It’s been SAId: Conversations on Leadership

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This May 1st episode covers week sixteen.

In this episode of the It’s Been Said podcast, Dr. Dana Schon, associate executive director of professional learning for the School Administrators of Iowa, examines why leaders should intentionally slow down. Schon discusses how a "rushed busyness" can become a harmful norm, potentially leading to physical health issues like increased heart rates and diminished analytical thinking in the prefrontal cortex. By sharing personal reflections on the "snowball effect" of rushing through a morning routine—from the shower to eating a granola bar in the car—Schon encourages listeners to reclaim their time through small, mindful practices. She suggests that by slowing down in simple tasks like washing one's face or listening to colleagues without immediately jumping in with advice, leaders can reduce stress and achieve a higher quality of life. Slow down and thoughtfully reflect on this 10-minute podcast.

In this episode of the It's Been SAId podcast, School Administrators of Iowa Executive Director Lisa Remy speaks with three Iowa school leaders about the benefits of membership in national professional organizations. The guests—Brent Jorth (AASA), Cindy Barwick (NASSP), and Dana Nally (NAESP)—highlight how these organizations provide a broader perspective beyond the state level. Key benefits discussed include: Broadened perspectives: Administrators connect with nationwide colleagues to share potential solutions for common challenges. National advocacy: Organizations offer a voice in Washington, D.C., to influence federal legislation and funding. Professional resources: Members access high-quality development through national conferences and specialized publications. Leadership and support: National groups offer expanded leadership roles and complement the localized support provided by state associations like SAI. The leaders conclude that national membership is a vital tool for professional growth and effective advocacy, ultimately benefiting Iowa's students and communities. Hear from three exceptional Iowa leaders in this 40-minute podcast.

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This April 24th episode covers week fifteen.

In this special-edition Legal Vortex of the It's Been SAId podcast, Matt Carver, SAI's legal services director, discusses the complex topic of liability for school districts and their employees. Carver balances legal caution with reassurance, detailing the protections provided by Iowa law that allow educators to focus on students rather than the fear of litigation. The discussion covers: The Iowa Municipal Tort Claims Act: This act provides immunity for districts in areas such as discretionary functions, including curriculum choices and levels of supervision. Recreational Activity Immunity: Districts generally have protection when students are injured during typical sports or playground activities, provided the equipment meets recognized standards. Employee Protections: Carver explains Iowa Code 670.8, which requires districts to defend employees acting in good faith and protects them from personal liability in most circumstances. Liability Triggers: The podcast highlights real-world examples where districts have faced liability, including significant lapses in supervision, failure to communicate attendance issues to parents, or negligent hiring practices. Reassuring Staff: Carver encourages administrators to settle the nerves of their teams, noting that while injuries are an inevitable part of the school experience, the law provides broad protection for those acting reasonably. Listen and learn a lot in this 23-minute episode.

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This April 17th episode covers week fourteen.

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This April 10th episode covers week thirteen.

In this episode of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Dana Schon, associate executive director of professional learning for School Administrators of Iowa, discusses how poorly structured meetings can negatively impact the well-being and productivity of school leaders. She emphasizes the importance of defining the purpose and expectations of meetings to improve "leadership life fit". 🎙️ Episode Resources: Redefining the "Meeting" Lousy meetings aren't just a waste of time—they are a drain on team intelligence. In this episode, inspired by Dan Rockwell’s insights, we break down how to stop the "pretend listening" and transform your gatherings into engines of productivity. 🔗 Featured Frameworks & Readings Dan Rockwell’s Blog: 5 Ways to Redefine Meetings – Exploring why meetings fail and how to fix them. The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni: Lencioni Resources – Dive deeper into why team cohesiveness is the #1 driver of organizational health. Multipliers by Liz Wiseman: The Wiseman Group – Learn how to amplify your team’s talent rather than diminishing it. 🛠️ Strategies for Engagement The 2 Cents Worth Strategy: A simple, physical way to ensure everyone is heard. Each member gets two "pennies" per round; once spent, they listen until the circle completes. The 6 Hats Strategy: A tool for testing assumptions and getting 360-degree perspective on any proposal. Learn more about the 6 Hats here. Team Agreements Process: Don't leave your meeting culture to chance. Use this Team Agreements Resource to co-create your shared standards. 💡 Key Takeaways: 5 New Definitions for Your Team To change the culture, you must change the definition. A meeting should be: A Growth Hub: Where intelligence expands and relationships actually strengthen. A Talent Maximizer: Where leaders focus on drawing out the best in others. A No-Monologue Zone: Where the "two cents" rule keeps the floor open for all. A Testing Ground: Where assumptions are challenged (not just confirmed). A Multi-Directional Web: Where the conversation flows between everyone, not just back and forth to the leader. Dana’s Final Note: "The best way to capture the team’s shared definition and conception of 'meeting' is through a formal agreements process. If you don't define the rules of engagement, the loudest voice in the room will do it for you." Listen and glean practical meeting ideas in this 12-minute podcast.

