Transforming Education: Leadership Lessons

In this episode of Standout Voices: Leadership Lessons,Russ sits down with Nicole Roeder, the 2025 Iowa Secondary Principal of the Year, to explore what it truly means to lead with heart and strength in the face of adversity. Nicole shares her journey as the principal of Rock Valley High School — a role marked not only by professional excellence but also by navigating profound community challenges, including the aftermath of last summer's devastating flood.Join us as Nicole offers wisdom on resilient leadership, thepower of relationships, and the unshakable commitment to students and staff, even in the toughest times. Whether you're a seasoned administrator, aspiring leader, or someone seeking inspiration, this conversation is a masterclass in how to stay grounded, lead with humility, and foster a community of support.Podcast recommendation: The 10 Minute EducatorBook Recommendation: UnSelfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me World

In this episode, Russ sits down with Dr. D. Nathan Phinney, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Northwestern College, to explore the intersection of leadership, service, and faith. Dr. Phinney shares his journey from faculty member to administrator, reflecting on the importance of humility, patience, and seeing leadership as an opportunity to serve others with grace.The two discuss key leadership principles, including taking the long view in decision-making, embracing trials as opportunities for growth, and fostering a culture of integrity and equity. Dr. Phinney also shares insights on the evolving landscape of higher education and the role of faith in shaping effective leadership. Whether you're an aspiring or seasoned leader, this episode offers meaningful lessons on leading with purpose, wisdom, and a servant's heart.Podcast recommendation: Future You with Jeff Selingo and Michael Horn, At the Table with Patrick Lencioni Book recommendations: Godwin by Joseph O'Neill, I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger, The Ballot and the Bible by Kaitlyn Schiess

We're excited to share that we've made some big changes around here! The Transforming Education: Leadership Lessons podcast is now Standout Voices: Leadership Lessons. Not only have we given the show a fresh new name, but we also have a brand-new host guiding the conversation as Russ Adams has taken over for Gary Richardson. In this installment of Standout Voices, Russ has a conversation with Gary Richardson to discuss a few of the influential leaders and mentors who have helped shape Gary's career and personal mission to grow in leadership as a lifelong learner. Russ brings with him many years of leadership experience in education and as an administrator, and together, we're diving deeper into the leadership voices that stand out. Whether you're a longtime listener or you're just joining us, we're thrilled to have you on this new journey. Tune in for conversations with thought leaders to explore innovative strategies that are shaping the future of transformative leadership. Podcast recommendation: Plain English with Derek Thompson Book recommendation: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

In this episode, Gary sits down with Thomas C. Murray. Tom serves as the Director of Innovation for Future Ready Schools® and is the author of Learning Transformed and Personal and Authentic, among others. Gary and Tom dive into creating a desired workplace and school culture and how the mindset and actions of the adults in the building are impacting that culture. Resources: Learning Transformed Personal and Authentic   Book recommendation: Dave Ramsey books

In this episode, Gary and guest, Jenn David-Lang of The Main Idea discuss the book Built to Move: The Ten Essential Habits to Help You Move Freely and Live Fully. Jenn discusses a few key ideas from this reading and how teachers, and all professionals, can adapt these concepts into their daily lives and get moving.   Resources: The Main Idea Book recommendation: Built to Move: The Ten Essential Habits to Help You Move Freely and Live Fully, Kelly Starrett and Juliet Starrett

In this episode, Gary and guests discuss the evolution of artificial intelligence and its significance for education. Dr. Dana Schon, Professional Learning Director for School Administrators of Iowa explains AI capacities, concerns, and limitations with helpful tool implementations for educators and leaders. Dr. Tom Truesdell, Director of Student Resources at Northwestern College shares insights on ChatGPT revolving around the learning disruption fears and idea generation opportunities. Both guests share practical advice for approaching the technology evolution in our classrooms and workplaces.   Book Recommendations: How to be a Transformative Principal, Jethro Jones   Trust & Inspire, Stephen Covey

