The School Leadership Show

Dr. Mike Doughty & Jenn David-Lang
  • 4.7 (60)
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The School Leadership Show

This is the School Leadership Show. Learn everything you need to know to thrive in school administration. The School leadership show is where ordinary school administrators become extraordinary leaders. The only podcast dedicated to helping practicing and aspiring school leaders realize their potential, advance their careers, and achieve work-life balance, The School Leadership Show brings together the greatest minds from inside and outside of education to deliver you the insights and tools you need to succeed in school leadership.

  1. 11H AGO

    135 S9 E10: Bridging the Implementation Gap in Education

    In this episode, Jenn David-Lang interviews Jenice Pizzuto and Steven Carney about their book Implement with IMPACT: A Strategic Framework for Leading School and District Initiatives. The discussion focuses on their strategic framework for effectively implementing school and district initiatives using research-based practices. They emphasize the importance of including stakeholders, meticulous planning, professional learning, and a human-centered approach to change. The conversation highlights the common pitfalls in implementation, particularly the often-skipped "plan and prepare" stage, and offers actionable insights for educators and leaders looking to close the gap between knowledge and practice. They also introduce their acronym 'IMPACT' as a guide for keeping the human elements in mind during implementation. If you want to learn more, Steven Carney will be doing a workshop on how to make your initiatives and changes go well on September 17, 2025 free for subscribers to THE MAIN IDEA. Consider becoming a subscriber: TheMainIdea.net Additionally, if you're deeply committed to your school's initiatives and want to truly make an IMPACT, tune in to understand the science behind successful implementation and how to apply it in your setting! Jenice Pizzuto's website: https://www.impactleadsucceed.com/ Steven Carney's website: https://www.impactlearnandlead.com/ If you have questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes—including great non-education books with lessons for school leaders—email us at Dr.mike.doughty@gmail.com. Please consider leaving a rating and review on Spotify or iTunes to support the show. Every bit helps! And if you found this episode helpful, share it with your colleagues. Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Contact Mike directly at Dr.mike.doughty@gmail.com. To explore insightful summaries of top leadership books, connect with Jenn David-Lang at Jenn@TheMainIdea.net or visit TheMainIdea.net.

    40 min
  2. 134 S9 E9 How Principals Can Elevate Instructional Impact with Principal Kafele

    JUN 25

    134 S9 E9 How Principals Can Elevate Instructional Impact with Principal Kafele

    In this episode, Jenn David-Lang sits down with renowned educator and turnaround Principal Kafele to discuss his latest—and most personally significant—book: “What Is My Value Instructionally to the Teachers I Supervise?” This conversation zeroes in on the principal’s role as an instructional leader. Principal Kafele makes it clear that the core focus of his message—and his latest book—is on how and why principals themselves must strengthen and own their role as instructional leaders. What You’ll Learn: • Why the principal must lead instructionally • How self-reflection can transform your leadership practice • The 4 levels of reflection: Self-Reflection, Self-Assessment, Self-Adjustment, Self-Improvement • How your school culture either enables or prevents instructional leadership • Why now—at the end of the school year—is the best time to reflect deeply on your role as instructional leader This episode is a powerful call to action for principals to ask the right questions, assess their impact, and return with greater clarity and purpose next year. Learn more about Principal Kafele and his work: principalkafele.com If you have questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes—including great non-education books with lessons for school leaders—email us at Dr.mike.doughty@gmail.com. Please consider leaving a rating and review on Spotify or iTunes to support the show. Every bit helps! And if you found this episode helpful, share it with your colleagues. Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Contact Mike directly at Dr.mike.doughty@gmail.com. To learn more about Jenn's insightful book summaries and work, reach out at Jenn@TheMainIdea.net or visit TheMainIdea.net.

