What does it take to build a meaningful life and career? In this episode of Leaders Are Human, I sit down with Shirley M. Collado, Ph.D., a remarkable leader whose journey began stocking shelves at a neighborhood bodega and ultimately became the President and CEO of CollegeTrack. How does this happen?

Together, we talk about being the first in your family to carve a new path, and the courage required to take risks, trust your instincts, and embrace opportunities before you feel fully ready. We discuss the mentors who helped guide the way — not just by opening doors, but by providing honest feedback, encouragement, and the truth we sometimes need to hear most.

We also dive into a deeply personal chapter: a life-threatening medical procedure that became a profound awakening. Facing her own mortality forced her to reconsider the pace at which she was living and led to important lessons about self-care, discipline, and creating a life that is successful, sustainable, and joyful.

Whether you’re leading an organization, navigating a career transition, or simply trying to find balance in a demanding world, this conversation offers powerful reminders about the importance of caring for ourselves, surrounding ourselves with people who lift us up, and making space for what truly matters.

Most importantly, we talk about the often-overlooked power of joy and why a fulfilling life is not just about achievement, but about learning to embrace the people, moments, and joyful experiences that make us feel alive.

In this episode:

• From stocking shelves to the CEO’s office

• The courage to take leaps of faith

• Why mentors matter more than we realize

• Lessons from a life-changing health scare

• Self-care, discipline, and sustainable success

• The importance of community and support

• Why joy deserves a place in every leader’s life

How do you navigate life’s hardest moments without losing your sense of purpose—or yourself?

In the first episode of Leaders Are Human, I sit down with Dan Porterfield, president of the Aspen Institute and a leader I’ve long admired. Dan reflects on his childhood, his journey through public education to a life-changing Jesuit experience, and the values that shaped his path.

What emerges is a powerful story of transformation: from simply getting through life to living with intention and service to others.

We explore how Dan learned to move through intensity with integrity—reframing challenges, cultivating the right mindset, and staying grounded in purpose. He also shares practical lessons from his work, including the five mindsets that have guided his leadership and can help all of us face extraordinary challenges with clarity and courage.

This conversation sets the foundation for the series: an honest look at leadership not as perfection, but as a deeply human endeavor.

Show Note:
In this episode, Dan Porterfield highlights five key mindsets for growth from his book, Mindset Matters: discovery, creativity, collaboration, mentorship, and striving. These mindsets reflect a belief in continuous learning, contributing meaningfully, working with others, lifting others up, and pushing yourself forward with purpose.