An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast

INTRO: Before listening to this episode, I want to make sure that you know that this episode deals with trauma. If you have experienced trauma in your past, you might want to find the right time to listen to this episode. And remember, if you or someone you know needs the suicide or crisis lifeline, you can dial 988 from any phone.  For me, the experiences my guest describes in this episode were a reminder of leading a school district during the pandemic. I can still remember it like it was yesterday. The year was turning from 2019 to 2020. I was a superintendent and I started hearing about a virus appearing in Seattle and New York. I wrote a note in my journal that we should plan to give an update on the emerging coronavirus at the April board meeting. In mid-March, however, I had a meeting with the Director of the local Health Department. It was abundantly clear the presentation would need to be way earlier than April. I would be explaining why the virus would be closing the district down. I remember responding to questions from community members. They wanted to know how this year was different from past years when there were high cases of the flu. In all other years, I thought, we were not directed to stay in our homes by every level of national, state, and local government. In all other years, we were not tuning in to the news or talking with neighbors who had been impacted in some way by this global pandemic. In all other years, we hadn’t felt such tremendous loss. And I can remember hoping for a return to normal routines. Everyone was hoping for that! Unfortunately, like school districts all across the globe, each decision caused more and more grief.  My guest, an author and former army veteran and trainer, talks about how to talk with adults who have experienced trauma. School leaders, all leaders, are not often trained to handle their own distress, nor are they necessarily skilled at recognizing the trauma of others. Dan Joseph is a terrific guest because he talks about the things to look for, the things to notice (like people being hypervigilant, for example). In the second part, he describes a time when a soldier was dealing with mental health during lockdowns. People were struggling with their own traumas and didn’t have the bandwidth to help this individual. The directions were to keep it quiet and stick with the mission. It’s a fantastic episode. BIO: Dan Joseph is an Army veteran and author of Backpack to Rucksack: Insight Into Leadership and Resilience From Military Experts. When I’ve read parts of his book, reviewed combatpsych.com tools,  and listened to him on The Power of Our Story, I was struck by some of the similarities we look for when it comes to leadership (in the military and in education), including the ability to look back and see what we can learn from our experiences. NOTE: Here is a link to a Harvard Business Review article I mention on self awareness. .  ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ At the end of every interview we have for teacher candidates, we say, “What questions do you have for us?” And they always ask, “What kind of support can I expect?” And we always say, “Don't worry, we'll give you a mentor.” But it's not real mentorship. I mean, it's support with the difficult kid, or the field trip form, or the grade card. But it isn't coaching.  That's where partners like EdConnective step in. Because they provide real coaching, observations and feedback with practice. EdConnective ensures that every student thrives by facilitating exceptional educator growth. If you're looking for support for your people, for your leaders, for science of reading efforts, for recruitment and retention initiatives, check out EdConnective.com. ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals in your schools. The recognize that communication lies at the heart of academic success. Don't let open positions hinder your students' progress. Partner with Empat Speech today and ensure every child in your district has access ot the speech therapy they deserve. -------- Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- My book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com.