On this episode, Gary sits down with the 2022 AFCA NAIA National Coach of the Year and the Head Coach of the 2022 NAIA National Champion Raider football team, Matt McCarty. Matt reflects on his team's successful season and the road to the championship. He's cultivated a culture of excellence built on trust, mental conditioning, and discipline to do the right thing every day. His leadership approach casts a vision for his coaching staff and players to encourage others to be their best. His team's ability to handle adversity is what he's most proud of – and the championship mindset is preparing student-athletes to win games and live meaningful lives. Book Recommendations: The Carpenter, Jon Gordon Leadershift: The 11 Essential Changes Every Leader Must Embrace, Jon Maxwell The Catalyst Leader: 8 Essentials for Becoming a Change Maker, Brad Lomenick Know What You're For: A Growth Strategy for Work, An Even Better Strategy for Life, Jeff Henderson

In this episode, Leslie welcomes guest Jacob Morgan. Jacob is a best-selling author and one of the world's leading authorities on leadership, the future of work, and employee experience. He is a highly sought-after keynote speaker and advisor who has worked with organizations such as Microsoft, Disney, Pepsi, Mastercard, and IBM. As a trained futurist, Jacob's insights are frequently featured in publications such as Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, Fast Company, and The Harvard Business Review. Our conversation dives into his expansive research and insight from his book, The Future Leader 9 Skills and Mindsets to Succeed in the Next Decade. Resources thefutureorganization.com Jacob on Twitter Jacob on LinkedIn Jacob on Facebook Jacob on YouTube Jacob on Instagram Book Recommendations Five Families: The Rise, Decline, and Resurgence of America's Most Powerful Mafia Empires Freezing Order: A True Story of Money Laundering, Murder, and Surviving Vladimir Putin's Wrath, Bill Browder

“A gathering is a moment of time that has the potential to alter many other moments of time.” - Priya Parker, The Art of Gathering Jenn David-Lang returns to the podcast, and we're discussing how to maximize the power and significance of meetings. When most of us plan staff agendas or lessons, we tend to focus more on the logistics (PPTs, refreshments, Post-Its, etc.), rather than the people, because those are the items we can control. What if we think about how we want gatherings to make people feel? We can build connection and a sense of belonging in our schools and teams right now. By taking lessons from Priya Parker's The Art of Gathering, she shares four tips for educators that help us rethink the way we gather to make our gatherings unforgettable, meaningful, and centered around people. 1. Find a specific purpose for the meeting. 2. Be an active facilitator. 3. Give it some spice. 4. Get beyond a “culture of nice.” Resources: www.themainidea.net The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters

In this episode, Gary talks with Liz Wiseman, author, researcher, and executive advisor who teaches leadership around the world. We discuss her New York Times best sellers Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter and The Multiplier Effect: Tapping the Genius Inside our Schools, and Wall Street Journal Bestseller, Rookie Smarts: Why Learning Beats Knowing in the New Game of Work. We also talk about her newly released book, Impact Players. Her research and experience offer significant insight into what leadership looks like in today's world, ways the best leaders make everyone smarter, and how to recognize contributors creating extraordinary value. Liz shares how to apply the characteristics of impact players in our own lives to make our work more impactful. Resources: thewisemangroup.com twitter.com/LizWiseman Book Recommendations: The Second Mountain, David Brooks

As a former educator and principal, Dr. Wilson has taken her years of experience and connections to gather accomplished leaders and practitioners into a community of coaching and support. Dr. Wilson is a certified coach, trainer and speaker on the John Maxwell Team. She is also the CEO and founder of Innovative Strategies Consulting located in Virginia. We enjoyed our conversation with the deeply committed, passionate, down-to-earth leader. She shares her leadership approach, starting with a simple yet intentional philosophy: “Lead by example.” Resources: dromegawilson.com twitter.com/dromegawilson Book Recommendations: The Compound Effect: Jumpstart Your Income, Your Life, Your Success by Darren Hardy

