On this episode of Leadership LevelUp, Kent talks about how he is currently still learning in leadership and how the leaders in his life put the time and effort in.

“It elevates everyone. It puts us at the same level playing field. And I think for a lot of leaders, we don’t bring ourselves into spaces to make ourselves vulnerable.”

In this episode of Leadership Level Up Kent Wade returns to the show to share how he continues to grow as a leader. Kent is always looking for ways he can improve, and emphasizes taking both big and small actions in the pursuit of a better self. 

Committed to this growth mindset, Kent makes a habit of surrounding himself around other leaders to sharpen his own skill set.

In his role as a mentor, Kent identifies two key voids that need to be filled to empower young leaders: Access and healing. For him, young leaders need to be provided access to resources, knowledge, and mentors – as well as be provided the space to heal – in order to become their best selves and develop into a great leader. With his brand Shake The Fear, Kent’s aim is to do just that.

Tune in to learn about Kent Wade’s framework for personal growth, how he implements the tenets of his leadership philosophy as a mentor, and how he will achieve his plans for the future.

Meet Your Guest

Kent Wade

Kent Wade has over 17 years of library and customer service experience. After obtaining a GED (2005) and an Associates from Kankakee Community College (2012), a fire for sharing the value of education was lit in him that still burns strong to this day. 

From working with youth, to empowering professionals, Kent’s mission has remained the same: for humans to regain their AMBITION despite the heaviness of life. During the summer of 2018, Kent launched Shake the Fear, a public speaking workshop geared toward overcoming the fear of speaking.

Wade’s ability to be a change agent earned him a Kankakee County 40 Under 40 award in 2016. Kent serves as the first Black officer on the Kankakee Public Library’s Board of Directors, as well as serving on the board of Directors of United Way. In 2020, Wade launched his Shake the Fear Gear Tee and Hooded Sweatshirt brand. Kent Wade is a proud husband, father to four, and uncle to many. 

About the Leadership LevelUp Podcast

Being a boss and a leader are very different. A boss tells you what to do and a leader partners with you in the process. Jeff, being a leader of leaders, has a vast knowledge of best practices and exercises to discover leadership traits. Brian shares stories with Jeff about the ups and downs of his leadership quest while talking to business and community leaders to discuss their personal leadership journey. Who influenced them? What do they do when they have a bad day? What gives them inspiration? Do french fries or tacos or ice cream make them feel better after a bad day? Through laughter and casual conversation, Brian and Jeff explore all aspects of good leadership.

Meet Your Host

Jeff Williamson

Brian Prairie

Show Sponsor

Pathfinder: A full-service creative & marketing agency with a mission to provide strategic storytelling to our clients. There is no greater impact in this world than a story. Storytelling is how we learn, remember, and feel. The world has used storytelling since the beginning of time to entertain, teach, inspire, and innovate. Pathfinder’s mission is to provide strategic storytelling for our clients. How? Through inventive business services and pioneering campaigns that help organizations find their own path and carry out their vision.