    45 min

  3. JUN 10

    133 S9 E8 Rigor Redefined: Unpacking the Myths of Hard Work and Hierarchy

    In this episode, Jenn David-Lang took the reins and had a fascinating conversation with Michael McDowell, author of Rigor Redefined: 10 Teaching Habits for Surface, Deep, and Transfer Learning. Listen to the podcast to hear how Michael challenges our traditional understanding of rigor. Apparently, rigor isn't just about things being "hard" or doing a lot of work quickly. Instead, it's defined as a balance between surface, deep, and transfer learning, and importantly, it's a taxonomy, not a hierarchy. This means you don't have to master knowing facts (surface) before you can relate ideas (deep) or apply learning to new situations (transfer). Jenn and Michael also discussed how this balanced approach can and should be accessible to all students, not just those in advanced classes. A key takeaway seems to be that embedding rigor consistently is about implementing small, doable routines in our daily practice. They even shared examples of routines for fostering deep (like a three-able turn and talk) and transfer learning (like "spot the difference" problems). I'm particularly interested in the advice on how leaders can observe for rigor, focusing on what students are actually doing and saying. Are you rethinking what rigor looks like in your classroom or school? Listen to this episode to learn more about redefining rigor and discover practical habits you can implement today! To learn more about Michael McDowell's work and services, visit his website: hingeeducation.org. If you have questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes—including great non-education books with lessons for school leaders—email us at Dr.mike.doughty@gmail.com. Please consider leaving a rating and review on Spotify or iTunes to support the show. Every bit helps! And if you found this episode helpful, share it with your colleagues. Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Contact Mike directly at Dr.mike.doughty@gmail.com. To learn more about Jenn's insightful book summaries and work, reach out at Jenn@TheMainIdea.net or visit TheMainIdea.net.

    44 min
  4. 132 S9 E7 Don't Let Them Drown: Practical Support for First-Year Teachers

    MAY 24

    132 S9 E7 Don't Let Them Drown: Practical Support for First-Year Teachers

    In this episode, I'm incredibly excited to be joined by two amazing people: my fantastic co-host, Jenn David-Lang, who's also stepping in as a guest today, and the one and only Kim Marshall! We're diving into a topic that feels more important than ever right now: supporting new teachers. It's something I'm seeing firsthand as my daughter navigates her first year teaching, and believe me, it's a challenge. That's why we're shining a spotlight on the brand-new, absolutely invaluable section on the bestofmarshallmemo.org website. Jenn and Kim have curated the most powerful, practical insights from thousands of articles specifically to help new educators, and the best part? It's all available for free! We get into the nitty-gritty of what new teachers really need to succeed. We discuss everything from crucial steps like onboarding and thoughtful scheduling to helping new teachers build resilience, tackle tough classroom management situations, and the vital role of teacher teams in combating isolation. My biggest hope is that the resources we discuss will help these dedicated new teachers, who face such immense challenges, not just get through their first years, but truly thrive and make a lasting career in this essential profession. Don't miss this conversation—and seriously, go check out the free resources at bestofmarshallmemo.org! Thank you for tuning in! If you have questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes—including great non-education books with lessons for school leaders—email us at Dr.mike.doughty@gmail.com. Please consider leaving a rating and review on Spotify or iTunes to support the show. Every bit helps! And if you found this episode helpful, share it with your colleagues. Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Contact Mike directly at Dr.mike.doughty@gmail.com. To explore insightful summaries of top leadership books, connect with Jenn David-Lang at Jenn@TheMainIdea.net or visit TheMainIdea.net.