INTRO: Hello Imperfect Leaders! In this episode, Esusu co-founder, Samir Goel, talks about empowering individuals to build credit and access financial opportunities previously out of reach. 💡   Samir shares invaluable insights gleaned from his partner, Wemimo Abbey and mentor Jeff Weiner (emphasizing the crucial role of compassion and transparency). In part 1, we talk about the company he co-founded and in part 2, we talk about what he has learned about giving feedback to employees. Join us as we talk about the different types of feedback: appreciative, motivational, constructive (and even destructive feedback). Together, we explore the power of compassionate leadership, the importance of transparency, and the dynamics of teamwork in cultivating shared visions. Imperfect leaders, you’re going to love this episode.    BIO:  Samir Goel (along with his partner, Wemimo Abbey) is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Esusu, the leading financial technology company helping individuals save money and build credit.  Esusu's rent reporting platform captures rental payment data and reports it to credit bureaus to boost credit scores. This allows renters to build and establish their credit scores while helping property owners mitigate against initiating evictions, powered by differentiated data and insights. Founded in 2018, Esusu reaches over 5 million rental units across all 50 states in the United States. Learn more at www.esusurent.com Follow them on Instagram: @myesusu and on Twitter: @getesusu.   ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ At the end of every interview we have for teacher candidates, we say, “What questions do you have for us?” And they always ask, “What kind of support can I expect?” And we always say, “Don't worry, we'll give you a mentor.” But it's not real mentorship. I mean, it's support with the difficult kid, or the field trip form, or the grade card. But it isn't coaching.  That's where partners like EdConnective step in. Because they provide real coaching, observations and feedback with practice. EdConnective ensures that every student thrives by facilitating exceptional educator growth. If you're looking for support for your people, for your leaders, for science of reading efforts, for recruitment and retention initiatives, check out EdConnective.com. ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals in your schools. The recognize that communication lies at the heart of academic success. Don't let open positions hinder your students' progress. Partner with Empat Speech today and ensure every child in your district has access ot the speech therapy they deserve. -------- Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- My book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com.    

INTRO: I told my guest that this podcast has almost exclusively been reserved for district leaders and education-adjacent leaders. While that is true, I think it’s important to live something I say whenever I describe the hierarchy of a school district - and that’s that there are leaders at every level. I believe it’s through our teachers that we can truly transform our schools. So when my guest today revealed herself as an infiltrator, I couldn’t contain myself. So funny! Imperfect Leaders, we’ve been infiltrated by the first teacher to join the podcast.   And she’s perfect. I refer to her as a bridge between classroom teachers and district leaders. She pulls back the curtain on how teachers think about leadership and district-wide decisions. It’s not magic, as you’ll quickly learn.   In the second part, my guest talks about pushing her agenda on students and how she may have been focused on her needs over the needs of others. Once again, there is a lot to what she says and how leaders lead their districts.   So yes, we’ve been infiltrated! It’s full of TLC as only my guest Danielle Nuhfer can deliver it. And I love it. It’s a great episode with so many clear connections to district and school leadership.   BIO: Danielle Nuhfer is a former public school teacher turned coach and the author of The Path of the Mindful Teacher, How to Choose Calm Over Chaos and Serenity over Stress, One Step at a Time. She has spent the last 20+ years navigating the ebbs and flows of school systems, while helping clients prioritize their own well-being so that they can be their best inside and outside their classroom and school.   ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? It's a silly question, I know, because I know you are! Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals in your schools. The recognize that communication lies at the heart of academic success. Don't let open positions hinder your students' progress. Partner with Empat Speech today and ensure every child in your district has access ot the speech therapy they deserve. Empat Speech. Empowering students. Empowering Schools. -------- Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- My book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com.    

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 – where purpose isn't just a fancy word, but the very lifeblood of every nook and cranny in our schools.”   Oof! That’s the very stereotype of a used-car salesman or auctioneer.   So instead, let me take it myself and say that my guest today made me think about Rick DuFour and his book "Professional Learning Communities at Work,” especially the concept of purpose-driven schooling, AND SPECIFICALLY how in the absence of a guiding purpose (my guest refers to this as self-awareness), one will find it difficult to do just about anything else. Start with your WHY before you discuss anything else.   My guest is John McClothlin and his book introduces us to five traits essential for cultivating an environment where purpose thrives. They are: 1.         Self-awareness 2.         Initiative 3.         Adaptability 4.         Efficiency 5.         Insistence  John has a military background – it made this conversation a little different, and soooo interesting. I am Peter Stiepleman and this is An Imperfect Leader.    BIO: John McGlothlin is my guest. John is former JAG, a former Army paratrooper who served across the US, Europe, and both Iraq and Afghanistan. He is a professor and the author of How to Deal with Damn Near Anything: The Paratrooper's Guide to Life. ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? It's a silly question, I know, because I know you are! Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals in your schools. The recognize that communication lies at the heart of academic success. Don't let open positions hinder your students' progress. Partner with Empat Speech today and ensure every child in your district has access ot the speech therapy they deserve. Empat Speech. Empowering students. Empowering Schools. -------- Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- My book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com.    

