Pull up a seat at the leaders' table, and join the conversation about advancing equity. 'The Leaders' Table' podcast surfaces stories from civic leaders, their personal insights on leadership, and the tools and practices that make them successful.

Featured Episode

30 minutes and 15 seconds

Nancy Gutierrez is a former teacher and principal now serving as the President and CEO of The Leadership Academy, a nonprofit that has created a national model for teaching and inspiring leadership at every level of the school system.  In our interview, she discusses the importance of proactive leaders who confront injustice, and how the love of her hometown inspires her work everyday.  

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by LEE Studios, from Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

34 minutes and 49 seconds

LEE member Dr. Elora Diaz is the real deal: She has the degrees, she has the experience, but most importantly she is driven by her belief that students’ creativity should be nurtured, and they should be treated with respect. As governing board president for the Phoenix Elementary No. 1 School District, Elora knows how to leverage her personal experiences with educational inequity and create a safe learning environment focused on doing what is best for students. 

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by LEE Studios, from Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

40 minutes and 50 seconds

This tenacious Kentucky State Representative and mother of three thrives on breaking through barriers. As a self-described former “free lunch kid” in her community, Rep. Raymond now focuses on creating opportunities, particularly pathways to education, for people in poverty. In this interview, Josie shares secrets for keeping her personal and professional life balanced and “running the best campaign your district has ever seen.”  

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by LEE Studios, from Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

34 minutes and 12 seconds

At only 26 years old, Carlos Mark Vera has already had a profound impact, landing him on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list as the Founder and Executive Director of Pay Our Interns. After experiencing inequities first hand as a United States Congress and White House intern, he put together a plan that ultimately led to over $48 million being devoted to funding paid congressional career-building opportunities. Listen in to hear how his work is helping pave the way for all students – especially Black, Latinx, and Native American students – to access paid internships, leading to a more equitable workforce and more diverse leadership across all sectors.

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by LEE Studios, from Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

70 minutes and 15 seconds

This extra-special episode features a conversation between Sen. Cory Booker and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries. Originally recorded as part of a virtual event for LEE’s SparkLeadership initiative, this conversation was hosted by former-US Secretary of Education, Dr. John B. King Jr. This episode is full of inspiring takeaways and features questions directly from LEE members. Tune in for a dynamic conversation around racial justice and gain insights from the panelists’ experience in public leadership.

53 minutes and 47 seconds

An honor anyone would be proud of, Kira Orange Jones was named one of TIME Magazine’s most 100 influential people in 2015 for her work reshaping the school system when she served as Executive Director of Teach For America in New Orleans. She currently serves as a member of the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, representing District 2. In this episode, Kira dives deep into the lessons she has learned about how to gain technical skills for governing, and how invaluable it is to stay connected to the communities you serve.

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

37 minutes and 47 seconds

From humble beginnings, Marvin Figueroa has built his career around serving others through public policy. Most recently, he has joined the new presidential administration as Director of the Office of Intergovernmental and External Affairs at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In the episode, Marvin discusses how he served as the Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Resources for Virginia and various other roles in which he advanced equal access to quality, affordable, and accessible social services. 

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

67 minutes and 54 seconds

Former U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. John B. King Jr. joined LEE’s final virtual forum of 2020 for a special conversation surrounding the state of the nation’s education system on the brink of political change. Featuring questions from LEE members, Dr. King offered inspiring ideas for moving forward with a new presidential administration and a vision for the future-focused on equity, technology, and leadership. Dr. King was also a guest on The Leaders’ Table earlier this year, so be sure to check out his full episode titled, Importance of Second Chances!

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

39 minutes and 55 seconds

Marco A. Davis is President & CEO of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI), which was founded in 1976 by Latino Members of Congress to develop new generations of leadership. Marco is a thought leader in the areas of civic engagement, educational achievement, community advocacy, and Latinx leadership. He brings wisdom from years of spearheading leadership development for UnidosUS and serving (as Deputy Director of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics and as Director of Public Engagement for the Corporation for National and Community Service) in the Obama Administration. Marco and CHCI host a leadership-focused podcast, Here to Lead.

