Podcast
School District Leadership - hosted by Adam Welcome
Hosted by Adam · EN
a podcast about
leadership
ideas
educators
all of it
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
335 - Dr. Darin Brawley (Superintendent) The Power of Collective Will in Schools
Feb 2000:25:47Tap to summarizeBe sure to connect with Dr. Darin Brawley on LinkedIn here.Dr. Brawley transformed Compton Unified from a 58% graduation rate to 94%.A-G Completion rate from 12% to 76%Collective will is essential for achieving student success.Benchmarking against other districts drives improvement.Continuous improvement models help in adjusting strategies.Staying connected to schools is crucial for effective leadership.Succession planning ensures organizational growth and stability.Conflict is necessary for change and should be embraced.Work-life balance is important to prevent burnout.Mentorship plays a key role in professional development.Assessments should guide instruction and interventions.00:00 Introduction to Dr. Darren Brawley02:43 Transforming Compton Unified School District05:13 The Importance of Collective Will in Education07:55 Benchmarking for Success10:49 Staying Connected to Schools13:29 Succession Planning and Mentorship16:06 Work-Life Balance and Avoiding Burnout18:57 The Role of Conflict in Leadership21:19 Shout Outs and Closing ThoughtsBook Adam for your next event! mradamwelcome.com/speakingBrand new speaking video HERE!Adam's Books:Kids Deserve It - amzn.to/3JzaoZvRun Like a Pirate - amzn.to/3KH9fjTTeachers Deserve It - amzn.to/3jzATDgEmpower Our Girls - amzn.to/3JyR4vm
Transcribe →334 - Dr. Amy Alzina (Superintendent) Bringing The Energy With Your Team
Feb 1800:33:25Tap to summarizeDr. Amy Alzina is very well known across California and involved in so many different areas across the state and the country. Her energy everyday with her team and everyone she meets is contagious, you'll see what I'm talking about.Be sure to connect with Amy on LinkedIn here.Key takeaways from our conversation - - Every educator has a story that inspired them to teach.- Kindergarten is the heartbeat of education.- John Wooden's principles can guide effective leadership.- Community support is vital for personal and professional growth.- Effective onboarding can set the tone for new staff.- Measuring success goes beyond test scores.- Empowering students fosters leadership skills.- AI can enhance personalized learning experiences.- Educators must teach students about the responsible use of technology.- Collaboration among staff is key to student success.Chapters - 00:00 Introduction and Background of Amy Alzina02:52 The Magic of Kindergarten Education05:47 John Wooden's Influence on Leadership08:24 The Joy of Running and Community11:16 Interviewing for the Right Fit13:58 Onboarding New Staff with Enthusiasm16:52 Measuring Initiative Success in Education19:46 Empowering Student Leadership22:19 Navigating AI in Education25:11 Shout Outs and Closing ThoughtsBook Adam for your next event! mradamwelcome.com/speakingBrand new speaking video HERE!Adam's Books:Kids Deserve It - amzn.to/3JzaoZvRun Like a Pirate - amzn.to/3KH9fjTTeachers Deserve It - amzn.to/3jzATDgEmpower Our Girls - amzn.to/3JyR4vm
Transcribe →333 - Keegan Webb (Elementary Principal) - The Caffeinated Principal: Building a Positive School Culture
Jan 1500:26:54Tap to summarizeKeegan Webb is an Elementary Principal from central Texas, who shares her unique experiences and insights from her 21 years in education. Keegan discusses her journey from being a music teacher to an administrator, highlighting the different roles she takes on in a smaller, rural district. Keegan emphasizes the importance of building a positive school culture, supporting teachers, and connecting with students, especially those who may not excel in traditional academic or athletic settings. Keegan also shares her strategies for welcoming new staff and fostering a collaborative environment, as well as her thoughts on the integration of AI in education and the significance of maintaining focus amidst the many distractions in the educational landscape.Takeaways -Hire for personality and I train for skill.You want to make a positive culture where people want to be.Every single day is like an inbox activity.Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Keegan Webb01:34 - Life as a Rural Principal06:02 - Hiring and Supporting Teachers09:20 - The Role of AI in Education14:16 - Staying Focused as a Principal18:13 - Supporting All Students19:33 - Balancing Life and Work21:53 - Book Recommendations and Personal Growth25:42 - Shoutouts and Closing ThoughtsBook Adam for your next event! mradamwelcome.com/speakingBrand new speaking video HERE!Adam's Books:Kids Deserve It - amzn.to/3JzaoZvRun Like a Pirate - amzn.to/3KH9fjTTeachers Deserve It - amzn.to/3jzATDgEmpower Our Girls - amzn.to/3JyR4vm
Transcribe →331 - Dr. Anthony Mays (Superintendent, TX)