Dr. Monique Darrisaw-Akil, the Superintendent of the Uniondale School District, is my guest. One simply had to read the following excerpt from the Long Island Herald to know why had to talk with Dr. Akil: “Residents throughout Uniondale will tell you — this community, once grappling with educational challenges that seemed insurmountable, has undergone a remarkable transformation under the leadership of the Herald Beacon’s inaugural Person of the Year, Monique Darrisaw-Akil, the superintendent of the Uniondale School District.” When she took over in Uniondale, the district faced many challenges: ·      Lagging graduation rates ·      Below-average proficiency scores ·      Outdated infrastructure.   Dr. Akil has been credited with orchestrating a massive cultural and educational shift, including adding additional student resources. When I asked her about it, she was made it very clear that (a) she was the beneficiary of a good plan and (b) she the people she gets to work with are exceptional. A good plan and good people are great predictors for success!   In the first part of the conversation, we talk about the successes being seen Uniondale and in the second part, we discuss the adoption of a tech product and how the roll out didn’t go as planned. Here was a tool that was going to revolutionize a system they were working on. They launched and it was not good. It's a GREAT episode. One of my favorites!   ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? It's a silly question, I know, because I know you are! Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals in your schools. The recognize that communication lies at the heart of academic success. Don't let open positions hinder your students' progress. Partner with Empat Speech today and ensure every child in your district has access ot the speech therapy they deserve. Empat Speech. Empowering students. Empowering Schools. -------- Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- My book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com.  

INTRO: About a year ago, at about the one-year anniversary of Justice Ginsburg’s death, I was asked by my family to be a part a school naming committee in Philadelphia. There was a school there considering her name for the new name, and I was to represent Justice Ginsburg.  In the end, the school community didn’t choose to name the school Ruth Bader Ginsburg Elementary School. Instead, they chose Gloria Casarez Elementary School. Gloria was an LGBTQ+ advocate who served Philadelphia’s City Hall as the director of LGBT Affairs from 2008 to 2014 and she was attended this school as child. This was the perfect way to honor a local hero who died too early. The renaming process did something really rewarding for me. It gave me the opportunity to meet this week’s podcast guest, Julio Nuñez. In the first part of the conversation, Julio tells us about the process for changing the name of his elementary school in the Kensington Neighborhood of Philadelphia. In the second part, Julio talks about his first principalship and the intensity of being a school/district leader, and the mental health toll it takes on a leader, especially leaders typically underrepresented in leadership roles. Throughout our conversation, I kept thinking of a quote my aunt famously said: "Fight for the things you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you."  Julio does just that. It’s a great episode.   BIO: Julio Nuñez is my guest. Julio serves the children, families, and staff as the principal of Roosevelt Campus of the Norristown Area High School, outside of Philadelphia. His leadership journey, which spans a broad range of experiences, is firmly rooted in his desire for service and self-improvement.  He values compassion, courage, citizenship, and resilience above all else. Julio studied public policy at Georgetown University, graduated from Temple University with a degree in Journalism, Economics, and Political Science, and earned a master's degree in second language acquisition from Drexel University. Julio is pursuing his doctoral degree in Educational Leadership at Saint Joseph’s University, focused on immigrant and bilingual communities. NOTE: In our conversation, Julio  described a scenario in a piece he wrote in 2022 that speaks to the ripple effect – or unintended consequences – of a decision. In the scenario he described the process of “leveling” (now known as “enrollment-driven resource review”). We talk about the consequences of this practice, and how he draws a line from consolidating and eliminating a teacher to gun violence. ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? It's a silly question, I know, because I know you are! Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals in your schools. The recognize that communication lies at the heart of academic success. Don't let open positions hinder your students' progress. Partner with Empat Speech today and ensure every child in your district has access ot the speech therapy they deserve. Empat Speech. Empowering students. Empowering Schools. -------- Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- My book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com.  

