In this episode of The Beacon Podcast, Dr. Lilya Wagner, senior advisor with Lighthouse Counsel and author of the book “Leading Up,” explores how meaningful leadership often happens without formal authority. Drawing on more than three decades as an educator, coach and practitioner, Lilya challenges the assumption that influence flows only from the top. She offers practical insight into how mission-driven professionals can move ideas forward, build momentum and lead with credibility from any role.

Hosted by Lighthouse Counsel Senior Advisor Karen Baldwin, the conversation weaves together Lilya’s personal story from her early life as a refugee after World War II to her work shaping leaders across the nonprofit sector. With clarity and depth, she reminds listeners that some of the most powerful leadership is quiet, principled and transformational.

About Our Guest

Dr. Lilya Wagner is a prolific award-winning author, educator and nationally respected voice in philanthropy and nonprofit leadership. Over a career spanning more than three decades, she has shaped how leaders think about fundraising, ethics, influence and organizational culture. She is the author or editor of more than a dozen books, including the widely acclaimed “Leading Up,” which explores how individuals can exercise meaningful leadership without formal authority. Her work has earned numerous professional honors and continues to influence nonprofit leaders, educators and boards around the world.

A senior advisor with Lighthouse Counsel, Lilya brings deep intellectual rigor and practical insight to clients navigating complex leadership and advancement challenges. She has served as a professor, consultant and keynote speaker for institutions across the nonprofit, higher education and philanthropic sectors. Known for her clarity of thought, moral compass and ability to connect ideas to action, she helps organizations strengthen leadership at every level and advance their missions with integrity and purpose.