The Principal Liner Notes Podcast

What does excellence sound like? In this episode of Vinyl Riffs with Sean Gaillard (shared here on Leadership Liner Notes), I revisit Steely Dan's "Aja," an album often celebrated for its remarkable musicianship and meticulous craftsmanship. While some hear perfectionism, I hear something deeper: a group of extraordinary collaborators committed to creating a masterpiece together. As I reflect on a...

Leadership Liner Notes Podcst: Season 10 Reading the Terrain: Leading with Empathy, Courage, and Authenticity with Dr. Laura K. Spencer What do The Beatles, off road driving, and leadership have in common? More than you might think. In this episode of "Leadership Liner Notes," sit down with Dr. Laura K. Spencer, educator, Chief Academic Officer, speaker, and founder of Read the Terrain, for a rich...

In this episode of Leadership Liner Notes , Sean Gaillard reflects on what happens when the band changes and how leaders respond when the familiar is gone. Drawing from albums and moments tied to The Who, Paul McCartney, and Bruce Springsteen, Sean explores how artists adapt after loss and transition while still honoring who they have been. From The Who’s Face Dances following the death of Keith M...

In this episode of Leadership Liner Notes , I reflect on Neil Diamond’s Gold , recorded live at the Troubadour in July of 1970. It is an album born in a liminal season, capturing Neil Diamond between record labels and on the edge of the creative breakthrough that would soon follow with Tap Root Manuscript . I talk about the raw power of “Lordy,” the musicians who helped shape this moment, and why...

In this season finale of Leadership Liner Notes , Sean Gaillard reflects on Grand Funk Railroad’s “Closer to Home (I’m Your Captain),” Homer’s The Odyssey , and the power of staying with the long version of leadership. Inspired by the release of Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film adaptation of The Odyssey , this episode explores endurance, belonging, curiosity, and what it means to keep leading whe...

In this episode of Leadership Liner Notes , we explore the newly released Beatles Anthology Collection and the leadership lessons embedded in its early takes, unreleased moments, and joyful imperfections. The Beatles brought out the best in one another because they believed in their vision, trusted their collaborators, worked hard, and led with joy. We reflect on the Four Riffs from The Pepper Eff...

The Return: Episode 1-"Celebrate the Moment" After a reflective pause, Sean Gaillard returns to the mic with a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of purpose. In this episode of the Leadership Liner Notes Podcast, Sean shares why now felt like the right time to come back, offering a heartfelt update on his writing, leadership journey, and the evolution from #CelebrateMonday to #CelebrateTheMomen...

In this episode of Leadership Liner Notes, Sean Gaillard reflects on the second anniversary of Now and Then, the final song by The Beatles. What began as an unfinished John Lennon demo decades ago became a testament to legacy, collaboration, and the belief that the impossible can become possible. Drawing parallels between the Beatles’ creative journey and the challenges of leadership, Sean explore...

In this episode, we explore the brief career of Nick Drake and connect to how sometimes our ideas don't always resonate when we want them to do so. What about this episode inspired you? Please share and tag me on Instagram @smgaillard or LinkedIn at Sean Gaillard.    Please be sure to subscribe to this episode and share a positive comment. It does help.  Hosted by Simplecast, an Ads...

🎙️ Summer Season Finale: Am I Cut Out For This? with Elizabeth Dampf For the final episode of our summer series, I am honored to welcome back two inspiring voices and dear friends: Elizabeth Dampf and Lauren Kaufman . Elizabeth joins us to talk about her powerful new book, Am I Cut Out For This? — a must-read for every educator who has ever wrestled with doubt, resilience, and purpose in the calli...

In this inspiring episode of Principal Liner Notes , I’m joined by the remarkable Dr. Sonia Matthew, the 2025 Maryland Assistant Principal of the Year. Dr. Matthew shares her compelling leadership journey—a story grounded in resilience, purpose, and deep commitment to students and staff. Together, we explore the vital and often under-celebrated role of the assistant principal and discuss how princ...

In this inspiring episode, I’m joined by the dynamic Dr. Rod Berger—a storyteller, connector, and relentless advocate for the human side of education. Known for his ability to amplify voices that matter in education, business, and mental health, Dr. Berger brings an eclectic perspective shaped by his background in psychology, leadership, and media. We riff on the power of authentic storytelling, t...

It’s the return of the #PrincipalLinerNotes podcast—and what better way to relaunch than with a guest who has ignited passion, creativity, and courage in classrooms and schoolhouses across the globe: Dave Burgess . In this powerful conversation, we riff on the enduring impact of Dave’s groundbreaking book, Teach Like a PIRATE , and how it lit a fire in my own journey—ultimately inspiring me to wri...