INTRO: This week, we feature James Sturm, co-founder of the Center for Cartoon Studies. In this our conversation, we explore the dynamic interplay between the power of language and the power of images in shaping a district's narrative. Join us as we delve into strategies for effectively communication of vision and values. In the second half, James shares a compelling story about navigating a crisis when a flood threatened the campus library, sparking a reflection on proactive leadership, or the bias toward action. Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation on leadership with James Sturm.   BIO: James Sturm is a cartoonist and the cofounder of The Center for Cartoon Studies. He is the editor of the Center’s graphic guide series and his writings and illustrations have appeared in publications that include The Chronicle of Higher Education, Slate, The Paris Review, The Onion, The New York Times and on the cover of The New Yorker. James was a 2020-21 Harvard Radcliffe Institute Fellow and a 2008 and 2015 MacDowell Colony Fellow. James leads an organization that thinks about the Past, Present, and Potential. Source: The Comics Journal ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------- Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? It's a silly question, I know, because I know you are! Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals in your schools. The recognize that communication lies at the heart of academic success. Don't let open positions hinder your students' progress. Partner with Empat Speech today and ensure every child in your district has access ot the speech therapy they deserve. Empat Speech. Empowering students. Empowering Schools. -------- Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- My book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com.

INTRO: In just a few weeks, I will be traveling with a small group of amazing volunteers from all over the United States and Australia to Omo Village in Papua New Guinea. I serve on the Board of Directors for Be the Change Volunteers, an organization committed to building schools all over the world for communities interested in providing opportunities to their children, especially their girls. Our co-founders, Jimi and Cristi Cook, believe that communities with educated women thrive - and they’re right! BTCV is also building schools in Peru, Malawi, Rwanda, India, and Puerto Rico, so, if you’re interested in joining us on a build, go to www.bethechangevolunteers.org.   I mention this human-centered work because my guest Mike Erwin embodies these same principles. In a moment, I’ll tell you all about his many accolades, but what I learned from him during his After-Action Review is that it is appropriate to look past one’s resume and consider how that person makes you feel when you spend time with them (resume versus eulogy is how he describes it). This was such a meaningful conversation about leadership.   BIO: Mike Erwin is my guest. Mike is the founder and executive director of Team Red, White & Blue, an organization dedicated to enhancing veterans’ lives (their mission is deeply personal to Mike as he served three deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan with the US Army and teaches at West Point). Mike is also the co-founder of the Positivity Project, the founder and CEO of the Character & Leadership Center, and is the co-author of his newest book, Leadership is a Relationship. . ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------- Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? It's a silly question, I know, because I know you are! Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals in your schools. The recognize that communication lies at the heart of academic success. Don't let open positions hinder your students' progress. Partner with Empat Speech today and ensure every child in your district has access ot the speech therapy they deserve. Empat Speech. Empowering students. Empowering Schools. -------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- My book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy. 

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 of buying in, and harvesting the wisdom of his community that led to a thriving farm and a stronger, more resilient village. My guest today, Yaw Obeng, taught me that term, building in. In Part 1, we talk about how he chose the word relentless for their theme and how it became a living word. In Part 2, during his After-Action Review, Yaw describes the changing of attendance areas and what he learned from that experience.  I am Peter Stiepleman and this is An Imperfect Leader.   Bio: Yaw Obeng holds a bachelor’s degree in biology, history, and health sciences from the University of New Brunswick, Canada and a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling Psychology from the University of Toronto. He also has a Master’s Certificate of Business Performance and Risk Management from York University.     PS: At one point, Yaw tells me about the creation of a Super Council. I decided to see what AI would create if I asked it to create a super council led by a relentless superintendent wearing a cape. I added the HM for Hickman Mills. 😊 ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- NEW EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE "What do we want to create together?"  So proud to have co-written the foreword with Zach Taylor to this essential book on Human-Centered School Transformation. If you're a school leader looking to make sense of what you know to be true about schools, check it out.  ------- My book, An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy. 

