Leaning into Leadership

One of the most common mistakes schools make is confusing a resource with a curriculum.A textbook gets adopted. A program is purchased. A shiny new initiative is rolled out.And suddenly everyone says, “Great… we have a curriculum.”But that’s not curriculum.In this episode, Darrin sits down with Emily Makelky from the Curriculum Leadership Institute (CLI) to unpack what curriculum actually means and why empowering teachers to lead curriculum development can transform how schools serve students.Drawing on years of classroom experience and consulting with districts across the country, Emily shares how leaders can move beyond resource adoption and build sustainable curriculum systems that reflect their community, their teachers, and their students.The conversation also explores how leadership teams can prioritize curriculum work, avoid overwhelming teachers, and create structures that support long-term improvement.If you’ve ever wrestled with questions like “What should we really be teaching?” or “How do we align instruction across classrooms?” this episode offers practical insight for school and district leaders.In This EpisodeWhy a textbook is not a curriculumThe difference between resources and true curriculum alignmentHow schools can build local curriculum that reflects their communityWhy teacher voice and teacher leadership are essential in curriculum developmentHow leaders can create systems and routines that support curriculum workWhy going slow to go fast matters when implementing curriculum changesHow districts can create a long-range plan for curriculum developmentAbout Emily MakelkyJust like when she was in the classroom, Emily loves it when the “lightbulb” comes on for teachers.Combining her teaching experience with a foundation in business management, Emily now works as a consultant with the Curriculum Leadership Institute, helping schools and districts take a systematic approach to curriculum development and alignment.Emily’s work focuses on helping educators clarify what should be taught, align instruction and assessment, and empower teachers to lead meaningful curriculum work within their schools.Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeCurriculum Leadership Institutehttps://www.cliweb.orgFree tools and resources (including the Long Range Plan template)https://www.cliweb.org/toolsandinspirationFree Long Range Planning Sessionhttps://calendly.com/d/3sk-z55-pg2/develop-your-long-range-planConnect with DarrinIf this episode resonated with you and you're looking for support in developing stronger leadership teams, clearer systems, and healthier school cultures, connect with Darrin.Website: https://darrinpeppard.com/Thank you to our Amazing SponsorsThis episode is sponored by DigiCoach, helping leaders capture real-time instructional data, provide meaningful feedback, and build clarity through strong systems. Go to digicoach.com and tell them you heard about them here on the Leaning into Leadership podcast for special partner pricing.This episode is also brought to you by HeyTutor, delivering high-impact, research-based tutoring that supports students while reducing leadership overwhelm. Connect with them at HeyTutor.com

This is Part 3 of a three-part series on leadership presence.In Episode 262, we explored the hidden cost of distraction and how trust and psychological safety erode when leaders aren’t fully present.In Episode 263, we discussed how to engineer margin through calendar integrity, decision discipline, and clarity around your top priorities.Now we bring it home.Because presence isn’t performance.Presence is connection.In this episode, Darrin dives into the relational and interpersonal work that makes leadership presence genuine — not polished, not performative, but real.You’ll learn:Why presence is more than eye contact and good postureThe three foundations of genuine presence:AttentionCuriosityEmotional regulationWhy you cannot fake nervous system safetyThe danger of listening to fix instead of listening to understandFour practical signals of authentic presence you can use immediatelyWhy follow-up is one of the most powerful leadership moves you can makeDarrin also shares a story from his superintendent experience that highlights the difference between listening to correct and listening to comprehend.Reflection Question: Where do you need to replace fixing with listening?Thank you to our Amazing SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by HeyTutor, delivering high-impact, research-based tutoring that supports students while reducing leadership overwhelm. Connect with them at HeyTutor.comThis episode is also sponored by DigiCoach, helping leaders capture real-time instructional data, provide meaningful feedback, and build clarity through strong systems. Go to digicoach.com and tell them you heard about them here on the Leaning into Leadership podcast for special partner pricing.

