Unlock 360

Wendy York Davoud

Welcome to Unlock 360 Podcast, where each episode unpacks the practices, partnerships, and people behind measurable gains in student outcomes. From building collaborative leadership cultures to designing equity-driven systems, you'll hear what happens when clarity, coherence, and coaching align. Whether you're a superintendent, campus leader, or classroom educator, Unlock 360 offers fresh insights, practical strategies, and an honest look at what it takes to create lasting impact. New episodes released biweekly.

  1. S.5 | Ep. 10: Creating Your Luck Through Leadership, Literacy, and Learning with Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh

    1d ago

    S.5 | Ep. 10: Creating Your Luck Through Leadership, Literacy, and Learning with Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh

    In this episode of Unlock 360, host Wendy York Davoud sits down with Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh, Superintendent of Jacksonville North Pulaski School District, to explore how strong leadership, continuous improvement, and a relentless focus on students are driving success across his district. Drawing from a career that spans classroom teaching, school leadership, state-level education leadership, and district administration, Dr. Owoh shares how his experiences have shaped his approach to building a learning organization where students, educators, and staff are constantly growing. He discusses the district’s ABC framework—Academics, Behavior, and Culture—and explains why kindness, student voice, and equitable opportunities are essential ingredients for improving outcomes. The conversation also dives into Jacksonville North Pulaski’s cycle of inquiry process, the importance of listening to students when making instructional decisions, and how the district uses data and feedback to continuously refine programs and interventions. Dr. Owoh highlights innovative literacy initiatives that extend learning beyond the classroom, including community partnerships that bring books into local businesses and public spaces. Key Moments05:10 Focusing on Academic and Behavior Basics 09:30 Fostering equity through community input 14:01 Issues with previous math program 16:47 Using action research in education 20:38 District leadership and student evaluations 23:30 Launching the Jacksonville Reads Program 28:59 Influential English teachers 32:08 Curriculum and Leadership Resources Why You’ll Love This EpisodeDr. Owoh offers a thoughtful and practical perspective on educational leadership, showing how student voice, continuous improvement, and a culture of learning can transform outcomes. His stories about literacy, leadership, and listening to students provide valuable lessons for educators at every level. Connect with Dr. Jeremy S. OwohWebsite: https://www.jnpsd.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-s-owoh-ed-d-9428b710 Email: jowoh@jnpsd.org  Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork Lead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.com Lead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

    35 min

  2. May 29

    S.5 | Ep. 9: Investing in People and Building Sustainable Leadership with Chris Calabrese

    Welcome to Season 5 of the Unlock 360 podcast by Lead.Teach.Learn.360! In this episode, Wendy York Davoud is joined by Chris Calabrese, Superintendent of Benicia Unified School District, for a conversation about leadership development, district sustainability, and the power of investing in people. Chris shares the unexpected story that led him into education and the personal motto that has guided his entire career: “Invest in people’s lives instead of their money.” From teacher to superintendent, Chris reflects on his K–12 leadership journey and how developing leaders remains one of the most meaningful parts of his work today. The conversation explores the realities of leading a district through change, including leadership transitions, declining enrollment, financial pressures, and the challenge of maintaining strong academic outcomes while supporting students socially and emotionally. Chris also discusses the importance of helping leaders think long term, creating sustainable systems, and balancing district-wide coherence with school-level autonomy. Listeners will also hear how Benicia Unified is working to strengthen collaboration, close achievement gaps, and preserve the unique culture that makes the Benicia community special. Key Moments02:52 Investing in People Instead of Positions 05:32 Supporting New Leaders Through Transition 06:47 Building Sustainable Long-Term Systems 07:22 Self-Awareness and Leadership Growth 09:37 Using 100-Day Plans for Leadership Success 13:25 Learning the Culture of Benicia Unified 16:11 Addressing Enrollment and Budget Challenges 17:45 Attracting Families Through Student Opportunities 18:13 Extracurriculars Strengthen School Culture 20:09 What Makes the Benicia Community Special 22:19 Balancing District Alignment and School Autonomy 26:55 Closing Achievement Gaps Through Collaboration 29:07 Expanding Academic Intervention Supports Why You Will Love This EpisodeThis episode offers an honest look at what it takes to lead with purpose during times of transition and uncertainty. Chris shares thoughtful insight on leadership development, strategic thinking, and creating sustainable systems that support both students and educators. District and school leaders alike will walk away with practical ideas around collaboration, culture, and long-term planning. Connect with Chris CalabreseWebsite: https://beniciaunified.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-calabrese-b46079268 Email: ccalabrese@beniciaunified.org Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

