A Community of Principals Podcast: Recent Episodes
Ben Gilpin
Learned a lot in this episode with Dillondria. Her story of going off to college and then returning to her home town is one many can understand and relate to.
Engaging and eye-opening podcast with first timer Bryan Kay. Bryan is at Traverse City Area Public Schools and he shares his unorthodox journey to Traverse City. In addition, Bryan shares his growth in social media and how the 30 second interaction is something he focuses on daily.
Season 6 of The Community of Principals kicks off 2023 with Alli Gray from Livonia Public schools.
This season is all about putting the spotlight on up and coming leaders.
In this episode Alli shares her uneven journey and her passion for education. You'll easily be able to hear her enthusiasm and passion.
Timely and wonderful podcast with Kristen Bawks. Kristen shares her transition from principalship to central office. In this episode you'll hear how Kristen is a creature of habit, loves lake life, and is grounded in in supporting her staff, students and community.
Becky Hager joins the podcast and talks baby teeth, advocacy and her amazing staff at East Jackson. Check out season 5.
This is an excellent episode where Walt shares his path in education, his passion for service, and highlights his amazing staff.
Excited to bring in long time MEMSPA leader Mike Schulte. Mike shares thoughts on retirement and how to stay involved. This is a wonderful episode for anyone thinking about their next step.
In studio with Matt Desmarais... great to connect with my friend on all things family and education.
In this episode Matt shares insight into Arnold Elementary and his focus on family. Also, Matt comes from a family of educators as he shares how he has followed his dad into leadership.
Dr. Travis Smith shares his complex and layered journey in education. Love this podcast with a Yuper Principal.
Travis is extremely positive and has a wealth of experiences. He'll share his helicopter journey all the way to bicycling across the United States.
Kicking off 2022 with Carol Dawson. I love the story Carol shares about family and adoption. Her vulnerability and positive nature are contagious. This is an excellent episode that will brighten your day.
Episode 6 of Season 5 with Carla Vrondran. In this episode Carla dives into her background in Softball and shares an uplifting message about the importance of understanding traditions with her staff, students and community.
Carla also gives a shout out to her Staff and how they are making such a powerful impact in very challenging times.
Long OVERDUE episode with Evan Winkler. Evan has transitioned into a new role during Covid. Check out Evan's journey and his insight into stepping into leadership.
Episode 4 of Season 5 with Dan Scoville from Hamilton Schools.
Dan shares insight into his school and connections he's made throughout his career. This is a terrific episode that you'll easily connect with.
Wait till you hear about his passion for being a night owl and seeing the sunset.
Season 5 focuses on #YouMatter. In this episode we discover the journey to leadership for 2021 Principal of the Year Brian Dotson.
You'll love his wit and humor and you'll also connect with another fantastic leader in our state.
Check out an outstanding episode that will lift your spirits.
Season 5, Episode 2 with Andy Lindsay is insightful and entertaining!
Andy has a contagious optimism and he's the rarity...a first year "experienced" leader. Andy has used his assistant principal expertise to his advantage as he has transitioned to a new spot in 2021.
This episode is sure to make you smile and you will definitely hear Andy's positive nature coming through.
Steve Chisik kicks off season 5 with a real and uplifting episode. Listen in to hear current challenges Steve faces as well as his shoutouts to fellow educators.
Season 4 continues with a fantastic MENTOR/MENTEE connection between two leading ladies. This is an excellent episode that dives into perspectives from both an early administrator and a veteran administrator.
A wonderful conversation with two great leaders! These two share the value of mentorship and the true meaning of #BetterTogether. I was so impressed to hear these two connect DAILY!
The connection goes all the way back to Lincoln Elementary. I hope you'll tune in to hear the value of friendship and continuous support.
Episode 5 of Season 4 features Michael Johnson and Detra Fields. This episode is about #RealTalk and how we can take steps to SEE one another in an effort to be #BetterTogether. Check it out!
Episode 4 of Season 4 with the fabulous duo of Derek Wheaton and Debbie McFalone! These two will talk connections and #LeadershipMatters. It's long overdue to have both of these fantastic leaders on the show.
As the year 2020 comes to a close it seems perfect to end on a high note with Becky Biedermann and Kat Quain. These two always light up the room with their smiles and positive energy. Check out this episode to learn more about this dynamic duo from Marysville.
Episode 2 of Season 4 features Mike Domagalski and David Simpson. This episode will give insight into this amazing friendship and it is sure to make you smile.
Season 4 focuses on #BetterTogether
Kristen and Alex share their own connection and this season is all about supporting each other. You'll also hear the significance of MEMSPA and ways to grow.
Great advice from Becky Moore! Becky is moving from the Principalship to Central Office and she offers great thoughts to all. This is an excellent episode that will surely make you think and reflect.
Looking to learn from an amazing journey? This is a great episode where Sarah is vulnerable and shares her leadership journey.