In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, our Leadership in Education Conference keynote speaker. We discuss the upcoming conference and his energizing keynote and breakout session for educators. We also chat about why teachers feel overwhelmed and how we can create value for those around us by leading with intention, connection and direction. As the Superintendent of Fall Creek School District in Wisconsin, Joe is nationally known for sharing his messages on how to change the narrative in your school by telling your story, creating a culture of yes and most recently, leading from where you are. Joe has co-authored books on The Power of Branding, Hacking Leadership and Lead From Where You Are. Every time we talk with Joe, we know you will walk away feeling empowered and encouraged in what you're already doing and how vital your influence is in education. Resources: www.jsanfelippo.com Leadership in Education Conference on October 18th www.nwciowa.edu/ed-leadership Book Recommendations: The Power of Moments, Chip and Dan Heath

Our guest, Dr. Lisa Remy, joins us as the most recently named Executive Director for School Administrators of Iowa. Prior to starting this new leadership role, she served as the Superintendent of the West Des Moines School District where she guided the school's culture around the slogan: Every Child Every Day. We discuss leadership lessons that include modeling the courage to be vulnerable and willingness to get uncomfortable. She shares advice for female leaders and a future-driven mindset for supporting educators and leaders. Book Recommendations The Burnout Epidemic: The Rise of Chronic Stress and How We Can Fix It, Jennifer Moss

This episode welcomes the superintendent of the Cedar Rapids Community School District, the inspiring Noreen Bush. Noreen was named the 2021-2022 Iowa Superintendent of the Year and received the 2021 American Association of School Administrators Women in School Leadership Superintendent Award. Norene has dedicated nearly 30 years to public education, finding leadership positions out of her passion to serve more students and educators. After a stage IV cancer diagnosis, she hasn't stopped using her life to reframe learning and leading − from clinical trials to school hallways. In this episode, Gary and Noreen discuss: · A servant leadership formula: setting vision, listening, learning then leading · Leading from the seat you're in · Building hope as a strategy · Choosing collaboration over isolation · Shared vulnerability and practice · Living life with hope and purpose · The proving zone vs. the improving zone Book Recommendations: The Moral Imperative of School Leadership, Michael Fullan

In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Roark Horn to help celebrate his recent retirement from School Administrators of Iowa (SAI). He reflects on his robust experience in education, from educator to administrator, and eventually executive director of SAI. We talk about changes in education over the years, advocating for the profession, and leveraging the learning momentum on the other side of the pandemic. He shares wisdom about using your influence and key leadership takeaways. “Talented leaders get the people in the building to the next level!” Book Recommendations: What's Going Well, Greg Bell Water the Bamboo, Greg Bell Permission to be Great, Dan Butler Learning Curve, Jared Smith Collective Equity, Sonja Hollis-Alexander and Nicole Law

Guest, Jessica Christensen shares about her vital work as Director of Community Development and Training for Please Pass the Love and a regional trainer for MidAmerica Mental Health Technology Transfer Center Network (MHTTC). She helps districts build better systems to support mental health needs and offers educators tangible skill training to support their students' – and their own health. Take away tips for better building relationships and the power of restorative work. By working together, communities can address the complex and varied school mental health needs more effectively through a climate transformation! Resources: Mid-America Mental Health Technology Transfer Network Pleasepassthelove.org Book Recommendations: Healing Our Path from Mental Health Illness, Dr. Thomas Insel

We're thrilled to welcome back leader, speaker and consultant Angela Maiers to the podcast. In this episode, she shares a sneak peek of her keynote for the NWC Trauma-Informed Conference this Spring. The education guru breaks down the three parts of her current mission: hope, mattering and moving forward. Whether or not you're able to join us for the conference, this conversation will inspire you to create structures for human-centered, community care and lean into honoring humanity.Resources:angelamaiers.comnwciowa.edu/events/trauma

Do you have habits that you have wanted to start, or drop? Maybe you've had success initially, only to return to your old routines. From the Main Idea, Jenn David-Lang is back on the podcast to discuss the key takeaways of the New York Times bestseller Atomic Habits by James Clear. With Clear's four simple laws of human behavior and concrete strategies, we walk through how to make the tiny changes that will ultimately lead to remarkable changes. Learn how to build better habits in life and work.Resources:www.themainidea.netAtomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones, James Clear