    31 min
  3. S.5 | Ep. 8: Building One District, Not a Collection of Schools with Jamie Bente

    May 15

    S.5 | Ep. 8: Building One District, Not a Collection of Schools with Jamie Bente

    In this episode, Wendy York Davoud sits down with Jamie Bente, Superintendent of Faribault Public Schools in Minnesota, to discuss district transformation, system coherence, and what it takes to unify schools around a shared vision. Since becoming superintendent in 2022, Jamie has led Faribault Public Schools through major organizational change, including district restructuring, strategic planning, and efforts to break down long-standing silos between campuses. Drawing on experience as a teacher, dean, assistant principal, principal, and now superintendent, Jamie shares the unique perspective he brings to district leadership and the lessons he has learned navigating change at scale. In this conversation, Jamie explains how Faribault shifted from operating like “multiple districts” into a more unified system focused on collaboration, consistency, and student-centered decision making. He also reflects on the importance of creating clear expectations through the district’s “playbook,” improving professional learning communities, and balancing autonomy with centralized systems. Key Moments04:36 Understanding district-wide education programs 07:34 Implementing district-wide systems 11:56 Evaluating teacher performance data 15:37 Improving early childhood education setup 17:57 Setting staff expectations 21:17 Updating our vision plans 22:59 Developing cross-grade teacher collaboration 27:53 First guest from Minnesota 32:21 Mentorship and career growth 33:17 Mentorship from Jason Wenschlag Why You Will Love This EpisodeIf you are leading system-wide change or working to create stronger alignment across schools, this episode offers practical insight into navigating restructuring, improving collaboration, and building a shared culture. Jamie’s honest reflections on leadership, communication, and organizational change provide valuable takeaways for superintendents, principals, and district leaders alike. Connect with Jamie BenteWebsite: https://www.faribault.k12.mn.us/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bente-59891493 Email: jbente@faribault.k12.mn.us Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time.Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

    34 min
  4. S.5 | Ep. 7: Leading with Equity, Culture, and the Whole Child with Dr. Theresa Rouse

    May 8

    S.5 | Ep. 7: Leading with Equity, Culture, and the Whole Child with Dr. Theresa Rouse

    In this episode, Wendy York Davoud sits down with Dr. Theresa Rouse, Superintendent of Joliet Public Schools District 86, to explore what it truly takes to move a district forward when it feels “stuck.” With over three decades in education and experience spanning classrooms, site leadership, and district roles across multiple states and even internationally, Dr. Rouse brings a powerful perspective on leadership, equity, and system transformation. In this conversation, she shares how Joliet began a deep equity journey—starting with examining internal beliefs and biases—and how that work has evolved into tangible changes in student outcomes, community perception, and district culture. From addressing achievement and discipline disparities to investing in early literacy, trauma-informed practices, and whole child development, this episode highlights how intentional leadership can reshape a system over time. Key Moments05:40 Embarking on an equity journey 09:37 Engaging with the community 13:08 Community literacy and early education 16:40 Supporting women in leadership roles 20:12 Committee involvement and coaching structure 23:49 Federal and state budget challenges 27:33 Community support and assistance programs 31:11 Supporting multilingual student families 32:44 Settling down in Joliet community 35:42 Connecting with an old friend 38:52 Mentorship impact and philosophy Why You Will Love This Episode If you are leading in a complex district environment, this episode offers a real-world look at how long-term change actually happens. Dr. Rouse doesn’t talk about quick wins—she shares what it takes to shift mindsets, systems, and outcomes over time. You will gain insight into leading equity work authentically, building strong community partnerships, and balancing academic priorities with the realities students bring to school every day. Connect with Dr. Theresa Rouse Website: https://www.joliet86.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresa-rouse-ed-d-bb65521a Email: trouse@joliet86.org Follow Us Wendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360° Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

    41 min
  5. S.5 | Ep. 6: Dr. Ryan D. Smith on Values-Driven Leadership and Future-Ready Systems

    Apr 3

    S.5 | Ep. 6: Dr. Ryan D. Smith on Values-Driven Leadership and Future-Ready Systems