In Episode 262, we explored the hidden cost of distraction and how trust, psychological safety, and connection erode when leaders aren’t fully present. This is Part 2 of our three-part series on leadership presence.In this episode, Darrin focuses on why distraction keeps happening — and how to intentionally break through the cycle of overwhelm.Chaos isn’t loud.It’s cumulative.It’s the stacking of interruptions, back-to-back meetings, unresolved conversations, decision fatigue, and carrying problems that aren’t yours to carry. When leaders operate in survival mode, presence becomes nearly impossible.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why overwhelm — not incompetence — is the real issueThe difference between chaos being loud vs. cumulativeHow to engineer margin into your leadershipThe importance of calendar integrityWhy decision discipline protects your leadership capacityHow to clarify your Top Three priorities each weekHow to use a simple 15-Minute Weekly Presence AuditPlus, Darrin shares a free resource:📥 The School Leaders Weekly Planner — a tool designed to help you schedule your priorities, build margin, and protect your presence. Download the free planner using the link here.Reflection Question:What on your calendar right now is stealing margin from the moments that matter most?Find one thing. Change one thing. Break the chaos. Build the margin. Protect the moments.Next up in Episode 264: The interpersonal work that makes leadership presence genuine and authentic.Thank you to our Amazing SponsorsThis episode is sponored by DigiCoach, helping leaders capture real-time instructional data, provide meaningful feedback, and build clarity through strong systems. Go to digicoach.com and tell them you heard about them here on the Leaning into Leadership podcast for special partner pricing.This episode is also brought to you by HeyTutor, delivering high-impact, research-based tutoring that supports students while reducing leadership overwhelm. Connect with them at HeyTutor.com

This episode kicks off a powerful three-part series on leadership presence.In Part 1, Darrin explores the hidden cost of distraction and how leaders unintentionally erode trust, psychological safety, and emotional connection when they are not fully present.Through personal stories from his time as a high school principal, Darrin shares moments of realization when distraction cost him relational depth — and what those experiences taught him about culture and leadership.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why presence is not “soft” — it’s culture workThe three things that erode when leaders aren’t fully presentThe difference between productivity and true leadership impactWhy leadership is about stabilizing people, not just solving problemsA simple 60-Second Reset you can use before your next important conversationReflection Question:Where this week does someone need the fully present version of you?This episode sets the foundation for Part 2, where we’ll explore how to intentionally create margin and break the patterns that keep leaders stuck in distraction.Thank you to our Amazing SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by HeyTutor, delivering high-impact, research-based tutoring that supports students while reducing leadership overwhelm. Connect with them at HeyTutor.comThis episode is also sponored by DigiCoach, helping leaders capture real-time instructional data, provide meaningful feedback, and build clarity through strong systems. Go to https://www.digicoach.com/ and tell them you heard about them here on the Leaning into Leadership podcast for special partner pricing.

In Episode 261, I’m coming to you on location from Edmond, Oklahoma, where I had the opportunity to sit down with my friend Joe Beckman at the OASSP conference.Joe has spent more than 20 years traveling the world with one simple mission: reclaim human connection.And if we’re honest, that mission has never been more urgent. Loneliness is at an all-time high. Belonging and self-worth feel fragile. Technology is louder than conversation. So what does that mean for school leaders?In this conversation, Joe challenges us to rethink where connection lives on our priority list. It’s not one more thing on the plate.It is the plate.We talk about:Why connection must be the foundation of leadershipThe powerful “Chinette plate” analogy and what it means for cultureHow storytelling builds trust and opens students’ mindsWhy vulnerability accelerates connection in classroomsThe Big Tobacco → Big Tech comparison and what leaders must understandHow adults must model healthy tech boundariesWhy conferences and networks matter in fighting leadership isolationThe courage required to lean into difficult conversationsJoe also shares how he is personally leaning into leadership right now by stepping into uncomfortable spaces and using his voice where it matters most.If you care about culture…If you care about your people… If you care about leading well in a distracted world…This episode is for you.Connect with Joe: www.joebeckman.comThank you to our Amazing SponsorsThis episode is sponored by DigiCoach, helping leaders capture real-time instructional data, provide meaningful feedback, and build clarity through strong systems. Go to https://www.digicoach.com/ and tell them you heard about them here on the Leaning into Leadership podcast for special partner pricing.This episode is also brought to you by HeyTutor, delivering high-impact, research-based tutoring that supports students while reducing leadership overwhelm. Connect with them at HeyTutor.com

In this episode of Leaning Into Leadership, I’m joined by George Couros, one of the most influential voices in education around innovation, culture, and human-centered leadership.George and I dig into his leadership journey — not from a place of “having it all figured out,” but from a place of learning out loud. We talk about how blogging helped him find his voice, not just share it, and why writing, reflection, and vulnerability matter more than ever for leaders.We also explore the ideas behind George’s newest book, Forward Together: Moving Schools from Conflict to Community in Contentious Times, including:Why trying to “win” arguments often pushes people further awayThe reality that somebody hates you — and why that shouldn’t drive your leadershipThe balance between comfort and challenge in professional learning (the “warm bath / cold shower”)How leaders can move communities forward during polarized, emotionally charged timesWe close with a powerful reflection on leadership and self-care, as George shares how prioritizing his health has changed not only how he leads — but how he models leadership for his own kids.This is an honest, thoughtful, and deeply human conversation about what leadership really looks like right now.You can learn more about George at his websiteGrab his new book on AmazonHere is the link to the blogpost I referenced in the showThank you to our Amazing SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by HeyTutor, delivering high-impact, research-based tutoring that supports students while reducing leadership overwhelm. Connect with them at HeyTutor.comThis episode is also sponored by DigiCoach, helping leaders capture real-time instructional data, provide meaningful feedback, and build clarity through strong systems. Go to https://www.digicoach.com/ and tell them you heard about them here on the Leaning into Leadership podcast for special partner pricing.

