RealLeaders Selects New CEO

Written by: Julie Van Ness, Executive Director and Chair (former CEO)

When is the right time to think about your successor?

I would recommend it be with almost every new hire as it may surprise you. 

I essentially hired mine 10 years ago, although I didn’t know it at the time. He was just an intern working his way through college, studying for a business degree in management information systems. He immediately demonstrated his entrepreneurial drive by recruiting a young videographer to shoot “Real Leaders Shortcuts”— walking video conversations with purpose driven CEOs— to show his peers a shorter path to a fulfilling career. 

After graduating, he launched a new podcast for social impact CEO’s titled “The Real Leaders Podcast” where he grew it to be one of the Top 100 business podcasts in the US, shining the light on over 1,000 impact oriented CEOs. For the remainder of the decade, he went on to tackle other vital company functions such as: Marketing Manager, Director of Digital Operations, VP of Growth, General Manager and President. 

Many of you within our community already know who I’m talking about, since you’ve been interviewed by the “keep it real” pro or you connected with him at the dynamic Real Leaders UNITE events in San Diego. He is, of course, the incomparable Kevin Edwards and he will be promoted to CEO starting this February!

I am thrilled to see Kevin’s new initiatives and fresh ideas come to life with all of you in the years ahead as you continue to elevate “Better Leaders for a Better World”. Because you are in the Real Leaders Impact Community, you will get the first opportunity to become a part of the new adventures, leveraging digital media and AI for good, while simultaneously creating closer personal connections. The thought “when you walk with the wise, you rise” fills my mind with the soul of what’s to come.

As the CEO over the past decade, experiencing both the progress and challenges that we’ve all faced, I want to express how much I respect and value all of you. Your collective leadership, grit and determination is changing the world for the better and is needed now more than ever. 

I hold high regard for Kevin’s courageous mindset and know that he shares our strong commitment to supporting you, the Real Leaders of our world! His continuing leadership will help accelerate the growth and impact of our entire community. 

Thank you all and know that we will all “go far together”.

Written by: Julie Van Ness, Executive Director and Chair (former CEO)

About the Author

Real Leaders Inc.