S2, Ep 2 Leader Journeys: Sarah Brown, PhD

Kathleen Wisemandle interviews Sarah Brown, PhD, as the first guest on The Leader Journeys podcast, sharing how they met through a former community for leaders ready for a new chapter. Sarah, a school psychologist with a PhD and a two-time (soon three-time) author, describes her current threefold work: writing, speaking, and partnering closely with schools to improve outcomes by strengthening systems and supporting teachers, with a focus on ensuring all children learn to read. Her best-selling books are:* Effective Universal Instruction* MTSS for Reading ImprovementShe contrasts this with her prior role in educational technology and assessment, and explains her pivot was driven by valuing time differently after her father’s death, Zoom-heavy workdays, a desire for flexibility, and the need to write a book. They discuss fears about perception and steady work, boundary-setting, motivators like problem-solving and planning, inspirations and mentors, advice to treat experiences as building blocks, and Sarah’s “lightning round” preferences and non-negotiables. Get full access to The Rooted Leader at aspiretogrow.substack.com/subscribe