Lead with Purpose

Passing the Torch: How Purpose Becomes Legacy with Brooke Noles and Chantell Cooley

In Episode Two of Lead with Purpose with Dr. Janell Gibson, we explore leadership, legacy, and generational transition in a special mother-and-daughter conversation featuring Brooke Noles, Director of Academic Communication and Relations at Columbia Southern University, and Chantell Cooley, CSU Co-Founder and Co-Owner of Columbia Southern Education Group. Together, they reflect on the journey of building Columbia Southern University and what it means to pass the torch from one generation of leadership to the next. Chantell shares her perspective as a co-founder stepping back after decades of leadership, while Brooke discusses what it means for the next generation to carry the mission forward. Through candid conversation, they discuss how purpose becomes legacy, how trust shapes leadership transitions, and how honoring the past while embracing the future strengthens institutions.Whether you’re a leader navigating transition, part of a family legacy, or passionate about purposeful leadership, this episode offers meaningful insight into how leadership evolves across generations. 🎧 Tune in as we discuss: • What it means to “pass the torch” in leadership • The legacy and vision behind Columbia Southern University• How founders can empower the next generation • Lessons from a mother-and-daughter leadership journey • How purpose evolves into lasting impact Thank you for joining us on Lead with Purpose. Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/passing-the-torch-with-brooke-noles-and-chantell-cooley/id1824218053?i=1000758250543 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VGEACxfYU1c?si=zTKqsXCSsjh7abu7

The Importance of Fire Safety with Keith Padgett

In this premiere episode of Lead with Purpose with Dr. Janell Gibson, we dive into the world of fire safety, leadership, and education with a true expert in the field: Chief Keith Padgett, the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Academic Program Director at Columbia Southern University. With over 45 years of experience in the fire service, Chief Padgett brings valuable insight on staying confident under pressure, enhancing fire prevention efforts nationwide, and preparing future leaders through education. He shares his leadership journey, lessons learned in high-stakes environments, and a behind-the-scenes look at CSU’s groundbreaking new program, the Doctor of Fire Integrated Research (DFIR). Whether you're in emergency services, higher education, or simply passionate about purposeful leadership, this episode is full of practical wisdom and inspiration. 🎧 Tune in as we discuss: • A defining moment in Chief Padgett’s leadership journey • How to lead confidently in crisis • Why fire safety education is more important than ever • How CSU’s new DFIR program is shaping the future of the field • Lessons learned from decades of service Thank you for joining us on Lead with Purpose.