https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919The Wendt Way: Principal Talks—the podcast where two school administrators (who just happen to be married) pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to lead schools, raise a family, and juggle the demands of public education in real time. 

Hosted by Brandi and Cameron, this podcast blends professional insight with personal experience. Cameron is stepping into his first lead principal role after 10 years as an assistant principal, while Brandi begins her fifth year as an assistant principal. Together, they navigate leadership challenges, share lessons learned, and laugh through the chaos of raising two kids—one entering 4th grade, the other 2nd—in a home that spans three different school districts. 

From tough conversations to culture-building strategies, parent phone calls to prom night stories, The Wendt Way is your go-to space for honest, relatable, and practical conversations about school leadership—and real life. Whether you're an aspiring administrator, a seasoned principal, or an educator just trying to survive the week, you're welcome here.

New episodes drop weekly. Subscribe and join the conversation—we’re all in this together.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>enEducationCopyright Brandi Wendthttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/d5bf48d65088e81e8f382c54ffd93e1b.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919Mon, 22 Dec 2025 02:01:09 +0000Brandi WendtBrandi Wendtbrandiwendt11@gmail.comWelcome to The Wendt Way: Principal Talks—the podcast where two school administrators (who just happen to be married) pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to lead schools, raise a family, and juggle the demands of public education in real...The Wendt Way: Principal Talks—the podcast where two school administrators (who just happen to be married) pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to lead schools, raise a family, and juggle the demands of public education in real time. 

Hosted by Brandi and Cameron, this podcast blends professional insight with personal experience. Cameron is stepping into his first lead principal role after 10 years as an assistant principal, while Brandi begins her fifth year as an assistant principal. Together, they navigate leadership challenges, share lessons learned, and laugh through the chaos of raising two kids—one entering 4th grade, the other 2nd—in a home that spans three different school districts. 

From tough conversations to culture-building strategies, parent phone calls to prom night stories, The Wendt Way is your go-to space for honest, relatable, and practical conversations about school leadership—and real life. Whether you're an aspiring administrator, a seasoned principal, or an educator just trying to survive the week, you're welcome here.

New episodes drop weekly. Subscribe and join the conversation—we’re all in this together.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>falseepisodicSupport the podcast!https://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-great-leaders-do-differently--69162105
Todd shares practical wisdom from decades as a teacher, coach, and principal, and unpacks what great leaders truly do differently. This conversation dives into leadership mindset, school culture, supporting teachers, addressing challenges with confidence, and avoiding the common mistakes even strong leaders make. 

If you’re a school leader looking for clarity, encouragement, and actionable takeaways, this episode delivers.

🎙️ The Wendt Way: Principal Talks

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69162105Mon, 22 Dec 2025 01:56:30 +0000Brandi WendtIn Episode 19 of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron sit down with Todd Whitaker—author, speaker, and one of the most influential voices in educational leadership. Todd shares practical wisdom from decades as a teacher, coach, and...
Todd shares practical wisdom from decades as a teacher, coach, and principal, and unpacks what great leaders truly do differently. This conversation dives into leadership mindset, school culture, supporting teachers, addressing challenges with confidence, and avoiding the common mistakes even strong leaders make. 

If you’re a school leader looking for clarity, encouragement, and actionable takeaways, this episode delivers.

🎙️ The Wendt Way: Principal Talks

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>2604culture,education,educationalleadership,leadership,principal,school,toddwhitakerfalse119fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leading-with-purpose-a-conversation-with-dr-jared-smith--69048954
Dr. Smith shares his leadership journey—from educator to district leader—and offers insight into leading one of Iowa’s largest and most diverse school systems. Together, they discuss district culture, equity-driven leadership, supporting principals, community trust, and what it really means to lead with purpose at the systems level.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in district leadership, continuous learning, and the human side of educational leadership.

