Catalysts for Change

Catalysts for Change
Podcast Description
Catalysts for Change is a podcast about leaders who drive meaningful impact by balancing strategy, purpose, and action. Hosted by Adam Lister, each episode dives into the pivotal moments, values, and lessons that shape how change really happens in business, government, education, and beyond.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast centers on themes of leadership, social impact, and transformative change. Episodes explore topics such as educational reform and entrepreneurial grit, with specific examples like Randy Boyd's efforts in reshaping Tennessee's higher education through initiatives like Tennessee Promise.

Catalysts for Change is a podcast about leaders who drive meaningful impact by balancing strategy, purpose, and action. Hosted by Adam Lister, each episode dives into the pivotal moments, values, and lessons that shape how change really happens in business, government, education, and beyond.
In this powerful kickoff episode of Catalysts for Change, host Adam Lister sits down with Randy Boyd — entrepreneur, education leader, and relentless change-maker — to unpack a career built on hustle, heart, and an unshakable mission to make things better.
From starting college at 16 and launching a multi-million dollar business from the back of a van, to reshaping Tennessee’s higher education landscape with bold, people-first initiatives like Tennessee Promise and the Drive to 55, Randy’s story is a masterclass in vision-driven leadership. He shares hard-earned lessons on perseverance, the art of navigating challenges with grace, and why clear, candid conversations are the real catalyst for lasting impact.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why no one can make you quit — and how Randy internalized that truth
- How entrepreneurial grit translated into groundbreaking public service
- The behind-the-scenes story of turning a big, audacious education reform dream into reality
- How clarity, candor, and community-building fuel lasting leadership
- What Randy believes could make this the greatest decade in the University of Tennessee’s history
If you’re looking for real-world inspiration on building a life of impact, staying true to your values, and leading with purpose — this conversation will light the fire.

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