Episode Details

In this conversation, Eric Ellis and Tommie Lewis are joined by Diara Shaw, 2026 Illuminate Leadership Conference Curator, and Terrance Watson, a multi-year participant, for a real, human dialogue on what it takes to grow through challenge and lead with character. 

From “permission to fail,” to why people connect with people (not tools), this episode explores the kind of leadership that shows up in everyday life: in mentorship, in transitions, in setbacks, and in the decision to keep going. 

You’ll also hear about the Illuminate Leadership Institute and its residential summer leadership conference designed to support young people (and families) during a critical gap period, building confidence, emotional intelligence, and purpose-driven leadership through real-world exposure and community. 

Learn more / nominate a student: 

• Website: ili-leaders.org
• Email: illuminateleadershipinstitute@gmail.com
• Phone: (513) 421-2300

2026 Conference Dates: June 21–26 (Residential Experience)

Leadership development, Personal growth, Mentorship, Youth leadership, Emotional intelligence, Character and resilience, Confidence building, Coaching and mentorship programs, Community leadership, Cincinnati leadership, Illuminate Leadership Institute, Illuminate Leadership Conference, Diversity Conversations 
 

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