Leaning into Leadership

Episode 225: Creating High Performing Leadership Teams with the AWESOME Framework


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In this solo episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard shares the framework and mindset behind truly effective leadership teams. Drawing on his work from coast to coast, including a recent workshop at the Innovative Schools Summit in Nashville, Darrin explains why high-performing leadership teams don’t happen by accident—they’re built with clarity, trust, and purpose.

Through powerful stories and practical takeaways, Darrin walks you through his AWESOME framework, a leadership model that has helped schools and districts across the country move from dysfunction to alignment. Whether you're leading a building or a district, this episode offers actionable insights to help your team become more aligned, accountable, and impactful.

In This Episode:
  • What separates great leadership teams from the ones that just get by
  • The most common traits of ineffective teams (misalignment, lack of trust, unclear roles)
  • How to implement the AWESOME Teams Framework:
  • Accept the challenge
  • Welcome feedback and support
  • Examine your priorities
  • Stand on your values
  • Operate intentionally
  • Model what you expect
  • Engage in reflection
  • Why team norms and trust are essential for collaboration
  • How to align your leadership team around shared instructional goals
  • The value of team retreats and neutral-facilitated reflection

Memorable Quotes:“If I want a better WE, I’ve got to be a better ME.”“Great leadership teams aren’t built by accident. They’re built on purpose.”“Be the thermostat, not the thermometer—set the tone instead of just reflecting it.”Resources & Links:
  • RoadToAwesome.net – Website
  • The Principal Academy – Online leadership course
  • Blog: Road to Awesome – Weekly leadership insights
  • Book: Road to Awesome: The Journey of a Leader
  • Book: Culture First Classrooms

Connect with Darrin:
  • Instagram/Facebook: Darrin M Peppard
  • TikTok/X: @DarrinMPeppard
  • LinkedInDarrin Peppard
  • Leadership RetreatsContact via Road to Awesome

Call to Action:
  • Share this episode with your leadership team and start a conversation about how you work together.
  • Reflect: What is one step your team will take this week to become more aligned and intentional?
  • Looking for a leadership retreat or customized support for your team? Reach out to Darrin to schedule your session.

...more
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Leaning into LeadershipBy Darrin Peppard

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