In this episode, Northwestern's newest graduate program director, Dr. Gregg Elliott joins the podcast. He shares his excitement for building the M.A. in School Counseling and M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling programs along with his passion to help fill the need for more licensed counselors. A growing number of youth and adults live with depression and/or anxiety. Consistently, thoughts of suicide among adults continue to increase. With his extensive research and work in suicide prevention and intervention, he offers guidance to support the climbing mental health needs of our students and those around us. It starts with creating a safe culture for mental health conversations.

Rachel Langenhorst is a lifelong learner dedicated to being a positive change agent. As a technology integrationist and instructional coach, she finds fulfillment in educating and empowering others through collaboration, creation, and connection. She speaks and instructs throughout the Midwest, focusing her efforts on technology integration strategies, social media, Internet safety, and effective teaching practices. In this episode, she shares her strategies for developing scalable models for educational technology that balances content knowledge, pedagogy, and tech integration. We also discuss her top leadership skills and advice for women in leadership.

Mastermind with Daniel BauerDaniel Bauer is an unorthodox Ruckus Maker who has mentored thousands of school leaders through his Better Leaders Better Schools blog, books, podcasts, and powerful coaching experiences. In this episode, we discuss his latest book Mastermind: Unlocking Talent Within Every School Leader. He shares valuable resources for leaders like the ABCs of a mastermind group and the gift of developing self-awareness and emotional intelligence.Resources:betterleadersbetterschools.comlinkedin.com/in/danielevanbauertwitter.com/alienearbudinstagram.com/alienearbudMastermind: Unlocking Talent Within Every School LeaderBook Recommendations:Courage is Calling: Fortune Favors the Brave, Ryan Holliday

As an international speaker and author, Joe Beckman's mission is to reclaim human connection in school communities throughout the world. He has shared his message of hope to over 1000 schools. In this episode, we talk about self-worth, resiliency and his own gratitude practice. Joe brings his infectious energy, humor and passion to Northwestern College as the Leadership in Education Conference keynote speaker, this October.Resources:till360consulting.comBook Recommendations:iGen, Jean M TwengeLost Connections, Johann Hari

In this episode, we talk with educators Dr. Laurie Barron and Dr. Patti Kinney. Dr. Barron is currently the superintendent at Evergreen Public Schools in Kalispell, Montana and was recently named Montana's superintendent of the year in 2021. Dr. Kinney has been a teacher and administrator at the middle levels of education in the state of Oregon where she was named the Oregon Assistant Principal-of-the Year in 2003. Together, they've co-authored a third book called We Belong: 50 Strategies to Create Community and Revolutionize Classroom Management. From their rich experiences and active research, they share the secret to every positive learning environment: belonging. All people need a place where their roots can grow deep – what if the classroom became this safe place for students! We discuss ideas for intentionally creating belonging and fostering a respectful culture.Resources:We Belong: 50 Strategies to Create Community and Revolutionize Classroom ManagementBook Recommendations:Building Strong Human Bridges, Ten Tools for Success, Harry AmendThe Unfinished Leader, Michael Lubelfeld, Nick Polyak, and PJ Caposey 

Brooklyn-based educator, Cornelius Minor inspires students to believe anything is possible. He also works with teachers, school leaders, and community-based organizations to support equitable literacy reform. We discuss his latest book, We Got This, which explores how the work of creating more equitable school spaces is embedded in our everyday choices—specifically in the choice to really listen to kids. This conversation is packed with actionable advice and motivation to lead change that positively influences others.Resources:kassandcorn.comtwitter.com/MisterMinor  Book Recommendations:Wild Tongues Can't Be Tamed, Saraciea J. FennellThe Prophets, Robert Jones Jr.