    35 min
  5. 131 S9 E6 Unlocking Educator Joy: Pathways and Permission

    MAY 10

    131 S9 E6 Unlocking Educator Joy: Pathways and Permission

    In this episode, Jenn and I are thrilled to welcome William Parker! A longtime educator from Oklahoma who transitioned into full-time consulting, speaking, and writing, Will is the author of "Messaging Matters" and his new book, "Whose Permission Are You Waiting For?: An Educator's Guide to Doing What You Love" Will shares how his new book, born from coaching conversations with high-achieving leaders at crossroads, is designed to help educators think through career options, get out of ruts, and reconnect with their joy. We dive into key concepts from the book, including: • Avoiding the Binary: Why you don't always have just two options and how to explore multiple pathways. • The Power of Curiosity and Inquiry: How asking questions and reaching out to experts leads to discovery. • Idea to Action: Moving from thinking to doing with intentionality and achievable goals. • Goal Setting and Reflection: The importance of looking back to learn and setting goals for the future across all parts of your life. • Whose Permission Are You Waiting For?: Identifying yourself as your biggest obstacle and realizing you often only need your own permission to take the next step towards what you want. • Figuring Out What You Want: Practical exercises like the 'Doing, Not Doing, Want to Do, Don't Want to Do' framework. Join us to explore how to give yourself permission to dream, inquire, and rediscover the joy of learning in your career. Also, don't forget to tune in to William's podcast, Principal Matters. It’s packed with practical tips and inspiration for school leaders. As always, send your comments, questions, and show ideas to mike@schoolleadershipshow.com. Consider rating the podcast in iTunes and leaving a comment.  And please pass the show along to your colleagues. Additionally, if you have other non-education books with implications for school leaders, send those suggestions our way, too. And finally, If you or someone you know would like to sponsor the show, send Mike an email at mike@schoolleadershipshow.com.

    44 min
  6. 130 S9 E5 Don't leave teacher induction up to chance.

    APR 8

    130 S9 E5 Don't leave teacher induction up to chance.

    In this episode, Jenn has a conversation with one of the educators who was featured prominently in Harry and Rosemary Wong's latest book, THE New Teacher Induction Book: How to Recruit, Train, and Retain New Teachers. Tara Link is a leader who started an induction program 18 years ago in Moberly, Missouri. She joined Jenn to talk about Rosemary and Harry Wong's latest book, and she had so many useful tips to share. Unfortunately, while we are losing a number of our new and newer teachers, we are also not doing as good of a job of supporting our new teachers as well. About 50% of all new teachers receive no induction at all. Tara shared some of the problems our new teachers face. Sometimes they don't receive anything more than a welcome and then the rest of their new teacher support is left up to chance. They also struggle with a whole new generation of classroom management issues that may have looked different in the past. Plus, newer teachers are increasingly coming through alternative certification routes so they may not have had enough training.  Tara really emphasized the importance of DIFFERENTIATING the support we provide to new teachers and being extremely CLEAR. We discussed THREE KEY COMPONENTS of an effective new teacher support system that the Wongs outlined in their book: 1. COLLABORATION New teachers need to connect with a wide range of the people they plan to work with and need to feel they are part of something bigger than themselves. This connects to purpose and our Gen-Z teachers are particularly feeling the need to connect to their purpose. 2. PD TAILORED TO THE NEEDS OF NEW TEACHERS We need to provide new teachers with PD on the basics -- classroom management, lesson design -- and not just jump into training them on the latest fad. As leaders we also need to continually model for new teachers. Be the model of what you want them to be. 3. A COMPREHENSIVE, MULTI-YEAR APPROACH We need to do much more with our new teachers than have them come a day or two before the rest of the staff. Tara developed a model program S.H.I.N.E. (Supporting, Helping, and Inspiring New Educators) that lasts two full years. She shares some successful elements of her program but encourages you to ask your experienced teachers what was helpful in supporting them and look around at your own resources to see how you can use them to support new teachers.  Where to start? Tara recommends just choosing ONE system of support. Choose something you are already doing well and plus-one it, that is, add to what you're already doing well. RESOURCES • THE New Teacher Induction Book: How to Recruit, Train, and Retain New Teachers by Harry and Rosemary Wong (and Jenn's summary for The Main Idea is out in April) • Tara Link's latest book, Teacher Induction that Works: A Lasting Impact from Day One. As always, send your comments, questions, and show ideas to mike@schoolleadershipshow.com. Consider rating the podcast in iTunes and leaving a comment.  And please pass the show along to your colleagues. Additionally, if you have other non-education books with implications for school leaders, send those suggestions our way, too. And finally, If you or someone you know would like to sponsor the show, send Mike an email at mike@schoolleadershipshow.com.