Jan 800:16:43Tap to summarizeToday on the show I interviewed Dr. Anthony Mays, Superintendent of Alief ISD in Texas. Be sure to connect with Dr. Mays on LinkedIn here.Dr. Mays shares insights on leadership, prioritization, and the importance of preparing students for their future. He discusses the diverse environment of his district, the role of AI in education, and the significance of treating people with respect. Dr. Mays emphasizes the need for educators to focus on their impact and the importance of community support in achieving success.Highlights -Dr. Mays leads a diverse district with over 109 languages spoken.Prioritization is key; align actions with strategic goals.Success is defined by preparing students for their next challenges.AI must be integrated thoughtfully to avoid widening the digital divide.Leadership is about treating people well and preparing successors.Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for leaders.Community engagement is crucial for educational success.Celebrating achievements fosters a positive environment.Little things can lead to significant outcomes in education.The work of educators is vital for student success.0:00 Introduction to Dr. Anthony Mays02:37 Leadership and Prioritization in Education05:26 The Role of AI in Education08:14 Learning and Growth as a Leader11:02 Legacy and Succession Planning13:47 Celebrating Achievements and Community Impact16:25 Final Thoughts and EncouragementBook Adam for your next event! mradamwelcome.com/speakingBrand new speaking video HERE!Adam's Books:Kids Deserve It - amzn.to/3JzaoZvRun Like a Pirate - amzn.to/3KH9fjTTeachers Deserve It - amzn.to/3jzATDgEmpower Our Girls - amzn.to/3JyR4vm
Transcribe →331 - Dr. Lorenda Chisolm (Superintendent)
Dec 1600:21:44Tap to summarizeIn my conversation with Dr. Lorenda Chisholm, the Superintendent of Greenberg Central School District, she shares her journey from law enforcement to educational leadership and so much more. Be sure to connect with Lorenda on LinkedIn!Key takeaways from Lorenda!1. Balance and boundaries are essential for effective leadership.2. Success in education is defined by relationships and community engagement.3. AI is a tool that must be embraced in education, but with caution.4. Leadership requires a humanistic approach and understanding.5. Building a strong support network is crucial for superintendents.6. Lessons from law enforcement can be applied to educational leadership.7. Defining success goes beyond metrics to include social-emotional aspects.8. Continuous learning and adaptation are key in leadership roles.9. Celebrating student achievements fosters a positive school culture.10. Leadership is a shared responsibility that involves the entire community.Book Adam for your next event! mradamwelcome.com/speakingBrand new speaking video HERE!Adam's Books:Kids Deserve It - amzn.to/3JzaoZvRun Like a Pirate - amzn.to/3KH9fjTTeachers Deserve It - amzn.to/3jzATDgEmpower Our Girls - amzn.to/3JyR4vm
Transcribe →330 - Dr. Marlon Styles - Make Your Move: A Journey of Ambition
Oct 1800:32:47Tap to summarizeMarlon's new book (Make Your Move) just released and it's a must read, grab your copy here!I had such a great time reconnecting with my friend Dr. Marlon Styles to discuss his new book, 'Make Your Move.' We talk about ambition, leadership, and the importance of reflection and empathy in personal and professional growth. Marlon shares insights on creating a culture of ambition, the significance of simplicity in leadership, and the necessity of being selective with opportunities. Marlon really emphasizes the value of collaboration and the need to evaluate progress regularly to maintain momentum in one's journey towards success.Big ideas from Marlon - Take care of the most important things in life.Reflect on what brings you joy and fulfillment.Creating a culture of ambition requires intentionality.Simplicity is key in leadership and communication.Set momentum markers to track progress.Empathy is essential for understanding team dynamics.Be selective with opportunities that align with your goals.Evaluate your progress regularly to stay on track.Collaboration enhances ideas and initiatives.Always ask why you are doing what you do.Be sure to connect with Marlon on LinkedIn here!Book Adam for your next event! mradamwelcome.com/speakingBrand new speaking video HERE!Adam's Books:Kids Deserve It - amzn.to/3JzaoZvRun Like a Pirate - amzn.to/3KH9fjTTeachers Deserve It - amzn.to/3jzATDgEmpower Our Girls - amzn.to/3JyR4vm
Transcribe →329 - Frank Polen (Assistant Superintendent)
Jun 500:26:38Tap to summarizeFrank Polen, is an Assistant Superintendent and Director of C&I at Buckeye Career Center in Ohio. We discuss Frank's extensive background in education, the importance of career exploration for students, and the innovative programs being implemented to prepare students for the workforce. Be sure to connect with Frank on LinkedIn here!Frank started as a middle school teacher and basketball coach.Buckeye Career Center offers a variety of programs for high school and adult education, focusing on skill development.Career exploration initiatives, such as summer camps, provide early exposure to various career paths for students.Engaging students in hands-on experiences is crucial for their career development.The center adapts its programs based on community needs and workforce trends.AI is becoming increasingly relevant in education, and educators must adapt to these changes.Hiring practices at Buckeye focus on supporting staff from diverse backgrounds, including those from the workforce.Leadership in education is about building relationships and serving the community.Continuous improvement and adaptation are key to success in educational leadership.Reading and ongoing professional development are essential for effective leadership. 