; the significance of understanding communication styles within teams; the necessity of integrating work and life; and the power of being intentional and present. Alex also touches upon his personal practices of mindfulness, including silent retreats, which have profoundly influenced his approach to leadership and personal well-being. This conversation is not only a deep dive into Alex McCray’s impactful journey but also a session filled with practical advice for leaders in all sectors. Tune in to learn how to lead and live well from an individual who embodies these principles through his work and life.Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

Join us on this episode Lead and Live Well as Erin Cox and Scott Knox welcome the incredibly distinguished Dr. Melinda Day. Dr. Day's career has included leadership roles in organizational development, non-profit management, higher education reform, and workforce development. She currently serves as the Chief Impact Officer at the Food Bank of the Rockies and as the Executive Officer of Metier Education. Tune in as Dr. Day shares her journey of curiosity and determination, from tackling systemic inequalities to broader community engagement, all while balancing her multifaceted professional life and her role as a mother. Dr. Day's candid discussion about her determination, drive, and the role of joy in her work is both enlightening and motivational. This is an inspiring conversation you won't want to miss!Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen

Welcome to Lead & Live Well! In each episode, friends and co-hosts Erin Cox and Scott Knox sit down with a different leader in the social impact world to learn about their leadership journey. They’ll have wide-ranging discussions, with topics including career transitions, blending work and life, pathways to leadership, experiences with burnout, and when they had to “shake off the ‘shoulds’” to carve their own path forward. We can't wait for you to join us on this journey! Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by Erin Cox and M. Scott KnoxEdited and Produced by Stephanie Cohen