Jacob Geller

Leadership Voices

Education EN ↓ 6 episodes

Discover innovative approaches, insights, & impactful work being done across the nation to advance K-12 education.

Author

Jacob Geller

Episodes

Students First, Systems Strong with Dr. Ryan Smith at Bellflower Unified School District 10.04.2026 49:08

In this episode of Leadership Voices, host Jacob Geller sits down with Dr. Ryan Smith, Deputy Superintendent of Bellflower Unified School District, to explore what it really takes to lead systems while staying grounded in students. Ryan shares a powerful journey that began not with a clear plan, but with a love for basketball, mentorship, and a willingness to take opportunities as they came. From...

Scaling Impact: District-Level Leadership and Innovations in Special Education with Dr. Sanzeri 23.02.2026 41:57

In this episode of Leadership Voices, host Jacob Geller sits down with Dr. Christopher Sanzeri, Assistant Director of Specialized Student Services – Curriculum & Instruction in Elgin Area School District U-46, the second largest district in Illinois. Christopher opens up about his path from student-athlete and aspiring social studies teacher to special education leader, sharing how a paraeduca...

Beyond Academics: Supporting Students and Staff as Whole Humans in Education Leadership 04.02.2026 38:46

In this episode of Leadership Voices, host Jacob Geller is joined by Dr. Natasha Baker, Superintendent of Norwalk–La Mirada Unified School District, for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, equity, wellness, and building systems that truly serve students and staff. Just over a year into her superintendency, Dr. Baker reflects on listening deeply to her community, setting clear academic an...

Leadership Lessons & The Pulse of Possibility from 36 Years in Education with Dr. Doyle 26.01.2026 41:33

In today’s episode of Leadership Voices, host Jacob Geller sits down with Dr. Matt Doyle, Superintendent of Vista Unified School District in San Diego County, California. A lifelong educator who has spent nearly his entire career in Vista Unified, Dr. Doyle shares his path from bilingual teacher to superintendent, plus a surprising chapter as a professional musician who helped form a mariachi band...

The Power of Leading With Purpose: A Conversation with Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark 11.12.2025 53:58

In this episode of Leadership Voices, host Jacob Geller sits down with Dr. Adam Clark, Superintendent of Mount Diablo Unified School District, to explore what it truly means to lead with purpose, transparency, and unwavering belief in students. From navigating diverse communities to making data-driven decisions rooted in equity and care, Dr. Clark shares a candid look at the challenges and joys of...

Teaching Kids How to Think, Not What to Think with John Martin, Superintendent of Hallsville ISD 01.12.2025 52:39

In today’s first episode of Leadership Voices , host Jacob Geller sits down with John Martin, Superintendent of Hallsville Independent School District in Northeast Texas. A lifelong learner and former coach turned superintendent, John shares his journey from the football field to district leadership, highlighting how reflection, teamwork, and purpose define his approach to education. Together, the...