Leaning into Leadership

Leadership starts with self-awareness—but most assessments only tell part of the story. In this episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard sits down with David Kolbe, CEO of Kolbe Corp, to explore the conative side of the human mind—the part that drives how we take action.David explains the difference between thinking, feeling, and doing, and how the Kolbe A™ Index reveals your natural patterns for solving problems and taking initiative. Together, Darrin and David discuss:The four Action Modes—Fact Finder, Follow Through, Quick Start, and Implementer—and what each reveals about how you get things doneWhy diverse conative strengths make teams more effectiveHow understanding these instincts improves hiring and collaborationDarrin’s own Kolbe A™ results (4-4-7-4) and what they say about his leadership styleThe connection between conation, culture, and AI in modern organizationsWhether you’re leading a school district, a company, or a small team, this conversation will help you leverage what comes naturally—so you can do more, more naturally.Connect with David Kolbe & Kolbe Corp:🔗 Website – Kolbe.com🔗 Learn More – Do More, More Naturally💼 LinkedIn – David Kolbe | Kolbe Corp LinkedIn📱 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter/XConnect with Dr. Darrin Peppard:🌐 Road to Awesome | LinkedIn🎙️ Subscribe to the Leaning Into Leadership Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Casey Watts—speaker, author, thought leader, and creator of the Clarity Cycle Framework. With over 20 years in education and a decade of coaching experience, Casey has helped countless leaders bridge gaps, foster commitment, and build sustainable alignment in their teams.We dig into the missing piece that derails so many leaders: clarity. From the dangers of jargon like “fidelity” and “rigor” to building shared ownership of definitions, Casey unpacks how leaders can eliminate “quiet chaos” and create cultures of transparency and trust. She walks us through the six habits of her Clarity Cycle Framework—determine focus, analyze, gain insight, cast vision, celebrate, and calibrate—and why clarity isn’t just about communication but about creating habits that stick.Along the way, Casey shares stories from her own leadership journey, the power of celebrating intentionally, and how redefining clarity can transform collaboration across schools and organizations.We wrap up with Casey’s vulnerable and inspiring reflection on her own growth as a leader—challenging the narratives we carry into our work.Connect with Casey:🔗 Website: catchingupwithcasey.com🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/catchupwithcasey🔗 Instagram: instagram.com/catchupwithcasey🔗 YouTube: youtube.com/@catchupwithcasey

In this week’s episode of Leaning Into Leadership, I sit down with Dr. Zac Bauermaster, an elementary principal in Lancaster County, PA, whose fist-bump videos with students recently went viral — one reaching over 382 million views on Instagram. But behind the headlines is a leader who has learned through personal challenges, family priorities, and a deep commitment to faith what it truly means to lead with people first.Zac shares openly about his journey through teaching, administration, and overcoming struggles with anxiety and overwork. He talks about shifting from chasing “work-life balance” to finding a “work-life rhythm,” building systems that align priorities with actions, and the importance of being intentional about presence both at school and at home.We also explore his writing, including his six-pillar “PEOPLE” framework for fruitful leadership: Prioritize, Empathize, Observe, Pray, Love, and Encourage. Along the way, Zac reminds us that small, consistent acts of encouragement can have lifelong impact.This is an inspiring and authentic conversation about leadership, culture, family, and faith — one that will encourage every leader to pause, reflect, and lean into what matters most.Connect with Dr. Zac BauermasterWebsite: ZacBauermaster.comInstagram, Facebook, X: @ZBauermasterBooks: Available on Amazon

