Shows
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastAhead of the Curve: Heather Naro on Personalizing Learning and Human-Centered LeadingI am thrilled to share my latest conversation with Dr. Heather Naro, Head of School at Schutz American School in Alexandria, Egypt. Heather brings over three decades of experience in international education to a discussion centered on inclusion, culture, and the pursuit of better. Here are three key themes from our conversation: The Radical Shift Toward Inclusion: Since 1992, the number of international schools has grown from fewer than 1,000 to nearly 15,000. More importantly, the philosophy has shifted from "exclusive" environments to more inclusive systems. Human-Centric Leadership: Heather advocates for a people first leadership style...
2026-03-241h 07
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastThe Pursuit of Better: Measuring Process Over Outcomes with Dan JamesThis week on An Imperfect Leader, I had the chance to sit down with Dan James, founder of Story 19 Consulting and a former U.S. Paralympic coach, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership and what he calls the "pursuit of better." Here are a few ideas from our conversation that stayed with me: From Subject Matter Expert to Leader of Scale: Many of us move into leadership because we were strong practitioners. But leading at scale requires a very different skill set. As Dan put it, the craft of being a great teacher is very...
2026-03-1750 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastWhen Kids Ran the Nation: Jennifer Light Offers Lessons in Democracy from Junior RepublicsI am thrilled to share a very special crossover episode between our podcast, An Imperfect Leader, and Mason Pashia from the Getting Smart Podcast! Together, we sat down with Dr. Jennifer Light, a professor at MIT, to explore the the history of Junior Republics and the cutting-edge work of Embodied Education. Here are two key takeaways from our conversation: đď¸ The Legacy of Junior Republics: Imagine a miniature city or nation run entirely by kids. Starting in 1895, Junior Republics gave children the power to act as senators, run businesses, and even debate major issues like women's suffr...
2026-03-101h 03
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastHaley Spira-Bauer Is Clear: Adaptability Is Not OptionalThis week on An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast I'm joined by Hayley Spira-Bauer, COO and Chief Academic Officer at Fullmind and host of the Learning Can't Wait Podcast. In a world where the education landscape is constantly shifting, Hayley makes a compelling case that adaptability isn't optional, it's essential. We explore how strong leaders connect the dots of data through storytelling - transforming numbers into a shared purpose and collective action. In a powerful "After Action Review," Hayley shares a hiring mistake from early in her tenure and the lesson that reshaped...
2026-03-0359 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastBeyond the "Testing Obsession": A Conversation with Dr. Jason Van HeukelumI recently sat down with Dr. Jason Van Heukelum, Superintendent of Winchester Public Schools, to talk about what it really means to lead in a messy, high-pressure moment for public education. Jason embraces being an "imperfect" leader. In a field often paralyzed by the pressure for perfection, that mindset matters. Three takeaways that stayed with me: đď¸ A Cathedral to Possibility: Winchester's Emil and Grace Shahadah Innovation Center brings students together to explore a true buffet of options. It's about social cohesion and shared opportunity, not silos. đ Doubling Down on Agency: Amid post-pan...
2026-02-241h 07
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastTed Dintersmith on Building Schools Full of Purpose and Promiseđ¨ Are schools preparing students for a world that no longer exists? I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Ted Dintersmith, the force behind Most Likely to Succeed and Multiple Choice, and author of What School Could Be (with a new book on math coming soon!). Our conversation centered on one big idea: the status quo isn't enough anymore. đ¤ AI changes the game: If we're training students to do what computers now do best, we're aiming at the past. We need to shift from compliance and percentile rankings to creativity, empathy, purpose, and re...
2026-02-171h 07
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastWinning Screen Time: Patrick Green on Curiosity, Creativity, and Student AgencyIn the latest episode of An Imperfect Leader, I sat down with Patrick Green, author of Classroom Management in the Digital Age, to explore how schools can move beyond compliance and toward deeper focus, connection, and self-management in the digital age. Here are three ideas that really stood out during our conversation: 1ď¸âŁ From compliance to self-management: We often say we want creativity and collaboration, yet we still design systems around compliance. Patrick challenges that mismatch. The real goal isn't control. It's helping students develop self-management. 2ď¸âŁ Leading with curiosity, not "tech panic": How we approach...
2026-02-1049 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastThe Tightrope of Leadership with Dr. Larry CubanLeadership isn't about finding the perfect solution. It's about learning from the daily grind of complexity. In this week's episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, I had the chance to speak with Dr. Larry Cuban, former superintendent, Stanford professor, and author. A few insights that stayed with me, especially for leaders working in high-stakes environments: 1ď¸âŁ Conflict isn't a failure, it's the work: Dr. Cuban shared that he couldn't recall a single conflict-free day as a superintendent. Leadership is a constant balancing act (boards, unions, families, and communities all...
2026-02-031h 01
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastMatt Pitman on the Shift from Being "Heard" to Being "Held" in School LeadershipWhat if the problem in our schools isn't a lack of voice, but a lack of connection? In this episode, I had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Matt Pitman, author of The Connection Conundrum, for a conversation that challenged many of the leadership norms we've inherited, especially the idea that effective leaders must remain stoic, distant, or emotionally neutral. Matt makes a compelling case that this model is no longer serving our schools. Instead, he invites leaders to rethink community, voice, and presence; and to move from making people feel heard to making...
2026-01-271h 07
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastKaaren Andrews: If We Get Ninth Grade Right, Everything Changesđď¸ New Episode Alert: If We Get Ninth Grade Right, Everything Changes In this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast I get to talk with Kaaren Andrews, National Director of the Center for High School Success. This conversation zeroes in on why getting 9th grade right can dramatically improve graduation rates and disrupt long-standing inequities in our system. Here are three big ideas we dig into: 1ď¸âŁ Ninth Grade: The Strongest Predictor of Graduation: Kaaren shares a powerful (and sobering) insight: students who are "on track" in ninth grade are three...
2026-01-2058 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastMandy Traylor Says Don't Move the Fences: Leading with Care and Community in Veribest ISD I'm excited to share the latest episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, featuring Mandy Traylor, Superintendent of Veribest ISD. Mandy offers a powerful look at what it means to lead with transparency, humility, and deep community trust. A few takeaways that stayed with me đ đ¤ Shared Vision, Real Buy-In: Through a Texas Strategic Leadership pilot, Mandy brought together the board, staff, and local businesses to define what a Veribest graduate should be. The result? A vision everyone owns because they created it together. đ Preparing Students for Life: From Adulting...
2026-01-1357 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastElena Aguilar on Why Presence Is a Leader's Greatest GiftAre you leading from a place of fixing⌠or from a place of presence? đą In the latest episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, I had the honor of sitting down with Elena Aguilar, the visionary behind Transformational Coaching and author of eight bestselling books, including The Art of Coaching and Arise. đ⨠Leadership can be a lonely journey. We're often expected to have the answers, solve the problems, and move fast. But Elena reminds us that real transformation doesn't come from quick fixesâit comes from going deeper and tending...
2026-01-0657 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Bryan Luizzi: When Leadership Doesn't Go as Planned (Remastered)The latest episode of An Imperfect Leader features Dr. Bryan Luizzi, Superintendent of New Canaan Public Schools, and it's a powerful reminder that leadership is less about having the answers and more about having the courage to step forward. From Connecticut classrooms to teaching and leading in Jordan, Bryan and I explore what it means to lead people in moments of uncertainty and change. đ§ Three leadership themes to listen for: 1. Leading with "Yes" (and Courage, Not Recklessness): Bryan shares how a "lead with yes" mindset shaped his career and ope...
