“My grandmother was very creative, as well as my mother, in how they viewed things.. And it’s instilled in me not to just do the status quo, not to just do what everyone else is doing for the sake of doing it, because everyone else is doing it that way. But try to find another way to do it, where you have the same impact, reach the same goal or objective, but you’re just going about it a different way, a more efficient way.”

On today’s episode of Leadership Level Up, we have the pleasure of hosting Michael Maloney, the CEO and Executive Director of the Garden of Prayer Youth Center. He sits down with Jeff and Brian to provide insight into the influences that have shaped his leadership journey.

During our discussion, Maloney takes us back to his roots, reminiscing about the profound impact his grandmother had on his life and how her wisdom continues to shape his leadership approach. She nurtured his innate creativity, which Maloney applies in his role as a leader to discover innovative solutions that may not be immediately apparent.

In addition to his creativity, Michael attributes his keen attention to detail to his mother, a trait that has significantly contributed to his ability to excel in diverse environments and adapt swiftly to changing circumstances. Moreover, he acknowledges the influence of Archbishop William Hudson III. From Hudson, Maloney absorbed the invaluable lesson of leadership through fostering meaningful relationships, instead of relying on positional authority.

Listen to hear Maloney describe how he merges these impactful influences into a unique and effective leadership style that has helped establish his position as a pillar in the community. 

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Meet Your Guest

Michael Maloney

Michael Maloney has led the Garden of Prayer as the CEO and Executive Director of the Garden of Prayer since 2006. Previously, he dedicated six years as the Board President before assuming his current role. 

Under his leadership, the service population has tripled, program offerings have doubled, and the agency’s reach has expanded to include five additional locations. Michael’s educational background includes a B.A. from Southern Illinois University of Carbondale, an M.A. in Community Counseling from Chicago State University, and an M.B.A. from the Keller Graduate School of Management. He is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Licensed Child Welfare Specialist.

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 Hosts

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.