In this episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard is joined by Dr. Kacy Shahid and Dr. Kevin Lein, members of NASSP’s Principal Recovery Network. They share their personal journeys through tragedy, the lessons they’ve learned, and the hope they bring to school leaders everywhere.Key ThemesLeading through crisis and recoveryThe role of empathy, vulnerability, and preparationHow the Principal Recovery Network supports school leadersThe Principal Recovery Network Guide and how it helps communities healWhy “heartening schools” is as important as hardening themPractical advice for leaders on rest, trust, and courageAbout the GuestsDr. Kacy Shahid transitioned from substitute teacher to principal in six years, eventually leading her alma mater, Central Visual and Performing Arts High School in St. Louis. After experiencing the tragedy of a school shooting in 2022, she found renewed purpose in advocacy and healing. She is the author of Know Your Place, Run Your Race and the 90-day journal HEARTWORK. She currently serves as a Strategic Advisor and Community Engagement Lead in Higher Education.📌 Connect: LinkedIn | Instagram/Twitter: @DrKacyShahid | Facebook: Kacy ShahidDr. Kevin Lein is an assistant professor at Wayne State College (NE) with over 35 years of experience in education as a teacher, coach, principal, and higher education leader. A survivor of a school shooting, Dr. Lein has become a leading advocate for personalized learning, system reform, and safe schools. He is a founding member of the Principal Recovery Network and a national voice for heart-centered leadership.

In this solo episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard dives into the leadership buzzwords we all hear — and probably use — without stopping to define. Words like collaboration, accountability, engagement, data-driven, and professional development can either sharpen our work or blur it entirely, depending on how leaders frame them.Darrin shares Webster’s definitions of 10 powerful words, explores how they’re often misused in both education and corporate spaces, and provides leadership takeaways for creating clarity.If you’ve ever told your team you want more “collaboration” or asked for “rigor” without explaining what that means, this episode is for you.Takeaways:Why words lose their power when they’re left undefined10 common buzzwords and what they should meanHow clarity in language creates clarity in actionWords are powerful — but only when leaders define them clearly.Timestamps Outline00:00–02:25 | Introduction, inspiration for the episode, why words matter02:25–04:45 | The danger of buzzwords without definition04:48–07:12 | Word #1: Collaboration07:12–09:34 | Word #2: Accountability09:34–12:02 | Word #3: Engagement12:02–15:41 | Word #4: Curriculum15:41–17:32 | Word #5: Rigor17:32–20:47 | Word #6: Fidelity20:47–23:19 | Word #7: Best Practices23:19–24:54 | Word #8: Data-Driven24:54–26:38 | Word #9: Expectations26:38–30:17 | Word #10: Professional Development30:17–End | Wrap-up, leadership challenge, and call to actionConnect with Darrin on social media @DarrinMPeppard on all platforms Website: www.roadtoawesome.netEmail: darrin@roadtoawesome.net

Dr. Darrin Peppard sits down with Dr. Jason Williamson—speaker, author, and creator of the Second Mile Mentality—to explore how leaders move beyond minimum expectations and build cultures where presence becomes proof. From a tiny Arkansas town to college athletics and the principal’s office, Jason’s journey shaped a practical framework for resilience, excellence, and intentional service.He unpacks the Second Mile philosophy (go above the job description), the PACE model (Purpose • Affirmation • Collaboration/Control • Engagement), and concrete strategies for modeling, celebrating growth, and handling resistance without taking it personally. If you’re an early-career AP/Principal or a veteran leader sharpening your edge, this episode delivers playbook-ready tactics.In this episode:Tech hiccups, persistence, and the leadership lesson of “find a way”From Ozan, AR (pop. 81) to college athletics: foundations of service-first leadershipSecond Mile leadership: presence → proof; kindness, eye contact, enthusiasmTurning customer-service training into school culture (the “my pleasure” mindset)Modeling what matters: visibility in halls, classrooms, and duty postsPACE core values in action:Put students firstFocus on learningSupport each otherCommit to growthEngage in the processDealing with disengagement and tough feedback without getting defensivePreparing assistant principals for the leap to the principal’s chairConnect with Dr. Jason WilliamsonWebsite & socials: IAmJasonWilliamson.com and @IAmJasonWilliamsonLinkedIn: JasonWilliamsonEDDLinktr.ee - Jason Williamson

