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Faith Lincicum, principal of Hillcrest Elementary School in Waukesha, talks about her path in education. She started as a classroom teacher, taught across grade levels, then became an instructional coach and later a principal. We look at what has driven Hillcrest's rise since 2017 to 2026 Wisconsin Blue Ribbon recognition, and how districtwide collaboration keeps student success consistent. Faith also names the mentors who shaped how she leads. Along the way she covers what people misunderstand about educators' work, why rest and recovery matter for school staff, and the people she still carries with her today.

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In this episode, Sue Doyle talks about her path through education. She started as a classroom teacher at Pier Elementary, moved into school leadership and became Executive Director of CESA 1. She describes the mentors who shaped her, including Jerry Sullivan, and the experiences that prepared her to lead. Sue explains her leadership philosophy, why she builds teams with people who think differently and challenge her, and why mentoring the next generation of education leaders matters. She ends with what she wishes more people understood about being an educator, and who she is most grateful to.

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In this conversation, veteran educator and consultant Don Smith traces his path from the classroom to school leadership to his work today with First Educational Resources. Don unpacks why relationships and collective efficacy sit at the heart of school improvement, what makes PLCs and collaborative time actually move student outcomes, and what stays the same when supporting schools across the country. He shares the teacher who most changed his life as a student, how schools can create more of those life-changing relationships for every kid, and what he wishes more people understood about educators who look resistant. He closes with a heartfelt reflection on gratitude and the people who shaped his journey.