2025-12-3040 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastRichard Lemons on Why You Can't Talk People Into Change and What Actually WorksThis week, I had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Richard Lemons, Executive Director of Partners for Educational Leadership, for a conversation that every system-level leader should spend time with. Richard has spent decades helping leaders tackle the hardest work in education: changing systems without losing our humanity. Here are three themes leaders should listen for: 1. You Can't Talk People Into New Mental Models: Richard reminds us that deeply entrenched beliefs about schooling aren't shifted by better arguments or smarter PowerPoints. They change through radically different experiences that...
2025-12-231h 02
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastLeading Without Flinching with Dr. Nyah Hamlettđď¸ New Episode of An Imperfect Leader Some conversations stay with you long after the recording ends. My conversation with Dr. Nyah Hamlett is one of those. Dr. Hamlett, former superintendent of Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and now Chief Equity & Development Officer for Montgomery County Public Schools, offers a deeply honest reflection on leadership under pressure. Here are three themes leaders should listen for in this episode: đš 1. "Don't Flinch" Leadership: Listen for how Nyah defines leadership as choosing courage over convenience, especially when decisions are uncomfortable or unpopular. đš 2. Student Voi...
2025-12-1655 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastBen Thompson on Building Schools That Strengthen CommunitiesFacility planning and passing a facility bond can be among the most complex (and stressful!) challenges a superintendent faces. On this episode of An Imperfect Leader, I talk with Ben Thompson, K-12 Director at McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture and host of the Idea Exchange: The Future of K-12 Education podcast. We explore how the spaces we design for learning can drive stronger student outcomes and strengthen community trust. Here are three takeaways I thought would be interesting for school leaders: Design Drives Outcomes: Ben reminds us there's a direct link between the decisions we make...
2025-12-091h 01
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Doug Bolton: Building Resilient Schools One Connection at a TimeIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast we had the pleasure of talking with Dr. Doug Bolton, clinical psychologist, author of Untethered, and director of school consultation for Formative Psychological Services. In Untethered: Creating Connected Families, Schools, and Communities to Raise a Resilient Generation, Doug breaks down what it means to lead in a moment when educators are carrying unprecedented levels of stress and trauma, and how leaders can build schools that feel safe, connected, and resilient. đ In This Episode, We Dig Into: ⢠Connection as the foundation for everything: Doug expla...
2025-12-021h 00
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastCommunication is a System: Lessons from Terrie MorganThis week we're sitting down with someone who has walked the walk for nearly four decades: Terrie Morgan, 2024 Kentucky Superintendent of the Year and a truly humble, student-centered leader from Hardin County Schools. Terrie brings warmth, honesty, and hard-earned wisdom from 36 years of service - and she doesn't hold back. If you care about leading with heart and systems-level clarity, this is an episode you'll want to save and share. đ Here are some standout lessons you'll hear: Put Students First - Every Time. Terrie's guiding question: Can I defend this as best for kids? It sha...
2025-11-2551 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Richard Ramos: Let Students Lead the WayI'm excited to share my conversation with Dr. Richard Ramos, Superintendent of the Miami Unified School District in Miami, Arizona. Dr. Ramos brings such heart to his work - lifting student voice, building true community partnerships, and embracing the beautiful messiness of leadership. Here are the three big themes from our conversation: Student Agency & Community Collaboration: How a simple idea (a Business Partner CafĂŠ) became a student-led space where young people host, present, and guide conversations with local business partners. Innovation & Project-Based Learning: A look inside Miami's Innovation Labs and how Dr. Ramos r...
2025-11-1853 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastLeading with Heart: Dr. Darren Kennedy on the Human Side of School LeadershipIn this episode, we are joined by Dr. Darren Kennedy, the High School Instructional Supervisor for Sumner County Schools (just outside Nashville, Tennessee). Dr. Kennedy, author of So You Think You Want to Be a Principal, 50 Voices from the Field, shares powerful insights on creating transformational change in school culture and academics. Leaders, here are three things you will learn from this episode: The power of focusing on Tier One Instruction over Intervention: Darren recounts his experience as a principal of a turnaround middle school where an initial heavy reliance on supplemental intervention programs resulted in...
2025-11-1153 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastPaul Freeman on Courage, Conversation, and Confident LeadershipHow do we prepare students to become empathic individuals and global citizens in an increasingly complex world? Dr. Paul Freeman, Superintendent of Guilford Public Schools and Connecticut's Superintendent of the Year, joins An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast to discuss leading transformational change through confident vulnerability. Dr. Freeman shares how Guilford's Portrait of a Graduate (POG) model guides instruction across all grade levels: developing students as adaptable learners, responsible collaborators, critical thinkers, effective communicators, empathic individuals, and global citizens. đĄ Highlights from the conversation: Making Thinking Visible: Moving from compliance to...
2025-11-041h 06
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastFrom Reflection to Renewal: Dr. John Anzalone and the North Star of Student-Centered LeadershipIn this week's episode, we sit down with Dr. John Anzalone, Superintendent of the Camas School District (WA). Dr. Anzalone shares his powerful reflections on leadership and what it truly means to lead with humility. Here are 3 lessons on imperfect leadership and courageous strategy we learned from John: đ 1. Establish a Clear North Star: Every financial decision should point back to one thing: students. đŹ 2. Lead with Courage and Vulnerability đ¤ 3. Rebuild Trust from Within: đď¸ Key Takeaway: Healthy systems are built on healthy relationships. Reflection, trust, and vulnerability aren't signs of weakness.Tthey're t...
2025-10-2849 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Deborah Wortham: How Leaders Set the Atmosphere for SuccessI had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Dr. Deborah Wortham, nationally recognized educator, author of the bestseller Setting the Atmosphere, and CEO of Wortham Educational Enterprises. Dr. Wortham shared powerful insights on how leaders move systems forward by focusing on culture, confidence, and consistency. If you're leading a system and striving to create the conditions for lasting transformation, here are 3 key takeaways: ⨠1. Setting the Atmosphere & Belief-Driven Leadership: Dr. Wortham grounds her leadership in creating a cultural field that gives people permission to grow, develop, and succeed. đ¤ 2. Collaborate in Circles, Not Silos: Dr. Worth...
2025-10-2151 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastSeeing the Unseen Child: David K. Richards and the Vision for Micro SchoolsWe recently had a powerful conversation with David K. Richards, nationally recognized education leader, innovator, CEO of Changemaker MicroSchools, and host of the Changemaker EDU podcast. The episode delves into an innovative model for educational leaders to consider. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation: 1. Understanding the Micro School Model A microschool is defined by its intimacy. David envisions Changemaker MicroSchools as small learning environments, which can range anywhere from five to 150 students. 2. Navigating Change: Disruption with Love Introducing bold ideas often means navigating resistance and naysayers. David advises leaders to get...
2025-10-1459 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastWhat If AI Were Your Business Partner? A Conversation with Matt LetaWhat If AI Were Your Business Partner? How can school leaders use AI as a thought partner and collaborator? The conversation around AI isn't about the future anymore, it's about now. This week's episode is a thought-provoking one. I sit down with Matt Leta, founder and CEO of FutureWorks, a serial entrepreneur, and a forward-thinking voice on AI in leadership and education. Matt doesn't just talk about AI. He lives it. In this conversation, he shares how he launched a company with AI as his business partner, what he learned from the experience, and how...