In Episode 233 of the Leaning Into Leadership podcast, Dr. Darrin Peppard welcomes Brad Waid — award-winning Emerging Technology Leader, international keynote speaker, and global futurist. Brad shares insights from his forthcoming book Racing the Future: How Industry 4.0 Is Shaping the World of Work, Business, and Education.They explore the intersection of AI, Industry 4.0, and education — from classroom adoption and teacher hesitancy to corporate applications and future workforce demands. Brad explains how technology can enhance, not replace, our humanity, why soft skills remain critical, and how industries like automotive are re-skilling workers as automation grows.Listeners will learn about the five-step process Brad uses to help schools and organizations embrace AI responsibly, the misconceptions around jobs being replaced, and how leaders in any sector can stay ahead by building awareness and focusing on people.Brad also shares his personal journey from third-grade teacher to global futurist, the story behind the title Racing the Future, and his current passion for mentoring and coaching others to elevate their leadership.Pre-order Racing the Future now on Amazon or Barnes & Noble, and connect with Brad at bradwaid.com or newhorizonsglobal.net.

In this solo episode of Leaning Into Leadership, Dr. Darrin Peppard dives into the heartbeat of every great school: its culture. Drawing from personal experiences as a principal and superintendent, as well as insights from his writing and coaching, Darrin unpacks six essential elements of school culture and how leaders can directly influence each one.From clarity of vision to the importance of celebration, he explores how daily actions and leadership choices either strengthen or weaken the culture we want for our schools. You’ll hear stories from his own leadership journey—including lessons from coaching, team retreats, and learning to stop being “Captain Chaos”—and walk away with strategies you can put into practice immediately.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why clarity of purpose and vision is the anchor for cultureHow trust and psychological safety empower staff and students to take risksThe role of relationships and belonging in creating connected schoolsWays to reinforce culture through celebration and recognitionWhy consistency and accountability protect trust and fairnessHow leaders shape culture through modeling and intentionalityCulture isn’t a poster or program—it’s the lived reality in your classrooms, hallways, and community. As leaders, you are the culture carriers.Grab my free School Leaders Planner here to help you prioritize what matters most, block time with intention, and stay focused on the work only you can do.Grab an autographed copy of Road to Awesome: The Journey of a Leader

This week on the Leaning Into Leadership podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jen Schwanke, a seasoned educator, author, and deputy superintendent with nearly three decades of experience. Together, we explore the history of public education and why times of societal unrest so often result in schools being placed under the spotlight.Dr. Schwanke shares insights from her doctoral research, her leadership journey, and her brand-new book, Trusted: Trust Pillars, Trust Killers, and the Secret to Successful Schools. We dig into:Why schools feel under attack during turbulent times—and why this isn’t new.How leaders can avoid the traps of denial, defensiveness, or despair when criticism comes.The importance of being trust willing as well as trustworthy.Why strong systems are essential for good people to thrive.Practical advice for new principals handed the master keys for the first time.Strategies for instructional leadership when you don’t feel like an expert in every content area.How to build authentic trust with staff, parents, and students—and why curiosity beats judgment every time.Whether you’re stepping into school leadership for the first time or looking to sharpen your ability to lead with trust and positivity, Dr. Schwanke’s wisdom will help you show up with courage, clarity, and relentless optimism.📚 Learn more about Dr. Schwanke’s work and books: JenSchwanke.com✉️ Sign up for her newsletter: Principal Problems with Dr. Jen🎧 Listen to her on the Principal Matters podcast

What if your approach to leadership could be defined by just six words: Be brave, and care about people?Julia Bialeski has lived those words throughout her 20+ year career in public education, serving as a teacher, instructional specialist, assistant principal, elementary principal, and now Coordinator of Recruitment and Hiring for the Howard County Public School System in Maryland. She’s also the author of Leading with Grace: Cultivating Hope, Authenticity, and a Focus on People Throughout the Leadership Lifespan.In this episode, Julia and I explore:Her framework for the leadership lifespan — what it is and why it matters for leaders at every stage.How to enter a new leadership role with purpose, clarity, and strong relationships.The essential connection between recruitment, hiring, and retention — and why listening is your best strategy.The systems and boundaries leaders need to protect wellbeing and model it for others.How to build long-term pipelines for talent in schools and districts.Whether you’re a brand-new administrator or a seasoned leader starting a new chapter, Julia’s insights will help you navigate change with authenticity, focus, and grace.WEBSITE: juliabialeski.com Link to book: https://a.co/d/9jvD9Nk Link to subscribe to my free weekly Strategic Serenity newsletter: http://eepurl.com/jhBD3s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/julia-bialeski-7a4a122a9 Instagram: @julia.bialeski