INTRO: Earlier this year, I read The Delicate Handling of Equity Work in Conservative Communities, and was thrilled when the authors agreed to be guests on the podcast. In the two years since I left the superintendency, I have found myself talking with superintendents who have faced (or are facing) this same dilemma. They recognize the importance of the children in their district learning about systems of oppression, but sometimes their communities see any topic of equity as an assault on their "traditions" (or, in one example from their article, they say superintendents are bringing Critical Race Theory to their community when they talk about equity). As you can see, I have really been looking forward to talking with my guests today, the leaders of The Equity Collaborative, Graig Meyer and Jamie Almanzán In the first part, we talk about their article and in second part, the After-Action Review, I want you to imagine you have been asked to give the beginning of the year kickoff to 1000 teachers who may have been told they’re the obstacle to equitable practices. Not only that, you learn that contract negotiations have not been going well and the teachers have threatened to walk out of the kickoff!   And let me apologize in advance, I clearly forgot to turn on my mic, so I sound as if I am down a well, but Graig and Jamie sound AMAZING – you’ll hear more from them than me!    BIO: Jamie Almanzán is a facilitator, teacher, curriculum developer and leadership coach currently working as an Equity Leadership Coach and the owner of The Equity Collaborative in Oakland, California. Prior to leading The Equity Collaborative, he held the position of Senior Coach at the National Equity Project.  Graig Meyer is a social worker, educator, and youth development specialist working as an Equity Leadership Coach and partner in The Equity Collaborative. He has 16 years of experience leading equity work in public schools.  ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- NEW EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE "What do we want to create together?"  So proud to have co-written the foreword with Zach Taylor to this essential book on Human-Centered School Transformation. If you're a school leader looking to make sense of what you know to be true about schools, check it out.  ------- AN IMPERFECT LEADER IS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON My book,  An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com. If there is no hyperlink to follow, please go to Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy. 

INTRO: In this episode of An Imperfect Leader, Jeff Utecht, educational futurist and podcast host of Shifting Schools, joins me in conversation. We reflect on the intersections of tradition and transformation, innovation and integration. We  delve into Jeff's insights and experiences, and how he helps educators navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world. In the first part, we talk about topics like esports, cell phones in the classroom, and AI. In the second part, Jeff talks about a time he looked to the future for everyone else, and forgot to do it for himself and his career. My takeaway is it is clear, Jeff talks about what is currently on the minds of teachers and kids as they look to the future of schooling. Welcome to An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership podcast. BIO: Jeff is a highly regarded speaker, consultant, podcaster and author who has dedicated his career to exploring the intersection of technology and our lives. With over 20 years of experience working in the field, Jeff is widely recognized as an expert in educational technology integration, innovative practices and corporate onboarding programs. He is a sought-after speaker and presenter, having delivered keynote addresses and workshops at conferences around the world. Jeff’s work has helped to shape the way we think about technology and its role in our lives, and his insights continue to inspire leaders to embrace new technologies and approaches in their own practice. ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- NEW EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE "What do we want to create together?"  So proud to have co-written the foreword with Zach Taylor to this essential book on Human-Centered School Transformation. If you're a school leader looking to make sense of what you know to be true about schools, check it out. If you're a corporate leader, you will find a pathway to better results in every page. ------- AN IMPERFECT LEADER IS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON My book,  An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com. If there is no hyperlink to follow, please go to Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy. 

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 treat! I'm Peter Stiepleman and this is  An Imperfect Leader. BIO: Sean Stewart is not a superintendent. He’s an expert in historical leadership excellence and takes the lessons of the past into meaningful takeaways for today's leaders. His journey began in Chicago, IL, and over the past 30 years, he has had the opportunity of travelling, sailing, and immersing himself in history and cultures.   ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- NEW EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE "What do we want to create together?"  So proud to have co-written the foreword with Zach Taylor to this essential book on Human-Centered School Transformation. If you're a school leader looking to make sense of what you know to be true about schools, check it out. If you're a corporate leader, you will find a pathway to better results in every page. ------- AN IMPERFECT LEADER IS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON My book,  An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com. If there is no hyperlink to follow, please go to Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy. 

