Leaning into Leadership

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

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

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

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

Partner Spotlight:Let’s face it — leadership is complex. That’s why Darrin is proud to partner with digiCOACH, a walkthrough and coaching platform that simplifies observation and feedback so leaders can focus on what really matters — students and instruction.Visit digiCOACH.com and mention that Darrin sent you for special partner pricing.In Episode 245 of the Leaning Into Leadership podcast, Dr. Darrin Peppard sits down with Jayme Braida, Principal of Columbus Elementary in Chariton, Iowa, and the 2025 Iowa Elementary Principal of the Year.Jayme opens up about her personal journey—from overcoming childhood ADHD and family trauma to becoming a passionate advocate for trauma-informed leadership, equity, and authentic connection. She shares the mindset shifts that helped her turn her challenges into strengths and how those experiences shape her leadership every single day.Listeners will learn:Why vulnerability and self-awareness are the foundation of strong leadershipHow to foster safety and belonging for students and staffPractical steps to build trauma-informed practices into everyday school cultureThe importance of joy and purpose in sustaining long-term impactThis is an episode full of honesty, reflection, and hope—a must-listen for any leader who believes in the power of connection to drive transformation.Connect with Jayme at jaymebraida.com

Partner Spotlight:Let’s face it — leadership is complex. That’s why Darrin is proud to partner with digiCOACH, a walkthrough and coaching platform that simplifies observation and feedback so leaders can focus on what really matters — students and instruction.Visit digiCOACH.com and mention that Darrin sent you for special partner pricing.Have you ever felt like you’re just running from one issue to the next — solving problems, answering questions, and checking boxes — only to end the day realizing you didn’t actually move the needle on what matters most?If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The issue isn’t time — it’s clarity.In this solo episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard dives deep into why clarity is the most powerful tool a leader can possess. He explores how clarity transforms busyness into impact, how it builds trust, and how leaders can create cultures where everyone understands the “why” behind the work.You’ll learn practical steps to:Gain clarity for yourself by aligning purpose, priorities, and actionsCommunicate clearly so your team knows where you’re going and whyModel and empower clarity to drive ownership and momentumBuild a culture of clarity that strengthens trust and accountabilityDarrin also references Hubert Joly’s Harvard Business Review article on values-driven leadership and shares how Stephen Covey’s reminder — “The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities” — is foundational to effective leadership.Because when leaders lead with clarity, organizations move with purpose.Resources Mentioned:AWESOME Leadership Action Guide — a free tool to help you clarify your purpose and priorities“5 Principles of Purposeful Leadership” by Hubert Joly (Harvard Business Review)Visit our website: https://darrinpeppard.com/

Clarity in leadership starts with visibility—and that’s exactly what DigiCoach delivers. Designed to simplify walkthroughs and feedback, DigiCoach helps school leaders build a culture of coaching rooted in trust, consistency, and growth. Collect data, identify trends, and turn every classroom visit into an opportunity for meaningful support and improvement.Visit digiCOACH.com and mention that Darrin sent you for special partner pricing.What happens when the person leading your organization leads through fear? In this powerful and practical episode, Darrin sits down with Kate Lowry, a Silicon Valley–based CEO coach, venture capitalist, and author of Unbreakable: How to Thrive Under Fear-Based Leaders.Kate and Darrin unpack the realities of working under toxic, dominance-driven leadership and share strategies for not only surviving but thriving in those environments. From understanding a fear-based leader’s motivations to preserving your own energy and identity, Kate offers tools that empower listeners to regain control, find their voice, and protect what matters most.In this episode:What fear-based leadership really looks like in practiceHow to use emotional intelligence and strategy to navigate toxic power dynamicsThe “gray rock” method — and why being boring can be powerfulHow to protect your time, energy, and sense of selfWhen to stand your ground — and when it’s time to move onPractical takeaways from Unbreakable that every leader should knowConnect with Kate LowryWebsite: katelowry.comUnbreakable: How to Thrive Under Fear-Based LeadersAmazon (Paperback) | Amazon (eBook)LinkedInInstagramFacebook

