Épisodes

  • Redefining Credibility and Confidence as a Millennial Leader | Michael Quattrochi

    Redefining Credibility and Confidence as a Millennial Leader | Michael Quattrochi
    Jul 22 2025
    In this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, host Cassie Tucker sits down with Michael Quattrochi, a millennial partner at Cornerstone Wealth Advisors, to explore what it means to lead confidently in a traditional industry. Michael opens up about his early leadership journey, the pivotal lessons that shaped his approach, and how he earned trust in a space where tenure often defines credibility. Together, they discuss the unique advantages millennial leaders bring to the table, how to bridge generational communication gaps, and why mentorship continues to be a cornerstone of his growth. Whether you’re just starting out or navigating leadership at a higher level, this episode is full of practical wisdom and inspiration for anyone looking to lead with integrity and impact.

    Episode Takeaways:
    • Why building trust as a young leader requires both competence and humility

    • How millennial leaders are redefining success and communication in legacy industries

    • Michael’s personal leadership evolution—from early lessons to current philosophies

    • The role of mentorship in shaping strong leaders, and how to pay it forward

    • What confidence looks like in leadership when tenure doesn’t match experience

    • Redefining success as a leader: fulfillment, purpose, and long-term impact
    Important Links:
    • Connect with Michael: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikequattrochi/
    • Foundation Website: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/
    • Monthly Newsletter: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/newsletter
    • Support the Foundation: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/get-involved
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    31 min
  • Emotional Intelligence and Adaptability in a Changing World | Brian Nakamura

    Emotional Intelligence and Adaptability in a Changing World | Brian Nakamura
    Jul 8 2025
    In this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, host Cassie Tucker sits down with Dr. Brian Nakamura, Leadership Crucible Foundation board member and professor at Texas A&M’s Bush School of Government and Public Service. Drawing from over two decades of experience in local government and higher education, Dr. Nakamura shares his insights on what the next generation of leaders truly need to succeed—from cultivating resilience and emotional intelligence to leading diverse teams with empathy and trust. Whether you’re a student, early-career professional, or simply navigating leadership in today’s fast-changing world, this conversation offers grounded, actionable wisdom to help you lead with integrity, adaptability, and confidence.


    Episode Takeaways:
    • Adaptability is essential: Today’s leaders must learn to embrace and anticipate change, not avoid it.
    • Resilience is more than recovery: It’s the ability to thrive through adversity by learning from it.
    • Emotional intelligence matters: Skills like empathy, self-awareness, and relational agility are key to long-term leadership success.
    • Listening is a superpower: The best leaders lead by learning first—then acting with clarity.
    • Trust and collaboration go hand-in-hand: Young leaders must intentionally foster open communication and connection across generations.
    • Lifelong learning is non-negotiable: Effective leadership is rooted in curiosity, humility, and continual growth.
    • Humility builds credibility: True leaders leave room for others, ask questions, and acknowledge what they don’t know.
    • Relationships drive impact: Leadership is ultimately about people—serving them, growing with them, and building something that lasts.


    Important Links:
    • Connect with Brian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-nakamura-a1a14635/
    • Foundation Website: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/
    • Monthly Newsletter: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/newsletter
    • Support the Foundation: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/get-involved
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    34 min
  • What Tomorrow’s Leaders Need Most | Chief Randy Bruegman

    What Tomorrow’s Leaders Need Most | Chief Randy Bruegman
    Jun 17 2025
    In this powerful episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, hosts Cassie Tucker and Berlin Maza are joined by Chief Randy Bruegman (Ret.), founder of The Leadership Crucible Foundation, for a timely and transparent conversation about what emerging leaders need to thrive in 2025 and beyond. Together, they explore the evolving demands of leadership in a world shaped by rapid change, the enduring values that remain essential, and the Foundation’s mission to develop resilient, purpose-driven leaders through mentorship and crucible experiences. Chief B reflects on the legacy he hopes to build, why this work matters now more than ever, and the one message he’d leave with the next generation of changemakers.

    Key Takeaways:
    • The most critical trends impacting young leaders in 2025, from AI disruption to remote work.
    • Why timeless leadership principles—like integrity, self-awareness, and trust—still matter most.
    • The meaning and power of “crucible moments” in shaping character and confidence.
    • Chief Bruegman’s personal connection to this work and his vision for the Foundation's future.
    • How today’s young professionals can begin building their leadership legacy now.
    • Encouragement for leaders to slow down, reflect, and lead with intention—especially in uncertain times.
    Important Links:
    • Foundation Website: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/
    • Monthly Newsletter: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/newsletter
    • Support the Foundation: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/get-involved
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    24 min
  • Imposter Syndrome, Inclusion, and Impact | Berlin Maza

    Imposter Syndrome, Inclusion, and Impact | Berlin Maza
    Jun 3 2025
    In this season 2 premiere, we welcome Berlin Maza—fire captain, mentor, nonprofit leader, and now co-host of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast. Berlin shares the personal and professional moments that shaped his approach to leadership, from his early experiences as a training officer to his current work advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in public safety. With a message rooted in resilience, authenticity, and service, Berlin offers compelling insights for emerging leaders navigating self-doubt, seeking mentorship, and striving to create meaningful impact.

