Aspiring
Launching
Building
Mastering
ACADEMIES
CONFERENCES
Leadership
Legal
Employment
Member Podcasts
Welcome to the Principals' Leadership Lounge Podcast! We’re Illinois Middle School Principal of the Year Al Davenport & Old Quarry Middle School Principal Joe Sweeney, real principals sharing real-life leadership strategies, mentoring, and authentic insights. Tune in weekly for practical advice and down-to-earth discussions. Let’s lead and grow together!
80m
last Tuesday
Season 4, Episode 7: 'Staff Wellness"
last Tuesday
Season 4, Episode 7: 'Staff Wellness"
Season 4, Episode 7 brings an important conversation to the forefront—staff wellness. Al sits down with Carly Quick to talk about what it really means to support educators in today’s demanding environment. From burnout to balance, this episode explores real strategies to help leaders create spaces where staff feel valued, supported, and energized. Because when we take care of our people, everything else follows.55m
March 23, 2026
Season 4, Episode 6: "WE OVER ME"
March 23, 2026
Season 4, Episode 6: "WE OVER ME"
Season 4, Episode 5: WE over MEIn this episode of the Principal Leadership Lounge, Joe and Al dive into one of the most important mindsets in school leadership: WE over ME. In a profession where decisions impact entire communities, the conversation centers on how effective leaders prioritize the collective over the individual—building cultures rooted in trust, collaboration, and shared responsibility.Joe and Al reflect on what it looks like to move from “my school” to “our school,” and how that shift influences decision-making, staff relationships, and student outcomes. They explore real scenarios where leaders must balance personal perspective with the greater good, and how empowering others ultimately strengthens the entire organization.Whether it’s navigating tough decisions, supporting staff, or creating a unified vision, this episode challenges leaders to think beyond themselves and commit to something bigger. Because in leadership, the strongest schools aren’t built on “me”—they’re built on WE.54m
March 14, 2026
Season 4, Episode 5, "What the heck is a needo?"
March 14, 2026
Season 4, Episode 5, "What the heck is a needo?"
In this episode of the SEL Podcast, Dr. Sweeney sits down with a group of students to talk about one of the most talked-about topics in the building — Needos. What started as a stress-relief tool quickly became something much bigger in our school community. Together, they explore what Needos are, why they became such a distraction, and what students can learn from the situation.Along the way, the conversation expands into bigger topics like communicating with adults, advocating for yourself, and understanding how decisions are made in a school setting. The episode wraps up with a fun discussion where students share what they would change if they were principal for a day.
This podcast is made by a wisdom seeker who has found productivity to be a great tool for achievement. Here are my reflections & interviews with luminary figures.
45m
October 22, 2024
The Wisdom & Productivity of Dr. Efraín Martínez
86m
October 19, 2024
The Wisdom & Productivity of Dr. Marie Moreno
October 19, 2024
The Wisdom & Productivity of Dr. Marie Moreno
Dr. Moreno, the founding principal of Las Americas Newcomer School in Houston, TX, is an internationally and nationally recognized expert with over 30 years of experience in education. She assists administrators, teachers, and directors in enhancing their support for immigrant and refugee students. Her focus includes examining school-wide systems, accountability, leadership training, language acquisition, and the social-emotional aspects of learning for immigrant students.Dr. Moreno has traveled the world, visiting refugee camps in Uganda, schools in Kenya and Israel, and various countries in Central America, Cuba, and Tanzania, to understand the challenges faced by newly arrived students.She earned her Doctorate in Education from the University of St. Thomas in Houston, TX. Dr. Moreno is the recipient of the 2022 TIME Top 10 Innovative Teacher Award and the World Affairs Council - Houston Global Leaders of Influence. She is also a published author, speaker, national panelist, and mother of two.90m
October 14, 2024
The Essential Dr. Carlos Azcoitia: A Life of Impact
October 14, 2024
The Essential Dr. Carlos Azcoitia: A Life of Impact
Two social justice educators working to unite the Black and Brown communities through education, storytelling and community engagement.
47m
July 4, 2025
Decolonizing the Page: Duncan Tonatiuh and the Power of Visual Narrative
July 4, 2025
Decolonizing the Page: Duncan Tonatiuh and the Power of Visual Narrative
In this episode of Black, Brown & Bilingüe, we sit down with award-winning author and illustrator Duncan Tonatiuh to explore his creative journey. Duncan shares insights into his unique writing process, the cultural and historical inspirations behind his work, and the deep connection between place, identity, and storytelling. Through a thoughtful conversation, we discuss how his Mexican-American heritage shapes his art and how he uses picture books to honor untold histories and amplify marginalized voices.37m
February 18, 2025
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Call it by its Name!
February 18, 2025
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Call it by its Name!
Lissette and Maurice sit down and discuss the truth about DEI and make a commitment to calling out injustice. Diversity, Equity, any Inclusion is not going anywhere. Lets call it by its name!73m
February 6, 2025
American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos with Dr. Paul Ortiz
February 6, 2025
American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos with Dr. Paul Ortiz
Join Lissette and Maurice as they welcome back Dr. Paul Ortiz where he shared insights into his involvement in American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos, a documentary that sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of Latinos in shaping U.S. history. Dr. Ortiz, a historian and author specializing in Latino and African American histories, discussed the importance of elevating narratives that challenge traditional historical perspectives.
Join us for your weekly inspiration on leadership, friendship and relationships...get ready for some REAL TALK episodes featuring leaders across the country who inspire us, elevate us and celebrate us...our goal is to create a safe space to share the REAL things happening in education. Follow us on Twitter at @F4Leaders ...What does F4Leaders mean? Fun, Fab & Fierce Females!
