An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast

Peter Stiepleman
An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast

Hello and welcome to An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, a series where leaders look back at decisions they made and ask themselves: * What happened? * What got overlooked? * What did you learn about relationships or what new relationships were formed? * What frustrated you? * What could you have done differently? * And in the end, what was something good that came out of the experience – because it is through our mistakes where our greatest learning takes place. I'm Peter Stiepleman. I'm your host AND I'm an imperfect leader. I spent more than 20 years teaching and leading, first in the Oakland Public Schools in Oakland, CA and then in the Midwest – Missouri, to be exact – where I was a teacher, a principal, an assistant superintendent and the superintendent of the 4th largest school district in a state of more than 500 districts. I am constantly striving to learn from my experiences and from the experiences of other leaders. The aim of this podcast is to lift the learning and lift the imperfect leaders up. That way, when you hear the term imperfect, you’ll see strength, strength from the candor needed to recognize imperfection as a real advantage. an imperfect leader, TLI, peter stiepleman, Dr. Peter Stiepleman, imperfect leaders, school culture, education, culture, school, positive school culture, principal, superintendent, aspiring superintendent, new superintendent, experienced superintendent, leadership, district leadership, school leadership, school leadership thoughts, inspiration, strategic planning, leadership development, human-centered leadership, collective aspiration, nested patterns, leaders’ learning work, educators, superintendent pipeline, Model for Human Centered School Transformation, transformation, podcast

  1. Beyond the Default Setting: Larry Dake on Embracing Imperfection, Cultivating Growth

    -2 J

    Beyond the Default Setting: Larry Dake on Embracing Imperfection, Cultivating Growth

    In this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, Dr. Larry Dake, Superintendent of the Chenango Valley Central School District, shares invaluable lessons learned throughout his leadership journey, emphasizing the importance of: Relationships: Building strong relationships with staff, students, and families is crucial for effective leadership. Dr. Dake highlights the power of visibility and accessibility, advocating for "management by walking around" to foster meaningful connections and gain valuable insights. Empathy: Leaders must approach challenging situations with empathy, understanding the perspectives of all involved, particularly families facing crises.  Growth Mindset: Embracing imperfection and vulnerability is key to leadership growth. Dr. Dake encourages a willingness to learn, acknowledging that no one has all the answers. This humility fosters collaboration, allowing leaders to tap into the collective wisdom of their teams. Tune in to learn from Dr. Dake's experiences and discover how embracing imperfection can lead to stronger, more human-centered leadership. #leadership #education #podcast #relationships #empathy #growthmindset #imperfectleader CURSING DISCLAIMER: I do curse at one point when we're discussing complicated vs complex. It's at minute marker 6:15. 😳 ----- An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ -------- An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.imperfectleader.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly.

    52 min
  2. When Education Wins, We All Win: A Conversation with Vikas Pota

    12 NOV.

    When Education Wins, We All Win: A Conversation with Vikas Pota

    It was an honor to have Vikas Pota as our guest on An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast 🎧   🎙️ We had a fantastic conversation about T4 Education, the World's Best School Prize, and the importance of recognizing and celebrating the amazing work happening in schools around the globe.   Here are four key takeaways: Shining a Spotlight on Success: Prizes are a powerful way to recognize the achievements of entire school communities, not just individuals. This recognition can inspire others, attract resources, and drive systemic change. 🏆 The Power of Connection: Schools that excel prioritize community collaboration and understand the importance of building strong relationships with stakeholders. These connections are essential for success and create a ripple effect that benefits everyone. 🤝 Leading with Values: Authentic leadership is rooted in integrity, hard work, and a commitment to making a positive impact. By staying true to our values, we build trust, inspire others, and create lasting change. 🌟 Navigating Professional Transitions: As leaders consider new opportunities (either by choice or due to circumstances out of their control), they aren't always sure how to approach the transition in a meaningful way. Vikas offers an approach he learned from others.🌟 ----- An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ At the end of every interview we have for teacher candidates, we say, “What questions do you have for us?” And they always ask, “What kind of support can I expect?” And we always say, “Don't worry, we'll give you a mentor.” That's where partners like EdConnective step in. They provide real coaching, observations and feedback with practice. EdConnective ensures that every student thrives by facilitating exceptional educator growth. If you're looking for support for your people, for your leaders, for science of reading efforts, for recruitment and retention initiatives, check out EdConnective.com. ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals and partners with school districts with a menu of options.  -------- An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.imperfectleader.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly.