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

54 minutes and 59 seconds

From neighborhood pulpits to national conventions, Reverend Leah Daughtry is a multifaceted leader with expertise in organizing communities. During the Clinton Administration, she held a number of senior posts in the U.S. Department of Labor and became the first person to become the CEO of the Democratic National Committee twice: first in 2008, and again in 2016. With innumerable contributions to the Democratic platform on her resume, Rev. Daughtry is also the co-author of the NAACP Image Award-winning book For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Politics

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

27 minutes and 32 seconds

Over three decades, Caraway has played a major behind-the-scenes role in shaping national politics. She kicked off her career supporting local campaigns, then got a big break working as Chief of Staff for Reverend Jesse Jackson’s second presidential bid. Caraway’s impact has been felt from the operations of national political conventions to hosting intimate dinners between Black female leaders and every major candidate for the Democratic Party's presidential nominees since 1994. Caraway tells the story and offers a blueprint to Black women in the NAACP Image Award-winning book she co-authored, For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Politics

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

37 minutes and 57 seconds

From dropping out of high school in NYC, to teaching at them in Puerto Rico, to serving as U.S. Secretary of Education in 2016, Dr. John B. King speaks from a wealth of experiences and service… It’s from all of these experiences that he learned the value of second chances, student & educator support, self-care, and national leadership on the issues facing educational success. Dr. King continues the fight as CEO of The Education Trust, where he advocates for excellence and equity for all students.

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

 

46 minutes and 23 seconds

Even before becoming the longest running, first-ever Latina domestic policy advisor for President Barack Obama, Cecilia Muñoz had dedicated decades to advocacy for the Latinx community and immigrants’ rights. At the leaders' table, Cecilia shares personal stories and professional strategies from her time in the White House, and empowering lessons from her book, More Than Ready. Cecilia continues her commitment to equity every day as the current Vice President for Public Interest Technology for New America.

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

 

39 minutes and 23 seconds

Fueled by his passion for community, Dr. Wes Bellamy became the youngest-ever individual to be elected to the Charlottesville City Council in 2015. He brought equity-minded leadership during the time Charlottesville drew national attention in the conversation about public space and racial reconciliation. Throughout his time as Vice Mayor and a member of the Virginia State Board of Education, Dr. Bellamy has supported countless education and community programs that teach youth about the true power they hold. Dr. Bellamy is motivated by his community and puts his mantra into practice daily: step up and be the change you need.

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://info.EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

41 minutes and 0 seconds

This tenacious Kentucky State Representative and mother of three thrives on breaking through barriers. As a self-described former “free lunch kid” in her community, Rep. Raymond now focuses on creating opportunities, particularly pathways to education, for people in poverty. In the interview, Josie shares secrets for keeping her personal and professional life balanced and “running the best campaign your district has ever seen.” 

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://info.EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes. 

35 minutes and 43 seconds

In a historic 2018 win, Everton Blair became the first person of color, the first openly LGBTQ+ candidate, and youngest-ever individual to serve on the Gwinnett County Board of Education. For Blair, his job on the school board is personal, considering that he grew up in the very district he now serves. From the classroom to the Obama White House, Everton uses all of his experiences to ensure that every student in Gwinnett County is able to get the best education possible, no matter where they live.

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://info.EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

34 minutes and 2 seconds

As a progressive lawmaker in Arizona, Rep. Hernandez is no stranger to fighting injustice. Driven by his passion for social justice and public service from a young age, Daniel was elected to a school board at only 21 years old. Since then, he has tackled many issues at the state, local, and federal levels, including: gun violence prevention, LGBTQ equality, comprehensive immigration reform, and educational equity.

 

"The Leaders' Table" is a podcast by Leadership for Educational Equity.  Go to http://info.EducationalEquity.org/LeadersTable for an episode transcript and complete show notes.

41 minutes and 8 seconds

It’s no coincidence that Irene Holtzman spends her days advocating for agile school decision making, and her favorite evenings, rocking the dance floor. But being quick on her feet takes a lot of planning. Put your earbuds in and join us as a fly on the wall for Irene’s reflections on her path from 6th-grade teacher to Executive Director of Friends of Choice in Urban Schools (FOCUS). From the tough lessons in her first year leading a team to the importance of mentorship from a leader who she describes as “the baddest of the bad”, this interview have you moving to the rhythm.