🎙️ The Wendt Way: Principal Talks

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69048954Mon, 15 Dec 2025 02:51:35 +0000Brandi WendtIn Episode 18 of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron sit down with Dr. Jared Smith, Superintendent of the Waterloo Community School District. Dr. Smith shares his leadership journey—from educator to district leader—and offers insight...
Dr. Smith shares his leadership journey—from educator to district leader—and offers insight into leading one of Iowa’s largest and most diverse school systems. Together, they discuss district culture, equity-driven leadership, supporting principals, community trust, and what it really means to lead with purpose at the systems level.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in district leadership, continuous learning, and the human side of educational leadership.

🎙️ The Wendt Way: Principal Talks

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>2485districtleadership,education,educationalleadership,leadership,schoolleadership,superintendentfalse118fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-17-leading-at-scale-a-conversation-with-ryan-woods-johnston-high-school--68713497
Ryan shares how he builds trust in a big system, supports teachers through change, and helps students find their voice and purpose in a fast-paced environment. From culture and communication to staff morale and student engagement, Ryan’s perspective is a masterclass in leadership with heart and strategy.

And of course, we wrap up with a “Johnston Olympics” question that puts Ryan’s competitive spirit to the test.

🎧 Listen now — and hear what it takes to lead with balance, humility, and vision.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68713497Mon, 24 Nov 2025 01:19:17 +0000Brandi WendtIn this episode of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron sit down with Ryan Woods, Principal at Johnston High School, to talk about leading one of the largest and most dynamic schools in Iowa. Ryan shares how he builds trust in a big...
Ryan shares how he builds trust in a big system, supports teachers through change, and helps students find their voice and purpose in a fast-paced environment. From culture and communication to staff morale and student engagement, Ryan’s perspective is a masterclass in leadership with heart and strategy.

And of course, we wrap up with a “Johnston Olympics” question that puts Ryan’s competitive spirit to the test.

🎧 Listen now — and hear what it takes to lead with balance, humility, and vision.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>1732education,educationalleadership,highschool,highschoolprincipal,leadership,schoolleadership,schoolprincipalfalse117fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leading-with-legacy-a-conversation-with-dr-lisa-remy--68290392
After decades of service in Iowa education, Dr. Remy recently announced her plans to retire at the end of SAI’s fiscal year next August. In this heartfelt conversation, she reflects on her leadership journey, the lessons she’s learned, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.

From her years as superintendent in West Des Moines to her role leading SAI, Lisa shares wisdom on mentorship, relationships, and leading with heart. This episode is part celebration, part reflection, and all inspiration.

🎧 Listen now and join us in honoring a true champion for Iowa’s school leaders.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68290392Mon, 27 Oct 2025 00:26:56 +0000Brandi WendtIn Episode 15 of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron sit down with Dr. Lisa Remy, Executive Director of the School Administrators of Iowa (SAI) — a leader whose impact reaches every corner of the state. After decades of service in Iowa...
After decades of service in Iowa education, Dr. Remy recently announced her plans to retire at the end of SAI’s fiscal year next August. In this heartfelt conversation, she reflects on her leadership journey, the lessons she’s learned, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.

From her years as superintendent in West Des Moines to her role leading SAI, Lisa shares wisdom on mentorship, relationships, and leading with heart. This episode is part celebration, part reflection, and all inspiration.

🎧 Listen now and join us in honoring a true champion for Iowa’s school leaders.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>1461educationalleadership,highschoolprincipal,leadership,principal,sai,schooladministrator,schooladministratorsofiowa,schoolleadership,superintendentfalse115fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/finding-and-building-great-leaders-a-conversation-with-dr-trent-grundmeyer--68207235
From his experiences as a principal, professor, and consultant, Trent shares what districts are looking for in strong candidates, what separates the good from the great in interviews, and why leadership is ultimately about fit, reflection, and growth.

Whether you’re an aspiring leader or a veteran administrator looking to sharpen your skills, this episode is full of practical insight (and a few laughs along the way).