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Rahn Franklin and Dr. Val Stokes about inclusive excellence and their passion for cultivating inclusion on an educational campus. They share the foundational goals: build belonging and dignify differences. We also discuss how can prioritize diversity and embed equity, access and inclusion into systems.Book Recommendations:The Liturgy of Politics: Spiritual Formation for the Sake of Our Neighbor, Kaitlyn Schiess and Michael WearNo Longer Strangers: Transforming Evangelism with Immigrant Communities, Eugene Cho, Samira Izadi Page, et al.Fierce Conversations: Achieving Success at Work and in Life One Conversation at a Time, Susan Scott

This episode welcomes Jenn David-Lang to the podcast. With over 25 years of experience in education and as the founder of The Main Idea, she's passionate about supporting school leaders with really relevant professional learning. This episode is packed with bite-sized takeaways on current education ideas and practices! We discuss the C's of change, coping with stress, proactively preventing burnout and working with difficult or resistant staff.Resources:www.themainidea.netBook Recommendations:Leading the Rebound: 20+ Must-Dos to Restart Teaching and LearningThe Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why it MattersPodcast Recommendations:Brene Brown, Dare to Lead and Unlocking UsAdam Grant, Work Life

Red Raider head football coach, Matt McCarty joins this episode. We reflect on an unconventional season, which ended in Northwestern's incredible NAIA national runner-up achievement. Coach McCarty shares his journey to coaching and leadership philosophy. His emphasis on building a special culture that focuses on the process and how pursuing excellence every day has driven player and coach buy-in. We also discuss traits that he sees in the most successful student-athletes, and how they inspire us all to approach leading and living.

Education and assessment/grading enthusiast, Dr. Matt Townsley joins this episode! As a former district administrator and secondary teacher, he has firsthand experience implementing and leading lasting grading reform. He shares the strengths of standards based grading to create meaningful student grades. Along with strategies for district leaders are the 3 P’s for leading change and major barriers to implementing change. His love for education and enthusiasm for learning over earning is contagious. He will leave you inspired for student-focused, kingdom impact in your role.Resources:mctownsley.nettwitter.com/mctownsleyBook Recommendations:The Power of a Positive TeamWhat We Know About Grading: What Works, What Doesn’t and What’s Next

When teams believe they have the ability to make a difference, exciting things can happen in school. How can leaders help build this collective efficacy? Global speaker, leadership coach, author, Education Week column writer, and former teacher and principal, Peter DeWitt joins the podcast. From his vast work in schools, he offers research-based wisdom on school leadership, including the "Six Influences That Matter Most". He explains three steps to raising self-efficacy, and the value in defining the evidence of impact and student engagement. He also outlines starter steps for effective instructional leadership. We talk about reframing our mindset on Covid-19 “learning loss” and using what we learned during the pandemic to drive real action for equity.Resources:petermdewitt.com

Levi Wiersma and Joshua Rathbun conclude the Young Leaders Series. We discuss the concept of kingdom entrepreneurship from the 100X Podcast and how to sell yourself from the 10 Minute Entrepreneur. As aspiring business leaders, Levi is curious about how technology will continue to evolve as a contribution or divergence for human connection, and Josh is curious about how to lead a team professionally and effectively with our own leadership style.To listen to the original podcasts reviewed, see:100x Podcast: Kingdom Entrepreneurship with Pedro Adao10 Minute Entrepreneur: Mentoring How to Sell Yourself with Sean Castrina

Senior business majors, Sutton Derr and Michael Love join this week’s podcast. They review episodes from Business with Purpose, the Andy Stanley Podcast and the Side Hustle Show. They discuss finding a fulfilling life’s work and recognizing the distractions that leaders face. We also talk about the process of becoming a strong leader, which includes having patience with the process, preparing to grow continuously, asking for help and leaning on mentors.To listen to the original podcast episodes reviewed, see:Business with Purpose – Coffee with Purpose EP 231The Andy Stanley Podcast – the Three Villains of LeadershipThe Side Hustle Show – EP 406

Entrepreneurship students, Makenzie Fink and Jonathan Gabrielse breakdown leadership lessons from The 10 Minute Entrepreneur Podcast with Sean Castrina and the EntreLeadership Podcast with Daniel Tarday and guest Mathew McConaughey. Key takeaways include risk-taking, re-inventing yourself, brain dumping, optimizing your strengths and the importance of developing new leadership muscles.To listen to the original podcast reviewed in this episode, see EntreLeadership #414 and The 10-Minute Entrepreneur with Sean Castrina.

