The best leaders don’t control the traffic—they light the way. Inspired by Easy to Follow by Lyle Wells and Kat Armstrong, this post explores the difference between stoplight and lighthouse leadership. Lighthouse leaders lead with clarity, compassion, and purpose. They don’t demand excellence—they inspire it. Through steady guidance and unwavering values, they help others navigate challenges with confidence, turning hesitation into growth and teams into beacons of possibility

Every leader faces a defining moment—the choice to grow or fold. Inspired by Dawn Staley’s powerful words, this post explores how true leadership is forged in discomfort, resilience, and the quiet grind between where you start and where you finish. Growth isn’t glamorous—it’s gritty, courageous, and deeply human. When you choose to grow instead of folding, you model strength, inspire others, and expand what’s possible for your team, your legacy, and yourself.

Our brains are hardwired for connection and stories. This podcast is all about amplifying both. Now more than ever our stories matter. On this episode of The Your Story Matters Podcast I had a conversation with Dr. Cindy Petersen & Dr. Marilou Ryder. Dr. Cindy Petersen was 2019 ACSA's Exemplary Woman in Education as well as ACSA Region 3's Outstanding Woman Leader for 2020. Cindy earned the recognition of ACSA Region 3 Superintendent of the Year in 2013 and again in 2020. I