Lebra Podcast

Nate Lichte
  • 0.0 (0)
  • EDUCATION

Welcome to Lebra, where software solutions can help develop leaders and solve organizational culture issues in any industry. The secure, easy-to-use and action-oriented AI-powered leadership solutions can save leaders time and help them build stronger relationships that truly make a difference.

Episodes

  1. Leading Through Growth and Constraints: Trent Provo on Strategy and Partnerships

    FEB 2

    Leading Through Growth and Constraints: Trent Provo on Strategy and Partnerships

    In this episode of the Lebra Podcast, host Nate Lichte sits down with Trent Provo, Superintendent of the Monroe-Gregg School District, to explore leadership at the intersection of small-town culture and big-district pressures. Trent shares his non-traditional start as a pre-dentistry major before pivoting into education, then working his way from the classroom to school leadership and ultimately the superintendency. The conversation focuses on how Monroe-Gregg is balancing staffing and budget realities with long-term vision. Trent outlines his approach to financial stewardship, being proactive, evaluating every vacancy, and exploring outsourcing options without abandoning current staff. He also explains why transparency is non-negotiable, from openly discussing costs in board meetings to educating the public on how school funding actually works. Nate and Trent also explore community alignment and partnership strategy, including expanded work with Hendricks Regional Health (athletic training and nursing services), mental health partnerships supported by the Kendrick Foundation, and Bulldog Blessings, an in-district food pantry supporting families. On the academic side, Trent highlights initiatives like the Monrovia School of Integrated Technology (alternative education), Project Lead The Way, laser engraving and hands-on STEM work, online school expansion, and growing dual credit opportunities. Timestamps 06:28 "District Vision and Community Focus" 07:04 Strategic Plan: Vision for Graduates 12:51 Transparent Communication on Finances 14:40 "Family Forum for Graduate Input" 19:25 "Strategic Partnerships and Community Goals" 21:19 Alternative Education Saves Students 25:47 Servant Leadership in Action 30:23 "Acceptance and Faith Matter" 31:00 "Letting Go of Overthinking" 34:49 "Communication and Chain of Command" Why You’ll Love This Episode If you’re leading in a district that’s trying to grow while facing budget pressure and staffing competition, this episode offers grounded, real-world leadership strategies. Trent shares how to stay transparent without creating panic, build community trust proactively, and keep initiatives aligned to a strategic plan—while still protecting culture, staff, and student outcomes. Connect with Trent ProvoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-provo-70ba8623Website: https://www.m-gsd.org/  Follow UsNate Lichte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lichte/Lebra Website: https://www.lebrahq.com/Lebra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebrahq About Lebra PodcastThe Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Lebra Podcast for more conversations on leadership, culture, and the future of learning.

    41 min
  2. Dream Big: Dr. Wheeler on Rural District Partnerships, Culture, and Instructional Excellence

    JAN 26

    Dream Big: Dr. Wheeler on Rural District Partnerships, Culture, and Instructional Excellence