Ever left a leadership team meeting feeling like it was so productive—then realized a week later nothing really changed?In this solo episode, Darrin unpacks why that gap between effort and impact is rarely about commitment—and almost always about clarity. Building on his “Cycle of Chaos” episode, he shares the ALIGN Framework, a practical system for strengthening team dynamics and keeping teams focused on what matters most.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why strong teams drift into reactivity when clarity is missingHow alignment breaks the Cycle of Chaos—not just “working harder”The ALIGN Framework for healthier team dynamics:A — Agree on the Vision and Goals: Ensure everyone can name the top priorities in the same languageL — Language and Communication: Teams don’t just make decisions—they carry the messageI — Intentional Role Clarity: Clear ownership prevents duplication, avoidance, and frustrationG — Growth Through Cross-Training: Build continuity and empathy without eroding rolesN — Navigate with Intention: Protect focus, pause before adding initiatives, and stay anchored to prioritiesReflection questions to take back to your team:If I asked each team member privately, would they name the same top three priorities?Are we clear on what gets communicated, who communicates it, and how it’s framed?Where might I be stepping in that’s keeping someone else from stepping up?Are we moving the goal forward—or just filling the calendar?Support for leaders and teamsIf you’re thinking, “This sounds like my team, but we’re struggling to get there,” Darrin invites you to reach out for coaching, team support, or a leadership team alignment retreat designed to reset vision, roles, and priorities.Connect with Darrin: darrinpeppard.com | roadtoawesome.net | @darrinmpeppardThank you to our Amazing SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by HeyTutor, delivering high-impact, research-based tutoring that supports students while reducing leadership overwhelm. Connect with them at HeyTutor.comThis episode is also sponored by DigiCoach, helping leaders capture real-time instructional data, provide meaningful feedback, and build clarity through strong systems. Go to https://www.digicoach.com/ and tell them you heard about them here on the Leaning into Leadership podcast for special partner pricing.

Weston Kieschnick has been in the work for a long time—as a classroom teacher, coach, author, and speaker—and this conversation feels like two colleagues reconnecting around what actually drives performance.We dig into Weston’s newest work and the idea that the gap between high performers and underachievers usually isn’t talent. It’s behavior—especially in the moments when adversity hits.In this episode, we explore:Why “hidden work” is the difference-maker when no one is watchingThe four performance pitfalls that derail people at every level:BlameExcusesSelf-deceptionGiving upThe flips that top performers lean into instead:OwnershipSolutionsTruthGritA Shark Tank green-room story with Barbara Corcoran that perfectly frames ownership vs. blameWhy feedback is the raw material for performance—and how self-deception blocks growthWeston’s take on “growability” and why self-awareness matters more than skill levelHow Weston is leaning into leadership right now: staying a learner, and learning from great leaders in every spaceKey takeawayWhen life gets hard, your default matters. You don’t rise to the level of your goals—you fall to the level of your patterns. This episode is a gut-check and a playbook.Connect with WestonFind Weston at WestonKieschnick.com and connect with him on social media to follow his work (and his “10-second truth” videos).Thank you to our Amazing SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by HeyTutor, delivering high-impact, research-based tutoring that supports students while reducing leadership overwhelm. Connect with them at: https://heytutor.com/?utm_source=RTA&utm_medium=RTA&utm_campaign=RTAThis episode is also sponored by DigiCoach, helping leaders capture real-time instructional data, provide meaningful feedback, and build clarity through strong systems. Go to https://www.digicoach.com/ and tell them you heard about them here on the Leaning into Leadership podcast for special partner pricing.

Leadership doesn’t fall apart overnight. More often, it slowly drifts into a pattern that feels overwhelming, exhausting, and reactive.In this solo episode, Darrin introduces The Cycle of Chaos—a framework that helps leaders name what they’re experiencing and begin interrupting the patterns that keep them stuck in survival mode.Rather than offering quick fixes or productivity hacks, this episode invites reflection, clarity, and intentional leadership.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Why feeling busy doesn’t always mean you’re being effectiveHow constant reactivity increases cognitive load and erodes clarityThe five stages of the Cycle of Chaos:Constant ReactivityHigh Cognitive LoadAbsence of ClarityOverextensionSurvival Mode LeadershipWhy leaders stay stuck in the cycle—and why it’s not a failureHow clarity becomes the starting point for real changeThis conversation is a reminder that leaders don’t need to work harder—they need to lead clearer.SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by HeyTutor, delivering high-impact, research-based tutoring that supports students while reducing leadership overwhelm.Additional support comes from DigiCoach, helping leaders capture real-time instructional data, provide meaningful feedback, and build clarity through strong systems.