43 minutes and 58 seconds

What hasn’t Rick Hess done? He’s an educator, political scientist, advocate and author of many books including the recently published Letters to a Young Education Reformer, not mention his role at the American Enterprise Institute. This conversation ranges from evolution and revolution in school systems to how we can move beyond treating the symptoms of struggling schools, to why you usually learn the most from those who disagree with you. But the best part? Rick’s reflections on how to handle the astonishing difficulty of working for change, and how to avoid overwhelm and burnout for a sustainable career. I’d say he should write a book on that, but he already has!

38 minutes and 22 seconds

For our milestone 20th episode, we’re excited to share The Leaders’ Table with CEO of New Day New Year and former Superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District, John Deasy. Deasy is a leader on a mission to kill the school to prison pipeline with lessons to share on keeping calm under pressure. If you’ve listened to other episodes of The Leaders’ Table, you know this episode is packed full of the good stuff!

37 minutes and 46 seconds

This episode is stacked with tips from the San Antonio Independent School District’s Superintendent, Pedro Martinez’s career leading Chicago’s education system with Arne Duncan, turning education around in Nevada, and now with a community ready for change in one of the fastest growing districts in the country. Take note of Pedro’s advice for strengthening your systems-building muscles, how to balance quick wins with long term planning, and more!

33 minutes and 8 seconds

Delia Pompa is a leader whose unique “strength in quietude” has helped her build and sustain a widely respected, multi-decade advocacy career across multiple political waves. She has been a voice for children and families from inside both venerable advocacy organizations and government, including the National Council of La Raza, the Texas Education Agency, and most recently, the Migration Policy Institute.

39 minutes and 14 seconds

Courtney English is all about his community and leading Atlanta’s Board of Education to serve all kids. As the youngest-ever chair of the Board of Education for the school system where he was once both a student and a teacher, stories of students and the relationships Courtney has with teachers, parents, and community members show up in every policy decision he makes. Courtney shares what he’s learned about building trust as captain of a ship that’s navigated its fair share of tough storms.

38 minutes and 22 seconds

If you’ve heard previous episodes of The Leaders’ Table, you know we’re on a quest to find out what makes leaders tick. This week with Kaya Henderson, we cut right to the heart of it. Our conversation with Kaya packs a punch — and not in the way you might expect if you know much about this former Chancellor of D.C. Public Schools. Kaya’s one of those rare leaders who’s willing to go there, get deep and share not only how she measures her own personal and professional success, but how her favorite mistakes have shaped her leadership. That’s authentically Kaya. Tune in for tips, tricks, insights and stories from Kaya Henderson and other education changemakers.

51 minutes and 44 seconds

Curious what Chris Cerf has learned from a career in policy working for both Democrats and Republicans, and now as the Superintendent of Newark City Public Schools? Then this episode of The Leaders’ Table is for you!

31 minutes and 21 seconds

What makes Maryland State Senator Bill Ferguson a rare leader? He’s not only had experience at three levels of Maryland’s education system — first as a teacher, then in the central office, and now as an elected official — but he’s also truly in it for the long haul, not just the easy wins. We ask Bill what the rest of the world can learn from Baltimore at its best and at its worst, and how he keeps it all together as a leader.

35 minutes and 8 seconds

Ever meet a leader whose energy is infectious? Who you can just tell is going places? That’s Manny Lamarre. As executive director of the newly created Nevada Governor’s Office of Workforce Innovation, Manny stands at the intersection of workforce development, education and equity in a state that was hard hit by the last recession. Manny’s got a dream job at the cutting edge of policy, but what’s even more exciting is imagining what lies ahead for him and the communities he serves. Sky’s the limit when you’re on a rocketship!

41 minutes and 6 seconds

Luzelma Canales is a powerhouse of an advocate. As Executive Director of RGV FOCUS, she knows her data inside out and upside down. She distils complicated policy issues for any audience. She facilitates sessions like a magician and bringing partners on board is easy as pie. But what sets her apart, makes her an example not just for women in leadership, but an example for us all? Her community leads her. Listen to learn how.

60 minutes and 0 seconds

Stacey Childress flips The Leaders’ Table upside down this episode, sharing lessons learned from her role as CEO of The NewSchools Venture Fund and career as an entrepreneur. From why finding a learner’s mindset is more important than being right, to avoiding getting super-scheduled with meetings, Stacey’s advice will help you reframe your workday.

47 minutes and 58 seconds

As Founder and CEO of 4.0 Schools, Matt Candler and his team have built charter schools, incubated EdTech companies, built houses, and organized communities. And yet he’s one of the most humble leaders we’ve ever met. Listen in as we ask Matt about lessons he’s learned and how he’s quieted his inner perfectionist to allow his inner entrepreneur to develop living ideas.