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 – 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 Case Study I'm Peter Stiepleman and this is An Imperfect Leader. BIO: Dr. Gary Yee is a special guest because his life and work as a learner and a leader have taken place all in one spot, the Bay Area. Born to Chinese working-class immigrant parents, Gary attended Oakland’s public schools. He graduated from UC Berkeley, joined the US Air Force (as 2nd LT) and returned to Oakland in 1972 to be a teacher and then a principal. He completed his doctorate at Stanford University and began a career as a professor and then Dean to the Vice Chancellor at Peralta Community College. Gary’s service to the Oakland Public Schools extended beyond the classroom and the building. In 2002, he was elected as a member of the school board, left the board in 2013, but was appointed to become the Interim Superintendent, for a year, because the superintendent left, and was subsequently re-elected to the Board in 2018, and served there until 2023. Gary worked with 9 superintendents during his 20 years of board service.    ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- NEW EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE "What do we want to create together?"  So proud to have co-written the foreword with Zach Taylor to this essential book on Human-Centered School Transformation. If you're a school leader looking to make sense of what you know to be true about schools, check it out. If you're a corporate leader, you will find a pathway to better results in every page. ------- AN IMPERFECT LEADER IS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON My book,  An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com. If there is no hyperlink to follow, please go to Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy. 

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 – 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 globally, emphasizing that phone-free leads to creativity and innovation, just without all the distractions. Join the conversation as we uncover the shared goals and aspirations that led educators, parents, and students to want to create meaningful phone-free learning experiences. It's an engaging discussion on leadership, purpose, and the pursuit of student success in a digital age. I am Peter Stiepleman. Welcome to An Imperfect Leader BIO: Diego Ochoa has been Superintendent of the San Mateo-Foster City Schools since 2021. He has more than 25 years of educational experience as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, director, executive director, and superintendent, and has a strong background in curriculum, instruction, special education, equity, student wellness, parent engagement, and school facilities. Graham Dugoni is the founder of Yondr, the established industry leader in helping educators, performing artists, families, organizations, and businesses all around the world create phone-free spaces (for full disclosure, Yondr is a sponsor of the podcast).  NOTE:  At one point, we talk about a school’s compelling purpose or their strategic plans, and how they cannot be achieved if the underlying issue is that nearly 50% of teens say they are online “almost constantly,” which is roughly double the share who said the same thing 10 years ago (that’s according to surveys over time by the Pew Research Center).  ------ An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- NEW EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE "What do we want to create together?"  So proud to have co-written the foreword with Zach Taylor to this essential book on Human-Centered School Transformation. If you're a school leader looking to make sense of what you know to be true about schools, check it out. If you're a corporate leader, you will find a pathway to better results in every page. ------- AN IMPERFECT LEADER IS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON My book,  An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com. If there is no hyperlink to follow, please go to Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy. 

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 well and then working to get more of it. My guest today talks about one of the more challenging issues urban school districts face: segregated schools. In this case, in Louisville, KY, the schools were integrated and served as a successful model for the nation. Political interests forced a change, and my guest, Sheldon Berman, was Louisville’s superintendent at the time. In his words, “there was a collective interest in retaining the best integrated school district.” Want to know what happened? Listen to his After Action Review. In the episode, we also talk about an article Shelley wrote: Taking a Stand Against Divisive Concepts Laws. We talk about how to be a principled leader, one that works to reclaim the narrative, that when you’re defending, you’re losing (advice from one of Shelly’s former board members).  Thanks for tuning in. I’m Peter Stiepleman and this is An Imperfect Leader BIO: Dr. Sheldon Berman is a veteran superintendent having served 28 year in Hudson and Andover, MA, Jefferson County (Louisville), KY, and Eugene, OR. During his tenure in Andover, he launched a new strategic plan focused on innovation and authentic learning. This included capstone projects for 5th, 8th and 12th graders, innovation labs and maker spaces, and a high school global network focused on the United Nations sustainability goals. On January 1, 2021, Dr. Berman was appointed AASA’s Lead Superintendent for Social-Emotional Learning. ------- An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- NEW EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE "What do we want to create together?"  So proud to have co-written the foreword with Zach Taylor to this essential book on Human-Centered School Transformation. If you're a school leader looking to make sense of what you know to be true about schools, check it out. If you're a corporate leader, you will find a pathway to better results in every page. ------- AN IMPERFECT LEADER IS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON My book,  An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com. If there is no hyperlink to follow, please go to Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy. 