🎧 Listen now — available wherever you get your podcasts.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68207235Sun, 19 Oct 2025 23:16:58 +0000Brandi WendtIn Episode 14 of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron sit down with Dr. Trent Grundmeyer, owner of Grundmeyer Leader Services, to talk about what it really takes to find and grow great leaders in Iowa’s schools. From his experiences as...
From his experiences as a principal, professor, and consultant, Trent shares what districts are looking for in strong candidates, what separates the good from the great in interviews, and why leadership is ultimately about fit, reflection, and growth.

Whether you’re an aspiring leader or a veteran administrator looking to sharpen your skills, this episode is full of practical insight (and a few laughs along the way).

🎧 Listen now — available wherever you get your podcasts.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>1695aspiringadministrator,education,hiring,hiringprocess,leadership,principal,schoolleadership,schoolprincipal,superintendentfalse114fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leading-learners-a-conversation-with-al-neppl-from-sai--68112452
Al shares his journey through education and how his current work supports leaders across the state. Together, we dive into what meaningful professional learning looks like, how leaders can stay grounded while continuing to grow, and why investing in your own learning is one of the most powerful ways to support your team.

If you’re an educator or administrator looking for inspiration and reflection as the school year gets underway, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now on The Wendt Way: Principal Talks.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68112452Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:25:46 +0000Brandi WendtIn Episode 13 of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron sit down with sAl Neppl, Associate Professional Learning Director for the School Administrators of Iowa (SAI).  Al shares his journey through education and how his current work...
Al shares his journey through education and how his current work supports leaders across the state. Together, we dive into what meaningful professional learning looks like, how leaders can stay grounded while continuing to grow, and why investing in your own learning is one of the most powerful ways to support your team.

If you’re an educator or administrator looking for inspiration and reflection as the school year gets underway, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now on The Wendt Way: Principal Talks.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>2138aspiringadmin,aspiringadministrator,education,educationalleadership,educators,highschoolprincipal,principal,professionaldevelopment,sai,schooladministratorsofiowa,schoolleadershipfalse113fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leading-with-heart-a-conversation-with-laura-skeel--67934098
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67934098Sun, 28 Sep 2025 23:54:50 +0000Brandi WendtIn this episode of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron sit down with Laura Skeel, Principal of Perry Elementary in Perry, Iowa. Laura shares her journey into leadership, her approach to creating a positive and resilient school culture,...
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>1268aspiringadmin,aspiringadministrator,education,elementaryeducation,elementaryprincipal,leadership,perryelementary,perryiowa,principal,resiliency,school,schoolculture,schoolleadership,schoolprincipalfalse112fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/life-after-high-school-with-conner-williams--67843520
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67843520Sun, 21 Sep 2025 22:30:07 +0000Brandi WendtIn this episode, we sit down with our nephew, Conner Williams, a brand-new Simpson College freshman who just graduated high school in May. Conner shares his perspective on the big transition from high school to college, why it’s okay not to have...
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>1131careerpath,collegefreshman,collegetransition,education,highschool,highschoolgraduation,lifeafterhighschool,motivationforstudents,principaltalks,studentvoice,thewendtwayfalse111fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-we-ve-learned-so-far-leadership-culture-and-real-talk--67773182
Brandi and Cameron take a pause to reflect on what they’ve learned from their first five guests: Matt Blackmore, Wade Grinhaug, Shane Christensen, Adam Busch, and Mitch Kuhnert.

From leadership priorities and professional learning to culture, advice for new administrators, and even some unforgettable stories (yes, suspensions handled by Jack Sparrow made the list), this recap episode ties together the big takeaways with plenty of laughter and honesty.

Tune in for lessons you can take back to your own school—and a reminder that leadership is about heart, humor, and humanity.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67773182Tue, 16 Sep 2025 02:05:50 +0000Brandi WendtEpisode 10 marks a milestone for The Wendt Way: Principal Talks! Brandi and Cameron take a pause to reflect on what they’ve learned from their first five guests: Matt Blackmore, Wade Grinhaug, Shane Christensen, Adam Busch, and Mitch Kuhnert. From...
Brandi and Cameron take a pause to reflect on what they’ve learned from their first five guests: Matt Blackmore, Wade Grinhaug, Shane Christensen, Adam Busch, and Mitch Kuhnert.