2025-10-0748 min
Changemaker EDâUâImperfect Leadership & Shared Vision in Education with Peter StieplemanIn this episode, David sits down with Peter Stieplemanâformer superintendent of one of Missouriâs largest school districts, leadership advisor, podcast host, and author of Serving as a Lead Learner: Powerful Reflections from Americaâs SuperintendentsPeter shares his unconventional path from working at the U.S. Embassy in Madrid to becoming a bilingual teacher in Oakland, California, and eventually leading a district of 19,000 students through times of both growth and crisis. He reflects on the lessons learned from embracing âimperfect leadership,â the importance of vulnerability, and the power of shared decision-making....
2025-10-0140 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastJohn Rogers: The Future of Education Depends on DemocracyWhat does it really mean to lead for democracy in our schools today? This week on An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, I sit down with Dr. John Rogers of UCLA's School of Education and Information Studies for a powerful conversation on one of the biggest drains on schools today: culturally divisive conflict. Dr. Rogers makes a clear distinction between healthy political debate and the anti-democratic conflict fueled by violent rhetoric and misinformation. His research reveals both the financial and human toll: đ¸ One midsize district spent $1M in staff time grappling wit...
2025-09-3054 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastFrom Skepticism to Trust: Dr. Jason Radford's JourneyThrilled to welcome Dr. Jason Radford, recently-retired Superintendent of Oldham County Schools (KY), to An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast. His journey is a terrific example of trust, strategy, and servant leadership. Here are three big takeaways for all of us imperfect leaders: ⨠1. Trust Through Transparency & Vulnerability: When trust was low and turnover high, Dr. Radford launched a "Rounding Roadshow" to connect with all 1,500 employees. In year one, he publicly shared the most critical feedback (including comments about himself). That honesty shifted the culture. By year three, 99% said the district was on the ri...
2025-09-231h 01
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Carl Cohn and Navigating the New Reality of Public School Leadership Public schools are now the "frontline of America's intensifying cultural and political conflicts," and many superintendents find themselves unprepared for this new level of engagement. In my conversation with Dr. Carl Cohn, former superintendent in Long Beach and San Diego, McGraw Prize winner, and elected member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, we explored how the very nature of educational leadership has fundamentally changed. Dr. Cohn's work with the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE) and the Hewlett Foundation underscores what today's leaders must embrace. 3 Key Shifts for Leaders to Pay...
2025-09-1656 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastIn the Future Business: Leadership Lessons with Lars Clemensen This week, our guest is Lars Clemensen, the Superintendent of Hampton Bays Union Free School District and President of NYSCOSS. Lars shares profound insights on leadership, community connection, and what it truly means to prepare students for a dynamic future. This episode offers lessons for all educational leaders. Here are three things we encourage you to listen for: đĄ Schools as the "Future Business" and Community Investment: Lars describes schools as being "in the future business" and emphasizes that budget expenses should be seen as investments in a stronger community, not just costs. đĄ Mastering Crisis...
2025-09-0959 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDaniel Sobel: Elevating Inclusive Education with the Rise of the Practitioner đ˘ New Podcast and New Season! Elevating Inclusive Education with Daniel Sobel on An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast! đ§ We are thrilled to share the beginning of season 4 with this episode featuring Daniel Sobel, an internationally respected voice in inclusion education, and the founder and chair of the International Forum of Inclusion Practitioners. Daniel champions student participation and belonging while tackling systemic issues like teacher training. In this insightful conversation, we dive into two crucial areas: 1. The Power of Teacher Upskilling for Inclusive Classrooms: Daniel emphasizes that u...
2025-09-0248 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Jenn Lowery: Progress Over Perfection đď¸ Final Episode of Season 3! đ§ Don't miss the powerful insights from our conversation with Dr. Jenn Lowery, former Superintendent of Tea Area School District in South Dakota (now the Harrisburg, South Dakota Superintendent, as we wrap up an incredible Season 3 of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast! đ Dr. Lowery led one of the fastest-growing districts in South Dakota, having grown to over 2000 students today. She shares invaluable lessons on leading through significant growth and challenging times. Here are 2 big takeaways from this inspiring episode: Progress Over Perfection & Community-Driven Leadership...
2025-08-2645 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Eric Knost: Where Imperfection Defines Perfection in LeadershipNew school year is in full swing for many and is just weeks away for others! As leaders, we often strive for perfection, but what if embracing imperfection is our greatest strength? In this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, we're honored to host Dr. Eric Knost, a former superintendent with 34 years of experience in the education field, including 17 years as a superintendent and deputy superintendent in three different school districts. Eric shares his journey, emphasizing that prioritizing people, honesty, and vulnerability are the true hallmarks of...
2025-08-1956 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastThe Best Award? A Student's Respect â Dr. Mark Bedell on Leading with Purpose Get ready for an insightful conversation on the latest episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast featuring the esteemed Dr. Mark Bedell, Superintendent of Anne Arundel County Public Schools. Mark's journey and leadership offer powerful lessons on authentic impact, learning from challenges, and leading with humility. Mark is celebrated for leading Kansas City Public Schools to full accreditation status for the first time in over 20 years, a testament to his transformative leadership. But as you'll hear, his most cherished accolades come directly from the students he serves. Here...
2025-08-1248 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastMichael Nelson Sees the Good: How Proximity and Relationships Lead to Student Success Dive into the latest episode of "An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast" featuring the incredible Michael Nelson, former Superintendent of Enumclaw School District and former Assistant Executive Director for professional learning for the Washington Association of School Administrators. This conversation offers profound insights into what truly drives educational success. Michael's dedication to student achievement, especially for First Nations/Native students in Enumclaw, led to remarkable results, including 100% graduation rates for students in the cultural program and rates 33 percentage points higher than the national average for Native American students overall. ...
2025-08-0541 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastNothing for Them, Without Them: Dr. Monique Darrisaw-Akil's Humble, Reflective Leadership đ˘ Encore Episode: A Must-Listen for School Leaders! đ§ As educators across the country gear up for a new school year, we're bringing back one of our most powerful conversations featuring Dr. Monique Darrisaw-Akil, Superintendent of the Uniondale School District in New York. đ Dr. Darrisaw Akil led a massive cultural and educational shift in a district that had been facing significant challenges. This episode is full of honest reflections and practical leadership lessons. Here are 3 big takeaways: đż Imperfect Leadership as a Strength Dr. Darrisaw Akil defines an imperfect leader as someone "...
2025-07-2956 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastWhat Community Really Means: Lessons from the Bronx with Dr. Meisha PorterThe most unexpected thing happened the other day. My car was on the fritz, and to my surprise, the mechanic offered to swing by my house. That alone was generous. He popped the hood, diagnosed the issue, and had it fixed in no time. Now, just when I thought the day couldn't get any more unusual, he spotted a ukulele sitting on my table. Without missing a beat, he grabbed a guitar from his truck. Minutes later, we were strumming in my driveway - two strangers improvising a melody with no script, no pressure⌠just music.
