Catalysts for Change

What does it look like to lead an organization you've spent nearly two decades growing inside of? In this episode of Catalysts for Change, host Adam Lister sits down with Stephanie Coleman, President and CEO of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, for a candid conversation about stepping into the top seat and everything that comes with it.Stephanie joined the Chamber in 2008 and served in six different roles before being named CEO in 2025. She opens up about the real shift in mindset that comes with moving from deputy to chief, from executing plans to casting vision,  and why leading at a sustainable pace matters just as much as leading with urgency.Stephanie discusses the Chamber's Partnership 2030 economic development strategy and its three pillars: community vitality, mobility, and character, as well as bold goals, such as growing Chamber membership by 50% in five years. The conversation also gets personal. Stephanie reflects on the hardest leadership lesson she's learned, how she stays grounded outside the office, and what she wishes she had known in her first year as CEO. Thoughtful, honest, and full of practical wisdom, this episode is essential listening for anyone navigating a leadership transition or driving meaningful change in their community.Catalysts for Change is brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or visit catalystsforchangepod.com.Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

Season 3 of Catalysts for Change launches with a powerful conversation between Adam Lister and Nashville Sheriff Daron Hall, a leader who has spent more than two decades rethinking what public safety can look like.Sheriff Hall shares the defining question that has guided his career: not who commits crimes - but why. That perspective has led him to challenge long-held assumptions about incarceration, mental health, and the role of the criminal justice system.From his early fascination with criminology to his eye-opening experience representing the United States abroad, Hall reflects on the moment he realized the system wasn’t just imperfect, it was fundamentally misaligned. In many cases, he argues, jails have become the default solution for mental health crises, creating cycles that don’t address root causes.The conversation explores how Hall helped lead a bold shift in Nashville: building a behavioral care center alongside the jail to divert individuals in crisis away from incarceration and toward treatment. Along the way, he shares hard-earned lessons about leadership, navigating politics, building unlikely partnerships, and why meaningful change often requires both strategy and courage.This episode sets the tone for the season, highlighting leaders who are willing to question the system, rethink the problem, and take action to create lasting impact.Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In this episode of Catalysts for Change, Adam Lister sits down with Beth Harwell, Tennessee’s first female Speaker of the House and one of the state’s most influential political leaders. Over three decades in public service, Harwell helped shape landmark policy on education, welfare reform, taxation, and public health—often bridging deep divides through civility and pragmatic compromise.Harwell shares her journey from a young political science professor inspired by the Watergate hearings to becoming Speaker during one of Tennessee’s most transformative eras. She reflects on lessons learned from both sides of the aisle—why compromise isn’t weakness, how to lead in complex times, and why making people feel seen is the cornerstone of effective leadership.From repealing the state’s inheritance tax and advancing Tennessee Promise to navigating fierce debates over charter schools and even wine in grocery stores, Harwell reveals what it really takes to move meaningful change through divided government.This conversation is a study in humility, perseverance, and principled leadership—offering wisdom not just for public servants, but for anyone leading in high-stakes, high-pressure environments.Register to vote at https://vote.gov/.Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In this special bonus episode of Catalysts for Change, host Adam Lister addresses questions directly from listeners and community conversations—covering a range of topics, including politics, leadership, burnout, advocacy, and AI.Adam opens up about the myths around “buying politicians,” what frustrates him most about today’s political climate, and how he defines his work in strategy and advocacy. He also shares lessons on consistency, resilience, and the importance of staying mission-focused in a noisy, fast-changing world.You’ll hear stories about the origins of One12 Strategies, the philosophy behind small actions that lead to big impact, and candid reflections on leadership, burnout, and authenticity.If you enjoy this format, let us know! Comment on LinkedIn, send in your questions, and we’ll keep building future bonus episodes around the topics you care about most.Resources & Links to include:Catalysts for Change WebsiteFollow Adam on LinkedInLearn more about One12 StrategiesCatalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In this powerful episode of Catalysts for Change, Adam Lister talks with Alex Nelson, a corporate leader and dedicated community advocate whose journey from trauma to healing has shaped her life and leadership. By day, Alex drives global supply chain strategy in Nashville’s tech industry. Beyond her corporate role, she serves on the board of the Nashville Sexual Assault Center, where she has become a tireless advocate for survivors.Alex opens up about her own path through therapy, the courage it took to share her story publicly, and the lessons she’s learned about empathy, authenticity, and servant leadership. From organizing an art room at the Center to co-chairing its largest fundraising gala, Alex shows how small acts of service can lead to transformative change. She also reflects on policy advocacy, community building, and why sharing our stories—no matter how painful—can break shame and open the door to healing.This conversation is a reminder that vulnerability is strength, that leadership begins with empathy, and that no act of service is ever too small to make a difference.Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In this episode of Catalysts for Change, Adam Lister speaks with Krissy DeAlejandro, Executive Director of Tennessee Achieves, the nonprofit powering the Tennessee Promise scholarship program. From growing up in rural McMinnville as a first-generation college student to leading one of the most ambitious college access programs in the country, Krissy’s journey is defined by resilience, humility, and a relentless belief in the potential of every student.She shares candid stories about feeling unprepared at college, the moments that gave her the confidence to persevere, and how those experiences now fuel her mission to remove barriers for students across Tennessee. Krissy also reflects on the pillars of Tennessee Achieves—last-dollar scholarships, mentoring, and community service—and the challenges and lessons learned in scaling from a local pilot to a statewide initiative.This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership often comes not from having all the answers, but from listening, persisting, and using our struggles to pave the way for others.Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In this episode of Catalysts for Change, Adam Lister sits down with Sam Davidson, CEO of the Nashville Entrepreneur Center, to explore what it means to choose purpose over comfort. Twice in his career, Sam walked away from stability; first from a promising corporate career and later from a thriving company he co-founded to follow a deeper calling.Sam shares his journey from launching Cool People Care and shaping youth activism, to scaling Batch, a beloved Nashville gift company, and eventually selling it during the pandemic. Along the way, he reveals lessons on knowing when to pivot, listening to customers, and embedding service and community into business strategy. Today, he leads the Nashville Entrepreneur Center with the belief that entrepreneurship is never a solo act—it’s powered by community, connection, and purpose.Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In this episode of Catalysts for Change, Adam Lister sits down with Tara Scarlett, President & CEO of the Scarlett Family Foundation. Tara shares how becoming a Big Sister through Big Brothers Big Sisters transformed her perspective, leading her to reimagine what’s possible for students and families across Tennessee.Drawing from her career in both corporate marketing and philanthropy, Tara explains how data, relationships, and consistent care shape her leadership. She opens up about the Foundation’s journey—from awarding scholarships for business students to driving systemic change in early literacy, college readiness, and educator quality—and why listening is often the most strategic move a leader can make.Tara’s story is both personal and professional, blending her roles as a mentor, mother, and changemaker. It’s a conversation about showing up with heart, courage, and conviction to ensure that every student has the chance to thrive.Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

From growing up in one of Memphis’s most under-resourced neighborhoods to leading a statewide network of change-makers, Dr. Alfred Degrafinreid’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and leadership. In this episode of Catalysts for Change, Alfred—now President & CEO of Leadership Tennessee—reflects on the lessons that shaped his journey through government, higher education, and nonprofit leadership.He shares how losing his father at 14 sparked a sense of responsibility, how mentors and hard lessons in politics prepared him for bigger roles, and why authenticity and listening are the cornerstones of effective leadership. Alfred also talks about the importance of leaving your title at the door, building community across divides, and lifting others as you climb.Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a seasoned executive, or simply someone striving to make a difference, Alfred’s story is a reminder that true leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice—it’s about presence, humility, and impact.Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In Part Two of our conversation with Katie Dieckhaus and Todd Cruse, we turn toward the future of Voices for a Safer Tennessee. Building on the emotional origins shared in the first part of this conversation, Katy and Todd discuss how the organization is navigating disagreement, setting “rules of the road,” and creating sustainable strategies for long-term impact.They share lessons on intentional advocacy, balancing passion with pragmatism, and the importance of building trust through face-to-face conversations—even with those who disagree. Katy reflects on leading with kindness and hope in honor of her daughter Evelyn, while Todd underscores the role of data, discipline, and bipartisan collaboration in driving real change.This episode is about more than policy—it’s about resilience, leadership, and the power of turning unimaginable grief into a movement for a safer future.Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In this powerful episode of Catalysts for Change, host Adam Lister talks with Katy Dieckhaus—mother of nine-year-old Evelyn, one of the six victims of the Covenant School shooting—and Todd Cruse, board chair of Voices for a Safer Tennessee.Katy shares moving stories of Evelyn’s life and the ways her daughter’s spirit continues to guide her advocacy. Todd, a Republican gun owner and neighbor, reflects on how data and personal loss drew him into the movement for bipartisan, common-sense firearm safety. Together, they reveal how grief became a catalyst for action, building a coalition of 30,000 Tennesseans determined to create a safer future.This is Part 1 of their story—an honest conversation about loss, resilience, and the power of listening to create lasting change.Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In this episode, Adam Lister sits down with Sunny Bray, founder of Catalyst Collective and a champion for nonprofits and mission-driven organizations, from her early days in corporate sales to launching a community-first consultancy, Sunny shares how grief, grit, and bold purpose shaped her path. With honesty and insight, she reflects on building a business rooted in values, relationships, and the belief that nonprofit work deserves abundance, not scarcity.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why Sunny built a consultancy that puts nonprofit missions, not metrics, at the center of the work. How grief, motherhood, and mentorship reshaped her approach to leadership and boundaries.Why nonprofits need trusted partners, not just service providers—and how to find the right support.How to lead authentically, say no with confidence, and prioritize what truly matters.Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In this episode of Catalysts for Change, host Adam Lister welcomes Harry Allen—sixth-generation Nashvillian, co-founder of Studio Bank, and now Chief Financial Officer at Belmont University. Known for his values-based leadership and belief in building relationship capital, Harry shares how intentionality, service, and clarity of mission have guided every step of his unconventional journey. From launching a billion-dollar bank during a time of uncertainty to helping reimagine higher education, Harry opens up about risk, resilience, and the quiet power of staying true to your purpose.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow relationship capital compounds like financial capital—and how to build it authenticallyThe founding story of Studio Bank and what it taught Harry about risk, service, and purposeWhat leadership looks like when you prioritize impact over recognitionCatalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Catalysts For Change, host Adam Lister sits down with longtime Nashville civic leader Ralph Schulz, former CEO of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce. With decades of experience navigating growth, crisis, and transformation, Ralph shares what it takes to guide a city through massive change—without losing its soul. From economic development to situational leadership, Ralph reflects on the Nashville of yesterday, today, and tomorrow, offering practical wisdom and personal stories from his own journey.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeHow Ralph Schulz helped lead Nashville through booms, floods, and pandemicsWhat “situational leadership” looks like in practice—and why empathy mattersWhy films like 12 Angry Men and Twelve O’Clock High are in his leadership toolkitThe vision behind Nashville’s long-term economic transformationWhy investing in people—not credit—is the key to lasting impactCatalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In this episode of Catalysts for Change, Adam Lister sits down with David Mansouri, President and CEO of SCORE (State Collaborative on Reforming Education), to talk about the leadership lessons, policy wins, and long-view strategy behind Tennessee’s transformation in public education. David shares how a passion for politics and a background in music led him to a career in education policy—and how sustained, bipartisan commitment has taken Tennessee from the bottom ranks to a national leader in student achievement. The conversation dives into SCORE’s approach to collaboration, navigating political shifts, and why real change requires patience, purpose, and people who are willing to do the hard work.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Tennessee climbed from 45th to 13th in national education rankingsWhy bipartisan, long-term policy alignment was key to sustained changeHow to lead through political transitions while staying mission-focusedThe role of collaboration and humility in effective leadershipWhy small, clear goals—like one more 3rd grader reading on grade level—can drive big systems changeMentioned in This Episode: TN SCOREVanderbilt Study on Teacher EvaluationsSCORE TN 2030 ReportSCORE Policy Pillar Memo SeriesCatalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In this powerful kickoff episode of Catalysts for Change, host Adam Lister sits down with Randy Boyd — entrepreneur, education leader, and relentless change-maker — to unpack a career built on hustle, heart, and an unshakable mission to make things better.From starting college at 16 and launching a multi-million dollar business from the back of a van, to reshaping Tennessee’s higher education landscape with bold, people-first initiatives like Tennessee Promise and the Drive to 55, Randy’s story is a masterclass in vision-driven leadership. He shares hard-earned lessons on perseverance, the art of navigating challenges with grace, and why clear, candid conversations are the real catalyst for lasting impact.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why no one can make you quit — and how Randy internalized that truthHow entrepreneurial grit translated into groundbreaking public serviceThe behind-the-scenes story of turning a big, audacious education reform dream into realityHow clarity, candor, and community-building fuel lasting leadershipWhat Randy believes could make this the greatest decade in the University of Tennessee’s historyIf you’re looking for real-world inspiration on building a life of impact, staying true to your values, and leading with purpose — this conversation will light the fire.Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One 12 Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative