The Interview Chair

In this conversation, Principal Sean Gaillard discusses the emotional toll of working in education and the importance of personal health and well-being. He shares how educators often face immense pressure and the necessity of carving out time for self-care and reflection, emphasizing the significance of seeking support from others to navigate the challenges of the profession.

In this episode, Jimmy sits down with Joy Kelly, a seasoned educator and leadership coach, who shares the challenges faced by many school leaders and the importance of leaning into your core values during difficult times. 

In this episode, Jimmy interviews former principal and Superintendent Darrin Peppard. They discuss the critical aspects of educational leadership, emphasizing the importance of clarity and intentionality and the need for educators to focus on positive reinforcement. 

In this episode of the Interview Chair, Dr. Sanée Bell reminds us to be excellent on purpose, emphasizing the need for educators to maintain high expectations for all students and staff in order to inspire, motivate and empower them to be their very best. 

In this episode, Texas Principal of the Year, David Arencibia shares his journey from humble beginnings, overcoming situational poverty and dyslexia to becoming a nationally recognized leader in education. David discusses the essential components that transformed his school campus into a thriving school community.

In this episode, Jennifer Womble shares her journey from a law school dropout to a leader in educational technology.  Jimmy and Jen discuss the challenges and opportunities in education, focusing on the importance of understanding resistance to change, adapting professional development to meet the needs of adult learners, and the role of mentorship and modeling in teaching for all educators. 

 

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In this episode, Beth Houf shares her journey as principal, discussing the challenges and triumphs she has faced in her career. She emphasizes the importance of support systems, personal growth, and leading authentically. The discussion serves as a reminder that even the most accomplished leaders can face struggles and that reaching out for help is crucial in navigating the complexities of educational leadership.

In this episode, Illinois Superintendent Mike Lubelfeld, shares his experiences in dealing with the trauma of COVID-19, the impact of non-person vs. in-person learning, and the challenges of scaling e-learning with limited resources - all amid a mass shooting in his community.  Mike opens up about how all of this took a toll on him both mentally and physically. 

In this episode, Jimmy is joined by teacher Nick Ferroni, who reminds us that there is no such thing as a perfect teacher. However, every teacher is great at something—and even greater when they stop comparing themselves to others.

 

In this episode, Jimmy sits down with current practitioner and Teacher Librarian Shannon Miller. Shannon shares how she lost her sparkle after she felt boxed in and not given the opportunities to lead or contribute in meaningful ways.

In this episode, Dr. Jody Carrington reminds us that to best serve our students and families the biggest investment we can make is on ourselves first and that our job as educators and caretakers is to do the next best, right, kind thing.

In episode 74, we sit down with Dr. Stephen Peters who reflects on his role as a leader as he shares what he did to honor and be faithful to the work in order to make the greatest impact possible.

In this episode, Jimmy sits down with Salinas, CA Superintendent and 2023 ALAS National Superintendent of the Year Zandra Jo Galván who shares how educators can change the narrative and help break the cycle of generational poverty for all kids!

In this episode Weston talks about “that one kid” who almost made him quit the profession. 

In this episode, guest Shane Saeed owns up to the challenges she faced as a first-year teacher and how she almost left the teaching profession. However, these experiences helped her learn and grow and made her a better educator. 

In this episode, guest Baruti Kafele shares two things we can do in life as it relates to our work - We can go along to get along or stand on principle. Hear his story as it relates to his work. 

In this final episode of 2024, Jimmy discusses his thoughts as we close out the year and shares some exciting news about changes coming to The Interview Chair in 2025!

In this episode, Jimmy shares a recent conversation with a principal who felt his feedback was dismissed, leading to a missed opportunity by his director.