2025-07-1554 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Adam Swinyard on Public Education as a Promise and Relationships at the Core (Encore Episode)This past week has seen many of us in education trying to make sense of what the future holds. It's for that reason, I wanted to bring back my conversation with Dr. Adam Swinyard, Superintendent of Spokane Public Schools and the 2023 Washington State Superintendent of the Year đ Here are đ highlights from this inspiring episode: đĄ Organizational Learning = Higher School Performance Adam's award-winning research found a clear correlation between principals who engage in organizational learning and better school outcomes. đŤâ¨ He urges leaders to avoid quick fixes and instead diagnose issues within the full ecosystem of variables. â¤ď¸âđĽ Hi...
2025-07-0853 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastImperfect by Design: What Michael Lubelfeld and Nick Polyak Learned from Crisis and Innovation đ˘ New Episode Alert! đ§ We're thrilled to share a powerful new episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast! This week, we sit down with two incredible Illinois Superintendents: Dr. Nick Polyak and Dr. Michael Lubelfeld. This conversation is packed with wisdom, vulnerability, and practical insights for anyone in leadership! Here are three key themes you won't want to miss: ⨠"Leading for Tomorrow's Schools Today" & The C.H.A.N.G.E. Leadership Framework: Nick and Mike, co-authors of the upcoming book Leading for Tomorrow's Schools Today, dive deep into their innovative C.H.A.N...
2025-07-0154 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastAuthentic Leadership in Action: Marlon Styles Brags About What's Right in Public Education đď¸Join us on An Imperfect Leader with trailblazing Marlon Styles!đď¸ This week on An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, we get to feature Marlon Styles, former Superintendent of Middletown City School District (OH) and current Partner at the Learner Center Collaborative. đŤđź đ Named K12 Dive's Superintendent of the Year in 2020, Marlon is a fierce advocate for educational equity and a visionary leader in learner-centered education. In this powerful conversation, Marlon shares lessons on leadership, innovation, and community engagement. Here are 3ď¸âŁ themes you won't want to miss: đ Embracing Imperfect Leadership & Chasing Progr...
2025-06-2455 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastCrisis to Clarity: Essential Lessons for Superintendents from Communications Expert Veronica SopherThis week, we had an incredibly conversation with Veronica Sopher, an award-winning media-trained public information officer and founder of Veronica Sopher K12 Communications Consulting. With 25+ years of experience counseling school leaders, Veronica shared invaluable wisdom on navigating the complexities of educational leadership. đŤđĄ  We delved into how superintendents can build trust and shape compelling narratives, especially during high-stakes moments and crises. Veronica's approach starts with a fundamental question: What problem are we trying to solve?  We explored the powerful role of emotion, particularly fear, in community interactions. Veronica shed light on how deep-seat...
2025-06-1757 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastWhat 30+ Years in the Superintendency Taught Dr. Dennis Peterson About Leadership Today In this week's episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, we sit down with veteran superintendent Dr. Dennis Peterson to explore the shifting landscape of school leadership over the decades. đ đĄ Key Insights: đ Leadership Has Evolved: From autocratic to inclusive, with school boards now at the center of decision-making. đ§Â Courageous, Inclusive Leadership Matters: Superintendents must proactively build trust with boards, unions, and the broader community. đŤÂ Strategic Open Enrollment: Dennis shares how Minnetonka used open enrollment to grow enrollment, expand programs, and better serve students. đ Lessons from Mistakes: A bond issue in Rockw...
2025-06-0753 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastThe Power of Wholehearted Leadership with Dr. Kathryn Fishman-Weaverđ The Power of Wholehearted Leadership: 4 Key Insights from Dr. Kathryn Fishman-Weaver đ In this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, we have an incredible conversation with Dr. Kathryn Fishman-Weaver, the Executive Director of Mizzou Academy. Some key takeaways from our conversation include: đ 1. Stories Are the Shortest Distance Between People "Stories are the connective tissue that holds us all together. The space to share who we are - being fully human - doesn't happen by accident." đ¤ 2. Wisdom Is Everywhere - Embrace Shared Leadership "The most important ideas for school improvement...
2025-06-0355 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Laura ChĂĄvez-Moreno and How Schools Make Race: What They Miss by Staying in "Sesame Street"This week on An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, we talk with UCLA's Dr. Laura Chavez Moreno, author of "How Schools Make Race: Teaching Latinx Racialization in America". Dr. Chavez Moreno's work challenges us to think beyond superficial approaches to racial identity in schools. Here are three key themes and insights from our conversation: Schools implicitly make race through practices and policies. Beyond explicit lessons on race, schools reinforce racial ideas through their structures. As Dr. ChĂĄvez Moreno explains, "Schools make race through implicit ways also... through the policies and the practices t...
2025-05-2748 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastBeyond the Checklist: Jill Molli and Leading School Culture with a Conscious Bullseyeđ New episode alert! đ§ Tune into the latest episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast featuring Jill Molli, Chief Growth Officer for Conscious Discipline. We had a truly insightful conversation about how conscious leadership can drive significant culture shifts in education! Here are a few key takeaways from our discussion: đŻ Transforming Culture: Shifting culture isn't about checklists and compliance. Jill suggests leaders "shift from your checklist in your brain and move to a bullseye." This means focusing on building internal skills at the core of the system. đ§ââď¸ Leading with Self-Regulation: When faced with challen...
2025-05-2051 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastRestorative Practices for School Leaders to Embed Systems & Shift Adult Culture with Nicholas BradfordIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, Peter Stiepleman sits down with Nicholas Bradford, Founder and Executive Director of the National Center for Restorative Justice. Nicholas is also the co-author of A Real-World Guide to Restorative Justice in Schools: Practical Philosophy, Useful Tools, and True Stories. He shares how building authentic relationships and embedding restorative systems, rather than isolated programs, is critical for cultivating trust, accountability, and resilience in schools. Nicholas Bradford discusses how restorative practices are proactive efforts to build culture and reduce burnout among school leaders. He explains how schools...
2025-05-1359 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastHow This Principal Fixed a Failing School Culture to Hit the Top 5% - Amy GallowayIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, Peter Stiepleman sits down with Dr. Amy Galloway, former principal, state education leader, and co-founder of Pivot School Improvement Leaders. As a school leader, Amy led one of Tennessee's most dramatic school turnarounds, moving a neighborhood school in Nashville from the bottom 5% to the top 5% in just four years. She later served at the Tennessee Department of Education, where she supported principals, assistant principals, and supervisors across the state. Dr. Amy Galloway reflects on the challenges leaders face in times of transition, from navigating isolation...
2025-05-0653 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastInnovation Lessons for School Leaders to Build Real Student Agency with Josh ReppunIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, Peter Stiepleman sits down with Josh Reppun, host and Global Community Director of What School Could Be. Josh, a former history teacher turned educational innovator, shares his journey of challenging traditional education models. Through his work with the What School Could Be initiative, Josh is helping lead the conversation on student-driven learning and community involvement in education reform. Josh's story is one of transformation, from teaching in Hawaii to curating conversations with educators worldwide. He explores how creative, real-world learning can redefine the future of...
2025-04-221h 06
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastFrom Controversy to Collaboration: Co-designing Education in Anacortes with Dr. Justin IrishIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Justin Irish, Superintendent of the Anacortes School District in Washington and a former principal at Edmonds School District. Dr. Justin Irish shares how systems thinking, co-design, and meaningful partnerships have helped his district navigate mental health challenges, budget shortfalls, and equity conversations. We discuss his strategic approach to transparent budgeting, the importance of shared decision-making, and the lessons he learned through vulnerability and community engagement. From establishing mental health supports across schools to leading the redesign of the highly capable...
2025-04-1557 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastCultural Frameworks for K-8 Leaders to Build Equity and Cut Suspensions with Dr. Lupita Ley HightowerIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Lupita Ley Hightower, the 2023 Arizona Superintendent of the Year and the 2024 Voice for Equity Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. Dr. Hightower, who recently retired from her role as the superintendent of the Tolleson Elementary School District #17, shares insights from her 28 years in education, discussing the cultural framework she built to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background. We discuss her proudest achievements, including the creation of equitable access to arts, music, and counseling programs, and her...
2025-04-0846 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastHow Student Leadership & Community Engagement Are Transformative for Schools with Michelle CaulfieldIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, I sit down with Michelle Caulfield, Superintendent of the Corning-Painted Post Area School District in Corning, New York. Michelle shares how her district is expanding access to opportunities by centering student voice, investing in innovative programs, and building a culture of connection and belonging. We discuss how inclusive, student-led clubs are transforming school culture, how unique programs like drone soccer and unified sports are engaging students in new ways, and how Michelle is leading with empathy while navigating challenges like recruitment and budget constraints. She...
2025-04-0152 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastUnlocking Communication: Moises Morgenstern of Empat Speech on Bridging the Speech Therapy GapIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, I sit down with Moises Morgenstern, co-founder and CEO of Empat Speech, a leading platform that connects schools with experienced speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Moises shares how his company is improving access to speech therapy using technology, addressing the nationwide shortage of SLPs, and supporting schools in providing high-quality speech-language services. We discuss how telehealth speech therapy is transforming support for students, particularly in rural communities where access to in-person specialists is limited. Moises discusses the importance of bilingual speech therapy, strategies for managing caseloads in...
2025-03-2542 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastHow Going Phone-Free Increased Student Focus and Improved School Culture with Damian McBeathIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, I'm joined by Damian McBeath, Principal of the John Wallis Church of England Academy. As an experienced school leader and author, Damian brings a wealth of knowledge on education reform, leadership, and the evolving role of schools in shaping students beyond academics. During our discussion, Damian and I discussed how schools can foster whole-child development through experiential learning and why reducing digital distractions has become essential for student engagement. We also discuss his experience testifying before the UK Parliament on phone-free policies and the cultural...
2025-03-1150 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastAI in education and navigating a school through crises with Dr. Curtis CainIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Curtis Cain, Superintendent of the Rockwood School District and 2022's National Superintendent of the Year. With decades of experience in educational leadership, Dr. Cain offers deep insights into navigating the complexities of leading a major school district through unprecedented times. During our discussion, Dr. Cain and I explored what constitutes effective leadership in the ever-evolving landscape of education. We explore the critical roles of trust and accountability in maintaining team cohesion and morale during crises. If you're an educator...
2025-03-0451 min
What Are You Made Of?Embracing Imperfection: Leadership Lessons from Superintendent Peter StieplemanMike "C-Roc" welcomes Dr. Peter Stiepleman, an accomplished educational leader with a diverse background, including recognition as Missouri Superintendent of the Year.
Peter shares insights from his unique leadership journey, navigating the complexities of public education in communities as varied as Oakland, California, and Columbia, Missouri, to his current work coaching leaders and EdTech firms.
C-Roc and Peter dive into the challenges superintendents face, the often-overlooked political pressures in education, and Peterâs approach to "imperfect leadership" â an inspiring, human-centered philosophy aimed at driving systemic change.
2024-10-2830 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastRedefining School Leadership: A Conversation with Dr. Peter Dillon INTRO: Welcome to today's episode of An Imperfect Leader, where we sit down with Dr. Peter Dillon, a superintendent in Western Massachusetts. Peter shares his experiences working in a rural region serving, at one time, two school districts and the lessons he learned along the way. In this episode, he shares insights on leading multiple districts, the challenges and rewards of serving small communities, and the process of redesigning what it means to be a high school student in a post-COVID world. Don't miss this conversation about harvesting collective wisdom, overcoming budget crises, and fostering...
2024-06-2535 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastMerle Horowitz Reminds Us to Empathize, Sympathize, and Energize In this week's An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, we dive into another authentic story of someone navigating the complexities of leadership. I'm your host, Peter Stiepleman, and today, we have the honor of welcoming a remarkable leader, Merle Horowitz. Today, we'll explore Merle's journey through a lens of empathy, resilience, and the pursuit of progress - or in her wise words: we're going to empathize, sympathize, and energize. With a focus on the profound impact of mentors and the challenges of cyberbullying in education, Merle shares her insights drawn from years of...
2024-05-1437 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastMission & Purpose: Insights from John McGlothlin INTRO: I was interested to see how ChatGPT might create an intro for me. I gave it some information and it spat out: "Welcome to a journey that transcends the conventional boundaries of education. Imagine a school where purpose is not just a buzzword but the very essence that breathes life into every corridor, classroom, and curriculum." Yeesh. I asked it to sound less like a carnival announcer and it got worse: "Hey there, folks! Get ready for a wild ride into the heart and soul of education â where pu...
2024-04-1638 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastRelentless Leadership with Yaw Obeng Intro: As I prepared for this week's episode, I traded in personal anecdotes with a traditional story, one about two farmers and their approach to change. One always bought the latest tools for his farm, hoping they would solve his problems. Meanwhile, his neighbor focused on building relationships with other farmers, learning from their experiences, and sharing his own knowledge. When a drought hit, the first farmer struggled alone with his fancy equipment, while his neighbor's network came together to devise solutions. In the end, it was the approach of building in instead...
2024-03-1238 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastCharting the Course: Sean Stewart Provides Lessons from the Past for Today's Leaders INTRO: Join me on this episode of An Imperfect Leader for a captivating discussion with Sean Stewart, an expert in historical leadership. We explore how lessons from the past can shape today's leadership practices, offering valuable insights for leaders across all fields. In this episode, we'll shift our focus to the demanding roles of school leaders and the critical importance of establishing a shared vision of success. Sean will share his expertise and shed light on how historical perspectives can inform and enrich contemporary leadership approaches in education. His knowledge of all things nautical is also a...
2024-02-2025 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastFacing the Crucible: Dr. Gary Yee's Lesson of Adversity and Healing INTRO: My guest this week holds a special place in my professional life. I met him during his first campaign for the school board in Oakland, CA. In the second part of the show, my guest, Dr. Gary Yee, describes what has got to be one of the most difficult experiences of any superintendent â the vandalizing of his home, navigating a hunger strike of two teachers, and community members occupying a school, all in response to proposed school closures. Other Topics Discussed: Superintendent Tenures Community Engagement Superintendent/Board Relations Dr. Marcus Foster Hunger Strike Hartford, Connecticut Ca...
2024-02-1344 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastTheir Parents FaceTime Them In Class? Diego Ochoa and Graham Dugoni Describe A Phone-Free Approach INTRO: In this episode of An Imperfect Leader, join us as we delve into the world of education leadership with Superintendent Diego Ochoa, a veteran with over 25 years of experience, and Graham Dugoni, the founder of Yondr â a pioneer in creating phone-free spaces. Together, they discuss the impact of going phone-free on student success and the compelling purpose that drives their work. Discover how the San Mateo-Foster City Schools district's strategic plan, led by Diego, was influenced by the decision to minimize distractions and create a focused learning environment. Graham shares insights from working alongside school leaders gl...
