Today, most people know Joy Eakins as the businesswoman behind Cornerstone Data, the successful and fast-growing consulting firm based in Wichita. Her business acumen even landed her as the Wichita Chamber Chair in 2023, where she both challenged and encouraged our small business community.

That’s the Joy most people see, the business leader, but I’ve come to know a different side of Joy Eakins – a principled fighter – and her story is worth sharing.

We talk about the challenges she’s overcome, her time on the Wichita School Board, and I ask her what our state needs in its next Governor and if she is going to run? I hope you enjoy the discussion with my friend, Joy Eakins.

In my view, the most important levels of government are found closest to home at the local level. Where services that impact our lives happen every day. City government, county government, and particularly, our local school boards have enormous influence on the health and prosperity of our community. And one of the most important figures working to help shape the largest school district in the entire state is Diane Albert, USD 259 Board of Education President. Wichita Public Schools is in a pivotal season where decisions are being made by 7 board members and the Superintendent. And they will undoubtedly have generational impact. In this episode, Diane and I talk about these decisions, these challenges, and so much more. I hope you enjoy this conversation with my friend, Diane Albert.

I learned early in sports and business that a big part of personal growth requires you to guard your influences. You have to be very selective on who you allow to speak into your life, and for me in this season, I have one specific man I’ve invited into that space, Damon Young.

On a regular basis, I seek out Damon to get feedback and counsel on multiple issues, and I’ve continued to be inspired by his heart and his vision for our community. From his work in both the private and non-profit organizations, and now as CEO of Lead Wichita, Damon and I talk about all that he’s learned at each of these stops and what he sees as challenges and opportunities for our community.