    Episode Takeaways:
    • Leadership starts with service: Berlin’s career reflects a commitment to mentorship, training, and helping others reach their potential.
    • Mentorship is essential: Finding (and being) a mentor can transform your personal and professional growth.
    • Imposter syndrome is real—but beatable: Berlin shares how he navigated self-doubt and leaned into purpose-driven leadership.
    • Diversity isn’t optional: Inclusive leadership is not just the future—it’s the foundation of any strong organization or community.
    • Young leaders need to cultivate self-awareness: Confidence, humility, and a growth mindset are more critical than ever.
    Important Links:
    • Connect with Berlin: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/berlin-maza
    • Foundation Website: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/
    • Monthly Newsletter: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/newsletter
    • Support the Foundation: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/get-involved
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    30 min
  • Navigating Career Development | Disney's Brandon Rhodes

    Navigating Career Development | Disney's Brandon Rhodes
    Jul 10 2024
    This week, Cassie sits down with Brandon Rhodes, Program Experience Manager with Disney Internships and Programs. Brandon shares his journey into early career talent development and offers invaluable insights into the essential qualities and skills young professionals need to develop to become effective leaders.

    Episode Takeaways:
    • Discussion on the crisis in leadership, highlighting the need for integrity, empathy, and honesty.
    • Exploration of the mission of the Youth Cohort within The Leadership Crucible Foundation, emphasizing mindset shifts for young leaders.
    • Encouragement for listeners to share their own leadership journeys and insights, recognizing the power of personal narratives in driving positive change.
    Important Links:
    • Brandon's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandondrhodes/
    • Foundation Website: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/
    • Monthly Newsletter: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/newsletter
    • Support the Foundation: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/get-involved
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    40 min
  • Mindet Strategies for Young Professionals | Round Table Pt 2

    Mindet Strategies for Young Professionals | Round Table Pt 2
    Jun 26 2024
    Welcome to the first Round Table discussion for the Leaders of Tomorrow program, presented by The Leadership Crucible Foundation. Cassie Tucker, the host, sits down with several seasons leaders and young professionals to discuss bridging generational gaps. This is part two of a two-part discussion on mindset, skillset, and challenges faced by young professionals.

    Round Table Members:
    • Randy Bruegman - Founder of The Foundation + Retired Fire Chief
    • Cassie Tucker - Strategic Advisor to the Board + Entrepreneur
    • Michelle Baker, MBA - Former Disney Leader + Leadership Coach
    • Brian Nakamura - Leader at The Bush School
    • Brielle Wohlenhaus - Company Culture + Communication Expert
    • AJ Baker - Co-Founder of Stoneledge Enrichment

    Important Links:
    • Foundation Website: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/
    • Monthly Newsletter: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/newsletter
    • Support the Foundation: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/get-involved
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    20 min
  • Challenges Faced by Young Professionals | Round Table Pt 1

    Challenges Faced by Young Professionals | Round Table Pt 1
    Jun 12 2024
    Welcome to the first Round Table discussion for the Leaders of Tomorrow program, presented by The Leadership Crucible Foundation. Cassie Tucker, the host, sits down with several seasons leaders and young professionals to discuss bridging generational gaps. This is part one of a two-part discussion on mindset, skillset, and challenges faced by young professionals.

    Round Table Members:
    • Randy Bruegman - Founder of The Foundation + Retired Fire Chief
    • Cassie Tucker - Strategic Advisor to the Board + Entrepreneur
    • Michelle Baker, MBA - Former Disney Leader + Leadership Coach
    • Brian Nakamura - Leader at The Bush School
    • Brielle Wohlenhaus - Company Culture + Communication Expert
    • AJ Baker - Co-Founder of Stoneledge Enrichment


    Important Links:
    • Foundation Website: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/
    • Monthly Newsletter: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/newsletter
    • Support the Foundation: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/get-involved
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    34 min
  • Leading Yourself + The Importance of Emotional Intelligence | Michelle Baker

    Leading Yourself + The Importance of Emotional Intelligence | Michelle Baker
    Jun 5 2024
    Welcome to another insightful episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast, presented by The Leadership Crucible Foundation. In this episode, Cassie Tucker sits down with Michelle Baker of Stoneledge Enrichment (former Disney). Michelle brings a wealth of knowledge on leading oneself effectively. We’ll explore the critical role of emotional intelligence in leadership, dive into the concept of inner alignment, and discuss practical strategies for maintaining well-being and effective communication in the digital age.

    Episode Takeaways:
    • Practical tips and strategies for leaders to enhance their emotional intelligence.
    • Insights on how young professionals can lead themselves by setting personal goals, maintaining discipline, and seeking continuous growth.
    • Explanation of what inner alignment means to Michelle and its importance for young leaders, focusing on staying true to one's values and purpose.
    • Tips on how to communicate more effectively with others, both in personal life and the workplace, especially in the context of increasing digital interactions.
    Important Links:
    • Connect with Michelle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellebakerstoneledge/
    • Foundation Website: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/
    • Monthly Newsletter: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/newsletter
    • Support the Foundation: https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/get-involved
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    31 min