2024-02-0636 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Sheldon Berman Talks Integration, Division, and the Importance of Knowing Our History INTRO: This episode is coming out just as I have returned from co-presenting at a conference hosted by the Coalition of Oregon School Administrators (or COSA). During our presentation, we talked about distinguishing between reform and transformation. Specifically, that reform is usually made up of outside forces telling you what to do, coaching for compliance and using sticks and carrots to get results. Whereas transformation is about establishing your district's compelling purpose. It relies on cycles of inquiry and peer coaching, and adjusting the goal, when appropriate. It relies on appreciative inquiry, the act at looking at what's going...
2024-01-3036 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastLeading with Purpose with Dr. Meisha Porter INTRO: The most unexpected thing happened the other day. I was having car issues and the mechanic offered to do a home visit. That in itself was a nice gesture. He found the issue (resolved it pretty quickly, actually. If you're dying to know, it was an electrical issue beyond my expertise. Ok, let's be honest, I have no expertise beyond the radio shack club at the summer camp I attended as a kid where I soldered together a motion detector one summer. You had to be within something like 4 inches for it to actually detect you!
2024-01-2335 min
Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators315: Human Centered Leadership in K12 education with Dr. Peter StieplemanOn today we speak with Dr. Peter Stiepleman, 2021 Missouri Superintendent of the Year. We explore keys to a human-centered leadership approach. Ready to meet our guest? Peter Stiepleman, EdD. Author, Leadership Coach, and Inspirational Speaker Dr. Peter Stiepleman is a locally, regionally, and nationally recognized leader who uses the power of storytelling to help leaders design better systems and help make complex concepts easier to understand. Peter is a self-starting, creative leader with experience engaging with diverse communities, from the United States Embassy in Madrid, Spain, to corporate insurance offices in San Francisco...
2023-12-1837 min
Unlocked with Skot WaldronUnlocking The Imperfect Leader With Dr. Peter Stiepleman"Unlocking The Imperfect Leader With Dr. Peter Stiepleman" is a thought-provoking podcast that redefines leadership paradigms. Hosted by Dr. Peter Stiepleman, this podcast dives deep into the concept of imperfect leadership, showcasing how embracing vulnerabilities and learning from mistakes can lead to remarkable growth and success. Through engaging interviews, personal anecdotes, and expert discussions, the podcast challenges the conventional notions of flawless leadership, emphasizing authenticity and self-improvement. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an emerging one, this podcast offers valuable insights and practical wisdom to help unlock your true leadership potential by embracing imperfections. Website: https://ilaa...
2023-09-1936 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastThe person who talks the most learns the most: A conversation about coaching with Dr. Amy IllingworthBook Update! Imperfect Leaders! You can now order my book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action. Click on the link here, and if there is no hyperlink, go to peterstiepleman.com, you can order it there. AND if you liked it, would you please leave a positive review? I'm hoping to get 35 positive reviews on Amazon. Thanks! Imperfect Leaders! This week, Dr. Amy Illingworth is my guest. Amy is the Assistant Superintendent of Educational Servies for the Encinitas Union School District in Encinitas, California. She is the author...
2023-07-1129 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDiploma Plus One - Creating Multiple Pathways for High School Students - Dr. Vickie Murillo Book Update! You can preorder my forthcoming book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action. Click on the link here. Or if there is no hyperlink, go to peterstiepleman.com and order it there. Imperfect Leaders! This week on an Imperfect Leader, Dr. Vickie Murillo is my guest. Dr. Murillo has served as the Superintendent of the Council Bluffs Community School District in Council Bluffs, Iowa since July of 2017. As Superintendent, Dr. Murillo has charted a course to ensure all students are future ready. She has done this by championing Early College Academy located on the...
2023-04-1132 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastRestorative Practices and Reevaluated Attendance Practices in Baltimore - Matt Hornbeck Book Update! You can preorder my forthcoming book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action. Click on the link here. Or if there is no hyperlink, go to peterstiepleman.com and order it there. Imperfect Leaders! This week, Matt Hornbeck is my guest. He is the principal of Hampstead Hill Academy in Baltimore, Maryland. In our conversation, we talk about the importance of relationships in schools and we talk about restorative practices (he describes the process of fixing what has been broken so so well). In his After Action Review, we talk about the early yea...
2023-04-0431 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastThe Epitome of Human-Centered Leadership with Dr. Adam Swinyard Hello Imperfect Leaders! This week, Dr. Adam Swinyard is my guest. Adam is the superintendent of the Spokane Public Schools in Spokane, Washington. The first part of our conversation is dedicated to Adam's dissertation research and how there is a correlation between principals who regularly assess school culture with the success of the children in that school. I found it to be really interesting. Adam's After Action Review is all about the pandemic. Adam is smart and inspiring. Thanks for tuning in! BIO: The Spokane Public Schools board of directors named Dr. Adam Swinyard superintendent i...
2023-03-2832 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastAn Unfinished Leader is Nearly Finished By His Decision! - Dr. Nick Polyak Dr. Nick Polyak is my guest. Nick is the superintendent for Leyden Community High School District in Cook County, Illinois. During our conversation, we talk about The Unfinished Leader, a book he has co-written with colleagues (they've written a few!). He also describes a community of lead learners he brings together through #suptchat, a Twitter community he co-moderates. Nick describes the process he followed when accepting a new superintendency, and how his greatest lesson was to include those most impacted by his decision to accept the job. Thanks for tuning in! Bio: Dr. Nick Polyak ha...
2023-03-2128 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastEvery Vote Counts: Tony Aylsworth Describes His First Bond Election Hello Imperfect Leaders! In this episode of An Imperfect Leader, Dr. Tony Aylsworth is my guest. As many know, the aim of this podcast is to learn about how superintendents think, plan, lead, use systems, and learn lessons. In this episode, Tony tells us about his experience leading two school district in Iowa simultaneously and he tells us about what he learned from a bond election (and how EVERY vote counts). Thanks for tuning in!  BIO: Tony has been the Superintendent of the Pleasantville Community Schools, in Pleasantville, Iowa since 2014. Before that, he was a hi...
2023-03-1433 min
#ELB Education Leadership and BeyondELB 238 Dr. Peter Stiepleman: Superintendent, Author, and System Thinker Leader#ELB 238 Dr. Peter Stiepleman: Superintendent, Author, and System Thinker Leader
2023-03-1146 min
Education Leadership and BeyondELB 238 Dr. Peter Stiepleman: Superintendent, Author, and System Thinker Leader#ELB 238 Dr. Peter Stiepleman: Superintendent, Author, and System Thinker Leader
2023-03-1146 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDon't Cross the Crossing Guard - Nate Levenson In this episode of an Imperfect Leader, Nate Levenson is my guest. In our conversation, we talk about the budgeting process and the importance of engaging in high levels of collaboration. During his After Action Review, Nate describes his experience of eliminating the school's crossing guards, a decision he believed to be the right one based on the data. He learned a lot about the politics surrounding a decision. BIO: Nate is a former Massachusetts superintendent and is president of New Solutions K12. Nate is an author, most recently publishing Six Shifts to Improve Special Education and Ot...