    44 min
  3. Tony Aylsworth Builds Trust and Teaches Us How Every Vote Counts

    5 NOV.

    Tony Aylsworth Builds Trust and Teaches Us How Every Vote Counts

    It's Election Day! Make sure you get out there and make your voice heard-- every vote counts! 🎧 In this encore episode of An Imperfect Leader, we feature Tony Aylsworth, Superintendent of Pleasantville Community Schools in Pleasantville, Iowa. Tony shares valuable insights from his leadership journey, including: The Power of Collective Aspiration: Tony discusses how he works with his school community to define shared images of success and create pathways for students to thrive. He highlights the importance of character education, emphasizing service and community engagement. Leading Through Uncertainty: Tony recounts the experience of leading two school districts simultaneously during a challenging time. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships, earning trust, and fostering collaboration. Lessons from a Bond Election: Tony shares a compelling story about a bond election that passed by just one vote, underscoring the importance of every individual's participation in the democratic process. He discusses the challenges of combating misinformation and the need for effective communication strategies. Don't forget to vote today! 🇺🇸 Your vote makes a difference. ----- An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ At the end of every interview we have for teacher candidates, we say, “What questions do you have for us?” And they always ask, “What kind of support can I expect?” And we always say, “Don't worry, we'll give you a mentor.” That's where partners like EdConnective step in. They provide real coaching, observations and feedback with practice. EdConnective ensures that every student thrives by facilitating exceptional educator growth. If you're looking for support for your people, for your leaders, for science of reading efforts, for recruitment and retention initiatives, check out EdConnective.com. ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals and partners with school districts with a menu of options.  -------- An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.imperfectleader.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly.

    33 min
  4. Dr. Kim Hartmann's Recipe for Outcome-Focused School Boards: Trust

    29 OCT.

    Dr. Kim Hartmann's Recipe for Outcome-Focused School Boards: Trust

    Join us as we sit down with Dr. Kim Hartmann, CEO of KCH Solutions and former school board member, for a conversation about building trust, fostering collaboration, and navigating the complexities of school leadership. Kim shares invaluable insights from her experience in both the corporate and education worlds, including: 🔑 The critical link between trust and outcomes: When trust is present, school boards focus on results. When trust is lacking, they get bogged down in process. 🤝 Strategies for building high-performing teams: Discover the power of team psychological safety, a key ingredient for successful collaboration, especially when tackling complex challenges. 🤔 Reframing challenges as opportunities: Kim breaks down a real-world scenario where initial setbacks led to an even more impactful outcome, highlighting the importance of reflection and mid-course correction. This episode is packed with actionable takeaways for leaders at all levels. Tune in and discover how to cultivate a culture of trust, collaboration, and continuous learning in your district. ----- An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ At the end of every interview we have for teacher candidates, we say, “What questions do you have for us?” And they always ask, “What kind of support can I expect?” And we always say, “Don't worry, we'll give you a mentor.” That's where partners like EdConnective step in. They provide real coaching, observations and feedback with practice. EdConnective ensures that every student thrives by facilitating exceptional educator growth. If you're looking for support for your people, for your leaders, for science of reading efforts, for recruitment and retention initiatives, check out EdConnective.com. ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals and partners with school districts with a menu of options.  -------- An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly.

