Finding Their Voices: Two Lovett Seniors on Trust, Freedom, and Leading with Integrity

S9E2 What happens when you remove the performance pressure and simply let two students explore each other's leadership journeys? In this episode of Living Lovett, you'll hear something different—seniors Will Byrne and Ford Tedder interview each other as part of their Ethical Leadership class, an assignment that asks them to reflect on their values, struggles, and growth as leaders.

Host Jessica Sant sets the stage by talking with both students about the Ethical Leadership class—a distinctive senior course facilitated by Lovett Head of School Meredyth Cole, Associate Head Chelle Wabrek, and Coach Orien Harris. Then the conversation shifts to Will and Ford as they take turns interviewing each other, unscripted and unpolished.

You'll hear Will and Ford explore what it means to lead by example rather than by volume, the power of improvisation in jazz and in life, and the profound lessons they both have learned across their time at Lovett. Will shares his journey of discovering faith at Lovett and becoming a section leader in the rhythm section of Ellington Jazz Ensemble. Ford reflects on his path from quiet presence to head swim captain and inaugural varsity water polo state champion.

Their honest conversation about struggle, growth, and whole child education offers a window into how Lovett develops young leaders—not through lectures, but through lived experience, meaningful dialogue, and the freedom to become their full selves. Stay until the end to hear both students answer the question we ask every guest: What does Living Lovett mean to you?

Living Lovett is the award nominated podcast hosted by Jessica Sant. Find Living Lovett on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. Visit The Lovett School website Lovett.org for more information. Lovett is on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Questions? Comments? Episode suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! Email host Jessica Sant.