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!   So we’re chitchatting and through the window, he sees a ukulele sitting on a table. He takes out a guitar from his vehicle and moment later, we find ourselves in a little jam session. I can safely say this was not how I expected my day to go. I didn’t have time for a jam session. I heard myself self-talking, to consciously accept the moment, to accept the change in schedule, to lean in to the unknown, and to be ok with a different plan.   My guest today had to do just that, but on a GRAND scale. Today on an Imperfect Leader, Dr. Meisha Porter is my guest. She was called to service, to a mammoth job, and from all accounts, she did it with distinction. In my story a moment ago, I can say we were just noodling on our stringed instruments, with no expectation of being good. In Meisha’s case, she was tasked with something tantamount to conducting a full symphony. And she had to be good. She had to be great.   In the episode, she tells us a story she has not previously discussed publicly. I’m Peter Stiepleman and welcome to An Imperfect Leader. Thanks for tuning in.   BIO: Dr. Porter is The Bronx Community Foundation’s inaugural President and CEO, but previously she held the position of Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education (the first Black woman to serve as NYC’s Chancellor) in the largest school system in the nation. To put that into context, she was responsible for educating 1.1 million students in over 1,800 schools. Prior to taking on the role as Chancellor, she served as The Bronx Executive Superintendent where she was deeply invested in sharpening school leaders’ equity lens and building collaborative practices across schools. She has served as superintendent for Community School District #11 and as a teacher, community coordinator, and principal of The Bronx School for Law, Government, and Justice.  ------- An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- NEW EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE "What do we want to create together?"  So proud to have co-written the foreword with Zach Taylor to this essential book on Human-Centered School Transformation. If you're a school leader looking to make sense of what you know to be true about schools, check it out. If you're a corporate leader, you will find a pathway to better results in every page. ------- AN IMPERFECT LEADER IS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON My book,  An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com. If there is no hyperlink to follow, please go to Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy. 

  INTRO: In this episode of An Imperfect Leader, Dr. Doug Reeves is my guest. The first thing we talk about is an article he authored, We Censor Ourselves in Education. In the article, he hooks the reader by describing a former intern he had while you has in China, and how she had gone on to anchor the news on China Central Television. She told Doug and his colleagues at a forum in Cambridge, MA: “We have no censorship in China.” When she was challenged at this evidently absurd statement, she replied, “We do not need censorship in China. We censor ourselves.” In my book and in the leadership model I use to advise others, there is a dimension called Nested Patterns, and that is the muscle of an organization’s work. Inside that dimension are terms Doug has discussed as an author and speaker:   ·      Terms like creativity and courage (in his book Beyond Conversations About Race, he and his co-authors step into a complex national dialogue – that took courage). ·      Terms like high level collaboration (in From Leading to Succeeding, he reminds readers that trust is built when decisions are made collaboratively). ·      Carol Dweck’s term growth mindset is visible in his work (in the book Deep Change Leadership, Doug references the fixed mindset paralyzing educators even when research disputes deeply-held beliefs – reading instruction, for example).   We talk about all of these topics and more! Thanks for tuning in to An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast.   BIO: Dr. Doug Reeves is the author of more than 40 books and more than 100 articles on leadership and education. He has twice been named to the Harvard University Distinguished Authors Series and was named the Brock International Laureate for his contributions to education. Additionally, Doug was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his service with the United States Army’s Military Intelligence.   ------- An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- NEW EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE "What do we want to create together?"  So proud to have co-written the foreword with Zach Taylor to this essential book on Human-Centered School Transformation. If you're a school leader looking to make sense of what you know to be true about schools, check it out. If you're a corporate leader, you will find a pathway to better results in every page. ------- AN IMPERFECT LEADER IS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON My book,  An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com. If there is no hyperlink to follow, please go to Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy. 