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This April 3rd episode covers week twelve.

In this special episode of the It's Been SAId podcast, Associate Executive Director of Professional Learning Dr. Dana Schon explores the transformative power of gratitude. Moving beyond the "work-life balance" cliché toward the concept of "life fit," Dr. Schon shares five practical strategies to cultivate daily appreciation: the color of the day, the green light strategy, the "first person you see" method, notes of appreciation, and gratitude journaling. The conversation delves deeper into "lived gratitude," distinguishing it from mere habitual practice. She challenges leaders to integrate gratitude into their very identity, helping them navigate stress and find joy even in difficult circumstances. The episode concludes with a practical challenge: open your contacts and send a message of appreciation to someone today. Find one practice you'd like to implement by listening to this 18-minute podcast.

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This March 27th episode covers week eleven.

In this reflective episode of It’s been SAId, Executive Director Lisa Remy hosts a roundtable discussion with retiring Iowa superintendents: Pella's Greg Ebeling, West Lyon's Shawn Kreman, and Burlington's Robert Scott. As they prepare to conclude their careers in June 2026, these veteran leaders look back on the dramatic evolution of school district leadership—from navigating increased public visibility to managing the growing complexity of modern education. The conversation dives deep into the realities of the "relentless" nature of the job, offering a rare glimpse into their most challenging moments, the skills that matter most in today's climate, and the essential strategies for building trust with boards and communities. Whether you are an aspiring administrator or a seasoned educator, this episode serves as a powerful masterclass in resilience, legacy, and the enduring hope that drives Iowa’s educational leaders. Listen to the wisdom and reflection from these three great leaders in this 45-minute podcast

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This March 20th episode covers week ten.

In this episode of the It’s Been Said Podcast, SAI Legal Services Director Matt Carver discusses some common end-of-year legal issues that school administrators face. These issues include: Dealing with student behavior and reminding staff to remain calm and professional. Navigating requests to exclude parents or family members from end-of-year celebrations. Addressing requests to use alternative names during graduation ceremonies. Managing student dress code for commencement ceremonies, especially regarding cultural or religious attire. Clarifying the legal rights of parents and school districts regarding student retention and advancement. Prepare for your next 10 weeks of classes by listening to this 15 minute podcast.

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This March 13th episode covers week nine.

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This March 6th episode covers week eight.

In this special edition episode of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Dana Schon, SAI's associate executive director of professional learning, explores the hidden drain on a leader's most valuable resource: cognitive energy. Using the relatable metaphor of a web browser cluttered with dozens of open tabs, Schon illustrates how unresolved tasks, lingering worries, and unrealistic self-expectations act as "mental tabs" that leak energy throughout the day. She challenges the traditional narrative of the "always-on" leader, encouraging listeners to "close the tabs" by setting boundaries and reframing their internal stories to achieve a better leadership life fit. Learn practical strategies to "close unneeded tabs" in this nine-minute podcast.

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This Feb. 27th episode covers week seven.