40 minutes and 42 seconds

Tai Dixon of the Children’s Defense Fund is one of those advocates whose approach we truly admire, going from teaching to keeping the trains on track as the national director of state offices and field operations. Jason Llorenz asked about her favorite failures, her strategies for work-free weekends, and why she cautions against listening to too much advice from others — zing!

48 minutes and 28 seconds

Leaders' Table: Jim Shelton of The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative by Leadership for Educational Equity

37 minutes and 38 seconds

The Leaders’ Table Podcast will present a series of discussions with leaders in policy & advocacy who are making change and tackling educational inequity. While talking issues, we will delve into the career stories of our guests to unearth and highlight the tips and tools, the routines and practices that have lent to their impact -- so that members can identify the actionable items to use to enhance their own impact on the policy world. This week's guest, Marc Holley, evaluation unit director at the Walton Family Foundation, reflects on what attracts a foundation’s attention, the case for investing in teachers, and the importance of creating time to ask yourself the big questions in life.

38 minutes and 18 seconds

The Leaders’ Table Podcast will present a series of discussions with leaders in policy & advocacy who are making change and tackling educational inequity. While talking issues, we will delve into the career stories of our guests to unearth and highlight the tips and tools, the routines and practices that have lent to their impact -- so that members can identify the actionable items to use to enhance their own impact on the policy world. This week's guest, Amy Wilkins — senior fellow for social justice at the College Board and longtime advocate for educational equity known best for her work at the Education Trust — talks policy, patience, and professional mistakes.

40 minutes and 16 seconds

The Leaders’ Table Podcast will present a series of discussions with leaders in policy & advocacy who are making change and tackling educational inequity. While talking issues, we will delve into the career stories of our guests to unearth and highlight the tips and tools, the routines and practices that have lent to their impact -- so that members can identify the actionable items to use to enhance their own impact on the policy world. This week's guest, Jada Drew an international diversity trainer, lead consultant and owner of Social Designs — joins us on #LeadersTablePodcast to discuss how she drives change agents to be their best selves and why diversity isn’t a dirty word.

52 minutes and 8 seconds

The Leaders’ Table Podcast will present a series of discussions with leaders in policy & advocacy who are making change and tackling educational inequity. While talking issues, we will delve into the career stories of our guests to unearth and highlight the tips and tools, the routines and practices that have lent to their impact -- so that members can identify the actionable items to use to enhance their own impact on the policy world. This week's guest, Luis Avila, senior vice president of 270 Strategies and former national program director at Stand for Children, ignited our hearts and minds in his conversation on the intersection of organizing, policy, and advocacy.

39 minutes and 18 seconds

The Leaders’ Table Podcast will present a series of discussions with leaders in policy & advocacy who are making change and tackling educational inequity. While talking issues, we will delve into the career stories of our guests to unearth and highlight the tips and tools, the routines and practices that have lent to their impact -- so that members can identify the actionable items to use to enhance their own impact on the policy world. This week's guest, Aixle Aman, chief of staff for Los Angeles Unified School District Board Member Ref Rodriguez, joins The Leaders' Table for a session on getting through the red tape to get things done in policy.

43 minutes and 50 seconds

The Leaders’ Table Podcast will present a series of discussions with leaders in policy & advocacy who are making change and tackling educational inequity. While talking issues, we will delve into the career stories of our guests to unearth and highlight the tips and tools, the routines and practices that have lent to their impact -- so that members can identify the actionable items to use to enhance their own impact on the policy world. This week's guest, Nina Rees, president and CEO of the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, talks about the charter school movement, what successful coalition building can look like, and how millennials and Gen Xers can lead together.

53 minutes and 56 seconds

The Leaders’ Table Podcast will present a series of discussions with leaders in policy & advocacy who are making change and tackling educational inequity. While talking issues, we will delve into the career stories of our guests to unearth and highlight the tips and tools, the routines and practices that have lent to their impact -- so that members can identify the actionable items to use to enhance their own impact on the policy world. Our first guest, Ryan Smith of The Education Trust-West talks to us about the intersection of Black Lives Matter and Black Minds Matter and why the most important quality in a leader is the ability to hold steady.

Skip to content