School leaders everywhere are wrestling with the same challenge:How do we support students who are behind — without overwhelming teachers or relying on systems that don’t deliver results?In this episode of Leaning Into Leadership, Darrin Peppard sits down with Jennifer Sheffield, CEO of HeyTutor, for a grounded, practical conversation about what effective tutoring and intervention really look like in today’s schools.Jennifer brings a unique leadership lens — blending her background in law, governance, and education — to help leaders rethink how tutoring fits into MTSS, Tier 2 and Tier 3 supports, and daily school operations.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Why “tutoring” means very different things — and what defines high-impact tutoringThe biggest barriers schools face when implementing interventionsHow districts can address the human capital challenge without adding strain to teachersCreative push-in and pull-out models that work in middle and high schoolsWhy relationships and student champions matter as much as curriculumHow tutoring can become a pipeline for future educatorsWhat it means to lead with purpose, trust, and whole-person leadershipJennifer also shares a powerful personal story that shapes her leadership philosophy — reminding us that great leadership is ultimately about people, belief, and opportunity.Learn more:HeyTutor: https://www.heytutor.comContact Jennifer directly: jennifer@heytutor.comIf you’re a school or district leader searching for intervention strategies that actually move the needle — this conversation will help you think differently.Episode Sponsors:This episode is sponsored by digiCOACH — an easy-to-use mobile platform that empowers school leaders to provide teachers with positive, actionable feedback tied to research-based instructional practices, with real-time data to support fidelity and instructional decision-making.Learn more at digicoach.com (mention the show for special partner pricing)This episode is also brought to you by HeyTutor - HeyTutor delivers customized, evidence-based, high-dosage Math and ELA tutoring to K–12 school districts nationwide. Their focus is on in-person tutoring, while also offering flexible online options — all tailored to meet diverse student needs and aligned with state standards.Head over to HeyTutor.com to learn more - tell them you heard about them on the Leaning into Leadership podcast.

In this special shared episode, Darrin Peppard and Dr. Frederick Buskey—host of The Assistant Principal Podcast—tackle a challenge leaders are facing more and more often: angry, escalated parent interactions.This conversation was sparked by a real question from the field—a leader Frederick supports reached out looking for guidance on how to handle parents when emotions are high. Together, Darrin and Frederick unpack a practical, grounded framework for what to do before, during, and after conflict shows up at your door.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why the best time to prevent angry parent blowups is before anything goes wrongHow leaders build “relationship capital” through proactive, positive contactWhy it matters to separate the student from the behavior (and how that changes everything)The value of student-written statements for clarity, due process, and aligned factsHow to make the parent call in a way that reduces defensiveness and keeps everyone groundedWhat to do when a parent escalates—and why listening is your strongest toolA powerful reminder: parents don’t always react to what happened—they react to feeling disrespectedThe bottom-line takeaway: It’s not about you—and remembering that makes it easier to listenKey takeawayWhen conflict rises, your job isn’t to “win” the conversation—it’s to protect dignity, stay calm, listen deeply, and build partnership forward.Episode Sponsors:This episode is brought to you by HeyTutor - HeyTutor delivers customized, evidence-based, high-dosage Math and ELA tutoring to K–12 school districts nationwide. Their focus is on in-person tutoring, while also offering flexible online options — all tailored to meet diverse student needs and aligned with state standards.Head over to HeyTutor.com to learn more - tell them you heard about them on the Leaning into Leadership podcast.This episode is also sponsored by digiCOACH — an easy-to-use mobile platform that empowers school leaders to provide teachers with positive, actionable feedback tied to research-based instructional practices, with real-time data to support fidelity and instructional decision-making.Learn more at digicoach.com (mention the show for special partner pricing)