In this special episode of It’s been SAId, Executive Director Dr. Lisa Remy sits down with her successor, Dr. Brad Buck, to discuss the upcoming leadership transition at the School Administrators of Iowa. Dr. Buck, the current Waukee superintendent and long-time SAI member, will take the helm this summer. Key highlights from their conversation include: The "Spark" for Change: Brad shares the personal realization that led him to pivot from district leadership to leading the professional association. Navigating Leadership: Strategies for maintaining a non-partisan, student-centered focus in a polarized political climate. Vision for the Future: Brad outlines his first-year goals, focusing on building credibility with diverse constituents and advancing SAI’s mission to recruit and retain high-quality educational leaders. Personal Insights: A look at the books and hobbies that shape Brad’s leadership style and help him recharge. Dr. Remy expresses her confidence in the transition, noting the peace she feels leaving SAI in the hands of a leader who deeply understands the organization’s mission. Listen and learn more about Dr. Buck in this 25-minute podcast.

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This Feb. 20th episode covers week six.

As districts navigate the second semester of the 2026 school year, Legal Services Director Matt Carver provides guidance on teacher licensure, performance remediation, and the complexities of employment termination in this latest edition of the It's Been SAId podcast. The conversation focuses on the critical legal procedures involved in managing teacher performance and contracts under Iowa law. Carver emphasizes that while legal pathways like intensive assistance are designed for remediation, administrators must be vigilant about statutory deadlines and procedural rights to protect the district and ensure fair treatment of staff. Listen and learn what will help you navigate these next few months in this 24-minute podcast.

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This Feb. 6th episode covers week four.

In this special edition of the It’s Been Said podcast, Dr. Dana Schon, Associate Executive Director of Professional Learning with SAI, dives into a challenge familiar to many leaders: overthinking. From the "rethinking" that derails a morning workout to the complex rumination that follows a difficult conversation with staff or parents, Dana explores how overanalyzing can lead to decision fatigue, stress, and burnout. What You’ll Learn: The Anatomy of Overthinking: How second-guessing and over-complicating "wicked problems" can stall progress and create skepticism within your school culture. The Energy Toll: Why decision fatigue makes us more susceptible to overthinking and how it impacts your "Leadership Life Fit." 5 Practical Strategies for Clarity: * Selective Input: Managing your consumption of news and social media to reduce anxiety. The 10-10-10 Test: A mental framework to right-size problems based on their long-term impact. Routinization: Conserving mental energy by automating daily decisions. Trusting Your Gut: Reconnecting with your intuition and the powerful "neural network" of your digestive tract. The 80/20 Rule: Recognizing when a task is "well done" rather than "perfectly done" to reclaim your time. Join Dana as she shares how to stop spinning your wheels and start making productive, confident decisions that move your vision forward in this 15-minute podcast.

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This Jan. 30 episode covers week three.

In this latest episode of the It's Been SAId podcast, host Dr. Lisa Remy takes an in-depth look at the multifaceted world of the School Business Official (SBO)—a position that serves as the financial and operational backbone of a school district. While balancing the budget is a primary duty, the SBO is also a strategic leader tasked with long-range financial planning, data analytics, and operational oversight.  Dr. Remy welcomes four experts associated with the Iowa Association of School Business Officials (IASBO) to address: Defining the Role: Moving beyond simple accounting to understand how SBOs manage human resources, strategic planning, and overall school operations. Essential Skills for Success: Why leadership, critical decision-making, and effective communication are just as vital as financial expertise. The Power of Data: How successful officials use enrollment projections and multi-year revenue analysis to land their roles and guide their districts into the future. Operational Excellence: Strategies for effective resource allocation and improving efficiency through digital systems and policy compliance. Listen and learn a lot in this one-hour, comprehensive conversation.

SAI’s Government Relations Director Dave Daughton provides weekly updates on the 2026 Iowa legislative session. This Jan. 23 episode covers week two.

How prepared is your district for a surprise visit from law enforcement? SAI’s Legal Services Director Matt Carver discusses the legal "must-dos" for interviewing and detaining students or employees on campus. Key highlights: Step-by-step guidance on interacting with local and federal officers. The truth about ICE raids and their current impact on schools. Protective measures for both your staff and students. A 10-minute deep dive into the legal counsel every administrator needs today.

