In this episode, Dr. Darrin Peppard is joined by Dr. Kacy Shahid and Dr. Kevin Lein, members of NASSP’s Principal Recovery Network. They share their personal journeys through tragedy, the lessons they’ve learned, and the hope they bring to school leaders everywhere.

Key Themes

• Leading through crisis and recovery
• The role of empathy, vulnerability, and preparation
• How the Principal Recovery Network supports school leaders
• The Principal Recovery Network Guide and how it helps communities heal
• Why “heartening schools” is as important as hardening them
• Practical advice for leaders on rest, trust, and courage

About the Guests

Dr. Kacy Shahid transitioned from substitute teacher to principal in six years, eventually leading her alma mater, Central Visual and Performing Arts High School in St. Louis. After experiencing the tragedy of a school shooting in 2022, she found renewed purpose in advocacy and healing. She is the author of Know Your Place, Run Your Race and the 90-day journal HEARTWORK. She currently serves as a Strategic Advisor and Community Engagement Lead in Higher Education.

📌 Connect: LinkedIn | Instagram/Twitter: @DrKacyShahid | Facebook: Kacy Shahid

Dr. Kevin Lein is an assistant professor at Wayne State College (NE) with over 35 years of experience in education as a teacher, coach, principal, and higher education leader. A survivor of a school shooting, Dr. Lein has become a leading advocate for personalized learning, system reform, and safe schools. He is a founding member of the Principal Recovery Network and a national voice for heart-centered leadership.