The energy of a new school year is electric — but how do you make sure it lasts past the first bell in August? In this solo episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard shares five intentional leadership moves to keep your momentum alive from day one to the final bell. Drawing from his own experience as a principal, superintendent, and leadership coach, Darrin gives practical, actionable strategies you can start using right now. From anchoring your year with regular check-ins to guarding your calendar like your culture depends on it, these steps will help you start strong and stay strong through every season of the school year.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why momentum isn’t magic — and how to build it intentionallyHow to schedule “pulse checks” that keep your team alignedThe difference between empowerment and just delegating tasksHow to resist “shiny object syndrome” and stay focused on what matters mostSmall celebration and gratitude habits that reinforce your cultureWhy your calendar is one of your most powerful culture toolsIf you want to keep your August energy alive in October, January, and beyond — this episode is for you.

In this episode of Leaning Into Leadership, Dr. Darrin Peppard sits down with Dr. Chad Dumas—PLC expert, consultant, and author of the new book The Teacher Team Leader Handbook. Together, they unpack what it takes to build highly effective PLCs in schools, with a strong focus on clarity, trust, and the role of teacher team leaders.🔑 Topics covered:Why PLCs often get stuck—and how to move them forwardThe three critical responsibilities of a PLC team leaderHow to create psychological safety and trust on collaborative teamsWhy conflict can be productive (if it’s managed well)Strategies for building leadership capacity across your staffWhy vulnerability isn't weakness—it's the first step to trustHow to start strong, whether you’re launching a new school or relaunching PLCsAnd yes... Chad shares his current top-ranked BBQ spot 🍖Whether you're a principal, team leader, or district leader, this episode offers practical strategies and real talk about what it takes to build and sustain thriving teams.📚 Learn more about Chad’s books:Teacher Team Leader Handbook: Simple Habits to Transform Collaboration in a PLC at WorkLet’s Put the C in PLC: A Practical Guide for School LeadersAn Action Guide to Put the C in PLC: Reflecting and Doing📍 Mentioned in this episode:Google’s Project Aristotle on effective teamsPatrick Lencioni’s Five Dysfunctions of a TeamThe concept of "giraffe conversations" and inclusion vs. icebreakers🎧 Tune in and walk away with tools to support your team, grow leaders from within, and lead with greater clarity.

In this special joint episode of Leaning Into Leadership and Aspire to Lead, Darrin Peppard and Joshua Stamper team up once again for their annual back-to-school leadership conversation.As educators and leaders gear up for a new year, Darrin and Joshua dive deep into:What clarity looks like at the start of the school yearHow new leaders can define success before the chaos beginsBuilding relationships and trust before pushing new initiativesThe power of clearly modeling expectationsMaking feedback, coaching, and support part of your leadership culturePractical ways to sustain clarity, energy, and intentionality all year longWhether you're just stepping into leadership or returning for your 20th year, this episode offers real-world strategies to help you start strong and stay focused on what matters most.👉 Related blog post: Clarity for School Leaders – What to Do Now to Set Your Team Up for Success👤 Guest Bio – Joshua StamperJoshua Stamper initially used his artistic talent and creative thinking as a professional graphic designer before transitioning into public education, where he found his calling in helping students express themselves and thrive. His own struggles as a student inspired his mission to challenge the status quo of education, promote innovative practices, and lead with empathy.Joshua has served as a middle school Assistant Principal in North Texas for the past eight years, across four campuses and two districts. In addition to his administrative work, he is the author of Aspire to Lead, host of the Aspire to Lead podcast, a leadership coach, and educational presenter.Joshua and his wife Leslie are the proud parents of five children, three of whom they adopted from foster care. They are both trained in trauma-informed practices, which Joshua incorporates into his leadership style.Check out Joshua's new book (co-authored with Charle Peck) The Language of Behavior: A Framework to Elevate Student Success📲 Connect with Joshua:Website: www.joshstamper.comTwitter/Instagram: @Joshua__Stamper