INTRO:  In this episode of An Imperfect Leader, Dr. Nathan Schilling discusses so many common issues facing superintendents and district leaders.  First, he describes his relationship to researchers studying school districts.  He shares his approach to engaging the research community and emphasizes the role of superintendents as lead learners. He takes us through an insightful after-action review of the early days of the global pandemic. Tune in for practical insights into system thinking, delegation, collaboration, and trust—crucial lessons for imperfect leaders navigating evolving educational systems.  BIO: Dr. Nathan Schilling is the Superintendent of Schools for Lansing School District 158 in South Cook County, Illinois, a position he has held since 2018. Nathan has experience at every level of public education. He has been a high school principal as well as a middle school band and general music teacher. Additionally, he is a Continuing Adjunct Professor of Educational Leadership at Concordia University Chicago. Dr. Schilling has been recognized for his many leadership accomplishments, many of them were recently highlighted by the National Association of School Superintendents (NASS). Additionally, he wrote an article we discuss in our conversation: I’ve Benefited from Engaging with Educational Researchers. ------- An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- NEW EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE "What do we want to create together?"  So proud to have co-written the foreword with Zach Taylor to this essential book on Human-Centered School Transformation. If you're a school leader looking to make sense of what you know to be true about schools, check it out. If you're a corporate leader, you will find a pathway to better results in every page. ------- AN IMPERFECT LEADER IS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON My book,  An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com. If there is no hyperlink to follow, please go to Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy. 

An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   INTRO: This 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 a marvelous meeting and I felt so good… until the next day… when I better understood how my actions undermined others. You must listen to that part of the conversation and the importance of recognizing the different perspectives and roles in any given situation!   BIO: Dr. Demond Means has spent two decades transforming culture, attaining exceptional organizational results, expanding access to enhanced opportunities to historically marginalized student populations, and shifting mindsets in school districts and communities across the country, fulfilling a passion to heighten achievement expectations, and eradicate inequities in education, opportunity, and access for marginalized populations. ------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- NEW EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE "What do we want to create together?"  So proud to have co-written the foreword with Zach Taylor to this essential book on Human-Centered School Transformation. If you're a school leader looking to make sense of what you know to be true about schools, check it out. If you're a corporate leader, you will find a pathway to better results in every page. ------- AN IMPERFECT LEADER IS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON My book,  An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com. If there is no hyperlink to follow, please go to Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy. 

An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   INTRO: In this encore episode, 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 talk 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 is an outspoken advocate for racial equity, traumatic-informed practices and student voice in education. Before becoming the University City's Superintendent, she was the assistant superintendent for human resources and leadership development for the Ritenour School District. Before that, she occupied a number of leadership roles over 15 years for the St. Louis Public Schools. In 2021, she was awarded Missouri’s Pearce Award. In January, 2022, she was named one of "Five Superintendents to Watch" nationally by "K-12 Dive” and then a month later, in February 2022, she was selected as a prestigious Children and Family Fellow by The Annie E. Casey Foundation.  ------- An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly. ------- NEW EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE "What do we want to create together?"  So proud to have co-written the foreword with Zach Taylor to this essential book on Human-Centered School Transformation. If you're a school leader looking to make sense of what you know to be true about schools, check it out. If you're a corporate leader, you will find a pathway to better results in every page. ------- AN IMPERFECT LEADER IS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON My book,  An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is available at Amazon.com. If there is no hyperlink to follow, please go to Amazon.com or peterstiepleman.com to order a copy.