087: SERIES: Switch Hats, Not Values - Leading with Clarity and Sanity | PART 1: You Can’t Lead What You’re Avoiding with Guest Kendall Peterson

Welcome to Part 1 of our illuminating series, "Switch Hats, Not Values - Leading with Clarity and Sanity!" In this episode of the Leadership Sandbox, Tammy J. Bond sits down with Kendall Peterson, Early Learning Manager for the Quinault Nation. Kendall shares her transformative leadership journey through the powerful metaphor of 'switching hats,' revealing how adopting different leadership roles has revolutionized her communication and enhanced team dynamics.

This conversation dives deep into why clarity in leadership is non-negotiable and the inherent challenges of setting crucial boundaries. You'll explore how deeply personal values intertwine with professional relationships and discover the significant impact of leading with intention. Kendall's experiences highlight that avoiding difficult conversations ultimately leads to negative team outcomes. Tune in to learn how transparency about your leadership style can foster a healthier work environment and propel your personal growth as a leader.

Key Takeaways for Leaders:

• The "Hats" Concept for Clarity: Learn how intentionally "switching hats" (adopting different roles) provides clarity in communication and sets clear expectations for your team.

• Boundaries are Non-Negotiable: Effective leadership demands setting firm boundaries to maintain professionalism and reduce stress for both you and your team.

• Values as Your Compass: Understand why aligning with your personal values is fundamental for authentic and effective leadership.

• Confronting Avoidance: Discover how avoiding difficult conversations and issues directly leads to negative team dynamics and hinders personal growth.

• Intentional Leadership: Embrace the importance of leading with intention to foster a healthier and more productive work environment.

• Onboarding for Success: Learn how clear expectations set during onboarding new staff lay the groundwork for a positive team dynamic.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• How Kendall Peterson transformed her leadership style using the 'hats' metaphor.

• The profound impact of clarity in leadership on reducing stress and improving team morale.

• Why understanding and integrating personal values is crucial for effective management.

• The benefits of transparency in your leadership style for building stronger relationships.

• How team support is essential for a leader's growth and success.

• Strategies for avoiding difficult conversations and their impact on team dynamics.

Meet Kendall:

Kendall Peterson has more than 20 years of service in programs supporting children and families, and 9 years as the Early Learning Manager for the Quinault Indian Nation. She oversees Head Start, Early Head Start, and licensed childcare programming for the Nation, building strong, culturally responsive early learning environments grounded in community values.

Kendall is passionate about meeting families where they are and offering programming that helps them grow. She brings a reflective, practical approach to her own leadership journey, and is committed to mentoring her team to help them discover and realize their passions and potential. She has successfully navigated the complexities of Tribal governance, federal and state early learning regulations, and diverse stakeholder expectations, while keeping the needs of children, families, and staff at the center of her work. She brings a practical, reflective approach to leadership and is eager to share real-world strategies for staying grounded while managing competing roles.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and the Concept of Hats: Setting the stage for understanding various leadership roles.