From leadership priorities and professional learning to culture, advice for new administrators, and even some unforgettable stories (yes, suspensions handled by Jack Sparrow made the list), this recap episode ties together the big takeaways with plenty of laughter and honesty.

Tune in for lessons you can take back to your own school—and a reminder that leadership is about heart, humor, and humanity.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>1172education,educationalleadership,leadership,principalfalse110fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/supporting-every-student-with-adam-busch--67658751
Adam shares what it’s like to prepare for a new school year at the district level—balancing big-picture systems with the individual needs of students and families. He talks about urgent priorities in student services, strategies for communication across schools, and what “whole child” support really looks like in practice.

We also ask Adam a couple fun questions: what’s the funniest student request he’s ever heard, and if he could design a student services superhero, what powers they’d have.

🎧 A must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, equity, and supporting every student.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67658751Sun, 07 Sep 2025 23:00:07 +0000Brandi WendtIn this episode of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, we sit down with Adam Busch, Director of Student Services for Johnston Community School District. Adam shares what it’s like to prepare for a new school year at the district level—balancing...
Adam shares what it’s like to prepare for a new school year at the district level—balancing big-picture systems with the individual needs of students and families. He talks about urgent priorities in student services, strategies for communication across schools, and what “whole child” support really looks like in practice.

We also ask Adam a couple fun questions: what’s the funniest student request he’s ever heard, and if he could design a student services superhero, what powers they’d have.

🎧 A must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, equity, and supporting every student.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>1374education,educationalleadership,elementary,highschool,leadership,middleschool,principal,school,schoolleadership,studentservicesfalse19fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/junior-high-matters-leading-through-the-transition-years--67580837

The biggest priorities before the first day of school

How to design professional development that’s meaningful for staff

A strategy for setting positive school culture from day one

Advice for brand-new administrators

And of course, we wrap up with some fun: the funniest thing Mitch has experienced during the first week of school, and how they’d describe junior high in just three words.

🎧 A must-listen for educators, school leaders, and anyone who believes junior high matters.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67580837Mon, 01 Sep 2025 13:14:54 +0000Brandi WendtIn this episode of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, we sit down with Mitch Kuhnert, principal of Stilwell Junior High School, to talk about the unique challenges and opportunities of leading a junior high. We cover: - The biggest priorities before the...

The biggest priorities before the first day of school

How to design professional development that’s meaningful for staff

A strategy for setting positive school culture from day one

Advice for brand-new administrators

And of course, we wrap up with some fun: the funniest thing Mitch has experienced during the first week of school, and how they’d describe junior high in just three words.

🎧 A must-listen for educators, school leaders, and anyone who believes junior high matters.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>931aspiringleaders,assistantprincipals,backtoschoolfun,backtoschoolleadership,educationalleadership,educationhumor,educationpodcast,educators,juniorhighleadership,juniorhighschool,k12leadership,principallife,professionaldevelopment,schoolculture,schoolleadership,teachers,transitionyearsfalse18fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/starting-strong-a-superintendent-s-first-90-days-with-wade-grinhaug--67499286
In this episode of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, we sit down with Wade Grinhaug, who began his first role as superintendent on July 1st.

Wade shares his biggest priorities heading into year one, what he’s learned during the summer transition period, and how he’s working to build relationships and set a positive district-wide culture from day one. He also offers valuable advice for new administrators stepping into leadership.

To wrap things up, we ask Wade a couple of fun questions—including which celebrity he’d choose to give the district’s first-day welcome speech, and the most surprising thing he’s learned so far as a superintendent.