As the Iowa legislature begins its 2026 session, SAI Government Relations Director will provide weekly updates. This January 16th episode covers the first week of the session.

In this special edition of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Dana Schon, Associate Executive Director of Professional Learning with SAI, discusses the myth behind multitasking and productivity. In this 13-minute episode (which you should listen to while not multitasking!), she covers why multitasking negatively impacts your output and offers resources to help you reframe your time management. Enjoy this Leadership Life Fit feature!

Ready to transform your district leadership experience? Being a district leader who supports school site leaders is rewarding, but incredibly demanding. If you've been doing this complex work in isolation, it's time to find your community! We're launching a District Leadership Masterminds Group designed to provide a supportive, empowered space where you can genuinely grow.  Listen to this three-minute overview by SAI's Associate Professional Learning Director Al Neppl and learn how to sign-up for this opportunity that starts January 9th.

SAI Legal Services Director Matt Carver is usually on the other line supporting administrators through a critical legal situation. But in this year-end episode of Legal Vortex, he sets aside the complex legal challenges to share his genuine appreciation for Iowa's public education leaders. Tune in for a thoughtful, 16-minute celebration of the positive aspects and attributes that often go unrecognized in the world of school administration.

In this special edition Legislative Update with SAI Government Relations Director Dave Daughton, several key topics are addressed in this five-minute podcast. He provides a concise pre-session briefing as the 2026 Iowa Legislative Session approaches. The latest REC report shows an encouraging upward revision for FY27 revenue estimates. Daughton briefly covers the recent legislative special elections and the forthcoming 'fix' for the required HF 706 board training. Finally, he the most critical advocacy message for all education leaders: emphasizing that over $80\%$ of school expenses are dedicated to staffing, making adequate funding essential for competitiveness. Tune in for your quick recharge before the session begins on January 12th!

In the latest episode of the It’s Been SAId podcast, host Dr. Lisa Remy focuses on the question: What skills do Iowa employers really need? She welcomes Iowa Business Council (IBC) President Joe Murphy to discuss this timely topic.  Together they dive into the IBC’s newly released "Professional Proficiencies" (Communication, Resiliency, Organizational Mindset, and Tolerance for Ambiguity). Learn how these four essential attributes connect education to the modern workforce and what opportunities they create for the future of Iowa in this 37-minute podcast.

In the first podcast version of his monthly update, SAI's Government Relations Director Dave Daughton updates listeners on preparation for the 2026 Iowa Legislative Session. Listen to learn what you need to know in this seven-minute podcast.

In this special edition of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Dana Schon, associate executive director of professional learning with SAI, delves into the nature of rest, and in particular, our body's rhythms related to productivity and rest. Dana defines what ultradian rhythm is and the importance of being in tune with our rhythm so we can incorporate needed rest breaks throughout the day. She emphasizes the importance of rest for an optimal leadership-life fit. Learn more in this 15-minute podcast.

In this episode of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Lisa Remy talks with Superintendent Scott Grimes with the Ames Community School District.  Together they discuss the background and implementation of this learning model and the intended long-term outcomes. The core goal of creating a unified pathway for career exploration that begins at age four differentiates Ames from most school districts.  Learn more about how the broader Ames community supports this learning model by listening to this 27-minute podcast conversation.

Listen to Matt's November edition of Legal Vortex where he addresses decision-making as it pertains to a student’s education. He covers examples related to joint legal custody, step-parents, grandparents, and/or other significant others involved in a student’s life. He also discusses court-ordered guardianship and homeless student caregiving authorization situations. You will glean helpful advice by listening to this 17-minute podcast.

