Breadcrumb Legacy: How You Can Live a Life Worth Remembering – with Dr. Jann Freed

Have you ever wondered how great leaders live a life worth remembering?

We first spoke with Dr. Jann Freed about the issue of legacy back in 2020 in our episode “The Secret to Living a Life of Meaning – Every Day.”  This went on to become a fan favorite episode. Jann shared elements of a concept and framework she developed she calls  the “Breadcrumb Legacy.”

“Dr. Jann” is a leadership development consultant, author, and speaker; a Professor of Business Management Emerita at Central College, Pella, Iowa; and an adjunct professor for the University of Iowa. She helps organizations improve employee engagement, navigate change management, and develop leaders of all ages and career stages. She has written or co-written five books, and given two popular TEDx talks. She also hosts the podcast series Becoming a Sage, where she interviews thought leaders about wisdom in work and in life. 

Jann’s breadcrumbs since our initial conversation have led  to  a brand new book, Breadcrumb Legacy: How Great Leaders Live a Life Worth Remembering (Routledge Press). In honor of the book launch, we’re revisiting our conversation with her. She  challenges us – no matter what age we are – to think differently about legacy. Rather than something we start considering at the end of our lives or careers, she says we can create a life worth remembering / starting today. Jann also shares actionable tips and strategies you can use to start creating your own Breadcrumb Legacy today.

Each day, in every small way, we leave crumbs of our legacy. Crumbs that people will remember.
– Jann Freed