2023-03-0734 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastA Whole Lotta Marotta! - Andrew Marotta Reflects On Interpersonal RelationshipsFirst of AWL (that's first of all for you non-New Yorkers), my Long Island accent appears in full force from time to time during my conversation with Andrew Marotta. Mr. Marotta is a high school principal and self-described as "an energetic and enthusiastic school leader who has put his positive imprint on his beloved school, Port Jervis High School, in Port Jervis, NY." In his After Action Review, Andrew reflects on how leaders must consider how their interpersonal behaviors bring people in or push people away. He called it "A WHOLE LOTTA Marotta!" BIO: Andrew Ma...
2023-02-2831 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastWhen a Full Year-Round Model Wasn't Planned Fully with Dr. Mark BedellHello Imperfect Leaders! This week, Dr. Mark T. Bedell is my guest. Mark and I became friends during his 6 years as the Superintendent of the Kansas City Public Schools, but Mark is no longer a Missouri resident. He began a four-year term as Superintendent of Anne Arundel County Public Schools on July 1, 2022, Maryland's fourth largest school district. BIO: Dr. Bedell is a talented, caring teacher, administrator and proven public school leader with a track record of success in urban districts. In 2022, he led Kansas City Public Schools to full accreditation status for the...
2023-02-2135 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastYou're Going to Close Our School? Dr. Torres-Rodriguez from Hartford, CT.In this episode of An Imperfect Leader, Dr. Leslie Torres-Rodriguez is my guest. Dr. Torres-Rodriguez is the Superintendent in Hartford, CT, a school district with about 17,000 students. Leslie cares so deeply for her district because her district is so personal to her - she graduated from the Hartford Public Schools and then returned to lead it. In her After Action Review, she describes the process she used to make the recommendation to consolidate (close) schools in her school district. Thanks for tuning in! BIO: Dr. Torres-Rodriguez was named the 2022 National Superintendent of the Year by...
2023-02-1433 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastPandemic Perspectives from a Vulnerable Leader - Dr. Kenny RodrequezThis week on An Imperfect Leader, Dr. Kenny Rodrequez is my guest. Dr. Rodrequez has been the Superintendent of the Grandview C-4 School District since 2016. In our conversation, Kenny references the work his district has done on Introducing children to authentic experiences, including Project Lead the Way. Kenny uses the power of language to convey his thoughts on systems and system thinking. More than anything, he makes some of the most genuine reflections about the global pandemic. Thanks for tuning in! BIO: Dr. Rodrequez has served in several capacities throughout his career. He created and i...
2023-02-0734 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastFrom Fail Fests to All the Rest: Dr. Alena Zachery-Ross Embraces the Role of An Imperfect LeaderThis week, on An Imperfect Leader, Dr. Alena E. Zachery-Ross is my guest. This conversation has it all. We talk about an annual Fail Fest where Alena's team put a spotlight on actions that fell short. We talk about board relations and how leaders often learn the hard lesson of learning how to partner with their board. We talk about the low of resigning from her position to the highs of having her work become the model for the entire state of Michigan. Thanks for tuning in! BIO: Dr. Zachery-Ross is a self-described native Detroiter and has...
2023-01-3132 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastWhen a Seemingly Small Change Has Huge Consequences - Superintendent of the Year, Rob ClaytonThis week on An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action, Dr. Rob Clayton is my guest. As superintendent of the Warren County Public Schools in Bowling Green, Kentucky, Rob has seen a 25% growth in students, which now number about 18,000 in grades pre-K through 12 representing 103 different languages. In this episode, Rob shows how managing and leading that kind of growth requires a lot of skills.  BIO: Dr. Rob Clayton has been a science teacher, a track coach, a basketball coach, a football coach, an assistant principal, a principal, and a superintendent. Dr. Clayton was recently named Kentucky's 2023 Superintendent of...
2023-01-2434 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastA New Superintendent's Perspective on Helping a Teacher with a Difficult Parent - David GeurinIn this episode of an Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action, David Geurin is my guest. David is in his first year as Superintendent of Fair Play School District in Southwest Missouri. His After Action Review topic is one leaders in ANY field have to negotiate. When do you step in to support? A teacher in his district was having a hard time with a challenging parent. Dave coached and supported. Looking back, he had some new thoughts on how he handled the situation. Give a listen! BIO: David has been the principal of a National Blue R...
2023-01-1728 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastThoughtExchange CEO, Dave MacLeod, Epitomizes Human-Centered Leadership (and Advises Us How to Ask the Right Question!)In this episode of An Imperfect Leader, Dave MacLeod is my guest. Dave is NOT a superintendent, but he and the company he leads, ThoughtExchange, have helped superintendents across the nation harvest the wisdom of their communities to make better decisions. During the episode, you'll hear Dave say he is a 6 ft. tall white man. There's a reason why that's relevant. Did you know that studies have shown there are more CEOs named David in the Fortune 500 than there are female CEOs in total?? Furthermore the majority of those CEOs are white males who are 6ft. tall.
2023-01-0637 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastBryan Luizzi and How His Insights from Finland Became Best Practices in the SuperintendencyI almost called this episode What's More Valuable Than Mithril? This Episode with Bryan Luizzi. I resisted because of the obvious Lord of the Rings reference, and how it might resonate with a very select group of leaders! This episode is a terrific one. We talk about Bryan's time teaching principals in Jordan and I ask him to talk a little about a real innovation in his community - the planetarium (or soon to be known as the Dome). In his After Action Review, Bryan reflects back on his participation in an education outreach trip to Finland. He returned w...
2023-01-0329 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastAn Unexpected Leader in a Rural District: A Conversation with Alexander BrittainIn this episode of an Imperfect Leader, we've invited Alexander Brittain to be my guest. The title of this episode is An Unexpected Leader because Alex didn't necessarily plan to be a superintendent. It sorta just happened. Alex has been a principal and a superintendent, and is currently working in a different capacity. BIO: Alexander has been a California educator for more than 20 years. In 2022, he completed his term as the superintendent of the Manchester Union Elementary School District. Alexander describes himself as someone who "leads with empathy, kindness and humor, is passionate about the success of...
2022-12-2731 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastMatt Robbins Explains What You Do When the Bus Routing System Crashes and You Have to Postpone the Start of the School Year!In this episode of An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action, Matt Robbins is my guest. Matt is the Superintendent of the Daviess County Public Schools in Daviess County, Kentucky. What's different about Matt is that he didn't follow a traditional route to the superintendency. His background is in finance. In this episode, we talk a little about how his past experiences help him in his current job. His After Action Review is one all superintendents should be prepared to deal with. What happens when you adopt new routing software for your bus system and it crashes? What happens...
2022-12-2033 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDon't Look a Gift Horse in the Mouth? Social Media and Technology Adoption - Dr. Scott WoolstenhulmeToday on an Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action, Dr. Scott Woolstenhulme joins us. Scott and I talk about the use of social media to engage stakeholders. Plus, we talk about a challenge most school leaders encounter - the adoption of technology. Determining the best time to purchase hardware and/or software is a complex question. In this case, the state was providing the technology, but the infrastructure just wasn't there. BIO: Scott grew up on a small farm just outside of Victor, Idaho. He has been a high school teacher, an assistant principal, the principal of a...