    In this episode of the Lebra Podcast, host Nate Lichte sits down with Dr. Amber Wheeler, Superintendent of Humboldt USD 258 in Kansas, to explore what it looks like to lead a rural district that is growing, innovating, and deeply connected to its community. Amber shares her journey from elementary teacher and longtime principal to superintendent, stepping into the role just after COVID and navigating the “aftermath” while building trust through visibility and community presence. She describes Humboldt as a “yes and” community, where ideas turn into action quickly and that mindset carries into the schools. The conversation dives into the district’s standout initiatives, including a Promise Scholarship funded by the Works Family Foundation that covers students’ first four years of postsecondary education, and a robust CTE expansion that offers dozens of career pathways and real-world experiences like student-built homes. Amber also explains how Humboldt is tackling instructional improvement through aligned curriculum adoption, better data systems, and rural-to-rural collaboration to access stronger analytics and shared professional learning. Timestamps 03:44 "Southeast Kansas School District Overview" 06:32 Works Family Community Support Initiative 11:32 Leadership Transition in Rural Districts 15:18 "Expanding Education and Workforce Space" 18:09 "Challenges of Remote Living" 22:15 Curriculum Alignment and Teacher Support 24:25 Rethinking Student Growth Strategies 26:52 Collaborative Data-Driven Rural Education 31:26 "Supporting Child Regulation Strategies" 34:59 Advice for Aspiring Superintendents Why You’ll Love This Episode If you’re leading (or learning from) a rural district, this episode offers a clear example of what’s possible when community partnerships and school strategy reinforce each other. Amber shares practical ways to grow staffing pipelines, strengthen instruction without drowning in data, and build systems that support both academic excellence and student wellbeing—all grounded in a culture where “all people matter.” Connect with Dr. Amber WheelerWebsite: https://www.usd258.net/  Follow UsNate Lichte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lichte/Lebra Website: https://www.lebrahq.com/Lebra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebrahq About Lebra PodcastThe Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Lebra Podcast for more conversations on leadership, culture, and the future of learning.

    39 min
  3. Lead Better: Dr. Celeste L. Merriweather on Belonging, Trust, and “One Bridgeton” Leadership

    JAN 19

    Lead Better: Dr. Celeste L. Merriweather on Belonging, Trust, and “One Bridgeton” Leadership

    In today’s episode, host Nate Lichte sits down with Dr. Celeste L. Merriweather, Superintendent of Bridgeton Public Schools (NJ). Dr. Merriweather shares her leadership journey from Camden to Bridgeton and what it takes to lead a district experiencing significant demographic change with clarity, compassion, and high expectations. Together, Nate and Dr. Merriweather explore how belonging is built through daily systems: language access, parent engagement (not just involvement), targeted support for newcomer students, and a commitment to rigorous learning for every child. Dr. Merriweather also unpacks her district’s strategic plan “One Bridgeton” and how trust is strengthened through transparency, consistency, and follow-through. They close with practical advice for aspiring and first-year superintendents: shadow leaders, build networks, understand the political realities of the role, and invest in the relationships that make the work sustainable. Keynotes 00:33 Leadership journey: Camden → Bridgeton and the path to superintendent 03:06 Bridgeton context: community identity, diversity, and agriculture roots 05:52 Cultivating belonging: language access, expectations, and honoring families 07:28 Parent engagement: supports, workshops, and navigating today’s climate 09:08 Port of Entry: supporting newcomer students and building bilingual systems 10:29 “One Bridgeton”: strategic plan, shared identity, and consistent experience 11:07 Mental health supports and SEL as core culture work 12:13 Representation, curriculum, and equity: bias, microaggressions, and leadership 17:03 Freedom through accountability: self-governance and reducing over-policing 19:02 Systemic barriers: partnerships, pathways, and future-ready learning 20:51 Critical thinking in the AI era: teaching discernment, not avoidance 22:44 Career pathways: trades, cybersecurity, engineering, esports, and after-school learning 26:23 Trust & stay: transparency, communication, and leading the same everywhere 35:40 Advice for superintendents: shadowing, associations, political realities, resilience Why You’ll Love This Episode If you’re leading through demographic change or building culture in a district where trust must be earned daily this conversation delivers practical leadership clarity. Learn how to make belonging operational, how to rebuild credibility through transparency, and how to align strategy with the lived experience of students, staff, and families. Follow UsNate Lichte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lichte/Lebra Website: https://www.lebrahq.com/Lebra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebrahq About Lebra PodcastThe Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Lebra Podcast for more conversations on leadership, culture, and the future of learning.

