In this episode, Don reflects on a lesson learned among the redwoods of the Pacific Northwest - that growth can’t be forced; it can only be cultivated when the conditions are right.

His guest, Elias Edwards-Jenks, embodies that truth. A former Trekkers student turned educator and community leader, Elias now leads the NOVA Alternative Education Program in Rockland, Maine, where he’s creating a relationship-based model that helps students reconnect to learning and to themselves.

Together, Don and Elias explore what it really means to build environments—whether in classrooms, organizations, or communities - where people can thrive. They talk about trust, belonging, the power of hands-on learning, and how leadership, like nature, flourishes when tended with care.

When the conditions are right, big things grow.

To learn more about Don's work, upcoming offerings, and leadership resources, visit carpentercompanyconsulting.com

If something in today’s episode spoke to you, I hope you’ll subscribe and continue the journey with me — because leadership begins within.