In this episode of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Lisa Remy talks with three leaders from Danville Community Schools.  “From Consequences to Connection,” shines a light on how Danville reimagined in-school suspension—not as a place for punishment, but as an opportunity for growth. The conversation covers what it takes to move from a traditional discipline model to one centered on restorative practices, social-emotional learning, and authentic accountability. Pat Wallace, Danville Superintendent, Jaci Thornburg, JH/HS Principal, and Liz Long, Curriculum Director and Dean of Students have led this shift in their own district and have seen powerful results—more than 80% of students who go through the process never return to in-school suspension.  Enjoy this in-depth 48-minute podcast conversation! Access Danville's Restorative Action Plan

Listen to Matt's October edition of Legal Vortex where he addresses the sensitive topic of employee investigations. Specifically, what should you do if you are investigating an employee who may have an unreported diagnosis or disability? He provides guidance on what questions to ask how to prioritize the safety of students, staff, and the employee. Matt covers a lot of ground in this 19-minute podcast.

In this special edition of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Dana Schon, associate executive director of professional learning with SAI, shares how you can discover how learning to say “no” can strengthen your leadership, protect your energy, and sharpen your focus on what matters most. Learn more in this 15-minute podcast.

In this special edition of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Dana Schon, associate executive director of professional learning with SAI, shares two words that can transform how you approach determining your next steps. Learn what these two simple words are in this 10-minute podcast!

In this episode of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Lisa Remy and Al Neppl, SAI's associate professional learning director, preview the new AI chatbot SAI plans to provide as a new member benefit: Your Teacher Evaluation Partner. This AI tool is being created with one goal in mind—making the evaluation process more meaningful, efficient, and supportive for administrators and teachers alike.  Listen to this 30-minute podcast to learn more about the chatbot and how it can help you as an administrator.

Listen to Matt's September edition of Legal Vortex where he delves into the timely discussion on employee speech in light of recent national, politically-charged events. He provides advice on what type of speech may result in a recommendation to a board of education for employee termination. Carver also covers the overall considerations a district must make when an employee has said, posted, or written something that may cause concern. Listen now!

In this special edition of the It's Been SAId podcast, Dr. Dana Schon, professional learning director with SAI, shares why she doesn't like the phrase "work/life balance" and encourages listeners to instead consider finding a leadership life fit.  Listen now and hear why words matter!

In this episode of It’s Been SAId, Dr. Lisa Remy talks with SAI Associate Professional Learning Director Dr. Dana Schon. Together they introduce the new Superintendent's Collaborative professional learning opportunity and share how it can help school leaders grow and connect. You'll also hear from Dr. Jennifer Perry Cheatham who will facilitate the kick-off event in October.

Revitalize your routine and embrace the day ahead! This podcast was created for SAI's 50th annual conference attendees. However, you can start any day with this short wellness wakeup session. Thanks to Jen Woodley with the Iowa Association of School Boards for leading this session. She serves as IASB's Associate Executive Director, Communications & Events. Enjoy!  

In this episode of It’s Been SAId, Dr. Lisa Remy talks with Davenport West High School Associate Principal Matthew Hassig. They explore a topic that has the possibility of changing the game for school administrators: how artificial intelligence can transform your daily work. From streamlining communication and automating repetitive tasks to using data-driven insights for stronger decision-making—AI isn't just a futuristic concept anymore. It's here, it's practical, and it's capable of freeing up your time so you can focus on what truly matters: leading strategically and supporting your school community.

In this episode of It’s Been SAId, Dr. Lisa Remy talks with North Polk Community School District Superintendent Michael Kline. They explore a topic that’s foundational to the success of any school system: educator wellness. Over the past two years, North Polk CSD has made intentional, sustained efforts to support the well-being of all staff—recognizing that when educators feel their best, they can do their best for students. 

Dr. Lisa Remy talks with our very own Government Relations Director Dave Daughton. Together, they discuss the 2025 legislative session and what districts should consider as they prepare for the 2025-26 school year.

In this episode of It’s Been SAId, Dr. Lisa Remy talks with Tom Keating and Erin Gerlich. Tom serves as the executive director of the Iowa High School Athletic Association and Erin is the executive director of the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union. Together, they provide their unique perspectives on the complex topic of the classification system. Learn how the IHSAA and IGHSAU actively partner with districts to provide resources and problem-solve to provide the best possible experience for high school students participating in athletics and activities.