    40 min
  4. Preparing Students for Their Future: David Moyer on Innovation, PLCs, and Leading Through Change

    JAN 12

    Preparing Students for Their Future: David Moyer on Innovation, PLCs, and Leading Through Change

    In this episode of the Lebra Podcast, host Nate Lichte talks with David Moyer, Superintendent of Northport–East Northport UFSD (NY). Drawing on more than 16 years in the superintendent seat, David shares how his district is building a future-focused learning system while honoring the traditions of a deeply engaged Long Island community. David and Nate explore how Northport is using professional learning communities, a clear Profile of a Graduate, and intentional language to drive culture change—helping teachers collaborate more deeply, personalize learning, and make education relevant to students’ futures. David explains why the shift from content coverage to skill development is critical, how AI can accelerate interdisciplinary learning, and why districts must make innovation a whole-system effort rather than an isolated initiative. They close with David’s clear-eyed advice for first-time superintendents: build board alignment early, invest in principal leadership capacity, and expect that “innovation” looks very different once real change begins. Timestamps 00:32 David’s pathway from English teacher and coach to superintendent 02:03 An introduction to Northport–East Northport UFSD 03:44 Balancing tradition and innovation in a high-performing community 13:12 Guaranteeing tier one experiences for all students 14:38 Personalized learning through PLCs and clear learning goals 17:32 Understanding and addressing teacher resistance 20:32 How common assessments and shared expectations improve learning 34:01 Using constraints as opportunities to innovate 36:03 Communication strategies that build trust during change 39:12 Advice for first-year and aspiring superintendents Why You’ll Love This Episode If you care about innovation, instructional coherence, or building a culture where teachers truly collaborate, this episode offers practical strategies from a superintendent who has led change across multiple states. David brings clarity to complex work showing how districts can reorient around skills, relevance, and life readiness while staying grounded in community identity. Connect with David MoyerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-moyer-88716a17Website: https://www.northport.k12.ny.us/ Follow UsNate Lichte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lichte/Lebra Website: https://www.lebrahq.com/Lebra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebrahq About Lebra PodcastThe Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Lebra Podcast for more conversations on leadership, culture, and the future of learning.

    42 min
  5. Read, Talk, Play Every Day: Randy Jensen on Early Literacy, Poverty, and AI in a Rural Town

    JAN 9

    Read, Talk, Play Every Day: Randy Jensen on Early Literacy, Poverty, and AI in a Rural Town

    In this episode of the Lebra Podcast, host Nate Lichte talks with Randy Jensen, Superintendent of American Falls School District (ID). After more than four decades in one rural community, Randy shares how a simple idea “Read, Talk, Play Every Day” became a community-wide movement for early literacy, showing up on T-shirts, in local businesses, and even at the senior center. Randy and Nate dig into how American Falls built an Opportunity Community Model that brings food, healthcare, housing support, GED classes, workforce services, and more together under one roof so families can actually move out of poverty. Randy also explains why he embraced AI early, how tools like ChatGPT save him hours each week, and why he pushed staff to try AI before worrying about student use.  They close with grounded advice for first-time and aspiring superintendents on relationships, visibility, and staying out in schools instead of stuck in the office. Timestamps 02:15 Forty-plus years in one small rural town and why longevity matters 03:18 The origin story of Read, Talk, Play Every Day 07:35 Why prevention beats closing the achievement gap later 09:19 How other Idaho communities adopted Read, Talk, Play Every Day 16:04 Grants, the Village satellite office, and coordinated services for youth 19:15 Quadrupling the food bank when SNAP dollars dropped 20:35 Redefining the superintendent role: cradle to career, not just K–12 23:06 A powerful GED graduation story and what it modeled for kids 24:36 Building relationships across cultures and engaging every parent 32:24 Practical advice for districts just starting with AI 34:39 Final guidance for first-year and aspiring superintendents Why You’ll Love This EpisodeIf you care about early literacy, family poverty, or the future of AI in schools, this episode gives you concrete, do-able ideas from a superintendent who has actually lived them out in one community for more than 40 years. Connect with Randy Jensen LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-jensen-41354817Website: https://www.sd381.k12.id.us/ Follow UsNate Lichte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lichte/Lebra Website: https://www.lebrahq.com/Lebra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebrahq About Lebra PodcastThe Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Lebra Podcast for more conversations on leadership, culture, and the future of learning.

