2Principals Podcast

2P65: Promoting Positive Mental Health in the Workplace

In this episode, Jason and Kevin,  delve into the topic of workplace wellness and promoting positive mental health for school leaders, educators, and staff members. They discuss the importance of prioritizing mental well-being in the educational environment and share insights, strategies, and expert advice to foster a positive and supportive work culture.
Key Points:
The Impact of Mental Health on Productivity and Well-being:
Statistics highlighting the significant financial and productivity costs associated with mental health issues in the workplace.
The prevalence of stress, anxiety, and mental health conditions among employees.
Barriers to Promoting Positive Mental Health in Schools:
Lack of resources (funding, training programs, mental health support services)
Stigma surrounding mental health issues
Time constraints and busy schedules
Resistance to change and implementing new policies or programs
Positive Impacts of Promoting Positive Mental Health:
Improved well-being and job satisfaction
Enhanced leadership skills and better relationships with staff
Increased productivity and overall performance
Negative Impacts of Neglecting Mental Health:
Burnout and decreased morale
Physical health issues (chronic stress, insomnia, fatigue, weakened immune system)
Practical Strategies for School Principals:
Lead by example: Prioritize your own mental health and work-life integration
Create a supportive work environment: Promote open communication and provide mental health resources
Offer professional development opportunities on mental health awareness and stress management
Encourage work-life integration and implement wellness programs
Promote positive communication and constructive feedback
The 2P Mental Health Minute:
Prioritize your own mental health to effectively lead and support others
Practice intentional self-care and set boundaries
Foster a supportive culture that values mental health and well-being
Jason and Kevin emphasize the crucial role school principals play in creating a healthy and productive work environment by prioritizing mental health and well-being. They encourage listeners to take care of themselves, seek support when needed, and implement practical strategies to promote positive mental health in their school communities.

2P64: Navigating the March Maze

Show Notes:
In this episode, we explore the dynamic landscape of school operations in the month of March and discuss key responsibilities and strategies for principals during this busy time.
Topics covered:
Finalizing testing schedules, locations, proctoring, and accommodations
Scheduling for next year - classes, staffing, collaboration with departments
Preparing for year-end activities - commencement, senior events, transitions
Managing the hiring process - building culture, relationships, hiring the right fit
Handling non-renewal of staff members - documentation, tough conversations
Prioritizing principal self-care - boundaries, sleep, support systems
Fostering positive school culture - empowering student voice, growth mindset, shared values
Engaging in professional development - visibility, reflecting on practices
Key Takeaways:
Principals wear many hats - stay organized, delegate tasks, communicate clearly
Invest time in developing and supporting teachers, especially new hires
Document everything related to teacher evaluations and performance
Communicate early and often with graduating seniors
Reflect on leadership practices; seek feedback; focus on continuous growth
Don't forget to take care of yourself amidst the daily demands
Build positive relationships and connections with all stakeholders
We hope these insights help principals strategically navigate the busy month of March and lead schools successfully! Let us know what resonates with you.

2P63: Ticking Away, Effective Time Management Strategies for School Principals

Show Notes:
In this episode, Jason and Kevin discuss the importance of time management for school principals and share practical strategies to help enhance productivity and leadership effectiveness.
Key topics covered:
The challenges principals face related to time constraints and heavy workloads
Barriers that hinder effective time management like lack of prioritization, distractions, overload of responsibilities
Positive impacts of good time management - enhanced productivity, better decision making, reduced stress
Negative consequences of poor time management - feelings of burnout, strained relationships, stagnation
Practical time management tips: prioritizing tasks, creating schedules, delegating, setting weekly goals, limiting distractions, regular self-reflection
The need to continuously refine your approach to time management as a lifelong process
Remembering to prioritize self-care and wellbeing alongside your work
The episode title "Time is Ticking" references the constant passage of time and the need to use it wisely. The song "Time of Your Life" by Green Day sets a nostalgic tone about cherishing moments in your life and making the most of your time.
Jason and Kevin aim to provide principals with actionable tips to master time management, reduce stress, fulfill their responsibilities efficiently, and enhance their leadership capabilities overall. Thanks for joining us today as we tackle this important topic! 

