In this episode of the Help 100 Schools Podcast, we are joined by  Dare to Lead facilitator, consultant with Educational Directions, and former head of school guest Nicole McDermott. Together, we explore why authenticity, courage, and vulnerability are not just leadership buzzwords—but essential ingredients for thriving school communities.

Drawing on her 18 years leading an independent school and direct training with Brené Brown, Nicole shares how daring leadership principles can strengthen trust, improve culture, and empower both educators and students to “do hard things” together.

1. Why Daring Leadership Matters Now

• Why courage and authenticity are often undervalued in schools.
• How leadership that embraces vulnerability creates healthier communities.
• Why these traits are essential in today’s climate of fatigue and uncertainty.

2. Lessons from the Head of School Experience

• Nicole’s journey from classroom teacher to head of school at age 29.
• How social-emotional growth and academic rigor can be woven together.
• Embedding Brené Brown’s work into school culture—books, trainings, and shared language.

3. Practical Applications in Schools

• Navigating hard conversations with parents, teachers, and donors.
• Supporting students in moments of dysregulation with curiosity and connection.
• Using daring leadership as a framework for decision-making and conflict resolution.

4. The Role of Vulnerability & Curiosity

• Why asking more questions—and making fewer assumptions—builds trust.
• How curiosity strengthens connection, even in disagreement.
• Why daring leadership is not just for heads of school, but for teachers and staff too.

5. Building Resilient Communities

• “We can do hard things”—how one school made it a cultural motto.
• Why repetition and discipline are necessary to sustain authenticity.
• How daring leadership helps schools co-create environments where everyone can thrive.

• Leadership is for everyone. Daring leadership isn’t limited to titles—it’s for teachers, staff, and all members of a school community.
• Connection reduces conflict. Curiosity and authenticity defuse disagreements and strengthen relationships.
• Culture is co-created. Faculty, students, and families all shape the environment—leaders set the tone, but communities build it together.
• Courage is contagious. Modeling vulnerability and authenticity encourages others to do the same.
• Hard things are worth doing. The challenges of today’s educational landscape require leaders who are willing to step forward with courage and intention.

Nicole McDermott: nicolemcdermott.net
Educational Directions: edudirections.com
Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

How is your school practicing authenticity and daring leadership?
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