    37 min
  6. Listen First, Lead Better: David Carson on Rural Culture, Four-Day Weeks, and Community Trust

    11/11/2025

    Listen First, Lead Better: David Carson on Rural Culture, Four-Day Weeks, and Community Trust

    In today’s episode, host Nate Lichte sits down with David Carson, Superintendent at Gooding School District (ID). A longtime educator and rural leader, David shares a “listen first” approach to culture—learning community history, aligning decisions to local values, and celebrating wins so the positive story travels farther than the noise. From districtwide PLCs and full-day kindergarten to a four-day instructional calendar with targeted Friday supports, David explains how Gooding focuses resources where they matter most. He also unpacks sustainable trust-building: transparent funding conversations, visible celebrations (yes, even the reader board on Main Street), and equipping staff as community storytellers who carry the message into neighborhoods and local businesses. Nate and David close with practical guidance for new superintendents: build your mentor network, stay visible, and never stop asking great questions—especially when the stakes are high and the context is uniquely local. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome & David’s pathway into leadership 03:33 Meet Gooding SD: rural context, community identity 05:59 “Listen first”: learning the local story before decisions 09:03 Classroom visibility with principals—walk-throughs that build trust 12:02 Celebrating wins publicly (and why it’s harder than it sounds) 14:44 Using a community reader board to share data & good news 19:42 Post-pandemic recovery: PLCs, full-day K, monthly PD days 24:35 Four-day school week: why it works and Friday supports 28:32 Moving from five to four days—process, surveys, and buy-in 33:38 Sustainable funding in a rural context—reserves, grants, tradeoffs 38:00 Levies & facilities: telling the story so voters understand the “why” 41:38 Advice for first-time superintendents—mentors, networks, and balance Why You’ll Love This Episode If you’re leading in a rural community—or anywhere trust is earned in conversations, not memos—this episode is a playbook. Learn how to pair curiosity with clarity, turn small wins into public momentum, and organize time (PLCs, PD days, targeted Fridays) so instruction and culture move together. Follow UsNate Lichte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lichte/Lebra Website: https://www.lebrahq.com/Lebra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebrahq About Lebra PodcastThe Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Lebra Podcast for more conversations on leadership, culture, and the future of learning.

    47 min
  7. Community Collaboration and Innovation: Shaping Mississinewa’s Educational Future

    11/04/2025

    Community Collaboration and Innovation: Shaping Mississinewa’s Educational Future

    In this episode, host Nate Lichte sits down with Jeremy Fewell, Superintendent of Mississinewa Community Schools (IN). From a district with high transfer enrollment and significant poverty, Jeremy walks through a “students-first always” approach: transparent communication, data-anchored decisions, and community partnerships that meet real needs. They discuss how Mississinewa engages families early through strong preschool pathways, centers safety and access in operational calls (like weather delays), and uses a community-built strategic plan to align budgets, programming, and culture. Jeremy also shares how listening tours, system-to-systems meetings, and visible leadership (yes, serving lunch) strengthen trust and retention. Nate and Jeremy dig into the push-pull of open enrollment, supporting local taxpayers while maintaining rich AP/dual-credit and CTE opportunities, and planning for legacy facilities, while keeping every decision tied back to what serves students best. Timestamps 05:18 "District Challenges and Opportunities" 08:00 Building Relationships, Strategic Planning Success 12:17 Balancing Out-of-District Enrollment 13:45 "Decisions Anchored by Students" 17:01 Leading by Example in Decisions 22:24 "Fostering Growth Through Dialogue" 25:05 Community Collaboration in Rural Mississeno 26:47 School Partnerships Enhance Arts Access 31:09 School Funding Referendum Necessity 34:57 "Focus on Relationships First" 37:30 Breaking Generational Poverty Together Why You’ll Love This Episode If you lead in a district where every decision must stretch resources without shrinking opportunity, this conversation will resonate. Jeremy offers a grounded playbook for aligning strategy with community values, balancing enrollment realities with taxpayer trust, and proving—daily—that student well-being and safety come first. Connect with Jeremy FewellLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-fewell-ed-s-9b009893 Website: https://www.lewiscass.net/  Follow UsNate Lichte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lichte/Lebra Website: https://www.lebrahq.com/Lebra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebrahq About the Lebra PodcastThe Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Lebra Podcast for more conversations on leadership, culture, and the future of learning.