Too many school leaders wear burnout like a badge of honor. Dan Stecken was one of them—until he hit a wall. In this episode, Dan, the Superintendent of Seneca Township High School in Illinois, joins Darrin to share his powerful journey from overwhelmed and unhealthy to intentional and empowered.Dan opens up about the toll leadership took on his health, the fallacy of servant leadership without self-care, and how shifting his mindset—and his habits—changed everything. Together, they discuss the real cost of constantly being “on,” how to stop being the help desk for your team, and the importance of building community and reclaiming purpose.You’ll also hear about Dan’s book, Stressed Leaders Stay in the Game, and the immersive retreat experience he created to help other leaders shed the weight of burnout and rediscover their why.In this episode:Why servant leadership needs a rewriteThe myth of inbox zeroMorning habits that set the tone for better leadershipBuilding a leadership community where vulnerability is a superpowerHow Dan is helping leaders stay in the game👉 Connect with Dan Stecken:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dan-steckenWebsite: stressedleaders.com📘 Grab the book: Stressed Leaders: Stay in the Game (Published by Road to Awesome)🎧 Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review to help other leaders find clarity and purpose on their journey.

In this solo episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard shares the framework and mindset behind truly effective leadership teams. Drawing on his work from coast to coast, including a recent workshop at the Innovative Schools Summit in Nashville, Darrin explains why high-performing leadership teams don’t happen by accident—they’re built with clarity, trust, and purpose.Through powerful stories and practical takeaways, Darrin walks you through his AWESOME framework, a leadership model that has helped schools and districts across the country move from dysfunction to alignment. Whether you're leading a building or a district, this episode offers actionable insights to help your team become more aligned, accountable, and impactful.In This Episode:What separates great leadership teams from the ones that just get byThe most common traits of ineffective teams (misalignment, lack of trust, unclear roles)How to implement the AWESOME Teams Framework:Accept the challengeWelcome feedback and supportExamine your prioritiesStand on your valuesOperate intentionallyModel what you expectEngage in reflectionWhy team norms and trust are essential for collaborationHow to align your leadership team around shared instructional goalsThe value of team retreats and neutral-facilitated reflectionMemorable Quotes:“If I want a better WE, I’ve got to be a better ME.”“Great leadership teams aren’t built by accident. They’re built on purpose.”“Be the thermostat, not the thermometer—set the tone instead of just reflecting it.”Resources & Links:RoadToAwesome.net – WebsiteThe Principal Academy – Online leadership courseBlog: Road to Awesome – Weekly leadership insightsBook: Road to Awesome: The Journey of a LeaderBook: Culture First ClassroomsConnect with Darrin:Instagram/Facebook: Darrin M PeppardTikTok/X: @DarrinMPeppardLinkedIn: Darrin PeppardLeadership Retreats: Contact via Road to AwesomeCall to Action:Share this episode with your leadership team and start a conversation about how you work together.Reflect: What is one step your team will take this week to become more aligned and intentional?Looking for a leadership retreat or customized support for your team? Reach out to Darrin to schedule your session.

