In this episode, Cindy Finn, Director General of Lester B. Pearson School Board in Canada, shares insights from her leadership journey and discusses her approach to educational leadership. Notably, she emphasizes on the importance of people-oriented leadership, supporting and empowering her team, and maintaining good communication. Cindy also speaks about the dual benefits and challenges of the bilingual programs offered in the English-speaking network of Quebec and how she navigated leading her school district during a pandemic. Moreover, she encourages maintaining open-mindedness and curiosity for personal and professional growth.


00:00 Introduction and Leadership Philosophy
01:01 Transition to Online Learning
01:19 Launching Season Two of the Canadian Ed Leadership Show
01:46 Interview with Director General Cindy Finn
02:36 Cindy Finn's Unconventional Rise to Leadership
03:35 Overview of Lester B. Pearson School Board
07:13 Unique Aspects of Quebec's Education System
13:18 Challenges and Opportunities of Bilingual Education
18:25 Leadership Challenges During the Pandemic
25:20 Sponsor Message from Advanced Learning Partnerships
25:38 Unconventional Path to School Leadership
30:22 Advice for Aspiring Leaders
31:14 The Journey to Administrative Leadership
32:10 Embracing Opportunities and Lifelong Learning
32:25 Advice for Aspiring Educators
33:25 Reflections on Career Progression
35:27 Gratitude and Shout-outs in Education
39:51 The Power of Checking In
40:48 Leisure Reading and Podcast Recommendations
43:39 Exploring Reality TV and Nature
48:49 Discovering Montreal's Hidden Gems
52:16 The Impact of Capturing Moments and Finding Joy