    50 min
  5. Dr. Rachel White Talks Mirrors, Windows, and Data in the Superintendency

    22 OCT.

    Dr. Rachel White Talks Mirrors, Windows, and Data in the Superintendency

    Join Jamie Almanzán and me for an insightful conversation with Dr. Rachel White, Associate Professor of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. White, a former school board member and policy analyst, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for equity to her research on the superintendency.   In this episode, you'll learn:   💡 The importance of humanizing the superintendency. Dr. White discusses the need to see superintendents as individuals with feelings, families, and a deep commitment to their communities.   📊 The stark reality of gender and racial disparities in the superintendency. She reveals that only 28% of superintendents are women, with even lower numbers for leaders of color, and explores the systemic barriers contributing to this gap.   💪 How superintendents can effectively engage with policymakers. Dr. White offers practical advice on building relationships with legislators and advocating for policies that support students and schools.   Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation!  ----- An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ At the end of every interview we have for teacher candidates, we say, “What questions do you have for us?” And they always ask, “What kind of support can I expect?” And we always say, “Don't worry, we'll give you a mentor.” That's where partners like EdConnective step in. They provide real coaching, observations and feedback with practice. EdConnective ensures that every student thrives by facilitating exceptional educator growth. If you're looking for support for your people, for your leaders, for science of reading efforts, for recruitment and retention initiatives, check out EdConnective.com. ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals and partners with school districts with a menu of options.  -------- An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly.

    57 min
  6. Beyond the Label: Kurt Schneider Transforms Education for Every Learner

    15 OCT.

    Beyond the Label: Kurt Schneider Transforms Education for Every Learner

    📣 Tune in to the latest episode of An Imperfect Leader 🎧 featuring Kurt A Schneider of TrueNorth Educational Cooperative 804 in Highland Park, Illinois. Dr. Schneider shares his insights on leading systemic transformation in education, emphasizing the importance of equity and inclusion for ALL learners. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation: *️⃣ Transformation requires a cultural shift, not just initiatives: Kurt highlights the need to move beyond temporary programs and embrace inclusive practices that benefit every student. *️⃣ Meaningful change takes time and patience: Kurt emphasizes that dismantling long-standing inequities is a gradual process. He encourages leaders to prioritize building strong relationships and understanding diverse perspectives. *️⃣ Every learner deserves to be valued and included: Kurt shares his district's journey of removing the label "special education" and embracing a mission of "every learner, every day." Don't miss this inspiring conversation on creating equitable and transformative learning experiences for all! 🎉   TWO ADDITIONAL RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE CONVERSATION: Rebranding Your School? Practical Approaches to Facilitating Sustainable Systemic Change ----- An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ At the end of every interview we have for teacher candidates, we say, “What questions do you have for us?” And they always ask, “What kind of support can I expect?” And we always say, “Don't worry, we'll give you a mentor.” That's where partners like EdConnective step in. They provide real coaching, observations and feedback with practice. EdConnective ensures that every student thrives by facilitating exceptional educator growth. If you're looking for support for your people, for your leaders, for science of reading efforts, for recruitment and retention initiatives, check out EdConnective.com. ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals and partners with school districts with a menu of options.  -------- An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly.

    1 h 1 min
  7. Unpacking the Science of Reading (and More!) with Kim Marshall and The Marshall Memo

    8 OCT.

    Unpacking the Science of Reading (and More!) with Kim Marshall and The Marshall Memo

    Join us for this week's episode of An Imperfect Leader featuring Kim Marshall, author and creator of The Marshall Memo. Kim has spent over 20 years curating the best research and ideas in education and distilling them into easily digestible summaries that have empowered countless educators. In this conversation, we discuss: The five levels of engagement with The Marshall Memo. Kim outlines how educators can use the Memo for individual learning, to facilitate team discussions, and even as a starting point for school-wide initiatives. The ongoing debate surrounding the "Science of Reading." Kim shares his perspective on this controversial topic, advocating for a balanced approach that encompasses phonics, background knowledge, comprehension skills, high-quality literature, and writing. The importance of embracing imperfection as a leader. Kim reflects on his own experiences as a school principal, acknowledging his missteps and highlighting the importance of continuous learning and growth. Listen to the full episode to gain valuable insights from Kim's vast experience in the field of education! ----- An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ At the end of every interview we have for teacher candidates, we say, “What questions do you have for us?” And they always ask, “What kind of support can I expect?” And we always say, “Don't worry, we'll give you a mentor.” That's where partners like EdConnective step in. They provide real coaching, observations and feedback with practice. EdConnective ensures that every student thrives by facilitating exceptional educator growth. If you're looking for support for your people, for your leaders, for science of reading efforts, for recruitment and retention initiatives, check out EdConnective.com. ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals and partners with school districts with a menu of options.  -------- An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly.

