Story & Lesson Highlights with Dr. Candice Bledsoe of Dallas

We recently had the chance to connect with Dr. Candice Bledsoe and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Candice , thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve found tremendous joy in engaging with young leaders and witnessing innovation take shape right before my eyes. Whether it’s through our programs or community initiatives, seeing students and emerging changemakers develop creative solutions to real-world problems fills me with hope. Their energy, curiosity, and boldness remind me of why I’m so passionate about this work. Watching an idea move from imagination to impact is one of the most rewarding experiences I can have.

I’m also deeply inspired by storytelling—both in telling stories and in seeing others embrace the power of their own voices. There’s something beautiful about the moment when someone realizes their story has value and can create change. Storytelling connects generations, builds empathy, and fuels innovation, and I feel grateful to witness that every day.
And of course, I make space for humor and laughter. Those moments of joy and lightheartedness remind me to stay grounded and keep a sense of balance while doing the work I love.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Dr. Candice Lucas-Bledsoe, an internationally recognized expert in leadership and innovation, the Global CEO of the Action Research Center in Dallas, Texas, and a professor with appointments at several universities. My work focuses on education, innovation, and strategy, and I am deeply committed to empowering women, youth, and changemakers to realize their potential and create meaningful impact.

The Action Research Center serves as an impact lab that serves the community in many ways, from mentoring students and supporting young leaders, to empowering women through initiatives like The Collective. What makes our work unique is how we integrate storytelling, innovation, and leadership development. We don’t just teach ideas; we help people transform them into action that creates real change in communities.

Throughout my career, I have been honored to receive the UN Global Leadership Award for Sustainable Goal 4: Quality Education and the Athena International Leadership Award for closing the wealth gap for underrepresented groups. I’ve published numerous articles, received fellowships from organizations including the National Endowment for the Humanities and the University of Michigan, and delivered hundreds of keynote speeches worldwide.

At the heart of all of this work is a passion for helping others discover their voice and power. Seeing young leaders innovate, take risks, and embrace their potential brings me tremendous joy and reminds me why education, leadership, and storytelling are so critical.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
One moment that profoundly shaped how I see the world was witnessing a group of young changemakers bring an idea from concept to impact for the first time. I had been mentoring them through one of our programs at the Action Research Center, and I watched as they collaborated, problem-solved, and overcame challenges to create a solution that positively affected their community. Seeing their creativity, resilience, and courage in action reminded me that leadership isn’t about titles or positions—it’s about empowering others, amplifying voices, and enabling people to realize their potential.
I really believe that young people have the ability to address many of the problems in our communities. They can create solutions, serve as leaders, and make a lasting impact. That experience reinforced my belief in the power of education, storytelling, and innovation to transform lives and communities, and it continues to inspire the work I do every day.

Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
Yes, I remember my grandmother truly listening to me. She had a way of making me feel seen and heard, no matter how big or small my ideas were. When I was younger, she would sit with me at the kitchen table and ask about my dreams for the future. She didn’t interrupt or rush to give advice and she listened with patience, love, and genuine curiosity. Those moments taught me the power of listening as an act of love and leadership.
Her example continues to guide me in my work today. Whether I’m mentoring young people or working with women leaders through The Collective or the Action Research Center, I try to create that same space where people feel heard, valued, and empowered to share their stories and ideas. Listening deeply can be transformative; it’s often where innovation and healing begin.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that what matters most to me is family, faith, and leading with purpose. They know how deeply I value my family and the guidance that faith provides in both my personal and professional life. They would also say that I am passionate about creating opportunities for others to thrive. For example, mentoring young leaders, empowering women, and helping people recognize and use their voices to make a meaningful impact.

They’d add that I care about connection, joy, and laughter. I believe that humor, compassion, and shared moments with loved ones are essential to sustaining effective leadership. Whether I’m mentoring a student, leading a program, or spending time with family, I strive to inspire, support, and uplift others while guiding them to realize their potential and make a difference in the world.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I understand deeply that leadership is not about titles, accolades, or recognition—it’s about influence, service, and creating space for others to thrive. Many people assume that being a leader means holding power or authority, but true leadership comes from listening, mentoring, and empowering others to see their own potential. I’ve learned that the most effective leaders are those who invest in people, cultivate trust, and create environments where everyone feels capable of making an impact.

I also understand the profound power of storytelling. Most people underestimate how transformative it can be to share personal narratives or listen deeply to the experiences of others. Storytelling inspires, connects, and educates, and it has the ability to spark innovation and motivate people to act. When combined with leadership, it allows us to teach, mentor, and guide in ways that leave a lasting impression.

And finally, I understand that joy is an internal practice, not something someone else can give you. Many people search for happiness or validation from outside themselves, but real joy comes from recognizing your own growth, celebrating small victories, and finding meaning in the work you do. Even in challenging moments, cultivating joy allows us to remain resilient, creative, and grounded while leading others and serving our communities.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.DrCandiceBledsoe.com
• Instagram: @hicandice
• Linkedin: @DoctorBledsoe
• Twitter: @DoctorBledsoe
• Facebook: @DrCandiceLucasBledsoe

Image Credits

Images: Kim Leeson