Throughout the Young Leaders series, we’ll be talking with entrepreneurship students for a quick take on popular leadership podcasts. They share the episode’s big ideas and how those ideas inspire leadership growth. In this episode, Mia Hoogeveen and Dominic Seivert explain the Seven Virtues of Leadership from Andy Stanley’s interview with Habitat International CEO, Jonothan Reckford. Hear how it has transformed Mia and Dominic’s view on who can be a leader.To listen to the original podcast reviewed in this episode, see Andy Stanley’s “The Virtues of a Leader” Part 1 and Part 2. 

Inspiring future leaders and developing an entrepreneurial mindset are significant passions for Professor Erica Vonk. As director of the new Center for Innovation and Leadership at Northwestern, Erica partners with college students to develop entrepreneurial skills. In this episode, she shares her approach to empowering young leaders. We talk about the value of creating psychological safety, failing forward, outsight and the process of grace.We’ll be talking with some of Erica’s students coming up in this Young Leaders series.Book Recommendation:Act Like a Leader, Think Like a LeaderPodcast Recommendation:EntreLeadership

In the final episode of the Legacy Leaders Series, we talk with one of Northwestern’s most legendary coaches, Larry “Bubb” Korver. His ability to build relationships has been the catalyst for influencing a magnitude of servant leaders since 1967. We talk about his philosophy to make athletes better than they ever thought they could be both on the football field and off. His simple challenge "do you know who you are?" leads us to our identity in God and away from the comparison to others.

From coaching consecutive national championship teams to helping lead a city through a pandemic, Earl Woudstra shares what keeps him grounded. We talk about who's inspired him and discuss his own core values including treat others with respect, do your best, do everything to God’s glory, and just do the right thing.Resources:orangecityiowa.comfacebook.com/cityoforangecityiaBook Recommendations:In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day

The stronger the healthcare system, the stronger the community. Orange City Area Health System CEO Marty Guthmiller’s leadership lessons include tips to a strong community. He provides advice on hiring with the acronym “DHB: Decent Human Beings”. We also reflect on "who are we when things don't go right?".Resources:ochealthsystem.orgfacebook.com/orangecityareahealthsystem/Book Recommendations:The book of Proverbs

In this episode of the Legacy Leaders series, we welcome Congressman-elect Feenstra, representative of Iowa’s 4th district. He shares his journey to politics. We discuss what motivates a legacy leader and the opportunity to listen well before emerging as an empowering voice for others.

In this new series called Legacy Leaders, we’re talking to thought leaders who are - you’ve guessed it - leaving a positive legacy. Our first guest, Les Douma shares his wisdom and rich experiences in education. We discuss his principles of culture and leveling up: from good to great leadership.

Why is forgiveness a key ingredient of leadership? Learn how in this episode with Dr. Jiying (Jenny) Song, professor and first editor of the newly released book, Servant Leadership and Forgiveness: How Leaders Help Heal the Heart of the World.Resources: Servant-Leadership and Forgiveness: How Leaders Help Heal the Heart of the World Book Recommendations: White Awake The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarnation in the Age of Colorblindness Movie Recommendation: American Son

Sarah Brown-Wessling is nationally known as the 2010 National Teacher of the Year, as Iowa's representative from Johnston, Iowa! Sarah shares what it means to lead through collaboration and not competition, the importance of listening, and providing support to teachers to lead in their own space. Resources: sarahbrownwessling.com twitter.com/SarahBWessling www.instagram.com/sarahbrownwessling www.facebook.com/sarahbrownwessling Book Recommendations: Miracle in the Andes Refugee Teacher Man It Won't Be Easy Stamped

