What if the biggest problem in our classrooms, companies, and families isn't communication—but the fact that no one is actually listening?

In this episode of Shine a Light, Christine Miles sits down with longtime educator and school leader Sue Szczepkowski, who has spent more than 30 years shaping how students, teachers, and families learn and grow. From the athletic fields to the classroom to leadership teams, Sue shares what she's learned about building cultures where people feel seen, understood, and motivated to do their best work.

Together, they unpack the hidden leadership lessons behind great teaching, why curiosity matters more than control, and what parents and leaders must understand about the modern distractions shaping today's kids.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why winning isn't about the scoreboard—it's about the lessons along the way
• How great leaders earn trust by knowing people's stories
• The surprising reason teachers—and leaders—are really in sales
• What parents should know about screens, attention, and raising curious kids
• How listening and curiosity can transform classrooms, teams, and relationships

If you care about leadership, parenting, education, or building stronger human connections, this conversation will challenge the way you think about listening and influence.

Because when you truly understand someone's story… everything changes.

Connect with Host Christine Miles:

Website: christinemiles.com

Instagram: @christinemiles

Connect with Sue Szczepkowski:

Lower School Head, Germantown Academy | Educator & Leadership Mentor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-szczepkowski