2Principals Podcast

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

2P55: Creating a Culture of Mental Well-being in Your School

Episode Summary: In the first episode of 2024, Kevin and Jason emphasize the importance of prioritizing mental health and wellbeing in schools. They discuss challenges, provide statistics, and share practical strategies for principals and school leaders to create a supportive culture.
Key Points Covered:
The vital role principals play in establishing an inclusive, mental health-focused school culture
Barriers like stigma, lack of resources, and need for individualized approaches
Alarming mental health statistics showing rises in youth anxiety, depression, and more
Importance of modeling self-care, building relationships, and reducing stigma
Measuring success through surveys, attendance, activities involvement, state assessments
Actionable strategies like mental health plans, PD, student voice, community partnerships
The ongoing process of dedication and intention needed in this work
How supporting mental wellbeing leads to student and staff thriving
Advice for Leaders:
Prioritize mental self-care and model healthy work-life balance
Actively collaborate and seek partnerships around mental health
By taking a holistic approach focused on mental wellbeing, schools can provide the supportive environments needed for their communities to fully thrive. This episode offers thought-provoking insights and practical steps for leaders to implement in the new year.
Let the journey begin!

2P54: Best of 2023

From navigating the challenges of modern leadership to exploring the innovative strategies that define success, our guests have been the heartbeat of the 2Principals Podcast. So, sit back and relax as we weave together snippets from each episode, capturing the essence of the diverse perspectives and insights that have graced our virtual studio.
In these snippets, you'll hear the echoes of seasoned leaders dissecting the artistry behind decision-making, the alchemy of team dynamics, and the science of adapting to a rapidly changing landscape. Whether you're a seasoned executive, an emerging leader, or someone simply fascinated by the multifaceted world of leadership, there's something here for everyone.
Our guests have not only shared their professional acumen but also bared their personal stories, making each episode a unique and intimate exploration of leadership in its various forms. We're immensely grateful for the time and wisdom our guests have generously offered, making 2023 a year of growth, inspiration, and meaningful connections.
So, without further ado, let's embark on this retrospective adventure. Join us as we revisit the pearls of wisdom, the laughter, and the profound moments that have marked the 2Principals Podcast in 2023. Whether you've been with us from the beginning or you're just tuning in, we're thrilled to have you on this journey.
Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and perhaps discover a new perspective on leadership. Welcome to the 2Principals Podcast: A Reflection on 2023. Let the journey begin!

2P53: Calm, Clear, and Confident - The Mindful Leader’s Edge

Welcome to the 2Principals Podcast, the podcast where we explore the art and science of leadership. In today's episode, we embark on a journey to discover the mindful leader's edge – a realm where calm, clarity, and confidence converge to redefine leadership excellence. Join us as we unravel the transformative impact of mindfulness on decision-making, communication, and overall team dynamics. From practical tips to inspiring anecdotes, we delve into the strategies that empower leaders to navigate challenges with poise and purpose. Get ready to embrace the mindset that sets extraordinary leaders apart. This is "Calm, Clear, and Confident: The Mindful Leader's Edge." Let's get started!

2P52: MASSP Executive Director Bob Driver & December Reflections

We want to welcome Bob Driver, Executive Director of MASSP. We spend valuable time reflecting on the principalship as it relates to the month of December. Bob also discusses the recent roll out of the December Principal Checklist.
The episode delves into Bob Driver's wealth of experience and expertise in educational leadership, exploring the challenges and opportunities that leaders face in today's ever-evolving educational environment. Listeners gain insights into the key principles that drive effective leadership, drawing from Driver's extensive background in fostering positive change within school communities.
Let's get started!

2P51: Emotional Intelligence in Action & Empathy in Educational Leadership

Welcome to the 2Principals Podcast where we explore the intersection of emotional intelligence and effective leadership in the field of education. In today's episode, we delve into the crucial role of empathy in educational leadership, uncovering real-life stories and practical insights that showcase emotional intelligence in action. Join us as we navigate the complexities of fostering a compassionate and understanding environment within educational institutions, ultimately shaping the future through empathetic leadership. Get ready for a compelling conversation that highlights the transformative power of Emotional Intelligence in Action: Empathy in Educational Leadership.Let's get started!

2P50: The Clarity Connection; Movement and the Mind

We have an exciting topic to explore - the connection between exercise and mental clarity. In today's fast-paced world, it's essential for leaders to prioritize their mental well-being, and exercise plays a crucial role in achieving that. In this episode, we'll dive deep into the statistics, discuss in-depth questions, explore fascinating facts, and provide strategies for leaders to implement. Plus, we'll share two actionable pieces of advice that leaders can start using right away. Let's get started!