What does it mean to be a dealer in hope — not as the source of hope, but as someone who helps others discover it for themselves?In this first episode of 2026, Darrin sits down with longtime friend and colleague Dr. Mark Brown for a powerful conversation about leadership, hope, and intentional presence. Mark shares the story behind his “Hope Dealer” philosophy, why hope is for everyone (not just those in crisis), and how leaders can create cultures where people feel seen, supported, and empowered.As a first-year high school principal, Mark also reflects on the transition from assistant principal to principal, the importance of asking for help, and how modeling leadership behaviors matters more than any directive. The conversation closes with a reminder many leaders need to hear: taking care of yourself is not selfish — it’s essential.In this episode, you’ll hear about:What it really means to be a “Hope Dealer”Why leaders shouldn’t try to be the source of hope for othersLessons from Mark’s transition into the principalshipEmpowering others by asking for input — even when you don’t need itModeling leadership through presence, attitude, and behaviorWhy self-care is a leadership responsibility, not a luxuryConnect with Dr. Mark Brown:Instagram: @heymarkbrownWebsite: www.markbrownedu.comBook: Hope Dealer: Leaning In to Lift OthersThis episode is sponsored by digiCOACH — an easy-to-use mobile platform that empowers school leaders to provide teachers with positive, actionable feedback tied to research-based instructional practices, with real-time data to support fidelity and instructional decision-making.Learn more at digicoach.com (mention the show for partner pricing)This episode is also brought to you by HeyTutor - HeyTutor delivers customized, evidence-based, high-dosage Math and ELA tutoring to K–12 school districts nationwide. Their focus is on in-person tutoring, while also offering flexible online options — all tailored to meet diverse student needs and aligned with state standards.Head over to HeyTutor.com to learn more - tell them you heard about them on the Leaning into Leadership podcast.

As 2025 comes to a close, Dr. Darrin Peppard reflects on the year that was and what the work of leadership is asking of us as we head into 2026. In this year-end solo episode, Darrin invites both individual leaders and leadership teams to pause, reflect, and resist the urge to rush into the new year without clarity.Drawing from his work with leadership teams across the country, Darrin shares the key trends he’s seeing shape leadership in the year ahead—including the growing need for clarity, the non-negotiable role of culture, and the shift from compliance-driven leadership to coaching-focused practice.Darrin also reflects on his personal one-word theme for 2025 (Evolve) and looks ahead to 2026 with a renewed commitment to leading fiercely—with clear priorities, strong boundaries, and intentional focus. This episode is designed to be listened to individually or together as a leadership team, offering space for reflection, alignment, and forward momentum.This episode is sponsored by digiCOACH — an easy-to-use mobile platform that empowers school leaders to provide teachers with positive, actionable feedback tied to research-based instructional practices, with real-time data to support fidelity and instructional decision-making.Learn more at digicoach.com (mention the show for partner pricing)In This EpisodeWhy pausing to reflect matters before stepping into the new yearThe leadership trends shaping 2026The importance of clarity for leaders and leadership teamsWhy culture must remain a top priorityThe shift from compliance to coaching in effective leadershipOne-word reflection: Evolve (2025) and Fierce (2026)Connect & Continue the ConversationTo stay connected and receive reflective leadership insights in 2026, visit roadtoawesome.net and sign up for the newsletter. Go to darrinpeppard.com to learn more about Darrin's speaking, leadership workshops, and retreats.If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe to the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share it with other leaders or leadership teams who may benefit from this conversation.

This episode is sponsored by DigiCoach. Make walkthroughs meaningful. Simplify your coaching culture. Visit digiCOACH.com and mention Darrin for special partner pricing.In Episode 252 of Leaning Into Leadership, Darrin Peppard sits down with Scott Borba, superintendent–principal in California’s Central Valley and author of The Leader You’re Not. Together, they explore leadership identity, the cost of perfectionism, imposter syndrome, delegation, boundaries, and why sustainable leadership begins with self-awareness.This is a candid, reflective conversation for leaders at any stage — especially those feeling the weight of trying to do it all.Key Topics & TakeawaysWhy early-career leaders often fall into the “superhero” trapThe unique challenges of serving as both superintendent and principalHow COVID forced many leaders to confront identity, confidence, and callingThe importance of trusted mentors and leadership networksWhy perfectionism quietly fuels burnout and imposter syndromeHow delegation and asking better questions build leadership capacityThe cost of saying “yes” — and why boundaries are not selfishWhy leaders must stop comparing themselves to “Facebook leadership”The freedom that comes from knowing who you’re not as a leaderWhy legacy matters most at home — where leaders are not replaceableMemorable Moments“Trying to be the perfect leader kept me from growing.”“Every yes comes with a cost.”“You’re not replaceable at home — and that matters.”“Delegation isn’t weakness; it’s leadership.”About the Guest: Scott BorbaScott Borba is a superintendent–principal serving a small, rural school district in California’s Central Valley. With over 20 years in school leadership, Scott is deeply committed to relational leadership, mentorship, and sustainability in the profession.He is the author of The Leader You’re Not: Why It’s Just as Important as the Leader You Are, a reflective exploration of leadership identity, self-awareness, and letting go of unrealistic expectations. Scott also teaches in a university administrator preparation program and leads a countywide leadership network focused on connection, growth, and reducing burnout.Resources & Links📘 The Leader You’re Not by Scott Borba📩 Connect with Scott Borba ( sborba52@gmail.com)Final ThoughtLeadership isn’t about being everything to everyone.It’s about knowing yourself well enough to lead with clarity, humility, and purpose.