    38 min
  8. Leading with Community: How Dr. Chris Daughtry Is Strengthening Lewis Cass Schools

    10/30/2025

    Leading with Community: How Dr. Chris Daughtry Is Strengthening Lewis Cass Schools

    In today’s episode, host Nate Lichte sits down with Dr. Chris Daughtry, Superintendent of Lewis Cass Schools (IN). With deep roots in rural education and service in the Air Force Reserve, Chris shares how he’s leading through listening, rebuilding trust, and shaping a strategic plan that reflects both fiscal responsibility and community pride. From launching a districtwide strategic plan built on clear pillars to mentoring future leaders and refreshing 1950s facilities, Chris offers a grounded look at how rural districts can thrive by focusing on people, purpose, and place. Nate and Chris also explore aligning district goals with community values, creating in-house instructional models, and redefining “success” through belonging, safety, and engagement. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome and introduction to Dr. Chris Daughtry 02:24 From classroom teacher to superintendent—mentorship and leadership growth 05:26 Defining success in a rural district: growth, safety, and fiscal stewardship 07:06 Listening tours and aligning goals with community values 10:18 Building a strategic plan rooted in district pillars 12:27 Preparing students for career pathways and modernizing facilities 13:47 Recruiting and retaining teachers in small-town Indiana 19:49 Mentoring future leaders and sustaining the pipeline 23:26 Elevating staff voice through collaboration and shared decision-making 34:42 Advice for rural superintendents—relationships first, always Why You’ll Love This EpisodeIf you lead in a rural or close-knit district, Chris’s story will resonate. You’ll hear how small schools can lead with flexibility, how culture and strategy intertwine, and why listening first creates lasting change. It’s a masterclass in grounded leadership—rooted in community, built on relationships, and driven by doing what’s best for kids. Connect with Dr. Chris DaughtryWebsite: https://www.lewiscass.net/  Follow UsNate Lichte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lichte/Lebra Website: https://www.lebrahq.com/Lebra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebrahq About the Lebra PodcastThe Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Lebra Podcast for more conversations on leadership, culture, and the future of learning.

    40 min
  9. People First, Radical Transparency: How Kellen Adams Is Steering Leavenworth USD 453

    10/28/2025

    People First, Radical Transparency: How Kellen Adams Is Steering Leavenworth USD 453

    In today’s episode, host Nate Lichte sits down with Kellen Adams, Superintendent of Schools at Leavenworth USD 453. A 17-year educator and entrepreneur, Kellen brings a business-minded lens to district leadership, balancing budget realities, community dynamics, and culture building in one of Kansas’s most unique ecosystems. From managing declining enrollment and high mobility to strengthening partnerships with faith and business communities, Kellen shares how a simple cadence, data, story, and relationship keep trust high and decision-making clear. He unpacks why “people first” promises matter, how radical transparency diffuses tension, and where entrepreneurial thinking (ROI, opportunity cost, recruitment as growth) helps districts navigate uncertainty. Nate and Kellen also explore practical steps for aspiring superintendents: leaning into weak spots, seeking operational reps, and building authentic community relationships that go far beyond transactions. Timestamps 03:06 From business/finance to coaching and education 08:47 Declining enrollment and budget pressure 10:10 High mobility, student and staff turnover 12:25 Communicating budget realities: data, story, relationship 15:25 People-first promises, no layoffs, raises, transparency 18:55 Entrepreneurial lens: ROI, opportunity cost, recruitment 23:50 Advice to aspiring superintendents, lean into gaps 35:37 Future outlook, prepare for renaissance or managed decline Why You’ll Love This EpisodeIf you’re leading through constrained budgets, enrollment shifts, or rapid staff turnover, Kellen offers a practical blueprint: communicate early and often, anchor decisions in people, and apply a clear ROI lens to recruitment and community engagement. It’s a masterclass in balancing optimism with operational rigor—without losing sight of kids, colleagues, and purpose. Connect with Kellen AdamsWebsite: https://www.usd453.org/  Follow UsNate Lichte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lichte/Lebra Website: https://www.lebrahq.com/Lebra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebrahq About Lebra PodcastThe Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Lebra Podcast for more conversations on leadership, culture, and the future of learning.