2022-12-1331 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastPandemic Problem: When to Bring Students Back? - Dr. Jim WipkeThis week, Dr. Jim Wipke to joins the podcast. Jim talks about the power of supporting resilience (a dimension from the Human-Centered School Transformation Model) and he breaks down a decision he made during the pandemic - the decision to bring back kindergartners. BIO: Dr. Jim Wipke has been the Superintendent of the Ladue School District, outside of St. Louis, since 2019 and has extensive experience at all levels of the public school education system. Jim also enjoys highlighting his own lived experiences, as well as spotlighting the amazing people in his personal and professional life. T...
2022-12-0633 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Quintin Shepherd Encourages Leaders to Seek Feedforward (He Knows it's Not a Real Word)In this episode of An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action, my guest is Dr. Quintin Shepherd of the Victoria Public Schools in Victoria, Texas. We talk about a number of lessons from his book, The Secret to Transformational Leadership, including the difference between #complicated and #complex. We talk about making decisions with those most impacted by the decision you're going to make and Q (for the record, he encouraged me to call him Q) reflects on his decision to "cancel Halloween!" Q is engaging and fantastic! Give a listen!  BIO: Dr. Shepherd is the su...
2022-11-2931 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Shari Camhi - Excellence Doesn't Begin With a DeclarationIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action, Dr. Shari Camhi is my guest. We talk about Ron Berger's book, An Ethic of Excellence. We talk about what learning spaces currently look like for children and a shift in what they could look like. Dr. Camhi brings people together to rethink the relationship between curriculum and learning spaces - and she even has a word for it: innovatrium. And we talk about excellence - it doesn't begin with a declaration. Give a listen! BIO: Dr. Shari Camhi has been the superintendent of Baldwin Union Fr...
2022-11-2228 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastLiving the values of relationships, innovation, passion for learning, and accountability with Dr. Kim Pietsch-Miller.In this episode of An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action, Dr. Kim Pietsch-Miller joins us. Dr. Pietsch-Miller is the Superintendent/CEO of Eastland-Fairfield Career and Technical Schools in Columbus, Ohio. I ask Kim to talk about the distinction between planning vs preparing (the topic of a recent article she wrote). Kim talks about establishing values with her community (and living them). Kim also describes the importance of serving children first, and how sometimes that requires courage. BIO: Dr. Kim Pietsch-Miller is the Superintendent/CEO of Eastland-Fairfield Career and Technical Schools in Columbus, OH. She was previously t...
2022-11-1531 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDr. Joe Davis - In Ferguson and beyond, math is the ticket.In this episode of An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action, my guest is the Superintendent from Ferguson-Florissant, Dr. Joe Davis. In our conversation, we talk about programming for #STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math). We talk about #faith. We talk about how leaders monitor progress, and make midcourse course corrections, when needed. You can't talk with Joe Davis and not talk about his greatest passion - mathematics. Give a listen as he deconstructs a decision he made to train teachers to be the best #math teachers. BIO: Dr. Joe Davis has been the Superintendent of t...
2022-11-0835 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastYou're a Good School, Not a Great School - Dr. Deanna AshbyThis week on An Imperfect Leader, Dr. Deanna Ashby is my guest. Deanna is a retired superintendent who now works as a leader coach with Studer Education in Madisonville, Kentucky (link below). Deanna urges school leaders to pause and reflect before planning. BIO: Dr. Ashby's five years as a superintendent built a strong belief in education and her mission in the field. Working in public schools for 29 years, Deanna has come to consider education a calling that has a positive impact on the community. Deanna has served as a high school business and m...
2022-11-0133 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastThe strength a vulnerable and human-centered leader brings to the job.This week, Dr. Eric Knost, Superintendent of MERS/Missouri Goodwill Excel Center, a system of adult high schools. During our conversation, we talk about the role of adult high schools and their ties to ecomomic development. We talk about leadership, specifically vulnerable and human-centered leadership. BIO: Dr. Eric Knost is serving as the Superintendent of MERS/Missouri Goodwill Excel Center. Eric has thirty-four years' experience in the education field, and seventeen years of experience as a superintendent and deputy superintendent in three school districts in Iowa and Missouri.
2022-10-2538 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastThe Importance of Succession Planning - Trisha Kocanda Imperfect Leaders! My book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available on Amazon.com. If there is no hyperlink to follow, please go to Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com. You can order it there. Intro: This week, I am thrilled to spend time with a friend, Dr. Trisha Kocanda, Superintendent of Fremont 79, a PreK-8 school district outside of Chicago, IL. During our conversation, we talk about vulnerable leadership (a shout out to Brene Brown!) and we talk about the process for reaching a shared image of what a graduate looks like (somet...
2022-10-1838 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastPast + Present = The Motivation for a Better Future. Sharonica Hardin-BartleyThis week, I am thrilled to spend time with a friend, Dr. Sharonica Hardin-Bartley, Superintendent of The School District of University City. During our conversation, we talked about storytelling, heroism, equity, and vulnerable leadership. I am grateful for Sharonica's willingness to be genuine and present. There is so much learning in this episode - for any leader in any industry! BIO: Dr. Sharonica Hardin-Bartley "an outspoken advocate for racial equity, traumatic-informed practices and student voice in education. Before becoming a the University City's Superintendent, she was the assistant superintendent for human resources and leadership development fo...
2022-10-1135 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastThe Art and Science of Hiring Teachers - Dr. Kevin CarlThis week, I am get to visit with Dr. Kevin Carl, Superintendent of Hancock Place, a school district outside of St. Louis. Kevin talks about his first job at a batting cage. He gives his thoughts on the term an imperfect leader. He talks about learning how to be a little less impulsive when pursuing innovations. And he talks about the art and science of hiring teachers. BIO: Kevin has served as superintendent for 12 years and is known across the state of Missouri as a thoughtful, open, and forthright leader. So, it was no great s...
2022-10-0441 minAn Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastPrincipals, Principles, and Continuous Improvement - Dr. Demond MeansThis week, I am thrilled to visit with a tremendous leader, Dr. Demond Means, Superintendent of the Wauwatosa School District, a school district just outside of Milwaukee. During our conversation, an incredibly vulnerable reflection by Dr. Means included a decision he made early in his career as a central office leader. He skipped over principals and went directly to teachers during their continuous learning process. I've done something similar. I remember being a new assistant superintendent and going to a family's kitchen table to problem solve issues their child was having at school. It was...
2022-09-2738 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastDon't Just Do Something, Stand There! Dr. Chris Gaines Talks about Non-Renewing a TeacherIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action, Dr. Chris Gaines is my guest. Chris will describe the difficult decision to non-renew a teacher as his After-Action Review. He will talk about the role of timing as a big factor in making a decision (and how he lost a bond election as a result of overlooking it). Additionally, he will give advice to aspiring leaders and leaders new to their positions. Oh! You're going to hear Chris mention my presence on Twitter. What I said to him was that most of my f...
2022-09-2039 min
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership PodcastJeanice Swift - Introducing New Programs and Phasing in Major ChangeIn this episode of An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action, Dr. Jeanice Swift is my guest. Jeanice will describe introducing a program as her After-Action Review. She will talk about phasing in major changes and being ok with delays. She will reference the room of adjacent possibilities and how "we make the path by walking it together." She will remind us to think about all the people impacted by decisions, not just some. BIO: For more than thirty years, Dr. Jeanice Swift has been a classroom teacher, a teacher coach, a principal, and school...
2022-09-1336 min