    45 min
  7. 129 S9 E4 S.H.I.N.E Bright: Empowering Women Leaders with LaVonna Roth

    MAR 21

    129 S9 E4 S.H.I.N.E Bright: Empowering Women Leaders with LaVonna Roth

    March is Women’s History Month! This episode features a conversation with LaVonna Roth, an inspirational speaker and consultant whose work has inspired women leaders everywhere. Jenn introduced LaVonna, highlighting her impactful speaking on leadership. LaVonna shared her "S.H.I.N.E." framework, initially for students but powerfully applicable to adults and leaders. SHINE represents Self, Heart, Inspire, Navigate, and Exceptional, focusing on strengths, passion, inspiration, action, and becoming your best self. We explored how this framework resonates with all leaders because of its human-centered approach. LaVonna shared her journey of growth and emphasized the importance of focusing on strengths over weaknesses and overcoming imposter syndrome by recognizing one's inherent value. She offered practical advice related to self-reflection on one's abilities and letting go of perfectionism. We also discussed creating supportive cultures where leaders uplift others, referencing the idea of a "Firefly Effect," where collective support leads to greater success. LaVonna encouraged leaders to be open, collaborative, and to recognize and nurture the strengths of those around them. You can find more about LaVonna and her work at igniteyoushine.com. As always, send your comments, questions, and show ideas to mike@schoolleadershipshow.com. Consider rating the podcast in iTunes and leaving a comment.  And please pass the show along to your colleagues. Additionally, if you have other non-education books with implications for school leaders, send those suggestions our way, too. And finally, If you or someone you know would like to sponsor the show, send Mike an email at mike@schoolleadershipshow.com.

    43 min
  8. 128 S9 E3 Are you REALLY ready to respond in an emergency?

    MAR 11

    128 S9 E3 Are you REALLY ready to respond in an emergency?

    Responding to emergencies takes two things: leadership and communication. Are you prepared? Mike and Jenn had a truly productive conversation with school preparedness expert, Chris Joffe. He talked about everything from why leaders need to start with themselves and understand how THEY respond to emergencies. He also shared that one of the essential keys is having an emergency org chart and teams to deal with the wide range of emergencies your school might have. Throughout it all, Chris emphasized that humans and relationships are key. Why? Because “emergencies require people to respond.” Unfortunately, his data shows that the vast majority of emergencies are an escalation of an event – an incident in school that leads to fights, weapons, or even worse, a school shooting. To learn more about Chris and the services Joffe Emergencies provides for school: https://www.joffeemergencyservices.com/ Chris has offered to do a free workshop for subscribers to THE MAIN IDEA on the emergency preparedness stuff you won’t find in the district handbook – it will be April 7 at 4pm ET / 1pm PT – sign up here (https://forms.gle/TSStmwiAo8jkSmvn7 ) or reach out to me at Jenn@TheMainIdea.net As always, send your comments, questions, and show ideas to mike@schoolleadershipshow.com. Consider rating the podcast in iTunes and leaving a comment.  And please pass the show along to your colleagues. Additionally, if you have other non-education books with implications for school leaders, send those suggestions our way, too. And finally, If you or someone you know would like to sponsor the show, send Mike an email at mike@schoolleadershipshow.com.

    43 min
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4.7
out of 5
60 Ratings

About

This is the School Leadership Show. Learn everything you need to know to thrive in school administration. The School leadership show is where ordinary school administrators become extraordinary leaders. The only podcast dedicated to helping practicing and aspiring school leaders realize their potential, advance their careers, and achieve work-life balance, The School Leadership Show brings together the greatest minds from inside and outside of education to deliver you the insights and tools you need to succeed in school leadership.

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