Dr. Eric Knost: Where Imperfection Defines Perfection in Leadership

New school year is in full swing for many and is just weeks away for others! As leaders, we often strive for perfection, but what if embracing imperfection is our greatest strength?

 

In this episode of An Imperfect Leader: The Superintendents and Leadership Podcast, we're honored to host Dr. Eric Knost, a former superintendent with 34 years of experience in the education field, including 17 years as a superintendent and deputy superintendent in three different school districts.

 

Eric shares his journey, emphasizing that prioritizing people, honesty, and vulnerability are the true hallmarks of effective leadership. This episode offers profound insights for all school leaders:

 

• Learn why Eric believes “imperfection defines perfection” in leadership, and how embracing your humanistic qualities makes you more real and impactful.
• Discover the power of human connection and relationships, exemplified by his own bus driver, Mr. Roberts.
• Hear how he passionately advocates for people-centered cultures over compliance-driven ones, believing bureaucracy should be removed from education when possible.
• Gain insights from his “500-year flood” experience, where vulnerability transformed his leadership and fostered a deeper sense of belonging with his community and staff.

 

This episode is a must-listen for school leaders seeking to cultivate empathy, compassion, and authentic connection in their districts this coming year. Tune in and prepare to lead with heart.

 

Follow Host Peter Stiepleman on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-stiepleman-76004819a/
Website: https://imperfectleader.com/

Youtube (video of conversation):  https://www.youtube.com/@animperfectleaderleadershi5144/featured

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/animperfectleader/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@animperfectleader 

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