Can't Miss Episode with Alex McNeece! Love the honesty and journey of this thoughtful and caring leader. You won't want to miss this one.
Fantastic episode with Tim Allen of Jackson Public Schools. Did you know Tim is a published author? Did you know that Tim has served in multiple cities and multiple districts?
Check out this episode to hear the impact Tim is having.
Ringing in the New Year with Matt Severin! Terrific episode where Matt shares his journey and opens up about hobbies, interests and what fuels him each day. Be sure to check out this episode that will bring a smile to your face.
Fantastic episode with Sarah Bentley on her BIRTHDAY! Sarah shares the real journey to leadership and the people that supported her along the way.
Series 3 continues with Bill K.! Love that Bill is vulnerable and shares some of his struggles in education. This is a great episode that shows resilience and perseverance are critical parts of leadership.
Season 3 continues...this one gets a little awkward as Amy Gilpin interviews me. Check out this fun episode that will bring a smile to your face.
Check out Season 3's episode with Tim Lyman. In this episode Tim shares his strong connection to family and the people that have influenced him throughout his life. Terrific episode with a great leader.
Season 3 continues with Verle Gilbert! In this episode Verle shares a moving story about his grandfather and takes time to recognize all the people that have supported him throughout his leadership journey.
Community of Principals Podcast with Nick Angel from Chelsea Community Schools. Nick shares his pride for his school and community. We are delighted to have another Middle School Principal join us on the podcast.
Season 3 continues with Principal Vicki Wilson. It's exciting to hear about Vicki's instructional rounds, upcoming book project and the value of lifting up others. Be sure to check out this episode.
Season 3 Episode 3 with Amie McCaw! Wonderful to discover she's a Boilermaker and her hidden story of her grandfather. Check out this uplifting episode.
The 2019 Summer Leadership Institute was a BLOCKBUSTER! In this episode Nate Pechaitis, Alaina Ellison, and Marsha Davis all share valuable takeaways from Mackinac Island. Be sure to check it out!
Season 3 of The Community of Principals Podcast kicks off with Julie Mytych. What an amazing story of perseverance and positivity. This is an absolute can't miss episode!
Fabulous episode with Jennifer Mayes. Truly enjoyed getting to know her path and what fuels her. Be sure to check this episode out.
An absolutely delightful episode with an amazing leader. Check out this episode featuring Carmen Maring and hear how she leads with a humble attitude and a drive to continuously grow.
Season 2 of the Community of Principals Podcast with this episode featuring Principal Mark Morawski. This is an excellent episode where Mark shares an unconventional route to leadership. This episode won't disappoint. Check it out!
Kicking off 2019 with Distinguished Principal Craig McCalla from Dexter, Michigan. This episode will surely get you thinking about how to react when a possible door closes.
Check out this can't miss episode with Jonathan Swegles! His positivity in contagious and you are sure to smile throughout this show.
Kelly Buckmaster shares her leadership journey and we dive deeper into being encouraged by a mentor. Kelly shares excellent insight in Season 2, Episode 6 of a Community of Principals Podcast.
Check out Season 2, Episode 5 with Becky Biedermann. In this episode Becky talks about her Kids First approach, her love of sports and why education has always been a pivotal part of her life.
Check out the Community of Principals podcast featuring Ryan Schrock. Ryan is located in Traverse City and this episode will highlight his journey into leadership and why family is such a priority.
Fun experience meeting someone for the first time on a podcast. Check out Season 2, Episode 2 with Rachel Card and learn about a "house divided" and why her mom was critical in her personal development. #MEMSPA
Fun and insightful episode with David Simpson. David shows true vulnerability that others can learn and grow from. Be sure to check out this episode.
Season II kicks off with Buchanon Elementary Principal, Jon Wennstrom. Jon shares great insight in this fast paced podcast. Be sure to check it out.
Terrific episode with Jason Gribble. His unconvential route will inspire people. Check it out!
Catching up with Middle School Principal, Doug Ammeraal. Fantastic episode on why Doug's journey and his calling to be an educator.
Episode 6 highlights Eric Cardwell. Eric shares his journey and passions with the MEMSPA community.
2016-2017 MEMSPA Outstanding Practicing Principal Amy Taranko joins the podcast and shares her story. Check out episode 5!
Episode 4 highlights former MEMSPA President Tom De Graff and his leadership journey. Check it out!
Episode three highlights Middle School Principal Shanna Spickard. Shanna shares her leadership journey as well as a few insightful pieces of herself. This episode is sure to get you smiling and thinking.
Episode two features #MEMSPAchat creator Mike Domagalski. Check out this podcast and other great MEMSPA leaders.
Episode one of the Community of Principals podcast features MEMSPA President Jeremy Patterson.
Check out the podcast and share your thoughts on #MEMSPAchat
Let's continue to reflect and grow as leaders.