Encore presentation of one of our most popular and moving conversations.

In this powerful episode of Catalysts for Change, host Adam Lister talks with Katy Dieckhaus—mother of nine-year-old Evelyn, one of the six victims of the Covenant School shooting—and Todd Cruse, board chair of Voices for a Safer Tennessee.

Katy shares moving stories of Evelyn’s life and the ways her daughter’s spirit continues to guide her advocacy. Todd, a Republican gun owner and neighbor, reflects on how data and personal loss drew him into the movement for bipartisan, common-sense firearm safety. Together, they reveal how grief became a catalyst for action, building a coalition of 30,000 Tennesseans determined to create a safer future.

This is Part 1 of their story—an honest conversation about loss, resilience, and the power of listening to create lasting change.

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Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One Twelve Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

In this special bonus episode of Catalysts for Change, host Adam Lister addresses questions directly from listeners and community conversations—covering a range of topics, including politics, leadership, strategy, and sustaining meaningful work.

Adam opens up about the myths around “buying politicians,” what frustrates him most about today’s political climate, and how he defines his work in strategy and advocacy. He also shares lessons on consistency, resilience, and the importance of staying mission-focused in a noisy, fast-changing world.

You’ll hear stories about the origins of One12 Strategies, the philosophy behind small actions that lead to big impact, and candid reflections on leadership, burnout, and authenticity.

If you enjoy this format, let us know! Comment on LinkedIn, send in your questions, and we’ll keep building future bonus episodes around the topics you care about most.

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Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One Twelve Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative

What happens when the moment you're most remembered for becomes only a small part of your story?

In this episode of Catalysts for Change, Adam Lister sits down with former Tennessee Titans wide receiver, educator, and school founder Kevin Dyson for a conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the leadership lessons that emerge long after the spotlight fades.

For many fans, Kevin will forever be associated with two iconic NFL moments: the Music City Miracle and the final play of Super Bowl XXXIV, when the Titans came just one yard short of a championship. But this conversation goes far beyond football. Kevin reflects on the highs and lows of professional sports, the pressure of public success and failure, and how those experiences shaped his transition into education and community leadership.

Together, they explore the influence of Kevin's mother, the lessons sports teach about accountability and teamwork, and why he believes student engagement is one of the greatest challenges facing education today. Kevin also shares the vision behind Music City Academy, a new charter school designed to connect academics with the life-changing lessons found through athletics and competition.

From navigating disappointment and grief to leading through COVID, conversations about race, and the responsibility of shaping young lives, this episode offers a powerful perspective on what it means to lead with purpose and build a legacy that extends far beyond personal achievement.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why some of life's greatest leadership lessons come from moments of failure, not success.
• Why resilience, accountability, and teamwork remain essential skills for success in any field.
• How sports can serve as a powerful vehicle for education, engagement, and character development.
• What leaders can learn about navigating adversity, public criticism, and personal setbacks.
• Why the most important chapter of your story is often what comes after the moment everyone remembers.

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Catalysts for Change is an initiative of One Twelve Strategies, brought to you in part by the Southern Research Collaborative