Guest Corey Westra is Commissioner of the Great Plains Athletic Conference. Corey shares about his journey in sports leadership, pursuing excellence, building strong relationships and the GPAC’s commitment to keep athletes playing safely in a pandemic.Book recommendations Attitude: Develop a Winning Mindset on and off the court Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success

As a consultant to the Iowa State Department of Education, Lora Rasey has had a front-row seat in establishing the Teacher Leadership Compensation Program. She shares about the impact of transforming teacher leadership in Iowa. Take away highlights of TLC and the goals for empowering shared leadership.Resources: Educateiowa.gov – Teacher Leadership and Compensation (TLC) System

One of the most innovative educational leaders in the country, Devin Vodicka talks about efficacy and personalized learning. Using his own immigrant experiences, his influence as superintendent and chief impact officer embraces diversity, promotes a positive impact and empowers every learner.Resources: www.altitudelearning.com twitter.com/dvodicka linkedin.com/dvodicka twitter.com/AltitudeLearn facebook.com/altitudelearn Book recommendations: Learner Centered Leadership: A Blueprint for Transformational Change in Learning Communities Emergent Strategy: Shaping Change, Changing Worlds The Power of Place: Authentic Learning Through Place-Based Education

Steve Connell shares his vision for building an award-winning Pride of the Dutch Marching Band and then NWC’s Athletic Band. The program, built on student leadership, led to empowering students and gaining incredible buy-in. He also talks about the rewards of teamwork, modeling, and above-all: having fun.

Sought-after Christian motivational speaker and Northwestern’s new VP for Athletics shares how God uses ordinary people to get through extraordinary circumstances. By focusing on not what we can accomplish, but what God can do through us, we create a sense of peace in a constantly changing world. Book Recommendations: Anxious for Nothing, Max Lucado

A superintendent of the year, author and national speaker, Joe Sanfelippo brings his electric inspiration to the podcast. In this episode, we connect on his practical advice for hacking leadership like giving others ownership in the process, creating value, and recognizing every moment matters. Oh and Go Crickets!Resources:www.jsanfelippo.comtwitter.com/Joe_SanfelippoBook recommendations:Power of Moments, Chip and Dan HeathInnovate Inside the Box, George Couros and Katie NovakStories that Stick, Kindra HallPersonal and Authentic, Chad Murray

As Executive Director of School Administrators of Iowa, Dr. Roark Horn is guiding the leaders of our Iowa schools. He shares how we are responding to challenging and uncertain times and what he’s curious about in education. Listen to Roark discuss what part of normal we need to let go of and his advice to aspiring principals to be available, accessible and approachable.Book recommendations: Between the World and Me, Ta-Nehisi Coates Culturize: Every Student. Every Day. Whatever It Takes., Jimmy Casas The 4 Disciplines of Execution, Sean Covey

Dr. Theresa Pedersen brings a pandemic perspective from the future as students begin to return to the classroom in Germany and her own classroom on the United States military base. She gives us insight into the German educational system and the response to COVID-19. Theresa shares her resources for virtual learning with her special education class. Resources: twitter.com/Tpedersen25 Book recommendations: Personal & Authentic, Thomas C Murray Learner Centered Innovation, Katie Martin

Have you been struggling with the disappointment of canceled life events? Missing these big moments, or rituals, is hard for students, educators, parents and families. Lori Hayungs from the Science of Parenting Podcast joins Gary to talk about honoring these losses and the power of connection as we develop resiliency and grit in hard times.

In this episode, author and Tedx speaker Dr. Katie Martin relates the current state of education to the infamous story of Kodak. Education must adapt. Learning opportunities and teaching methods must evolve to match the ever-changing needs of today’s learners. She discusses the need for personalized learning for educators. Her challenge: “If we want to change how students learn, we must change how teachers learn.” Katie and Gary also discuss the role that collective efficacy has on personalized learning. Resources: katielmartin.com twitter.com/katiemartinedu instagram.com/katiemartinedu/ facebook.com/katiemartinedu/