In this final episode of #PrincipalLinerNotes, I express my heartfelt gratitude for my guests and listeners. Thanks for tuning in and supporting! Stay tuned for upcoming podcast projects! Read more about my thoughts on closing shop on the podcast here: https://principallinernotes.wordpress.com/2024/10/27/so-long-to-the-principal-liner-notes-podcast/ Order my book, #ThePepperEffect, on Amazon: http...

Longtime guest and unofficial executive producer of the podcast, Lauren Kaufman, joins me one last time on #PrincipalLinerNotes. In our freewheeling conversation, we talk about many things as we always do. This is a very special episode where two friends come together and bring out the best in each other as we always do. Lauren shares here sharp insights on leadership as she always does wiht eloqu...

#PrincipalLinerNotes Podcast: Episode with Maria Galanis In this long overdue episode, I finally get to sit down for a heartfelt conversation with my good friend Maria Galanis. As the K-8 Innovation Curriculum Specialist for DPS109, Maria is a guiding light in the world of education, helping to introduce, integrate, and support innovative learning practices throughout the district. I’m incredibly...

Principal Liner Notes Podcast – Episode: Connected Conversation with Meghan Lawson In this special episode of the Principal Liner Notes Podcast, we are honored to welcome back Meghan Lawson for her 4th and final appearance. Meghan has been a cherished voice on the podcast, bringing her passion and insights to every conversation. This time, we dive deep into a topic that resonates with educators an...

Harmonee McCrea is an inspiring K-2 Principal who joins me for a connected conversation. She inspires with her leadership and her commitment to wellness. Tune in for insightful ideas for school leadership, fitness, and being grounded in well-being. Follow Harmonee on X: https://x.com/mccreah10 What about this episode inspired you? Please share and tag me on Instagram @smgaillard or LinkedIn at Sea...

Principal Martha Jaureguizar joins me for an inspiring and upbeat conversation on school leadership. She shares many ideas and lessons as an experienced principal at Kendal Lakes Elementary School in Miami, FL. I am grateful for Martha for sharing how her expertise and the #CelebrateKLE Story. Follow Martha on X: https://x.com/MTJaureguizar What about this episode inspired you? Please share and ta...

This is an impromptu bonus episode. It's the 20th anniversary of one of my favorite albums of all-time, "Brian Wilson Presents SMiLE." I share my love for this masterpiece and provide a quick leadership lesson connected to the album. I also share a little bit about the upcoming finale for this podcast series. What about this episode inspired you? Please share and tag me on Instagram @smgaillard or...

Dr. Matt Zakreski joins me for a connected conversation on Neurodiversity and building a Strengths-Based Approach. Learn More about Matt here: https://massive-virgo-12a.notion.site/Dr-Matt-Zakreski-The-Neurodiversity-Collective-dd916f285d4b488389453286c9305e5e What about this episode inspired you? Please share and tag me on Instagram @smgaillard or LinkedIn at Sean Gaillard.    Please be...

Coach Jim Johnson joins me for a connected conversation. Jim shares his expertise on leadership, team-building, and culture. Jim also talks about his book: A Coach and a Miracle: Life Lessons from a Man Who Believed in an Autistic Boy. Learn more about Jim and order his book at his website: https://coachjimjohnson.com/ Follow Jim: X: https://twitter.com/coachjimjohnson Facebook: https://www.facebo...

In the latest episode of #PrincipalLinerNotes, I’m thrilled to share a vibrant conversation with the amazing Dr. Andrea Trudeau, a true champion for literacy and belonging. We dive into the power of books, the magic of collaboration, and the heart of creating a welcoming school library for every student. Tune in to hear Dr. Trudeau's inspiring insights and feel the positive energy she brings to th...

Dr. Ryan Jackson, founder of Fit Leaders and an inspiring school leader, joins the podcast. Learn about his journey as an educator and the origin story of Fit Leaders. Follow Ryan: X: https://x.com/RyanBJackson1 IG: https://www.instagram.com/underdogsadvocate/ Learn more about #FitLeaders: https://www.fitleaders.us/ What about this episode inspired you? Please share and tag me on Instagram @smgail...

Dr. Marie Moreno joins the podcast for a Connected Conversation. Dr. Moreno is the founder of Newcomer Success, LLC. She advocates for immigrants and refugees on a worldwide level. Dr. Moreno is a former principal and educator who leads with empathy, innovation, and purpose. In 2022, Dr. Moreno was named a 2022 Time.com Innovative Educator recipient and a nominee for the 2022 World Affairs Council...