This episode is sponsored by DigiCoach. Make walkthroughs meaningful. Simplify your coaching culture. Visit digiCOACH.com and mention Darrin for special partner pricing.In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Darrin sits down with longtime friend and colleague Dr. Danny Steele to explore what it truly means to lead with heart, clarity, and purpose. Danny reflects on his 31-year career in education, the mentors who shaped him, the mistakes that taught him, and the passion that continues to fuel his work supporting educators today.Together, they dig into:Danny’s early leadership missteps and the moment he realized his job was to serve teachers first.The concept of “passion drift”—why educators lose their edge and how leaders can help them get it back.Why administrators must redefine their light bulb moments to sustain joy and impact.The insecurities that quietly derail leadership—and how vulnerability becomes the antidote.How to lead instructional improvement without being an expert in every subject area.Key ideas from Danny’s brand-new book, The Instructional Leader in You: 10 Strategies for Every School Leader, including why curiosity must come first and why leaders must prioritize learning over teaching.Practical, reflective questions every leader can ask themselves to grow in 2025 and beyond.This episode is a masterclass in humility, clarity, and the power of leading from a place of authenticity. Whether you're a principal, assistant principal, district leader, or teacher-leader, this conversation will leave you challenged and inspired.Links & ResourcesDanny’s Website: SteeleThoughts.comDanny on Social Media: @SteeleThoughtsEmail Danny: danny@steelethoughts.comGet Danny’s New Book: The Instructional Leader in You

This episode is sponsored by DigiCoachMake walkthroughs meaningful. Simplify your coaching culture. Visit digiCOACH.com and mention Darrin for special partner pricing.For this milestone episode, the script gets flipped. Longtime friends and frequent guests Todd Bloomer and Dominic Armano take over the show and interview host Dr. Darrin Peppard about the lessons he’s learned from 250 episodes and a lifetime in school leadership.They dig into leadership clarity, time management, burnout, support systems, and why relationships will always matter more than perfect paperwork. You’ll hear practical advice for current principals, assistant principals, and aspiring leaders who are wondering, “Am I in the right seat?” or “Am I ready for the next step?”In this episode, we explore:Reaching 250 episodesWhat Darrin has learned from starting the podcast in 2022 and pushing past the “most podcasts die by episode 10” barrier.How consistency, clarity, and curiosity have shaped the show.Coaching, walkthroughs, and making feedback part of the jobWhy leaders must get crystal clear on what they care about and what they’re looking for in every classroom.How to shift from “gotcha” feedback to curious, growth-focused conversations with teachers.For principals who haven’t been in classrooms enoughUsing the Eisenhower Matrix to separate what’s truly important from what just feels urgent.A simple exercise with sticky notes to analyze where your time really went this semester.How to build systems and delegation so you can focus on instruction and culture.Support systems & avoiding burnout as a leaderThe critical role of a great secretary/admin assistant in protecting your time and priorities.Why every leader needs people outside their building—coaches, mentors, colleagues—to call when things get heavy.The power of a trusted circle at home and how podcasts can be “free PD” that keeps you growing.For assistant principals who are struggling or ready for moreWhat to do when you’re coming home thinking, “Did I make a mistake?”Reflective questions Darrin uses with leaders:What have you learned about yourself as a leader?What’s actually going well (even if it doesn’t feel like it)?How to think about your trajectory if you’re ready for the next role.If Darrin could wave a magic wand…The one administrative task he’d eliminate: the bureaucracy of evaluation.What evaluation could look like if it was purely about coaching, growth, and support rather than compliance.Advice for new principals starting mid-yearWhy your first job isn’t to “fix” everything—it’s to build relationships and listen.How to learn the subculture of your new school community before making big moves.Seeing the rest of the year as your “learning runway” before truly leading in year one.The teacher Darrin would rather mentorGiven the choice, why he’ll always choose the relationship-rich but disorganized teacher over the hyper-organized teacher who struggles to connect with kids.How systems can be taught, but genuine connection with students is much harder to create from scratch.How Darrin is leaning into leadership right nowHis commitment to finding every possible avenue to pour into leaders—whether or not they hold a formal title.Helping leaders find clarity, act with intention, and walk in their purpose.For more visit darrinpeppard.com