In Episode 224, Dr. Chris Fuzie joins Darrin for a fascinating conversation on behavior-based leadership and the concept of “liminal space”—the space where individuals lead and follow simultaneously. Drawing from his 28 years in law enforcement and extensive leadership consulting experience, Chris breaks down how leadership is not a position but a behavior, and how great leaders also embrace the role of the follower. This episode explores what gets in the way of effective leadership, why behavior matters more than titles, and how reshaping the leadership-followership dynamic is the next evolution in the field.Guest Bio: Dr. Chris Fuzie is the owner of CMF Leadership Consulting and currently serves as the Business/HR Manager for a District Attorney’s office in California. A Leaderologist II and President of the National Leaderology Association, Chris holds a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), M.A., and B.A. in Organizational Leadership, with graduate certificates in Human Resources and Criminal Justice Education.Since 2010, he has developed and delivered leadership training for public, private, profit, and non-profit organizations. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and a former national instructor for the International Association of Chiefs of Police and California P.O.S.T. Courses. Chris is the author of Because Why... Understanding Behavior in Exigencies, S.C.O.R.E. Performance Counseling: Save the Relationship, Change the Behavior, and his latest book, Liminal Space: Reshaping Leadership and Followership.Chris is honorably retired from the Modesto Police Department after 28 years of service, having led teams including the Homicide Team, Hostage Negotiations Team, Street-Level Drug Team, School Police Officer Team, and the Traffic Motor Unit.Dr. Fuzie on Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-chris-fuzie-ed-d-m-a-ol-vl2-37587934/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090255232861https://www.facebook.com/chris.fuzie/https://x.com/CMFLeadershipWEBSITE:https://www.cmfleadership.com/https://www.scoreperformancecounseling.com/

In episode 223, Darrin wraps up the special six-part NASSP Principal of the Year finalist series with an inspiring conversation with Shauna Haney, Principal of Ogden High School in Ogden, Utah. Shauna shares her journey from teacher and coach to school leader, and how her coaching background helped shape her leadership philosophy.We dig into the systems she and her team have put in place to support staff, build teacher-led professional development, and align their work around a shared vision rooted in ROAR: Relationships, Opportunity, Accountability, and Rigor. You’ll hear how her team has achieved a 95% staff retention rate and how small, intentional acts—like student-written postcards of appreciation and teacher shoutouts—help fuel a positive culture of gratitude.Shauna also shares her approach to being present in the building, the importance of hallway zones and rolling desks, and how she's using data, teacher voice, and intentional leadership to make a lasting difference for her students and staff.About Shauna Haney: Before becoming the principal of Ogden High School, Shauna Haney served as an assistant principal and taught exercise science, health, special education, and physical education. She’s a two-time Teacher of the Year and received a Distinguished Leadership Award in 2014. Known for her forward-thinking leadership, Shauna helped Ogden become one of Utah’s first schools to implement a no cell phone policy. Her focus on building a strong, supportive school culture has led to an impressive 90–95% staff retention rate post-COVID, and under her guidance, the school has made tremendous gains in literacy, graduation, PBIS, and talent development. Shauna credits the school’s success to the powerful synergy between staff, students, and a deeply supportive community.Email Shauna: haneys@ogdensd.orgBooks Mentioned:The Wonder Drug: 7 Scientifically Proven Ways That Serving Others Is the Best Medicine for Yourself – By Stephen Trzeciak & Anthony MazzarelliRerouting: Resilience Tools and Tactics – By Duncan KirkwoodDriven by Data: A Practical Guide to Improve Instruction– By Paul Bambrick-Santoyo