2P62: Cultivating Gratitude with Lainie Rowell

In this interview with author and educator Lainie Rowell, Jason and Kevin explore the transformative power of practicing gratitude. Lainie shares insights from her personal experience with gratitude, along with practical strategies anyone can use.
Lainie begins by highlighting some of the scientifically-proven benefits of gratitude. Studies show that consistently expressing gratitude improves measures of wellbeing, strengthens relationships, and even activates learning in the brain. By training our minds to actively notice the good around us, gratitude shifts us away from the brain's natural negativity bias.
Small, consistent actions are more important than dramatic gestures when building a gratitude practice. Lainie suggests trying different methods to see what works best for your lifestyle, from journaling to voice memos or simply having gratitude-focused conversations. The key is consistency, not intensity. Tiny daily gratitude habits compound over time.
Cultivating gratitude helps people become more present, mindful, and intentional. Lainie notes how gratitude is an antidote to the busy, distracted modes of "overfunctioning" and burnout that pervade modern life and lead to poor health outcomes. Gratitude's power to center us in the moment facilitates rest, reflection, and connection.
For leaders and teachers, Lainie stresses the importance of ensuring everyone feels recognized for their value. It's easy to only notice those who demand attention, while overlooking people who quietly do good work. Go out of your way to see, hear, and appreciate those who don't put themselves in the spotlight.
Skeptical listeners may doubt gratitude's effectiveness. Lainie suggests a simple exercise - reflect on all the tiny joys you took for granted before the pandemic, from handshakes with strangers to full shelves at the store. This illuminates the abundance we overlook when we aren't practiced in gratitude.
Where you can find Lainie:
Instagram
Twitter
Website

2P61: Leading with the Heart

February is American Heart Month, so this episode of the 2Principals Podcast focuses on the importance of heart health for school principals and leaders. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S., with someone dying from it every 36 seconds. The demanding and stressful role of a principal can negatively impact heart health if leaders are not careful. It's crucial for principals to prioritize self-care.
The episode discusses common risk factors for heart disease that principals should be aware of, including a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, chronic stress, and diabetes. A healthy heart enables principals to have the energy, stamina, and mental acuity to lead schools effectively. It also sets a positive wellness example. The hosts share both the positive impacts, like improved wellbeing, increased energy and focus, and role modeling healthy behaviors, as well as the negative impacts, like added pressure, time constraints, and neglecting health, of focusing on heart health.
The episode provides practical strategies for principals to implement to improve their heart health, including regular exercise, improved nutrition, stress management techniques, health checkups, work-life integration, stopping tobacco use, and seeking support. The key message is that principals must make self-care a priority in order to be sustainable, effective leaders long-term. They should lead by example and keep their hearts healthy!
Key Points:
Heart disease is the #1 cause of death in the U.S. The high demands of a principal can negatively impact heart health.
Principals should be aware of common risk factors for heart disease and take preventative measures.
Prioritizing heart health leads to positive impacts like increased energy, better focus, and role modeling wellness behaviors.
Practical strategies include adding exercise, eating healthier, managing stress, getting checkups, integrating work and life, and seeking support.
Taking care of your heart health allows principals to lead sustainably and effectively for the long haul. Set the example and stay heart healthy!