This episode is sponsored by DigiCoachMake walkthroughs meaningful. Simplify your coaching culture. Visit digiCOACH.com and mention Darrin for special partner pricing.If you’ve followed high-level high school athletics—especially in Colorado—you’ve probably heard of Valor Christian High School. From state titles to nationally ranked teams, Valor has built a reputation for excellence. But what most people don’t see is the intentional culture, systems, and faith-driven leadership behind the wins.In this episode, Darrin sits down with Keith Wahl, longtime coach and now Athletic Director at Valor Christian, to talk about building a mission-centered athletic program in the middle of NIL, transfer portals, club sports pressure, and sky-high parent expectations.Keith shares how Valor has stayed anchored to its founding mission and culture documents, how they rebuilt systems after a difficult season, and why he believes sports don’t teach life lessons—people do.In this episode, you’ll hear:Keith’s journey into leadership at Valor ChristianFrom opening Mountain Vista High School as its first head baseball coach… to a “divine nudge” text from his wife… to becoming Valor’s first head baseball coach and eventually Athletic Director.From “pioneer” to nationally respected athletics programHow Valor went from a brand-new school with a bold Christian mission to a MaxPreps Top 50-level athletic department—without abandoning its original vision and purpose.Culture documents, team plans, and the power of clarityWhy written team plans and an athletic handbook became game changers for culture, communication, and peace—and what happened when those systems disappeared (and then had to be rebuilt).Leading in the NIL and transfer eraHow NIL, club sports, and transfer rules have reshaped high school athletics—and what leaders can do to stay mission-focused instead of becoming purely transactional.Youth sports pressure and parent expectationsWhy today’s parents often have less trust and higher expectations, and how schools can respond with value, transparency, and a holistic vision of sport.Faith, sport, and deeper meaning beyond the scoreboardKeith’s work with Baylor’s Faith & Sport Institute, their “Away Game” cohort, and what it looks like to build an athletic experience that forms character—not just winners.The trust triangle & the athletic leadership teamHow Keith uses the “trust triangle” (with authentic vulnerability at the base) to lead his internal team and create a second-family culture among his staff.Knowing your people: Enneagram, Working Genius & AIHow Keith uses tools like the Enneagram, Working Genius—and yes, even ChatGPT—to better understand his team and tailor his communication to each person.A powerful tribute to Coach Janie McHughThe story of longtime Valor volleyball coach Janie McHugh, her fourth straight state title, and why Keith believes deeply that knowing your people is one of the greatest gifts of leadership.Connect with Keith WahlValor Athletics: valoreagles.comSocial: @CoachWahl22 on all major platforms

This episode is sponsored by DigiCoachMake walkthroughs meaningful. Simplify your coaching culture. Visit digiCOACH.com and mention Darrin for special partner pricing.In this inspiring episode, NAESP President April D. Knight joins Darrin to explore what leadership looks like when it stays grounded in relationships, service, and intentional support for school leaders. April shares the story of her 34-year career, her leadership journey through Columbus City Schools, and how her deep commitment to equity and connection led her to the NAESP presidency.Together, they dig into three major initiatives shaping NAESP’s future:The groundbreaking NAESP–AMLE partnership, focused on elevating support for middle-level leaders.The National School Leaders Conference, including new strands for early childhood, middle school, and secondary success.The National Gold Star School Program, NAESP’s bold new recognition initiative honoring schools for culture, systems, and people—not just test scores.April also shares timeless advice for early career principals, discusses the evolving nature of school leadership, and reflects on what it means to “lean into leadership” during times of change.Key Topics CoveredApril Knight’s leadership journey from classroom teacher to NAESP PresidentThe importance of relationships and trust-building in early leadershipHow NAESP is expanding support for middle-level leadersBehind the scenes of the new NAESP–AMLE partnershipWhat leaders can expect from the 2025 National School Leaders Conference in OrlandoDetails and criteria for NAESP’s new National Gold Star School ProgramAdvice for aspiring and first-year administratorsHow April is “leaning into leadership” right nowAbout Today’s Guest – April D. KnightWith 34 years in education and over two decades as a principal, April Knight is a nationally respected advocate for students, teachers, and school leaders. She serves as the 2025–2026 President of NAESP and leads Avondale Elementary in Columbus City Schools, Ohio’s largest district. Her work focuses on academic excellence, equity, mentoring future school leaders, and advancing the principalship nationwide.Links & Resources MentionedNAESP Website: https://www.naesp.orgNational School Leaders Conference Information & Proposal SubmissionNational Gold Star School Program (application open through Jan. 31)AMLE Website: https://www.amle.orgConnect with April:Email: aknight@naesp.orgX (Twitter): @AKnightApril

