Beyond Courage: How HR Leaders Build Culture, Trust, and Energy in Changing Times

Recruiting, Retaining, & Bridge Building through Multiple Pathways

In this episode of The Leader Lounge, we sit down with Gita Patel of 27J Schools to discuss how a district-created, job-embedded alternative teacher licensure program is transforming recruitment, retention and workforce development. Learn how 27J attracts career changers, creates meaningful pathways for current employees and builds sustainable teacher pipelines through innovative partnerships and grow-your-own strategies.

School HR Summer Boot Camp - Merit Kahn

What leaders think, say, and do directly impacts hiring, retention and team performance. In this episode, Merit Kahn, our 2026 School HR Summer Boot Camp Keynote speaker, shares practical communication strategies that help school HR leaders ask better questions, lead with confidence, and build stronger teams using her Mindset, Mechanics, Motion framework.

Stabilizing Education Systems with Q360 Workforce Solutions

In this episode, John Davis of Q360 Workforce Solutions joins us to discuss how managed service providers (MSPs) help school districts streamline staffing, vendor management, credentialing and reporting. Learn how a centralized approach can increase efficiency, visibility, and support workforce planning in PK–12 education.

Why Building Intentional Relationships At Work Matter in a K-12 School Setting

In this episode, our guest Angela Wise-Landman explores how intentional relationships can transform school HR from a process-focused function into a force that shapes culture. From building stronger staff connections and navigating difficult conversations to creating meaningful onboarding experiences and improving retention, this conversation dives into practical ways HR leaders can cultivate workplaces where educators feel supported, connected and valued.

Beyond Courage: How HR Leaders Build Culture, Trust, and Energy in Changing Times

In this episode, Wendell Sumter explores how HR leaders can move beyond simply managing people to influencing culture from the inside out through emotional intelligence, courageous conversations and the daily practices that sustain leadership energy. Listeners will leave with practical insights on how to build trust, protect their energy, and lead with courage in the face of uncertainty.