Beyond the Bell - Leading with Purpose

In this episode of Beyond the Bell: Leading with Purpose, hosts Dr. Jim Cummins and Dr. Nathan Manley sit down with Dr. Michael Maclin, Superintendent of the Special School District of St. Louis County — a district serving over 25,000 students and employing nearly 6,000 educators and staff.
Dr. Maclin brings deep experience as a counselor, principal, and national consultant for large districts including Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Dallas. He discusses his leadership philosophy rooted in empathy over sympathy, the importance of leading through relationships, and the delicate balance between compassion and accountability. Listeners will hear powerful reflections on: Building trust and transparency in board–superintendent relationships Leading large, complex systems with integrity and purpose Maintaining personal balance while serving others Lessons from decades in education leadership — including his TEDx experience This inspiring conversation shines a light on how “people first” leadership can transform schools and strengthen communities.
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Join LiftED co-founders, Dr. Nathan Manley and Dr. Jim Cummins, as they share the inspiration behind Beyond the Bell - Leading with Purpose. This episode sets the stage for future interviews with leaders and pulls back on the curtain on their purpose and motivation.