The NAESP Principal Podcast Podcast By National Association of Elementary School Principals cover art

The NAESP Principal Podcast

The NAESP Principal Podcast

By: National Association of Elementary School Principals
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For principals, it can be lonely at the top. So it’s always a relief to hear from educators who have been there, done that, and are doing more to advance their leadership. Join us as we discuss best practices, innovative strategies, and pressing topics for today’s pre-K–8 principal with fellow principals and special guests from the education community.

This podcast is sponsored by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP). For more information, visit www.naesp.org.Copyright 2021 All rights reserved. Personal Development Personal Success
Episodes
  • Universal Design for Learning: Why One-Size-Fits-All Doesn’t Work—and What Does

    Universal Design for Learning: Why One-Size-Fits-All Doesn’t Work—and What Does
    Feb 6 2026

    In today’s episode, hosts Liz Garden and Dr. Scott McLeod talk with Dr. Kristan Rodriguez about what it takes to create schools where every learner can succeed. From understanding student variability and building systems that work to shifting from compliance to authentic engagement, this conversation explores practical strategies for implementing Universal Design for Learning in your school.

    Dr. Kristan Rodriguez is the owner of Commonwealth Consulting Agency, LLC and has been a professional development provider for over 20 years.

    Liz Garden is principal of Henry P. Clough Elementary school in Mendon Massachusetts, and serves as fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.

    Scott McLeod is professor of educational leadership at the University of Colorado, Denver, and a fellow at the NAESP Center for Innovative Leadership.
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    31 mins
  • Leading Through Change: Insights for New School Leaders

    Leading Through Change: Insights for New School Leaders
    Jan 14 2026

    Today’s episode explores what new leaders need to know about managing change. Assistant principal Donna McGuire talks with Dr. Dallas Lee about leading with clarity, slowing down under pressure, and building trust when everyone is watching.

    Dallas Lee, Ed.D. serves as instructional superintendent at the District of Columbia Public School system.

    Donna McGuire is assistant principal PS/IS 18 – The Park Terrace School in New York City, and serves as moderator of the NAESP Assistant Principal Community of Practice.
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    25 mins
  • From AP to Principal

    From AP to Principal
    Dec 5 2025

    In today’s episode, host Equetta Jones talks with Ashley Farrington and Dr. Jerod Phillips Sr. about how school leaders build the relationships and support systems that help them grow from assistant principal to principal—and thrive once they get there. This conversation explores how connection can turn leadership from isolating to inspiring.

    Ashley Farrington is principal of Birchview Elementary School in Plymouth, Minnesota, 2020 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal, 2025 NAESP National Distinguished Principal, and president-elect of the Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association.

    Dr. Jerod Phillips Sr. is principal of David E. Robinson Elementary in Magnolia, Delaware, and a 2021 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal.

    Equetta Jones is principal of Lovecreek Elementary School in Lewes, Delaware, 2020 NAESP National Outstanding Assistant Principal, and moderator for NAESP’s Early Career Principal Community of Practice.
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    23 mins
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Wow Zandra was on 🔥 and she helps fuel that in other educators just by listening!

Love the way she approached the topic of Social Media as part of the resume, how she intentionally sets the interview when hiring & her view on Power v. Authority, and the importance of self care while performing a high demand job.

Can't wait to hear more of these podcasts!

A must listen!

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