Leading Locally: A Podcast by Leadership Lee County

In this episode of Leading Locally, Kristen Reeder sits down with Stewart Mills to discuss an unlikely leadership lesson that emerged through the world of adventure racing. Stewart shares how trust, humility, and a willingness to be led transformed not only his racing experience but also an important professional relationship. Together, they explore the power of finding common ground, working thro...

In this episode of Leading Locally , Kristen sits down with Auburn City Council member, Beth Witten, to explore what it truly means to lead with integrity, emotional intelligence, and healthy boundaries—especially in the often demanding world of public service. Beth shares candid reflections from her leadership journey, including the importance of managing expectations, setting boundaries in a 24/...

In this episode of Leading Locally , Kristen sits down with Mark Coxwell, founder of Butcher Paper BBQ, to unpack a leadership journey rooted in service, resilience, and community impact. From hosting backyard barbecue parties to building a food truck by hand, Mark shares how taking small steps (even before he had everything figured out) eventually led to something much bigger than a business. Mar...

As the year comes to a close, we’re taking time to reflect on what leadership really looks like in our community. In this special year-end wrap-up episode, we’re joined by Christina Kluttz, owner of MAK Media, for a behind-the-scenes conversation about the leaders we’ve heard from this year, and the lessons that stayed with us. From authentic leadership and stepping into discomfort, to the power o...

In this inspiring episode of Leading Locally , we sit down with Rene Waldrop — Executive Director of Our House, former attorney, teacher, community advocate, and a leader fueled by purpose. Rene shares her journey from a 20-year law career to following a calling she could no longer ignore: serving children and families in Auburn’s public housing communities. What began as a small, heartfelt dream...

In this episode of Leading Locally, host Kristen sits down with Craig Hyatt, co-owner of Our Home Pharmacy, to talk about what it truly means to lead with integrity and heart. From his small-town upbringing on Chandler Mountain to serving in the Navy and launching a community-centered pharmacy, Craig’s story is one of faith, grit, and purpose. He shares how viewing people through the lens of value...

Robb Taylor, head coach for Auburn’s wheelchair basketball team and Athletic Director of Auburn Adapted Athletics, joins us to share his philosophy of leading through building relationships and understanding. In this episode, Robb opens up about his leadership style—why he leads with love, how he balances accountability with care, and why he believes the true measure of a legacy isn’t wins and med...

When life didn’t go according to her perfectly planned timeline, Kim Hudson discovered that margin is often where purpose can be found. After earning her law degree, Kim set aside her legal career when her husband, Tim, was drafted to play Major League Baseball. What looked like a detour became an open door leading her into nonprofit work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and ultimately to founding...

What does it take to lead with integrity, unity, and purpose? Pastor Clifford Jones of Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church joins us for a powerful conversation about the importance of accountability, building trust, and reconciling people through leadership. From navigating conflict and encouraging healthy change to choosing your inner circle wisely, Pastor Jones shares how leaders can stay gr...

Rusty Prewett knows what it means to pivot with purpose. After nearly 15 years in the insurance world, he recognized the industry was shifting and so was he. In this episode, Rusty shares how he transitioned from insurance to launching Prewett Pest Control, a business built on adaptability and people-first values. From building trust in a new industry to hiring the right team and developing leader...

At 26 years old, Eloise Stewart walked away from teaching design courses at Auburn University and stepped into the unknown. With no guarantees, she started Eloise Design Co. — a business built on helping others discover who they are and communicate it clearly. Nine years later, she’s grown a thriving brand rooted in intentionality, purpose, and deep connection. In this episode, Eloise shares the p...

In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy Gray, a former NC State football player turned entrepreneur, community leader, and Alabama State Representative for the 83rd District. From his early days in Opelika to playing sports and stepping into politics, Jeremy shares how leadership, influence, and personal branding have shaped his journey.  He discusses the importance of influence over authority, l...

Welcome to the first episode of Leading Locally! We're excited to feature leaders within our community and highlight the impact they're having in Lee County, Alabama.  Our first guest is Todd Shackett, President of Southern Union State Community College, who shows us how leadership skills are transferrable as he takes us through his career starting in manufacturing to leading a strong te...