Welcome to Mission Control.
A bi-weekly podcast focusing on executive directors and non-profit leaders and how they strive to make positive impacts in their community. Hosted by Paul J Schmidt, Owner and Creative Video Strategist for UnoDeuce Multimedia.
If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast or if there’s someone you would like to hear from, please email us at missioncontrol@unodeuce.com
Welcome to Mission Control. A bi-weekly podcast focusing on executive directors and non-profit leaders and how they strive to make positive impacts in their communities. Hosted by Paul J Schmidt, Owner and Creative Video Strategist for UnoDeuce Multimedia.
If you would like to be a guest or if there is someone’s story that you would like to hear, please send a message to missioncontrol@unodeuce.com
Mission Control Podcast: Joseph Yang’s Journey from Club Member to CEO
Contents
Intro
Host Paul J. Schmidt speaks with Joseph Yang, the new President & CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Lansing. A former member, tech lover, attorney, and nonprofit leader, Joseph shares how his path shaped his passion for youth services, innovation, and leadership.
Guest Info: Joseph Yang
- Role: CEO, Boys and Girls Club of Lansing
- Background: Club alum, MSU grad, attorney, community leader
- Years with Club: 21+
- Contact: jyang@bgclansing.org | 517-394-0455 | bgclansing.org
Related Links
Episode Summary
Joseph discusses his upbringing with the Club, his tech background, his transition into law, and his leadership style. Key themes include accessibility, esports, mentorship, and adapting youth programs to meet the needs of modern youth. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching and gardening.
Key Takeaways
- Club membership remains $10 per year, unchanged for over 20 years.
- Mentorship and lifelong learning are vital for leadership growth.
- Innovation (e.g., esports) helps keep programs relevant.
- Maintaining a balance between personal and professional life is essential.
Notable Quotes
“The Club’s mission is to inspire all youth to reach their potential.”
“It’s still $10 a year. It’s been that way for 21 years.”
“I grew up in a computer lab. That love of tech never left.”
“Being a lifelong learner means knowing your gaps and closing them.”
“We meet kids where they are—traditional programs and now esports.”
Episode Breakdown
- 00:00 – Meet Joseph: Club mission and leadership intro
- 03:26 – Tech Roots: Early coding, Sega, MSU degree
- 09:10 – Law Career: Serving the community in court
- 13:05 – Club Journey: Member to CEO, mentors, leadership
- 24:39 – Vision: Expanding access, adding esports
- 29:23 – Life Balance: Coaching and gardening as outlets
- 31:55 – Wrap-Up: Final thoughts and how to connect
Wrap-Up
Connect with Joseph at jyang@bgclansing.org or visit bgclansing.org. Subscribe to the Mission Control Podcast on YouTube or your favorite platform. Share this story and stay tuned for more inspiring journeys.