2P60: Navigating the Principalship in the Month of February

In the dynamic realm of school leadership this February, principals are immersed in a multifaceted array of responsibilities. First and foremost, they are diligently preparing for state testing, a pivotal task that sets the academic tone for the upcoming months. Simultaneously, meticulous attention is devoted to reviewing the master schedule, a complex choreography that orchestrates the daily rhythm of the school. In the spirit of inclusivity, educators are exploring strategies to seamlessly integrate and celebrate Black History Month, fostering a meaningful and enriching experience for all. National School Counselor Week takes center stage, underscoring the critical importance of honoring and expressing gratitude for the invaluable contributions of school counselors. Addressing the intricate dance of constructing the master schedule, principals are armed with insightful tips to navigate its complexities successfully.
Moreover, February is earmarked as a time for cultivating a positive school culture and climate. Principals are steering their institutions towards inclusivity, kindness, collaboration, and reflection, fostering an environment that nurtures both academic and interpersonal growth. This holistic approach extends to prioritizing mental health and wellness for school leaders themselves, recognizing the indispensable role they play. Concrete strategies are thoughtfully provided, equipping principals with tools to navigate the demanding terrain of educational leadership. As this transformative month unfolds, the interconnected threads of academic prowess, cultural celebration, staff appreciation, and mental well-being are woven into the fabric of educational leadership, ensuring a harmonious and productive school environment.
Key Points:
February brings many important tasks for principals, including preparing logistics for state testing, finalizing the master schedule, planning upcoming spring events, and more. Stay organized and communicate clearly with staff.
Go beyond just acknowledging Black History Month in February. Integrate diverse perspectives and accomplishments across the curriculum all year long.
Show appreciation for school counselors during National School Counselor Week in February. Recognize their hard work through small gestures.
Building the master schedule is complex. Involve key staff in the process, analyze trends, and give yourself enough time to make informed decisions.
Sustain a positive school climate by focusing on inclusion, kindness, collaboration, reflection on values, and promoting wellness in the month of February.
Make intentional time for self-care as a school leader. Seek support from colleagues and mentors whenever feeling overwhelmed.

2P59: Finding Your Road to Awesome with Dr. Darrin Peppard

Leadership is about connections and relationships. Our guest today, Darrin Peppard, exemplifies this in his work and shares invaluable insights on leadership. Darrin transitioned from over 25 years in education as a teacher, principal, and superintendent into educational leadership consulting. He discusses the evolution of his career and how his experiences allow him to help the "person he once was." Darrin emphasizes the importance of listening, building trust, and forging genuine relationships in schools. He provides perspective on the heavy demands currently placed on principals related to mental health, politics, and being "fixers." Darrin offers advice to avoid burnout by staying connected to your purpose and "fire."
Today's conversation focuses on creating positive school cultures. Darrin stresses clarity and intentionality, starting with identifying core values and expectations. From there, he advises recognizing, rewarding and reinforcing desired behaviors. Punishment models often backfire, while positive reinforcement breeds risk-taking and innovation. Darrin shares how he transformed his school's culture from punitive to uplifting. He suggests calendaring time for culture-building activities like connecting with kids and staff. Principals can sustain positive cultures by being thermostats who take ownership rather than thermometers who merely state problems. Overall, Darrin provides impactful recommendations for principals at all career stages on improving school climate, relationships, and personal wellbeing.
 
Key Points:
Education is about relationships - making people feel seen, heard, valued, and trusted. This should be a focus for leaders.
Be intentional about how you spend your time - calendar specific blocks for your priorities like school culture.
Check in on yourself regularly - are you staying true to your vision and what matters most? Get clarity.
To avoid burnout, stay connected to your purpose in education and the "fire" that lit you up originally.
You have a choice every day in how you show up - will you bring positive energy or drain energy?
To build culture, be clear on what you value and respect, then recognize, reward, and reinforce those things.
Develop systems and routines to maximize work-life integration and avoid always being "on."
Overall, this episode provides excellent insights from an experienced leader on sustaining positive school culture, avoiding burnout, and integrating your professional and personal lives. Darrin shares great advice for principals at all career stages
Where you can find Dr. Peppard:
Road to Awesome Website
Instagram
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2P58: Navigating Anxiety and Finding Calm as a School Leader

