In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Troy LeMaile-Stovall, CEO of TEDCO, Maryland's economic engine for technology companies. Troy LeMaile-Stovall has led the organization to cultivate an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem.

In this conversation, Troy LeMaile-Stovall discusses his upbringing and how it has impacted the kind of leader he is today. He shares how his experience as a Texan and a Catholic has shaped his leadership style and how he looks to have a greater impact as he leads TEDCO into the future.

Troy LeMaile-Stovall describes three defining moments in his life: coming from a divorced family in the Catholic Church, growing up with a sister who had sickle cell, and finding out that his biological father was not who he thought he was. These experiences have shaped his view of humanity and relationships.

Troy LeMaile-Stovall describes his journey to success, beginning with his humble upbringing in Houston, Texas. He talks about how he was the first black student body president of his high school and the salutatorian. He attributes his success to two things: strength and courage. He talks about how his sister Tracy was a big source of strength and courage for him throughout his life. He talks about how she helped him through difficult times, including when she was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia.

Finally, Troy LeMaile-Stovall talks about his faith, gratitude, and purpose, what the future of work will look like and how economic development and regional cooperation can play a role in that future.