    41 min
  10. Kids First, Always: How Rusty Taylor Is Aligning Lakeland for Success

    10/22/2025

    Kids First, Always: How Rusty Taylor Is Aligning Lakeland for Success

    In today’s episode, host Nate Lichte sits down with Rusty Taylor, Superintendent of Lakeland Joint School District (ID). New to the role yet seasoned across nearly every seat in a school system, Rusty shares how he’s centering relationships, aligning teams, and rebuilding momentum with a simple north star: kids first. From launching a districtwide TRUST statement (Trust, Respect, Unify, Succeed, Transparency) to empowering principals and elevating classified staff, Rusty explains how clear expectations and consistent presence can transform culture and performance. Nate and Rusty also explore turning strategy into action, connecting ambitious goals to everyday behaviors, and using data with heart while modeling the work that inspires teams to follow. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome and why service work shapes servant leadership 00:39 Path to Lakeland and “read and react” leadership in the first months 04:04 From hospitality to education and what skills transferred 08:01 Early classroom lessons, coaching, and learning from losses 11:18 Reading district culture and context after leadership transitions 14:28 Building the TRUST framework and defining each element 18:55 Principals as culture carriers and speaking a common language 21:38 Strategy into practice, district support, empowerment, and classified staff 27:33 Competitive goals, data use, and continuous improvement 41:16 Leadership legacy, advice for aspiring superintendents Why You’ll Love This Episode If you’re a district leader focused on culture, clarity, and execution, Rusty’s approach offers practical guidance. You’ll hear how a simple shared framework anchors behavior, why presence and relationships matter, and how to connect big goals to meaningful daily action. It’s a grounded, optimistic blueprint for building a district where students thrive because the adults align. Connect with Rusty TaylorWebsite: https://www.sd272.org/  Follow UsNate Lichte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lichte/Lebra Website: https://www.lebrahq.com/Lebra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebrahq About Lebra Podcast The Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Lebra Podcast for more conversations on leadership, culture, and the future of learning.

    47 min
  11. Community First Leadership: How Dr. Bradford Lusk is Shaping Hamilton’s Future