    In this episode, Wendy York Davoud sits down with Dr. Ryan D. Smith, Deputy Superintendent of Bellflower Unified School District, to explore how districts can move beyond vision statements and build systems that truly reflect their core values. Dr. Smith shares his unique journey from a “lost” college freshman to a math teacher, coach, principal, superintendent, and now deputy superintendent, highlighting the mentors, risks, and pivotal moments that shaped his leadership path. The conversation centers on one critical idea: values only matter if they guide action. Ryan breaks down how Bellflower USD is re-engaging its community to define mission, vision, and values—and more importantly, how they are translating those into measurable student outcomes through a learner profile. From building a guiding coalition of diverse stakeholders to rethinking hiring practices with AI, this episode offers a practical look at what it takes to align systems with purpose. Key Moments 05:21 Turning around Leuzinger High School 07:25 Switching from teaching to business 10:01 Ryan's early career and engagement 14:14 Defining mission, vision, and values 17:57 Navigating conflict with core values 21:29 Creating a learner profile framework 26:28 Challenges of personalized education 29:58 Using AI to screen candidates 31:02 Using AI in hiring Why You Will Love This Episode If you are working to align your district’s vision with real classroom impact, this episode delivers both inspiration and clarity. Dr. Ryan D. Smith shares how to turn abstract ideas like “innovation” and “collaboration” into measurable outcomes—and how to build systems that actually support them. You will walk away with practical insight on leading values-driven change, engaging your community in meaningful ways, and preparing students for a future that is still unfolding. Connect with Dr. Ryan D. SmithWebsite: https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryandsmithedd Email: ryansmith@busd.k12.ca.us Articles & Additional Info: https://www.ryandsmithedd.com/  Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

    37 min
  6. S.5 | Ep. 5: Focusing on What Matters: Jim DuBois Explains Strategic Planning in Education

    Apr 1

    S.5 | Ep. 5: Focusing on What Matters: Jim DuBois Explains Strategic Planning in Education

    In this episode, Wendy York Davoud sits down with Jim DuBois, Superintendent of Goshen Community Schools in Indiana, to explore how disciplined execution, strategic clarity, and whole-child support systems can transform district outcomes. Jim shares his journey from educator to superintendent, including his return from retirement to lead a district navigating community tension, financial constraints, and the need for a clear path forward. Through a focus on strategic planning, simplified priorities, and consistent execution, he has helped bring stability, trust, and momentum back to the district. The conversation dives deep into Jim’s leadership philosophy, centered on doing fewer things better, and his commitment to building systems that support every student. From the “ABCs” framework (Attendance, Behavior, Course Performance) to innovative interventions like cognitive training labs, Jim highlights how districts can move beyond surface-level solutions and address the root causes of student challenges. Key Moments 05:14 Strategic Planning Success 09:05 ABC: Attendance, Behavior, Courses 11:50 Embedding PBIS into Culture 15:07 Strategic Planning Drives School Success 18:18 Supporting Academic and Emotional Struggles 22:22 Supporting Learning Through SOIIPP 23:40 Cognitive Training for Learning Success 28:08 Addressing Cognitive and Sensory Delays 32:36 Stamina, Focus, and Sensory Integration 34:16 Opposite Direction Training Explained 37:44 Educational Innovation Boosts IQ 41:16 Calming Kids Through Sensory Tools 43:52 Personalized Cognitive Skill Workbooks Why You Will Love This Episode If you are working to bring clarity and focus to your district or school, this episode offers a powerful blueprint. Jim DuBois breaks down how to move from scattered initiatives to a cohesive system that actually delivers results. You will gain insight into building sustainable improvement through execution, not overload, and learn how addressing the whole child—academically, socially, and cognitively—can unlock growth for students who are often left behind. This is a must-listen for leaders who want practical strategies grounded in real district experience. Connect with Jim DuBoisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-dubois-a65b3127 Website: https://www.goshenschools.org/ Email: jim.dubois@goshenschools.org  Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

    48 min
  7. S.5 | Ep. 4: From Management to Meaning—Rhett Ladner on Culture, Connection, and Real Results

    Mar 25

    S.5 | Ep. 4: From Management to Meaning—Rhett Ladner on Culture, Connection, and Real Results