🎧 A great listen for school leaders, aspiring administrators, and anyone curious about leadership at the district level.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67499286Sun, 24 Aug 2025 23:14:30 +0000Brandi WendtEpisode 7 – Starting Strong: A Superintendent’s First 90 Days with Wade Grinhaug In this episode of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, we sit down with Wade Grinhaug, who began his first role as superintendent on July 1st. Wade shares his biggest...
In this episode of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, we sit down with Wade Grinhaug, who began his first role as superintendent on July 1st.

Wade shares his biggest priorities heading into year one, what he’s learned during the summer transition period, and how he’s working to build relationships and set a positive district-wide culture from day one. He also offers valuable advice for new administrators stepping into leadership.

To wrap things up, we ask Wade a couple of fun questions—including which celebrity he’d choose to give the district’s first-day welcome speech, and the most surprising thing he’s learned so far as a superintendent.

🎧 A great listen for school leaders, aspiring administrators, and anyone curious about leadership at the district level.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>2057aspiringleaders,backtoschoolfun,backtoschoolleadership,districtleadership,education,educators,firstyearsuperintendent,leadership k12,leadership podcast,podcast educational,principals,schooladministrators,schooldistrictculture,schoolleadership,schoolyearsurprises,superintendent,superintendentinterview,superintendentleadership,superintendentlife,teachersfalse17fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/back-to-school-at-valley-high-school-with-shane-christensen--67410586
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67410586Mon, 18 Aug 2025 01:08:50 +0000Brandi WendtWe sit down with Shane Christensen, principal of Valley High School, to talk back-to-school leadership, PD that works, and building culture. Plus, Cameron’s connection to Shane at Indian Hills, hype songs, and spirit week fun.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>1748backtoschool,education,educationalleadership,educationpodcast,highschoolleadership,newadministrators,podcast,principallife,principalship,professionaldevelopment,schooladministration,schoolculture,schoolleadership,schoolspirit,schoolyearprep,teacherpd,valleyhighschoolfalse16fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/back-to-school-leadership-with-matt-blackmore--67308503
Matt talks about his biggest back-to-school priorities, how he designs professional development that staff actually find useful, and his go-to strategy for building a positive school culture from day one. He also offers valuable advice for brand-new administrators starting this year.

And of course—we wrap up with a couple of fun questions, including the weirdest thing he’s experienced during back-to-school season and which classic school lunch item he’d bring back if he could.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67308503Sun, 10 Aug 2025 23:00:07 +0000Brandi WendtIn our first guest episode, we welcome Matt Blackmore, principal of DCG High School, to share his insights on preparing for a successful school year. Matt talks about his biggest back-to-school priorities, how he designs professional development that...
Matt talks about his biggest back-to-school priorities, how he designs professional development that staff actually find useful, and his go-to strategy for building a positive school culture from day one. He also offers valuable advice for brand-new administrators starting this year.

And of course—we wrap up with a couple of fun questions, including the weirdest thing he’s experienced during back-to-school season and which classic school lunch item he’d bring back if he could.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>1133false15fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pd-without-the-eye-rolls-building-culture-before-day-one--67240412
They also give a peek into life at home as a three-district household and share a funny mix-up about PowerPoint vs. Google Slides (spoiler: PowerPoint doesn’t actually age you). Plus, a preview of next week’s first guest—an administrator sharing back-to-school planning tips.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67240412Sun, 03 Aug 2025 23:56:42 +0000Brandi WendtIn this episode, Brandi and Cameron share how they’re planning meaningful professional development before students return on August 25th. They discuss strategies for making PD energizing instead of monotonous, the importance of building culture early,...
They also give a peek into life at home as a three-district household and share a funny mix-up about PowerPoint vs. Google Slides (spoiler: PowerPoint doesn’t actually age you). Plus, a preview of next week’s first guest—an administrator sharing back-to-school planning tips.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>252false14fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mic-check-one-two-prepping-for-back-to-school-podcast-growing-pains--67147545
In this episode of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron get real about what summer looks like for school leaders—because the work doesn’t start in August.

From creating master schedules and planning PD to navigating leadership transitions and setting the tone for the year, they share what’s happening behind the scenes as they prep for the August 25th student start.