In this empowering episode, co-hosts Jason and Kevin tackle the critical issue of managing anxiety and stress as a school principal. Drawing from personal experiences, they explore the unique challenges principals face and provide practical strategies to cope, build resilience, and enhance leadership capabilities.
Key topics include defining anxiety, its impacts on principals, mindfulness techniques, boundary-setting, physical activity, support systems, and more. Jason and Kevin share vulnerable insights from their leadership journeys, stressing the human need for connection. They conclude with actionable advice on intentional self-care and seeking support from others.
This motivating discussion offers wisdom and hope for educators struggling with anxiety while emphasizing the role principals play in modeling healthy work-life integration. Tune in to gain perspective and tools to navigate the pressures of school leadership.
Key Points:
Principals face anxiety tied to meeting demands, safety concerns, conflicts, and performance worries
Excessive stress can impair decision-making, health, staff morale, and student support
Strategies: boundaries, exercise, mindfulness, delegating, time management, therapy
Transparency about self-care and mental health normalizes conversations
Prioritize hobbies, social connections, learning - life is meant to be enjoyed
Consistent sleep and reflection time are vital for stress management
You can’t do this alone - seek support through mentors, colleagues, counselors
Model the change you want to see - make mental wellbeing an everyday priority

2P57: Breaking Through Walls with Dr. Ryan Jackson

In this empowering episode, former principal and founder of Fit Leaders Dr. Ryan Jackson shares his inspirational leadership journey and actionable insights on optimizing wellbeing as an educator.
Dr. Jackson stresses the importance of boundaries, mindfulness, and self-care practices to avoid burnout and sustainably lead. He provides tangible tips on morning routines, movement, nutrition, and shutting off work.
Listen as Dr. Jackson also discusses creating a culture of mental health, reducing stigma, and empowering students. His message underscores the need for resilience and lifelong growth.
Key Points:
Principals must shift from maximizing to optimizing for longevity and balance
Daily routines, from stretching to reading, create intention and wellbeing
Move from “me” to “we” - lead collaboratively and delegate strategically
Influence comes through empathy, active listening, and being fully human
Therapists, physicals, and restorative spaces enable sustainable leadership
Uplift student voice and passions - education must empower all identities
Mindfulness: control your narrative, not social media or others’ opinions
It’s not over until you say it is - lean on grit and keep perspective
Dr. Jackson provides thought-provoking insights and practical tools to take care of yourself while leading, filtering all decisions through the lens of wellness and sustainability. His message inspires us to lead from a place of joy, focus on progress daily, and believe in human potential.
Fitleaders
The Underdog's Avocate
Find Dr. Jackson on:
Facebook
Instagram
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Personal X Account

2P56: Strategies for Principals to Thrive in the Midyear Challenge

Episode Show Notes:
In this episode, we delve into the unique challenges faced by school principals in the pivotal month of January. Join us as we explore insights and strategies shared by Bob Driver, an experienced educational leader. From evaluating progress and academic planning to prioritizing staff leadership and engaging with the community, we cover essential topics to empower school leaders.
Key Points:
Crucial Midpoint: Understand the significance of January as the halftime point of the academic year and the stress it brings to school principals.
Academic Planning: Explore the importance of evaluating progress, reflecting on goals, and strategizing for the second half of the school year.
Student Support: Emphasize the need for student support, especially post-finals, by addressing struggling students and maintaining a positive culture.
Staff Leadership: Prioritize staff leadership, making adjustments as necessary and focusing on professional development to support the team.
Administrative Responsibilities: Navigate the various administrative responsibilities, from budgeting to facility management, during the busy month of January.
Community Engagement: Stress the importance of keeping parents and the community involved, leveraging social media and events to maintain strong connections.
Takeaways:
January is a critical time for principals, marking the midpoint of the school year.
Academic planning, student support, staff leadership, and community engagement are key focal points.
Effective organization, delegation, and regular evaluations are crucial for success.
Celebrating small successes and fostering connections within the school community contribute to a positive school culture.
Principals should prioritize self-care by regulating phone and email usage, scheduling dedicated times for both, and encouraging activities like pickleball for staff wellness.
Join us in this insightful episode as we navigate the challenges and opportunities that January presents for school principals.
Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals