It takes grit, resilience and hard work to reach big goals—a truth IDEA team member Jordan Leeds knows all about. As director of online education, Jordan produces and markets IDEA’s massive library of multimedia educational content, including online video courses, webinars and podcasts.
For the past 5 years, Jordan has stayed committed to reaching the finish line on every project. Such endurance and determination push him forward outside of the office, too: When he was 42, Jordan set his sight on improving his fitness, and, within 5 years, he became a triathlete!
His unwavering dedication to quality and achieving his goals is an inspiring reminder that personal success is possible, one step at a time. His teammate, educational products manager Linda Morreale agrees, but she cites his friendship as an even greater asset. “He’s always ready to lend an ear and offer advice, as well as just crack a joke and make me laugh,” she says.
Now, Jordan spends his time training for his next triathlon and improving his surfing skills—even if it takes immense effort and some light-hearted humor. “My goal is always to finish what I start—and I believe in small goals,” he says. “Like ‘cross the finish line,’ ‘finish these four tasks before you can eat lunch’ or ‘don’t get hit in the head by my surfboard.’” Every success counts!
Q&A With Jordan Leeds
Jordan and wife Allison with kids Lucas, far left, and Riley.
Q: What’s your favorite junk food or snack?
A: Coca-Cola. I always keep an emergency can in the refrigerator for rough days.
Q: What was the toughest athletic or fitness challenge you conquered?
A: I have completed three sprint triathlons. However, they were easy compared to the San Diego Half Marathon. I’m not built for distance running, but thankfully IDEA teammates Judy Minich and Christopher Holtwick were there to support me and help me cross the finish line.
Q: What is your favorite film?
A: “Star Wars Ep. 5: Empire Strikes Back.” I named my son Lucas (Luke). He’s now 13 and wants me to stop saying, “Luke, I am your father.” I guess I overused it.
Q: What are some of your top bucket-list items?
A: I would like to publish something creatively—write a book or make a movie—and I would like to go to outer space. I still want to be a Jedi.