    In this episode, Wendy York Davoud sits down with Rhett Ladner, Superintendent of Hancock County School District in Mississippi, to explore a leadership journey that redefines what it means to truly lead. With over three decades in education, Rhett shares how he moved from a results-driven, management-focused approach to one centered on relationships, culture, and purpose, and how that shift transformed both his leadership and his district. Together, Wendy and Rhett dive into the power of Jostens Renaissance and the “6 Rs” framework, showing how intentional culture-building—respect, reward, recognition, reinforcement, relationships, and results can drive measurable outcomes in student achievement, attendance, and staff retention. Rhett also shares candid reflections on leadership missteps, the importance of listening to students and staff, and how creating a sense of belonging for both learners and “staffulty” can unlock performance at every level. Key Moments 04:30 Progress Beyond the Boxes 07:14 Learning Leadership Through Connection 09:30 Changing Paths to Make Impact 13:05 School Culture and 6 Rs 18:03 Launching Renaissance Leadership Program 19:11 Transforming School Culture 22:44 Graduation Flash Mob Fiasco 26:50 Leadership Challenges and Growth 31:27 Teacher PLC Scheduling Oversight 35:20 Balancing Boxes for Growth 36:49 Leadership Team Tackles Education Reform 40:29 Core Values Drive Decisions 44:36 Finding Your Perfect Home Why You Will Love This Episode This episode is both deeply human and highly practical. Rhett Ladner offers an honest look at what happens when leaders chase results without connection—and what becomes possible when they shift to building culture first. You will walk away with a clear framework for improving school climate, real examples of how culture impacts measurable outcomes, and a reminder that leadership is ultimately about people, not programs. If you are working to increase engagement, retention, and achievement without losing your purpose, this conversation will resonate deeply. Connect with Rhett LadnerWebsite: https://www.hancockschools.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhett-ladner-a0b643199 Email: rladner@hancockschools.net  Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

    49 min
  8. S.5 | Ep. 3: Leading for Student Success with Dr. Keana Daughtry — Systems, Change, and Impact

    Mar 13

    S.5 | Ep. 3: Leading for Student Success with Dr. Keana Daughtry — Systems, Change, and Impact

    In this episode, Wendy York Davoud sits down with Dr. Keana Daughtry, Chief Academic Officer of Everman Independent School District, to explore what it really takes to strengthen instruction at scale. Dr. Daughtry shares her powerful journey from student learning struggles to reading specialist, turnaround principal, Region 11 leadership coach, and now district academic leader, always anchored in one core belief: she is still a teacher at heart. Together, Wendy and Dr. Daughtry dive into systems development and change management as the true work behind sustainable improvement. You will hear practical insights on how Everman ISD is tightening Tier 1 instruction through high-quality instructional materials (HQIM), intentional PLC internalization, and coaching-driven leadership support. Dr. Daughtry also breaks down a clear, actionable change management framework that helps leaders diagnose what is missing when adults feel frustrated, anxious, or resistant, so change can be done with people, not to them. Key Moments 03:21 Education Leadership and Systems Thinking 08:49 Surprising Similarities in Leadership 11:00 Embracing Change Management Leadership 14:11 Rethinking Resource Management in Education 15:58 Managing Change with Action Plan 19:05 Building Relationships, Embracing New Opportunities 25:08 Improving PLCs and Instruction Quality 28:34 Strengthening Tier 1 Instruction 30:40 Challenges of Legislative Impact 34:30 Recruitment Challenges in Education 36:14 Born, Raised, Educator's Journey Why You Will Love This Episode This is a systems-and-people episode in the best way. Dr. Daughtry brings a rare mix of lived experience (as a student who struggled), deep instructional expertise (reading + curriculum), and real-world leadership practice (turnaround + coaching + district systems). You will walk away with a clear change management lens for diagnosing what is actually happening when implementation stalls, plus practical examples of how Everman ISD is strengthening Tier 1 instruction through HQIM, internalization-focused PLCs, and campus leader coaching. If you are working to improve learning outcomes without burning people out, this conversation will give you both clarity and momentum. Connect with Dr. Keana DaughtryWebsite: https://www.eisd.org/ Email: kdaughtry@eisd.org  Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

    42 min
See All (36)

About

Welcome to Unlock 360 Podcast, where each episode unpacks the practices, partnerships, and people behind measurable gains in student outcomes. From building collaborative leadership cultures to designing equity-driven systems, you'll hear what happens when clarity, coherence, and coaching align. Whether you're a superintendent, campus leader, or classroom educator, Unlock 360 offers fresh insights, practical strategies, and an honest look at what it takes to create lasting impact. New episodes released biweekly.

Information

  • Creator
    Wendy York Davoud
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    36
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Wendy York Davoud
  • Show Website
    Unlock 360