Sponsor Spotlight: digiCOACHSupport for today’s episode comes from digiCOACH — the walkthrough and coaching platform designed to simplify data collection, strengthen feedback, and improve instructional clarity. Visit digiCOACH.com, mention Darrin sent you, and ask about special partner pricing.In Episode 247 of the Leaning Into Leadership podcast, Darrin welcomes back repeat guest Dr. Christopher J. Jochum, founder and CEO of CJ Leadership Solutions, LLC, Professor and Chair of Teacher Education at Fort Hays State University, and a nationally recognized speaker, trainer, coach, and author.The episode opens with a reflection on the “tap on the shoulder” moment many leaders experience — the first time someone sees leadership potential in them. Darrin connects this to research showing that 95% of students and 90% of teachers equate leadership with a title, highlighting why the work of developing teacher leaders is so critical.Chris and Darrin explore the unique intersection of K–12 and higher education, including what Chris has learned as he transitioned into leading one of the largest teacher preparation programs in the country. He highlights the people, the culture, and the innovative mindset that make Fort Hays State a standout institution at a time when many university teacher prep programs are shrinking.The conversation then pivots to Chris’s new book, You Don’t Have to Leave to Lead: A Practical Guide to Teacher Leadership — a culmination of years of teaching, research, and on-the-ground leadership development. They unpack key themes from the book, including:🔥 Conversation HighlightsLeadership is about influence, not titles — and why this mindset shift is crucial for teachers.Why teacher leadership is NOT “one more thing” but rather strengthens a teacher’s core practice.The five major goals of teacher leadership and why they matter for school and district leaders.The connection between teacher leadership and student outcomes — and how raising the “leadership lid” (Maxwell) elevates entire campuses.How teacher leadership can extend careers, support retention, and create meaningful growth pathways.The “field of diamonds” metaphor and why leaders must look to the talent already in their building.Chris finishes by sharing how he is currently leaning into leadership — continuing to challenge himself, sharpen the saw, and prepare to write his next leadership book aimed at a broader audience.About Dr. Chris Jochum Dr. Christopher J. Jochum is the founder and CEO of CJ Leadership Solutions, LLC. A sought-after speaker, trainer, and coach, Chris partners with organizations throughout the U.S. and abroad to transform culture by developing leadership capacity at every level. He believes that leadership is about influence, not formal authority.Chris also serves as Professor and Chair of the Department of Teacher Education at Fort Hays State University, leading one of the nation’s largest teacher preparation programs. With nearly 30 years in K–12 and higher education, Chris began his career teaching Spanish and English as a Second Language before holding faculty appointments at the University of Central Missouri and the University of Nebraska at Kearney.His research focuses on leadership development in both K–12 and higher ed, along with the value of study abroad. He hosts The Department Chair Leadership Podcast and is also the author of The Department Chair: A Practical Guide to Effective Leadership.Connect with Dr. Chris Jochum🌐 Website: CJLeadership.com📧 Email: chris@cjleadership.com🎙️ Podcast: The Department Chair Leadership Podcast📘 Books: You Don’t Have to Leave to Lead and The Department Chair (Road to Awesome Publishing)Dr. Jochum's previous appearance on Leaning into Leadership

Sponsor Spotlight: digiCOACHSupport for today’s episode comes from digiCOACH — the walkthrough and coaching platform designed to simplify data collection, strengthen feedback, and improve instructional clarity. Visit digiCOACH.com, mention Darrin sent you, and ask about special partner pricing.In this solo episode of the Leaning Into Leadership podcast, Dr. Darrin Peppard takes leaders deep into one of the most important—and most avoided—responsibilities of leadership: crucial conversations.Darrin shares a vulnerable story from early in his principalship and unpacks the powerful lesson he learned about how silence, avoidance, and hesitation can erode culture, damage trust, and create uncertainty. From there, he introduces a clear, actionable, eight-step framework rooted in the work of Patterson, Grenny, McMillan, and Switzler’s Crucial Conversations, adapted for leaders in every sector.Listeners will learn how to:Center themselves before delivering hard messagesRemove assumptions and stay grounded in factsCreate psychological safetyDescribe performance gaps clearly and respectfullyInvite honest dialogueCollaboratively build solutionsReinforce alignment through clear commitmentsSustain accountability through effective follow-upDarrin then applies the framework to three real-world leadership scenarios—from education, construction, and healthcare—providing detailed sample dialogue and leadership moves leaders can use immediately.Whether you’re leading a school, a team, a department, or an organization, this episode will equip you with the clarity, confidence, and courage to navigate the tough moments that shape culture.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why tough conversations define leadership effectivenessWhat makes a conversation “crucial”The 8-step Crucial Conversations Leadership FrameworkHow to avoid assumptions and approach conversations with purposeHow to balance accountability with empathyHow leaders across industries can apply these steps (with detailed examples)Three Real-World Scenarios Covered:Education — Staff not following safety protocolsConstruction — Crew leader disrespecting team membersHealthcare — Nurse omitting required patient handoff detailsThese examples model exactly what effective leadership conversations sound like.Episode Resources:The AWESOME Leadership Action GuideLeadership keynote information go to https://darrinpeppard.comConnect with Darrin on LinkedIn, Instagram, and social platforms