You’ll also hear:
🎙️ Some hilarious podcasting mishaps (let’s just say… someone forgot to hit “record”)
🏡 What it’s like managing two admin jobs, two kids, and three school districts in one household
🎯 Tips for setting vision and culture before the chaos of back-to-school hits

It’s honest, a little messy, and full of laughs—and we’re glad you’re on this journey with us.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67147545Mon, 28 Jul 2025 01:26:52 +0000Brandi WendtEpisode 3 – “Mic Check, One Two: Prepping for Back-to-School & Podcast Growing Pains” In this episode of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron get real about what summer looks like for school leaders—because the work doesn’t start in...
In this episode of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron get real about what summer looks like for school leaders—because the work doesn’t start in August.

From creating master schedules and planning PD to navigating leadership transitions and setting the tone for the year, they share what’s happening behind the scenes as they prep for the August 25th student start.

You’ll also hear:
🎙️ Some hilarious podcasting mishaps (let’s just say… someone forgot to hit “record”)
🏡 What it’s like managing two admin jobs, two kids, and three school districts in one household
🎯 Tips for setting vision and culture before the chaos of back-to-school hits

It’s honest, a little messy, and full of laughs—and we’re glad you’re on this journey with us.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>301false13fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/starting-strong-building-your-first-90-days-as-a-principal--67064292
This week, Cameron shares what the first 90 days as a brand-new principal look like—his entry plan, key priorities, surprises, and how he’s building trust from day one.

👨‍🏫 Listening first
🤝 Building relationships
✅ Setting clear expectations

Plus, we talk about what it’s like running three school districts under one roof 🏫🏡👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67064292Tue, 22 Jul 2025 00:50:53 +0000Brandi WendtEpisode 2 of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks is LIVE! 🙌 This week, Cameron shares what the first 90 days as a brand-new principal look like—his entry plan, key priorities, surprises, and how he’s building trust from day one. 👨‍🏫 Listening first 🤝...
This week, Cameron shares what the first 90 days as a brand-new principal look like—his entry plan, key priorities, surprises, and how he’s building trust from day one.

👨‍🏫 Listening first
🤝 Building relationships
✅ Setting clear expectations

Plus, we talk about what it’s like running three school districts under one roof 🏫🏡👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>299false12fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/new-role-new-chapter-the-leap-from-ap-to-principal--66828003The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron kick things off with a big announcement—Cameron is stepping into his first role as a lead principal after 10 years as an assistant principal! With July 1st right around the corner, the two reflect on the transition, the excitement (and nerves) that come with it, and what it means to take the lead in a new building.

They also get personal—sharing what it’s like to balance school leadership with raising two kids, entering 4th and 2nd grade, and managing life under one roof while representing three different school districts.

Tune in for real talk, some laughs, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to lead in schools and at home. If you’re an educator, school leader, or someone trying to keep all the plates spinning—this episode is for you.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66828003Wed, 02 Jul 2025 02:06:30 +0000Brandi Wendtn this debut episode of The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron kick things off with a big announcement—Cameron is stepping into his first role as a lead principal after 10 years as an assistant principal! With July 1st right around the...The Wendt Way: Principal Talks, Brandi and Cameron kick things off with a big announcement—Cameron is stepping into his first role as a lead principal after 10 years as an assistant principal! With July 1st right around the corner, the two reflect on the transition, the excitement (and nerves) that come with it, and what it means to take the lead in a new building.

They also get personal—sharing what it’s like to balance school leadership with raising two kids, entering 4th and 2nd grade, and managing life under one roof while representing three different school districts.

Tune in for real talk, some laughs, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to lead in schools and at home. If you’re an educator, school leader, or someone trying to keep all the plates spinning—this episode is for you.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-wendt-way-principal-talks--6672919/support.]]>258administration,assistantprincipal,edadmin,education,educationalleadership,k12education,k12schools,leadership,leadprincipal,schooleadership,schools,worklifebalancefalse11full