    56 min
  8. 1 OCT.

    In Cape (Girardeau), They're Leading Like a Buffalo

    In this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Dr. Howard Benyon, Superintendent of Cape Girardeau Public Schools in Missouri, and Dr. Brice Beck, Deputy Superintendent. These inspiring leaders share insights on: ✅ Making fearless, student-first decisions, especially when it comes to going #phone #free in their schools   ✅ The concept of "Buffalo Leadership" 🦬 – facing challenges head-on and together ✅ Building a strong, supportive culture for teachers and staff  ✅ Innovative retention strategies 🌟 ✅ Enhancing connectedness and belonging in the school community 🎧 Tune in to hear how Cape Girardeau is creating an environment where teachers feel valued and supported through professional development, non-evaluative learning, and some fantastic team-building (cookouts included 🍔🍴)! Check out the full episode now! #leadership #education #teachers #schoolculture #retention #professionaldevelopment Howard Benyon Brice Beck ----- An Imperfect Leader is sponsored by Yondr.  Schools around the world are seeing the damaging effects of phones on student engagement, social development, and mental health. Yondr has developed a unique product and program to allow schools to become phone-free, from arrival to dismissal. Learn why 1 Million Students use Yondr every day. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. MAXIMIZE LEARNING POTENTIAL. Go to overyondr.com to learn more.   ------ At the end of every interview we have for teacher candidates, we say, “What questions do you have for us?” And they always ask, “What kind of support can I expect?” And we always say, “Don't worry, we'll give you a mentor.” That's where partners like EdConnective step in. They provide real coaching, observations and feedback with practice. EdConnective ensures that every student thrives by facilitating exceptional educator growth. If you're looking for support for your people, for your leaders, for science of reading efforts, for recruitment and retention initiatives, check out EdConnective.com. ------ Imperfect Leaders! Are you facing challenges filling open Speech-Language Pathologist positions within your district? Empat Speech understands the critical need for qualified professionals and partners with school districts with a menu of options.  -------- An Imperfect Leader: Leadership in (After) Action is supported by ILAA, LLC, a firm dedicated to supporting aspiring, new, and established leaders. For more information, please find them at www.human-centeredleaders.com. Music for An Imperfect Leader was written and arranged by Ian Varley. Sam Falbo created our artwork, a wood-print inspired daruma doll butterfly.

    44 min
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À propos

Hello and welcome to An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, a series where leaders look back at decisions they made and ask themselves: * What happened? * What got overlooked? * What did you learn about relationships or what new relationships were formed? * What frustrated you? * What could you have done differently? * And in the end, what was something good that came out of the experience – because it is through our mistakes where our greatest learning takes place. I'm Peter Stiepleman. I'm your host AND I'm an imperfect leader. I spent more than 20 years teaching and leading, first in the Oakland Public Schools in Oakland, CA and then in the Midwest – Missouri, to be exact – where I was a teacher, a principal, an assistant superintendent and the superintendent of the 4th largest school district in a state of more than 500 districts. I am constantly striving to learn from my experiences and from the experiences of other leaders. The aim of this podcast is to lift the learning and lift the imperfect leaders up. That way, when you hear the term imperfect, you’ll see strength, strength from the candor needed to recognize imperfection as a real advantage. an imperfect leader, TLI, peter stiepleman, Dr. Peter Stiepleman, imperfect leaders, school culture, education, culture, school, positive school culture, principal, superintendent, aspiring superintendent, new superintendent, experienced superintendent, leadership, district leadership, school leadership, school leadership thoughts, inspiration, strategic planning, leadership development, human-centered leadership, collective aspiration, nested patterns, leaders’ learning work, educators, superintendent pipeline, Model for Human Centered School Transformation, transformation, podcast

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