In this special on-location episode of Leaning Into Leadership, Dr. Darrin Peppard sits down with longtime friend and colleague Dr. Daniel Hornick, Superintendent of Orange County Public Schools in Virginia. Together, they unpack what it truly takes to grow future leaders in education, the realities of superintendent leadership today, and the balance between leading your board, your organization, and yourself.Dr. Hornick shares insights on:Building a leadership pipeline through intentional coaching and “grow-your-own” development.Managing the dichotomy between leading a district and leading a school board.The value of trust, transparency, and reflection in effective leadership.How partnering with an outside coach has elevated confidence, clarity, and consistency across his district’s leadership teams.This conversation goes beyond education—it’s about how any organization can strengthen its leadership culture through trust, reflection, and clarity of purpose.Connect with Dr. Dan Hornick:LinkedIn | X (@DanHornick)Orange County Public Schools on LinkedInConnect with Dr. Darrin Peppard:Visit darrinpeppard.com to explore his keynotes, leadership workshops, and coaching programs designed for school and corporate teams.

Episode summaryTo celebrate the launch of darrinpeppard.com, Darrin shares six quotes that have shaped his leadership—and how each one connects to clarity, systems, purpose, relationships, and the courage to take the road less traveled. Along the way, he shares pivotal stories: moving from “Captain Chaos” to intentional leader, the coaching that changed everything, trusting relationships over titles, and choosing the Road to Awesome.The six quotes & themes“Clear is kind.” — Brené Brown → Clarity is respect; clear expectations build trust and culture.“You don’t rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your systems.” — James Clear → Systems create freedom; move from reactive to proactive.“We are uniquely positioned to help the person we once were.” — Rory Vaden → Why Darrin coaches overwhelmed leaders: he was one.“People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” — Simon Sinek → Purpose drives followership; leadership begins with why.“The quality of your leadership is reflected in the quality of your relationships.” — John C. Maxwell → Leadership is a people business; trust is the measure.“Two roads diverged… I took the one less traveled…” — Robert Frost → Courage to choose the harder, truer path—the Road to Awesome.Key moments & storiesEarly lesson: tough conversations and the kindness of clarity.From big goals/small systems to calendar discipline and true prioritization.Coaching that shifted Darrin from firefighter to leader.Purpose as the anchor for speaking, coaching, and the new site.A critic turned ally: trust as leadership’s true metric.Three “two-roads” inflection points: focusing on what’s right, leader vs. firefighter, and the leap into entrepreneurship.Timestamps (approx.)00:00 — Welcome & website launch celebration02:40 — Quote 1: Clear is kind05:30 — Quote 2: Goals vs. systems09:10 — Quote 3: Helping the leader I once was14:40 — Quote 4: People buy your why18:00 — Quote 5: Relationships mirror leadership22:10 — Quote 6: The road less traveled27:10 — Call to action & closeResources & linksExplore the new site: darrinpeppard.comGrab the free AWESOME Leadership Action Guide (link in show notes)Speaking, coaching, and workshops: inquire via the site’s contact pageCall to actionIf you’re ready to move from chaos to clarity and lead with intention, visit darrinpeppard.com and download the FREE AWESOME Leadership Action Guide. Book Darrin for your next keynote, retreat, or leadership team training.

In this solo episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard dives deep into one of the hardest challenges leaders face — guiding their teams through circumstances completely outside their control. From district-wide budget cuts to post-COVID uncertainty, Darrin explores how leaders can help their teams release what they can’t control and regain focus, trust, and agency around what they can.Drawing on a real coaching conversation and a personal story from his time as a superintendent, Darrin outlines how acknowledging loss, re-centering on purpose, and empowering staff voice can rebuild trust and momentum during difficult times. You’ll walk away with practical tools you can use in your next leadership meeting — including a powerful exercise to help your team “throw away” the things they can’t control and reclaim focus on what truly matters.In this episode:The emotional toll leaders and teams experience during crisesHow to help your people let go of what’s beyond their controlA real-world example from a post-COVID leadership retreatThree concrete leadership actions to rebuild trust and focusA simple reflection question to guide your next team meetingLeaders can’t fix everything — but they can bring calm, clarity, and courage to those they serve.

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