logo
episode-header-image
Nov 16
39m 8s

Episode 245: Belonging Begins with Us - ...

Darrin Peppard
About this episode

Partner Spotlight:

Let’s face it — leadership is complex. That’s why Darrin is proud to partner with digiCOACH, a walkthrough and coaching platform that simplifies observation and feedback so leaders can focus on what really matters — students and instruction.

Visit digiCOACH.com and mention that Darrin sent you for special partner pricing.

In Episode 245 of the Leaning Into Leadership podcast, Dr. Darrin Peppard sits down with Jayme Braida, Principal of Columbus Elementary in Chariton, Iowa, and the 2025 Iowa Elementary Principal of the Year.

Jayme opens up about her personal journey—from overcoming childhood ADHD and family trauma to becoming a passionate advocate for trauma-informed leadership, equity, and authentic connection. She shares the mindset shifts that helped her turn her challenges into strengths and how those experiences shape her leadership every single day.

Listeners will learn:

  • Why vulnerability and self-awareness are the foundation of strong leadership
  • How to foster safety and belonging for students and staff
  • Practical steps to build trauma-informed practices into everyday school culture
  • The importance of joy and purpose in sustaining long-term impact

This is an episode full of honesty, reflection, and hope—a must-listen for any leader who believes in the power of connection to drive transformation.

Connect with Jayme at jaymebraida.com

Up next
Nov 20
Episode 246: The 8-Step Framework Every Leader Needs for Difficult Conversations
<h3><strong>Sponsor Spotlight: digiCOACH</strong></h3><p>Support for today’s episode comes from digiCOACH — the walkthrough and coaching platform designed to simplify data collection, strengthen feedback, and improve instructional clarity. Visit<a href="https://digiCOACH.com" rel ... Show More
33m 7s
Nov 9
Episode 244: Clarity - A Leader’s Secret Weapon
Partner Spotlight:Let’s face it — leadership is complex. That’s why Darrin is proud to partner with digiCOACH, a walkthrough and coaching platform that simplifies observation and feedback so leaders can focus on what really matters — students and instruction.Visit digiCOACH.com a ... Show More
18m 56s
Nov 2
Episode 243: Unbreakable Leadership - Strategies for Surviving Toxic Environments with Kate Lowry
Clarity in leadership starts with visibility—and that’s exactly what DigiCoach delivers. Designed to simplify walkthroughs and feedback, DigiCoach helps school leaders build a culture of coaching rooted in trust, consistency, and growth. Collect data, identify trends, and turn ev ... Show More
32m 35s
Recommended Episodes
Jun 2025
What You Focus on Expands (Part 1)
<div class="SCXW237306020 BCX4"> <div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW237306020 BCX4"> <p class="Paragraph SCXW237306020 BCX4" data-ccp-border-bottom= "0px none #000000" data-ccp-padding-bottom="0px" data-ccp-border-between="0px none #000000" data-ccp-padding-between="0px"><span cl ... Show More
40m 43s
Jan 2025
358: The Missed Leadership Opportunity To Inspire Employees that No One Talks About → Use THIS to Your Advantage!
Discover the secret weapon most leaders overlook—a simple yet transformative tool that can inspire loyalty, rally teams, and define your legacy with just a few impactful words.If you're a high-performing leader striving for recognition and influence, understanding how to craft an ... Show More
10m 9s
Jan 2025
#114 Emotional Mastery: Handle Stress, Stay Focused, and Lead with Strength
In The Grant Mitt Podcast #114, we dive deep into Emotional Mastery—a critical skill for leaders, entrepreneurs, and high performers. 🎯 Learn how to navigate stress, anxiety, and setbacks while cultivating a thriving mindset to lead with strength and resilience. 🚀 What You'll L ... Show More
13m 13s
Oct 2024
How to Be a REAL Success (Part 2)
<div class="SCXW80825974 BCX4"> <div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW80825974 BCX4"> <p class="Paragraph SCXW80825974 BCX4" data-ccp-border-bottom= "0px none #000000" data-ccp-padding-bottom="0px" data-ccp-border-between="0px none #000000" data-ccp-padding-between="0px"><span class ... Show More
39m 21s
Feb 2025
Become a World-Class Leader
<p class="BodyA"><span class="None">In this episode, John Maxwell dives into how he became a world-class leader and offers practical steps for you to become one too!</span></p> <p class="BodyA"><span class="None">After his lesson, Mark Cole and Traci Morrow sit down to talk about ... Show More
37m 30s
Feb 2025
How to Develop Leaders
<div class="SCXW56147271 BCX0"> <div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW56147271 BCX0"> <div class="SCXW234251412 BCX4"> <div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW234251412 BCX4"> <p class="Paragraph SCXW234251412 BCX4" data-ccp-border-bottom= "0px none #000000" data-ccp-padding-bottom="0px" ... Show More
37m 40s
May 2025
Episode 1 The Pursuit of Excellence Time Management Made Simple
<span>Welcome to the very first episode of </span><em>The Pursuit of Excellence - Your Skills Training Podcast</em><span>! Today, we’re diving into one of the most critical skills for success in all aspects of life—time management. Learn how to take control of your schedule, prio ... Show More
12m 24s
Sep 2024
Struggling to Connect and Inspire as a Leader? Master Storytelling to Build Trust and Drive Action
<p>🤩Join our 1-Year Communication Skills BOOTCAMP 🤩 https://academy.explearning.co/plans/351413</p> <p><br></p> <p>✨Learn more about Explearning Academy ✨ ⁠https://academy.explearning.co⁠</p> <p><br></p> <p>🏆EXECUTIVE EXCELLENCE MASTERCLASS 🏆</p> <p>https://academy.explearnin ... Show More
1h 7m
Jul 2024
Unlock Your Potential And Do Impossible Things
Get ready for an episode that's all about breaking barriers and achieving the impossible! In this throwback mashup, you'll learn the principles and strategies that have propelled some of the most successful individuals to the top of their fields including: Stephen Scoggins share ... Show More
1h 19m
Jun 2024
How to Become a Great Leader with David Novak
Unlock the Secrets of Leadership Mastery with Ed Mylett and David Novak! Leadership isn't just a role; it's a journey of constant learning and adaptation. This week, I'm excited to host David Novak, the legendary co-founder and former CEO of Yum! Brands, on a deep dive into the ... Show More
1h 5m