In this episode of the Leaning Into Leadership podcast, Darrin sits down with fellow high school principal and podcast host Jeff Linden, Principal of Hastings High School in Nebraska. With a shared passion for culture and leadership, Jeff and Darrin dive into what it really takes to build a thriving school environment—especially for those stepping into leadership roles for the first time.Jeff opens up about his unconventional path to school leadership, including his service in the U.S. Army Reserves, a career in coaching, and his early days as a rookie head football coach and math teacher. He shares what inspired his transition to administration and how a single conversation set him on a leadership journey grounded in systems thinking and relationship building.Topics covered include:The power of systems to reduce chaos and create consistencyA 60-90-30 day transition plan for new school leadersHow to foster collective buy-in to support schoolwide accountabilityJeff’s approach to culture-first leadership and his school’s cell phone policy journeyWhy listening is a non-negotiable skill for new administratorsHow podcasting helps Jeff sharpen his leadership skillsIf you're stepping into school leadership—or looking to sharpen your systems and culture-building strategies—this episode is packed with insight and practical takeaways. Plus, Jeff shares how his podcast, Educational Leadership with Principal JL, is helping leaders grow and connect.📩 Connect with Jeff:Email: the.principal.jl@gmail.comPodcast: Educational Leadership with Principal JL (available on all major platforms)Social Media: Find his handles through his podcast pageMore contact info:  https://dot.cards/principal_jl Jeff Linden is the Principal of Hastings High School in Nebraska and the host of t the Educational Leadership with Principal JL podcast. With over 17 years in education, Jeff brings a wealth of experience as a teacher, coach, and school leader. A military veteran, Jeff’s leadership is grounded in discipline, systems thinking, and a passion for building strong school culture. He holds multiple advanced degrees in leadership and curriculum and is committed to empowering educators, supporting student success, and fostering collaborative school communities.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard sits down with Miguel Salazar, principal of Sundown Middle School and NASSP National Middle School Principal of the Year finalist. Miguel shares his deeply personal story—from growing up in poverty and facing multiple challenges as a youth to becoming a leader determined to give every student a chance at success.Miguel explains how a single teacher, Coach Danny Randolph, changed the trajectory of his life by believing in him. Now, Miguel pays that belief forward through a culture-first leadership approach rooted in visibility, relationship-building, and care.A highlight of their conversation is the “Beyond the Classroom” program, an initiative where staff use their passions—whether it’s budgeting, button sewing, or pickleball—to teach students life skills and, more importantly, to build trust and authentic connections.Key takeaways from this episode:The importance of being vulnerable and owning your story as a leaderWhy giving “every kid a champion” isn’t optional—it’s essentialA framework for building authentic relationships through schoolwide culture systemsThe role of self-care, balance, and spiritual growth in sustaining great leadershipWhether you're a new principal or a veteran leader, Miguel’s story and leadership model will inspire you to see the potential in every child—and in yourself.Guest Bio: Miguel Salazar is the principal of Sundown Middle School in Sundown, Texas. Before assuming his current role, he served as a math teacher, coach, assistant principal, and high school principal. Miguel is committed to fostering positive school culture, promoting equity, and ensuring every student’s success. His leadership philosophy centers on shared accountability, high expectations, and building strong, authentic relationships with students and staff. Through innovative programs like “Beyond the Classroom,” Miguel and his team ensure every student has a champion who sees them not just for who they are today, but for who they can become.

In this episode of Leaning Into Leadership, Darrin sits down with Joe LaTorre, a middle school English teacher, team coordinator, and founder of the Bridges program in Long Island, NY. Joe shares how looping, relationship-building, and culturally responsive practices help him build classroom communities rooted in trust and student empowerment. They dive deep into the origin and impact of Bridges, a student leadership and cultural exchange initiative, and explore how educators can go beyond curriculum to foster belonging and long-term engagement.Joe and Darrin discuss everything from rethinking first-day icebreakers to helping students tackle real-world issues like mental health and community leadership. You’ll hear stories about students taking charge, serving their communities, and building relationships that last beyond the school walls. If you’re looking for actionable ways to build student agency and school culture—this episode delivers.🎧 About Joe LaTorre:Joe LaTorre’s unconventional journey—from finance to an unexpected stint with the Teletubbies—ultimately led him to his true calling: education. What began as a passion for inspiring a love of reading and writing grew into a mission to equip students and adults with the skills and mindsets needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. Through leadership development, innovation, and a focus on purpose, his work challenges apathy and unlocks potential.As the founder of Bridges, a partnership between two Long Island school districts, Joe has helped teenagers develop leadership and communication skills to shape their futures. A two-time New York State Teaching Award winner, he has led district-wide initiatives, presented at regional and national forums, and been featured in multiple media outlets. Known for bringing people together and fostering cultures of success, Joe continues to explore new ways to create transformative educational experiences.📱 Follow Joe on Instagram: @TheJoeLaTorre🌐 Learn more at: www.JosephLaTorre.net