Enter the Culture Warrior

Bill Samuels Jr., Chairman Emeritus of Maker's Mark, joins us to explore how bold collaboration and disciplined leadership helped revive the American bourbon industry. From rebuilding bourbon's reputation after Prohibition to working alongside competitors to grow the entire category, Bill shares the strategic decisions that transformed Maker's Mark into a nationally respected brand. He also reflects on succession planning, multigenerational leadership, sustainability in agriculture, and why the future of bourbon depends on new blood, fresh thinking, and protecting the values that built it.  

If Nashville has a secret sauce, collaboration is what gives it that unmistakable kick. Stephanie Coleman, President and CEO of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, joins us for an inspiring conversation about leadership, synergy, and the future of Nashville. She shares how her 17-year journey through nearly every role at the Chamber shaped her inclusive leadership style, why this is a defining moment for the region's next generation of leaders, and how Nashville's culture of connection continues to drive innovation and community growth.

Hal Cato, CEO of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, joins us to share invaluable insights from his career journey spanning over four decades of community engagement, entrepreneurial spirit, and transformative leadership. Hal redefines success by focusing on community, collaboration, and living authentically from the inside out.

Olympic gold medalist, cancer survivor, and motivational speaker Scott Hamilton shares his incredible journey of overcoming challenges, embracing purpose, and finding joy in life's adversities. This episode is a masterclass in perseverance, faith, and learning to find peace even in life's most challenging moments.

True leadership isn't about being the loudest voice in the room. Stuart C. McWhorter, Tennessee's Commissioner of Economic and Community Development (TNECD), demonstrates how actively listening builds trust, uncovers fresh perspectives, and leads to more thoughtful decision-making. McWhoter brings with him decades of experience spanning entrepreneurship, public service, and venture capital and shares a roadmap to success for leaders at any stage.

Johari Matthews, Vice President and Executive Director of ONE Community and the Tennessee Titans Foundation, shares her journey of leadership, community impact, and the transformative power of empathy. From spearheading initiatives that create generational change to celebrating Nashville's growth, Matthews highlights the Titans' ongoing commitment to winning beyond the field and building a legacy of connection and care for the Nashville community and beyond.

Former CEO of Tractor Supply Company and author of The Culture Warrior, Joe Scarlett, joins host Suzanne Reed to offer his insights on fostering a strong company culture, empowering a team, and leading with humility. Scarlett's successful leadership career spans decades, though his personal mission has remained consistent: focus on cultivating people-centered practices that outlast trends and ensure sustained business success. His story is a reminder that even in a fast-paced, ever-changing business environment, core values like empathy, listening, and a genuine investment in your people can lead to a sustainable and impactful legacy.

President of the Nashville Healthcare Council (NHCC), Apryl Childs-Potter, joins host Suzanne Reed to share her insights on leadership, growth, and plans to make Nashville a model for healthcare and innovation for the world. Their candid conversation includes a look back at Childs-Potter's career, the leadership lessons she's learned and imparted on others along the way, which includes fostering collaboration and driving innovation. You'll also learn more about NHCC's annual Sessions conference and the lasting impact they hope to have on the healthcare industry.

As LBMC celebrates its 40th anniversary, host Suzanne Reed sits down with LBMC co-founders David Morgan and Mike Cain to discuss their personal and professional experiences building one of the Southeast's largest CPA and professional services firms, now with over 900 employees in five offices. Their true legacy goes beyond just the numbers—it's rooted in the relationships, thoughtful succession planning, and a drive to constantly evolve in a competitive industry. The insights shared here by LBMC's founders will serve as timeless lessons for leaders and professionals alike.

LBMC is celebrating its 40th anniversary by bringing together today's influential voices to inspire and inform tomorrow's business leaders. All season we'll explore the pivotal moments that have shaped the careers of top executives and entrepreneurs, uncovering the innovative strategies behind their success. From game-changing business decisions to career-defining leadership lessons, you'll get powerful insights and advice to help you make it count. Whether you're leading a team, planning for the future or just beginning your career, Make It Count will equip you with the inspiration and ideas to help you succeed and take your leadership journey to the next level.