Building Equitable Futures: The Role of EJACE in Character Education - Part 2

Anchored Ambition: How Values Fuel Vision and Victory Brick by Brick

Today, we’re joined by a leader who embodies what this series is all about—leading with purpose, values, and deep personal conviction. Keith Poettker is the Chairman and CEO of Poettker Construction Company, a nationally respected firm known not just for what it builds, but how it builds—with integrity, trust, and heart. Under Keith’s leadership, Poettker Construction has grown in both reputation and reach. He was recently named the 2025 Most Admired CEO by the Charlotte Business Journal—an honor that reflects more than just business performance. It reflects character. Poettker Construction was founded by Keith’s father, the late Charles “Chuck” Poettker—a decorated Army veteran and a man remembered as much for his humility and values as for his accomplishments. Today, Keith carries forward that legacy, shaping not just the future of the company, but helping redefine what principled leadership looks like in today’s world.

The Power of Kindness with Danielle Brown and Michelle Greene

Michelle Greene, EVP and CIO of Cardinal Health, a Fortune 15 global leader in healthcare, and Danielle Brown, SVP and CIO of Whirlpool Corporation, a Fortune 500 innovator in home technology, join us for an inspiring conversation about leadership rooted in kindness, empathy, and responsibility. Greene shares how servant leadership and strong relationships have shaped her approach to navigating challenges with empathy and kindness while Brown reflects on integrity and adaptability as key drivers of her success in global IT leadership. Together, they explore how character-driven leadership empowers teams, fosters collaboration, and drives innovation in industries that touch millions of lives. Host: * Mike Park [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeltpark/], CEO of CharacterPlus [https://www.characterplus.org/] Guests:  * Danielle Brown [https://www.whirlpoolcorp.com/project/danielle-brown-senior-leadership-team.html], SVP and CIO of Whirlpool Corporation * Michelle Greene [https://www.cardinalhealth.com/en/about-us/our-people/our-leaders/michelle-greene.html], EVP and CIO of Cardinal Health Credits:  * Executive Producer & Content Strategist: William "Chip" Schafer * Producer / Audio Editor: David Alexander [http://www.davidjalexander.com/] * Introduction Audio Voice Actress: Kristen Pelster * Introduction Audio Voice Actor: David Alexander [http://www.davidjalexander.com/]

Moments That Matter: Dave Peacock and Lisa Nichols on Leading with Character and Kindness

In this special episode of the CharacterPlus C-Suite Series, released in honor of World Kindness Day, we’re thrilled to feature two exceptional leaders, Dave Peacock, CEO of Advantage Solutions, and Lisa Nichols, CEO of Technology Partners. Through their remarkable careers, Dave and Lisa have led their organizations with unwavering values and compassion, demonstrating how character is a driving force behind both personal and organizational success. Together with our host, Mike Park, CharacterPlus CEO, they discuss the profound impact that "moments that matter" have on shaping culture, whether through small, kind gestures like a young employee offering flowers to a grieving customer or larger corporate commitments to community service. Lisa shares how her company’s 'Lift' program is changing lives, while Dave discusses the role of empathy and humility in leadership, and how his frontline team members contribute to their communities in meaningful ways. Dave and Lisa open up about their personal leadership journeys, sharing the core values that have shaped them. From Dave’s belief in faith, service, and candor to Lisa’s emphasis on love, patience, and empathy, these leaders embody what it means to lead with integrity and to inspire others. Tune in to hear how character transcends business metrics, influencing everything from employee engagement to customer loyalty. Let this conversation serve as a powerful reminder of how simple acts of kindness can transform lives and build stronger communities. Join us for an inspiring discussion on empathy, integrity, and the kind of leadership that leaves a lasting legacy. Learn more at: www.characterplus.org [https://www.characterplus.org] Host: Mike Park [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeltpark/], CEO of CharacterPlus [https://www.characterplus.org] Guests: Dave Peacock [https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidapeacock], CEO of Advantage Solutions [https://advantagesolutions.net] Lisa Nichols [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholslisa/], CEO of Technology Partners  [https://technologypartners.net] Credits: Executive Producer & Content Strategist: William "Chip" Schafer Producer / Audio Editor: David Alexander [http://www.davidjalexander.com] Introduction Audio Voice Actress: Kristen Pelster Introduction Audio Voice Actor: David Alexander [http://www.davidjalexander.com/]

Protecting Culture & Climate with Roxanna Mechem and Rachael Wilcox

In this episode of the Character Plus Podcast, host Mike Park is joined by two distinguished educators, Roxanna Mechem and Rachael Wilcox, to discuss the vital role of protecting positive culture and climate in schools. Drawing from their extensive experience as leaders in the education field, Roxanna and Rachael share actionable strategies for fostering environments where both students and staff thrive. They explore how schools can safeguard their core values, strengthen community trust, and create lasting, positive change that goes beyond academic success. Tune in to hear inspiring stories, practical insights, and proven techniques to build and maintain a school culture that empowers every member of the community. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or parent, this episode offers invaluable guidance on how to protect what truly matters in education: a safe, supportive, and inspiring learning environment. Learn more at: www.characterplus.org [http://www.characterplus.org/] Host: Mike Park [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeltpark/] CEO of CharacterPlus Guests:  Roxanna Mechem  Rachael Wilcox Credits:  Executive Producer & Content Strategist: William "Chip" Schafer Producer / Audio Editor: David Alexander Introduction Audio Voice Actress: Kristen Pelster Introduction Audio Voice Actor: David Alexander

Building Equitable Futures: The Role of EJACE in Character Education - Part 2

In part two of our series on the Equity and Justice Academy in Character Education (EJACE), Mike Park, CEO of Character Plus, continues the conversation with Dr. Grace Lee, Dr. Jeremy Mapp, and Michael Barolak. This episode shifts focus from the foundational principles of EJACE to the practical, real-world impact it has had in schools. Dr. Jeremy Mapp shares how the program has been successfully integrated into the Kirkwood School District, resulting in a more positive school culture and a stronger sense of belonging among students and staff. Dr. Grace Lee discusses the tangible improvements in social-emotional learning and academic performance observed in schools that have embraced EJACE. Michael Barolak highlights inspiring success stories from EJACE cohorts, illustrating how schools are using the program to build stronger, more inclusive communities. This episode offers valuable insights into how EJACE is helping schools create environments where everyone is respected, valued, and empowered to succeed. Learn more at: www.characterplus.org [http://www.characterplus.org/] Host: Mike Park [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeltpark/] CEO of CharacterPlus Guests: Dr. Grace Lee Dr. Jeremy Mapp Michael Barolak   Credits:  Executive Producer & Content Strategist: William "Chip" Schafer Producer / Audio Editor: David Alexander Introduction Audio Voice Actress: Kristen Pelster Introduction Audio Voice Actor: David Alexander