The Empowered Principal® Podcast

Ep #438: The Future of Education: Emotional Intelligence in Leadership with Melanie Ann Layer

May 19, 2026

As educational leaders, we're constantly looking for new ways to inspire change, innovation, and growth within our schools. But what if the answer to transforming education lies not just in new programs or strategies, but in how we approach the very essence of leadership?    In this episode, I have a deeply insightful conversation with Melanie Ann Layer, CEO and founder of Alpha Femme. Together, we dive into the vision for the future of education, the integration of emotional intelligence and...

Ep #437: Rebuilding Your Leadership Identity After Being Released from Your Position

May 12, 2026

Being released from a leadership position can feel deeply personal, shaking not only your career path but also your sense of identity, confidence, and future.     In this episode, I explore the emotional and professional realities school leaders face when they are released from their position. I break down how experiences like shame, fear, self-doubt, and uncertainty can impact your nervous system, leadership identity, and decision-making. More importantly, I share how to process these challe...

Ep #436: The Science of Handwriting: Why It Still Matters for Student Success with Holly Britton

May 05, 2026

Handwriting may be one of the most underestimated foundations of student success in today's educational landscape.         In this episode, I sit down with handwriting expert and Squiggle Squad founder Holly Britton to explore the science of handwriting and why it remains an essential part of literacy, brain development, and student learning. We unpack the difference between handwriting as simple penmanship versus handwriting as a critical transcription skill, and why developmentally appropri...