Becoming Principal: The Podcast

JD Prickett

Telling your leadership story of "Becoming"

  1. 02/14/2025

    Damien Aherne... on Becoming Principal

    In this episode of the Becoming Principal Podcast, host Dr. Jeffry Prickett speaks with Damien Aherne, a passionate educator and principal. They discuss Damien's journey from Ireland to the U.S., his love for music, and how it shaped his teaching career. Damien shares insights on the challenges he faced growing up, the pivotal moments that led him to become a principal, and the importance of building connections with students. The conversation highlights the intersection of teaching and leadership, emphasizing the impact educators can have on their students' lives.

    26 min

  2. 01/27/2025

    Dr. Brett Bending... on Becoming Principal

    In this conversation, Brett Bending shares his unexpected journey from high school education to elementary, highlighting the importance of mentorship, the impact of coaches, and the significance of embracing change in one's career. He reflects on the influences of family and early experiences that shaped his path, the challenges and rewards of leadership, and the continuous growth that comes from building a toolkit of skills and experiences.

    31 min

  3. 01/04/2025

    Angela Williams... On Becoming Principal

    In this episode of the Becoming Principal podcast, Angela Williams - Special Education Administrator in Elgin School District U46 in Elgin, Illinois & author of the "Leadership Lemons" on LinkedIn - shares her journey from a young girl playing school to becoming a special education administrator. She discusses the influences that shaped her career, including her parents' support and key mentors who encouraged her to pursue leadership roles. Angela reflects on the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, pivotal life moments that changed her perspective, and the importance of mentorship in education. She emphasizes the need for more leaders in the field and the significant role principals play in shaping school culture and student experiences.

    25 min

  4. 12/30/2024

    Brandi Kelly... On Becoming Principal

    In this episode of the Becoming Principal podcast, Dr. Jeffry Prickett interviews Brandi Kelly, the superintendent of Mount Olive School District, in Mt. Olive , Illinois. They discuss Brandi's childhood, her early influences, and the impact of trauma on her career choices. Brandi shares her journey from wanting to be a nurse to becoming a school social worker and eventually a principal. The conversation highlights the importance of relationships, career awareness in education, and the process of writing her book 'Lead with Hope.' Brandi reflects on her experiences and the continuous journey of becoming who we are meant to be.

    25 min

  5. 12/22/2024

    Vail Kieser... On Becoming Principal

    Summary In this episode, Dr. Jeffry Prickett interviews Vail Kieser, the Director of Teaching and Learning at Lake Forest District 67, here in Lake Forest, IL. They discuss Vail's journey from a passion for music and theater to a career in education and leadership. Vail shares the significant influences in her life, including her family and mentors, and reflects on the importance of seizing opportunities and supporting others in their growth. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of leadership in education, the importance of creating a positive environment, and the ongoing journey of personal and professional development.

    30 min

  6. 11/30/2024

    Principal Marc Spacone... on Becoming Principal: The Podcast

    Summary In this episode of the Becoming Principal podcast, Marc Spacone shares his journey from childhood to becoming the principal of Larson Middle School. He reflects on the profound influence of his immigrant father, the importance of perseverance, and the role of mentorship in shaping his career. Marc emphasizes the significance of removing barriers for students and fostering connections within the school community. He discusses the impact of leadership and the necessity of being approachable as a principal, drawing from his own experiences and the lessons learned along the way.

    30 min

  7. 11/17/2024

    Kevin O'Connor... On Becoming Principal

    On this episode, Kevin O’Connor joins me to tell his leadership journey. From growing up above his family’s funeral home, to leaving a lasting legacy as principal of an elementary school he led for 18 years, Kevin and I learned we have a lot in common, including growing up in the same town… join me as we learn from Kevin O’Connor. On Becoming Principal.

    28 min

  8. 11/08/2024

    Renaldo Francis... on Becoming Principal

    Renaldo Francis - AP of Instruction at IDEA Public Schools, out of the Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas area, sits down to share his leadership journey. On Becoming Principal.

    32 min
See All (29)

4.8
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Telling your leadership story of "Becoming"

Information