    10/09/2025

    Community First Leadership: How Dr. Bradford Lusk is Shaping Hamilton’s Future

    In today’s episode, host Nate Lichte sits down with Dr. Bradford Lusk, who serves as the Superintendent of Hamilton Community Schools in Hamilton, Michigan. Known for his authentic, community-first leadership, Dr. Lusk shares how he rebuilt trust, restored engagement, and positioned his rural district for innovation and growth. From hosting “Scoop with the Sup” at a local ice cream shop to leading the district through a $41M facilities bond, Dr. Lusk explains how listening first, communicating transparently, and celebrating community partnerships have transformed Hamilton’s culture. Nate and Dr. Lusk also explore the district’s Prepared for Purpose vision—how career-connected pathways, personalized learning, and creative partnerships are preparing every student for what’s next, whether college, trades, or the workforce. Timestamps 01:02 Introducing Hamilton Community Schools & Community Culture 04:58 Dr. Lusk’s Journey from Educator to Superintendent 09:06 “Improvise, Adapt, Overcome” — A Leadership Mindset 12:24 Listening to Lead: Rebuilding Trust After Transition 15:33 Building Authentic Relationships with Families & Staff 18:11 “Scoop with the Sup” — Community Conversations Over Ice Cream 19:27 Strengthening Communication & Owning the Narrative 26:30 Passing a $41M Bond & Investing in Local Partnerships 31:26 Personalized Pathways & The “Prepared for Purpose” Vision 39:19 Advice for Aspiring Superintendents and New Leaders Why You’ll Love This EpisodeIf you’re a district leader or educator passionate about culture, communication, and community-centered innovation, this conversation with Dr. Lusk offers real, practical inspiration. You’ll hear how Hamilton’s focus on relationships, transparency, and storytelling helped rebuild trust and sparked a culture of growth. From reimagining communications to preparing every student for life beyond school, Dr. Lusk’s insights remind us what authentic leadership looks like in action. Connect with Dr. Bradford LuskLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradford-lusk-phd/ Website: https://www.hamiltonschools.us/  Follow Us:Nate Lichte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lichte/Lebra Website: https://www.lebrahq.com/Lebra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebrahq About Lebra PodcastThe Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Lebra Podcast for more conversations on leadership, culture, and the future of learning.

    41 min
  12. Leading with Purpose: Equity, Mentorship, and the Future of Public Education with Dr. Balderas

    10/07/2025

    Leading with Purpose: Equity, Mentorship, and the Future of Public Education with Dr. Balderas

    In today’s episode, host Nate Lichte sits down with Dr. Gustavo Balderas, Superintendent of Beaverton School District and incoming Superintendent of the Puget Sound Educational Service District. With 35 years in education, including 15 as a superintendent across Oregon, Washington, and California. Dr. Balderas brings a wealth of experience and a personal story rooted in resilience. He shares his journey from growing up as the child of migrant farmworkers and an English learner to becoming the National Superintendent of the Year. Together, Nate and Dr. Balderas explore what it takes to recruit and retain bilingual teachers, build strong district cultures, and create pathways for emerging leaders. They also dive into how mentorship, relationships, and systemic structures can transform schools and close opportunity gaps. Looking ahead, Dr. Balderas reflects on his upcoming transition to Puget Sound ESD, where he will support more than 35 districts and 425,000 students across the Seattle metro area, scaling collaboration and impact on a regional level. Timestamps  01:53 Growing Up as a Migrant Child & Early Educational Experiences  04:57 From ESL Student to National Education Leader  08:25 Recruiting & Retaining Bilingual and Diverse Teachers  10:41 Building Healthy District Cultures  12:31 The Role of Mentorship and Sponsorship in Leadership  14:54 Preparing to Lead Puget Sound Educational Service District  16:44 Building Relationships for Successful Transitions  18:27 Creating Pathways for Emerging Latino Leaders  20:38 Optimism for the Future of Public Education Why You’ll Love This Episode If you’re an educator, school leader, or anyone passionate about equity in education, this conversation with Dr. Balderas offers powerful insights. His story exemplifies the American dream, from migrant farmworker roots to national leadership, and underscores the importance of mentorship, diversity, and systemic change. You’ll hear how he has built teacher pipelines, improved graduation rates, and cultivated inclusive school cultures, all while keeping  Connect with Gustavo Balderas LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gustavo-balderas-d-ed-35343710 Website: https://www.beaverton.k12.or.us/ Follow Us:Nate Lichte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-lichte/ Lebra Website: https://www.lebrahq.com/ Lebra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebrahq  About Lebra Podcast The Lebra Podcast is where host Nate Lichte speaks with education leaders and innovators about the future of schools, uncovering stories and strategies that create meaningful impact. 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the Lebra Podcast for more conversations on leadership, equity, and the future of learning.

    25 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

Welcome to Lebra, where software solutions can help develop leaders and solve organizational culture issues in any industry. The secure, easy-to-use and action-oriented AI-powered leadership solutions can save leaders time and help them build stronger relationships that truly make a difference.

Information

  • Creator
    Nate Lichte
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Nate Lichte