The Interview Chair

Episode 104: Taking Inventory of Our Work

In this episode, Dr. Rick Fernandez shares his insights on the importance of philosophical alignment among staff, the impact of experience on leadership roles, and the significance of perception in the educational environment. Dr. Fernandez also highlights his current work in career and technical education and offers advice for those struggling in their educational careers.

Episode 103: Remembering Where You Came From

In this conversation, Van Ayres, superintendent of Hillsborough County Schools, shares his journey from student to leading the 7th largest school district in the country. Van reflects on the challenges and responsibilities of being a Superintendent, highlighting the need for collaboration, community engagement, building a supportive team, and ensuring student voices are heard. 

Episode 102: Leveling Up Learning Through Innovation

In this episode, Laura Williams, a 21st-century learning specialist, shares her journey through personal and professional challenges, emphasizing the importance of authentic learning experiences in education and how educators can embrace change and innovation in their classrooms. Laura also highlights the role of agile practices in enhancing student engagement and accountability, and encourages educators to pursue their passions fearlessly.

Episode 101: The Importance of Relational Intelligence

In this episode, Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket shares her journey as a principal, discussing the importance of relational intelligence in school leadership, advocating for trust, connection, and collaboration to foster a positive school culture. In addition, she offers valuable advice for educators struggling with their mental health, encouraging them to lean on their resources and recognize that challenges are often temporary.

Episode 100: Celebrating 100 Episodes of Educational Impact

Join Jimmy Casas, Jonathan Alsheimer, Erika Bare, and Jessica Cabeen as they take you back to The Interview Chair. Together they share different perspectives on how every interaction has the power to make a lasting impact.

Episode 99: Before the Bell Rings

Jimmy shares ways to set yourself up for success each morning so you can lead with clarity and purpose all day long.

Episode 98: Making This the Best Year Yet!

In this episode, Jimmy goes back to The Interview Chair and shares 3 ways you can focus on making this the best year yet!

Episode 97: The 3 Gold Standards for Educators

In this episode, Kelly Croy shares his journey in education, discussing the challenges he faced transitioning from a classroom teacher to a district administration, including imposter syndrome. He addresses the anxiety many educators experience and offers advice to navigate these feelings while maintaining a focus on personal growth, including the three gold standards he strives to live by. 

Episode 96: Taking Ownership

In this episode, JImmy interviews the 2025 National High School Principal of the Year, Toni Cattani.  Tony shares his experience with isolation and the pressures faced by many school leaders to be everything for everyone, sometimes causing them to question whether they can continue doing this work. Listen to how Tony found his way back to become a nationally recognized leader. 

Episode 95: Maintaining a Serendipity Mindset

In this engaging conversation, Allyson Apsey shares her journey as an educator and school leader, emphasizing the importance of a serendipity mindset and the impact of trauma on students and staff. She emphasizes the significance of knowing your core values and the importance of believing in oneself.