14m
April 2, 2026
Final Four Fever, Tiger Talk & a Summer House Spiral
April 2, 2026
Final Four Fever, Tiger Talk & a Summer House Spiral
We’re not saying we’re superstitious… but we are dropping a bonus pod because something is working. From Final Four energy (and of course some Illini love) to all things Masters week—yes, including Tiger talk—we’re covering it all. Then we've got what really matters: our Summer House update, where Kate has A LOT to say (and none of it is calm). Sports, chaos, hot takes, and Joe's back again!17m
March 27, 2026
Elite 8 Energy, Augusta…or Augustana?!
March 27, 2026
Elite 8 Energy, Augusta…or Augustana?!
Courtney is feeling just superstitious enough that we had to drop an impromptu pod today—because when Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball wins and punches a ticket to the Elite 8, you don’t mess with the vibes. We’ve got special guest (and colleague/podcaster) Joe Sweeney joining us as we dive into all things March Madness, sports hot takes, and the kind of chaos you only get when we hit record with zero plan.Meanwhile, Augusta would like a word with Kate…who confidently thought The Masters was played in “Augustana.” Yes. Augustana. Despite owning a golf simulator business. You truly can’t make this up.Courtney also shares a heartfelt note a student left for Joe, and let’s just say…we’re closing in on an April Fools’ Day prank that Joe will not see coming.It’s unfiltered, it’s sports-meets-superstition—and honestly, we’re just over here trying not to jinx the run.31m
March 22, 2026
Our New Academy is 🔥 ...and Workplace Generational Differences Are Really A THING
March 22, 2026
Our New Academy is 🔥 ...and Workplace Generational Differences Are Really A THING
We’re baaaack—and this episode is giving workplace reality check. We’re diving into generational differences at work , breaking down the madness of companies forcing people back into the office, and honestly? We’re just over here hoping it pushes a few of you to join us in education—because we’re basically saving the world over here. We also hit on how everything online gets twisted (why is that and anonymous posting even a thing?!) and how the hardest job is being a parent.And finally—our new academy is officially LIVE and getting RAVE reviews 🔥 Come join us in June and see what everyone’s talking about.Unfiltered. Unsupervised. Slightly unhinged. Let’s go. 
26m
February 13, 2025
Damien Aherne... on Becoming Principal
February 13, 2025
Damien Aherne... on Becoming Principal
In this episode of the Becoming Principal Podcast, host Dr. Jeffry Prickett speaks with Damien Aherne, a passionate educator and principal. They discuss Damien's journey from Ireland to the U.S., his love for music, and how it shaped his teaching career. Damien shares insights on the challenges he faced growing up, the pivotal moments that led him to become a principal, and the importance of building connections with students. The conversation highlights the intersection of teaching and leadership, emphasizing the impact educators can have on their students' lives.31m
January 27, 2025
Dr. Brett Bending... on Becoming Principal
January 27, 2025
Dr. Brett Bending... on Becoming Principal
In this conversation, Brett Bending shares his unexpected journey from high school education to elementary, highlighting the importance of mentorship, the impact of coaches, and the significance of embracing change in one's career. He reflects on the influences of family and early experiences that shaped his path, the challenges and rewards of leadership, and the continuous growth that comes from building a toolkit of skills and experiences.24m
January 4, 2025
Angela Williams... On Becoming Principal
January 4, 2025
Angela Williams... On Becoming Principal
In this episode of the Becoming Principal podcast, Angela Williams - Special Education Administrator in Elgin School District U46 in Elgin, Illinois & author of the "Leadership Lemons" on LinkedIn - shares her journey from a young girl playing school to becoming a special education administrator. She discusses the influences that shaped her career, including her parents' support and key mentors who encouraged her to pursue leadership roles. Angela reflects on the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, pivotal life moments that changed her perspective, and the importance of mentorship in education. She emphasizes the need for more leaders in the field and the significant role principals play in shaping school culture and student experiences.
This podcast will provide you with a little bit of inspiration and motivation to get you through your day! Topics will center around education, leadership, personal, and professional development. In essence, there will be a little bit of something for everyone.
31m
December 6, 2024
Energy, Passion, Relationships, Results - Jake Palmer Interview
December 6, 2024
Energy, Passion, Relationships, Results - Jake Palmer Interview
Be the THERMOSTAT and not the thermometer! Listen to Jake Palmer, a passionate principal at Fisher Grade School committed to creating a nurturing environment through strong relationships with staff, students, and families. His energetic and enthusiastic approach inspires positive change that transforms student outcomes.32m
November 16, 2024
Creating a Culture of Belonging - Dr. Rachael Mahmood
November 16, 2024
Creating a Culture of Belonging - Dr. Rachael Mahmood
Be the THERMOSTAT, not the Thermometer! Being the Thermostat is not something that just happens, but it is what you do. Listen to Dr. Rachael Mahmood, 2024 Illinois Teacher of the Year, use her voice and stories to help uplift and motivate us to #bethethermostat!27m
October 26, 2024
Being The Thermostat To Get Results - Sean Buchanan
October 26, 2024
Being The Thermostat To Get Results - Sean Buchanan
Be The Thermostat! Listen to Sean Buchanan, Superintendent or Geary Public Schools in Geary, Oklahoma, as he talks about increasing parental engagement to increase academic results. Connect with Sean at www.seanbuchanansolutions.com.