00:00 Introduction and Background of Frank Polen02:54 Career Exploration and Summer Camp Initiatives05:59 Current Trends in Career and Technical Education08:49 Engaging Students in Career Pathways12:00 The Role of AI in Education15:10 Hiring and Retaining Staff in Education18:07 Leadership Lessons and Book Recommendations21:02 Closing Thoughts and Community EngagementBook Adam for your next event! mradamwelcome.com/speakingBrand new speaking video HERE!Adam's Books:Kids Deserve It - amzn.to/3JzaoZvRun Like a Pirate - amzn.to/3KH9fjTTeachers Deserve It - amzn.to/3jzATDgEmpower Our Girls - amzn.to/3JyR4vm
Transcribe →329 - Scott Borba (Superintendent/Principal)
May 16, 202500:26:16Tap to summarizeI had a really great time interviewing Scott Borba, a Superintendent/Principal, about his experiences in rural education, the importance of leadership, and the innovative professional development initiatives he has implemented in Merced County. Scott shares insights from his new book, 'The Leader You're Not,' emphasizing adaptability, empowerment, and the significance of community and networking in educational leadership.Connect with Scott on LinkedIn here.And please check out Scott's new book 'The Leader You're Not' here that just released!Takeaways -Scott is a Superintendent/Principal with a passion for innovation in education.Building relationships is key to effective leadership in small districts.Professional development is crucial for preventing burnout among educators.Networking through organizations like NAESP can significantly enhance leadership skills.Empowering others is essential for effective delegation and leadership.Adaptability is a critical trait for leaders in changing environments.Scott's book highlights the importance of self-awareness in leadership.Creating a supportive community among principals fosters growth and collaboration.Leadership should focus on serving others rather than personal gain.Mistakes are part of the growth process in leadership.Chapters -00:00 Introduction and Background of Scott Borba02:57 Leadership in Rural Education06:06 Professional Development Revolution in Merced County11:51 The Importance of Networking and Community14:51 The Leader You're Not: Insights from Scott's Book21:50 Adaptability and Leadership Styles27:01 Closing Thoughts and Final ReflectionsBook Adam for your next event! mradamwelcome.com/speakingBrand new speaking video HERE!Adam's Books:Kids Deserve It - amzn.to/3JzaoZvRun Like a Pirate - amzn.to/3KH9fjTTeachers Deserve It - amzn.to/3jzATDgEmpower Our Girls - amzn.to/3JyR4vm
Transcribe →328 - CTE in 10 - 'Special Series'
May 9, 202500:09:55Tap to summarizeIn this episode of CTE in 10 sponsored by Sphero, host Adam Welcome and guest Adrienne Emerson discuss the significance of Career and Technical Education (CTE) in preparing students for the workforce. They explore the essential skills taught in CTE programs, emerging career paths, the importance of community connections, and valuable resources for educators. The conversation emphasizes the role of internships in providing real-world experience for students, highlighting the need for adaptability and problem-solving skills in today's job market.CTE emphasizes practical skills in various industries.Problem-solving is a crucial skill taught in CTE.Emerging careers include industrial engineering and automation.Community connections enhance CTE program effectiveness.ACTE provides comprehensive resources for CTE education.Internships are vital for real-world experience.Students should learn to adapt to market needs.Communication and adaptability are key skills for the future.Building relationships with local industries is essential.Educators should leverage local resources for CTE programs.HUGE thanks to our sponsor Sphero who has the BEST programmable robots on the market for hands-on learning that delivers immersive learning experiences Pre-K-12! Chapters00:00 Introduction to CTE in 10 Podcast01:03 Understanding Career and Technical Education (CTE)03:20 Emerging Career Paths in CTE05:48 Building Community Connections for CTE07:31 Resources and Support for CTE Programs09:54 The Importance of Internships in CTE
Transcribe →327 - Dr. Kip Glazer (High School Principal)
Apr 26, 202500:27:42Tap to summarizeToday on the show we have Dr. Kip Glazer! Kip is a High School Principal in California and I really enjoyed our conversation. Be sure to stay connected with Kip on LinkedIn here. Check out Kip's website here. Kip is also a 2025 Google Innovator and you can learn more about her project here.AI, Google Innovator, Building leadership and capacity in others, creativity, shout outs and more.....I really think you're going to enjoy this episode!Hope you enjoy the conversation, thanks for listening!Book Adam for your next event! mradamwelcome.com/speakingBrand new speaking video HERE!Adam's Books:Kids Deserve It - amzn.to/3JzaoZvRun Like a Pirate - amzn.to/3KH9fjTTeachers Deserve It - amzn.to/3jzATDgEmpower Our Girls - amzn.to/3JyR4vm
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