We recently connected with Dr. Queinnise Miller and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Dr. Queinnise, thanks for joining us today. Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?
I pray to build a legacy of love, laughter and leadership! I believe that everything in life is grounded in those three concepts. It’s my motto and core values that I strive to embody in my personal life, work and relationships.
LOVE – Love is the anchor of our lives. Understanding what love truly means helps us act intentionally towards ourselves and others, allowing us to recognize the love communicated to us by others. It shapes our behavior. I believe the core of love lies in how we express it through patience, kindness, forgiveness, honesty, and accountability. Love is a verb—it’s all about what we do! It’s essential for growth because it lays the groundwork for the life we desire. Love fuels everything we undertake. Love never fails. As it says in 1 Corinthians, “In all you do, do it in love.” God is LOVE! Love is our natural birthright. It drives out fear! All we need is love (Beatles, 1969)!
LAUGH – Laughter is the medicine for the soul. I believe we should embrace our humanity and fully embody it. Accepting our humanity allows us to extend grace to ourselves and others. In this acceptance, we discover peace and joy! Inner peace is essential for experiencing harmony in all areas of life. When we’re in turmoil inside, we can inadvertently create turmoil for those around us. Our shared humanity is what unites us. This acceptance opens the door to authentic happiness, free from external influences. Joy is a powerful source of energy. God is always in the present!
LEAD – Leadership makes all the difference! Everyone has the potential to be a leader in some way. However, leadership isn’t a solo endeavor; it’s about people—the collective power we share. It’s people over power! Moreover, we aren’t in control; we influence. True leadership is about serving others. God is the ultimate leader, and we must surrender and let love (God) guide us. We are driven by a higher purpose. We can only treat others as we treat ourselves! This mindset ensures we serve others with excellence by setting a strong example. Walk the walk, not just talk the talk! Aligning our words with our actions is the highest form of service. You can’t lead effectively if you’re not true to yourself. This principle holds you accountable, enabling you to hold others accountable too. People will follow your actions, not just your words! “Be the change you want to see in the world!” This approach keeps you focused on your own actions and behaviors, allowing you to grow and, in turn, lead more effectively. Change starts with you! As Brené Brown says, who you are is how you lead—so by reflecting on and improving yourself, you create the space and energy to help others improve as well. We can only control ourselves.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I am Dr. Q, affectionately known as the Heart-Centered Educator, and I am a transformative figure driven by an unwavering belief that love is at the core of effective leadership. My journey began in classrooms, where I first witnessed the transformational power of love-driven interactions. This revelation inspired me to spark a revolution in leadership education, extending from classrooms to boardrooms and bridging the gap between the emerging leaders of tomorrow and the compassionate, impactful leaders of today.
I see myself not just as an educator in the traditional sense, but as someone who transforms leaders by teaching them about the power of leading with love. My approach is firmly rooted in love, compassion, and human connection. I assert that this is the secret ingredient that truly changes humanity and yields powerful outcomes. As a coach, consultant, speaker, industry leader, and author, I am driven by the desire to humanize interactions and experiences across all sectors—education, corporate, non-profit, and beyond.
My mantra, “Love, Laugh, and Lead,” encapsulates my philosophy. I advocate for leaders who prioritize empathy, respect, and understanding. I believe that this approach not only fosters an environment of mutual respect but also boosts morale and productivity in all sectors.
My clients, ranging from educators to executive leaders, vouch for my unique approach. By tailoring my techniques to their specific needs, I help them cultivate a culture of love and understanding within their teams. I strive to be more than just a consultant or coach; I aim to be a beacon of change, guiding leaders toward a more compassionate and empathetic style of leadership.
I am convinced that love-led leadership can revolutionize workplaces, classrooms, and the world at large. My journey is a testament to the transformational power of love, and I continue to dedicate my life to spreading this message, one leader at a time.
METHODOLOGY
My methodology is deeply grounded in ‘culturally responsive caring.’ This approach transcends traditional teaching and leading, focusing on a holistic perspective that emphasizes both personal well-being and professional success. To me, it means truly caring for individuals, not just about them.
Leading with love is a cornerstone of my methodology, applicable in both education and corporate sectors. I believe that the act of caring goes beyond simply being a leader; it evolves into becoming a mentor, advocate, and ally. This philosophy considers the broader picture of individual development, helping people navigate life’s challenges and preparing them for the world beyond their current circumstances.
In short, my love for those I lead is palpable in my interactions. I am dedicated to making a meaningful and lasting impact, which is evident from the testimonials of those I have guided. My commitment extends beyond their professional success; I am invested in their personal growth and well-being. My unwavering belief in their potential, combined with my dedication, has made me an inspirational figure in their lives.
Have you ever had to pivot?
I took a leap of faith out of a sense of duty and a belief that I had a greater purpose in life. As a principal, I truly loved my work and found joy in serving the community and the children—it was a breath of fresh air and my ongoing motivation. After going through a divorce after 20 years, being a single mom to two kids was challenging, both emotionally and financially. I had been dreaming of becoming an adjunct professor and had applied for that role for years without success. I was proactive about surrounding myself with other professors and seeking mentorship, submitting over 75 applications.
At the same time, I had launched my book and brand a few years earlier, engaging in speaking and consulting on the side, which was my true passion. Then, out of the blue, I received an email that led to one interview and an offer for a Tenured Track Assistant Professor position. It felt like a miracle! The universe had whispered to me in my dreams, urging me to “take the job and I will provide.” I didn’t fully understand that message until that moment. Accepting the position meant I would have to take a $60,000 pay cut, but I knew this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. So, I quit! I was terrified, uncertain, but I trusted the universe and myself—I quit!
Because I took that leap, I now have the best job in the world as a professor, responsible for developing strong leaders for schools and children. I also get to speak and consult globally, allowing me to fully embrace my passion. Additionally, I coach and mentor leaders, helping them achieve their own dreams and goals. Follow your passion, and the rewards will follow!
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
When it comes to social media, I’ll be honest—I’m not very intentional about it. It can be overwhelming to keep up with how much this generation posts and engages online. As a ’90s baby, I remember a time when we actually danced at parties and conversed with friends instead of staring at our phones. Still, I recognize that social media is the future and an essential way to connect with a larger audience. It’s a powerful tool, and I have a lot of respect for it.
I don’t have a groundbreaking strategy or specific advice. I approach social media with authenticity, sharing who I truly am. If I feel compelled to contribute something valuable—be it love, laughter, or leadership—I post it, whether it’s a video, meme, or just a few words. I don’t focus on who sees it or how many views it gets; I trust it will reach those who need it most. I share my thoughts across platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter (X), Facebook (for the older crowd), TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Ultimately, I just aim to be myself—just Q!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.queinnise.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/queinnise/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Queinnise
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/dr-queinnise-miller
- Twitter: @DrQMil
- Youtube: @queinnise
